𝘿𝙚𝙢𝙞𝙇𝙪𝙠𝙚

⊹ ࣪ ˖Luke Hemmings ⊹ ࣪ ˖

﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌

˖ ࣪ Fanfics⊹ ࣪ ݁˖

⤷ ゛BLUE LOOKS RED NOWˎˊ˗

˖ ࣪ Headcanons⊹ ࣪ ݁˖

⤷ ゛Anatomy of insomniaˎˊ˗

⤷ ゛YOUNGBLOOD LASHTON HCS ˎˊ˗

˖ ࣪ AUs⊹ ࣪ ݁˖

⤷ ゛MAD HATTERˎˊ˗

⊹ ࣪ ˖Michael Clifford⊹ ࣪ ˖

﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌

˖ ࣪ Fanfics⊹ ࣪ ݁˖

⤷ ゛BED. GAMES. ICE CREAM. (Smut!) ˎˊ˗

˖ ࣪ Headcanons⊹ ࣪ ݁˖

⤷ ゛ ˎˊ˗

˖ ࣪ AUs⊹ ࣪ ݁˖

⤷ ゛KING OF HEARTSˎˊ˗

⤷ ゛CASTLES & REGRETSˎˊ˗

⊹ ࣪ ˖Ashton Irwin ⊹ ࣪ ˖

﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌

˖ ࣪ Fanfics⊹ ࣪ ݁˖

⤷ ゛CLOSER, DARLING ˎˊ˗

⤷ ゛SWALLOW ME DOWN- (Cashton x reader smut!) ˎˊ˗

˖ ࣪ Headcanons⊹ ࣪ ݁˖

⤷ ゛YOUNGBLOOD LASHTON HCS ˎˊ˗

˖ ࣪ AUs⊹ ࣪ ݁˖

⤷ ゛ ˎˊ˗

⊹ ࣪ ˖Calum Hood ⊹ ࣪ ˖

﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌﹌

˖ ࣪ Fanfics⊹ ࣪ ݁˖

⤷゛ALL MY AFFECTION ˎˊ˗

⤷ ゛PRETTY QUIET (Smut!)ˎˊ˗

⤷ ゛ BABYDOLL (Smut!)ˎˊ˗

⤷ ゛SWALLOW ME DOWN- (Cashton x reader smut!) ˎˊ˗

˖ ࣪ Headcanons⊹ ࣪ ݁˖

⤷ ゛ ˎˊ˗

˖ ࣪ AUs⊹ ࣪ ݁˖

⤷ ゛ ˎˊ˗

E𝙭𝙩𝙧𝙖𝙨 ֹ ₊ ꒱

Soon .ᐟ

That day you were sitting on the sofa in Calum's home studio, the band was discussing the songs for the new album, the production, but for you it was all like "blah, blah, blah", they weren't even singing or playing instruments, they were just talking about technical stuff, but you couldn't stop thinking about one thing that had been left unfinished.

You knew it wasn't just in your imagination, Calum had accompanied you on your previous outings with Ashton. It didn't bother you, Calum was nice and treated you both well, maybe too well. Occasionally you get closer, during sleepless nights or drunken revelries, there was a certain comfort in sharing.

You were together, it was impossible for them to ignore you like that, and yet no one seemed to even notice you were in the room today.

During one of the breaks, you took advantage of Luke and Michael having gone out to get water in the kitchen to approach Ashton.

"Hey, are you guys almost finished? I want to go home soon..." Your little smile might have seemed naive, but Ashton knew very well the suggestive look you had at that moment while you were playing with his hand.

"We're still working some things out, honey, we'll talk in a bit." He gently withdrew his hand, he didn't want to be rude to you, but he couldn't give you the attention you wanted.

"C'mon, don't leave me like this," you said, immediately taking his hand again and placing it on your cheek. You were burning up, but even that didn't change Ashton's mind.

Ash just gave you a smile like "Aw, what a shame", gently pinched your cheek and turned his back to go back to work.

That was... humiliating.

Your face turned red with embarrassment as you tried hard not to pout.

But you didn't give up, you turned towards Calum who was sitting nearby, looking at him to see if he had also seen what Ashton did to you. He glanced at it briefly and shook his head, amused by the situation. You complained while resting your head on his shoulder, with that victim look that always worked to get him to share his unfinished smoothie with you, but this time it was different. It was a request to do what Ashton didn't want. Nothing new.

"Put those paws away, you're not going to convince me." Cal whispered so only you could hear.

"But Ashton..."

"I'm serious, not now, kitten." His tone was still a whisper, but it felt more like a gentle scolding, and you didn't like it at all.

You tried to stay a little longer, but it was unbearable that neither of them loved you as much as you loved them at that moment.

Before you felt worse, you decided to get up from the sofa and leave the room. You knew every hallway in that house like the back of your hand, you had been there even in the dead of night, you didn't need any help finding the guest room. You slammed the door hard like a tantrum-throwing teenager and maybe you couldn't scream or get angry at someone, but you threw your bag hard on the bed, a couple of lipsticks, your headphones and your phone scattered across the sheets.

"Ugh, shit!" You were desperate, it had been a shitty day, and your own boyfriend had made you feel left out not even Calum did better.

You threw yourself onto the bed and in a bad mood began to put things back in your bag, the sound of objects hitting the leather stopped when you touched something at the bottom.

Out of curiosity, you took it out.

It was a vibrator about the size of your hand. You hadn't planned on using it at first, but the wait was agonizing. You knew Ashton would be a while, but you couldn't stand it anymore, so you just pulled your pants down to your knees and placed it over your panties. When you turned it on a sigh mixed with a moan escaped your lips, but you needed more. You removed your underwear, pressed the vibrator further in, squeezing your thighs together to feel it a little.

After a while, Ashton and Calum said goodbye to Luke and Michael in front of the house. It was starting to get dark and everyone had their own things to do. The sound of their cars leaving the house disappeared in a couple of minutes.

Only Calum, Ashton, and you remained. They both walked calmly down the hallway, messing with each other.

"That song was awful, no offense. But next time I'll put you on time out." Ash said, giggling, after giving Calum a light punch on the shoulder.

"What do you mean? You can't put me in time out, idiot" He pretended to be offended, making his usual exaggerated faces with no real substance.

There was an odd, different silence. "Can't I?" Ashton's question was lower than usual, he was looking directly at Cal. It wasn't rhetorical, but intimate, almost confidential.

Calum tried to keep the tone light, but he was failing; it was obvious who was in control. "No... you can't." His smile faltered as his gaze focused more intently on Ash's eyes.

"Seriously...?" Ashton's hands rested on his shoulders, gently pushing him against the wall of the dark hallway "...'cause that's not what you told me the other night." Ash was testing his limits, breathing so close to Calum's mouth. It wasn't long before he let out a laugh at the blush on his "best friend's" cheeks, because he knew he was the only one who could make Calum bend and kneel.

"Ash, get off me" Calum's tone was grave, but he knew it was pure condescension, he couldn't make him stay away even if he wanted to, so he asked in a low voice.

"Fine" walked away with a smile on his face, left with the small victory of confirming that he had him wrapped around his finger.

The tension was building as they walked around looking for you. They checked Calum's room, but you weren't there, nor the kitchen or the patio. And they were getting tired of calling your name, until Ashton heard a small noise from one of the upstairs bedrooms. Just to check, he opened the door.

You were there, sitting against the headboard of the bed, curled up with your arms around your knees, practically naked, with a red face and slightly messy hair. You felt a shiver run through your body when you saw Ashton at the door with the doorknob still in his hand. Immediately, nerves, heat, and embarrassment filled you. How the hell were you going to explain being naked with a fucking vibrator next to you?

"A-Ash, I..." You could barely speak without stuttering. You just wanted the earth to swallow you whole right then and there.

"What are you doing, babe?" Ashton didn't seem very annoyed or surprised. "Why are you playing with that? Were you so desperate for a little attention...?" His tone hovered between scolding and provocation.

His steps weren't quick, but they were firm as he approached you.

"No, it wasn't that..." Your cheeks were burning, you couldn't even look him in the eyes, it was nothing new for him to see you looking like a mess, but you knew Ashton was right and that was what embarrassed you the most, you needed himmore than you were willing to admit.

When he was at the edge of the bed, he took your face in his hand, pulling you closer while his fingers dug into your cheeks. "Don't lie to Daddy like that... you know I hate lies..." He whispered against your lips, there was affection in it, but Ashton wasn't the type to forget easily.

Calum whistled, leaning against the doorframe. "Did I miss something? Because I didn't know you were so quick at undressing someone." No malice in his words, only a certain admiration. His eyes observed your bodies without shame or fear; there was enough trust and even intimacy that nothing new was done to him.

"No, Cal, actually she was already like that" For a second you felt Ashton move a little closer, but it was only to grab the vibrator next to you and throw it at Calum.

Calum caught it cleanly, his hands getting wet when he touched it, he couldn't say much when he realized it was "Oh..." He gripped the object for a second before dropping it to the floor, a soft smile forming on his face as he closed the bedroom door behind him.

The light outside had disappeared, now the only thing that allowed one to recognize oneself was the faint illumination through the window curtains. The air felt heavy with that orange light amidst the darkness.

"You just had to be patient, baby. Now you're screwed," Cal said as he walked to the bed, taking off his shirt and shoes.

"What are you...? But... shit..." Your attempts to complain were useless, the suggestive way Ashton's hand was around your neck didn't let you think straight.

"Yes, Calum is right. You shouldn't have been so stubborn, now you deserve a rather... harsh punishment."

He also began to take off his clothes, it was difficult to divide attention between two people, but both were incredibly... strong at managing it. Ashton hugged you from behind, his muscles surrounding your neck and the lower part of your face, smothering any sound you could make. Calum approached, getting into bed as well. Right in front of you, he took your knees from underneath and lifted them until he had a perfect view of your pussy.

"You know... you look... beautiful, just like that... Isn't she, Ash?" His gaze swept over you completely, then rose for a second towards Ashton.

Cal's words sent a shiver down your spine. You had always had the doubt, but it was clear that there was something more between you, and none of the three of you seemed to deny it.

Ashton felt you tremble, and could only smile as his hand rose to your face, his fingers entering your mouth to entwine with the warmth of your tongue while he tightened his grip around your neck. You no longer knew if it was his skin or the heat, but he had you numb.

Calum wasn't merciful either, especially when he saw you so messy and beautiful at the same time. His hands, which had been caressing the inside of your thighs, moved to grip your hips tightly so he could pull you closer. He didn't even put his cock in you directly, he wanted to see you suffer a little more, so he just started rubbing it against your pussy.

"Fuck- Don't...!" You moaned, even though before speaking you thought you would sound 'normal', it was clear that from now on it would be impossible with two men testing you.

Ashton chuckled softly. "Don't swear in bed." His hand now covered your mouth tightly. He kissed your cheek as his muscles tensed a little more around your neck.

Calum's rhythm was getting faster and faster, the way his cock slid between your folds was torturous, but never deep enough to enter you.

After teasing you for a while, he finally thrust it in, without warning, just shaking you. Even Ashton had to adjust himself because he almost lost his balance. He didn't complain, he could take advantage of the situation and help a little.

The sound of his hickeys on your neck mingled with the sound of Calum fucking you. You were wet, which helped things go a little faster, but that didn't mean it was any easier, not at all. His cock filled you so completely it was hard to push it in any deeper. Calum's thickness had you trembling, sweating, and a little sore, but what was pleasure without a little pain? Maybe Ashton understood this because he kept squeezing your neck, partly because he could tell the tension in his arm had you panting, surrendered.

They were both equally unbearable. They didn't stop playing around for quite a while. At one point, Calum moved closer to you while still inside you, kissing the space between your neck and collarbone haphazardly, leaving a couple of drops of saliva there, before almost immediately seeking Ashton's lips as well. Ashton put his tongue in Cal's mouth, seeking to feel every corner, he knew that all of it was his. Their breaths trembled during the kiss as you continued trying to catch your breath and not lose control.

"Wait... throw her down on the bed, like this," Ashton whispered against Calum's lips. His arm finally released your neck and moved to your hip.

Calum pulled his cock out of you, and even though you were a little tight, it didn't take long.

The sheets beneath you were getting wetter, but neither of you gave a damn.

You stood against Ashton for a couple of seconds until he grabbed your hair. "I'm not finished yet sweetheart..." he said, pressing close to your ear just before pulling you down onto the bed, your face pressed into the soft pillow.

"Daddy...?" You barely tried to get up, but he pushed your head back down.

Ashton now positioned himself on top of you, his knees on either side of your legs while you were face down.

"Stay there." His gaze traveled from your back to your thighs, then back up again. His other hand cupped one of your buttocks as a dangerous smile formed on his lips. "Stay very still for daddy..." His tone was suggestive, heavy, he was clearly going to...

His hand rose and spanked you so hard it left a bruise. You screamed into the pillow and tightened your grip on the sheets, but you couldn't move because of his hand in your hair. He found the softness of your skin intoxicating, as well as the way it bounced when he spanked you. And you couldn't deny that you loved the way his hand clung to your skin through the sweat, you could feel his warmth and every squeeze that told you that you were not alone.

Calum tried to calm down, but seeing you guys didn't help, he was hard, that would be difficult to change tonight. Ashton spanked you again, this time without so much force, he just wanted to hear the sound of your skin against his heavy hand again.

And each of your moans was like a challenge to do it again, so Ashton didn't plan to stop, but he wanted to hear you ask for it. He wanted to hear it come out of you even if it was a mess, but he really needed to hear it.

"Say it." Ash called you by your name, his tone was still affected by desire, but now it was a little deeper, he was serious. Ashton pulled your flushed, sweaty face from the pillow, still holding onto your hair. "Beg me..."

"...please..." Your voice came out low, you were catching your breath but you knew it wasn't enough for him, so you closed your eyes tightly and opened them again.

"I told you to beg me... is that how I taught you to do it?"

Your gaze shifted for a second towards Calum; he was agitated, his cheeks were flushed, and his cock was hard just from looking at you. A small fire of rage ignited in your chest, and you began to moan on purpose.

"Please... please daddy, I need you..."

Ashton noticed the intentional lacisiveness in your tone and couldn't help but chuckle a little.

"Don't do that" He threw your head back against the pillow while laughing.

"Sorry Cal!" you raised your hand a little "my bad".

"Don't worry..." He ran his hand over the back of his neck, it was obvious he had shuddered.

"Come closer, don't be shy now," Ahstok said with a smile, gesturing for him to come over.

As he drew closer, Ashton greeted him with another passionate kiss, his tongue desperately searching for his throat. One of your boyfriend's hands moved to his neck, feeling the vibrant heat of his friend's body, he wanted to feel him close, close, close...

When they finally broke apart from the kiss, their breathing ragged and their hearts pounding, Calum approached you.

"Hey, princess, turn around, okay?" His gasps sounded close, leaving his warm breath against your cheek, which was slightly buried in the pillow.

First you supported yourself on your elbows to turn over, you managed to breathe fully when you were lying face up, several strands of hair fell on your sweaty face, your body was in full view of both men.

Cal was starting to sweat, though he didn't seem to mind. He lowered his head to your chest, resting his arms on the mattress, and parted his lips just enough to nibble and lick your nipples and the skin around them. The son of a bitch knew exactly where to find a sensitive spot. Although your hands went to his head to "move him away", when they touched his hair and barely moved it, you only brought him closer and closer.

Without explanation, he separated from your skin, leaving you somewhat covered in saliva, but the only thing that bothered you was that he hadn't continued.

"You're so cute when it's obvious you're enjoying it, you little slut..." Ashton suddenly pulled you by the legs, positioning himself between your thighs, you could feel his hard cock against your vagina.

Calum laughed quietly, now embracing Ashton from behind. You could clearly see the desire overflowing in his eyes, and he didn't take long to show it because while Ash held you to penetrate, Calum pressed his lips to the brunette's neck, sucking his skin to leave small marks while his hands gripped his bulging chest.

When Ashton penetrated you, it wasn't gentle at all. He didn't care if he was too rough, actually, he chose to go as deep as he could. Instead of pulling out and pushing back in, your boyfriend preferred to play with you, only pulling halfway out and then penetrating you again. That way it was faster, and he knew you couldn't handle his thick cock anyway. He could see it in how he filled you almost completely and how he always struggled to fuck you.

Calum's kisses and fondling left Ashton a little weaker than usual. He took less time to ejaculate, but he didn't do it inside you, he did it between your folds, leaving you sticky. He wanted to humiliate you a little just because you were holding back.

It was sweet how you tried.

That soft and provocative smile formed on his face when he saw your pout and those cheeks almost as red as your pussy at that moment.

"Okay, just come already, baby." He was still holding your hip with one hand, but with the other he slipped his fingers between your lips and began to caress your core a little, mingling with his own cum. He was definitely killing you, and shit... what a good way to die.

Although you had tried to resist a little longer, you couldn't hold on any longer, you were overstimulated and his fingers were testing you.

You leaned your head back against the pillow, finally coming between Ashton's fingers. He was satisfied with that small victory, though he still had something left to do, so he let you go.

You took advantage of the moment he let you go on the bed to catch your breath, you were sweating and your heart was still beating too fast.

"Cal..." Ashton turned his face to where his friend was kissing his neck.

Calum wasn't very aware, he too was quite overstimulated by the moans, the hickeys, the caresses, Ashton's body, yours, all at once it left him numb. "Mmh?" His eyes were a little lost, but he managed to move aside a little so Ashton could see him over his shoulder.

"You've been a good boy all night. Let me help you with that." His gaze dropped to his friend's hard cock, and as he turned around, he grabbed his shoulders, pushing him down onto the bed.

Despite the darkness, you could see Ashton straddling Calum, stealing his lips in a kiss, a kiss that seemed only meant to stifle Calum's moans, because damn, Ashton knew all the most tortuous ways to make someone come.

Calum was a heavy machine, but so was Ashton, he could masturbate him with one hand without any problem. The worst part was that right after, he'd press the tip for a couple of seconds, just to keep him always on the edge.

Just looking at him made the heat rise again through your body, but you were already tired, so you focused on regaining your composure while listening to the gasps and moans.

The cool night air filtering through one of the half-open windows slowly dried your sweaty skin.

"Luke? Luke, are you okay?" Your voice came through the bathroom door, he was inside, but all you could hear was the sound of the shower running.

"...Yes, I'm going to take a shower, it's fine."

"What are you talking about? You burst into the house and locked yourself in the bathroom. Don't tell me 'it's fine' "

"Please... I swear I'm fine, sorry if I was rough." Your body calmed down a little when you heard Luke closer to the door, almost as if he were pressed against the wood.

"C'mon Luke" you said, lowering your tone just enough to connect with him at that moment. It was like trying to hunt a deer.

"You can talk to me about anything you want"

On the other side, Luke was thinking about whether it was easier to open up or avoid complications. He was still wearing his open-collared shirt, his leather jacket and black jeans, his boots dirtying the damp floor, mixing the dirt from outside with the small puddles of water.

You waited outside with your head against the white door, knowing that the sound of the shower was just a distraction.

"Look, we don't have to do this, honey..."

He wanted to talk, he really wanted to, but letting go was harder than it seemed, everything he kept inside tortured him, whether from exhaustion or the guilt he felt. As the silence dragged on, the possibility seemed more distant.

"...If you don't want to talk, that's fine, you know I love you all the same."

now or never, now or never, now or nev-

"Wait!" He opened the door quickly, and you could finally see Luke's agitated expression, his eyes slightly moist, one of his hair fell over his forehead.

"Babe..." Before you could finish speaking, he caught you in a tight hug, too tight, but you didn't want to complain at that moment. You wrapped yourself around him as best you could considering his size compared to you.

"Could you please, please, please, stay here for a while?" His voice was a whisper, he closed his eyes tightly, maybe hoping that when he opened them everything would be better. Luke didn't care if he sounded desperate.

"Of course." You could only hug him, you had no idea what was hidden in that head of his, you only knew that you couldn't leave at that moment.

Minutes passed while his body was pressed against yours, despite the layers of clothing that covered you both you could perfectly feel his warmth surrounding you, especially his hands clinging to your back, you heard his breathing and when he sniffled to hold back his tears. The warm light in the hallway at night calmed the atmosphere a little, the shower was still running in the background, which gave you an idea.

You didn't break the hug, but you did take a step back so Luke could let go, you needed to look him in the eyes. He was still struggling to hold back, even though his eyes were red and his fingers were trembling when they released your body.

"You're tense, Luke. Go take a bath and eat something. Maybe that will calm you down a bit, and then we can lie down and talk for a while, okay?"

He let out a sigh, trying to think straight, he was dazed. Luke turned to go back to the bathroom. You watched as he took off his jacket until he finished closing the door in front of you.

You had to trust that it would help.

Inside, he took off his boots and clothes, everything fell haphazardly into a corner of the bathroom, the hot water steaming and fogging the mirrors and the shower door. When he finally entered the water his muscles relaxed. The world faded away in the heat that filled the space, he knew something was missing, but for now, that was enough to make him feel like a civilized person when he came out of the bathroom.

The water fell endlessly on the back of his neck, he could keep thinking and thinking, trying to find a magical solution, or at least until it was time to go out and truly collide with the world.

Luke was calm there alone because everything was reduced to white noise and himself.

After a while, he finally finished bathing, and with a sigh, he stepped out of the shower. The man grabbed a towel and wrapped it around his waist. His bare chest wandering around the house had never been a problem beyond the dripping water; Luke never quite dried himself off properly when he was in the bathroom, so most of the time he came out looking like a soaking wet dog. To a certain extent, his irresponsibility seemed endearing, especially when he did it without realizing it, like on days like these.

Luke entered the shared room silently, he still didn't want to be seen or questioned.

You knew his attitude, so you stayed leaning against the headboard of the bed, obviously glancing at him out of the corner of your eye. Didn't want to pressure him, but you also couldn't ignore the fact that things were bad again.

Your boyfriend finally dried himself in front of the wardrobe next to the bed, let go of the towel from his hip and wiped his face, chest and the rest of his body with it.

Your eyes couldn't help but admire his pale back, trembling slightly from the cold and the way his arms moved as if his shoulders were heavy, leaving aside any kind of desire, you wanted to hug him, without a doubt.

After Luke got dressed, he sat down next to you. The bed and his clothes made him feel more comfortable and warm.

He finally turned towards you. It was so simple you would have thought everything was back to normal if it weren't for his eyes, his beautiful blue eyes...

They were scared.

Asking if he was okay would probably be pointless for now, it was clear he wasn't, so you opted for something else.

"Do you want a hug?" You raised your arms, you wanted to help him, to take care of him if necessary. "Come here, baby."

Luke's large arms encircled you almost immediately, pulling you towards him and pressing your bodies together again, instinctively, he buried his face in your neck.

The silence didn't last long, you could feel him losing his breath as he spoke against your neck and shoulder.

"Things haven't gone very well... First Michael... and now... I don't know why... It's stupid." He tried to find the best way to say it without it sounding serious, but it was, and when it slipped from his lips the silence became evident.

"Someone threatened to kill me."

Feeling your body tense, Luke panicked. "I-It probably wasn't meant for me" He pulled away from you, holding you by the shoulders..."There were a lot of people there and I had my back turned. I think I just heard bad." ...and stopped when he was face to face with you, his breathing ragged again, barely able to meet your gaze.

"But you're still afraid." You weren't being very gentle, you knew Luke, you knew him well enough to know that as soon as you gave him the chance he would look for any way to escape instead of facing his own problems, even if they were right in front of him.

You looked him straight in the eyes even though he avoided it at all costs.

"No, I..." A dry laugh escaped his throat, there it was again, that damned smile that served to lighten everything. He was a calm person maybe, but not now, not after opening up. There was nothing calm about someone who was afraid like a child for a completely understandable reason.

"Luke"

"I'm telling you, it's impossible that a truly danger person got through security, it was just... nothing"

"Luke..."

"I was tired of interviews, that's all. I probably misunderstood when I was greeting the fans."

"Love, listen to me" You faltered, your tone lower than usual. How else could you handle it in that moment? How do you let him know you're there for him? "You don't have to hide or keep anything to yourself, especially something that serious"

"I'm not upset, or scared, or indifferent." You tried to continue, but the words wouldn't come out. Now you had that stupid smile on your face. You wanted to show him that everything would be alright. "You can say it, tell me whatever you want, whenever you want. My patience... no, whatever this is, it's not going to change." You lifted his hands, holding them. "See, I'm going to be here whenever you need me, because I love you, and that means that no matter what happens, even if you make a mistake someday, or if you get tired of me and I of you, I'm going to keep loving you."

A low laugh escaped you, partly to calm yourself, and partly because of how strange but honest it all sounded coming out of your mouth.

You stopped being an anchor for Luke in reality, everything seemed more like a desperate attempt not to lose him in those blue eyes.

Luke opened his mouth several times, nothing came out, but his eyes were already red, on the verge of tears, at a certain point he stopped trying and just sank once more into the embrace. You covered his back with your arms.

You could feel his body trembling beneath your limbs, you had to wait for him to finish venting.

"I was just... signing autographs and greeting some fans and... in the parking lot someone approached me, I was already arriving at the van, there were many fans but I heard him, when I turned around there was this man, I couldn't even see his face, but I felt it was him or someone close to him"

There wasn't much relief in your head hearing your partner's pent-up crying. Beyond this situation, the way he clung to you so tightly made you deduce that he wasn't crying just because of this. You still didn't know how much he had kept to himself, but you didn't want to pressure him.

"I tried to ignore it because it's nothing new, it happened to Michael a few months ago, but damn... I really wasn't expecting it and... it seemed like no one else noticed, so I didn't say anything. Maybe I should have, if someone was waiting for the opportunity or something."

Just thinking about the possibility made you shudder, the fear was real and the risk possible, but the fact that Luke was so overwhelmed and would actually consider it, someone hurting him...

You got a lump in your throat, it took you a while before you could comfort him again.

"No, no, don't think about that for a while, okay? We can notify the manager and hire more security for a while until we're safe." You broke away from the hug for a moment, holding his face in your hands, Luke's skin was warm even though his shaved beard felt rough under your fingers. "Now you're here, at home, and it's totally normal that you've felt this way. Just... please don't wait until it's too late to ask for help, you know I'll always support you."

His sad and tired expression accepted your displays of affection, of course he wanted to forget everything, but it would take him some time to feel safe and calm again.

You slowly moved closer to kiss him, but before you could, he lay down. You didn't stand there with your arms outstretched in vain. Once he was on the pillow, Luke patted the mattress beside him a couple of times, he wanted you to rest too.

How could you refuse?

A smile appeared on your lips as you settled under the sheets.

Luke hugged you, pressing his cheek against your chest, feeling your heartbeat a little. Tears burned around his closed eyes, leaving the skin around them slightly red, as was his nose, glistening from crying. You stroked his hair gently and carefully, running your fingers through his curls.

It was almost unthinkable to see him snuggled up like this after seeing him constantly busy, with his head on other things and that look of unbreakable.

But all that was bullshit.

He was just a boy.

You two were sitting on the sofa in Calum's living room, as you did every Friday when he went to record or practice his songs.

Sometimes you ended up doing completely different things. There was a certain level of trust between both of you, enough to wander through conversations and how you used your time. Sometimes you would start cooking dinner together when you stayed overnight at his house, or you would start watching TV because you ended up talking about a really good series that, according to him, you should also watch.

Sometimes you did everything but argue about music, but that was fine because at the end of the day you both felt satisfied, even if it was a waste of time.

But this time was different...

That day you arrived at his house and found him in his living room, lying on his sofa. The lights were off, only the natural daylight was coming in. For a moment you even thought Calum wasn't home until you approached and recognized his figure among the rumpled sheets above him, taking a nap shirtless and hugging a pillow.

You couldn't deny it, being in his house and seeing him like that made you feel some intimacy between the two of you, maybe because there was some.

You sat down next to him and waited a while; sleepiness was starting to affect you too, it was contagious perhaps, and you would have ended up lying down next to him if he hadn't woken up first.

"What are you doing here, babe?" His voice still sounded husky as he sat up, running a hand over his face, but you could tell he was familiar with the situation.

"I-" The words wouldn't come out. Calum was making you nervous. Of course there was tension between the two of you, even if you wouldn't admit it. This was like throwing gunpowder on a fire that was already burning. "I came because... well, today is Friday." You had already lost sight of the original purpose of the visits; you only did it to see Calum, and he always invited you to see him, simple.

"Seriously...? Damn, I didn't realize what time it was, forgive me, beautiful." He stretched, still sitting, and ran a hand over the back of his neck. He wasn't as affected as you, but he knew exactly what he was doing. "Don't you want to come over for a while? I think it would be a good way to spend the day." He joked, but you seriously considered it.

His relaxed expression was replaced by one of understanding, he didn't mind you "invading" his personal space. Calum never said it, but he wanted you close most of the time.

You were stiff on the edge of the sofa next to his outstretched legs. He took you in both hands and pulled you closer to him, saying nothing; it wasn't necessary for now. He hugged you from behind; he was still warm from being wrapped up for so long. His skin gave you a feeling of tranquility you couldn't explain.

"Sorry... I... I don't think this is a good idea, Calum. First of all, I shouldn't have barged in like I owned the place." Only then did you start using your brain instead of your heart. "And... and don't you think it's weird that, being best friends, you call me 'love', 'darling', "babe'..." Your heartbeat was accelerating, yet Calum didn't move a muscle to let you go.

"If you don't like it, I'll stop." His tone was a little lower, his arms still gently embracing your neck. "But you know it's not just me."

Calum's face drew closer, pressing between your neck and shoulder. His movements weren't meant to be intrusive; they were gentle and comforting, a way of calming you down.

"Tell me the truth, don't you want it too?" Calum's voice was a whisper; part of him didn't want to say it, but on the other hand, he was tired of pretending they were just good friends so he could be with you. Now he had you in his arms and didn't want to let you go.

You tried to think about what was best at that moment, but Calum's hands caressing your arms wouldn't let you do it properly.

Cal positioned you between his legs, and you ended up lying against his chest. "Calum?" One of his arms was still around your neck, muffling your words against his skin.

His other hand slid down to lift your shirt to your collarbone. A blush crept across your face, but you didn't stop him. Soon you felt the liberating sensation of your bra unhooking. Calum removed it and set it aside.

"It's okay if I...?" His hand touched your soft skin, he didn't hold back but you could feel the slight tremor of his fingers as he grabbed one of your boobs.

"Yeah" His warm touch on your skin was intoxicating, but he didn't stop there.

"Then I'm going to slide my hand... and open you up a little." Just as he said, his hand went down to your pants, unbuttoned them, and put his hand all the way down. You felt his fingers warm your pussy; he was right on a sensitive spot, and he didn't hold back from putting three fingers inside you. The movement slowed down as he went deeper.

Your rapid breathing turned into gasps; you definitely hated—in a good way—the way his fingers withdrew from you, making you tremble. Every shred of composure or self-control was killed by the hickeys he left on your neck; his lips sucked as if trying to trap the warmth of your skin, leaving a trail of saliva when he finished.

Calum was entertained watching you twitch on top of him, but his mind was elsewhere, he wanted a piece of the pie too. "Is it too much to ask you to ride me? I know you're a little... 'weak' right now." His tone softened. "But I want to put it inside you and see you give it your all. Can you, babydoll?"

Your breathing was shallow as he withdrew his fingers again; you had heard what he had said, you just needed to catch your breath. Calum loosened his arm around your neck, didn't want to overwhelm you, so he let you relax for a second. Also he carefully readjusted your shirt and finished removing your pants so they wouldn't get in the way.

After a while, as their breathing tried to stabilize, you turned around to look at him. His cheeks were slightly flushed from the heat, a thin layer of sweat covered his entire body, and his eyes were fixed on you. There was no way you wouldn't want to continue, not when he looked so good.

"Kiss me"

"Wha-" Calum was still catching his breath; he hadn't expected your request so soon.

"Kiss me, now."

When you approached him to do what you asked, he didn't refuse, rather, he drew you closer. His left hand, placed on your cheek, slightly ruffled the hair that fell across your face, while his other hand caressed your thigh.

Your breath mingled with his as he moistened your face with each kiss, it was hot, but that wasn't enough, you needed more, especially when it came to Calum.

You heard his moan the moment he lifted you by the hips to mount his cock; he wasn't very careful, his thoughts were somewhat clouded at that moment. When you felt him enter you, a wave of heat washed over you. Cal's hands only gripped you, pulling you down further. You let yourself fall onto his sweaty chest, you needed it 'case u couldn't stay upright as he quickened his pace, lifting you up and then thrusting back in. It was hard for him to go fast because you were somewhat tight, but even so, it wasn't gentle at all.

"What happened, princess? Did you get tired so quickly?" Calum said, pressing his lips to your ear, you could feel his warm breath against your skin. His tone was a mixture of that usual familiarity and a romantic tenderness.

"I'm fine." Lie. You were melting on top of him, he hadn't even tried to stop when he was talking to you, which only made it harder to think of a response.

"No, you're not." He didn't just laugh a little, he planted a kiss on your cheek, almost an apology for what he was about to do.

Cal pressed your hips down, you could hear his breathing become ragged and turn into gasps, he wasn't holding back, he thrust his cock all the way in to fill you up, when he pulled it out again his movements became slower, not by choice but because he felt you trembling and scratching his skin, his cum had left you sticky, the sensation had you numb. You were looking for something to hold on to, but you couldn't quite grab onto his back, so they only ended up being harmless scratches for Calum.

The room filled with the sound of your screams and Calum's moans muffled by your hair. Who the fuck needed to talk about music when you could do something so much better?

Calum came to pick you up at your house in his car. He doesn't usually use it because he's not in town, but this occasion was special; he wanted to see you.

From the window it seemed that the natural landscape blended with the sky because of the speed at which you were going, the wheels producing a constant sound against the pavement.

The radio was on for a while until you realized that "Moving Along" was playing. You looked at him to see his reaction, but he turned it off before you could say anything. He pretended to look towards the window on his side of the car, but you could see his cheeks turn red. He was embarrassed, and it was too cute.

A sweet smile appeared on your face but you didn't say a word, there was no need, this was all you needed, Calum enjoying the time by your side.

You traveled for a while along the lonely road until you stopped on the side.

The confusion didn't last long when you saw his face come closer to yours and give you a kiss on the jaw. He was gentle, his hand resting confidently on your thigh, giving you that security you were used to.

The trees in the forest beside the road cast a cool shadow on the car, you could hear them when the wind shook the calm of the day. The green complemented the blue of the clear sky. It was midday and the world kept turning, but inside that car, everything belonged to you.

"Do you really want to eat? 'Cause I really want to eat you right now." His sincerity pierced you like a dagger, Calum's voice was low and deep at that moment, different from how you heard him on television.

"I think lunch can wait a little while." The nervousness was accompanied by a genuine desire to be back in his arms, especially after receiving a small taste.

Calum's hand, which was on your thigh, slid to grab your hand and bring it to his lips, leaving a firm and loving kiss while looking into your eyes. Maybe it was difficult for him to say "I love you," but this was his best way of showing it to you, being patient, affectionate, and protective.

After a couple of minutes of shared calm and silence, in an environment that, although practically outdoors, felt private, Calum approached and positioned himself above you, just a second before reclining the seat, you fell along with it.

"Can you do something for me, sweetheart?" Calum moved away a little, giving you space, you'll need it. "Turn around"

You looked him straight in the eyes trying to figure out exactly what he wanted, if he wanted to take you from behind he would have simply asked you, but this time he asked for something more, something in parts.

"'Kay..." Your voice trembled as you turned the seat around, ending up face down.

"Now get on all fours." Cal gave you orders while observing every part of your figure, he was clear about it.

Your body was supported by your palms and knees, but you didn't stay like that for long because Calum began to push your torso down.

"Okay, now just breathe and... lean back a little more." His hand moved up your back with a soft, warm pressure, pressing your cheek against the seat, while his other hand held your hips up.

The strength in your arms faltered until the upper half of your body was practically surrendered to the seat, the lower half remaining up, leaving your ass in Calum's view.

Your legs buckled, you tried to adjust yourself in that position, your knees would have slipped down the leather seat if it weren't for Calum's hand.

You heard his low laugh, "Hey, trust me." He adjusted you again, this time with both hands, his movements patient, not rough for now. "I'm going to lift your skirt and I want you to stay very quiet, okay?" And he did as he said, his fingers moving to hold the edge of your dress and lift it up.

When he lifted it and pulled it towards your back, you were exposed, but Calum wasn't shy. He knew what he wanted and he had to do it to get it. "I know you can be a little noisy sometimes when I touch you... I'll be gentle, I promise."

His thumbs began to caress your pussy from top to bottom over the fabric of your panties, each time his touch sank deeper inside, he could feel your folds opening naturally due to the stimulation.

It was more difficult to regain your composure in that situation, you tried to obey Calum, but every caress made you shudder and your legs tremble.

The tension only increased when Calum carefully lowered you. "Are you ready, babe?"

His voice was a private whisper that could have been lost in the ambient noise around you, but you heard it loud and clear, and for a moment you tensed up, could you really resist it?

You nodded, squinting without realizing it, you didn't think about anything else.

Calum unzipped his pants and unbuttoned them slowly; you had all the time in the world. Following that, you clearly saw him lower his boxers enough to reveal his hard cock.

But his expression seemed calm compared to yours, which was attentive to every detail and almost desperate to have a little. It was enormous; you didn't even know how it would feel if he put it all the way in, but you were willing to find out with pleasure.

Cal took it in his hand to place it between your folds and then just plunged it inside you at least halfway, just to see if you could take it. You trembled and moaned, but you endured it like a good girl, so in a slow move he began to push it in deeper and deeper, becoming tight and wet as your folds let it in.

Only then did you understand why he had chosen that position, he wanted to have you at his mercy. Your cheek pressed against the seat muffled your moans. It wasn't enough to have you kneeling or on all fours; he wanted you surrendered and exposed. Calum's hands on your hips and buttocks were heavy and warm, holding you closer or pulling you away from time to time, slapping you when he tried a little harder than normal to get in or out of you because of how tight you were even though you were wet.

Calum loved seeing how soft and malleable you were in his hands, he massaged and caressed your ass without a problem and that only turned you on more, his thickness had you delirious.

He wanted to kiss you and bury his face in your neck, but he'd have time for that later; for now, he was more than happy just fucking you.

Your feet trembled as you tried to maintain strength in your legs to avoid collapsing, because Calum lifted you slightly to penetrate you, but this made it impossible to fully support yourself on your knees.

Your heart beat even harder than when it was racing, keeping you in constant tension and anticipation, an expectation that was fulfilled slowly and painfully, something your numb senses could only feel to the core and let themselves go.

When rhythm and sweat had taken over both of them, their movements became more careless and direct. Calum's hands freely grabbed your ass to separate you and pull out faster, only to put it back in a couple of seconds later.

"Fuck, I can't..." you gasped, you didn't have the strength in your arms to get up and settle yourself, a thread of saliva escaped from your mouth.

"Just a little more, beautiful" It sounded broken, Calum was clearly affected too, his grip was getting weaker, he ran his hand through his hair but it was impossible to hide that he was losing control.

At one point, one of his hands slid down to your waist and pulled your body towards his cock. Cal wasn't trying to be gentle anymore, he just needed to break you somehow because you looked so good like that, a mess, with your dress wrinkled and your eyes clouded, so fucking beautiful.

You let out a moan mixed with your ragged breath, only the shiver that ran through you made you realize the trickle spilling down your thigh, Calum had filled you with his cum.

He didn't stop, he thrust it back in from behind, a wave of heat hit you, you tried to stay on your elbows but it was impossible, your body felt heavy and your legs trembled as Calum fucked you deeper, a drop of sweat rolled from your forehead to the edge of your jaw, you were looking face down with your forehead against the leather of the seat, your gasps hit the material uncontrollably, you were losing it.

"Yeah, you're doing well... keep going a little longer." But ach of his thrusts shook you and left you breathless, even he was having trouble keeping up.

After a couple of minutes he finally gave up, he stayed upright by pure willpower, otherwise he would have collapsed and he didn't want to bother you, it had already been enough to leave you full and sore.

From the way his body relaxed and the low moan you heard from him, you assumed he was finished. You just let out a sigh when he pulled out; suddenly you felt empty without the warmth of his cock against your walls.

"I hope you're pleased 'cause I'm completely exhausted..." He sighed, his voice was warm, even a little animated, he wanted to make sure you were okay.

"Yes, I just need a break... and a shower." You sounded hoarse and breathless as you struggled to calm your breathing. The sex was over, but you were still sensitive and clingy, and you weren't the only one.

You put your panties back on, although now they were wet. Calum saw everything perfectly as he pulled up his pants, his skin was glistening with sweat and still warm, you even could see the bulge between his thighs.

His heavy hand anchored itself on the car window handle, when it opened, a cool breeze entered along with the white sound of the wind shaking the forest trees, Calum's breathing began to calm down.

You turned around to get some fresh air and finally relax, falling heavily, with your hair a little messy.

"Okay, then... we'll go back to your place and take a shower before going to dinner." He didn't even try to hide his smile, his stupid, cute smile.

Your eyes softened with affection and a smile also formed on your lips.

Speaking of lips, he brought his lips close to yours to trap you in a kiss, he definitely wasn't planning on letting you go.

A year had passed since you started dating Michael. You were very close friends, so at the time it seemed like an amazing idea, but then came the plans, work, and distance, and your relationship fell into a dark hole that was difficult to climb out of because you no longer knew how to talk to each other—because you had no idea how the other was doing—but you didn't want to break up either. Because regardless of the complications and awkward silences, you both knew that beneath it all there was something much more special, something that not even distance could erase. And if necessary, you would start from scratch, but breaking up wasn't an option.

Michael had made the decision to buy a house in LA, but he really didn't want to be there alone, so the idea just came to him, even though it was risky, He finally called you.

"Hey, I'm calling because I've been thinking for a while that maybe... you should move with me to Los Angeles. Before you say anything, I know New York is very far away and you can't be without a job, but I promise you I've thought of everything in case you accept"

"Michael, what are you talking about? It's six o'clock, I'm on the subway, y-you can't just drop a bomb like that." You were holding a couple of bags in both hands while trying to maintain your balance among the people and the movement of the train.

"Trust me." It also sounded like he was walking down the street. "...I know things have been kind of... quiet lately, but I'll be back in LA by spring because I bought a house there and I'll start moving very soon. But I eant you there, I need you with me.

You couldn't deny it, between work, the overwhelming nature of the city, and the high costs of housing and food, the idea of escaping with your boyfriend to the other side of the country sounded like a fantasy come true.

"I-I have a friend who can help you find another job, while you stay with me and help me with some things... I'm sorry, I don't mean to do this to you-" You could hear the hesitation and nervousness in his voice. "Just ignore me... I know it's still too soon and that you don't..."

You didn't know if it was because you had only slept three hours or because some idiot was digging his elbow into your ribs to make his way in the train car, but you responded without thinking enough

"Michael, look..." You lowered your head, almost surrendering. "Just give me some time to... quit."

Michael remained silent on the other end of the phone, prepared for a resounding "no" or maybe a "but," but instead she simply gave in and he needed to process it.

"Okay, Then I'll call you later" Michael's voice sounded a little higher because he was trying to hold back his emotions. "I love you"

You let out a breath that was like a silent laugh, the people and the train kept moving around you, but at least now you had the hope of seeing Michael again.

"Love ya too" The warm feeling in your chest remained there even after the call ended.

How could you give up on that person's love? It was crazy, but you were both crazy enough to try.

After some weeks, you were finally boarding a plane to LA. It was a radical change, especially in your lifestyle, because you felt disoriented without your routine.

The house Michael had bought was much bigger than you had imagined, inside, everything was filled with boxes and some disorganized furniture. The kitchen and other important things had already been set up, but the rest of the house felt strangely empty. On the second floor there was almost nothing except in Michael's room, there was the bed made up, a couple of sheets still in their packages, a newly placed vertical mirror, the empty closet and a couple of boxes around.

You were tired and the mattress seemed comfortable, but you had to buy food and other supplies to stock the house before your boyfriend arrived in the afternoon. You went back downstairs, didn't even change your clothes, and left the house–or rather, mansion–and walked for a while until you reached the nearest supermarket.

Everything felt like when you're woken up in the early morning to go on a trip to the beach, or like a Friday after a shitty week, light as a feather.

After shopping you walked around a bit looking at the neighborhood houses, the shade of the trees and bushes that decorated most of the houses around you gave you cool shade from the hot summer in the city.

You still couldn't believe you were actually moving in with your boyfriend, whom you hadn't seen for almost a year, but it actually felt right. Even before all this chaos started, Michael was a comfort in your life, someone you could turn to when you wanted to calm down and feel better. You used to lose sleep talking to him until late; he'd even text you at work or send you memes or silly videos.

You knew there was something bigger beneath those silly or simple conversations, and although it seemed invisible, that affection you had for each other was what drove the machinery of your relationship, in part, that is the main reason why you accepted this.

A car horn blared next to you.

"Shit!" Your heart almost jumps out of your mouth.

A black car was moving towards you, with the window down you saw him, Michael with a stupid smile on his face.

"Sorry, I wanted to break the ice. Come on, get in." He was wearing sunglasses and his blue plaid shirt, his hair slicked back because of the heat.

You just froze, you hadn't seen him in person for MONTHS and the jerk greeted you like this. Your immediate reaction was to drop the bags to the floor and cover your mouth, still not quite believing it.

"What are you...?" You could barely say it before your voice broke, so you remained silent for a second.

Michael had a smile of absolute happiness, seeing you like that, he opened the door and got out of the car, extending his arms to offer you a hug, trying to contain his own euphoria.

You immediately ran towards him, your arms wrapped around his abdomen and cheek pressed against his shirt, but especially, when he wrapped his arms around you, you felt that comfort you had missed and longed for so much.

"God, I thought you'd come later and I'd have more time. I..." You carefully pulled away from the hug so you could look him in the face. For a second, the words escaped your lips. You weren't ready to see those green eyes again. "...really missed you."

"Yeah, I can tell." Pure happiness shone in his eyes despite the simplicity of the moment. Michael pulled you back, took your shoulders, and kissed you. It was improvised, almost clumsy, but feeling his lips against yours again was a total dopamine rush. "I missed you too." He whispered near your mouth, wasn't provocative, but it was intimate.

When he finally returned to reality, he noticed the supermarket bags lying on the pavement. It was quick, went ahead and picked up two with one hand and the third with the other. You had completely forgotten for a second, before you could do anything Michael had already put them in the back seat of the car so you could sit next to him in the front.

"Come in, it's just a few meters from here to the house" He said, walking around the car to open the door for you.

Once inside the house, the empty space was filled with the sounds of the two of them: conversations about tidying up and decorating, the rustling of bags, and the scraping of furniture as it was moved. You no longer felt alone, maybe there were only two of you, but Michael filled the place with his mere presence, even when you were a person of few words.

After putting away the food and the rest of the bathroom, kitchen, and bedroom supplies, they could finally relax. Michael, of course, wanted to start by playing on his console. "I'll hand you the controller," he said. Even though you were just as good as him, you had a great time with wins and losses, but that didn't matter as much as your laughter and stupids harmless pranks.

You hadn't prepared anything, which was normal for their first day settling into the new house. But ice cream was enough for both while you watched the Jujutsu Kaisen finale for the sixth time.

Michael was so comfortable on the sofa, with you leaning on his shoulder, that he really wanted to stay there forever, everything was so... perfect.

When you were apart, he would soothe her doubts by saying that surely everything would be alright when they were together again, but now that you were together, the doubts persisted. Michael was no longer depressed in a hotel room in Paris, now he was by YOUR side in HIS home, and yet he still felt like he had no control over his anxiety.

And that only made him fucking scared. You hadn't seen each other in months, if not a year. What if you didn't feel the same way anymore? Because maybe you didn't have the same trust as before. Maybe this was just the sunny day before the thunderstorm.

He tried to concentrate on the screen, but every thought swallowed him whole and doubt was killing him; in his mind, your timid silence was a supposed sign of your discomfort and annoyance, which wasn't really there.

Even clinging to his own world was difficult within unfamiliar walls, he became disoriented as he looked around in the darkness of the large house.

Michael was so excited to bring you to live with him because he wanted to see you and not feel like you were slipping through his fingers, but now he felt the same way and didn't know what to do. He was afraid to ask and that you'd think he was a paranoid idiot—which maybe he was—but he was actually more afraid of being right, that you didn't love him anymore after he'd made you wait so long.

You were about to fall asleep when you felt it, Michael's breathing bringing him down, leaving him breathless. When you raised your head, you clearly saw the fear he was trying to hide behind his serious expression, Michael was having a panic attack.

"Mikey?" You sat up on the sofa, he didn't answer, so you asked again "Michael?" You didn't quite understand, but your gaze softened with tenderness. "Hey, you know you can tell me anything, I won't leave... Michael, talk to me."

He turned his head at your words, his face pressed against your shoulder. You were surprised, but instead of moving away, you drew him closer, wrapping your arms around him.

Michael's hands gripped your back painfully tight, he was trembling. When he finally spoke, his voice was deep, broken, pained. "Promise me this is real, please."

"Of course it's real, Michael, everything is new, but we'll be okay, I promise." One of your hands went up to his hair, caressing it carefully, as if he could break at any moment. "I promise..." Your lips left a small kiss on his head, you could feel how that simple gesture made his tense body gradually relax.

And you could hear Michael's breathing, the way his grip softened, every sound he made as he pressed against the space between your neck and collarbone, trying to feel that promise in his own flesh. It all felt like throwing a huge rock into a seemingly calm lake. You had no idea Michael had felt so frustrated and anxious all this time apart. It was almost painful how the comfort he offered you had extinguished your doubts about his own processes. A pang of guilt silently pierced your chest.

Michael quickly grew tired of that weakness and vulnerability, you couldn't tell if it was out of embarrassment or just another manifestation of his chaotic personality. He got up from the sofa after a long sigh, leaving you speechless and with your arms outstretched.

"I'm sorry, I—" He looked away for a second, then decided it wasn't worth it and faced you again. "I'm having an amazing time, seriously, sorry for ruining this." His voice was deep, but it was clear he was just fighting off the trembling.

Mikey was in the middle of a step when you spoke to him. "I love you" sounded as if that could keep him safe and steady, like an anchor.

That stopped him, and then he continued walking. "I'll go upstairs and get some blankets. I don't know if you want to sleep in the upstairs room." But he stopped again, took a breath, and sighed. You couldn't see his face or know what he was thinking at that moment. "I love you, too."

The lightness and affection that accompanied those words put you at ease. "Okay, I'll wait for you."

Michael hurried upstairs, he didn't want to be alone right now. He trusted that he would be alright if he held you in his arms once more.

Mikey entered the room without thinking. Inside were only the bed, the wardrobe, and a small table with a lamp that cast a warm light. It felt cold, but it only made him think. If he was with you, maybe he could make his house feel more like home.

Like the mornings if he woke up next to you, or the quick and clumsy departures from home to go to work, or choosing what decorations to buy for the empty house, he had you here, with him, not miles away, he had to enjoy being with you even though you weren't going to leave.

He felt a weight fall from his chest, replaced by a spark of determination and genuine love.

What a strange thing love is, It can give you everything or destroy you in the process.

Meanwhile, downstairs you were dying of nerves. You had no idea why the hell Michael was taking so long. You started imagining horrible possibilities, like a child terrified because their parents are late getting home. The twitch in your leg didn't stop until you decided to stand up and stride to the stairs.

You tried to act normal, but you soon decided to throw it all away and desperately ran up the stairs. You hurried down the hallway; there were no distractions, just one person to find.

"Michael, is everything alright?"

When you opened the door you saw him in the middle of the room, he seemed to have come out of his thoughts, with the expression of a deer dazzled by the headlights of a car at night. "Ah, yeah, yeah, I'm fine, don't worry. I was just going to grab the sheets and a couple of pillows and..."

He fell silent again, lost in thought. But this time he wasn't thinking about the room or his new home, he was thinking about you, about how you two were going to make this work, because you would.

Michael was disconnected, he reacted after you clicked in front of his face, the sound made him blink and his head returned to its place.

"Michael, if you have a lot on your mind, tell me, maybe we can work something out together." You were close, almost inches away. Your eyes and figure were illuminated by the light from the lamp on one side of the room.

"No, this time it's nothing" He wanted to turn away and grab the sheets, but something in that moment wouldn't let him pull away, as if he would die if he let you go. His hands, unsteady, slowly moved up to your jaw. You could barely read his expression; suddenly he was serious, but his eyes said the complete opposite.

He approached so carefully that the movement was imperceptible until his mouth was centimeters from yours. "Can we do this? In these three years, I always feel the same way when I'm with you." His voice was now a whisper, you could feel her breath close. That brought you a certain peace.

"Depressed or...?"

He let out a small laugh, his hand quickly moving to caress your cheek. "In love, okay?" Michael frowned humorously, your pessimism could be study material or something to console. "I only feel empty when you're not with me, so stay."

Something in your own gaze changed, everything was complicated, but Michael didn't seem scared this time, he was willing to take the risk and do crazy things, not everything was bad, not if he did it for you.

It was a simple move, you just moved a little closer to him, to his face. If it were up to you, you could have stared at him for hours, but you had waited too long to just exchange glances.

Michael's hands were gentle as he drew you closer. Your lips met, at first delicately, his hands tenderly cupping your face and hair, while you searched for a way to hold him close. Then his hands moved down to your hips and yours up to his cheeks.

The kiss ended, there was a silence, but it wasn't awkward, another question hung in the air.

"We're alone in this..." But your boyfriend's words felt different this time; with him so close, they no longer sounded like an affirmation of his loneliness, but an insinuation that slipped through the air like a letter slipped under the door.

This space was both of yours now, just you two, it didn't belong to any stranger although it might have seemed that way because of the nerves of the radical change of environment.

Now it was just you and Michael in the darkness.

You breathed with your head down, his fingers caressing your waist in a torturous way, but they stopped... when you started unbuttoning your shirt, or rather, Michael froze. It certainly wasn't due to sudden shyness because right after, he helped you remove the fabric from your shoulders. As it moved down, he approached your neck, leaving slow kisses that clung to your skin and then left a trail of saliva in their place.

At what point did it all start to burn? It felt cynical, the simplicity with which you were handling things now.

The fact that your shirt fell to the floor wasn't enough; his warm touch traveled over you to your back and unhooked your bra.

Michael take a breath when he saw your half-exposed body, his eyes had no shame, he watched you knowing he was allowed to do so.

Kisses filled your mouths again, the small sounds of friction were the only thing that could be heard.

"Please... take it off, babe" His words came out like a lost breath, Mikey was slowly losing his composure. You couldn't look him in the eyes because he was now pressed between your jaw and your neck.

You didn't hesitate to do as he asked. You took off your pants, trying not to lose your balance. When they fell to the floor, you kicked them aside, and they slid away, just like your shirt with your bra. You surrendered, as if you were laying down a gun and raising a white flag before a duel. Michael's soft laughter vibrated against your skin.

You looked up to meet Michael's gaze. He had pulled back to look into your eyes, his expression filled with adoration, affection, and something more—something that made you realize he could devour you at any moment, but not without your command. "Throw me a bone, darling." He whispered intimately, you were alone, yet it sounded as if you were keeping a secret.

Michael took off his shirt in front of you. When you saw his bare chest, you wanted to go straight to him and...

But he knelt down.

It happened in a second.

You felt a shiver run down your spine. He was so close, but you didn't back away. Your boyfriend's hands moved to your thighs, reaching your buttocks. You felt your heart beating too fast, until suddenly he raised his head, looking directly at you with those puppy-dog eyes. That said more than a thousand words, but it summed it all up.

"May I?"

You nodded silently, your cheeks turning a soft shade of red. From below, Michael's eyes remained fixed on yours, reflecting the dim light of the single lamp illuminating the room. "Okay," his voice was a whisper, but in your head it felt as if it resonated against every bone from your hip to your ankle.

Before you could think of anything else, his hands began to gently pull down the fabric of your panties, every touch feeling electric.

By the time the hem of the fabric reached your thighs, you were completely exposed. His face was level with your vagina. There was no doubt in Michael's eyes, he kissed your skin, moistening it, before his hands began to press against your thighs. His lips moved lower, and his tongue slipped between your folds, saliva reaching your clitoris. The kiss intensified, the warmth and softness were addictive to Michael, while you were giving your all to stay on your feet.

Your breaths turned into gasps, you didn't want to move but your legs went numb and you tried to stay firm against the wave of heat that rose throughout your body.

When you grew tired, Michael lifted you up –his arms around your waist– and carried you to the bed. You fell between the sheets with legs open, right after that he also got on the bed, without realizing it was a bit rough when he took off your panties and set them aside. The light, cold sensation of the sheets was immediately replaced by Michael's warm tongue against your wetness. The gentle sucking and licking had you delirious with stars, his tongue was soft and slippery; it felt different but so good. You clutched the pillow and moaned his name, but that didn't stop him, it only made it worse.

A crooked smile appeared on his face, making you grip the sheet a little tighter. You knew how unpredictable Michael could be.

Mikey pulled back a couple of inches, his hands sliding down and his thumbs beginning to part your lips, he had a perfect view of his dessert, watching as they separated stickily because of his saliva.

And his dilated gaze betrayed that he was thinking about a thousand other things at that moment, things he might keep to himself until his grave.

"Hey, don't play with that, okay?" You swallowed hard, trying to keep your composure, but it was difficult with your boyfriend staring at you like you were an ice cream cone in the summer.

Then, taking a breath, his tongue resumed its journey between your folds, fearlessly touching a sensitive spot. He pressed your clitoris with his fingers, just to annoy you. Internally, you cursed his name, could have sworn Michael was smiling as he devoured you, and he just fucking loved the way your fingers slid through his hair to bring him closer.

"Shit- Michael..." He barely heard your broken voice, it was low because you could hardly form thoughts.

It took you a while to realize it because of the overstimulation, but Michael's thumbs were now caressing you, tracing circles on your numb hips."Shhh... I've got you, sweetheart." His breathing was ragged and erratic, his lips still pressed against your skin, as if he needed it.

The silent room was filled with the sounds of wet kisses, ragged breaths, and muffled moans.

There's no better way to get used to a new home than by making "good memories".

The Mad Hatter is always in his enormous party garden, every day of the year is his unbirthday, so he invites all his friends over. They serve tea and eat cake but only the Mad Hatter can do it, because despite their best efforts, his metal and needle friends can't enjoy the feast as much as he does.

Rumors of his parties certainly spread fast. Maybe you're not invited, and that's actually a good thing, because there's a reason most people don't go: he's a little... crazy. Not even the Cheshire Cat knows why, but some believe it's due to the profound loneliness and guilt that always surrounds him. Whatever the reason, he's someone you have to be very careful around.

The host loves to wear elegant clothes for his celebrations, he always dresses in a tie and hat. His dark suits and porcelain-pale skin make his blue eyes stand out like hope and calm amidst the delirium that is Wonderland, but don't be fooled, because what glitters is usually valuable and brings good fortune, but in this world everything works in reverse.

Their parties are always chaotic, as chaotic as the labyrinth of tables and empty chairs that are occupied. His house is a place you should never enter, it's a grand mansion of polished stone and marble, with colorful windows, but its near-abandonment is evident from the dust that surrounds it, although no one really knows what's inside.

Guests are always welcome as long as they don't upset the host; a single broken cup could cost you your heart turned into cake, or tea if you prefer.

And maybe he was sane once too, maybe deep down he is still vulnerable, Maybe there is some reasoning at the bottom of his mind. But being crazy is the best way to deal with Wonderland, maybe you should be too.

⊹ ࣪ ˖

♱ Michael Clifford used to wander from town to town, usually with his gang of mercenaries. They weren't many, to be honest, but they always got the job done. But he's been walking alone for a while now, since the eclipse that cursed him. Being near him for too long can kill you, and yet you stayed, you were the only one who stayed, so he protects you day and especially night.

♱ He is somewhat distant when he is in front of others, but with you he behaves more relaxed, even playful, sometimes he pinches or bites you suddenly to annoy you.

♱ Whenever he gets hurt, you like to help him, even though Michael is stubborn. First, he tells you it's nothing, then he refuses when you insist, and finally, he lets you treat him. Deep down, you know it's not because he's upset with you, but because he's ashamed of himself.

♱ Michael holds your hand in very crowded places, he holds you tightly and doesn't let go until you are alone. He does the same when they're working; he doesn't trust any king, or any lackey or "friend", Michael simply doesn't trust anyone. He's only capable of turning his back on you and knowing you wouldn't betray him.

♱ You usually sleep together. 'Cause don't always have a place to stay at night because of the long, isolated journeys you make between regions and towns, but when you stop to rest, no matter where it is, you never sleep apart. Michael likes to have his arm around your shoulder, he says it's to protect you if a threat suddenly appears. But it also kept you warm during the cold night all you had to do was be in his arms, wrapped in his cloak. You can confirm that Michael always sleeps with a sword in his hand.

♱ Sometimes, after finishing his work and receiving his pay, Michael invites you for drinks at the first tavern you find. He loves to see you enjoy food and a couple of beers in a place safe from the cold after filling your hands with blood all day. It's one of the few moments when living by your side doesn't seem so dangerous for either of you.

⊹ ࣪ ˖

The King of Hearts is silent most of the time, he is usually found in his rose gardens. Thousands of roses within a great labyrinth, yet he has never gotten lost. How could he, when for him it is pure intuition?

Thousands of roses and he can't see a single one. If Wonderland had blessed him with a huge kingdom and as many subjects as he could ask for, it also had to take something away in return.

His eyes.

The king always walks side by side with the queen, but unlike her, no one dares to look him in the face. Not even his most formal attire prevents him from being intimidating, because of his size, his explosive attitude, his unwavering expression, and the way he condemns anyone to the gu!llotine.

Every day in the palace you can feel the constant anxiety and stress of everyone there, any mistake can provoke his anger, and believe me, there is nothing more terrifying and desperate than not even being able to breathe when the king is near. Or maybe there is something worse... silence.

When he's screaming at the top of his lungs for a guard's head to be cut off, everyone else can breathe because it's not their turn, but when there's only silence, it's overwhelming, completely overwhelming.

Nobody knows what's supposed to happen when there's only silence. But I'll tell you what.

He cries, he cries so much he could fill an ocean. His worse pain is something chained in his black heart, and he would k!ll anyone who tried to access it.

Every white rose is a loss, they must all be red. The last time he found one of another color, his screams echoed throughout the castle. More than anger, it was frustration. Everything had to be his way, but if it wasn't, he just felt powerless. Not all the lands of Wonderland, not all the slaves, not all the ornaments, not the hand of the most beautiful woman, not the cricket matches, not the enormous cakes could fill the void of never being enough.

So he will continue cutting off heads and making life impossible for every inhabitant until he is satisfied.

That's how it works in Wonderland.

⊹ ࣪ ˖

This summer, Ashton had invited you to his house for a couple of days. The question had come up naturally during a party with friends—nothing out of the ordinary; he'd invited other people over before. But this time it felt different, because it was going to be just the two of you, and you knew there was something between you, even though you never said it out loud. He always treated you with an almost romantic affection, often without even realizing it.

He had picked you up at your house on Friday. The car ride was cool and very chill; you both talked about how the last few months had been and listened to music most of the time.

You arrived at his place a little while later. Ashton parked the car in front of the garage, then got out to help you take your luggage out of the trunk. Even though it was nighttime, you could clearly see how big his house was, the main entrance protected by an elegant wooden gate and a large mural of shrubs covering the front.

You got out right after him to get your things, but Ashton already had your suitcase in his hands and dragged it to the door.

Once you crossed the gate into the front yard, you felt a chill, you were officially in his house, it was real.

Finally entered the house. It was warm and modern inside, with clean and tidy furniture. It felt almost sarcastic, knowing how chaotic Ashton could be. He had been out of town for a while, and it was noticeable from the things that looked strangely like they had been put away long ago, and how everything had remained still and silent ever since. You barely noticed Ashton had gone to leave your things in the guest room, you followed him to find out where it was, after all, you didn't know the place.

"Ashton...?" You went to the half-open door of the hallway, you met him face to face, he had already left your suitcase and was about to leave.

For a second both looked into each other's eyes, but then you let him out by stepping aside.

"I hope you feel comfortable, my house is your house," He said with a calm smile.

"Thanks" you replied, simply appreciating his attitude and hospitality.

There was a silence, but you were both so disconnected that you didn't move away or notice how strange it was. In your defense, Ashton's hazel eyes were beautiful, and in Ashton's defense, you were gorgeous.

After a brief blink, Ashton reacted. "Um... are you hungry? I can make you something to eat." He laughed to lighten the heavy atmosphere.

"Oh, yeah, sure, I'll help you." You realized it a little later, but it wasn't worth making it awkward.

You left the bedroom and went to the kitchen. Normally, you both made a lot of silly jokes and talked as if nothing was wrong, but being alone in that huge house felt... vulnerable, intimate, more so than you were used to.

While you and Ashton cooked, silence consumed you; a couple of glances now and then, not even intentional, maybe you just wanted something more, then you realized they shouldn't, and in the end you were just looking for confirmation of whether you were both doing the same.

They stopped when you put the chicken in the oven. Ashton was the first to speak.

"So... you've ever cooked something like this before? I think I've only done it once because, you know, I'm not usually home, and when I am, I tend to make simpler things. But since you're here and willing to help me" He wiped the sweat from her forehead with her wrist "I'm not going to miss this opportunity to make something delicious for both of us."

The topic was completely pointless, but it helped break the ice and brought a small smile to your face.

"Yeah, Ash, I used to make it at a friend's house, she's practically family but I don't think you've met her in person"

"No, if that were the case I would remember it "

"Just like you remembered to set the stopwatch?" you said, pointing behind him at the small stopwatch, he had forgotten to put it on again.

"Shit, this time I was going to put it on, but you distracted me, okay?" His tone was full of humor and lightness, it made him feel good to be by your side, even if it was weird or uncomfortable, he would never move away.

"Don't make excuses, you're a walking disaster." You laughed.

"Yes, of course, but you're Miss 'I even forget my name'" If he fell he would drag you with him.

Ashton walked to the living room, sat on the sofa, and gestured for you to follow him. You sat down next to him, and almost immediately his arm went around your shoulders. He even flinched nervously, Ash didn't know why he'd done it, but he wasn't going to back down, so he didn't move away.

That simple moment brought you a pure, almost foolish happiness. Because you'd have to lie to say you weren't interested in Ashton, but you knew he'd recently ended a long-term relationship, and you really didn't want to cause him any more trouble.

"You know what, I'm working on a new album with the guys," he blurted out casually while choosing a movie to put on TV.

"Wait, seriously!?" You turned to him in surprise; no one could throw a huge rock at a window and expect it not to break.

"Yeah, but it's a secret." I playfully cover your mouth, moving closer to your face without you noticing. "So please don't say anything. We're trying to innovate, in fact, we've never done anything like this before. I'm really excited about it, to be honest."

"Innovate in what way?" You wanted to know more, even though you were friends and had heard a couple of songs, you almost never talked about his band, partly because you never saw it as necessary and neither did he, but he looked so cute being excited about it that you really wanted to know more.

"Well, let's say riskier, but not like our fourth album, or like the fifth, but more like... the definition of risky..." He focused his gaze, trying to think.

"Like stupid and dangerous...?"

"Yes, something like that" Ashton laughed at your answer, actually, you had guessed correctly.

"In that case I guess it's not so different from the rest of your albums," you replied with a touch of humor, but Ash was the one who burst out laughing.

"What do you mean, that's not true," he called you by your name and then just started shaking your shoulders to annoy you.

"Yes, it is." You tried to hold back your laughter, but it was almost impossible.

You started playfully struggling with him to get him to let go, but instead he just pulled you closer and you didn't refuse the idea at all.

You knew very well that not everything was perfect, but sometimes just being able to spend time with him felt perfect. But there was nothing serious between you two beyond friendship, and just remembering that you were a passing guest saddened you a little, even though you knew it was the truth.

After watching La La Land for a while, Ashton had fallen asleep. You, meanwhile, cleaned yourself up after crying for the end, and got up to see if the food was ready. You walked from the dark living room, lit by the TV, to the kitchen, where the soft light from the lamps gave the place a cozy feel. You put on your gloves and carefully opened the oven to take out the chicken. You put the tray down on the counter and took off your gloves for a moment to go and tell Ashton that the food was ready.

Without realizing it, you went faster than usual, it wasn't even that important, but you wanted to talk to him again, to know what he would say, just to feel him again.

When you pulled his arm he barely moved, you thought it would be fun if he woke up suddenly –and you also wanted to get revenge for what happened earlier– but it didn't work.

Ashton looked really peaceful as he rested; you didn't want to wake him, but you had to. You sat down next to him on the sofa and began to gently shake his arm.

"Ashton," you said the first time, it was almost a whisper as if you didn't want to alarm anyone else even though you were alone in that big house "Ashton, the food's ready... are you hungry?"

"Nmm..." He hadn't woken up yet, he had simply settled into his seat.

"Ash..." You waited at least a minute, you were sleepy too but you didn't move away... Tiredly, you rested your cheek on his shoulder while still looking at his face, his beautiful face.

For a second you didn't mind leaving dinner aside, or ending the night so early, it was more than enough to sleep by his side, feeling his warmth as comfort from the cold night breeze.

After a while immersed in the sleep, you felt something more than that, someone was lifting you up. Your eyes opened slightly; Ashton was carrying you in his arms down the hall. His hands supporting your body gave you a feeling of tranquility. You closed your eyes again, trusting completely.

"Ashton" You buried your face in his chest, your hand gripping his hoodie. "Don't leave me alone..."

"Are you sure?" he said softly, trying not to disturb your sleep. "I'll take you to the guest room so you can sleep. I'll save dinner for tomorrow. Don't worry."

"Please." You pulled back slightly to look at him in the eyes, sleepiness was still evident on your face, but your expression was firm.

Silence fell, but a silence heavy with unspoken words. They were no longer at a party where noise and people interfered with what was obvious, nor were there friends to soften every glance and every flirtation with silly jokes.

Just you and him in the dark of the night.

Ashton let out a sigh, giving in, turned around, and walked to his room. His steps were slower than usual; this time there was no hurry or urgency. When he reached the white door, his breath caught in his throat, he was more nervous than before.

Inside, it was spacious, moonlight filtered through the closed blinds. He placed you on his bed very carefully, as if you were made of porcelain. It was unintentional, but he ended up on top of you to keep his balance.

Your gaze was gentle, you could only think about how simple everything was, just two friends who felt more than they should. It was as simple as you wanted to kiss him, as simple as his relationship had already ended and you could do it if he wanted to too.

"Could you...?" The words caught in your throat. "Can we-?"

Ashton's gaze also softened, as if he had been waiting for only a crumb of the affection that you never quite managed to express. The calm transformed into a smile.

"Of course we can..." he said softly and tenderly, moving closer to your lips. He was looking to finally give you the kisses he'd been saving up.

Your hands reached for his jaw to pull him closer, and when you finally kissed, you felt an enormous weight disappear from your body, and Ashton surely felt it too because when he felt your fingers against his skin he moved closer to you, the kiss became more intense. Ash settled on top of you to be more comfortable, now you knew you were going to be like that for a while.

Between kisses and gasps, the question suddenly arose.

Ashton moved four centimeters away from you, enough to be able to talk.

"Do you want to swim?" The words came out while he was still trying to catch his breath.

"What...?"

You two went to the courtyard, and as soon as you did, you felt the night breeze against your skin, and stepping on the grass in that state wasn't pleasant either. You left the house behind and walked through the dark garden to where the chairs and umbrella were.

"Damn, it's cold... I'm starting to regret bringing this swimsuit." You put your hands on your shoulders to cover yourself a little.

"Yeah, but I think the adrenaline makes it more fun." Ashton reached the pool, looking around and trying to calculate how much it would hurt to get in.

Ash was only guided by the distant lights of the house and the moon, because he couldn't see a damn thing, but he still thought it was a good idea because he was about to jump.

The darkness only made the pool look deeper than normal, you knew there was a bottom, there had to be a bottom, but even so, it didn't seem like a good idea for you to enter so late.

Without thinking twice, Ashton carelessly jumped into the water. It was freezing, no doubt, but he was convinced you'd be fine. He turned to you. "Aren't you coming?"

You took a step back without realizing it.

"I just want to... wait a while, it must be cold." You hesitated, looking at the edge. You felt a little embarrassed; something told you that if you went in, it wouldn't just be "Swim and you'll be fine". But you didn't want to keep running away, so you sat on the shore, dipping your toes in the water. "Ash... I don't know if I'll be able to go in with you, I don't even know how to swim."

"I know, dear." Ashton's voice came out with a touch of humor and tenderness, which calmed you a little. For him it was simple, but he knew it wasn't for you, and he completely respected that. He moved closer to the edge, placing his hands on either side of your knees. "and yes, it's really cold, but it's okay, trust me, I won't let you have a bad time." He extended his hand, his gaze understanding and gentle. Maybe it was agonizing to wait so long to have you close, but he knew how to cherish every moment with you and knew it would be worth it when you finally took the step.

Your eyes lingered on his for a long time. You wanted to trust him, but it was already hard enough having your legs freezing. You'd come all this way just for him; you really wanted to be with him, to be able to hold him.

Finally, you took a deep breath and went inside the pool, you let out a gasp because of the cold water that suddenly awakened your senses. Partly trusting that when you entered the water his hands would hold you. And so it was, your body was submerged in the water, when it reached your collarbone he grabbed your hip, pressing you against the walls of the pool.

His hands were warm compared to the cold water, and although you couldn't even touch the bottom with your toes, you trusted that he wouldn't let you sink.

Your arms encircled Ashton's neck and your chests pressed together, his breath reached your neck.

Without pressing you he moved away from the edge taking you with him. Once in the middle of the pool Ashton couldn't reach the bottom either, but that was okay.

"Now... are you ready?" Part of his concentration was on swimming without letting go of you, but his tone showed some affection and patience.

"Yes..." You hadn't even realized it, but you were looking at him as if he were the only thing that existed at that moment, your eyes fixed on Ashton, although his were making sure to look around carefully so as not to lose his balance.

At one point he stopped swimming and turned towards you. Both of you started to go down, first taking a breath.

Once under the water it was so cold that your breathing quickened, but you still didn't let go of Ashton. His body was the only warmth you could feel; Your hands kept moving over him as you tried to hold on, but there was no good way to do it because he was so much bigger than you. Until he wrapped his arms around you. And maybe you were so focused on the sensations that you didn't even notice his soft kiss on your neck.

The lack of air underwater and the cold gradually faded away.

you'll be fine.

you were in his arms.

You woke up with a start, gasping for breath you hadn't known you'd been holding.

You sat up trying to calm down.

A light layer of sweat still covered your naked body, your breathing slowed. It had been a dream, so you decided not to dwell on it and lay back down on the bed next to Ashton.

He caught you immediately, pulling you close to his chest and gently kissing your forehead. Your hands clung to his back as they had been doing all night. Ash was half asleep, but his gesture brought a smile to your face.

Trusting him hadn't been so bad after all.