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Their Sweet Omega 4 - Jake Jensen x Pre-serum Steve Rogers
Relationship: Jake Jensen x Pre-serum!Steve Rogers x F!Reader
Word Count: 5577 (what? 🫢)
Summary: Jake and Steve have been as unlucky in completing their pack as you've been. A 'chance' meeting might just change all that.
Warnings: omegaverse; polyamory; light angst
A/N: Some more happenings for our sweet trio who were inspired by a post from the lovely @thezombieprostitute.
A/N2: Reader has a nickname of Angel in this verse due to multiple Readers coming in later and interacting with one another.
A/N3: This part is finally here, and it's a long one. (Sorry, not sorry.) We're getting a lot of happenings in this one, but it's kinda necessary for the world as a whole and for their story (and some others that pop up here as well). I hope you enjoy the new faces you're about to meet, and all that's going on with this sweet trio.
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Jake Jensen Masterlist | Pre-serum Steve Rogers Masterlist | Series Masterlist | Verse Masterlist
"Thank you, sir," Jake said, shaking his boss's hand.
Or at least tried to.
The man had quickly made his exit from the conference room as if he wished to be anywhere but there.
Jake could well understand the sentiment, believing with all his being that this meeting could've been an email. He hadn't the slightest clue why it wasn't except that Mr. Smith, the COO of the company, had decided to join the meeting last minute. That had certainly seemed to put Jake's boss on edge.
As it was, Mr. Smith approached Jake with his hand outstretched. "Thank you for coming in, Mr. Jensen. I know it's an inconvenience during your downtime, but Mr. Pearson and I am deeply grateful."
"It's not a problem, really, Mr. Smith," Jake automatically replied.
Mr. Smith seemed amused by that. "I doubt that. How is your Beta doing? Steve, right?"
"Yes, sir. He's fine."
Jake hoped Mr. Smith wouldn't catch the lie in his words, not really wanting to go into the incident that took place while trying to get to the office. All he wanted was to end this interaction so he could get back to Steve and check on him.
A stupid argument between a young alpha and omega had resulted in a bottle of over-saturated florals being shattered on the open sidewalk just as Jake and Steve were passing. It wasn't but a minute or so later that Steve's breathing had changed, the harsh chemicals of the perfume upsetting his asthma. His inhaler had helped a little, but Jake couldn't be sure that a hospital run wouldn't be in their near future. He really hoped not, but he could never be fully sure.
Thankfully, Mr. Smith didn't bother delving further as he said, "Glad to hear it. I'll be in touch again soon. Good day to you and your Beta."
"Thank you, sir."
Mr. Smith left the conference room with Jake following shortly. He needed the extra moment to not only gather up the items his boss had requested, but he also wanted that moment to check on Steve. Pulling out his phone, he opened up his contacts until he found Steve's best friend, Bucky, and quickly typed: How's he doing?
Bucky responded back almost immediately: He's sleeping. I think the treatment he took helped. His breathing's smoother.
Jake's eyes closed upon reading that. His hands shook with relief as he typed: That's good. Meeting's done. Heading your way.
While he hurried to carry out his promise, his phone dinged with another notification from Bucky: No rush if you need to take care of some other things. He's safe here to catch up on some sleep. Looks like he could use it.
As much as Jake wanted to argue, he knew deep down that Bucky had a point. Steve always needed a bit more rest whenever his asthma acted up, and he'd been working so hard on his latest commission, not exactly taking the best care of himself. Jake had failed Steve on that score, even as he'd been a bit busy himself picking up the slack around work.
His boss wasn't a bad guy overall, but he lacked some necessary people skills for the position he held in Jake's opinion. Jake's been putting out more fires recently left in his boss's wake to keep the department from completely falling apart. A part of him knew that the others only stayed because Jake went to bat for them or picked up the slack when they couldn't.
If only his last boss hadn't been offered that cushy government position, they wouldn't be in this mess. Penelope Garcia had been a real gem of a boss, one who'd definitely helped him refine his skills to match hers. She'd also been so good at delegating work and making sure everyone was taken care of when they needed it. That had even extended to the families of her employees, even going so far as to have a real soft spot for Steve.
"What are you doing here? And why was Mr. Smith down here?" a voice called from a nearby cubicle that had been designated the weekend desk.
Jake's brows knitted at hearing her voice, turning to face the Omega. "Better question is why are you here, Ducky? Didn't you work the last three weekends? I thought I had put you on the no-contact list for the next month."
"You did, but I volunteered," Ducky shrugged though she appeared a bit out of sorts. Her scent certainly spoke to a quiet sadness that Jake didn't like coming from her. At least she gave him some clue with why with her next words. "My neighbor's in rut again. So, I've been staying with a friend. Just couldn't stay in her place alone all day, so figured I might as well work, you know?"
This news gave Jake some pause.
"I know it's not my business, but didn't he just have a rut about a month ago? That's an awfully fast turnaround for an Alpha."
Ducky nodded but then shrugged. "He's been getting them in quicker succession these last several months. Not even sure why. He's usually got his pick of omegas to help him out. All I know is that he doesn't want me around. Practically growled that at me the time before last. And, I don't know why I admitted that to you of all people. You're practically the boss around here, and now I'm sufficiently embarrassed."
Her scent made that clear, too.
Jake had some thoughts on what was going on, but he wisely kept his mouth shut. It really wasn't his place to meddle. His luck would have him screwing things up for Ducky, and that was something he couldn't do to his co-worker and friend.
So, he settled with saying, rather lamely, "I'm not the boss. Just another doing his best to keep everything running smoothly. Besides, I wanna help when and where I can. I appreciate you trust me enough to tell me."
"You should've been tapped after Ms. Garcia left," Ducky said, not the least bit repentant in her opinion even as she glanced around to make sure they were well and truly alone. "Look, he's doing his best, but you were her protege. We all knew it, and you've always been good at the logistics of this place. Hopefully, now that things have settled down with the C-suite, they'll figure it out, too, and fix this obvious mistake."
Jake nodded, unsure what there was to say.
Then again, it appeared he didn't need to as Mr. Smith appeared out of nowhere and said, "You are correct, miss. There's been an unfortunate overreach of certain personnel in the choosing of this department's current leadership. We are working to rectify that. It's why I was here for the meeting, Mr. Jensen. While I'm not privy to giving you any particulars at the moment, know that you will be looped in soon enough."
Jake and Ducky both jumped at his words, feeling equal parts horror and guilt at being caught speaking on such a topic.
The last thing Jake could afford was lose the benefits this job gave him, especially for Steve. He would never do anything to jeopardize his position, and yet, this moment felt like he'd done just that. Sure, he'd land on his feet again because he always did, but he didn't want to do that at the expense of Steve's health and well-being. He wouldn't.
"Y-yes, sir."
"I apologize, Mr. Smith. I shouldn't have spoken out of turn," Ducky rushed to say.
Mr. Smith shook his head. "No reason to apologize for speaking the truth, miss. However, I do owe you one as I overheard a conversation that you'd been making in confidence with Mr. Jensen. Mr. Pearson does have some lovely suites within the building if you have need of one. They're generally for higher-level associates, but you've been proving your worth as one of our top programmers these past several months. I can speak on Mr. Pearson's and my behalf in extending one of these suites to you whenever the need might arise."
"Oh, Mr. Smith, I couldn't possibly," Ducky said, her scent deepening with her embarrassment than it had before. "That's too much. I promise I'm perfectly fine with the situation I've managed so far."
Mr. Smith nodded. "Well, if you should change your mind, come and see my secretary or myself for a key. No questions asked."
"Thank you, Mr. Smith."
"Well, I've kept you both long enough. I shall let you both get back to your days. Miss, do ask for some paid time off soon. We don't want you overworking yourself." Mr. Smith turned to leave after Ducky nodded, but he soon stopped and glanced back, meeting Jake's gaze. "Mr. Jensen, please keep your calendar notifications on. I wouldn't want you to miss any pertinent meetings that may be happening for your department soon."
"I will, sir," Jake quickly agreed.
Once they were certain he was gone, Jake slumped into the closest chair he could find, his head falling into his free hand. From the scent Ducky gave off, she wasn't in better shape, either.
"Oh, that could've gone so badly," she mumbled after a moment, her voice as shell-shocked sounding as Jake felt. "I'm so sorry, Jake. I shouldn't have spoken as freely as I did. Please know I'd never do anything to hurt you or your Beta."
"I know you wouldn't," he breathed after another moment of calming himself down. When he could take an easier breath, he finally glanced up to find Ducky's horrified features. "It's okay, Ducky. You didn't do anything wrong. If anyone should've been paying attention, it was me. It's on me whatever happens next."
A notification dinged on his phone.
Glancing down, he read the caption from his calendar: Department Status Meeting.
His fate, it would seem, would be determined sooner than he thought.
In less than two days, he'd know whatever the future would hold for him and this department.
Even if he was forced to seek out a new job, he still had a Beta who loved him, friends and family he could count on, and the possibility of a date with a pretty Omega. He would focus on those and figure out the rest after the meeting.
*****
"I can't believe you set that up, Ran," you huffed at your best friend, "and got CK to help you out. What if it had backfired, huh? What if they'd been turned off because of your antics?"
Ransom, the proud jerk, merely shrugged. "Clark wanted to help. Besides, it didn't. They weren't. But if they had been, you would've known right then they weren't worth your time."
That had you planting your feet on the sidewalk, refusing to budge. You brought your arms up to cross over your chest and waited.
Ransom tried staring you down, but you glowered right back. He was in the wrong, and you weren't about to let him get away with it.
After several long seconds, he finally broke. "All right, I'm sorry, okay? I just want you to be happy, Angel. You're my best friend, and I don't want you wasting your time on losers. Now, can we please go and get something to eat? I really am starving here."
As if to prove his words, his stomach gave a loud grumble of protest. His hand had even come up to rest over his abdomen as if that had pained him.
Worry overrode your anger in an instant as you softly demanded, "When's the last time you ate? I mean, really ate?"
It was Ransom's turn to grow stubborn. His lips clamped shut even as his gaze turned into a warning glare.
The same warning you had little issue ignoring as you pushed, "Tell me. Please."
"It's been a couple of days," he mumbled, the words coming out as though they were painful to say, "but I'm fine. Just need to budget a bit more until I get my first paycheck at my new job. That's all."
His words made little sense to you, but you knew better than to push for more than he'd already given you.
"Okay, let's eat. Then, I'm taking you shopping for groceries. We're going to meal prep as many meals as you need until you're paid again. Got it?"
"Angel, I can't ask—"
"You're not asking," you said with such conviction that he snapped his mouth shut. When his gaze moved to avoid yours even as his cheeks heated with embarrassed shame, you closed the distance you'd placed before and rested your hand on one of his clenched fists. "Hey, there is no shame in needing help, Ran. Not with me. We may not be blood, but we are family. Family sticks together and helps each other when they can. Okay?"
His eyes still avoided you, but he nodded, his throat working. His scent had shifted from discomfort at admitting his faults to you into something a bit more hopeful. Though, that hopeful scent dimmed when he mumbled, "I'll pay you back, I swear."
You would never take his hard-earned money, but you knew he wouldn't let this go, which is why you offered, "I do have some heavier deliveries this week. I could use those strong arms of yours to help me out."
That got a small smirk out of him and a nod.
"But for now, let's get some food."
Happy to hear those words and be done with such a personal conversation, Ransom practically dragged you down the street. No doubts in your mind that he wanted to divert you and your kindness before you could confound him. It never failed to bring out his terrible upbringing as a Thrombey-Drysdale where one took and stepped on others like yourself rather than admit any sort of fault or flaw.
Not that it stopped his family from pointing out each and every one that Ransom had whenever he was near them. You'd witnessed a few of these scenes yourself and had been sickened at the sheer disdain they hold for the oldest of the Thrombey grandchildren.
You knew Ransom had his flaws and faults, but so did the rest of them, not that you'd know it with the way they acted. They sure thought of themselves as being better and perfect compared to the general public. It was no wonder why Ransom had rebuked your first offerings of friendship as children, but seeing his family, it'd also been why you kept trying until it finally stuck.
Because in your mind, you couldn't imagine a better best friend than Ransom, and you made sure he knew it, too. If he wasn't, then your family wouldn't have opened their arms to him. Instead, they'd seen the same things you had and welcomed him so freely, even when he screwed up. You weren't exactly innocent of screwing up, either. Together, you both learned what it meant to have an unbreakable bond that transcended even a blood one.
Only when your foot stumbled along a crack in the sidewalk did your thoughts turn back to your surroundings.
Ransom had already stopped you and kept you from falling, his hands having coming to rest on your hips and staying firm.
"Thanks," you said softly, happy to have a moment to catch your breath. You hadn't realized how quickly you'd been moving until that crack forced you and Ransom to slow down.
Ransom also took a deep breath before saying, "I'd never let you fall."
Before you could reply, a commotion from the nearby station caught both yours and Ransom's attention.
A group of young alphas had gathered around a lone traveler, clearly having just gotten back in town with his travel cases. In his hand, he held what looked like a trumpet case. His shoulders slumped with his exhaustion even from the distance you two stood from him. The alphas had seen his state and had decided to pounce, baiting and growing increasingly more aggressive in their advances. The way the man didn't immediately make them stand down with an alpha command proved your worst fear. The man was a Beta. He had no real way to defend himself against this group.
Ransom's scent turned dangerous as he watched the scene, spiking enough to have your nose curling. What sounded like a snarl came out of him. "Little sons of bitches need to eat shit."
"Come on, Ran," you urged, already tugging at his hand with little effort as he easily followed, "we gotta help him."
"Clark still at the bakery?" Ransom asked, his gaze still locked on the group and the Beta.
You nodded. "I'll text him."
It took you only a few seconds to shoot off the text and another for CK to answer. You grinned at his response as you murmured, "Let the chase begin."
"Get 'em, Angel. I've got the Beta."
You spared Ransom a final glance before pushing away from him. As you neared the group, you could make out the grunts of the Beta as they took a few healthy kicks at him. The Beta didn't have much longer if something wasn't done. Getting closer still, you spied the bond mark on his neck. He was claimed, and they dared to treat him like this. Didn't these young alphas know the penalties for this assault? Did they truly care as you heard some of their cruder comments tossed his way? And where was his mate? Why weren't they here to help him?
The platform was clear except for the Beta and the group of alphas.
As much as the thought disgusted you, you knew well enough the power of a possibly interested Omega to a group of young and foolish alphas like these. All you had to do was let them get a good whiff, and the chase could begin.
Finding the best vantage point was key to this. You needed a place where your scent would call to them, but one that would also allow you to make a clean break towards the bakery. CK would be your reinforcements as would Ma K if she'd made it back to the bakery. These young alphas didn't stand a chance against her and the punishment she'd have waiting for them after you explained what happened.
Sure enough, the alphas soon took notice of your scent, sniffing the air and changing course towards your location. The Beta remained curled into the tightest ball he could get, his cases broken and his belongings spread around him. As much as you wanted to forget your plan and comfort the Beta, the alphas still posed a greater threat to the Beta and yourself if they caught you.
"Alright, feet, don't let me down now," you murmured. To the alphas, you shouted, "If you think you're alpha enough, come and claim me, big boys."
You didn't wait after that to take off, sensing them behind you. A combination of their aroused scents created a reeking cloud within the alley you'd taken, a shortcut back to the bakery. You could only hope that it didn't cause any lingering effects on any omegas who might be in the area. Heats have been known to ignite instantly with such a strong level of alpha scent in the air, especially for unclaimed omegas. You could only hope it didn't have the same effect on you, much preferring the calmer tones you'd briefly scented from Jake earlier.
Thoughts of him and his sweet Beta, Steve, helped to ensure your feet flew faster. No way were you going to let these young alphas taint the promise of what you could have with a mature and caring Alpha like Jake.
The back door of the bakery was in view when the first of the young alphas managed to scrape his fingers along your shoulder.
But that was all he and the others would manage to accomplish.
CK stood off to the side as did Ma K, who had indeed made it back to the bakery. His hand shot out and swung you behind him and back on the street as he and Ma K closed ranks, trapping the young alphas in the alley.
"What do have here?" Ma K asked, censure full in her voice as she eyed them.
You gave her and CK a quick rundown between panted breaths.
"Angel, go back to Ransom. We'll get these younguns sorted. Don't you worry now," Ma K assured you, shooing you back to where you'd left Ransom and the other Beta.
Ransom met you halfway, his stomach growling louder than ever. "You okay?"
"Yeah, and the Beta?"
"He'll be fine, I think. His ride pulled up right after you took off with the alphas on your tail. They handled?"
You grinned. "Ma K has them, so yeah, they're handled. Food this time?"
"Hell yeah! Let's get there before you fall over."
A huff of laughter escaped you. "I'm a little out of practice."
"Track star out of breath?"
"Not enough that I couldn't whip your butt if I wanted to."
That earned you a grin as Ransom wrapped an arm around your shoulders and tugged you toward the restaurant you'd promised him. "I have no doubts about that, Angel. No doubts at all."
Grinning back, you couldn't help asking, "So what was the Beta's name? You ask?"
"Yeah," Ransom murmured, his cheeks growing a deep shade of red, "it's Nick."
"Nick's really cute."
"Shut up." Ransom's blossomed with more color as did the tips of his ears. "Doubt we'll be seeing him again."
"We don't know what the future holds, Ran. There was a reason we found him like that. We just don't know it yet."
*****
Steve didn't wake this time to the tickling sensation of Jake's goatee against his skin. He woke to the sound of hushed voices. Keeping still where he'd nodded off in Buckyy's office, he listened as best he could to the conversation taking place.
"Mr. Barnes, this is an opportunity I think you should consider," the stranger whispered, his accent soft yet distinguished enough. It belonged to a man who'd worked his way into higher social circles, but it spoke of a fighter as he'd clearly been arguing with Bucky about this opportunity.
"I'm fine here," Bucky retorted though his words held little conviction behind them.
Steve was well aware of the troubles that plagued Bucky after he'd been medically discharged from the military. Jobs had snubbed their noses at an alpha with an extensive injury like Bucky's. The prosthetic he used barely functioned in any way, but Bucky had persevered and learned to adapt with what he had. He wasn't a quitter, and an injury wouldn't keep him down.
"Do you truly believe that, or are you afraid of wanting more for yourself?" The man's voice softened as if in understanding of Bucky's plight. Maybe he did, but Steve didn't dare peek and find out. "I have it on good authority that the owners here are looking to lay off a great number of their employees. I've seen the list myself. You're on it, Mr. Barnes."
Bucky didn't say anything long enough that the stranger finally pushed on.
"Look, Mr. Barnes, I came here because I'm a decent talent tracker. You have a knack for security protocols and tactics that is quite unmatched in your industry. No doubt from your time with this country's military, and that is a talent that those who hired me are quite interested in. They're offering an incredible benefits and compensation package for the right candidate. I believe that candidate is you."
"And what would be your commission, Mr. Conrad, for your recruitment efforts?"
A low chuckle escaped this Mr. Conrad, almost too low for Steve to catch.
"You're perceptive, I'll give you that, Mr. Barnes. You're wrong in this case however. The company for which I'm approaching you is also my employer. They needed someone who had a knack for tracking on their payroll, and I fit their bill. Sure, I would prefer to track in the heart of jungles and such for lost souls, but a city like this one is just another type of jungle. My objective remains the same."
"And I'm a lost soul in this case?"
"Aren't we all at some point in our lives, Mr. Barnes?"
Steve heard some shifting as one of them stood, presumably Mr. Conrad.
"The offer is good for another twenty-four hours, Mr. Barnes. I hope for your sake that you'll seriously consider this offer and take it. Mr. Pearson is an employer who cares about his employees and will take care of you and your future dependents. For that, I can and will guarantee."
Footsteps took the man towards the door of Bucky's office.
"My number is at the top of your offer letter there in case you change your mind. I really hope that you do."
The door squeaked open and closed with a click, leaving the room in deafening silence that made Steve's skin itch.
"I don't have to worry about future dependents. No one wants a defective Alpha," Bucky grumbled, seemingly lost in thought.
"You can't know that, Buck," Steve said.
Bucky jumped a bit in his seat but he recovered quick enough. The grin he shot Steve was one of accepted resignation. "But I do, punk. I've been told by enough omegas at this point. Even ones I had no interest in have come up and told me as much. One even threw a drink in my face to make their point all the clearer."
"'What do you care about some bad apples?' Isn't that what you always say to Jake and me when we've had our own troubles with finding an omega? Why is it so different for you?"
Steve matched Bucky's steely gaze with a glare of his own.
Ever since his best friend had come back to civilian life, Steve had noticed the changes in him. Some were good, but a fair number of them weren't. He just didn't know what would help Bucky out of this current funk he was in or if there was a way he could help. Steve really wanted to do something. He didn't like not having a plan of attack, and this has proven quite a quagmire to wade through.
"From what you told me earlier, punk, it sounds like you and Jake may have found your Omega. Angel, was it? I'm happy for you, Stevie. I really am."
Steve wasn't sure what to say to that. He knew it to be Bucky's attempt at changing the subject. It was something that Bucky had really begun to do more of when he no longer wanted to discuss the topic at hand.
Deciding it was best not to push, Steve switched tactics and asked, "So, what's the job that Conrad guy was offering?"
Bucky's gaze went back to the paper still sitting under his hand on his desk. His eyes shifted back and forth as he read whatever the offer stated as if needing to confirm it was real.
"Buck?"
"It's actually the same company where Jake works. They're looking for a new Head of Security. Seems like the CEO is about to shake up a lot of things over there. Something about letting some things slide while he'd been contemplating selling and making things right again."
"What does that mean?"
Bucky shook his head. "Beats me. Conrad didn't go into a lot of details outside the scope of the job he was offering."
"Yeah, and what's that?" Steve asked, even as his thoughts swirled around Jake and the possibility of his Alpha losing a job he loved. Steve didn't want to think how much that would devastate Jake, especially after all Jake had done for the company.
"Seemed like they're worried about their current safety protocols in terms of letting go of problematic employees. Conrad apparently liked the strategies I've put in place here to handle similar issues."
"The same place that's going to let you go if what Conrad said was true?"
Bucky nodded. "Kinda surprised they kept me this long honestly."
"I'm not," Steve said stubbornly. "Conrad wasn't wrong about your skills, jerk, and you know it. Deep down inside, I know you do. You deserve a job that makes you happy, and you definitely deserve a family of your own."
When Bucky didn't say anything, Steve pushed ahead, adding, "You should take the job, Buck. I've met Mr. Pearson once. He does care about his employees and their families. All the big heads of the company do. Jake's old boss would send care baskets whenever she heard I wasn't well. Even at the company holiday party, she was the one who always had personalized favors for all the employees and their families. If you take their Head of Security job, you'd be able to be that change you've wanted to make here but couldn't afford to."
"Never seen you push a company this hard before, punk. Usually you're pretty anti-corporation. You starting to drink their flavored water or something?" There was a teasing lilt to Bucky's words that hadn't been there before.
Steve huffed at him. "No, I'm not. I just know what they've done for Jake and me personally. I'm a huge expense for Jake medically. It's not a secret with all that's wrong with me, but their medical benefits have seen that it's all practically covered without issue. They've also been more than generous with paid time-off for Jake when I need him with me. That's nothing to sneeze at, is it? Come on, Buck, at least tell me you'll consider it."
"Will you quit if I agree to consider it?"
A shit-eating grin spread over his lips as he countered, "I mean, I can do this all day. Wouldn't it just be better to give in and take the offer?"
Bucky shook his head, but a real smile peeked through even as he tried to hide it.
"Whatever you say, Stevie. Tell me more about this Omega, Angel. What's she like?"
Steve didn't need further encouragement to talk about you and how sweet you'd been to him and Jake.
In fact, he proved he could practically wax poetic where you were concerned, still on the topic of you when Jake showed up to collect him.
"Happy to see you feeling better, Beta," Jake said, leaning down to press a kiss to Steve's forehead before taking the space next to him. "Wanna thank Buck for watching you, so we can get out of his hair?"
"Yeah, but tell him to take the job offer he got. He's being stubborn and won't listen to me. Mr. Pearson is an excellent CEO and Bucky should work for him, right?"
Jake froze long enough for Steve to witness it before he seemed to gather himself enough to nod. His gaze turned towards Bucky as he said, "Yeah, Mr. Pearson's a good employer. He treats his employees very well. You couldn't find a better job than one in his company."
Steve didn't miss the stilted way Jake spoke, either, but he kept that to himself. At least for the moment. If there was going to be bad news for them, then he knew Jake would rather say it in the privacy of their home, not in front of others, even Bucky.
"Fine, you win, punk. I'll call Conrad after you two clear out of here. Happy now?"
Steve nodded. "Yeah, I am. Proud of you, Buck."
With Bucky's promise, Steve helped Jake gather up his few items and stored the portable treatment machine Bucky kept on-hand for him, setting it back on its dedicated shelf. It didn't take long to have everything righted and be standing at the door with his stuff collected.
"Thanks, Buck."
"Anytime, punk."
Jake shared a nod with Bucky before he led Steve out of the room and the building, their hands intertwined.
They were almost back to their place when Steve dared to ask, "Is your job in jeopardy? Bucky mentioned some things that Conrad said while I was sleeping. Said they're shaking things up over there."
"I don't know yet. I have a meeting with HR and Mr. Smith Monday morning." Jake's gaze turned to meet Steve's, conviction gleaming behind his glasses. "No matter what happens, we're going to be fine. I promise you that, Beta. For now, let's focus on things we can control like finishing up our date day. I still have dinner planned for us, and we have a date to make with Angel."
As much as Steve wanted to argue, he also knew his Alpha wouldn't budge on this, so he pivoted and nodded. "Yeah, okay, but can we take our dinner home? Kinda just wanna veg out at home after the eventful day we've already had."
"It has been pretty eventful, hasn't it?"
"Definitely crazier than normal. I hope it doesn't keep going like this."
"Me, too, Beta. Me, too."
*****
Your phone vibrated on your end table, but you didn't hear it.
After everything you'd been through that day, you'd barely made it to your sofa before sleep claimed you.
While your dreams were consumed with a certain Alpha and Beta, they, too, dreamed of you, but a small bit of niggling doubt had crept into their minds and possibly found itself a foothold.
Hi, Zombie! I’ve heard those who work in pediatrics have such busy schedules that they hardly get time for themselves until they’re home! Do you think this video matches up to Jake’s single life? Or even sometimes to now that he’s married?
Eating Habits
Note: This takes place soon after you and Jake first meet. Well before the events of the previous chapter.
Warnings: Hospital setting, Talk of food and eating habits. Please let me know if I missed any!
A/N: Reader is female. No other physical descriptors used.
You were two weeks into your pediatrics rotation and you were certain this wasn't the field for you. You'd already suspected, but these past couple of weeks really cemented it. You get why these rotations are important but really the only thing you look forward to every day is time with Jake.
Jake is one of the few male nurses in pediatrics and it really is a good fit for his personality. The kids all love him and he's so good at remembering their favorite games and cartoons. He was also strong enough to carry the kids around as needed. He was on the leaner side but it was definitely muscle. You'll never forget how he looked when he had to change scrubs. His arms had definitely made an appearance in your dreams.
If you had time you'd probably let your brain come up with a more elaborate fantasy but it was too busy with coursework and trying to internalize all the medical terminology and procedures. You knew med school was going to be tough but that still wasn't enough to prepare you for the reality of it.
One of your brief respites in the break room you saw Jake downing a few things of saltines and a small can of soda. Unable to contain your curiosity you finally broach the subject of food.
"Do you eat anything other than soda and soda crackers?"
"Of course!" he replies with a smile and mouth full of crumbs. His chugs the soda before continuing. "This stuff just gets me through the day until I can get home and calorie bomb."
"Calorie bomb?"
"Yeah. The human body needs, what? 2200 calories? Especially if you're active like I am? I have a decent sized breakfast of overnight oats and a ton of coffee, I eat saltines and soda to keep my blood sugar up, and then I get home and chug a protein shake with a couple thousand calories."
"Jake, I know I'm not a nutritionist but that doesn't sound healthy."
"It probably isn't," he concedes. "But I don't have the time for eating otherwise."
"How are you still alive?" you shake your head, aghast.
"How are you?" he counters. "Don't think I haven't noticed you drink more coffee than water and seem to survive on nothing more than the occasional granola bar."
"At least the granola bars have nutritional value!"
"As do the overnight oats!" he argues. "Let's face it, hospital life doesn't promote healthy eating habits."
You sigh, nodding in defeat at his words. He sits next to you and you have to fight the urge to lean into him. You want to be snuggled in his arms so badly but you barely know each other.
Then you get an idea.
"What if we make it a competition?" He raises an eyebrow at you. "For the rest of my rotation, we track calories and nutrition. Whoever meats their daily goals more often, wins."
"Hmmmmm. I do love a competition. What's the prize?"
"Loser has to cook for the winner?"
Jake's eyes widen at that and he sticks out his hand towards you. "Deal!"
When the last two weeks of your rotation are done you almost don't want it to be over. Pediatrics is definitely not your field, but the competition has really given you more talking time with Jake. Showing off foods to each other, making jokes about cooking and recipes.
Really, the competition wasn't just good for your physical health. Sure actually getting the food and water you needed had helped your energy levels which helped your studying and overall performance. But joking with Jake, getting a few minutes here and there to just relax, had helped your nerves, too. There were fewer headaches, your instructor even commented that you were showing more patience with the patients!
Part of you was genuinely scared that, in your next rotation, you'd end up reverting back to your bad habits. You didn't want to, but you couldn't exactly drag Jake with you to every department. And then there was your post-med school career. What if you didn't get an internship or residency at this hospital like you wanted to? Maybe Jake would be up for exchanging numbers? Emails? Something to keep helping each other?
You sit next to Jake in the break room and he gives you a half smile. "So, today's your last day here, right?" he mumbles.
"That's right. Which means it's time to look at our numbers."
"Um, right, about that..."
"Are you okay, Jake?"
"Look, um...my numbers...I just...How do I say this?"
"Did you sabotage yourself?"
"No! No, I promise. I took the competition seriously! I just...I don't want the competition to be over."
Your jaw drops at his confession. "Can...can I ask why?"
Jake's face turns a deep pink as he replies. "I've really...I mean, the food has definitely helped me out. I've got more energy for the kids, my insides are a lot more...regular, and my gaming scores are higher! And..."
"And?"
"And I like spending time with you," he mumbles so quietly you almost miss it.
Smiling you tell him, "I was hoping we could keep the competition going." His head shoots up, a look of confusion with hints of relief, on face. "This has been really good for me, too. So, regardless of who wins, who loses, maybe we can still...chat? Still compete? Still cook for each other depending on who wins or loses?"
He gifts you with the biggest smile you've ever seen from him as his shoulders relax and he shows more of his usual energy. "Thank you, so much! I was really worried you wouldn't...I mean, I know I'm a complete dork, so I wouldn't blame you if you regretted this whole thing and just wanted to be done with me."
"Jake, I honestly don't think I'll ever get tired of you."
"Can I hug you?"
"Yes, please! Then we'll check the numbers."
Jake wraps you up in a big, warm, tight embrace and, rather than feeling awkward about the touch, your body seemed to lean into it. You don't usually have the brain capacity for thinking beyond the next academic year, but a part of you thinks you'd enjoy this forever.
A/N: Written for @the-slumberparty's December Daze Challenge.
Prompt: who invited them to the holiday party?
A/N2: Reader is implied female. No other physical descriptors used.
Warnings: Hospital setting, Implied cheating, Sick kids. Let me know if I missed any!
It was pretty well known that the pediatrics ward had the best holiday party in the entire hospital. It was important for the kids and their families and all the doctors, nurses, custodial staff and volunteers did their part to make sure everyone had a fun time while also still being safe. It was always such a big event in the best ways!
Though you were a cardiologist, working in a separate wing of the hospital, you'd gotten an invite from Jake since he was a nurse in pediatrics. You knew he was quite popular amongst the kids because he'd always encourage them in their interests. He never forgot which kid was into dinosaurs, which one was a Stardew gamer, which one just liked to color. It was a priority for him. It didn't hurt that his big, strong arms were good for carrying kids around, whether for fun, emergency or comfort. He made the kids feel safe.
You finally caught sight of Jake, helping to hand out presents. The sight of him brought an immediate smile to your face. He looked so ridiculous in the elf hat, but he was owning it and the kids loved it. You decide to stand and watch him, waiting until he had a break to talk to you.
Because you were wearing your casual clothes it didn't surprise you to overhear some of the other nurses whispering about you.
"Who invited them to the holiday party?"
"Should we get someone?"
"Let me go talk to them and see what's up."
One of the nurses walks up and introduces herself as Michelle. You recognize the name from talking with Jake. She's one of the ones who's always asking him to reach stuff on the higher and lower levels while ogling him. You give her your first name and tell her you're one of the doctors from Cardiology. You show her your ticket to the party and tell her you're not in scrubs because it's supposed to be your day off.
"And you're spending it here at the hospital," she shakes her head.
"Well, it's the best, most heartwarming party in the area," you shrug.
"Is it the party or the guy?" You give her a confused look. "I saw you eyeing up Nurse Playboy."
"Nurse Playboy?"
"Yeah, it's the nickname we gave him," she explains. "He's the best at helping the kids with their playing, especially gaming during some of their treatments."
"Aww, that's so sweet! I'll bet he loves the nickname."
"Well, we haven't told him that one yet," she confesses. "It's just for those of us who want to dig our claws into that well muscled torso of his."
"Oh! Oh my!" Your eyes widen in shock at her statement. You decide to have a little fun. "I'm surprised none of you have staked a claim on him yet."
She snorts, "well, rumor has it he's married."
"Rumor?"
"He tells us and the kids he is, and he wears a couple rings on a necklace. But we're not sure."
"Not sure or just hopeful you've still got a chance?"
She chuckles at that, "probably the latter. But there's no way his wife could actually exist. The way he talks about her!"
"She exists," you nod.
"What? How do you know?"
"She works in Cardiology. Over there they call him Nurse Puppy because he follows her around like a puppy, eager for attention."
"You've gotta be kidding me," she huffs quietly.
"I can introduce you, if you'd like." She goes to say something but you don't linger.
As soon as you're within his vision, Jake lights up. "Hey beautiful! Merry Christmas!" Quickly but carefully Jake navigates his way towards you and wraps you up in a big hug before kissing you all over your face.
Several of the kids start giggling, others making "ewww!!" noises that have you laughing even harder. Part of you wants to give Michelle a gloating look, but when you're in Jake's arms, the need to be petty subsides. She can see for herself that Jake's taken.
Summary: Andy has worked hard to clean up his family's name and reputation from the damage inflicted by his father. He's currently at the stage where he needs a wife if he's to maintain his image of perfection.
A/N: Reader is female. No other physical descriptors used.
Warnings: Abusive parents, Family stress, Loss of virginity, Restrictive diet, Smut. Please let me know if I missed any!
Word Count: ~3.1k words
Previous -- Next
Part of the Royal Vows AU.
"And with all of that, I would like to request permission to marry your daughter," Andy smiles thinly at the Marquis.
"Oh of course!" the other man exclaims. "Franklin, go tell the ladies of the house to prepare a celebratory meal while work out the details."
The butler bows and leaves the two men in the Marquis' office.
"Shall we start with a drink, Your Grace?"
"We'll be family soon, please call me Andy."
The Marquis' eyes widen even as his smile turns greedy.
"Of course, Andy. Now, about that drink?"
"Please," Andy nods, smile growing slightly.
During the dinner, Andy stands and beams at you.
"I'm certain you have already guessed the purpose of my visit," he starts, a hint of pink in his cheeks. "But the formalities should be observed."
Your eyes practically sparkle at him as he walks towards you, pulling a small box of out of his pocket. When he kneels, your smile is genuine, as are the tears that start forming in the corners of your eyes. He opens the box and you see the most beautiful sapphire ring you've ever seen. Shaped just like the stars you and Andy held hands under.
"Will you marry me?" he asks.
"Of course she will!" Mother cheers behind you. "Quickly now, dear, put the ring on! Oh we simply must get photos of it!"
Andy's smile drops a smidge but yours doesn't, giving him a silent reassurance that you would have said yes if you hadn't been interrupted.
Holding out your hand, he gently takes yours in his and place the exquisite ring on your finger before kissing the back of your hand.
You're barely able to utter out a "thank you" before Mother swings you towards the table and pulls your arm to where she and Father can examine the ring. It's a painful stretch but you smile and bear it. For Andy, if nothing else.
Andy coughs to get your parents' attention and they let go of your hand.
"Now, I know I can be a stickler for tradition, but I would like to request that we speed up the engagement period?" he starts shyly. "My mother's health is fading and I would like to make sure she sees me married before she passes."
"Oh, of course!" Father declares.
"You are truly a good son," Mother adds. "Oh, but we must get to the designers quickly! Do you have a place in mind where you'd like the wedding to be?"
As the discussion continues, you keep yourself quiet, aware your input isn't wanted. But you continue to look back and forth between the ring and Andy with the brightest smile you've ever given anyone.
By the time he needs to head home for the night, all of the major details have been worked out. You're allowed to accompany Andy to his car for a moment alone together.
"Are you sure you want this, my Star?" Andy whispers. "You weren't really given an opportunity to say 'no'."
"I wouldn't have taken it," you reassure. "You are a good man who looks out for me. I would be happy to marry you."
Gently cupping your face, Andy leans in and kisses your lips. There is a tenderness you'd never expect. From what you'd been taught, a man's kisses and touches were always rough, uncomfortable, something you had to simply get used to. But the way Andy kisses you is making you want more.
"Thank you," he whispers before getting into his car.
The next month is a whirl of activity, especially for fittings. Your diet becomes as restrictive as it was before your courtship with Andy. Mother and Father are insistent that you look acceptable for the wedding photos and that means losing weight. Your stomach growls more than it used to, clearly upset at the change. But you do your best to hide it. Thankfully the assistants taking your measurements don't mention anything if they hear it.
As the wedding approaches you do feel nervous, uncertain of what to expect on the wedding night. You've had the education, but that is often very different from the experience. Or so you've heard.
It isn't until the night before the wedding that Mother talks to you about it.
"It will hurt, don't fool yourself on that," she starts. "But it only hurts bad the first time and won't be quite so bad in the future. Make sure to hide your pain well because your husband will not care for it. He needs to think he's pleasuring you. So whenever you feel the need to wince or complain, simply say 'thank you' instead. It'll do wonders for him and, quite frankly, will help him...finish quickly."
"Yes, Mother."
"And it is essential that the marriage be consummated tonight. I don't care how tired you are, how scared you are, whatever. The marriage isn't complete until he's had you. Then we will be safe. Understood?"
"Yes, Mother."
"Oh do smile more, dear," she scolds. "You're finally fulfilling your purpose and getting us a higher social status! You act like I'm the bad guy when all I've ever done is make you marriageable."
"I'm sorry, Mother."
"Ugh. Just promise me you won't be so morose in the wedding photos."
"I promise, Mother."
The wedding itself is a small ceremony. Understandable given that Andy has only a few people to attend on his side, including Earl Solo of Estetor. Though that hasn't stopped Mother and Father from making it about as gaudy as they can get away with. Even your wedding dress was a bit more showy than you'd like, but Mother insisted the blue flowers would complement the ring you now wore. You didn't correct her to tell her stars would be more apt. It was your precious secret with Andy.
The vows are recited and while Mother and Father told you not to expect him to follow through on his vows, your heart soars at the thought that he might. That when he promises to protect you, honor you, look after you, he means it as much as you do when you say your vows.
It truly warms your heart to see how happy your new Mother-in-Law is with the wedding. The woman was run ragged by life and you sympathize with Andy wanting to take care of the woman who did her best to protect him from his father. She is very loving towards you, even though you are of a lower status than her.
For his part, Andy's heart skips a beat when he first sees you in your wedding dress. He puts as much sincerity into his vows as he can muster. He's even able to keep his smile genuine through the family photoshoots, especially with you and his mother hugging.
That doesn't stop him from rushing the reception a bit, though. Thankfully Napoleon is playing his part well and minds that your parents aren't suspicious about the quick departure. It'll likely be played off as a new husband eager to enjoy his new bride. In truth, he wants to get you to your new home where you'll never be hurt by those cruel people ever again.
As Andy walks you into your new home you're stomach is fluttering. You're nervous, scared even, but you're eager to be with someone who makes you feel in ways you had never dared hope.
"I know that...there are...expectations," Andy hesitates as he leads you to what you assume is the bedroom. "But this was also a very...rushed courtship. I never want to make you uncomfortable so, if you're not yet ready to share a bed, I understand and I can use a guestroom in the meantime."
"What?" you gasp, heart dropping. "But...but that would mean...No, Andy, we have to...to do...to consummate. Otherwise the marriage isn't..."
"Isn't what, Star?" he gently encourages as he caresses your cheek. "Isn't real? The vows and paperwork did that. Sex is not a requirement."
"But...it is! I can't...I have to. We have to." The panic rising in your chest is making it difficult to find the words.
Carefully Andy holds your face so you have to keep looking at him. His sapphire eyes are soft, worried and calming.
"Breathe, please. What were you told about tonight? About what you were...obligated to do?"
Though your cheeks are on fire as you tell Andy what was conveyed to you, the concern in his eyes never fades. Even as the tears start forming in your eyes out of desperation to appease, he never looks at you with disdain like others do. He carefully brushes the tears away and his eyes never stop looking worried for you.
"And in spite of the promises of pain and discomfort, you still want to go through with it?" he comments.
"I have to," you say, though the shakiness in your voice says otherwise.
"You don't," he replies, gently shaking his head. "But I see you're not going to be able to rest, are you?"
"I'm sorry," you whimper.
"Don't be," he pleads. "It isn't your fault. I truly am willing to wait until you feel you are ready, that you're not just doing this out of obligation."
"I want to be with you, Andy. I can promise you that."
His breath hitches at the declaration and he starts stroking your hair.
"Can you also promise me that you will tell me if I'm hurting you?" he responds. "I never want to hurt you, Star. In any way. So please, please promise me you will tell me if you're hurting, especially if I'm the one doing it?"
His pleas are at odds with what Mother told you and your brain needs to buffer for a few moments. But you can trust Andy, right? In less than a year he's already shown you more care than your parents have in your entire life.
"I promise," you whisper.
Andy's lips find yours and his kiss is full of need, hunger. It's almost overwhelming but he pulls back when he feels your body start to go rigid.
"Will you do me the honor of joining me?" he breathes, gesturing to the door to the bedroom.
"Yes."
When you cross the threshold, Andy quickly gets to work helping you take off your clothing. As your clothes get removed, Andy covers your skin with kisses. It tickles in a way you can't describe, but it's the kind of tickle you don't want to stop. Despite your nakedness, he's making you feel warm all over, especially as his hands carefully caress you.
"Please sit?" he gestures to the bed.
It feels odd, like you should be embarrassed, but you do as he asks. He kneels at your feet and removes your shoes, his eyes taking in every inch of your beauty. Feeling shy, you cross your arms to hide your chest but he gently tugs at one arm with a "please?" and you lower them.
When you are completely naked, Andy, still on his knees, moves as close to you as he can get. He starts kissing your lips as his hands fondle your breasts. Your breathing becomes shallow as you feel your body reacting to him. As he makes you feel good.
He goes to break the kiss but your hands instinctively shoot out to bring him back to you. He groans as you return his kisses with fervor and his hands lower to your hips.
"I'm sorry," you gasp, letting go of him. "I didn't mean to overstep."
"You didn't," he promises, as his hands start kneading. "You can touch me however you want or need."
"Okay," you whimper before running your fingers through his hair. His eyes close and he groans in pleasure, leaning into your touch. You feel giddy for having such an effect on him.
"Will you spread your legs for me?" he moans.
"Y-yes."
Following his request, you part your knees, exposing your core. Again, you know you should be shy, but Andy's kisses and touches are making you feel so good.
He starts kissing down your front. You squeak in surprise, but it quickly turns into a moan when his mouth latches onto one of your nipples. One of his hands moves from your hips to your inner thigh and your moans turn shaky. His mouth moves to your other nipple as his hand moves to cup your pussy.
"So warm," he moans. He sticks a finger inside you, making you gasp. "So wet," he groans.
"Is...is that good?"
"So good," he moans as he starts kissing down your belly.
His face moves between your legs and your cheeks burn as Andy hums and starts licking at your pearl. But it also feels so good. Especially when he starts moving his finger in and out of you.
"Oh!" you breathe.
Andy freezes. "Are you okay? Is this too much? Am I hurting you?"
"No, no, no," you shake your head. "Please, it felt good! Please do that again!"
His features soften even as his eyes seem to darken. You don't have time to think about it before he resumes and your brain can't think beyond the new pleasures you're feeling. He remains gentle, even as he feels more enthusiastic.
Andy yearns to do more but he knows you need him to be gentle. He needs you to know that you can expect pleasure, not pain. That you don't have to suffer for him. He's so hard he's hurting, but he needs to worship at your altar before he can be allowed to relieve his own pain.
You find yourself leaning back on your elbows, opening yourself up even more to him. You feel a pressure building and only his touch can bring you relief. He starts alternating licking and sucking on your pearl and you can't help the noises that escape you. Part of you feels ashamed to be making such unladylike noises but most of your brain is distracted by Andy.
Andy's hand picks up speed and you keen as he adds a second finger. Mentally he begs for you to let go for him. To give him what he needs.
"Please, please, please," you chant as you feel the pressure inside you reaching a precipice. His other hand starts fondling your breast. Kneading, pinching, adding to the pleasure.
Your orgasm hits you like a shockwave and spreads throughout your body. Your toes curl as your fingers grip the blankets and your hips move of their own accord. Your pussy squeezes Andy's fingers so tight he groans and the vibrations prolong your pleasure.
He wants to keep going but he doesn't want to overwhelm you. Instead he slows down, eventually stopping as you come down from your high.
"Are you okay?" he rasps. "Do you need to stop here?"
"B-but you..."
"I told you before, I'm willing to wait until you're ready."
"I am ready," you insist. "Please?"
"Okay," Andy nods, steadying himself. "Just remember your promise."
He stands up and starts undressing, eyes roaming your body. With how hungry he looks, part of you is grateful for the near starvation rations. Surely he wouldn't be as interested if you'd kept the weight. But that's all the more reason to make sure he doesn't have to wait for you. The marriage needs to be consummated so he'll be sure to keep you.
Your breathing is shallow when Andy is fully naked in front of you. As good as he's making you feel, you're still on edge, waiting for the pain. Sure, he told he doesn't want to hurt you, but given that he's still willing to do this, you're not sure how much of that you can believe.
Carefully he starts rubbing his erection along your slit, lubing himself as much as he can before lining himself up with your entrance.
As he starts pushing in, you brace yourself for the searing pain you were warned about. Andy can see it in the way your jaw is set. One of his hands moves to your pearl and you gasp, eyes opening wide. He keeps his fingers moving as he pushes in further. He needs this to be good for you. He needs you to feel only pleasure.
And pleasure is definitely taking over your mind. The penetration feels strange, and there is a stretch that could turn painful, but it's not the promised torture. It's practically heavenly, especially as Andy's hands keep kneading and playing your body.
When he's fully sheathed, he wraps your legs around his waist and leans over you, kissing everywhere his lip can reach.
"Are you doing okay?" he breathes.
"Y-y-yeah," you stutter out, brain struggling to solve the puzzle of the lack of pain while delighting in the ecstasy you're feeling.
Andy starts moving his hips and his mouth latches on to your nipple. He groans when the walls of your pussy clench around him in response. He knows he won't last long with how good you're making him feel. He can't hold back as much as he wants to for your sake.
But you're not complaining, and not just because you were taught not to. Seeing Andy, normally so buttoned up and restrained, come apart is thrilling, intoxicating even. Your hands reach out and start running your fingers through his hair, making him speed up. You could swear he even whimpered at your touch but you're too distracted by rapidly building pressure you feel.
"Andy," you moan again and again until another orgasm hits you.
His hips stutter as he cries out in pleasure.
For a minute, the two of you just lay there, limbs wrapped around each other. You're not sure what's expected of you now. You've heard so many stories of the man rolling over and falling asleep. But they also promised pain that you never received. All you can think to do is continue running your fingers through his hair until he tells you otherwise.
"Are you okay?" Andy asks, coming to his senses. "Are you hurting? Do you need me to get off of you? Do you need a bath? Anything?"
His obvious concern paired with the highs you've just experienced leave you in tears. Andy is scared he did something wrong, but you're smiling.
Dog shifter!Jake Jensen x female reader (nicknamed Birdie)
<- Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 -> | Series Masterlist
Not beta'd. I do not give permission for my work to be reposted, copied, translated or put through an AI machine. all my work is 18+. Headers and dividers made in Canva with pics from Pinterest (credit to OG creators).
Tags/Warnings: Fluff, mentions of abuse/trauma
Summary: You and Jake enjoy eachother's company and get to know eachother properly.
Word Count: 1.7k
Being around you in his human form was far stranger than being around you in dog form. Jake had become so used to your affection and attention, that he'd almost forgotten how to act like a normal, functioning human.
He followed you from room to room chatting away, until he'd almost followed you into the bathroom, and he'd sheepishly taken himself back downstairs to wait for you on the sofa. You seemed just as happy as he was to actually be able to finally speak to someone because when you came back down the stairs, you teased him about the same amount of excitable as he was in dog-form.
Although, you didn't seem too put-out by this.
He couldn't believe that he was so lucky, neither could you, really; to have found a friend in such a difficult time was truly, by all means, a stroke of luck. He both loved and hated the fact you were so kind and understanding. Occaisionally, when you'd smile at him, flashes of your beaten face would cross his mind; and he'd have to suppress an audible growl at the thought of you showing that monster who harmed you any kindness at all.
When you'd suggested watching a movie he didn't know what to do. He suddenly felt like a teenager around his crush - albeit that you were a little fuzzy thanks to the lack of glasses. It felt strange not being cuddled close to you while watching the movie; without your hand raking along his head and hitting that sweet spot behind his ears.
But how do you even tell someone that?
About half-way through a very straight-backed watch, you clear your throat. All Jake can see from this distance is a pink smudge but he can sense your nerves from a mile away.
"You okay?"
"Mmhmm." You hum, strained before sighing. "This is going to sound so weird."
"Weirder than me being a shifter?" Jake jokes, hoping it eases your nerves and he's pleased to see that you smile.
"Hmm. Maybe." You say shyly. "Could I... run my fingers through you hair?" You rush out the words, unable to meet his eyes, but when you do, you bluster; and he's completely unaware that his jaw is hanging open. "Forget it!" You squeak and face the TV, wrapping your arms around your knees and angling ever so slightly away from him.
"I- N-no. It's fine! I swear! Um," Jake scratches his cheek. "You want me to shift back or-"
You shake your head. "No. Forget it. That was weird. I'm sorry." You hold your breath for a moment before releasing a quiet sigh. "It's just... before it made me feel calm."
Jake hums and quietly shuffles closer to you. "Try it."
"What?" You look like Bambi stuck in headlights, big round eyes watching him. "No, I-"
"If it helps," Jake says with a reassuring smile. "Then it helps. If it doesn't - we forget it ever happened."
You make an unsure sound in the back of your throat before looking away as you tentatively reach for him. How could anyone hurt you? He can smell how nervous you are to touch him but there's a small scent of something else... He wants to reassure you more, but that scent makes the words catch in his throat. It smells like lightning in an old bottle; begging to be released.
Excitement.
If he wasn't careful his tail may pop out- and that would be embarassing. Your excitement feeds his own and he struggles to keep his breathing steady as your hand glides through his hair. His eyes flutter and he forces a slow breath as your nails gently curl against his scalp. How the hell does this feel so good as a human too?
You repeat the motion; still soft, still caring. Jake leans into your touch subconsciously, relaxing quicker by the second as the scent of your nervousness dissipates to contentment.
"Is this okay?" You murmur. He can feel your eyes watching him for signs of discomfort. He knows you won't find any.
"Feels go-od." Jake affirms, voice cracking ever so slightly.
"You can tell me if it doesn't." Your voice is still quiet but you don't stop.
"I know." Jake reassures you but when you hit a particular spot, near the back of his ears, his shoulders drop and he loses composure. "But it- ooooh-"
He half-falls onto you; following your hand as you continue to scratch that perfect spot. You smell amazing too; fresh but with a hint of delicate spice that amplifies your warmth. You smell safe.
It isn't until you giggle, that Jake realises he's almost completely on top of you.
"Oh my God," Jake flushes, attempting to sit up off of you. "I'm so sorry. I-"
"It's okay." You laugh - soft and sweet. "I don't mind."
Jake tentatively leans back into you, and you gently start raking your fingers through his hair again; making sure to focus on the spot that made him melt.
At some point during the day, one movie became a movie marathon. A collection of feel-good, cartoony classics; ones you and Jake had seen before. Jake hopped up occaisonally, insistent on bringing you every snack and/or drink you idly thought of - your only reprieve of him happening when you had to go pee.
Every time you sat back down, as if it were natural, you'd open your arms to him and he'd happily re-take his place while you played with his hair. You'd grown mostly accustomed to him being around in human form and his dog-like tendencies were more cute than weird.
By nightfall, when you were thoroughly stuffed from a day of snacking, you had realised that - not only had you willingly cuddled a human male all day - but that you had never felt more relaxed.
You twirl a lock of Jake's hair as the next movie begins thoughtfully. Three months ago, on the worst night of your life, you had sworn off men for the foreseeable future. Though, Jake wasn't technically just a man. Or human.
It was strange to say the least. You had always been a firm believer that an animal's eyes never lie - and it seemed Jake was proof of that. You had never felt safer than you did in this moment; not even when you were surrounded by police officers. Perhaps it was fate, or karma, or sheer dumb luck that you found eachother. However, you couldn't help but feel sad knowing that your time together was most likely limited.
What would happen when your case was closed? If you got to court that is. That would be years. Jake had a family. Friends.
Part of the condition of your protection was your family didn't know where you were... and after being isolated for so long, you didn't think you had anyone left to call a friend.
"You okay?"
You look down at Jake, who's big blue eyes look worriedly up at you.
"Fine." You murmur. "Why?"
He smiles sheepishly, and taps his ears. "Shifter hearing, remember? I can hear your heart racing."
"Ah." You smile, knowing you're beat. "That got old quick."
Jake chuckles. "I know. Sorry. If you don't wanna tell me you don't have to. So long as you're good."
"I'm good." You affirm, and then add. "Better than good, actually. I feel... relaxed."
"Good." Jake grins. "I do too. It's nice being able to be, well, me."
"Yeah, that-" you blink at him, half-incredulous you're now realising you feel the same way. "That's how I feel too."
It feels like a physical crackle in the air. A subtle shift in tension as you both look at eachother, admitting easily how you truly feel. You don't know if for Jake it feels the same as it does for you - no weight of secrets, no worry of repurcussion. Just simple, honest truth that, in a way, is almost child-like.
Unfortunately, you shy away from it. Unready for complex feelings. The man was your dog. Literally. And there was no guarantee that he would be staying - so there would be no point in wondering about naieve what ifs. And also he was your dog.
You clear your throat, eager to change subject, well aware your heart was beating faster now. "D'you like having belly rubs?"
Your cheeks burn as you rush the question out, regretting it immediately. Jake's eyes grow wide and he blushes, stammering out an awkward half-curated response.
"I- um- no? I mean, yes but I've never - no one has-"
He swallows - opting to stop talking. Something you wished you had the braincells to do. You nod in faux understanding like he had given you a real answer.
"I just thought I'd ask since, you know-"
"I'm a dog?"
"Is that-" You grimace, hoping you pick the right word. "species-ist?"
A laugh bubbles from Jake and he shifts his long legs, adjusting himself in your lap. "No. I don't think so? I've never been asked before."
"It... may have been on my mind." You admit. Among other things.
"I'll answer as best I can." Jake says, rather energetically. "I don't know much outside my own experience though."
"I just thought since you liked head scratches in the same spot." You shrug, grazing the aforementioned spot again. "You might like other things you liked as a dog too."
Jake hums. Half thoughtful, half content. "If you mean stuff like sniffing butts- no, I do not."
You giggle at that. "I'm glad. But no tummy rubs?"
"No one's ever really given me any as a human." Jake admits cheeks beginning to glow again.
You want to offer them up but a wave of bashfulness and sudden need for propriety, stop you. But you file the information away for a later date. Probably.
"Hm." You say. "I'm surprised."
"Surprised?"
"A guy like you with no girlfriend? Or boyfriend," you add quickly.
"Nah, no girlfriends for me." Jake says. "Not for lack of trying."
"Really?" You can't keep the surprise out of your voice and immediately apologise.
"Really really." Jake says unperturbed, with a big smile. "Never knew who could accept all of this."
He gestures to himself, comically proud of his lean frame. "And the whole shifter thing."
Your knuckles rake against his scalp, and you stare at nothing in particular when you say your sage reply; "It's not the worst thing you could be."
END
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You better believe Jake is gonna love belly rubs! Just like he melts when you scritch that spot, he's gonna be moaning and groaning at getting belly rubs! 🤭
And seriously, one of the things I love about Jake is how relaxed you can be around him. He's just so happy to be with you!
I absolutely love the different dog habits you've given him, too! Following her around everywhere is required of all puppies! 🤣
Warnings: Implied violence. Please let me know if I missed any!
A/N: Holy shnikes, I've been writing Tech Tuesday for an entire year without skipping a week! Sure, I've had to fudge a few things, but I've been consistent! I'm kinda proud of myself for that!
Tech Tuesdays Masterlist
Ari Levinson (CEO)
"So it's a deal?" Ari smirks across the table at Tony Stark.
"It was a deal three days ago," Tony huffs.
"No, that was still negotiation," Ari counters. "Your 'deal' wouldn't have been enough compensation for the prioritization."
"You're lucky your company provides the best of the best when it comes to user friendly design," Tony grumbles, taking a sip of bourbon. "If people were smarter, I wouldn't need so much help translating my genius."
"Nor would you need to pay so much for us to prioritize your work over that of others," Ari purrs.
"I'm certain the money will be put to good use getting you a second house or something."
"Not a chance," Ari scoffs. Tony's eyebrows raise in surprise so he explains, "you know why my company is the best at what it does? It's because I make sure my employees are happy. Happy employees are loyal employees. Dedicated employees. With the money we're getting from this deal? We're either hiring some new people to ease workloads or giving everyone a nice bonus. Maybe a combination."
"Huh," Tony replies, stunned at the other man's response. "My dad coulda learned a thing or two from you."
Ari laughs at that before raising his glass. "To learning from mistakes."
"I can't raise my glass to that," Tony shakes his head. "I never actually learn."
Natasha Romanov (Head of HR) & Nick Fowler (Private Investigator)
Nick feels the air knocked out of his lungs as he hits the mat. While the life of a PI wasn't as exciting as the movies often make it out to be, regular sparring sessions were good for keeping his skills sharp.
Or they would be if his sparring partner wasn't also former CIA and in much better shape.
"C'mon Fowler. You've gone soft on me," Nat smirks.
"Yeah," he wheezes.
"Must be that new girlfriend of yours. She's keeping you so well fed you're becoming docile."
"You say that like it's a bad thing," he blushes.
She shrugs before helping him up.
"So what's the job?" Nick grunts.
"What makes you think this isn't just a workout?"
"You're being extra nice," he replies. "If it was 'just a workout' you wouldn't have helped me up."
"Maybe I feel bad for you." Nick raises an eyebrow in disbelief. "Okay, okay. I've gotten a couple of weird phone calls asking after one of our employees, Johnny Storm, and I'm worried he's in really big trouble."
"Can you define 'weird'?"
"I recognized one of the phone numbers from my CIA days."
"That is weird," he concedes. "Give me the number and I'll look into it after my date tonight."
"No, you'll look into it tomorrow," Nat smirks. "I'm not keeping your girl from getting some action."
Nick blushes as he heads to the locker-room to clean up.
Sam Wilson (CFO)
As Sam waits for his date to come back from the ladies' room, his meal is interrupted by a woman he wishes he didn't recognize.
"Linda Drysdale," he snorts.
"Well I should hope you know me," she snaps back. "I've been sending you a very high number of offers to buy your company."
"You've sent so many we're having legal look into harassment charges," he shoots back. "The company ain't for sale. You need to get that through your thick skull."
"Oh come on," Linda rolls her eyes. "Everyone has a price. I just haven't found the right one for you and Levinson."
"And you never will."
"Your company isn't making a lot of profit. I've seen the receipts."
Sam smirks and raises an eyebrow. If she's fishing for information on the rumors of the Stark deal, she'll have to look elsewhere. And the fact that she conflates "profit" with "revenue" is very revealing.
"Alright fine," she sighs, shoulders dropping. "In truth...The truth is..." she sniffles, but Sam doesn't react. "I just miss my son so much," she cries. "I've tried to get guest passes into the building, but they've all been declined. I don't know where he lives because he takes the bus! And I just..." Linda sobs into a napkin she took from Sam's table.
"Really Linda? You're trying to use crocodile tears on me?" he gibes.
Linda's shoulders stop shaking and she angrily throws the napkin back on the table.
"Well excuse me for being a concerned mother!"
"If you were actually concerned about your son, you'd accept that he's alive and leave him be until he's ready to talk," Sam argues. "As it is, if I see you again, I will be filing charges and you will be banned from the premises."
Linda glares at him, but Sam doesn't back down.
"Now, if you don't leave and let me get back to my meal, I will have the maître d' escort you outta here."
As Linda storms out, Sam's date returns to the table and he stands to greet her and pull her chair out for her.
They're truly looking out for their people 🥹🥰 each in their own ways! I'm glad Ari invests in them and their well being! And Nat being concerned for Johnny is really heartwarming 🥹
Oh and Sam! He so elegantly dealt with Linda 🤭 poor Ran having to take the bus instead of his beloved beemer 😭 maybe one day he'll get it back
Yes! Ari made sure to hire people who would look out for the company and its people (possible exception Lloyd as head of Legal, but he learned to make it a challenge Lloyd couldn't resist).
Warnings: Implied violence. Please let me know if I missed any!
A/N: Holy shnikes, I've been writing Tech Tuesday for an entire year without skipping a week! Sure, I've had to fudge a few things, but I've been consistent! I'm kinda proud of myself for that!
Tech Tuesdays Masterlist
Ari Levinson (CEO)
"So it's a deal?" Ari smirks across the table at Tony Stark.
"It was a deal three days ago," Tony huffs.
"No, that was still negotiation," Ari counters. "Your 'deal' wouldn't have been enough compensation for the prioritization."
"You're lucky your company provides the best of the best when it comes to user friendly design," Tony grumbles, taking a sip of bourbon. "If people were smarter, I wouldn't need so much help translating my genius."
"Nor would you need to pay so much for us to prioritize your work over that of others," Ari purrs.
"I'm certain the money will be put to good use getting you a second house or something."
"Not a chance," Ari scoffs. Tony's eyebrows raise in surprise so he explains, "you know why my company is the best at what it does? It's because I make sure my employees are happy. Happy employees are loyal employees. Dedicated employees. With the money we're getting from this deal? We're either hiring some new people to ease workloads or giving everyone a nice bonus. Maybe a combination."
"Huh," Tony replies, stunned at the other man's response. "My dad coulda learned a thing or two from you."
Ari laughs at that before raising his glass. "To learning from mistakes."
"I can't raise my glass to that," Tony shakes his head. "I never actually learn."
Natasha Romanov (Head of HR) & Nick Fowler (Private Investigator)
Nick feels the air knocked out of his lungs as he hits the mat. While the life of a PI wasn't as exciting as the movies often make it out to be, regular sparring sessions were good for keeping his skills sharp.
Or they would be if his sparring partner wasn't also former CIA and in much better shape.
"C'mon Fowler. You've gone soft on me," Nat smirks.
"Yeah," he wheezes.
"Must be that new girlfriend of yours. She's keeping you so well fed you're becoming docile."
"You say that like it's a bad thing," he blushes.
She shrugs before helping him up.
"So what's the job?" Nick grunts.
"What makes you think this isn't just a workout?"
"You're being extra nice," he replies. "If it was 'just a workout' you wouldn't have helped me up."
"Maybe I feel bad for you." Nick raises an eyebrow in disbelief. "Okay, okay. I've gotten a couple of weird phone calls asking after one of our employees, Johnny Storm, and I'm worried he's in really big trouble."
"Can you define 'weird'?"
"I recognized one of the phone numbers from my CIA days."
"That is weird," he concedes. "Give me the number and I'll look into it after my date tonight."
"No, you'll look into it tomorrow," Nat smirks. "I'm not keeping your girl from getting some action."
Nick blushes as he heads to the locker-room to clean up.
Sam Wilson (CFO)
As Sam waits for his date to come back from the ladies' room, his meal is interrupted by a woman he wishes he didn't recognize.
"Linda Drysdale," he snorts.
"Well I should hope you know me," she snaps back. "I've been sending you a very high number of offers to buy your company."
"You've sent so many we're having legal look into harassment charges," he shoots back. "The company ain't for sale. You need to get that through your thick skull."
"Oh come on," Linda rolls her eyes. "Everyone has a price. I just haven't found the right one for you and Levinson."
"And you never will."
"Your company isn't making a lot of profit. I've seen the receipts."
Sam smirks and raises an eyebrow. If she's fishing for information on the rumors of the Stark deal, she'll have to look elsewhere. And the fact that she conflates "profit" with "revenue" is very revealing.
"Alright fine," she sighs, shoulders dropping. "In truth...The truth is..." she sniffles, but Sam doesn't react. "I just miss my son so much," she cries. "I've tried to get guest passes into the building, but they've all been declined. I don't know where he lives because he takes the bus! And I just..." Linda sobs into a napkin she took from Sam's table.
"Really Linda? You're trying to use crocodile tears on me?" he gibes.
Linda's shoulders stop shaking and she angrily throws the napkin back on the table.
"Well excuse me for being a concerned mother!"
"If you were actually concerned about your son, you'd accept that he's alive and leave him be until he's ready to talk," Sam argues. "As it is, if I see you again, I will be filing charges and you will be banned from the premises."
Linda glares at him, but Sam doesn't back down.
"Now, if you don't leave and let me get back to my meal, I will have the maître d' escort you outta here."
As Linda storms out, Sam's date returns to the table and he stands to greet her and pull her chair out for her.
some people don’t deserve fanfics, much less for free.
also even if authors didn’t tag any specific warnings but they used the “creator chose not to use archive warnings” tag, then that is your warning.
“omg you should’ve —” no one forced your entitled ass to read anything. fanfic writers write for themselves and their own enjoyment. if you don’t like what you’re reading, quietly leave. ao3 is not an airport. no one cares about your departure so no need to announce it.
Something neuroscience-y that helps with prose: attention is selective. A character will not notice everything in a room. They will notice what matters to their goal, fear, desire, training, wound, or obsession. A jealous character notices hands. a hungry character notices food. A soldier notices exits. A lonely character notices pairs. Description becomes character when attention has a bias.
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