#zudefanfic

[escritor-eso-creo]

Jamás me iría. [ZUDE]>Zero & Jude (Hit the floor) (en Wattpad) https://my.w.tt/aoJhVSPMdQ Seguramente jamás fue una buena idea el haber salido ésa noche. Quizá Zero tenía razón, quizá insistí tanto que...

[lorettaivy]

Zude Fan Fic - The Final Chapter - Home

Well here it is guys, The FINAL chapter to my fan fic 'Enough.' Thankyou to everyone who has read, commented, reblogged and liked this fan fic. I have enjoyed the process so much and hope u guys have too. I may write a spin off from the ending at some point so we shall see. A big THANKYOU to @zude-malec who I couldn't have done this without. She was always so willing to read, edit and proof my story. You are a superstar and I love you! 😘 You can read the story as a whole on AO3 under Enough or on separate blogs on this post. Thanks again everyone and please let me know what you think of the ending!! 😘😘 Home Jude gazes at Zero and slowly removes his hand from Zero's. "Quite the speech," Jude says, eyes piercing Zero's green eyes. "I meant every word," Zero says without skipping a beat. Jude looks around. "I can't do this right now. I have to find someone." "Who?" Zero replies standing in Jude's way as he tries to walk off. "Well, apparently Owen wasn't as taken away by your speech as everyone else was," Jude replies brazenly. "Were you?" Zero asks, staring into Jude's eyes. "Was I what?" Jude asks confused. "Taken away by my speech?" Zero asks quietly, almost timid. "It was hard not to be," Jude answers sincerely. The two men state at each other long and hard but neither move. The tension is palpable. Jude breaks the silence and shifts the mood. "I got your delivery today," Jude says nonchalantly, as if he delivered him a pot plant. "Bit presumptuous, isn't it?" Jude comments sassily. "I don't think so," Zero steps closer, eyes almost reaching into Jude's soul. Jude feels weak as Zero enters his personal space and his heart begins to beat uncontrollably. "I love you, Jude. I never stopped loving you for a single second. And I know you still love me too, because standing here, right now, I can feel it. And I sure as hell felt it the other night in my bed." Zero says honestly. Jude feels his knees go weak and his heart continues to beat faster but his words are strong and unshakable. "This was never a question of love, Zero. You know how much I love you, that never changed, but trust, that's changed." Jude says earnestly. "I am sorry for breaking your heart, Jude, and walking away from you, I truly am, but it was never about you." Zero exclaims. "I wanted you to be happy, to live your best life and I didn't think that was possible with me." Zero says with sadness. "But now, now I realize that's the only way either of us can truly be happy, because we belong together." Zero speaks with such conviction. He cups Jude's face in his hands and continues to speak. "And you know, deep down, if you're truly honest with yourself, that you believe it too." Zero kisses Jude slowly on the lips and walks away. Jude stands there feeling a million different things all at once. But right now, his focus needs to be on finding Owen. Jude continues to look for Owen to no avail so heads toward his car to drive to his apartment. He sees a man leaning on his car, staring into the night. "Owen, hey. I've been looking for you everywhere," Jude says, walking up to the brunette. "Sorry, I just needed some air," Owen says still staring into the night. "I'm sorry about all that. Are you okay?" Jude asks sincerely, almost looking embarrassed. "Interesting speech he gave," Owen says still looking into the distance. Jude remains silent unsure of what to say. "Do you still love him?" Owen asks intently. "Be honest with me Jude. I deserve that." "Yes." Jude says looking into the distance. "I wish I didn't but I do, and I'm not sure I will ever stop. I really hoped I could give you what you deserve Owen, and I wish I could move on from him but I can't. He's my one," Jude says with a brutal honesty that cuts Owen like glass. Owen nods his head in an attempt to hide some of the pain. "I'm going to head back to New York this week," Owen says as he looks over to Jude. Jude nods. "I am so sorry Owen. I never wanted to hurt you," Jude says sincerely. Owen gives a half smile. "I know, Jude. I know." Owen leans in and kisses Jude for the last time on the lips and walks away. Jude gets into his car, his mind clearer than its been in months, and begins driving without giving it any more thought. He knows exactly what he has to do. Zero is laying in his bed staring at the ceiling just thinking of Jude and the night's events. He can't help but think of the home he bought them and how wonderful their life could be together, if only Jude would trust him again and give their love another chance. Zero doesn't blame Jude for a second for being apprehensive. Zero rolls over and proceeds to let the exhaustion of the night lull him to sleep, too tired to wonder anymore. There is a knock at his door. Zero scurries to the door, opens it, and sees the man he so loves standing at the door. Jude walks in without being invited and begins to speak. "Okay, so I need to say this before I lose my nerve, so please don't interrupt me," Jude says hurriedly. "Okay," Zero replies nervously and shuts the door behind him. "You broke my heart in a way that no one ever has before. In a way it would never have been broken in the past because I would never have let anyone get that close, until you. You left me when all I wanted more than anything was for you to stay. At a time when all people did was leave me. You stopped believing in us for reasons that existed only in your mind and left me to pick up the pieces of my life, on my own. The pain was incomprehensible. I have never, ever been so broken in all my life." Jude speaks honestly without breaking eye contact with Zero. It's beyond brutal. All Zero wants to do is look away from him because hearing those words make him physically wince in pain. It's almost too much to bear, because he thinks he knows where this is headed and it isn't anywhere he wants it to go. Jude pauses and Zero looks down at the ground for what is about to be the ultimate blow. Jude steps forward and Zero, again, meets his gaze out of respect. Jude speaks slowly this time. "But, you, you are also the only person who has ever wanted to actively better themselves for me. The only person who has admitted fault and rendered themselves vulnerable to build a life they so desperately want with me. A life you believed we both deserved. But, most of all, you are the only person who has showed me what it's like to be able to trust someone again with everything that you are and everything you have." Zero's eyes widen with equal parts joy and shock. Jude continues as he cups Zero's face in his hands. "You, Gideon, are the love of my life, and my heart was and is yours, forever." Zero's face softens immediately at the realization of what he has just heard. His smile is so wide, it literally lights up the room. Zero grabs Jude and pulls him in for a kiss that is filled with so much love and passion.They break apart after what seems like seconds but has been minutes. "You don't know how long I have waited to hear you say those words to me, again," Zero says, still holding Jude close. The relief evident in his voice and shallow breathing. "Probably as long as I have fought against saying them to you," Jude replies shyly. Both men lean against each other's foreheads, breathing deeply and heavily as if the weight of the world has been lifted off their shoulders. "I have missed you so much," Zero says breathlessly. "I missed you too," Jude replies as he kisses Zero gently. "Let's go to bed," Zero gestures to the bedroom. "Is that all you want me for?" Jude teases. "To sleep," Zero exclaims. "There is nothing I want more in this world then to rip your clothes off and have my way with you." Zero says with desire. "But not tonight. Tonight, I wanna lay next to you and sleep. We have all the time in the world for the rest." Jude smiles in agreement and the two men walk hand in hand to Zero's bedroom. The next morning Jude awakes to a dressed Zero pacing the room like an excited school boy. "Morning," Zero says with a smile. "Morning," Jude says sleepily. "Sleep well?" Zero asks. "Better than I have in months," Jude says smiling. "What time is it?" "Late," Zero replies. "Lucky it's the weekend and I have you all to myself," Zero says sitting on the bed. "To do what?" Jude smirks. "You'll see," Zero says excitedly, kissing Jude on the lips. "Up and dressed." "Oh, I thought the activity might not include getting dressed," Jude says with a grin. "Plenty of time for that," Zero says as he walks out of the bedroom. Definitely a new Zero, Jude thinks. Once upon a time, he would never delay sex in favor of anything else. Jude smiles, his heart bursting with love for this man. "Here we are," Zero announces as they pull the car up to a spectacularly gorgeous but unfamiliar suburban home. "Where are we?" Jude asks confused. Zero gets out of the car and Jude follows, standing next to him, staring directly at the house. "Our home," Zero announces as he pulls a key from his pocket. Jude smiles, joy radiating from him as he admires the home. It's beautiful. Big without being an LA monstrosity. Picket fence, glass stained windows, return verandah, the whole nine yards. "Who would have picked you for the domestic type?" Jude says teasingly. Zero smiles back and kisses Jude quickly on the lips. "Let's go inside," Zero says beaming. The inside of the home is as beautiful as the outside. Wooden floors, French doors, marble bench tops, wooden-railed stair case, and exquisite furniture to match. It's picture perfect. "Wow," Jude exclaims in awe. "Like it?" Zero asks. "Yeah, it's incredible," Jude replies looking around. "I know right! As soon as I saw it I fell in love with it. Laura loved it too and thought it was, what did she say, 'incredibly romantic', how I was trying to win you back," Zero says proudly. Jude smiles at the thought of Zero and Laura developing a close relationship. Zero walks to the French doors expanding out to a beautiful, large backyard filled with a pool, a tennis court, and beautiful, large oak trees. Zero stares out the window. "And out back I'll have a court put in practice and who knows, maybe one day our sons will practice out here too," Zero says smiling at the thought of the future with Jude. Jude's eyes widen at the the mention of a family. "Sons?" Jude says surprised. "Or daughters," Zero replies casually. "Whichever," as if the gender was what Jude was surprised by. Jude smiles. This man never ceases to amaze him. "We can move in whenever you want," Zero turns to face Jude. "Thank you," Jude replies lovingly as he places his arms around Zero's waist and kisses him. "Thank you for giving me another chance," Zero says softly. "I love you, stupid," Jude teases and winks at Zero. "I love you too," Zero replies grinning before he kisses Jude. "Wait, I almost forgot to show you the best part." Zero exclaims and leads Jude to a small room. He opens it and smirks. "Shall we?" It's the coat closet. Jude laughs hard and feels an overwhelming amount of love and contentment. Knowing that whatever happens from here on out, their love would always prevail. They would always have each other because, together, they were a family. And that was everything. Jude replies, "You bet." THE END

[lorettaivy]

Zude Fan Fiction - Part 9 - Belief

Hi fellow followers Here is Part 9 - Belief - of the Zude Fan Fiction Enough. As always you can read is as whole on A03 or in separate posts on this blog. @zude-malec Thankyou as always. U are my girl! 💞😘 Please enjoy X Belief Jude wakes next to a muscular, handsome man and, for a split second, he has to remind himself that it's not Zero. He's frustrated, again, for letting Zero back into his bed and more evidently, his mind. Luckily, Owen hasn't seemed to noticed but certainly has been on higher alert since Jude slept with Zero. How could Jude have been so weak as to have given into Zero? Powerless and desperate for his touch. So pathetic. But that ache, deep in your soul, how do you ignore that ache? That fire burning inside? Jude knows he has to. He couldn't trust Zero with his heart anymore, even though he so desperately wants to. He was moving on and Owen was making him happier than he had been since the break up. Progress, Jude thought. These things take time. "Morning you," Jude says as Owen wakes slowly. "Morning," Owen replies sleepily. "You been awake long?" "A while," Jude replies smiling. "You must have worn me out last night," Owen replies with a smirk. "Must of," Jude says smiling as he kisses Owen on the lips lightly. The two men head into Jude's kitchen for breakfast after showering and dressing for work. "What's your plan for today?" Owen asks as he makes his coffee. "The usual. I have a few meetings early this morning then completing paperwork," Jude replies. "Well, I was thinking if you can take the afternoon off I would love to take you to this restaurant in Pasadena, The Eiffel. I've heard it's amazing," Owen says excitedly. "Oh yes, I think I drove past it the other day, actually, when I was in Pasadena. Looks really nice," Jude replies casually. "Why were you there? Hardly around the corner, Jude?" Owen smirks. Jude freezes, face turning red. Fuck. He needs to reply quickly but he's never been a particularly good liar. Strategist, yes. Liar, not so much. The air is rife with tension as Owen notices Jude's apprehension at the question and it doesn't take long for him to figure it out. "With him?" Owen says fiercely. Fuck. Jude remains silent and looks at his shoes. "What were you doing there with him?" Owen asks clearly agitated, leaning back on the sink. "Long story," Jude says nervously as he sips his coffee. Owen turns around and slams his coffee down and it goes all over the sink. Jude exhales deeply. "It wasn't a big deal, Owen," Jude says trying to calm the situation. "Well, you fucked him Jude, so I would call that a big deal," Owen says angrily, his voice raised. "I told you that was a mistake," Jude replies fiercely. "And that makes it okay, does it? I was gone for 3 days....3 days, and in that time you managed to get back into his bed or was it your bed? We never did get to the details of your heated night, did we?" Owen says loud and angrily, words spitting out like venom. Much like the Owen he remembers in the beginning. Jude is taken aback, but remains silent as his anger is warranted. Owen's breathing slows and he speaks with a softer voice this time. "He told me that I was kidding myself and that you and your heart would always belong to him." Owen says, clearly mad. Jude turns pale and his heart flutters gently at the thought of Zero saying those things. Fighting for him. Like Jude has always wanted. Jude continues to remain silent. "I'm starting to think he might be right," Owen says with sadness in his eyes. "I'm here with you, aren't I?" Jude says sincerely, looking Owen in the eyes. "Probably my own fault anyway. What's that crap they all talk about...karma?" he says with a half laugh covered in sadness. "It was so much easier to just fuck them and leave." Silence ensues. "And then you came along and... " Owen says honestly, voice trailing off. "I want this to work," Jude says sincerely as he steps toward Owen. "So do I," Owen says quietly, almost defeated, as he kisses Jude on the forehead and leaves Jude's apartment. Jude stays. A feeling of overwhelming sadness coming over him. ***** Jude doesn't hear much from Owen over the next couple of days. He figures he needs some time and space and, after everything he has been through, Jude wants to give him that. Jude heads home early feeling the weight of all the drama pounding him down. He figures it's perfect timing since tonight is the Devil's Annual Sponsors Appreciation Dinner. Although a black tie event is the last thing Jude feels like doing, at least he will get some R&R before he has to wine and dine tonight. There is a knock at the door and Jude sighs. He can't escape anyone or anything at the moment. "Delivery," a man shouts. 'Thank God' Jude thinks to himself and gets the door. The man hands him a small package and Jude signs for it. It's small and looks unimpressive. Jude opens it and inside is a single key with a note: "I'm sorry I gave up on us. I always believed in you. I just didn't believe in me. I bought us a home for when you are ready to believe in us again." -Zero The words permeate through Jude like a lightening bolt. Jude drops the key as his hands shake and the shock takes over his body. Was this really happening? Zero was laying down all his cards and letting Jude know that he was what he wanted for his life. For their life. He wants to make an unquestionable commitment to Jude. And this is the only way Zero knows how. It's entirely over the top but it's undeniably Zero. And undeniably incredible. Jude is overwhelmed with emotion. After all, this is the man he loves and adores and spent months trying to build a life with in spite of all his fears and insecurities. On the same token, this is also the man who broke his heart at the first sign of trouble. Could Jude ever entrust his heart to Zero again? **** Jude enters the black tie event feeling tense and anxious about the night ahead and the day's events. 'How did everything get so complicated?' Jude thinks to himself. But when is love ever simple? "Hi," Jude hears a voice behind him and it snaps him out of his thoughts and back into reality. A handsome, well-dressed man stands before him. "Owen, hey," Jude says surprised. "How are you?" Owen asks almost professionally. "Good, yeah, I'm good. Umm, you?" Jude answers, clearly flustered. "Yeah, I'm okay. I just, I just needed time to think," Owen says sincerely. "I figured as much," Jude replies honestly. "Look Owen, I-" Jude begins but Owen interrupts him. "Can we not, just for tonight, talk about any of it? Can we just forget the last few days for now and see how that goes?" Owen says as he steps forward and places his hands in Jude's. "We can do that," Jude says smiling. As if the idea of more talking pains his soul and hurts his brain. Tonight, they can just be. Owen and Jude spend the beginning of the night taking to the sponsors and just generally enjoying themselves, which is a nice change from the past couple of days. Jude is relieved when he doesn't spot Zero and begins to think he may have sat this one out. He's glad there wouldn't be a confrontation of any sort of, and with that thought, Jude begins to feel more relaxed. "Good evening everyone and welcome to the Devils' Annual Sponsor Appreciation Dinner." Pete's voice echoes from the front of the stage. "As always, we are thrilled to have you all here tonight celebrating your wonderful contribution to the Devils' team and, of course, its invaluable players." Pete continues. "Traditionally, the Team Captain would address you all but as Derek has had a family emergency, we have asked our Vice Captain to fill in. Everyone, please welcome to the stage, two time Championship winner, elite starter, all round impressive athlete and, The VC of The Devils', Zero." Jude's face turns pale as the hope for an uneventful night slowly fades. Fuck. Zero walks out looking gorgeous as ever. Jude can't help but inhale as Zero takes the stage. He is stunning in every way a man should be. Jude looks to Owen, who looks unnerved, and gives him a reassuring look. Owen's face softens only slightly. "Welcome everyone and thank you Pete for that very warm introduction. It's an honor and a privilege not only to be up here tonight standing in for Derek, our Team Captain, but also to be here, in your company, as part of the greatest basketball team in America, The Los Angeles Devils." Applaud and cheering ensues. "I came to the Devils' nearly two seasons ago and I can easily say that the time spent here has unequivocally been the best time of my life. Zero locks eyes with Jude and Jude can feel his gaze piercing him. He wants to look away but it's as if he is in a trance and his mind won't allow him to. Zero continues as he briefly looks away from Jude to address the crowd. "I've spent so much of my life running. Running away from where I grew up, from schools, from Ohio, even from Basketball, for a time, from who I really am. And it's only now that I realize, that I don't want to run anymore. I want to face who I really am and be the best version of that person. Because I am good enough and I do deserve that." The crows applauses. Jude smiles nervously as Zero locks his eyes on him, again. Jude knows exactly where this is headed. Zero continues once the applause dies down. "Someone believed in me, long before any of this happened," Zero motions around the room. "He continued to believe in me even when I couldn't anymore. Not just in basketball, but in everything. He changed the way I perceived the world and even the way the world perceived me." Zero looks down. Then looks back up again at Jude. "I broke his heart, and my own in the process, because I stopped seeing the possibilities. But what I've realized, thanks to him, is that I can mend my own heart, discover the real me, and believe in myself undoubtedly. He gave me the greatest gift anyone has ever given me." The crowd is enamored and quiet. Jude's still in a trance and hasn't taken his eyes off of Zero. Zero, again finding Jude's eyes, continues. "Jude, I never stopped believing in our love. I just didn't think it was possible that you could actually love me for me. But now I know, that all things, no matter how far out of reach they seem, are always possible. The fear and the doubt, that stuff only hinders finding the real you. The best you. You and I together, we are the best versions of ourselves and I can not and I will not, give up on that. Not now, not ever." The crowd stays quiet, eyeing off Jude, unsure of how to react. Zero breaks the silence again. "Okay, I'm sorry about that," Zero says rubbing the back of his neck nervously. "I'm certain Derek would have done a much better job with this than me, less emotional that's for sure." The crowd laughs and begin to clap as Zero thanks the sponsors and the crowd and walks off the stage. Jude is dumbfounded and floored. But his heart is bursting. During the speech, Owen must of disappeared because he wasn't next to Jude anymore. Fuck, Jude thinks as he stands and begins to search for Owen, not even allowing himself to process what had just happened. Jude gets outside to search for Owen, having no luck inside, when he feels someone's hand grab his to stop him. "Can we talk?" Zero asks quietly.

[lorettaivy]

Zude Fan Fic - Part 8 - Damage

Hi again guys Here is Part 8 to my fan fiction Enough called Damage. You can read it as a whole on AO3 or separately on this blog. Thanks again to my girl @zude-malec for proofing and editing. She always has my back. Love you girl! Xx 😘 Please enjoy guys and let me know what you think of this chapter - Damage. Zero wakes, at what seems like the middle of the night, to quiet rustling noises. He searches for his phone to check the time. It's 6:12 a.m., too early he thinks. He reaches to the other side of the bed, expecting to feel Jude's muscular body, but all he touches are blankets. It's then he notices a figure at the end of his bed, dressed, putting on his shoes. "Jude," Zero says huskily in his morning voice. "What are you doing? Come back to bed," Zero continues sleepily. "I have to go," Jude says as he ties his laces and stands up. "Hey," Zero says worryingly as he slides on his boxer shorts. "What's wrong?" Zero walks over to Jude and tries to touch him but Jude moves back. "Last night...." Jude says nervously, "We shouldn't have," Jude continues, clearly frustrated with himself. "Why?" Zero asks confused. "I want us to be together again," Zero responds and immediately regrets the way the words sound as they tumble out his mouth. "What about what I want, Zero?" Jude says angrily. "You broke my heart into a million pieces, remember? You think sinking to your knees and a few clumsy apologies are going to be enough to rectify that?" Jude continues. Zero looks down and tries to speak but Jude won't let him. "This is so typical of you, Zero. I was moving on..." Jude says, equal parts frustrated and sad, shaking his head. "I wouldn't even know how to trust you anymore," Jude says painfully as he walks out of Zero's apartment. Zero slumps onto the bed, feeling like his heart has been ripped out of his chest. **** Jude packs up his briefcase around 8 p.m., ready to head home and drown his worries in a bottle of vodka. How could he have been so stupid last night? Giving in to Zero like that after everything he put him through. He was so frustrated at himself for allowing it to happen but even more mad at himself for having enjoyed it so much. Touching Zero again, feeling his breathe on his skin, his hands on his face as they kissed tenderly, their bodies against one another, so comforting and warm. It had felt like coming home. The truth was being with Zero was all Jude has ever wanted, but not like this. Zero would just break his heart all over again and Jude couldn't risk that kind of emotional turmoil. Jude's mind begins to think of Owen. He knows they had never discussed being exclusive but this was going to be a hard pill for Owen to swallow if Jude did confess. He didn't want to hurt Owen. Owen had been amazing to Jude the last couple of weeks and incredibly patient with him. Jude felt so conflicted. His mind was a mess. His heart being pulled in so many different directions. He couldn't process any of it. And tonight he wouldn't process any of it. He would go home and drink his worries away and tomorrow, tomorrow he would devise a plan, like he always did. **** Jude wakes to the sound of a knock at the door. His head pounding from a night of vodka flavoured drinks. "Coming," he shouts as he throws on his boxers and runs to the door. He opens it. "Hello you," Owen says as he leans in and kisses Jude cheekily. Jude pulls back briefly as panic sets in. Fuck. "Hey, Hi. ummm, you're back already," Jude says sounding surprised. "You sound disappointed," Owen says sadly. "No, not at all. I'm sorry, I just wasn't expecting you back for another few days, that's all," Jude says sincerely. "I finished work up quickly so I could get back to you," Owen says, clearly smitten with the man standing in front of him. Jude smiles apprehensively. Owen begins to kiss Jude passionately. Jude cannot help but think of the night spent with Zero and the guilt begins to set in. "I've missed this so much," Owen says as he runs a hand down Jude's torso and places his hand inside his boxers. Jude goes hard at his warm touch and exhales deeply. Unexpectedly, Owen drops to his knees and frees Jude's erection. He strokes it with his tongue then takes him fully into his mouth. Jude throws his head back as Owen begins to thrust against his cock with his mouth. Fuck, Jude thinks to himself. But, unlike last time this happened, Jude cannot seem to get out of his head. The guilt is mounting fast and almost involuntarily, the words come tumbling out of his mouth. "I slept with Zero." Owen stops and stands. Jude repositions his boxers and proceeds to run his hands through his hair nervously. "What?" Owen says as he regains his composure, shock clearly evident in his expression. "It was a mistake and I am sorry," Jude says seriously. "It meant nothing," Jude lies. "Fuck!" is all Owen can manage to get out as he steps back from Jude. He's not sure how to feel. Hurt and angry seem to be the most prominent emotions that come to his mind. "Do you want him back?" Owen asks honestly. "No," Jude lies again. "I want you Jude, more than I have ever wanted anyone before," Owen continues as he walks toward Jude and cups his hands around Jude's face. "But you have to want me back," Owen says seriously. "Do you?" Jude looks at Owen's face long and hard and sees the sincerity radiating from his eyes, it hurts him. Owen wants to give himself and all of himself to Jude, and that means so much to Jude. It means he believes in them as a couple, something he wish Zero did. Jude hopes that in time he too can reciprocate that belief to Owen. He deserves that. "Yeah, I do," Jude answers still feeling emotionally conflicted inside. Owen leans in and kisses the man he is clearly falling for. **** "You are getting it from all angles aren't you?" Lionel smirks as she sits on Jude's desk. "You could at least share." Don't think you're really Owen's type," Jude says nonchalantly, refusing to look up from his papers to entertain Lionel's childish antics. "I could try to prey on Zero," Lionel winks at Jude. "Although, emotionally unavailable, damaged men aren't really my thing," Lionel adds sassily. "He's all yours," Jude says, trying to act like he doesn't care. "Yeah, okay, Jude, even I'm not that stupid. We both know Zero is all yours," Lionel says as she jumps off the desk. "Zero and I are through," Jude says calmly. Lionel gives out a sarcastic laugh. "The other night suggests otherwise." Jude, You might be able to fool Owen, you might even be able to fool yourself, but you certainly can't fool me. You and Zero are far from through," Lionel says as she walks out of Jude's office. **** Zero walks into the arena on his way to practice, still feeling slightly down and out about the way the other morning had went with Jude. But this time it felt different, like there was a fire in Zero's belly to make things right. Not only with Jude but with himself. He was ready to be the man he needed to be, not only for Jude but for himself. He was stepping up to the plate and he was going to prove to Jude that he can trust him and believe in their love again. Zero and Owen meet awkwardly walking to their respective places of work in the Devils' arena. Zero attempts to divert his path but Owen seems adamant about meeting. Just the mere sight of the brunette makes Zero want to physically hurt him, but the new Zero resists the urge. "He doesn't belong to you anymore," Owen asserts as he walks up to Zero. "Hello to you too," Zero says with a smirk. "You are his past, Zero. I am his future, got it?" Owen says assertively, but calmly. "No, the question is, does Jude get it?" Zero replies fiercely. "You think one quick fuck with him is enough to ruin what we're building together?" Owen says with fire in his eyes. Zero looks momentarily shocked by the honesty Jude revealed. He shouldn't be surprised though, Jude's honesty is one of the things that Zero loves most about him. Zero laughs briefly. "How the tables have turned?" Zero smirks. "You might have been able to psyche me out a few months ago with your mind game bullshit, but not anymore." Zero steps forward and locks eyes with the man he so despises. "Stop kidding yourself, Owen. You're just a temporary distraction," Zero says. "Jude and his heart will ALWAYS belong to me," Zero says with a confidence that's hard to question. And with that, he walks away, leaving Owen in his wake.

[lorettaivy]

Zude Fan Fiction - Part 7 - Connections

Hi guys

Here is Part 7 of my Zude Fan Fiction Enough called Connections.

Please read it as a whole in AO3 under Enough or in separate posts on this blog.

Thanks again to @zude-malec for being my girl and helping me edit and proof. I actually adore u! Please enjoy guys and tell me what you think! 😘

Connections

Zero remains quiet on the drive to meet Laura, clearly feeling anxious and trying to deal with so many emotions he has kept buried for a very long time. Jude can’t help but look over at him with concern while they drive, resisting the urge to place his hand on Zero’s knee for comfort. Something he would of easily done had they still been together.

Zero and Jude arrive at the meeting place in Pasadena. They park the car and begin to walk towards the cafe. “Are you okay?” Jude asks with concern.

“Yeah, I think so,” Zero replies nervously.

“Here we are, Cafe J,” Jude says softly. “Want me to wait out here?” Jude asks tentatively.

“No, come with me, please,” Zero says like a lost little boy. They walk into the cafe together.

“Gideon,” a quiet voice calls out. Zero turns around and sees a well-dressed, small framed, young girl, with long blonde hair and green eyes staring at him.

“Laura,” Zero says smiling.

She walks towards him and puts her arms around his waist and embraces him. Zero, clearly shocked by the warm embrace, reciprocates and hugs her back tightly, feeling relieved. They finally break apart.

“This is so surreal, ” Laura says tearfully.

“I know, right,” Zero replies nervously.

“You look good,” Laura says, rubbing Zero’s arm affectionately.

“Thanks, you too,” Zero replies kindly.

Jude hangs back looking on and smiling at the warm meeting taking place in front of him.

“Hi, I’m Laura,” she motions to Jude and shakes his hand.

“Nice to meet you,” Jude says kindly.

“This is Jude,” Zero says, introducing them.

“Nice to meet you too,” Laura says warmly.

“I’m going to take a walk and let you two catch up,” Jude says softly.

“Yeah, okay. Thanks,” Zero replies, looking much more at ease now.

Zero and Laura spend well over an hour getting to know each other again and learning what happened since Zero left the foster home over a decade ago.

Laura had gone to community college and was now training to be a nurse. She was working part-time in a coffee shop and was living in a shared house with two girlfriends. She doesn’t follow basketball but had seen Zero once or twice in the papers and had wondered if he was Gideon, never quite sure or brave enough to try and find out. Laura was bright, well-spoken, and had seem to thrive from the adversity of a broken childhood. Zero was equal parts surprised and relieved.

“Hey,” Zero says as he spots Jude walking into the cafe. “We’re almost done for now, so we’ll head off,” Zero says softly.

“No worries. I’ll go get the car,” Jude says smiling,noticing how relaxed Zero looks in Laura’s company.

“Jude, right?” Laura says.

“Yep,” Jude replies.

“How do you know my brother?” Laura asks inquisitively. Zero smiles because hearing the word ‘brother’ makes his heart swell. It’s an incredible feeling.

“I used to be his agent. Now we work together as part of the Devils Basketball Team,” Jude says smiling.

“He’s my boss,” Zero says with a smirk, looking at Jude.

Jude looks at Zero affectionately and laughs.

“It was lovely to meet you Laura,” Jude says. “I’ll meet you out the front, Zero.” He touches Zero on the shoulder before walking away. Zero watches him leave.

“You too,” Laura says sweetly.

Laura grins at Zero. “What?” Zero asks confused.

“You love him?” Laura asks as if it’s more of a statement than a question.

Zero smiles and looks down. “It’s complicated.”

“He clearly loves you too. I can tell,” Laura says as she leans back in her chair, arms folded.

Zero gives Laura a smile. “Can we hang next week? Would that be okay?”

“Absolutely!” Laura says standing up and squeezing her brother tight.

Zero pays for the coffees and snacks, exchange phone numbers, and hands Laura a stash of cash to help her with her rent or whatever she needs. Laura fights tooth and nail, insisting she doesn’t need it. Zero is adamant that she take it as his brotherly instinct kicks in.

Zero is a different person on the car ride home. He’s smiling and at ease. He tells Jude all about Laura and how the connection between them felt instant. It was as if they had never been apart. Zero seems so much happier, more content, more at peace. Like a weight has been lifted off of his shoulders.

Zero and Jude pull up to Zero’s apartment. “Thank You for coming today?” Zero says sincerely.

“You are very welcome. I couldn’t be happier for you Zero, honestly. Laura is amazing and I’m so glad for you both,” Jude replies lovingly.

Zero smiles. “Would you like to come inside?” Zero asks nervously.

“I don’t think that’s a good idea,” Jude says softly.

“Please? Just for a bit.” Zero pleads. “I’ll make you dinner as a thank you for coming with me today,” Zero says, puppy eyes in full effect.

Jude stares into Zero’s eyes and cannot resist him. “Only if we order take away. Your cooking is so bad!” Jude replies cheekily.

Zero smirks at Jude, happiness beaming from his soul and replies, “Deal!”

Jude walks into Zero’s apartment and it immediately feels familiar. The lounge room reminds him of nights spent lying together watching sports, the kitchen remanent of nights spent eating cereal before they would retreat to the bedroom to make love. So many memories. All a distant blur through layers of heartache. But tonight, tonight it feels different, less painful. It’s a welcome change. Jude refocuses his attention on the here and now.

Zero answers the door and hands the delivery man the money for the food, plus a hefty tip.

“Let’s eat,” Zero shouts.

Jude walks over to the table. “I love Deniros,” Jude exclaims.

“I know you do,” Zero says smiling at Jude.

Jude’s heart swells knowing that Zero remembered his favourite restaurant. He fights back the urge to kiss this man he loves so painfully much.

They spend the night talking, laughing, and feeling relaxed in each other’s company for the first time in a long time. Zero seems calmer and more at ease. It makes Jude feel so at ease in his company. Like old times but with a clarity Jude hasn’t witnessed in Zero before.

Jude’s phone rings as Zero is clearing the table from dinner. It’s Owen. Zero picks up the phone and hands it to Jude, looking defeated. Jude walks into another room and lies to Owen about where he is because he’s worried about complicating the situation even more than it already is. After a short conversation he hangs up the phone and enters the kitchen where Zero is uncharacteristically washing dishes. He has staff to do that normally. He doesn’t turn around when Jude enters the kitchen.

“I’m lost without you,” Zero says quietly.

Jude stays silent staring at Zero’s back.

“I want to be okay without you but I’m not,” Zero continues. “I need you more than I have ever needed anything in my life.” Zero says with an honesty Jude has rarely witnessed in his life.

Jude has waited so long to hear Zero say these words since they broke up. But Jude, naturally cautious, is fearful whether he can ever trust Zero again. Jude can’t help but feel frustrated that just as he has finally moved on with Owen, Zero drops this. This is so typical of Zero, Jude thinks.

“Zero, please, don’t,” Jude pleads at the shitty timing of Zero’s honesty.

“I know! This isn’t fair on you. And I am sorry. I’m sorry for everything I have put you through!” Zero exclaims sincerely.

“I can’t do this right now,” Jude says exasperated. “I’ve moved on,” Jude says painfully.

Zero looks hurt and leans back on the sink.

“I have to go,” Jude whispers.

“Don’t go…Please,” Zero says softly as he walks toward Jude.

Jude turns to walk out the front door but is stopped abruptly by Zero grabbing his arm and pulling Jude into a passionate, lingering kiss. A kiss so full of raw emotion neither of them can actually process what is happening through the haze of desire and pure confusion.

Jude’s mind tells him to pull away, that this isn’t right and he has moved on, but his heart and his body won’t allow him to. He is so emotionally conflicted but he wants Zero more than he wants his next breath.

Kissing Zero again is like tasting water after being trapped on a desert island. Jude feels alive again and is no longer able to control his body. He is weak and powerless when it comes to all things Zero.

Zero continues to kiss Jude passionately. Jude feels dizzy. He’s not entirely sure if it’s from the wine he drank at dinner or from the desire of being with Zero again. Probably the latter.

Zero’s hands make their way down to Jude’s jeans zipper and he slowly pulls it down and frees his hardening erection. Zero pulls away from Jude’s lips and sinks to his knees, taking Jude into his mouth as if to pay penance for his sins. Jude throws his head back, huskily voicing Zero’s name as desire fills him. He reaches his hands into Zero’s hair to allow himself some leverage.

Zero stands again. “God, I have missed this,” Zero says as if being with Jude is the only thing he will ever need. He leads Jude into his bedroom. They undress each other slowly as if to savour the moment. Zero is more attentive and more loving than Jude has ever seen and it sends chills down Jude’s spine.

They spend the night making love as if the world is going to end in the morning. Zero’s holding Jude’s weight as he comes heavily in his arms, as if to anchor him the same way Jude has anchored him in the past. Jude’s reveling in the way Zero says his name as he too reaches the peak of ecstasy.

Jude and Zero stare into each other’s eyes lovingly, bodies sweaty and intertwined, fitting together perfectly like puzzle pieces before falling asleep naked in each other’s arms.

The weight of what tomorrow will bring is far from either of their minds as right now, this is where they are both supposed to be. Everything else can wait.

[lorettaivy]

Zude Fan Fic - Part 6 - Moving On

Hi guys Here is Part 6 to my fan fic Enough called Moving On. It's posted on AO3 if you would like to read it as a whole on there. As always, thanks to my girl @zude-malec For all the love, support and help! Couldn't do it without you! 😘 Please enjoy and let me know what you think! Moving On Owen had been called out on an urgent business meeting so he had to postpone lunch with Jude to dinner. He had promised to make Jude dinner at his apartment. Jude was slightly relieved because he needed time to process the events of the day. What was Zero playing at? Did he mean it? Did this mean they still had a chance? Jude pondered these questions as he left the office for home. Could he even trust Zero again? He wasn't entirely sure about anything anymore. He sent Zero a text message when he got home. 'Are you okay?' Zero replied shortly after. 'I'm fine, don't worry about me.' Jude knew exactly what that message meant. It was Zero's way of setting Jude straight. That today's moment of weakness meant nothing. Jude was angry at himself for thinking today might have meant anything else, for allowing himself to believe, even for a second, that Zero wanted him back the way he so desperately wanted him to. Jude put his phone down. He refocused his thoughts on tonight, on Owen, and jumped into the shower. He wasn't going to let Zero sabotage any more of his time. Owen's apartment was incredible, like something out of an old Hollywood movie. The man certainly had money and taste to match. "I hope you like steak," Owen yells from the kitchen as Jude sticky beaks around the apartment. "Absolutely," Jude shouts back. "This apartment is beautiful." Owen walks out and sets the food on the table. Jude can't help but admire how incredibly gorgeous Owen is. Tall, dark, hair ruffled back, body like an Ancient Greek God. He looked particularly gorgeous in casual clothes, Jude thought. White V-neck top and jeans hanging just low enough to reveal his etch V. "Thank you. Property is a passion of mine, kind of like a collection," Owen says casually. As if collecting homes is the same as collecting stamps. Jude and Owen retreat to the balcony for a drink after dinner. Jude leans on the balcony and glares out to the dark sky lit by the night lights as Owen gets the wine. Jude feels a warm body slide around him as Owen rests against his back and places his arms around him. Jude smiles. "Thank you for dinner," Jude says sincerely. "You are most welcome," Owen replies gently. A minute passes in silence as both men watch the beauty of the night sky, when Owen cautiously breaks the silence. "Was everything okay today? With Zero I mean?" Owen asks quietly. Jude exhales, feeling exasperated that, again, Zero has managed to sabotage this date too. Jude turns around to face Owen, their faces close and bodies even closer. "Everything is fine. I don't want to talk about Zero," Jude replies, then kisses Owen passionately. Owen reciprocates wholeheartedly. Both men losing each other in that kiss. It's full of passion, longing, and desire. Owen's hands begin to move, searching Jude's body. Jude becomes aware that the situation is beginning to escalate, both from Owen's hardness against him and his hands making his way down to Jude's zipper. As always, Jude begins to overthink the situation, but when Owen unzips his pants and reaches his hand inside Jude's underwear, Jude loses all resolve. For once, he allows his body to do the thinking, instead of his mind. It's a welcome change. Owen is an incredibly attentive lover and is clearly well versed in this area, which makes Jude even more nervous. He makes sure to ask Jude if he's okay throughout and uses his name often, which Jude finds incredibly sexy. Jude returns the favour when he climaxes by screaming Owen's name which tips Owen over the edge too. They both lay naked, sweaty, and sticky in each other's arms as they fall into a deep slumber. **** Zero spends a quiet night at home. He would normally take the day's frustrations out at a club surrounded by strangers all trying to get a piece of the infamous Zero, but not tonight, maybe not anymore. Something was shifting in Zero. Seeing Jude today, seeing him with Owen had moved something in him. He wants Jude to be happy. But he wants to be happy too. He cannot continue on this path of self-destruction. He needs to deal with his insecurities, his past, and all his issues before he can be the person he needs to be. Before he can find Gideon again. Not just for Jude but for himself. **** Jude wakes in Owen's arms and slowly moves out of his embrace as to not wake him up. He begins to stir and wakes anyway. "Morning," Owen says sleepily. "Morning," Jude replies trying to cover himself up with a sheet, feeling exposed. Owen notices and pulls the sheet away. "There's nothing there I didn't see up close and personal last night," Owen says cheekily. Jude smiles as he begins to think of last night and all the things they had done together. Jude blushes. Owen leans in for a kiss. "Can I use your shower?" Jude asks when they break apart. "Only if I can join you," Owen says as he begins to lead Jude to the bathroom. **** Jude and Owen enter the arena together, both men looking relaxed and happy. "God, you look good in my suit," Owen says desire in his voice. "Thanks for letting me borrow it," Jude says as he grins. "No worries, you can keep it if you like, looks better on you anyway," Owen says as he stops them in the corridor. "I doubt that," Jude replies winking at Owen. "Hopefully, I'll get to rip it off of you later, anyway," Owen says teasingly as he kisses Jude on the lips and walks to his temporary office. Jude smiles and begins to walk to his office. He spots Zero in the distance. Fuck. "Hey," Zero says. "Hey, hi," Jude fumbles his words, clearly nervous. "How's your head? "Much better today," Zero replies. Silence ensues. "Nice suit," Zero says snidely. Fuck. Jude thinks to himself. This is the man who can't tell the difference between the cereals in the pantry but notices that Jude is wearing a suit that isn't his. Fuck! "Thanks," is all Jude can manage as his cheeks flush red. "Nice night?" Zero continues to bait Jude. Jude doesn't answer. He looks down at his shoes. "Is his package as big as his ego?" Zero says with bravado. "Stop," Jude says shaking his head clearly frustrated with Zero. "Is this a game to you, Zero? Was that all I was?" Jude says eyes piercing into Zero's. Zero looks away momentarily. Then looks back at Jude. "How can you even ask that?" Zero says honestly. Zero looks back into the distance. "Because that's how it feels. I can't get anything real from you anymore. I'm starting to wonder if any of it was," Jude says pain in his eyes. "Everything with us was real," Zero says honestly. "Then what is all this bullshit about?" Jude questions. "Self preservation maybe," Zero says softly. "All I have ever wanted is for you to be happy, Jude," Zero continues sincerely. "Well I was, with you!" Jude says without breaking eye contact with Zero. "But you threw it all away." Jude says sadly. "Hopefully, I will be happy again." And with that, Jude walks away. Zero knows exactly what he means. And even though he wants Jude to move on and to be happy with someone else, it doesn't change the fact that it continues to hurt like hell. **** "You slept with him, didn't you?" Lionel asks suspiciously. "Lionel, please," Jude says rubbing his forehead. "Is there something you want?" Jude asks exasperated. "I knew it! God, I'm good! I can just tell by your demeanor. Still tortured but lighter-on-your-feet tortured," Lionel says smiling victoriously. "I need to work, Lionel, so if there isn't anything else you want, can you please get out of my office," Jude says calmly. "What was it like? I bet he has a huge...." "Okay! Thank you, Lionel, get out," Jude interrupts and pushes Lionel out of his office just as Owen is walking in. "Maybe you'll give me the details instead?" Lionel says motioning to Owen. "On?" Owen asks intrigued. "Nothing! Lionel was just leaving." He says to Owen. "I will tell you later as long as you stop talking," Jude says quietly to Lionel. "Deal!" Lionel bounces happily away. Jude closes the door and turns to Owen. "Sorry about that! Hi!" Jude says clearly exhausted from Lionel's antics. "What was that about?" Owen asks stepping closer to Jude. "Nothing! It was nothing. How's your day, anyway?" Jude inquires, trying to change the subject. "Fine, umm, actually something has come up with work. My father has asked me to go back to New York for the remainder of the week," Owen sighs disappointedly. "I should be back by Sunday, Monday the latest." "Okay, no worries," Jude says, understanding the perils of business. "I just feel like this is bad timing, with us. I mean us being new and all. I really don't want to go," Owen says sincerely and nervously. "It's fine, Owen. I'll be here when you get back," Jude says reassuringly and kisses Owen passionately. **** Zero's phone rings and he answers. "Yeah?" "Zero, it's Michael, the PI," a voice says. "We found your sister." **** Jude had spent the night at Owen's and had arrived to work early as Owen headed to the airport. Around 8 a.m., there is a knock on his door. "Come in," Jude shouts, thinking its most likely going to be Lionel pounding him down for more details on Owen. "Hi," a familiar voice echoes. "Zero. Hey," Jude stands in slight shock. "Are you okay?" "I'm fine. Can I sit down?" Zero asks softly. "Of course," Jude motions to a chair. Silence ensues. Zero breaks it. "I found my sister," Zero says looking at Jude. "Oh wow! I didn't even know you were looking for her. That's great." Jude says with shock and then happiness. "You had said I should a while back and something in me just clicked recently. So, I hired a PI and he found her," Zero says matter of factly. "Good for you, Zero," Jude says genuinely. "She lives here in L.A. She agreed to meet me tomorrow," Zero continues. "Wow! Excellent, I'm really happy for you," Jude says sincerely. Zero looks at his feet and back at Jude. "I have a favour to ask and I know I have no right to ask this of you anymore so it's fine if you say No, but I had to ask anyway," Zero says nervously. Jude looks perplexed. "Will you come with me tomorrow to see her?" Zero says softly. Jude looks partly shocked and partly relieved. Jude has always been Zero's anchor, his sounding board, and his safe haven. Even apart Zero desperately needs Jude to be there for him. Jude smiles at Zero and replies, "Absolutely!"

[lorettaivy]

Zude Fan Fiction - Challenges

Hi guys

This is a follow up to my other fan fic called ‘Enough’ so you will need to read that first for this to make sense. 😄

This fan fic includes a couple of requests from fellow Zude fans on tumblr so thanks for the support and prompts peeps.

Thanks again to @zude-malec for editing this for me. Ur the best 😘

Hope you all love it.

****

Monday morning came around all too quickly and Jude was feeling the weight of a jam-packed weekend. Zero was still lying sleepily in bed, naked and adorned by the crisp linen sheets, when Jude kissed him on the forehead and told him he would see him at the arena.

Jude was still conscious of the after effects that the awkward meeting between Zero and Owen had created. It had made Zero particularly clingy all weekend, not that Jude minded one bit. Zero was always very confident and self-assured, so seeing another vulnerable side, albeit a slightly jealous one, was a nice change. Zero was blossoming with Jude and that made his insecurity all the more understandable. It was really the first time both men had opened up their hearts and souls to someone else, which only meant that this uncharted territory was bound to have its challenges. What neither of them had banked on was those challenges being set by someone else.

“Jude,” a voice shouts across while Jude is walking to his office to start the week off. Jude turns around to see who is calling him and stumbles slightly when he realizes who it is. Fuck.

“Owen, what are you still doing here? I thought you were heading back to New York after our business meeting?” Jude states incredulously.

“Nice to see you too, Jude,” Owen replies sarcastically but with enough charm that would make most people go weak in the knees.

“I’m sorry, I just didn’t expect to see you here again,” Jude replies with honest confusion.

“Well my father suggested I tie up a few loose ends here in LA and at the arena so I’ll be staying out here for a while,” Owen answers ominously. “Lucky you, hey?” Owen winks.

“Hmm, great,” Jude replies nervously while heading towards his office.

“I’ll pop into your office later to discuss some things,” Owen shouts out as he leaves the arena.

Fuck, Jude thinks to himself! Knowing Zero, he isn’t going to like this at all.

**** “Well I think they’re some valid concerns we can address,” Jude says anxiously trying to finish the meeting as quick as possible to get Owen out of his office.

Zero usually pops in any time during the day just to chat, sometimes to do other less innocent things but mostly just to be together. Jude was hoping today was not one of those days. He wanted to break the news to Zero gently that Owen would be sticking around a little longer and make sure he knew there was nothing to worry about. If he had walked into the office and saw him and Owen alone together, he knew that message would be much harder to convey.

“Ok, then, let’s discuss the rest tomorrow, over lunch? Owen asks knowing full well it’s actually a statement. His cockiness would almost be impressive had it not been so blatant.

“Sure,” Jude replies, not really paying attention to the question but happy that Owen is standing ready to leave his office.

The door swings open just as the two men are shaking hands and immediately Jude knows who it is. He is the only person who doesn’t knock, ever. Even Lionel manages to knock these days but it’s usually only to make sure that we’re not getting busy on the desk. Fuck, Jude thinks to himself for the third time today. Zero’s eyes widen and his expression hardens as soon as he sees the handsome man standing opposite Jude. It takes all his will power not to lunge at him with brute force.

Miraculously, he manages to calm himself enough to say, “Sorry I didn’t realize you were with someone?”

“Well a knock on the door is considered courteous in the developing world but we will forgive you, only because you’re from a low socioeconomic background,” Owen replies dryly, giving Zero a wry smile.

Jude drops his pen along with his jaw. Zero clenches his fists but, strangely enough, remains calm. “Well I will remember that next time I’m driving my Porsche into my low socioeconomic mansion,” shutting the handsome brunette down with ease.

Jude smiles.

Owen raises his eyebrows and turns back to Jude, “Tomorrow, lunch!” Before he walks out the office, brushing Zero’s shoulder on his way out.

“He’s staying in LA for a while on some business,” Jude says calmly. “I didn’t know until today.”

“Business, right!” Zero answers shaking his head.

“You don’t think he’s here…” Jude questions curiously.

“That’s exactly what I think,Jude,” Zero replies seriously.

“No way!” Jude states confidently. “Anyway, who cares what he’s here for, it has nothing to do with us!” Jude says putting his arms around his boyfriend’s waist and planting a quick kiss on his lips.

“Just be careful with him, Jude. He’s used to getting what he wants and my bet is he won’t stop until he gets it,” Zero says nervously.

“Well we’ll see about that,” Jude says confidently trying to soften the mood in the air. “Let’s go to lunch!” He grabs Zero by the hand and they head out.

****

Jude heads back to his office for a short while after lunch to sort out a few things, then promises to watch Zero practice in the afternoon. Things had been running relatively smooth at Devil’s headquarters so Jude knew finishing the day off a couple hours early wouldn’t be a problem. How could he resist the way Zero had asked him to come, anyway? He was putty in Zero’s hand. And he was completely ok with that.

Jude settled in courtside and spent most of the practice just eyeing Zero, which Zero was completely aware of because occasionally he would look over and give Jude a sexy wink. Jude smiled back affectionately.

“The EVP taking a well-deserved break, is he?” A voice echoes from behind Jude.

Jude stands startled, knowing exactly who it is. “Hi, just watching the boys practice,” Jude says nervously.

“They look good,” Owen replies sincerely.

“Yeah, the season is progressing nicely,” Jude replies, trying to remain calm, knowing full well Zero is watching.

Zero notices the two men talking and his concentration slips almost instantly.

“Zero, what the fuck was that?” Pete yells.

“Sorry, coach,” Zero replies, clearly agitated at himself for letting Owen’s presence get the better of him.

“We did never get to that bar, did we?” Owen asks, stepping closer to Jude.

Jude takes a small step backwards as to keep his distance.

“Look, Owen, I’m flattered, really I am, but I’m with Zero so this,” gesturing with his hands between their chests, “is never going to happen.” Jude says firmly.

“You think, Jude?” Owen says placing his hands on Jude’s tie, altering it into position, “I think you’ll tire of his childish antics in time, gesturing his head towards Zero “and I think this,” touching Jude’s chest intimately then his own, “is exactly what’s going to happen!” He whispers seductively.

Jude pulls away from him instinctively and panic sets in. Zero sees red at what he is witnessing between Owen and Jude and the calm demeanor he had managed to keep in the office earlier today disappears almost instantaneously as fury takes its place.

He walks over to Owen and pushes his chest hard and the devilishly handsome brunette stumbles backwards.

“Back off!” Zero asserts aggressively. Practice comes to a holt. As the players settle in for a show. Owen smirks as he regains his balance.

“Easy Zero,” Owen straightens his tie as he speaks calmly, clearly goading the athlete, “You really don’t need anymore bad press do you?”

“Zero, enough!” Jude says as he holds his boyfriend back with his body quite calmly but clearly nervous as the situation seemingly escalates.

“You either back off or I’ll make you!” Zero says angrily.

“Famous last words,” Owen replies sarcastically. “Keep your pants on Zero, he’s yours… For now.” Owen replies with distain and a smirk as he walks away.

Zero’s anger hasn’t lessened and Jude is trying to calm him with his hands on his face.

“He’s a piece of work. Who does he think he is touching you like that! I knew he wouldn’t give up so easily, I fucking knew it!!” Zero says with fury in his voice.

“Hey, hey, look at me,” Jude says in a whisper. “Fuck him! It’s still just you and me! It’s always going to be just you and me!” Jude says affectionately.

Zero calms slightly when he looks at Jude and kisses him gently on the lips.

Derek runs over to Owen as he is walking out the arena into the corridor. As Team Captain, Derek is fiercely protective of his team mates and the ripple effect any personal matters have on the team. “Hey man, you need to chill and back away from that situation!” Derek says assertively.

“Derek Roman, right?” Owen replies calmly. Derek nods.

“Nice to see you looking out for your teammate but let’s get one thing clear, Derek?” Owen says anger clearly rising in his voice. “This has absolutely nothing to do with you but since you’re so interested in helping your teammate out, you can pass on a message to Zero for me so there is no confusion at all…. “I’m coming for Jude!”

[lorettaivy]

Zude Fan fiction - 'Enough'

Here is my third Fan fiction called ‘Enough’

Credit to @zude-malec for proofing and editing this for me! You’re a gem! 😘

Hope you all love it!

Loretta

Jude and Zero walk into the arena hand in hand. At first, holding hands felt strange to both men but, after some time, it became second nature, it felt safe. Jude had helped Zero deal with his past and Zero had declared his love to him publicly so nothing was off limits. It was a love they both craved and basked in. It was like their souls were destined and nothing or no one could ever change that. That being said, it didn’t mean they were immune to the challenges of feeling insecure.

Kyle comes prancing through the hallway in that Southern, Devil’s girl way she usually does. “Jude, right?” she says, coming to a holt. “The new EVP? I’ve been looking for you. Or should I call you Mr. Kinkade?”

“Jude’s fine,” he replies warmly. “Kyle, right? Devil girl?”

“You do know your people,” Kyle replies enthusiastically.

“I try to.” Jude replies with half a smile.

“I’m Zero.”

“I know who you are, boy. Christian, bad boy, and now you’re sleeping with the boss! My my, you’re a busy boy. Where do you find the time to play basketball?”

Zero gives her a half smile. He’s not entirely sure if she’s joking.

“Anywho,” she looks back over to Jude. “I just wanted to give you a message that Lionel asked me to pass on.” “Mr Whitner will be in town tomorrow to discuss the sale of the Devils and Lionel wants you to schmooze him or something like that. She emailed you the details. Bye boys!”

Kyle disappears down the corridor in the same flurry she came in. Jude watches her walk away and smiles to himself. “Owen Whitner, CEO of League Enterprises, right?” Zero asks suspiciously.

“Yeah that’s him,” Jude replies nonchalantly.

“Playboy rich kid who, along with his father, built a billion-dollar company?” Zero continues.

“So I’ve heard,” Jude replies.

“Who also happens to be an openly gay playboy rich kid!’ Zero says emphasizing the word gay.

"Calm down Zero, it’s a business meeting,” Jude replies in his calm, level-headed way.

“We use to have business meetings too, remember Jude? Some were in your bedroom. Now look at us,” Zero answers seriously.

“Goodbye Zero,” Jude kisses his boyfriend on the lips and proceeds to his office, ignoring the heated conversation which was beginning to fire up.

“See you at home,” Jude calls out as he continues to disappear down the hallway, leaving Zero standing there feeling slightly frustrated.

“Mr. Whitner,” Jude begins.

“Please call me Owen. My father is Mr. Whitner,” the devilishly handsome, well-dressed intelligent man says to Jude. “Owen,” Jude says hesitantly, “The Kinkades have owned the Devils for over 20 years and we would like for it to continue that way,” Jude says in his professional manner.

“Jude, do you always talk business?” Owen replies with an undeniable charm.

“Umm, usually, in business meetings I do.” Jude replies awkwardly, confused as to where this conversation was headed.

“There’s a bar in town I’ve heard so much about. Let’s go there tonight and we can talk more business…or not,” Owen says enthusiastically.

Zero walks into the restaurant for lunch with some of his team mates and overhears the unfolding conversation.

“Look, Mr. Whitner,” Jude begins in an increasingly uncomfortable tone.

“Owen,” he interrupts.

“Owen,” Jude shifts uncomfortably in his chair. “I would prefer to settle this today over lunch. It shouldn’t take long.”

“Tonight, Bar 9. I’ll meet you there at 8,” Owen insists. He winks at Jude. Jude becomes increasingly uncomfortable.

“Well this looks cozy,” a familiar voice echoes behind Jude.

Fuck, Jude thinks to himself, how much has he heard and how quickly will he blow this out of proportion.

“Hey Zero,” Jude quickly intercepts, standing up to greet his boyfriend. “This is Owen Whitner, the CEO….”

“I know who he is,” Zero interrupts aggressively. “Does he know who I am?” Zero says, bravado up.

Fuck, Jude thinks to himself knowing full well that Zero has heard some of the prior conversation.

“Who hasn’t? You’ve had your fair share of press haven’t you? Hardly a clean record huh, Zero,” Owen says half jokingly, but well aware he’s goading the athlete.

Zero doesn’t see the humor. Jude continues to stand with Zero. The air is rife with tension.

“Well, Zero you better get back to training,” Jude interrupts eagerly.

“Lunch break,” he replies, not breaking eye contact with Owen. “Am I interrupting something?” Zero says with contempt.

“Jude and I were just discussing plans to head to a bar tonight,” Owen says eagerly to Zero. They were similar characters, which made Jude even more nervous because of the apparent clash he could foresee happening.

Zero’s jaw clenches and with that Jude knows that Zero is seething. “For a business meeting,” Jude reiterates nervously.

“Well, I wouldn’t want to impose, so have a fucking great night together,” Zero asserts loudly and angrily.

Jude panics, Owen smiles devilishly, and Zero storms out.

“Well, that was embarrassing!” Jude says as he places his briefcase on the table after a very long, very painful day at work. “I managed to get Owen to agree to the terms of the agreement today. I think he got the point after your tantrum in the restaurant.” Jude says dryly.

Zero doesn’t reply, he continues to watch TV on the lounge in his boxers. Jude takes off his jacket and tie and sits infront of the TV on the coffee table in Zero’s line of sight.

“What was all that about today?” Jude asks calmly.

“You tell me, Jude,” Zero replies angrily.

“It was a business meet…”

“He was not talking business Jude and you know it,” Zero replies, his voice clearly latent with frustration.

“And you don’t think I could have handled him?” Jude replies frankly.

“Handled him, you seem to be basking in his attention,” Zero replies angrily jumping off the couch.

“That’s not fair,” Jude replies calmly. “He is the CEO of the League and I was trying to be polite and diffuse the situation.” Jude continues patiently. “Don’t you trust me?”

Zero turns away from Jude. His insecurities becoming more and more apparent. Jude walks over to where he is standing and turns him around to face him.

“Have I ever given you a reason not to trust me?” Jude says lovingly.

Zero stares into the distance. “He is everything you deserve,” Zero says quietly, now staring at the ground not able to make eye contact with Jude. “Why would you want someone as screwed up as me?”

Jude lifts Zero’s head and kisses him lightly on the lips. “Because you, Gideon, are the love of my life and being with you makes me the best version of myself. How could I ever want anyone else when I have you?” Jude says tenderly. “It’s you stupid, it’s always been you!”

Zero’s face softens as he hears the words seep from his boyfriend’s mouth like cleansing water.

“And to be honest, he is a self-righteous, egotistical spoiled brat!” Jude says smiling. Zero smiles too and all his fears and doubts dissipate slowly as Jude kisses his mouth and holds him close.

At that moment, he realizes, he is enough. He has always been enough.