access all areas — 10. Zilla Fatu [Winter Prompts]
A/N: i was battling between making this either Jey or Zilla inspired…and I decided to risk it lol s/o tiktok for putting me on again yet I’m still learning him lol 🩵
PROMPT IS FROM HERE + HERE & I’m using: 27. confessing a crush when it's snowing. DIALOGUE PROMPTS —“It's just a wish, I know wishes don't come true." // "Who told you that?"
WARNINGS: This is a shorty fluff! absolutely the language! Suggestive themes & Zilla being Zilla? Whatever that means 😉
<- if you’re bored or open to reading something else cute read my previous floppy flop anthology prompt here.
“You calm down yet?” Is the first thing you say to the brooding man, sliding the door shut behind you as you step out onto the deck.
He sucks his teeth in response, not taking his glare from the approaching evening view, elbows resting along the banister, “Don’t come over here wit that mane.”
You laugh, squeezing the collar of your fur jacket tighter around your neck while you took a spot beside him, “Or what? You gonna cuss me out too? Everybody knew what they were doing sending me out here to deal with your ass.”
Zilla rolls his dark eyes up to the sky.
He knows there were plenty of options that could have had the task of talking to him: Jacob who knew Zilla pretty well and always tried to coach him into having a level head but after that shit he just pulled with Solo at his log cabin? That man was ready to toss Zilla out on his ass himself! Then there was Jimmy who usually tried to see everyone’s POV and that he did when it came to Zilla and Solo’s everlasting beef, Jey (who was currently tipsy) no longer had patience for Zilla’s mouth and as much as the twenty-five year old loved to be at functions with Jey, when they got into disagreements it always had the potential to go extremely left (their tempers combined was insane work) between the two however they could always squash it at the end of the day, and even Roman who was just getting the chance to really know the youngest member, was witnessing it all and open to figuring out where Zilla’s head was at—since they were all in their twenties once before.
Ultimately you stepped up (with light pushing from the other ladies, mainly Ava and Jey) to make sure Zilla was alright after he and Solo almost threw hands. It was all going so well, everyone was having a good time until the competitive sides egos came out.
“And how’s that? You not getting me to sit around the campfire and singing songs with that mutha—
“Alright, relax.” You interrupt with your hand held up, “How is it that I’m cool with your own blood and you’re not?”
Zilla muttered, “Maybe that’s part of the problem too.”
You tilt your head to the side, “What?”
“Let’s not act like I didn’t see him tryin’ to push up on you.”
You’re frowning now.
You and Solo been friends long before you met Zilla. At first you didn’t think he was even open getting to know you because you had ties with Sikoa but eventually Zilla pulled his head out of his ass, apologized for being an asshole for awhile, and you two were able to turn over a new leaf. There were no doubts that the both of you heavily got on each other’s nerves—Virgo men—but somehow there was always love there.
“It’s not like that.” You sigh, “Never has been and I don’t know why I have to sound like a damn broken record for you to get it.” You snap, leaning on your own elbow, and pressing another hand into your hip.
He blinks, “Does he know that?”
“I’m not doin’ this with you, Isayah.” You exasperate, “I came out here to check on your well-being, not you focusing on non-existent problems. Especially when you’re still out here entertaining other bitches like a dog in heat.”
It’s Zilla’s turn to furrow his brows.
“I dunno where that’s comin’ from but I’ll bite, say what’s on your mind then, ma.”
Shrugging your shoulders, you peek down at your acrylics as if that was more important, “…I’m just saying you’re using whatever you can find—something as ridiculous as Solo being into me, as an excuse to whoop his ass at any given time, is funny when your phones been going off from your little groupies since you got here.”
“Ah,” Zilla leans back and points, “You keepin’ tabs on me? How sweet.”
“Shut up, ain’t nobody thinking about you.”
Zilla smirks, “I mean…it’s coo if you are.”
“Me when I’m trying to deflect.”
“I’m not.” Zilla laughs a little, “I don’t gotta lie to you. There’s been a few that I’ve been talkin’ to but it’s never gone any further…cause I’m waiting on your ass, surprisingly.”
From the corner of your eye you spot flakes starting to glide down from the sky. The deck suddenly feels warm compared to the frigid air that first greeted you and almost made you want to crawl back inside.
“Huh?” Is all you can get out.
Zilla mocks you, “Huh? You heard me.”
“So…” you kick at the air awkwardly now, “I guess this is the part where I confess I’m feelin’ you too.”
He nods, “I thought that shit was obvious way back when I was hittin’ it right on Halloween with my hands around your throat?”
Instantly you smack his arm, making him laugh and lick his lips. “I didn’t need a refresher, thank you!”
“I dunno I thought your ass might of forgot,” Zilla turns to fully face you now, “I certainly didn’t.”
And there he goes giving you that taunting stare, that could make one with the most fear in their heart, quiver in place.
Reaching a ring finger out to the man, he breaks eye contact for a moment and reaches his own hand out to interlock with yours. It’s instant static but it’s brief because he’s tugging you right into his embrace. You melt into his frame, his arms locking around you just right as you gently sway side to side in the cold evening. Of course one hand that isn’t wrapped around your shoulders, slides down to hold your backside that’s buried beneath your fur jacket—knowing he would much rather get a real feel—you laugh to yourself.
“Can’t help yourself, can you?”
“I mean…you just said you’re down to be mine, no?”
“I don’t know if I said all that.” You pull back to glance down at his lips, a smile playing on your own glossed ones.
He closes one eye pretending to think about it, “You kinda did admitting your truth to me, girl. Don’t act brand new.”
“That’s all you!” You go to shove him with a laugh, that he mirrors, “Actin’ all fool over you know who when he’s just a friend and whomever is in your phone, you need to dead that by the way.”
“Yes ma’am.” He agrees, “Can I get some love now?”
“Are my hugs not enough?”
“Yeah sure, you smell divine and look even better but I’m really trying to see what you taste like.”
Oh?!
“I thought you didn’t forget.”
“Of my other girl, nah.” He shifts his eyes down your frame, making you gasp, ready to smack him again, “Sweeter than any cherry pie I’ve ever eaten.”
“You don’t like cherry pie.”
He shrugs as if it’s obvious, “You’re my exclusive.”
Shaking your head, you’re not sure what exactly you were going to do with this man but you turn to get a better view of the snow that started to come down harder now. Like a young child, you go to the banister to gaze up at the pretty fluffs that demanded to be seen.
You feel the weight of Zilla’s arms lock around you now, which makes you lean back against him, enjoying his warmth—despite the fact that he was only outside in a hoodie—which you didn’t want to hear a thing about when he caught a cold—and the touch of his lips against your neck.
“…Whatchu wish for?” He asks after a moment, noticing that your eyes were closed as soon as you spotted a star that flew through the sky.
If you blinked you might have missed it.
You’ve always been into shooting stars and the galaxies and shit. Zilla could be a yapper himself but he remembers a late night session after your first and only time together, that y’all got into a conversation of the unknown.
Granted you may or may not have been under the influence that Halloween night but those thoughts still occurred even without.
Lightly turning your head against his collarbone, you realized you’ve been caught, “It's just a wish, I know wishes don't come true."
Zilla frowns, “Who told you that?”
“It’s silly.” Your attempt to persuade him to drop it would be ignored.
Zilla scoffs, “It was me wasn’t it? You don’t gotta be shy about it…plus I actually like hearing what’s on your mind if we’re being honest.” He taps at your temple gently.
You can’t help but to beam at him, “Aw, aren’t you cute!”
Zilla rolls his eyes at you slightly squealing, “Don’t start.”
“Want a kiss?”
“Hell yeah…New Years about to come early.” He returns the grin, licking his lips as you spin to wrap one arm over his shoulders, the other goes to lightly scratch at the back of his head just how he liked, foreheads touching, noses brushing against each other, as you breathe each other in just before Zilla makes the move to place his lips right on yours.
He still knew how to make your toes curl just with one kiss.
“I love yo ass.” Zilla admits, once he catches his breath, an ounce of fear shining through his own dark eyes for a moment before he easily masked it.
A smile that reaches your own eyes speaks before you do, “I know.”
Zilla throws his head back in annoyance, “Forreal? This what you on?”
You nod playfully, “Can’t give you too much access can I?”
“Access?” Zilla repeats with a glance from underneath his lashes, “We been passed that, don’t you think, baby?”
Humming you move to rest both hands on his chest, “I would say you’re right and the feeling is mutual but that might get to your head.” You tease.
Zilla rubs at his face, laughing to himself, “Oh aight, bet. Imma get it out of you though, just you wait.”
“I don’t doubt it.” You wink, pulling the sides of his hood forward more as a brisk chill full of snow glided by you two, and then you toss your leg up over his hip.
Zilla doesn’t hesitate to grip your clothed flesh, his gaze darkening as you lightly bite your bottom lip, “Yeah, I think you’re asking for trouble as if you don’t know that I’m about it any time and anywhere. That hot tub cover is calling our names.”
You peek around his frame, leaning a bit to see the covered tub up ahead and that was enough of a hint into Zilla’s mind.
“Ayo! Y’all better be clothed out here!” Jey calls out, peering through his fingers and lets out a sigh of relief, “Zil, your time out is over! Bring your asses back in here, we about to fire up: den of thieves.”
Zilla groans as he says back over his shoulder to his older cousin, “Man, why your drunk ass gotta be so loud for?! Can’t you see we’re busy?”
“Well get un-busy! I’m sure you will find some other time to get nasty at some point while we’re all here…and you’re welcome by the way!” Jey sends the two a grin before leaving the door open, letting you two know that this wasn’t up for debate.
Watching action movies was part of the family gathering, along with a lot of shit talking and over talking that definitely pissed a few off that we’re trying to get into the storyline. You and Solo were part of the few that hated excessive talking so you just hoped the snacks were good.
Placing a lingering kiss on an irritated Zilla, you savored his lips, which turned a scowl into a smile, then you intertwined your fingers, dragging him back into the cabin full of chaos.
A/N: It only makes perfect sense to write something loving for this man. My plan is definitely to see Mufasa during this Xmas season with the family. You already know I had to add some shenanigans to this as well! 🤍
PROMPTS ARE FROM HERE & I’m using: 2. “S'mores are perfect when the marshmallows are burnt.” - "You just can't cook." + 13. neighborhood festive decoration competition becomes dangerously competitive.
WARNINGS: language + a sprinkle of sexual content.
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“S'mores are perfect when the marshmallows are burnt.” You softly exhale as you hold said s’more beneath your fingertips, staring at the treat so lovingly.
Terry gave you a side eye, sitting right beside you on the plushy outdoor sofa that’s set up in the screened in porch out back, “You just can't cook."
Which stops you immediately from biting into the slightly charred gooey dessert, “Okay, that was so nasty and so rude.”
“I mean that in the most respectable way.”
No way did he just try to pull a, “we listen and we don’t judge,” on you?
You tilt your head in confusion, lips pushed out, and a frown situated right between your brows. Maybe you weren’t the best cook and that was mostly in Terry’s department when it came to your shared household but you had no problem assisting and sampling!
Terry reached out to the table across from the couch, picking up the tin that contained the roasted s’mores, which you both participated in making at the pit in the backyard.
“Uh uh, you just said I couldn’t cook so keep your hands to yourself.”
Terry peers over at you with his naturally lined green eyes, chin burrying into his shoulder as he says, “You’re acting as if you made these all on your own. The stars are on the bottom, covered by your burnt ones.”
“They’re charred.” You sat up from your slouched position and stuck your nose up into the air.
“…Which is another term for overcooked.”
“You don’t cook s’mores.”
“You’re right,” Terry finds a s’more that looked the best, one he made, “you roasted and set them on fire.”
“The store didn’t have any more chestnuts to roast!” You argued, “And I’ve just about had enough of your slander on my s’mores. What is this? A holiday bake off?”
Terry scoffed, tossing his long legs up onto the table as he held a s’more of his own, “Not even close. You would be kicked off immediately.”
He grimaced at the black parts of the marshmallow that still remained from the s’more you previously bit out of. Which earned him a nice slap to the chest, and a rumble of laughter from him in return, letting you know that didn’t hurt as much as you intended it to.
Terry loved teasing you on your cooking skills, along with your family, who had no issue calling Terry up instead to see what he would be bringing to all sorts of family functions. It’s not like you didn’t try…you always had the vision but executing was the problem. During this season you were experimenting with soups and there was no better person to try it on than your man.
If you wanted honest opinions, Terry Richmond was your guy.
“…Hold up.”
Blinking you turn to see Terry slowly sit up—truly on some Michael myers type shit but you kept that to yourself—his eyes glaring out into the nightfall.
“What’s the matter?” You asked before popping the rest of the treat into your mouth.
Terry answers, “Look at our neighbors house and tell me what you see.”
Frowning you lean forward as well, looking left to right rather than straight ahead you respond, “…high ass light bills?”
Any other time Terry would have let out a laugh but by his posture, you can tell he was trying to keep his cool. The grunt that escaped his mouth and the air that flared from his nostrils, finally gets you to look at the house that was directly behind your home.
“Oh no he didn’t.” You stood up, watching as the inflatable gingerbread man stood tall and proud, “I said that was the theme we were going for.”
Terry nods, “Uh huh. Safi said he only celebrates kwanza and wasn’t into the whole decor like everybody in this community is.”
Safi just moved in a few months ago and you two were the first to actually go introduce yourselves with a platter of something nice. Just doing neighborly things and it seemed like Safi and Terry were getting along just fine. Safi even stopped into Terry and Mike’s catering business, building some sort of networking relationship at first. They hung out a few times, he invited you two over for dinner…so you weren’t completely strangers.
To put it simply, a heads up would have been nice.
“Looks like he changed his mind.” You crossed your arms, “Either that or he’s fake as fuck.”
Terry sighs, “I should go over and see if he needs any help.”
“Or you can just text him with a picture followed by a question mark?”
Terry gets to his feet now, “Things can get misconstrued through text, baby. I rather stop by.”
It was your turn to hum, “Well don’t take too long…the rain and sleet are supposed to come in again around nine and there’s a present I want you to open under the tree.”
The man dips his head as he starts shoving on his outerwear that he tossed on the other furniture as the indoor porch got a little too warm for him, “Let me guess, that present must be you?”
That knocks some of the annoyance out of your frame as you meet his awaiting emerald (usually peridot) hues in the dim of the attached space, “Maybe…you’ll just have to wait and see.”
He winks as he steps forward, pressing a scratchy kiss to your cheek, “I’ll be back as soon as I can.”
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“…my bad man, I don’t know what you’re getting at.” Safi lightly rubs at his jaw, shifting to lean against his ajar door, “First you stop by unannounced and then you and your lady accuse me of stealing a stupid gingerbread when everyone uses gingerbread decor, it’s Christmas.”
Terry felt his eyebrow twitch, hands clasped in front of him as he felt the wind pick up behind his back, “I apologize for stopping by so late on short notice. I just couldn’t help but to detect a decor piece that I showed you that I knew my lady would like. To my surprise it looks identical. You are aware that the back of our homes face each other…so one of us would see it?”
Safi folds his arms and slowly nods his head, “Sure but it wasn’t intentional.”
“Are you sure?”
“As sure as I am of you pressing me.”
Strike two!
“Okay Safi.” Terry sends him a smile that felt less than jolly, “I see where this is going so I hope you have a nice night and whatever holiday you suddenly decide to celebrate.”
Safi sends a mocking two finger salute, “Everything’s always good on my end, vet. Terry. Say hello to the Mrs. For me?”
Strike three!
You’re lounging right by the tree on a crocheted blanket and in front of the fire, back warming up soothingly as you patiently waited for Terry to get back. Hearing the front door slamming, you sit up a bit on your elbow, ready to get back into your model pose but sit up quickly at the hooded figure.
Who turns out to be Terry who sends you a wicked grin full of teeth, his nose crinkled at the bridge of his nose followed by the dip of his inner brows.
“You didn’t.” You peek at the deflated decor in his hands.
“Uh huh.” Terry drags it towards the indoor porch, “Safi thinks shit is going to be sweet just because it’s the holidays? Naah. We’re going to show him what happens when you move the way he does.”
Clacking your nails together in excitement as you sat cross legged, you nod at your man who tosses the inflatable onto the porch. When he turns back to you, drinking in the image of you in nothing but a red and white pinstriped blouse and thigh high socks.
“That can wait though.” Terry smirks as he starts peeling out of his jacket.
You’re up on your knees while Terry gets down on his, you’re almost chest to chest as he cups your face, his thumbs gently caressing the sides of your cheek bones while he stares deeply into your eyes.
“Glad you made it back to me in one piece, Richmond.”
Terry snorts, “Did you really have any doubts?”
You smirk, “I mostly said a prayer for Safi.”
“Course you did,” Terry laughs before tenderly pressing a kiss to your lips.
You melt into him just like the sleet that hits the windows. Just from that kiss alone, you’re fighting to catch your breath as you flick your eyes up to meet Terry’s which are shifting in hues the longer he stares at you, “…I hope you weren’t too rough on our gingerbread man.”
Terry leans down to place an open mouthed kiss to the side of your neck, feeling your pulse race at its point, “I thought I said our plan to win this competition can wait?”
“I-it can.”
Great, now he had you stuttering!
“Then lay back and keep your eyes on me. If you close them at any point,” He leans in close enough to your ear, making your toes curl already, “You lose.”
And Terry knew just how much you hated that.
So call this a pre-game if you will, head tilted back, fighting to keep your eyes open that the warmth of tears glided down the corner of your eyes, arms down low on your man’s head, alternating against the urge to keep his face closer or push away while Terry got his own serving of festive Bailey’s cream from you.
The snow was the least of your worries tonight…and your worries sure as hell didn’t include Safi’s flip flopping having ass either!
b*tch who stole Christmas — 1. Jimmy Holiday [Winter Prompts]
A/N: It’s only right that I keep on feeding the tag no? In this case, reader is slightly messy and Jimmy’s mom doesn’t like it one bit. Happy first day of December & stay warm if you’re in a place that’s below 40 degrees! 🤍
PROMPTS ARE FROM HERE & I’m using: SITUATIONS — Getting snowed in + DIALOGUE PROMPTS — "There's nothing to do!" // "Oh, really?"
WARNINGS: language, alluding to sexy time with a cut off scene because teenagers ya know! + slight talks of sex, & unbothered reader who is okay not being besties with Ms. Holiday.
Jimmy scoffed with his hands tucked underneath his pits, glaring out the window of the cabin his mom wanted to spend the holiday season in. His temple rested against the cool window as he peeked upwards, watching the chunks of snow plop from the roof and down onto the marshmallow fluff colored ground.
He wasn’t the biggest fan of staying at this cabin anymore (now that his grandfather was gone, although it has been years! it still didn’t feel right without him) that his mom’s father owned. Jimmy wasn’t aware that this would probably be their last time here since Gloria would have to try to fix it up some, make it “nice” enough to sell. She didn’t know when she would break the news and could blame the delay on someone else, yet she was the adult here and would have to bite the bullet at some point. In fact, he wasn’t even a fan of the cold. It just didn’t make sense to be this cold, especially when it took time to warm up the place with the firewood and space heaters that he definitely still had a burn on his leg from last year.
As for his mom? She lived for the winter, you honestly wouldn’t think that but she found it depressing enough just constantly staring out at the dirt, which Jimmy could understand and sure a white Christmas was cool and all but after a day it needed to go.
He believed his mom plotted this, knowing they would be snowed in for days at that. The home was stocked but she still made him pack up the car with extras, which should have been a dead giveaway. Jimmy was just happy that he got to drive his mom’s car up to the cabin.
“There’s nothing to do!” Jimmy grumbled into the quiet of the cabin.
The fire was crackling and Jimmy was left alone with his thoughts as his mom disappeared for a nap—who knows how long ago. Arms locked around his waist, making him quickly glance over his shoulder to peek at a familar face.
“Oh, really?” You say almost purring as Jimmy turns in your arms, “I think i can think of a few things.”
He almost forgot you were here, meeting him and his mom at the cabin much to Gloria’s annoyance. Jimmy didn’t hear the end of that and got a good slap before she greeted you, telling you to help unload the car if you were going to be staying with them. You barely lifted a finger before leaping into Jimmy’s arms.
“I didn’t think you were coming?” He said against your lips.
You laugh, “And miss Christmas with my favorite gift?”
“I knew i was,” he shrugs, a smirk playing on the corner of his mouth followed by a lick of his lips, “but it’s nice to hear.”
Jimmy lets his hands slide dangerously low at your spine as he stared down at you with his sunset eyes, “can you? Does it have something to do with you getting all dressed up?”
Laughing lightly, you knew he would like this dress as soon as you put it on, modeling it in one of the bathrooms while you took a selfie and would unfortunately have to post later once the service decided to act right, you tilt your head to the right as Jimmy presses a kiss to your neck, loving just the way your skin felt against his mouth. He was letting some facial hair grow in along with the hair on his head and the scratch from his chin and tickle from the curtain of his hair felt just right.
“I put this on, just so you can take it off.” You whisper.
His brows rose after letting his eyes trail over the top of the dress that hung off your shoulders. “With my mom here? Are you crazy?”
“I’m a lot of things according to her,” you sigh not the least bit affected—already aware what Ms. Holiday’s issue with you is but if you let the opinion of others run your life, you would be miserable just like most of them, “…I just thought I could help with your boredom is all.”
Your hands trail up his torso to his chest, to lock your arms around his neck. Jimmy leans to peck your shoulder, considering it but definitely tried to be the voice of reason with the devil on his shoulder—or you if one really looked at it but you’re too damn pretty to be referred to as such, if you asked Jimmy.
“…I’m sure there’s some board games we can get into.”
You laugh as you step back from Jimmy’s hold, “I’ve got a game too,” you spun on your heels, already feeling his eyes on your backside, “Couch or bed?”
Jimmy blinks his stare back to your face, not catching your drift in this moment, “We can play anywhere, it dont matter.”
“Exactly.” You state with a curl of your finger and Jimmy catches the look in your eye, which makes him clasp his hands on top of his head and let out a long exhale.
He searched around the cabin, trying to find one of the many clocks in the home. He felt like he was on the court in that moment, trying to keep track of time before making his next move. He weighed out the options and you felt like the very best one, although some would say different, he didn’t care.
Jimmy almost runs up to you, which didn’t take long with his height, as he traps you against the wall, lips heated on yours. He still tastes like caramel from the hot chocolate his mom made earlier that afternoon and his palms slip from the wall and are warm against your hips. You have no problem matching his speed as you trail your hands up his lengthy hair, nails scrapping right against his scalp, knowing that would make the prettiest of sounds fall from his plump lips and into yours.
“Bed, now.” Jimmy manages to pull away from your lips.
Mouths swollen, you slip underneath his arm, attempting to make your way over to the couch, you let out a yelp as Jimmy spins you by the waist before bending to lift you over his shoulder.
“Quiet,” Jimmy shushed you as he carries you down the hallway.
You’re giggling even more as you give his butt a slap, making him suck his teeth.
“Ayo, chill! Ain’t nothing back there for you.”
“I’ll be the judge of that.” You answer, making Jimmy shake his head, he knew what type of time you were on and you’ve taken him to many levels before but he’d like to keep that private—although his friends definitely tried to get Jimmy to share what time was like with you in the locker room.
They were his boys and none of them really had any filter, except maybe Warlance and Leland but it wasn’t anybody’s business. Jimmy was a bit defensive when it came to you since you originally tried to shoot your shot with Nataanii but he wasn’t in the right mindset to fool around or be in a relationship. He ended up putting in a good word for his boy Jimmy instead, who was always curious about you. You were naturally flirtatious and that got you into some trouble and not always the good kind.
Rumors already had people labeling and you got tired of constantly defending yourself against an asshole on the lacrosse team who made up some shit to ruin you. You were just you and those that really knew you, trusted you more than anything. Jimmy knew the truth because you talked about it but you hardly liked being vulnerable. And after that scare with Nataanii? Jimmy made it his mission to really be there for his friends but you made it clear y’all were not friends.
Just two people who liked to keep each other company.
Jimmy’s got that toothy grin on his face, even after you kicked him out of the guest room. He’s seated by the fireplace, watching the fire that still seemed to be burning…when it should have been out by now but he’s too busy in that afterglow to put anything together. Cup of tea in his hand as he watches the flames flicker.
He hears the creaking of the wooden floor, not bothering to glance over his shoulder and assumed it was you as he says, “Maybe you were right, the couch might have been the move.”
“Yeah? Why don’t you move your ass to the table because we need to talk.”
Jimmy sharply inhaled, picking up on the tone of his mother. He takes his time bringing his eyes to meet her darker ones, her arms crossed tightly, brows furrowed, and full lips in a scowl as she glared down at her son. He blinks, spotting you sitting at table in his wool patterned sweater, legs crossed over the other as you rested your chin into the palm of your hand, hair a tangled mess, with a easy smile on your lips as you wink at him.
Slouching down at the table across from you to the point his knees brushed against yours, Jimmy dared a glance at you, who was amused that the both of you got caught. Gloria kept her arms crossed but swayed from one foot to the other agitated or disgusted.
The woman was about to go off on the two teens. Her relationship with her son has been going well now that she was able to get herself together and stay out of trouble yet they often butted heads when it came to you.
“…I can’t believe you—well y/n I can but you Jimmy? Would be so disrespectful!” Gloria’s been going off for a while now, “Do you honestly think I wouldn’t know what you two were up to? I was a teen once too ya know?! I even thought about bursting in there but I wanted to save us all the embarrassment.”
Shrugging you interrupt while Jimmy widens his eyes at you, “I’m far from embarrassed.”
“Excuse me?” Gloria grits, “You should be.”
“Why? Because we like to have sex and you just like everyone else take one look at me and think I’m some sort of hoe without getting to know the first thing about me?” You fire off but keep your tone leveled being used to this, “Whatever happened to sex positivity? I don’t think you know much about it. We’re safe if that’s what you’re so worried about. Wrap it before you tap it and all that! I’m not messing around on your son either.”
Jimmy perked up at that last part only because he knew if you looked at his mother she just might explode, “…for real?”
“Yeah.” You shrug your shoulders as if it wasn’t a big deal. He told you after your third time together that he didn’t like the idea of this being an open relationship—although neither of you established this as that.
You kept your word.
Even slapped a few girls in the bathroom that liked to brag about how they intended to make Jimmy their baby daddy by the end of school year.
Not if you had something to say about it.
“Okay, enough of this!” Gloria slammed her hands down on the table to break up your staring contest, “Doing what you two did is not only disrespectful to me but your elder. Also I’m your mother so what I say goes! You invited her here while this is supposed to be family time and she’s not family.”
“Mom.” Jimmy starts but Gloria gives him the side eye, which makes him roll his eyes.
Gloria turns back to you but you look her right in the eye, “I don’t like you and it’s no secret. You’re not right for my son and as soon as this snow clears up, I want you gone. Got that?”
“Yup, whatever you say, Ms. Gloria.” You sigh not bothering to look back at Jimmy because you expected this happening, “Want a cup of tea?”
Gloria scoffs, “I can make my own…wouldn’t want you coming up with any new ideas to suddenly posion me.”
“Ma, you’re doing too much right now.” Jimmy speaks, not appreciating how she was speaking to you.
He knew this wasn’t his house but it also wasn’t his mother’s. He knew if he would have brought up the idea of you spending Christmas with them instead, she would have immediately shut it down. His mom just didn’t get you like he did and he wasn’t just talking about the bedroom either.
“Am I?” Gloria tilts her head at her son, “I’m looking out for your best interest.”
“Are you?” Jimmy presses, “You think you deserve the mother of the year award? Seems a little bit like control to me. Maybe you need to go on a date or something and butt out what I’ve got going on.”
The room goes sickeningly quiet at that.
This wouldn’t be the first time Gloria and Jimmy went at it and said some hurtful things.
“Okay…Since you suddenly think it’s cool to not respect the woman that gave you life? Why don’t you take your deer ankles for a body with a smart ass mouth attached to your room,” Gloria rounds off, “Before I ring your neck.” She finishes as Jimmy feels his blood run hot while his mother roasted him but not only that she decided to do this in front of you.
You had to give it to Ms. Gloria, she knew how to clapback.
Jimmy rubs at his clenched jaw before standing, “Okay, mom. Thanks for ruining Christmas.”
“It’s not even Christmas yet, quit your moping and go.”
“For how long?” Jimmy mocks from over his shoulder, “Until you’re done being a Scrooge?”
Shaking your head, you’re already filling up what looks like a reindeer mug that was actually made by Jimmy as a kid it seems, which made a small smile appear on your face seeing his chicken scratch script handwriting on the underside of the mug. It was an ugly fucking mug but you knew a younger Jimmy was probably proud to give it to his grandfather.
You had to wipe the smile off your face real quick.
“…as fascinating as this is, Gloria…I must be going. Away from this dreadful energy.” You say after swallowing some clove tea, “Hopefully you two can work it out.”
Gloria snaps her fingers as you try to walk around her, “Not uh. It’s Ms. Gloria to you. You’re not leaving my sight until we have a conversation, so you understand not only me but Jimmy better…so sit.”
You twist your lips around, “You could say please?”
“I’m not going to say it twice.” The look in Ms. Holiday’s eye, the right one specifically, told you not to test her either.
Dramatically sighing you plop down in a chair, crossing one leg over the other, making Gloria yank up a throw blanket to toss over your bare thighs. “I don’t need you catching a cold before you leave.” The mother says, which actually surprises you.
If that was true or not you didn’t push it.
Clasping your hands on the table behind Jimmy’s old mug, you knew this conversation was about to be a serious one. Maybe even a heart to heart (which you didn’t do) but regardless you knew you weren’t making the nice list!
A/N: uh oh, I’m dabbling a little more for this man! Also happy holidays to you all because I honestly doubt I’ll have anything else out before whichever holiday you celebrate. Hope you enjoy this piece and that it brings you comfort and feels? 🤪🤍
PROMPTS ARE FROM HERE & I’m using: SITUATIONS — My flight was cancelled and I went home to find my ex cheating on me, so now I'm at this pub.
WARNINGS: Language, break ups, reference to the netflix film, “Malcolm & Marie,” choosing to deal with your emotions at a later time, & strangers to friends trope?
“Just say the word sis and I’ll slash all three of his tires, kick out the window shield, and leave multiple bad reviews of him as a screenwriter,” your best friend repeats over the phone while you use your elbow to push the swivel doors.
Rolling your bag into the lobby you close your eyes and let out a deep breath, “As much as I appreciate you always sitting on go, Malcolm isn’t worth it and I honestly don’t feel like riding around much more tonight, especially to bail you out.”
“Alright girl…I just wish you wouldn’t be alone on Christmas because of his dumbass.”
Flights were cancelled, “until further notice,” and you accepted that defeat more than anything.
“I won’t be.” You answer as you spy security keeping watch of the entrance to the casino.
The Medallion, the joint hotel and casino was a random spot you decided to stop at after that treacherous revelation you received. You had your own home in Miami, whereas your boyfriend of three years, screenwriter and producer Malcolm Elliot—who had his own home back in LA—thought the greatest gift to give you three days before Christmas, was to have his ex-girlfriend up in your house and bed.
The pulsing anger that dripped from the center of your forehead down to your entire being was tough to vocally describe. You were more angry than hurt because why would he play in your face like that? Putting in all this time just for him to decide to go back to the one relationship that was full of disagreements and doubts, just based off what he told you that is. Ultimately you learned that Malcolm Elliot was not the man or enough for you.
And that’s on Toni Braxton!
Closing your eyes, you took another moment to collect yourself before stepping forward, heels clacking against the polished floor, and bag rolling beside you. The process getting into the casino was easy, it was going on 3am so you understood the slow pace and lack of others as you made your way through the vibrant lights and empty seats.
“What can I get you?”
Snapping out of your daze, you turn your head to the left, response getting caught in your throat for a second as you got a good look of the handsome man behind the bar. He was dressed in a pinstriped tux with a whole tie (that didn’t match) and his dark shiny hair neatly brushed back.
There’s amusement in his eyes as he pushes off the counter, tucking the rag he was just wiping the bar with down below, “Or do you need a few more minutes alone burning a hole into my shelf?”
You scoff, resting your cheek into your balled up knuckles, “Is it that obvious I’m pissed off?”
He shrugs, “It’s not that hard for me to tell…interacting with people and analyzing them is part of the job.”
“Is that so…Mr…?”
He smiles at you and it almost makes your breathing hitch as he takes his time walking over to hold his hand out, “Just call me Joe.”
“Okay, just joe. I’m really a martini kinda girl so whatever you have left that won’t make me pick a fight with one of your machines would be nice.” You place your hand in his, which is actually warm and soft against yours as he gives your hand a firm squeeze.
Joe dips his head as he moves to get to work, “You got it.”
The phone that’s face down on the counter is buzzing madly that the side eye you’re giving it, makes Joe peek at your expression from over his shoulder. “I’m guessing who ever is on the other line, fucked up big time? I also get the impression you hardly ignore a phone call on purpose…depending on who the person is.”
Snatching the phone up, you roll your eyes as you quickly go to shut it off and toss it into the tote bag that seated right on top of your hard suitcase. “you’ve got that right, Joseph! A no good sorry excuse for a man is who’s on the other line. How do you cheat on someone a few days before Christmas? And not just with anyone, a ex who’s also an addict that you put on blast in one of your films?”
The pulsating ache was starting to hit harder now that you had to massage it some. Rolling your shoulders a bit, you sat up straight, trying to get rid of some of the tension. Joe sends a pretty martini your way, which you latch onto.
“I guarantee he’s not as great as he thinks he is…especially if he thinks it’s okay to be disrespectful by cheating and on someone like you.”
“You don’t know me, Joe.”
“Yet…but if you stay here until sunrise, I’m sure you’ll confirm my assumptions for me.”
Waggling your finger, you say with slits in your eyes after tossing back the drink, “I know you’re not trying to get me to partake in getting under to get over, are you Joseph? If so I might just have to turn into a Karen and request to speak to the manager.”
“You’re looking at both the manager and owner.” He states with ease.
“Oop, okay big boss!” You laugh while snapping your fingers, “Just shut me on up.”
“Nah, of course not. We’re just getting started.” The intensity in his eyes is enough to make the hairs on the back of your neck stand up, so you just simply roll your eyes, a smile playing on the corner of your lips.
Joe flicks his eyes from your lips back to your eyes, “See…that’s all I want to see tonight. A beautiful smile on an even more stunning woman.”
“Flattery will get you everywhere, Mr. Good lookin’ business man.” You cross a leg over the other, “I’ll take another, please.”
Joe nods as he holds up some fingers, “Your limit will be three, so two more.”
You huff, “I didn’t come here to be bossed around but…it’s fine. I’ve got shrooms in my bag.”
The man frowns, “And you were getting on a flight with those?”
“Of course not!” You shake your head, “I only have enough to make me enjoy the flight.”
Joe wasn’t sure how accurate that was since most people needed someone they trusted to keep them grounded but all he responds with is, “…You are something else.”
“It’s Christmas!” You argue.
The man mutters, “Sounds like an excuse to me.”
“I can be your sugar plum fairy on the dance floor.” You suddenly say, “So you can feel the spirit.”
“…if slow dancing is truly what you want, I’m happy to oblige.” Joe shrugs before continuing on, “You don’t need liquid courage or shrooms to have a good time with me though.”
“You talk a good game…you do this with all your pretty customers?” You stare at him from underneath your eyelashes.
“Nah…I’m actually rarely down here at this hour but there’s a reason I’m here for the dusk shift.” He hands you another and leans over to whisper, “Must have been for me to meet something good.”
“There you go with your assumptions.” You sigh bringing the rim of the cocktail to your lips, “Alright, just call me Joe. Why are you lonesome during the holidays? There’s no chance there’s not someone at home waiting for you?”
He grins at you, lightly caressing at his facial hair, “Are you fishing?”
“Not at all. It’s too cold.” You easily respond, making Joe blink at you, while you hold his stare before slipping him a wink, “C’mon, I’ll give you a synopsis of my shit? I was supposed to be on a flight to visit my family for the holidays, flight got cancelled, went back to my home, just to find my shitty boyfriend who’s in the film industry, entertaining his ex girlfriend, Marie. Sounds like a cheesy sitcom doesn’t it? Malcolm and Marie! Yet I’m the one looking stupid! Those bitches.”
You finish the rest of the drink and slam it back on the counter.
“You’re not stupid.” Joe debates, “No one expects to be cheated on. You just expect someone to love you in return and there’s nothing wrong with that. It’s his lost, remember that.”
“Aren’t you sweet but I’m starting to realize maybe I wasn’t in love with him,” you rest your elbows on the counter with a deep sigh before wiggling one finger at him, “But we’re doing no deflecting this morning! We’re basically friends at this point, blabbering at almost four in the morning.”
Joe shrugs with his bottom lip pushed out, “If you say so.”
“Heart to heart now and then we dance our sorrows away?”
Joe fires back with a frown, “Who says I’m sad?”
“You’re here at your place of business all by yourself during the holidays.” You state, “While you should be at home, tucked in bed with a loved one.”
Joe exhaled through his nose, “I got hit with an ultimatum to get married by a certain time and I don’t do well with others planning out shit for me. So…she left, decided to get in a relationship with someone we went to college with, and took the damn dog too.”
“Booo! Not the dog! And here I thought you were going to say she got struck by a car and left for dead or something.” You ramble.
Joe furrowed his brows, “Things don’t always have to be tragic.”
“I hear it builds character.”
Joe felt his eye twitch, “You want me to be the villain?”
“Something tells me you’ve already been through that,” you tilt your head to the side staring at the mysterious man who only gave some details here and there as this part of the world sleeps, “But I think I like talking to this guy instead.”
Joe hums, getting lost in thought but chose not stay much on that. You take this time to look around the empty casino before spinning back around to meet the stranger’s eyes, “Let’s make each other’s wishes come true?”
“Meaning?”
“We dance until sunrise.”
Joe grumbled as he glanced up at the ceiling, “You and this dancing.”
“Don’t tell me you have two left feet?”
“What?” Joe scowls, “I can do a little something.”
“Meet me on the dance floor then.”
Joe asserts, “It’s a casino not the club.”
“Aw, those are probably just closing now.” You’re pouting and it’s honestly the cutest thing the man has ever seen.
“Good, you don’t need to be in there.” Joe states as if it’s a fact, but he can only imagine how you’re in the club and that’s most likely a hand full.
You’re confused, “Where do I need to be?”
“Wherever you want to be.”
“You were supposed to sing Donell jones in that moment and you flopped.”
“…You always this much of a yapper in the mornings?” Joe crossed his arms.
“I maybe a morning person—or night owl? That going to be a problem for you bestie?”
Joe winced, “As long as you stop calling me bestie.”
“Only special people gain that title so you should be honored.” You hop off the stool, stumbling a little bit but catch yourself on the counter as you pick up on a sigh from the man behind you, “All part of my performance, Joseph. Tens across the boards! Now get over here.”
“You’re kinda bossy to someone who can escort you out.”
Spinning with your hair flicking behind you, it’s your turn to turn up the heat, “You’d miss me if you did.”
Joe pretends to think about it, humming but eventually makes his way over to you. You take your time taking in his appearance up close, “Did you ever play football?”
“Yeah…a little.”
“I know a baller when I see one.” You snap your fingers again, “Okay…so tell me…favorite Christmas song of all time?”
“Here’s a secret…” He’s leaning towards you again, “I hate Christmas.”
Gasping you latch onto your fur covered chest and almost choke on your saliva, making the man reach out towards you but you fan him away as you wheeze, “…What’re you some sort of krampus?”
He scrunches up his lips, “Do I look like some sort of half goat, half demon to you?”
“Ask me once the shrooms kick in.” You sass as you walk by him, making Joe pinch the space in between his brows.
When did you even?
“I’m going to assume that it’s because the ex broke up with you on Christmas?” You announce over your shoulder.
Joe slowly follows behind you, hands clasped behind his back as you walk through the aisles of slot machines looking for the perfect spot, “No. She actually did that around my birthday.”
“…I can fight her if you want?”
A rumble of laughter builds in his chest, “Appreciate that but everything isn’t so one sided.”
“Oh?”
“Yeah.”
You left space open for the man to elaborate but he doesn’t so you sigh holding out your hands, “Hand in mine, babe. Looks like I’m not going to be the nutcracker tonight—you’re the nut by the way—so hold on to me and all your troubles will be miles away.”
He stares at your hand before cautiously taking yours in his, carefully he places his hand on your waist that buried beneath the warmth of the coat you have on as he predicts, “Have yourself a merry little Christmas?”
“You got it.” You sniff as you step closer and get a whiff of how good Joe smells: warm, woody, and slightly floral yet sweet, “That one makes me cry every time.”
“Hey now,” Joe moves to snake his arm around your waist as if to steady you if your knees so happened to get weak again, “There’s no need for that when you’ve got an Angel right in front of you.”
You snort out some laughter going to rest your head on Joe’s chest, which catches him off guard but he keeps on swaying.
“…You still believe in Christmas after what that Malcolm asshole did?”
You find comfort in Joe’s chest while keeping the tune of your favorite song in your head, “‘Course. Christmas is about a lot of things but just because someone did me wrong doesn’t mean all the love that I still have should go to waste, ya know? So shut up and feel my love, stranger turned bestie.”
It’s joe turns to roll his eyes but he takes in your words. You’re the woman that walked into his place of business, freshly cheated on, and ready to shoot laser eyes into the bottles that sat on the shelf, yet as time went on with a little liquor on your side and “magic,” Joe felt like just maybe your presence alone was supposed to be here.
To remind him that the holidays didn’t have to be so dreadful like they’ve been the past few years.
Slow dancing together with no one in the room was so intimate, so personal, and it wasn’t something Joe would be open to. There’s plenty of others who may or may not have been under the influence who have tried but he always had his business face on walking through. He’s been closed off for a while now and here he was with you, someone that he didn’t know who’s just been thrown for a loop, who just wanted to have a kind moment that didn’t feel so shitty.
Joe started to feel like he should be glad that he could provide that for you, without truly knowing you.
Maybe he did.
When the alarm goes off, signaling that it was time for him to shut down the casino, it brings you two out of your own little world. He’s clearing his throat, watching as you slowly lift your head from his chest. He wants to caress your face but feels like that might be too much, so he just gives your hand that he’s still holding onto, a gentle squeeze before stepping back to close out.
You’re back on the stool, room slightly spinning in various colors as you smile with your chin tucked on your fingers.
“Ive got to count the cash in the back but you’re welcome to stay here if you want…as long as you don’t fall asleep on me.” Joe’s got the register drawer in his hands as he glances at you.
You’re swaying but respond, “I’m far from tired…I actually want ramen.”
He laughs, “fortunately for you, I know a guy. If you want to stick around? We can head out to the lounge to enjoy it together?”
“I’d like that, Joseph.”
It’s a breath taking smile he sends your way before leaving you to enjoy your trip briefly. You’re not sure how long he’s gone until his hand touches the back of your bare neck that your Bob doesn’t fully cover. Together you take your things, walking towards the lobby as Joe locks up the casino doors before turning back to you. He leads the way to the lounge thats tucked to the right of the casino by the shut down escalators, leaving you again but not without telling his security, Heyman, to watch over you, while he went to retrieve the ramen you mentioned.
Once he returns, he doesn’t hesitate sitting beside you. He has all various types of the dish that has you smiling even harder now.
“Forgot to ask which you prefer so I figured why not get all from my guy? He’s the best of the best.” Joe shrugs, followed by a sheepish smile at the spread on the table.
Picking up a container, you sit back on the couch, ready to dig in. “Looks like we made it.”
“Huh?” Joe questions after picking a container himself, slightly glancing at you as he sits back against the couch as well.
You softly smile as you lift your chin in the direction you were staring out at, “To sunrise.”
“Oh, yeah. Looks like we did.” Joe replies, staring out at the glow of sun that’s ready to beam out from the dark navy skies.
Before you sip at the broth you say, “I’m going to rest my head on your shoulder now.”
“Go ahead, make yourself comfortable.”
You already did and this man didn’t even recognize the love he gives.
no more streetivities — 8. Dante Torres [Winter Prompts]
A/N: I see some of y’all are coming around more with my Dante content and I’m so appreciative! January is coming quick and I miss my man, so here’s something light hearted because I know we need more of that compared to the constant angst I put out lol. A short one but hopefully a good fluffy one 🤍
PROMPTS ARE FROM HERE & I’m using: 7. building a gingerbread house together + 20. being caught standing under the mistletoe.
⋆❅*𖢔𐂂꙳ ⋆❅*𖢔𐂂꙳ ⋆❅*𖢔𐂂꙳ ⋆❅*𖢔𐂂꙳ ⋆❅*𖢔𐂂꙳ ⋆❅*𖢔
Kim and Adam’s house reeks of cinnamon along with all things sweet. It was the first thing you noticed as soon as you entered the house and Adam was full of smirks at the expression on your face, while he gave his fiancée a knowing look after taking your red jacket.
“Is it really too much?” Kim questioned, “Oh shoot, don’t tell me you’re allergic?”
You could tell that Kim put a lot of work into this Christmas gathering, not only did the aroma smack each guest in the face but based off the overload of decorations inside the house, you wouldn’t think they were a overly festive couple just based on the exterior of her shared home with Adam. That completely changed your view as soon as the seasoning tickled the back of your throat.
After a while you got used to it, greeting the rest of the team that already made themselves comfortable.
“Yeah, I bet you thought I wouldn’t be here on time and look at you, the last to show up.” Kevin teases as he gives you a side hug followed by a grin, making you roll your eyes.
Kiana and Dante are chatting while you say hello to Voight, who looks as if he’s ready to go ghost with the drink in his hand and the mountain of thoughts that constantly occupy his mind. The conversation is short as to be expected before you meet Dante’s sparkling hues as he nods along to what Kiana is saying. The braided woman doesn’t take long to figure out where his attention is altering and glances over her shoulder, waving you over.
The energy between you two provided just enough warmth against Chicago’s brutual winter and although you two have been playing it cool, the team has other motives tonight.
“Each team has thirty minutes,” Kim starts with a timer and side eyes you as you cup your mouth ready to yell out the meme, “Don’t start.” She interjects as you stomp your feet playfully, earning snickers from both Adam and Kevin before she carries on, “To create the perfect gingerbread house. Voight will be the judge.”
The man sits comfortably in a chair tucked in the dining area against the wall, half glass of eggnog left, ankles crossed over the other as he keeps his usual pinched stare trained on each member. “It better be the best work I’ve seen out of you yet, or else.”
“Damn, I didn’t know this was a bullying session.” Kiana mutters to Kevin who simply shrugs at his partner.
Kim tosses the stop watch at Voight before taking her spot beside Adam, her wide eyes move back to Voight, sending him a dip of her head for him to announce when it was time to go, and when he did, the unit had no problem getting right to work.
Working with Dante didn’t necessarily feel like hard work. Somehow the both of you always ended up in sync and although he definitely had his inner demons, he never wanted to dump anything on you. He put together the foundation of the home, keeping the cookies in place while you used the frosting to make sure it stayed. The both of you had visions of what a home should look like, executing each detail as best as you could together with the limited time. Of course there was side smack talk from Atwater and Ruzek but the both of you were too in your zone to get distracted.
“Times up! Step back.”
Voight is on his feet, slowly analyzing the three houses as he walks back and forth. He stops back at the beginning where you and Dante are standing side by side. The older man leans forward, his dark eyes flicking upwards after a few moments.
“Torres, you’ve got frosting on your nose.”
Adam laughs, “Looks like we’re dealing with toddlers here, huh, Kim?”
She elbows him but it’s evident that she’s humored as she peeks up at her fiancé.
Voight chooses to ignore him while Dante quickly wipes the frosting from the tip of his nose with the back of his hand. He quickly looks at you, who’s already staring at him but you give him the okay with your fingers, sending him a fast smile before going stone face once more.
Voight says your last name next to get your attention, “…you call this a gingerbread house?”
Your head tilts to the side, “Sarge? What’s wrong with it?”
He scoffs, “I can still see the brown of the house! The only effort is the snow covered roof top.”
Dante felt his mouth twitch in iritation. He didn’t agree with Voight’s statement either but before he can say anything you’re responding.
“Actually I think the best gingerbread houses are simple,” you begin, “We don’t need a house completely covered in frosting like our opponents to our right. We just used it as the base and as you mentioned for the roof of the home. We also used powdered sugar to give a realistic effect of snow instead of it being toddler-like, peppermints for the top of the roof, a few gumdrops here and there, I bet you even missed the little Star anise that works as our wreath in one of the windows. We were going for a ceramic gingerbread house but someone stole the piping bag.” You conclude as Dante sent a playful glare to Kim who quickly turned her head back to face the front, “It’s all about the little details, as you should know Sarge.”
Voight holds your stare but of course you don’t budge. He sharply breathes throughout his nostrils, before peering down at the house and finally barks his score, “6.5!”
“Ouch!” Adam comments.
Kevin also tossed in around the jellybean he’s chewing on, “Better luck next time.”
Dante scoffed, “He hasn’t given his score for you guys yet so don’t get too cocky.”
“Ooooh,” Kiana and Kim both chorus while you lightly bumped Dante’s shoulder.
His expression immediately softened as you already appeared relaxed, arm looping with his as Voight continued his intimidation analyzing tactic. The man critiqued everyone’s work, which brought up time limit arguments and denial.
Ultimately Kim and Adam won the challenge.
“That’s some bullshit right there.” Kevin shook his head.
Kiana argued, “They cheated. I agree with y/n, Burgess had an advantage with the piping bag.”
Kim shakes her head, “I made it fair by everyone getting one extra tool to help them out. Dante and y/n had the powdered sugar along with the sifter, and you two had extra various candy to create…whatever that is.”
Adam laughs while Kevin sucks his teeth.
“That’s why your reindeer outside your gingerbread fence looks like a dog on bath salts.” He taunts as he makes his way towards the kitchen.
Kim yells highly offended, “Hey!”
Adam reached out to squeeze Kim’s shoulder in comfort before he says at the man’s back, “Whatever man, help me set the table.”
Which led to everyone pitching in, bringing the food to rest on the decorative table before taking whatever seat felt best. It was full of laughter and easy chatter, where the outside world didn’t matter for a few hours—which was rare with a team like this. The music is what really had everyone going, a tactic that got everyone on their feet instead of falling asleep, a method that Adam used so he wouldn’t be stuck bringing anybody home.
Your attempts to get Dante on the floor instead of holding up the wall was a challenge. He preferred to just watch you dance around with Kim and Kiana (who Dante was shocked to see break out into the Roger rabbit and aunt Viv dance), your head thrown back in laughter as you teamed up with Kiana to teach a slightly embarrassed Kim a thing or two.
“Stop drooling and do something.” Kevin coughs on his way by.
Dante scowls at his team member turned friend, “I’m not!”
Adam took the hint to put the plan in motion, cutting in as someone (Kevin) managed to change the upbeat Christmas music to something more mellow. Kiana decided to sit this one out, holding her hands out to guide Adam towards the brunette. The man pulls Kim to his frame so they could slow dance in the middle of the living room floor. However once he spins Kim around, he purposely bumps you out the way by the hip towards Dante.
Who quickly moves to latch onto you before you fall to the floor. It was definitely a classic rom-com moment, where you could have easily fell right on your ass but you certainly didn’t fit into the damsel in distress trope.
Being in Dante’s arms again, always felt right as you relaxed against his chest. There were times where you were very open about your advances and then there were times where you discussed your dating life when Voight wasn’t around. Dante would pretend not to be listening majority of the time, burrying his face into his computer but everyone else noticed, how rough he tended to be on the mouse and keyboard when you did speak on it.
There were a couple of more straws that broke such as: some guy sending you roses mixed with lavender, when you openly said you hated roses and lavender gave you the worse headaches—Plus Dante already knew you were a peony lover, and when another guy showed up during your late shift to bring you home, made Dante’s stomach burn.
A grin appeared on your lips as you meet Dante’s green eyes before you spotted another spec of green over your heads. That grin soon turned to a smirk before you puckered out your lips, making Dante move his eyes down to your mouth in slight confusion.
“Don’t leave me or the mistletoe waiting, Torres.” You reveal.
Dante scoffs after looking up at the greenery that’s hanging from the wall. He’s ready to set his glare ablaze at the rest of the team but you’re impatient as you reach up to pinch his jaw and bring his lips down on yours. Instantly Dante sighs against your lips and the taste of you while you can’t keep the smile off your face. Which widens more after everyone whistles and claps at the scene unfolding before them.
Dante rolls his eyes as he breaks away from your mouth pointing at the team, “You guys are annoying.”
“Yeah but you love us.” Kim shrugs, arms still locked around Adam’s neck while staring at you two adoringly.
Kevin adds, “And you can thank us.”
“For?” Dante pressed.
Kiana sighs, “You can’t be this dense, Torres.”
He frowns as he turns back to you, “Are you getting any of this?”
You laugh as you peck his lips once more before spinning to face Dante. “They’re basically saying you’re getting me off the streets…not that it was really that great in the first place.”
“Oh…” Dante slowly nods, “So…we go together now?”
Playfully tapping your chin you answer, “Ask me after new years.”
“New years?!” Dante pokes his neck out in confusion as you walk away from him laughing, taking Voight’s now vacant spot.
Everyone else is full of groans now, although most can tell you’re joking, Dante doesn’t hesistate to sit right beside you, face full of confusion…or maybe it was worry?
Although you liked to make him sweat, you always knew at some point it would be you and Dante.
A/N: My newer pieces for bode don’t get as much attention so I’m writing this quickly in the sense of HC (notes I guess? my form!) s/o to the snow storm for giving me the motivation to write this 🩵
WARNINGS: childhood fears, freak accidents, and slight language?
PROMPTS ARE FROM HERE & I’m using: ACTIVITIES — Skiing & Taking pictures in the snow + SITUATIONS — Holidays in the hospital.
Here is where you should have listened to your instincts and not have let your guard down.
Being back at these slopes was a triggering manner and everyone would have understood if you backed out but you didn’t want to break tradition.
You lost your (adopted) older sibling up on these slopes that the both of you snuck into during a brewing storm.
It wasn’t your idea and you were reluctant but your sibling—who was always the daredevil—convinced you that they knew these slopes well (they were dating the kid of the owner) and always did this once the colder weather came in.
They were so sure that everything would be fun and fine, despite the fact that a storm was coming in.
You told them they should have called their friends to hang out with instead, since you were not the biggest fan of snow and wasn’t the most athletic like your sibling but they chose spending their quality time with you that evening.
They were a senior, you were a sophomore and what was supposed to be, just kids being kids ultimately led to your siblings’ tragic passing.
It didn’t bother you as much until you all pulled up to the slopes and you got a good look at it. That’s when yours knees started to buckle, stomach cramped, palms sweaty beneath your thick gloves, and your chest felt tight.
“Hey, you okay?” Bode questions after his mom nudged her head in your direction, you were slowly pacing from the opposite side of the car, doing breathing exercises while the Leone family carried a conversation.
A humorless laugh slipped through your lips, “Never better, can’t you tell?”
Although you attempted to model out your all white fit in a funny manner, Bode saw right through it as he watched your elbow shake while you had your hand on your hip, with a weak pose.
He immediately grips your forearms, “You know there’s no pressure right? We’re just here to have fun and we’ll take it easy but if it’s too much…you let me know and we can get into something more chill instead.”
You simply smile, knowing this was a repeat of last night’s conversation as you lay in bed together, with Bode trying to see where your head was at. There was no way you were going to be the only party pooper and stay back at the cabin…alone.
Especially since you and Mrs. Sharon forced everyone to watch The Bodyguard last night and that scene with Niki always gave you nightmares.
You were sensitive to things like that, which is why you could never go into the medical field, although there was a time where you wanted to major in it—it ultimately did not work out in the case of your mental.
Snow tubing became more of your snow activity as you found the courage to take pictures with your new camera (that Bode surprised you with on Christmas! You hated that he spent this kind of money on you when he was just building his income back but he didn’t want to hear your concerns, he just wanted to see you smile) of Eve and Jake on their snowboards on the opposite route before you scrambled to stabilize yourself on the slope as it got bumpy towards the middle.
Everyone took turns keeping you company on the tubes but ofc the real action was with the skis and snowboards. Something you once liked participating in although you weren’t the best, you once enjoyed the freeing feeling of being on those slopes.
After browsing the photos you managed to get of Mrs. And Mr. Leone, Eve, Jake, and Bode, just examining their faces through the pictures reminded you of the feeling the slopes used to bring back when you were a child and back when your sibling was still alive.
That photo of the both of you cheesing at the end of the slopes, arms tossed over each others shoulders, that your adopted father snapped of you still sat in the entry way of your family’s home. They only came out to the slopes once a year to honor your sibling but it was no longer a place where they spent the winter anymore either.
“Wait up, I’m coming this time.” You say as the remaining faces turn to you at the lift.
Sharon and Vince were already up on the lift unaware of this decision, while Eve and Jake shared a glance and Bode waved them on to go ahead.
He waited for you as you locked up your camera and he was patient as he helped you into your skis. Exhaling your eyes meet the lift where a few were waiting in line for the next.
“Are you sure?”
“I have to,” you state meeting Bode’s sparkling eyes, “Not just for them but for me too. I can’t keep living in fear over what was lost.”
Bode gives you a slow grin, “There’s my girl. And you know I’m right there with you…if you need me that is.”
“Of course I do. I wouldn’t want anybody else beside me.”
Bode smirks, “Aw.”
“Shut up and help me.” You roll your eyes as Bode gently squeezes the back of your neck, “I haven’t been on these in ages.”
Bode laughs a little as he takes your hand, “Yes, ma’am.”
And just like that you’re above the slopes together, with you squeezing the life out of Bode’s knee but he squeezes yours back, timing it all for when it was time to let go.
In more ways than one.
Once you regain your balance on the snow, which you had to do pretty fast, you’re gliding down the slopes and although Bode can definitely pass you like you know he’s itching to, he keeps pace with you just like he promised.
It’s when there’s tears in your eyes and a carefree laugh that escapes your lips, that you realize that you found your courage again.
Bode loves to see it, encouraging you and relishing in the joy that’s on your face. It’s happy tears although you still miss your sibling, terribly, you knew this was something they always loved to do. Their bucket list was to conquer all the winter sports and you honestly believed that one day they truly would.
That joy becomes short lived as you bring your glance back over to your boyfriend, watching in horror as he stumbles over a uneven terrain, his attempts to recover from that don’t go unnoticed as he soon slips over some undercover patch of ice that sends him failing around, unable to keep his balance.
The first roll and impact, you can hear something crunch along with a crack and it isn’t the skiis. Bode keeps on tumbling and you can feel your heart struggling to beat.
Your screams are as loud as ever, catching other skiers attention and drawing the attention of his parents and your shared friends at the bottom of slope.
You’re spooked for a few seconds but bring yourself out of it as other skiers race to help.
“Bode!” You’re on your knees as you scoop his head into your arms, reminiscent to when you held your sibling’s broken body in your lap as the blizzard planned to bury you both.
He’s sweating after he tossed his insulated face mask to the side in an angry manner but he puts on a grimace of a smile as he takes in your tear stained face, “I’m alright. I—
“Don’t you dare say you promise to me right now!”
Emergency services manage to arrive about a minute later before the rest show up to strap bode in before assessing his injury.
Let’s just say the amount of blood and bone was not for the weak!
“Don’t go blamin’ yourself alright,” Jake says to you as you all stood at the car, “Bode’s strong and he wanted to be there with you when you were ready.”
Jake tried to provide you comfort before climbing into the driver’s seat but it was as if he hadn’t spoken.
Vince is in the passenger side, stressed but received the look Jake sent him, knowing that he would have to step in once you all arrived to the hospital.
The drive was certainly quiet enough compared to the initial ride up here and Eve was just happy enough to gain some feeling back in her hand once you let go.
Sharon didn’t even give the option to let you ride with Bode, which was another reason why you felt like it was your fault but she’s immediately apologetic once she gets a good look at you in the waiting room, embracing you and also taking Bode’s words into account on the ambulance ride.
“Mom, I don’t want her taking everything to heart. She’s just as scared as you, maybe even more and we got to make that right.”
Sharon’s never seen Bode love as hard as he did when he’s with you and the glint in his eye and the reassurance he had more for you than himself said enough.
“I could have responded better back there, gave the option on who should have rode with Bode here.”
You’re understanding, already knowing what the Leone family lost before as well.
“I’ll never hold that against you,” you say in Sharon’s arms, “It was probably best anyway…considering I almost upchucked as soon as the ambulance doors closed.”
“Oh yeah,” Sharon nods, “Still don’t have the best stomach huh?”
“Not in the slightest but I don’t know if I would have been able to keep it together enough for Bode so…no hard feelings.”
“Of course not, honey!”
Then you’re all in the hospital room where they’re just keeping Bode comfortable after running some tests and x-rays until the next orthopedic surgeon is available.
“Damn, Bode! I never thought I’d see the day where you would look like shit, dude.” Eve comments, earning a nudge from Jake and a glare from Sharon while Vince just shakes his head.
Bode scoffs, “Yeah, thanks Eve. Love you too.”
You’re right beside him but you won’t touch him, afraid that you’ll make it worse. Your eyes are lingering over his bandaged and covered leg and you can’t get the image out of your head.
“Hey, I’m going to be fine.”
“You don’t know that yet.” You whisper, “you’re all clammy and probably running a fever. Which I feel like…isn’t good sign.”
“That’s just my body trying to recover.” Bode shrugs although Sharon and Vince both share that knowing parent glance.
Vince leaves the room while Sharon tries not to interfere.
Bode can see that you’re not convinced and holds out a hand, “Holding your hand always makes me feel better, though.”
You scoff, “Uh uh, I’m keeping my hands to myself.”
“Please.”
At least he wasn’t too proud to beg!
You sigh, quickly slipping your hand into Bode’s clammy yet warm hand.
He gives your hand a squeeze and lets out a sigh himself as he shifts slightly uncomfortable on the bed before croaking out, “Ah, that’s better!”
Shaking your head at him, you can’t help but to brush his now curling hair back and press a quick kiss to his forehead.
It’s not long after that, the doctor comes back into the room with Mr. Leone right behind him.
He shows the x-rays up on the wall, informing that Bode experienced an open fracture and he’s definitely at risk for infection, which doesn’t settle the feeling in your chest or stomach. It’s determined that he’ll need surgery and you don’t hesitate to let them know that Bode doesn’t look the best, that he feels feverish.
The doctor takes his temperature again and checks his notes to see that his temperature has increased significantly since he got here, which never feels like a good sign.
It’s when he checks on the fracture that you all see that there’s significant swelling and it’s warm to the doctor’s touch. Immediately he’s calling on the nurses and once they arrive he tells them surgery cannot wait another hour or more. He wants to take care of it right away.
The nurses are quick at prepping and the doctor is talking in hushed tones outside the room with Sharon and Vince.
“Why don’t you take a picture?” Bode suggests now with a cap covering his hair.
Eve shakes her head and mutters to the friends, “Yeah man’s lost his mind for sure.”
Jake shrugs his shoulders, knowing what Bode is getting at as your eyes are wide with fear again.
“Are you insane?” You hiss at the foot of his bed now as the nurses work, “Sorry… it’s probably the fever rotting your brain.”
“Ouch.” Jake laughs as he stands beside you, already holding your camera for you.
Bode echoes a laugh, “I’ll take your snark anyday, baby. I mean a picture before I get rolled away into surgery is a badass story I’d love to tell our kids one day…Plus I’ll look much more cooler now than when I’m in a stupid cast.”
Your breathing hitches before you feel your own body fill with warmth. Although you and Bode took forever to get here, being an official couple, and you’ve known each other since you were kids yourselves…this was the first time kids were brought up in your relationship.
You decide with a warning in your eyes, “…Fine but just one.”
“That’s all I need,” Bode jokes while Eve groans and you match her annoyance with a roll of your eyes.
With shaky hands you take the camera from Jake. He gives your shoulders a squeeze before stepping out of the way to give you space.
Bringing the lens up to your eye, you close the other one, zooming into one focal view. Bode looks pale, forehead glimmering with sweat, body slumped, yet there’s crinkles by the corner of his sparkling eyes. He’s smiling but it’s mostly for you and it’s not a wide one by any means but it’s enough as he folds his bulging arms, showing he still has fight in him.
He was right, one picture is all that you needed.
And you find yourself staring at it for a long time while you all wait for him to get out of surgery.
It’s the hope of your lingering shared kiss in the hallway that keeps you going.
“I love you and I’ll see you when you get out. Don’t be diffcult in there.”
“Who me?” Bode smiles against your clasped hands that he brought up to his lips, “Never. I love you too, baby.”
“Until rust?”
“Until we rust.” He recites followed with a wink, giving your hand one last squeeze as you step out of the way, waving at him and hugging yourself as you watch Bode keep his eyes on you until he can’t.
Vince is the one who takes the role of steering you to follow the rest back to the waiting room.
You secretly vowed to never do this shit again but you knew the longer you stared at the photo you took of Bode and ended up showing to Vince and Sharon (Vince got a good chuckle out of this while Sharon scoffed and scolded the boy through the camera but still found herself grinning) and once Bode was well enough to fight fires again, he would be trying his damn hardest to come up with a skiing competition just between you two.
That brings a crooked smile to your face as you slouch in the chair, leg crossed over the other and you toss your head back to stare up at the ceiling.
Waiting…
You were deeply in love with Bode Leone and it was so sickening!
