: 007 between rounds - boxer!hollis x cutwoman!reader
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cw: social media, texts, arrival to mexico city, nearing end of week two.
content info: boxing au, touch as communication, injury care, tending wounds, professional boundaries, emotional messy boxer, reckless boxer, slow burn
disclaimer: all people in fic r aged up.
summary: you built your reputation the hard way. quietly, carefully. one fight at a time. by the time people stop questioning you, fighters are requesting you. across the country, hollis is building a reputation of his own. brilliant. reckless. impossible to control. so when his team calls and asks you to join his corner, you already know what everyone else does. he doesn't listen. but when the bell rings and blood starts running down his face, you're the only one he looks at between rounds.
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the next morning comes too fast. quiet and way too early.
the apartment feels different in the daylight, less forgiving. everything from last night is sitting just under the surface.
you’re the first one up, or close to it.
your hair is pulled back, your hoodie is on and moving around the kitchen quietly.
you make yourself coffee and you have a water bottle with you.
your phone sits on the counter. the screen is dark but you already checked it, more than once.
pitter-patter. pitter-patter. pitter-patter.
you glance up, its Hollis. he is still half-asleep. he has t-shirt with sweats on. his eyes find you immediately, like they always do.
“…you’re up early,” he says with a rough voice.
you shrug slightly, “couldn’t sleep.”
he nods like that makes sense. my he moves into the kitchen and grabs a bottle from the fridge. he stands a little too close when he passes.you don’t move.
silence again. it’s comfortable but not comfortable.
his phone buzzes on the counter. he glances at it then ignores it.
before you can say anything—“please tell me we’re not leaving yet.” it’s Nate, dragging himself into the kitchen. his hood is up, he’s half awake.
“we are,” you say without looking at him.
Ryan’s voice comes from behind him, “you packed?”
Roman appears last, already dressed and his bag slung over his shoulder.
“car’s coming in twenty,” he says.
Nate straightens immediately, “twenty??”
“you had all night,” Roman replies.
chaos starts now. it’s very light though, everyone is still tired. everyone’s moving at once. bags are getting piled on one another, keys are jangling, phones are getting charged.
you step back slightly, out of the middle of it.
in the moment of it, Hollis looks at you again. something unspoken is there, you hold it.
while everyone is finishing up, your phone buzzes. it’s Marcus, the car is here soon. “alright,” you say. they all look at you.
“are you guys ready to go?”
“our car is almost here.” you glance between them—and panic takes over Nate’s face.
Ryan smirks immediately, “no way you’re not packed.”
Nate runs a hand through his hair, “i thought we had more time.”
“you had all night,” Roman says.
“that’s not helpful,” Nate shoots back.
you step a little closer, “Nate, I can wait for you if you’re not ready,” you say calmly. “our flight doesn’t leave for another two hours.
a small pause, “don’t stress it. i wouldn’t let it leave without you.”
he exhales, looking relieved now, “…please do, y/n.”
Ryan grabs his bag. Roman already has his over his shoulder.“we’ll meet you there,” Ryan says. Roman nods once. they leave, door closing behind them.
now it’s just you and Nate. oh, and Hollis.
Nate disappears into the hallway. You and Hollis follow him into his and Hollis’ room.
Nate turns in a slow circle looking at his half-packed side of the room, “this is bad.”
you glance past him. there’s clothes everywhere, his bag open and nothing is folded.
Hollis lets out a quiet breath, “you’re wasting time,” he mutters.
“then help me,” Nate shoots back.
Hollis doesn’t argue. he moves past you into the room, you follow. you can’t lie, it’s a mess.
you kneel near the bag and start to fold what you can.
Nate’s pacing, grabbing random things.
“not like that,” you say.
he looks at you, “what do you mean not like that?”
“you’re just throwing things in,” you reply.
“and you’ll regret it later,” you say simply.
he sighs but hands you a shirt anyway, “fine.”
Hollis is quieter, he’s at the dresser grabbing things. actually organizing, you notice that. he looks cute.
every now and then he glances at you, not long but you feel it every time.
“you have nice clothes.” you tell Nate.
“thanks.” he says smiling.
“…so why are you bringing like five of the same shirts in different colors?”
“options,” he says simply.
Hollis huffs quietly, “you don’t.”
“you don’t even pack like this,” Nate says.
“because I don’t make it harder than it needs to be.”
you laugh softly. it slips out before you can stop it.
Hollis looks at you again just for that.your smile lingers a second longer than it should then fades, you go back to folding. “you’re sharing with him, right?” you ask Nate.
“yeah,” he says, “i gave you my room.”
you glance up, “i know. i’ve said thank you. many times.”
he shrugs, “i’m a good person sometimes.”
you shake your head slightly, but you’re smiling again. it feels easy and normal talking to the guys. it could be because they’re closer to your age than any of your past clients. or they’re actually really funny. well, whatever it is, there’s something more.
when you reach for something, your hand brushes Hollis’. you both pause for a second before continuing like nothing happened, acting like you didn’t notice it but you did.
“okay—done,” Nate says suddenly, zipping the bag. relief is all over his face. ”…i owe you both.”
“yeah, you do,” Hollis says.
you stand, brushing your hands off slightly. “let’s go then,” you say. another pause. you glance at Hollis. he’s already looking at you, again. he looks away first, “yeah,” he says.
“let’s go.” you follow and grab your bag, heading for the door. Hollis follows right after, not saying anything, just behind you.
the air is colder, bags get tossed in, doors open.
Ryans in the front, Roman slides in behind him. Nate hesitates looking between seats then he looks at you. then at Hollis. “…i’m sitting in the back,” he decides.
no one argues, you move toward the middle seat—but before you can—Hollis opens the door for you. a pause.
you glance at him, “thanks.” you get in.
he slides in after, next to you. close. the door shuts. the car pulls off. no one talks at first, the music is low and the city is still waking up around you. your shoulder brushes his slightly. neither of you move, you look out the window but you can feel it. him. still there. just like last night. nothing feels settled, not yet.
LAX is already busy. it’s 8 am. the lights are too bright and it’s too loud. rolling suitcases are rolling against the tile. overhead announcements keep going off. people are moving in every direction.
you step inside with them and immediately feel it. it’s subtle at first, a glance, a second look, a whisper.
“wait… is that—?” Nate hears it first, he smirks slightly, “…here we go,” he mutters.
Ryan exhales. Roman doesn’t react. Hollis keeps walking like it’s nothing. but it’s not nothing.
“excuse me—hi, sorry—can we get a picture?” a girl, phone already halfway up.
Hollis slows, “yeah,” he says easily.
just like that, it starts. more people recognize them, more voices, more footsteps coming closer.
you step slightly to the side instinctively, giving them space. as you’re waiting, going through your messages. Marcus send you something.
you glance up instinctively. across the gate, Hollis is leaning back in his chair, hood up, talking to Ryan while Nate says something dramatic with his hands. then like he feels you looking— his eyes lift, straight to yours.
you put your phone away and another phone is suddenly in your direction, “can you take it?” someone asks.
you blink then nod, “yeah, of course.” you take the phone, step back and frame them. Hollis glances at you for a second. you lift the phone slightly, “ready?”
you hand it back, “thank you!” the girl says. you give her a small smile, “yeah.”
another phone, “can you take one with Nate too?”
you laugh softly under your breath, “yeah, i got you.”
it keeps going. picture after picture. Hollis. Nate. Ryan. Roman. sometimes all together, sometimes separate. you’re the one holding the camera, you adjust angles, step back and tilt slightly. you don’t even realize you’re smiling.
Hollis notices. between photos—his eyes find you, again. like he’s watching that now, not the fans, you. his smile is a little bigger as he watches you give directions.
“can we get one with all of you?”
you pause, “i can take it,” you say automatically.
“no wait—” someone says, “you should be in it too.”
you blink, “…no, it’s okay.” you hand the phone back, “i got it.”you step back again. Hollis watches that too, the way you don’t step in, the way you don’t take the space.
it dies down slowly, but not completely. because then come the questions.
“are you guys fighting in Mexico City??”
“who are you up against?”
Ryan answers one, “next week, yeah.”
Nate adds something else. Roman keeps it minimal. Hollis says less.
someone looks at you, “are you part of the team?”
you pause for a second, everyone else does too.
“what do you do?” they ask.
“she keeps us looking good after we get beaten the hell up,” Nate cuts in.
you glance at him. he grins, “something like that,” you say.
a few laughs but the attention lingers.
“have you been working with them long?”
“are you going to Mexico too?”
you nod again, “yeah.” you keep it short and controlled, not wanting to allow them to walk all over you.
Hollis’ gaze flicks to you again, sharper this time. it’s more… intentional, like something just changed.
“alright, we gotta move,” Roman says finally breaking it. “our flight is almost here.”
that works. the people nod and step back. a few last pictures. a few last “good lucks.”
you guys are moving again toward security. you glance over and Hollis is already looking at you. he doesn’t look away.
as you’re approaching security, it’s quieter, more contained. no more cameras. no more questions. just lines and bins. the energy doesn’t reset, it lingers from outside. from the way people looked at you. from the way he did. by the time you reach the gate, everyone’s quieter. phones out. bags at their feet.
“boarding in five,” Roman says, checking the screen.
Nate drops into a seat, “wake me up when we land.”
“you won’t even be asleep yet,” Ryan replies.
you stay standing, shifting your bag on your shoulder. Hollis leans against the wall nearby. not next to you but not far either. his eyes find you again briefly.
“they’re boarding,” Roman says.
you step forward with them and get your ticket scanned and then you’re on.
walking through and it’s just narrow aisles. overhead bins are slamming shut. people are already settling in.
“who’s sitting where?” Nate asks, already looking lost.
Ryan gestures, “I’m aisle.”
Roman slides into the row behind.
Nate hesitates as he glances between you and Hollis. that look again, “I’m sitting here,” he says finally. too quick. too intentional. you notice it, so does Ryan. but no one says anything.
you move toward your seat—the middle, of course you get the middle. you slide in and set your bag under the seat.
a second later, Hollis steps in beside you. window. the aisle fills and seatbelts click.
overhead announcements start. you stare forward, hands folded loosely in your lap. he leans back in his seat. your arms brush slightly, neither of you moves. the silence between you isn’t awkward. it feels heavy.
his phone buzzes. he checks it this time and everything shifts slightly. you don’t look but you feel it. his posture changes and his jaw tightens.
your gaze flicks sideways—quick. his screen lights his face and you see the name. Melissa. you look away immediately. like you didn’t see, not wanting to be seen as nosy.
Melissa: so you just disappear now?
Melissa: no call? no text?
Melissa: and now you’re in mexico with them?
he exhales quietly. types then stops. your fingers tighten slightly in your lap. you don’t look at him but you’re listening to the silence, to what he doesn’t say. his phone buzzes again.
Melissa: i saw your post.
his thumb hovers over the screen, you feel it. the shift in the air between you. it’s closer, tighter even. he locks his phone. doesn’t answer her, not yet. you finally glance at him for a second.
“everything okay?” you ask casually.
he looks at you and holds it. a beat. “yeah.”
you nod like you believe him.
the plane starts to move. it’s slow at first then steady. you look forward again.
everything feels different. because she’s there. even from a distance. and whatever this is—isn’t just between you two anymore.
the plane is dim now. most people are asleep, or trying to be.
the sound of the plane fills everything. it’s steady and constant. Ryan’s asleep across the aisle. Roman’s got headphones on. Nate’s completely knocked out in front of you somewhere. but you’re still awake, barely. beside you—Hollis scrolls lazily through his phone. the screen light catching against his jaw for a second before it disappears again.
you glance over without thinking, he notices immediately, “…what,” he asks quietly.
you shake your head, “nothing.”
his mouth tilts slightly, “you do that a lot.”
“look at me like you’re trying to figure something out.”
you huff softly, “maybe i am.”
that gets his attention, fully this time. he locks his phone and turns slightly toward you, “…and?” he asks.
you look at him for a second then shrug. “i don’t know yet.”
a quiet laugh leaves him, low, sleepy. the plane hums around you. lights flickering softly overhead.
“when’d you start traveling?” he asks after a second.
you glance down at your hands, thinking. “young.” a beat. “like thirteen, maybe younger.”
he nods slowly, “for work?”
you let out a quiet breath, “my dad.” you lean your head back against the seat. “he hated leaving me.”
his expression shifts slightly, more attentive now, “so you just went everywhere with him?”
you nod once, “competitions. training camps. clients.” a beat.“i missed a lot of normal stuff. ”you laugh quietly. not really because it’s funny, “school dances. football games. birthdays.”
he watches you carefully, “…that sucks.”
you shrug lightly, “it is what it is.”
“…i had the opposite,” he says after a second. you glance over. he leans further back in his seat, looking ahead now, “i was normal for a while.”
you raise a brow slightly, “you?”
he huffs a laugh, “yeah.” a beat.“i didn’t even take boxing serious until junior year.”
that surprises you, you can’t hide it. “…seriously?”
he nods, “before that i was making music.”
your expression changes immediately. “wait.” you turn more toward him now. “music?”
his grin appears for a second. quick. “don’t laugh.”
he shakes his head slightly, “soundcloud rapper.”
you stare at him then immediately laugh, quiet enough not to wake anyone— but it’s real.
he looks offended, “you said you wouldn’t.”
he laughs softly under his breath. “my dad’s in a band,” he explains. “my mom works in music too.” a beat. “PR stuff. she owns a company.”
you blink, “that actually makes so much sense.”
“what’s that supposed to mean.”
“you just have that vibe.”
you gesture vaguely toward him, “…like you definitely knew how to use recording software at fifteen.”
he laughs harder at that, quietly. head dropping slightly for a second. you stare at him while he does. because he looks different like this. he’s less sharp and guarded.
“you really did normal school stuff?” you ask.
“yeah.” he nods. “football games. parties. all that.” a beat.“i liked it.”
you look down slightly, thinking about that. “i don’t think i ever got attached to normal stuff long enough to miss it.”
he looks at you again, more carefully this time. “that’s kinda sad.”
you shrug lightly, “i’m fine.”
“didn’t say you weren’t.”
that lands quieter than you expect.
you pull your headphones from your bag after a second, untangling them slowly.
“trying to.” you plug one side in and pause then hold the other earbud toward him.
his eyes flick down to it. then back to you, “serious?”
you shrug lightly, “unless your music taste sucks too.”
he takes the earbud without hesitation. your fingers brush briefly. neither of you comments on it. music fills the silence between you. it’s soft, late-night sounding. your eyes grow heavier after a while. the warmth of the plane. the music. the exhaustion. beside you—he stays awake longer. occasionally glancing over at you. you don’t realize it happens. somewhere between songs—your shoulder slips against his. then slowly—your head settles there too. against him. he’s warm and cozy. his entire body stills for half a second. he looks down at you carefully, making sure you’re actually asleep (you are, completely). head resting against him. music still low in your shared headphones. his expression softens slightly, something quieter now. because this feels different in a way. you trust him without even realizing it. and for the rest of the flight— he doesn’t move away once.
the plane lands gently, soft enough that you barely feel it at first. the shift in pressure,the wheels against the runway. the quiet ding overhead. your eyes stay closed for another second. you’re warm and comfortable, too comfortable.
you realize slowly. your head is resting against something warm. solid. someone. your eyes open immediately. the window beside you is bright now. Mexico City outside. beside you is Hollis, still sitting there, still letting you lean against him. his head turns slightly when he feels you move. hazel eyes already on you. he’s awake. your stomach drops instantly. you pull back too fast.
“oh my god.” your voice comes out quieter than you meant. you’re embarrassed, “i’m sorry.”you fix your hoodie sleeves quickly. avoiding eye contact for half a second, “i didn’t mean to fall asleep on you.”
Hollis just looks at you, completely calm. like this is the least shocking thing that’s happened all week, “you were tired.”
you cringe slightly anyway, “still.” a beat. “you should’ve moved me.”
his gaze lingers on your face for a second longer. he does that almost-smile again, “didn’t really want to.”
your breath catches slightly, hard enough that you hate yourself for it. you look away quickly toward the aisle. Ryan’s awake now. Roman too. Nate is staring directly at you, wide awake for once. his expression slowly shifts. realization. then a grin.
“oh my god.” you immediately sit up straighter. “don’t.”
Nate points between you and Hollis dramatically, “YOU—”
“nate,” Roman cuts in immediately. without even looking up from his phone, “quiet, please.”
Ryan’s trying not to laugh. which honestly makes it worse. you cover your face briefly with your hand, “i hate all of you.”
“that’s crazy,” Nate says still grinning. “because Hollis clearly doesn’t.”
Hollis kicks the back of Nate’s seat immediately, hard enough to make Nate laugh louder.
despite the embarrassment burning in your face—you smile too. it’s small, accidental. Hollis notices that immediately.
after pulling yourselves together, you guys walk out. the sun hits first. it settles against your skin instantly. even inside the airport. people start moving fast.
overhead announcements in spanish echo through the terminal. rolling suitcases. voices overlapping.
Nate pulls his hood off immediately, “it’s so bright” he complains.
Ryan laughs once, “because we’re in mexico.”
“i know that,” Nate mutters.
Roman adjusts the strap of his bag over his shoulder. he’s focused already. Hollis walks beside you, close enough that your arms brush every few steps in the crowd. neither of you says anything about it, from all the constant closeness, it’s normal by now. you follow the group through the airport. past signs. security. bright overhead lights.
but the deeper you get, the more obvious it becomes. people recognize them here too. it’s not everyone but a good chuck of people. a guy passing slows slightly, does a double take then nudges his friend, “bro”
Nate notices first, he grins immediately. “here we go again.”
“keep walking,” Roman says. but it’s already spreading, phones out, whispers.
you glance over. Hollis barely reacts but his posture changes slightly. hes more alert, more aware. fight mode. that changes the entire energy around him. he doesn’t feel soft right now. he feels prepared. the closer you get to baggage claim, the more the atmosphere shifts. now there are actual fight posters. huge screens. promos. ads rotating above the terminal. names. dates. weights.
you stop slightly when you see it. his face. up on a screen. bright against black and red graphics.
2HOLLIS. MEXICO CITY — 3.26.26
beneath it—his opponent’s name. the realization settles heavier now. this is real, not sparring, not training, a fight. you glance at him instinctively. he’s already looking at the screen too. expression unreadable, focused.
Ryan whistles low, “that’s kinda hard.”
Nate immediately takes a picture, “oh i’m posting this.”Roman shakes his head slightly but he’s grinning. “focus.” even he’s staring.
you look back at the screen one more time then at Hollis. something about seeing him there—larger than life does something to you and maybe he notices. when he looks over, his eyes catch yours instantly. you hold it for a second too long.
“hey.” a voice cuts through it. everyone turns. two men approaching with official badges around their necks. it’s fight staff. one of them smiles immediately. “welcome to mexico city.”
handshakes start. Ryan first. Roman. Nate. then Hollis. the energy shifts again the second they greet him. it’s more serious now, more professional.
“big week,” one of them says looking Hollis over carefully. “you ready?”
Hollis nods once. “yeah.” not cocky, not nervous, certain.
the staff member’s eyes shift to you, “and you are?”
before you can answer—“she’s with us,” Hollis says immediately. everyone goes quiet for half a second. you look at him. he doesn’t, he just reaches for his suitcase like he didn’t just say it like that.
the staff nods quickly, “perfect. transportation’s outside.” everyone starts moving again, toward the exit.
the doors slide open and the city hits all at once. there’s traffic, music, and noise. people are everywhere. Mexico City feels alive. it’s loud, fast, and electric.
Nate looks overwhelmed immediately, “this is insane.”
Ryan laughs. Roman’s already scanning the street. you step outside beside Hollis. the air brushes against your skin and your hair. he’s already looking at you again when you glance over. even here—in all this chaos—he still notices where you are first. a car horn blares somewhere nearby. music echoes down the street.
fight week has officially started. everything feels bigger now. the tension. the attention. him, especially him.
your guys’ ride drops you off at the hotel. the lobby is loud. not party loud, fight loud. staff are moving fast. phones ringing. rolling suitcases across marble floors. people wearing are credentials around their necks. trainers, media, and fighters are everywhere. walking up there’s crowds of fans holding posters, dressed up, cheering.
the second you guys walk in, the atmosphere shifts again. not everybody recognizes them but enough do. heads turn instantly.
Nate notices immediately,he adjusts his hoodie like he’s on a runway. “we’re famous internationally now,” he says.
Roman’s focused. he’s looking around at everyone, silently watching. you stay close to the group as they move toward check-in.
the hotel is beautiful. dark wood. gold lighting. open balconies overlooking the city. everything feels warm here, it’s alive. you glance toward the massive windows near the lobby entrance. Mexico City is amazing. there’s cars, music is playing somewhere in the distance. people are everywhere.
it almost distracts you enough until a camera flash goes off nearby. you blink slightly. someone’s taking pictures, not professional, just people. fans.
he turns slightly. suddenly he’s back in that mode again, controlled and observed.
the fan asks for a picture, then another.
Ryan gets stopped too. Nate immediately inserts himself into one without being asked.
“they love me,” Nate replies.
you laugh quietly under your breath. Hollis hears it, his eyes flick toward you instantly. for half a second everything else disappears again.
“reservation for Marcus Vale,” Roman says at the front desk. the receptionist nods quickly. typing fast.
you shift your bag higher on your shoulder, your body finally starting to feel the exhaustion now from the travel, the airport, the heat, and attention.
“rooms are ready,” the receptionist says. keycards slide across the counter. Roman takes his first, Ryan second, Nate immediately peeks over the desk, “who am i with?”
“Ryan,” Roman answers before the receptionist can.
Nate groans dramatically, “he snores.”
“you talk in your sleep,” Ryan shoots back.
you shake your head slightly then reach for your keycard. going to grab it, Hollis grabs it first. you look at him. he glances down at the number,then hands it to you. “third floor,” he says.
you take it slowly, “thanks.”
“what room are you in?” he asks casually, too casual.
Ryan looks up immediately, Roman notices too.
you glance at the number again, “314.”
he nods once, “…i’m 318.”
your rooms close, too close for Ryan not to notice. you see it on his face instantly, the almost-smirk but he says nothing, for now.
“elevator,” Roman says, already walking away. everyone follows.
the ride up is quieter, everyone’s tired now. Nate is leaning against the wall half asleep. Ryan is scrolling on his phone. Roman is checking tomorrow’s schedule. Hollis is standing beside you, close enough that your shoulders brush every time the elevator shifts slightly.
the doors open on the third floor. everyone slows, bags dragging behind them now.
“meeting tomorrow at nine,” Roman says. “don’t disappear.”
Nate points at Hollis immediately, “that’s directed at you.”
Hollis doesn’t react which somehow makes it worse. you stop at your door, keycard in hand. everyone else keeps moving slowly down the hallway. except him, he lingers.
you glance at him once then pause slightly, “…oh wait.”
everyone looks back. Ryan already looks suspicious, “what?”
you pull your phone from your pocket and scroll once, “Marcus texted me.”
Roman straightens a little immediately, “what’d he say?”
“he’s getting here saturday morning.”
a beat. Nate blinks, “wait.”
Ryan looks at you, “…so who’s in charge until then?”
you lift your gaze slowly, “me.”
Nate bursts out laughing, “oh we’re screwed.”
“seriously,” Ryan mutters.
Roman looks mildly concerned. Hollis just watches you quietly, looking interested.
you cross your arms slightly, “training starts at five a.m.”immediate groans. “and ends at eight p.m.”
“absolutely not,” Nate says instantly.
Ryan shakes his head, “you’re evil.” Roman already looks exhausted.
you try to keep a straight face. really, you do. but then Hollis notices it first. the tiny smile pulling at the corner of your mouth. his eyes narrow slightly, “you’re joking.”
you finally laugh softly, “yeah.”
the relief is immediate. Nate puts a hand over his heart dramatically, “don’t do that shit again.”
“you believed me too fast,” you reply.
“because you sounded serious,” Ryan says.
you shrug slightly, “i can be.”
Hollis lets out a quiet laugh under his breath, enough to make you glance at him. he’s already looking at you again.
“so what are we actually doing?” Nate asks.
you lift your phone again, “i got us tickets.”
Roman pauses. Ryan looks up, “tickets for what?”
you smile slightly now, “…lucha libre.”
Nate loses his mind immediately, “NO WAY.”
you nod, “Arena México. tomorrow night. 8:30.”
Nate points at you dramatically, “you’re my favorite person here.”
“that changes every day,” Roman mutters.
Ryan shakes his head, grinning slightly, “that’s hard.”
even Roman looks impressed now, “good choice,” he says.
you glance toward Hollis instinctively, his gaze is already on you. “…you’ve been before?” he asks.
you shake your head, “always wanted to.” a beat. “i figured if we were coming to Mexico City, we should actually see Mexico City.”
something in his expression shifts slightly at that. it softens, just a little.
“damn,” Nate says, already pulling out his phone, “i’m posting this.”
“don’t post the location,” Roman says immediately.
Ryan starts toward his room, “i’m showering first.”
Nate points at you once more as he backs away down the hallway, “you scared me with the five a.m. thing.”
he groans dramatically before disappearing.
the hallway quiets again. without anyone planning it—it’s just you and Hollis left standing there, again. he leans lightly against the wall beside his door. looking at you for a second longer than necessary.“lucha libre,” he says quietly.
you nod once, “you hate the idea?”
his mouth tilts slightly, “nah.” a beat. “i think i’ll like seeing it with you.”
and there it is again. that feeling, the one that’s been impossible to ignore.
your hotel room is quiet. the sunlight spills through the curtains reflecting on your face. Mexico City moves loudly somewhere below you. you’re sitting cross-legged near the edge of the bed, half unpacked suitcase open beside you. your laptop sits nearby, untouched.
your phone buzzes. you glance down. Hollis.
your stomach flips slightly at that last text. stupidly. you hate that it does. you stare at the screen another second then finally type back.
you roll your eyes immediately but you’re already getting up.
the elevator doors slide open into the lobby and there he is, leaning against one of the pillars near the entrance. he’s wearing white beater, black sweats hanging low on his hips, and a black patterned bandana pulling his hair back off his face.
he looks up the second you step out and pauses slightly.
you suddenly feel very aware of your outfit. you’re wearing white sweats, a black tube top with hair down and minimal makeup.
both of you look comfortable, wear nearly the same outfit just opposite colors. you almost didn’t come down looking like this but now he’s staring like you hung the moon.
his eyes flick over you once before meeting yours again, “…hey.” a beat. “you actually came.”
you scoff lightly, “you literally begged.”
his mouth tilts slightly, “worked though.”
heat creeps into your face instantly. you look away first.
he pushes off the pillar, “c’mon.”
you fall into step beside him as he heads toward the exit, “where are we going?” you ask.
you glance at him, “still not specific.”
he looks over at you, “you complain a lot.”
“you texted me like a lost puppy ten minutes ago.”
he laughs quietly at that. it catches you off guard a little.
the warm Mexico City air hits the second you both step outside. sunlight is reflecting off buildings. there’s music everywhere.
you walk beside him down the crowded sidewalk. close enough that your arms brush every now and then. he keeps glancing at you and he’s not subtle about it either.
you notice every single time, “what?” you finally ask.
he shrugs slightly, “nothing.”
you laugh under your breath, “you’re actually incapable of answering that question.”
“maybe.” a beat. “…you look nice.” the words land so casually you almost miss them, almost.
you glance at him immediately, “oh.”
he keeps walking like he didn’t just say something that made your heartbeat stutter, “thank you, Hollis”
his expression softens slightly like he likes that reaction, way too much.
the streets get busier the farther you walk. small food stands. people talking loudly in spanish. the smell of grilled meat and coffee in the air.
you’re looking around at everything now, taking it in, and Hollis notices that too.
“you really never been here before?” he asks.
you shake your head, “no, it’s really nice though.” you pause near a small stand with colorful signs hanging above it. “this is insane.”
he watches you instead of the stand, “yeah.”
you glance back at him, “you’re not even looking.”
his eyes stay on you another second too long, “i know.”
and there it is again. that feeling. warm and slow. the kind that makes everything around you start fading into the background.
you guys end up at a small food stand tucked between two crowded streets. it’s filled with plastic tables, bright signs, and music playing from an old speaker somewhere behind the counter. it smells like grilled meat and coffee and something sweet you can’t place.
you’re sitting across from him now, paper tray in front of you. the drinks are sweating slightly in your hand from the heat.
everything feels weirdly normal. it’s fight but it doesn’t feel like it. there isn’t any tension and there’s isn’t people staring.
Hollis leans back slightly in his chair, one arm resting lazily against the table. his bandana’s slipping back just enough to show more of his hair now. you notice immediately.
he catches you staring, “…what.”
you shake your head quickly, “nothing.”
his eyes narrow slightly; “you’re a terrible liar.”
you laugh quietly under your breath.
“that’s literally your line.”
you take another bite of your food and pause slightly. you glance back at him, “can i ask you something?”
“was your name 2hollis on soundcloud?” the reaction is immediate, he chokes slightly on his drink.
you blink, “oh my god.” you find it kind of cute how he got taken aback.
he looks away instantly, “no.” you stare at him, “that was way too fast.”
you lean back slightly, suspicious now, “then what was it?”
a beat. he already looks annoyed with himself which only makes it funnier.
you stop moving completely. then look at him. “…your name was drippysoup?”
he groans immediately, “don’t start.”
you’re trying SO hard not to laugh, really. but the smile breaks through anyway, “that’s actually insane.”
he drops his head briefly into his hand, “i knew i shouldn’t have told you.”
you laugh softly again. it’s not mean, or mocking, it’s genuine and slowly he realizes that.
you glance down at your drink for a second before looking back up, “i listened to your music.”
that gets his attention instantly. he looks at you properly now, “what.”
you shrug slightly, suddenly shy about it for some reason.
“my friends listened to you, so i did.”
he stares at you like he genuinely doesn’t know what to do with that information, “…you’re lying.”
you grin slightly now, “i liked that one song.” you hum the beat softly under your breath, lightly tapping your fingers against the table, trying to remember the lyrics.
his entire expression changes because you actually know it, you’re not just pretending, “that was your favorite?” he asks.
and there’s something almost boyish about the way he says it. surprised. hopeful.
you nod, “yeah.” a beat. “i used to listen to it while doing homework.”
he laughs quietly under his breath, completely caught off guard now. “that’s kinda embarrassing.”
you smile into your drink. he just watches you again but differently this time, softer, less guarded. like this version of him—the younger one, the awkward one. the one called drippysoup apparently isn’t something he shows people often. yet somehow—he let you see it anyway. “i never would’ve expected that,” he says finally.
you grin immediately, “looks like we were meant to meet each other, drippysoup.”
you laugh again. this time he does too. like maybe this is becoming his favorite part of the trip already. there’s a shared moment of silence before you finally remember the lyrics of the song you were humming.
“you just another drippy type beat. you don’t know one thing about me, only thing you know is that you want to doubt me.” you sing happily, getting into it.
Hollis freezes, completely.
you’re still smiling slightly after singing it carelessly and happy not realizing what you just did to him.
he stares at you for a second too long, like his brain genuinely stopped working. “oh my god,” he mutters finally.
you laugh immediately, “what?”
he shakes his head once, dragging a hand down his face, “that song was so popular.”
“yeah, i was the reason. i loved it.”
you grin into your drink again. he’s still looking at you like he can’t fully process this conversation happened at all.
“you actually remember the lyrics.”
“only the important art.”
he scoffs softly at that but he’s smiling now, real smiling. not the little smirk he usually hides behind. it’s something softer, warmer. you think this might be the most relaxed you’ve ever seen him.
people pass around you. cars move through the street nearby. music echoes. but neither of you pays attention anymore.
“you cannot tell anyone about this. only nate, roman, and ryan know.” he says finally.
you raise your brows innocently, “about drippysoup?”
you laugh again. he shakes his head, trying to hide his own. trying and failing.
a small silence settles between you after that. comfortable this time. you finish the last sip of your drink, setting it down lightly against the table.
“so,” you say softly, glancing back at him. “what else are you hiding from me?”
his eyes meet yours instantly. for a second the energy shifts again. its slower now.
his gaze flicks briefly to your mouth before returning to your eyes, “a lot,” he says quietly.
your breath catches slightly. because suddenly, it doesn’t feel like you’re talking about music anymore. and judging by the look on his face—he knows that too.
the food stand slowly starts getting busier around you. more people crowding the tables. voices overlapping. music drifting louder from somewhere farther down the street. the city is more awake now.
Hollis glances around once before looking back at you, “wanna walk?”
you nod immediately, “yeah.”
he stands first, grabbing both empty trays before you can. you notice that too.
by the time you step back onto the sidewalk, the sun’s shifted lower.
everything glows warmer now. gold against buildings, against people, against him.
the streets are crowded. vendors are lining the sidewalks. small shops. music playing from open doorways, people dancing. you stay close beside him as you walk,naturally close.
every once in a while someone brushes past too quickly and his hand finds the small of your back instinctively, guiding you closer to him. each time—he leaves it there a second too long and each time—your heart reacts embarrassingly fast.
you stop briefly near a small stand filled with jewelry and random trinkets. rings. bracelets. little charms hanging from hooks. you lean slightly closer to look at them, “these are cute.”
Hollis stands beside you quietly watching you. the older woman behind the table smiles immediately and says something in spanish too fast for you to catch.
you blink, smiling awkwardly. “i have no idea what she just said.”
Hollis laughs quietly under his breath, “she said your boyfriend should buy you something.”
your head snaps toward him instantly, “oh.” heat rushes into your face immediately. you can’t tell if he’s being serious, you had no idea he knew Spanish, he’s white. like really white.
the woman says something else now, clearly amused. Hollis answers her this time and somehow that’s worse, way worse.
you stare at him, “what did you say?”
his mouth tilts slightly, “nothing important.”
he just reaches toward the table instead, picking up a thin silver ring with a small black stone set into it. it’s pretty.
his eyes flick to your hand briefly then back to the ring. “this one looks like you.”
your breath catches slightly because he says it so casually, like it’s obvious.
you stare at him for a second too long, “you don’t even know me that well.”
his gaze stays on yours, “feels like i do.”
the loudness of the city suddenly feels very far away. he buys the ring before you can argue.
you immediately shake your head, “Hollis—”
“relax.” he takes your hand gently before you can pull away. he slides the ring onto your finger himself. his fingers brush yours slowly and carefully. neither of you moves, the ring fits perfectly.
you look down at it then back at him, “you do this with every girl you drag through mexico city?”
he laughs softly, “you think there’s other girls?”
you try to ignore what that answer does to you, really. you continue walking after that, slower now. your shoulder brushing his every few steps. the ring cool against your skin. you’re talking again about random things. music. Massachusetts. LA. stories from when you were younger.
somewhere between one street and the next, Hollis realizes something. something quiet. because while you’re talking—smiling slightly—looking around at the city like you want to remember all of it—he notices he hasn’t thought about the fight once. not his opponent. not the pressure. not Thursday. nothing. just you. and that scares him a little more than the fight ever could.
the hotel is louder today. music is playing the hallway, you think it’s coming from Nate and Ryan’s room. the sunlight pours through the windows in warm gold streaks. everyone’s in a better mood, even Roman. which honestly might be the weirdest part because he’s usually the calmest. you’re sitting on the bathroom counter in your room, fixing your makeup in the mirror when your phone buzzes. it’s Nate.
you laugh quietly under your breath. another text comes through almost immediately. you shake your head, typing back quickly.
fifteen minutes later, the hallway outside the rooms is chaos already. Ryan’s leaning against the wall fixing the sleeves of his leather jacket. Roman’s scrolling through his phone beside him. Nate’s pacing around wearing sunglasses indoors for absolutely no reason.
“finally,” Nate says dramatically the second he sees you.
then pauses, “okay wait.”
Ryan looks up too. Roman finally glances away from his phone.
all three of them are staring, you blink slightly. “what.”
“you look nice,” Ryan says first.
Nate points immediately, “like suspiciously nice.”
“that doesn’t even mean anything.”
“it means Hollis is about to forget where he is.”
“shut up,” Roman mutters automatically.
you roll your eyes slightly, trying not to smile. your outfit’s simple. you’re wearing fitted dark jeans. a black top with a denim jacket, gold hoops, and glossy lips. you like looking put together
the second another door opens down the hallway, you know exactly why they reacted like that.
Hollis steps out wearing black jeans and oversized white zip up. his rings are glinting faintly under the lights and he has a bandana tied over his hair again. his eyes land on you immediately. the conversation dies for half a second because he genuinely stops moving.
Nate notices instantly, “oh my god,” he whispers dramatically.
Ryan starts laughing immediately. Roman closes his eyes briefly like he’s already tired.
Hollis ignores all of them, completely. still looking at you, “hey.” his voice is quieter now.
you feel heat creep into your face immediately, “hi.”
a beat. then his eyes flick slowly over your outfit once. not disrespectful. not rushed. just enough to completely ruin your ability to think.
Ryan physically turns away laughing.
Nate grabs Roman’s arm aggressively, “nah, he just said that out loud.”
“i heard him,” Roman mutters.
you stare at Hollis for a second—completely caught off guard. it feels different hearing it from him directly.
“thank you,” you say softly.
his expression shifts slightly at that. he looks warmer like he likes hearing you say that too much.
“can we GO now?” Nate groans loudly. “before these two start staring at each other again.”
“you’re annoying,” Ryan tells him.
Roman pushes himself off the wall finally, “let’s go then.”
everyone starts moving again. the energy comes back instantly. Nate already talking about buying lucha libre masks. Ryan making fun of him. Roman pretending not to care.
between all the noise and movement, Hollis still ends up beside you. close enough that his hand brushes yours for half a second as you walk. not accidental, probably.
you glance at him. he’s already looking at you again. as you’re looking, it’s day two and you already Mexico City might actually be making those feelings you have for Hollis worse, way worse.
warm lighting spills across the table. half-finished drinks, shared plates, and phones are scattered everywhere.
everyone’s actually having a good time, real good.
Nate’s talking with his hands dramatically about something Ryan said ten minutes ago. Ryan’s laughing hard enough he can barely respond. Roman’s leaned back in his chair, quieter than the rest but still smiling slightly every now and then.
Hollis has barely looked away from you all afternoon. you notice it every single time.
“how was training this morning?” you ask finally, leaning back slightly in your chair.
Nate groans immediately, “too early.”
Ryan nods, “way too early.”
“nine a.m. should genuinely be illegal,” Nate mutters.
you laugh softly, “i’m sorry guys, but it was either early in the morning or missing the fight.”
“okay when you say it like that,” Ryan says, “it sounds reasonable.”
“because it was reasonable,” Roman replies.
Nate points at him dramatically, “you’re turning against me.”
Roman grins, “i never joined you.”
you shake your head slightly, smiling into your drink. it’s nice today. it’s like everyone forgot the pressure for a little while.
your attention shifts beside you when Hollis says quietly—“you never played Pokémon?”
you look at him immediately, “am i supposed to have?”
his stare is almost offended,“yes.”
Ryan laughs instantly. Nate sits forward dramatically, “wait—wait—hold on.”
Roman finally looks interested now too.
“you seriously never played it?” Hollis asks again.
you shrug, “i knew people who did?”
Hollis drops back into his chair slightly like this information genuinely upset him, “that’s insane.”
“i was busy fighting people,” you defend.
“you could’ve fought people and played Pokémon.”
he shakes his head once, then starts explaining anyway. he’s completely serious. “okay so basically—”
you try not to laugh immediately because he’s so focused now. his hands are moving slightly while he talks. “there’s different regions, different generations—”
Nate’s already recording on his phone. Ryan’s laughing again. Roman watches him with a cheeky smile.
Hollis ignores all of them, “and everyone picks a starter first,” he continues.
you lean closer slightly, “starter?”
“like a beginning Pokémon?”
his eyes light up slightly, “exactly.”
“okay wait,” you say, now genuinely invested. “that’s kinda cute.”
“i know right,” Hollis says immediately.
Nate zooms in dramatically with his phone, “this is the happiest he’s been all week.”
“shut up,” Hollis mutters without looking away from you.
while he’s still explaining something about evolution chains—you lean in closer to hear him over the noise of the restaurant. his arm resting against the back of your chair now. your faces too close. both smiling, completely focused on each other.
“so what would my starter be?” you ask.
Hollis looks at you for a second too long thinking, “eevee.”
Roman holds back a laugh, “are you saying that because eevee’s weakness is fighting,”
you look offended, “is that why you said that.” you look at Hollis for an answer.
“what? no—no.” he replies immediately.
after a couple minutes,Roman flips his phone around toward himself.
Nate immediately leans into frame, “hello mexico city.”
Ryan throws up a peace sign beside him. comments start flooding instantly.
Nate starts reading them out loud dramatically, “‘where’s hollis’—relax.”
Roman turns the camera slightly across the table. Hollis notices immediately. he lifts his hand and makes a small heart toward the camera. the comments start moving. you laugh softly beside him and wave at the camera. Ryan flashes another peace sign.
Nate gasps dramatically at the screen, “oh, they’re freaking out.”
he turns the screen toward Roman, “because y/n’s here.”
you raise your eyebrows. Ryan laughs.
Hollis just glances at you again. that same look. warm. amused. too soft.
for the second time already— with the music. the lights. the laughter around the table. it doesn’t even feel like fight week anymore. it just feels like all of you wanted to end up here together.
the sun’s already gone down by the time all of you leave the restaurant.
the closer you get to Arena México, the crazier the streets become. everywhere you look there’s lucha libre merch. shirts. posters. kids running around in tiny capes. people already wearing masks before even getting inside.
Nate looks like he’s about to lose his mind, “this is hard,” he says immediately. he’s already standing in front of a vendor table covered in masks.
the vendor table stretches longer than you thought. there’s rows and rows of masks hanging under bright lights. gold. red. black. silver. every design is louder than the next.
Ryan laughs, “you’ve been here twelve seconds.”
“look at these!” he picks one up dramatically. it’s bright red and gold.
Roman stares at it once, “absolutely not.”
“i hate that mask specifically.”
you laugh quietly beside them, looking over the table yourself. there’s hundreds. different colors. different designs. some glittering under the lights.
you reach toward a black one with silver detailing,
Hollis steps up beside you immediately. he’s close enough that your shoulder brushes his, “yeah,” he says quietly. “it looks mean.”
you glance at him, “…mean?”
you snort softly. the vendor starts speaking rapidly in spanish. smiling while pointing between all of you. Nate responds with the worst spanish accent imaginable.
Roman physically recoils, “stop talking.”
Ryan’s laughing too hard to help. the vendor thankfully, understands anyway.
Hollis picks up another mask—black and white this time. it’s a clean design. he holds it toward you. “this one’s yours.”
you blink slightly, “you picked one for me?”
“yeah.” he says simply like it’s obvious.
you take it slowly, “…you’re weirdly good at this.”
his mouth tilts slightly, “i know.”
Nate suddenly appears beside both of you wearing a bright green mask already. “be honest,” he says dramatically. “i look hard.”
Ryan immediately loses it laughing, “you look twelve.”
Roman’s holding a dark blue mask now, pretending he’s not interested while clearly inspecting the stitching.
you smile to yourself because somehow, all of them are excited. even Roman.
Nate’s argues with Ryan over which one looks “more intimidating.”
and Roman’s pretending not to care while still holding two different masks in each hand.
Hollis is standing beside you quietly now. watching you with the mask he picked out for you. as you’re looking through, you pause suddenly. eyes catching on one hanging slightly farther back. all white. it’s simple compared to the others. clean lines.
you reach for it slowly, “wait.”
Hollis glances toward you. you turn toward him holding the mask up slightly, “this one.”
his brows lift faintly,“for me?”
he takes it from your hands carefully, looking down at it for a second. he looks back at you, “why this one?”
you shrug lightly, trying to act casual, “it looks like you.”
his eyes stay on you steadily, “how.”
you glance back at the mask, “…i don’t know.” you smile slightly “it’s calmer than the others.” a beat. “but it still looks intimidating.”
Ryan physically turns toward you immediately, “that was the nicest way anyone’s ever called him scary.”
Nate points dramatically, “she’s right though.”
Roman looks between the mask and Hollis once, “yeah.”
Hollis ignores all of them completely, still staring at you instead. something unreadable flickering across his face. he slowly pulls the mask on. the white against his blonde and brown hair somehow makes his eyes stand out even more.
you blink once then twice because unfortunately—he looks insanely good.
Nate notices your expression immediately, “oh, she likes that one.”
“shut up,” you mutter instantly.
Ryan starts laughing again. Roman shakes his head slightly.
Hollis tilts his head toward you slightly from behind the mask, “you picked good.”
your stomach flips embarrassingly fast at how low his voice sounds through it. you look away first, “yeah well.”
you reach for another mask quickly just to do something. but before you can fully turn—his fingers catch lightly around your wrist. gentle and brief.
you glance back at him immediately. he lifts the mask slightly above his mouth just enough to speak properly, quiet enough that the others can’t hear this time. “you really think this looks like me?”
the noise of the street suddenly feels far away again.
you swallow once, “kinda. you obviously look better but—” you stop yourself from continuing.
his eyes stay on yours for another second, too long. he finally smiles slightly beneath the mask and lets go of your wrist. “good,” he says softly. like your opinion mattered way more than it should’ve.
Ryan finally grabs a black and red one. “okay wait,” he says. “we need a picture.”
“absolutely,” Nate agrees immediately.
within seconds everyone’s crowding together on the sidewalk. masks half on. half off. laughing too much to stand still properly. you end up between Hollis and Ryan. Nate’s trying to set his phone up against a nearby pole.
“this is either gonna work,” he says. “or my phone’s getting stolen.”
“great setup,” Roman mutters.
the timer starts. everyone immediately starts talking over each other.
“i’m literally standing still.”
you’re laughing hard enough your stomach hurts by the time the picture actually takes. right before it does, Hollis leans slightly closer behind you. one hand brushing briefly against your waist to steady himself. his mask pushed up enough that you can still see his eyes, already on you— always on you lately.
the photo captures all of it. the laughter. the city lights. the chaos. and him looking at you like he forgot there were other people in the frame at all.
“okay,” Nate says immediately after grabbing his phone again.
“absolutely not,” Roman replies.
you guys end up getting the vendor to take a picture of you guys on your phone.
you’re still smiling as the massive lights of Arena México come into view down the street. the crowd is louder now, the energy is bigger. all of you start walking faster without even meaning to, like kids. like none of you can wait to get inside.
the inside of the arena is insane. there’s lights flashing everywhere, music loud enough to feel in your chest, and thousands of people packed into rows of seats already screaming before the match even starts.
the second all of you walk in, Nate completely loses his mind, “this is fire!”
Ryan laughs, “you sound like a little kid.”
“because this is awesome.”
Roman’s trying to act composed, really trying. but even he’s looking around impressed.
you can’t help smiling either. the energy inside the arena is contagious. everywhere you look people are wearing masks. they’re chanting and waving signs.
and beside you, Hollis is already watching everything with this quiet grin on his face, more relaxed than you’ve seen him in days.
“okay wait,” Nate says suddenly.“before we sit down.” he points aggressively. “we have to take more pictures. this is a once in a lifetime opportunity.”
“obviously,” Ryan replies.
within seconds everyone’s crowding together again near the railing overlooking the arena floor. the lights from the ring glow against all of you. bright blues. reds. gold. you still have your mask pushed halfway up onto your head, same with everyone else.
Nate’s taking selfies first, bad ones.
you end up taking a few pictures of all three of them together. then Roman takes one of you and Ryan. then Nate forces everyone into another group picture.
eventually, without really planning it— it ends up just being you and Hollis near the railing.
“hold on,” Ryan says immediately. “stay there.”
you glance over. Ryan already has his phone up, grinning.
you laugh softly under your breath while Hollis steps closer beside you naturally. close enough that your shoulder presses against his.
the arena lights flash across his white mask still pushed above his forehead. his rings. his hair. you turn toward him slightly to say something and he leans closer at the exact same time to hear you over the noise. suddenly your faces are way too close.
Ryan snaps the picture immediately. then another. and another.
Nate physically recoils looking at the screen, “oh my god.”
Ryan turns the phone around. the picture looks intimate, way too intimate. both of you leaning toward each other, smiling slightly, eyes only on each other, like the rest of the arena disappeared.
you look away from the screen first, “…delete it.”
“absolutely not,” Nate says immediately.
Hollis doesn’t say delete it either, which honestly feels worse.
before you can think too hard about it, the lights suddenly dim. the entire arena erupts. people start screaming. music starts exploding through the speakers. lights flashing around the ring.
all of you are hyped again.
Ryan’s already standing, Roman too.
you laugh while pulling your mask down over your face properly this time. the wrestlers enter dramatically and the crowd starts chanting instantly.
for the next two hours, all of you completely lose yourselves in it.
you guys are cheering, laughing, and screaming when someone gets thrown out of the ring.
Nate’s yelling in support for people he learned the names of thirty seconds ago. Ryan’s recording everything. Roman’s actually invested now despite denying it earlier.
Hollis keeps glancing over at you during the matches because every time something insane happens—your entire face lights up, laughing openly, grabbing Ryan’s arm dramatically, shouting at the ring, completely forgetting to stay guarded. honestly, he thinks that might be his favorite version of you yet.
at one point during a louder match, you lean toward him excitedly to say something. your hand lands instinctively on his arm. neither of you notices at first, until you both do—simultaneously. you pause, he looks down briefly at your hand then back at you. even with thousands of people screaming around you— the moment somehow still feels quiet. your hand stays there another second too long then you slowly pull away. but afterward, Hollis stands just a little closer to you for the rest of the night.
by the time you guys leave the arena, your ears are ringing. the streets outside are still packed with people chanting and laughing, cars are barely moving through traffic, vendors yelling over each other. somehow, all of you are STILL talking over each other too, or at least trying to.
“that last match!—” Nate starts loudly before his voice cracks immediately.
everyone goes silent for half a second.
then Ryan bursts out laughing, again. “oh my god.”
Nate grabs his throat dramatically, “…ow.”
you try to respond—and immediately realize your voice sounds just as bad. it’s completely raspy from screaming all night. which somehow makes Ryan laugh harder, “no way.”
you glare at him weakly, “shut up.”your voice barely works.
Roman actually smiles this time, a real smile. “you two sound horrible.”
“worth it,” Nate croaks instantly.
“absolutely worth it,” you agree.
Hollis glances over at you beside him. his grin appears immediately when he hears how destroyed your voice is. “you were screaming louder than Nate.”
you point at him accusingly, “because he kept standing up.”
“that’s true,” Ryan says.
“he almost hit me three times.”
Nate shrugs proudly, “i was invested.”
all of you keep talking the entire ride back to the hotel. you guys are showing each other videos, arguing over favorite matches, and talking about how insane the crowd was.
underneath all the joking, there’s something quieter too, it’s gratitude because moments like this don’t happen often. all of you know that.
the hotel hallway is calmer when you finally get back. everyone is noticeably more tired now. everyone’s voices are rough, the energy finally starts to crash.
“tomorrow’s gonna hurt,” Ryan mutters.
“my throat already hurts,” Nate whispers dramatically.
Roman shakes his head once, “goodnight.”
everyone slowly starts splitting off toward their rooms. you’re digging through your bag for your keycard when you realize Hollis is still standing there beside you, not leaving yet.
you glance up at him slightly, “you don’t have to wait.”
your stomach flips a little at how easily he says it. the hallway suddenly feels quieter than before, warmer too. you finally get your keycard out. your voice is still rough when you speak again. “…thank you for today and yesterday.”
his eyes stay on yours, “yeah?”
you nod softly, “i haven’t had fun like that in a long time.”
something in his expression changes slightly at that, it softens. “me neither.”
silence settles between you after that. it’s not awkward, just close. too close maybe.
you lean lightly back against the hotel door behind you, still holding the keycard loosely in your hand. Hollis steps a little nearer without really thinking about it, or maybe he is thinking about it, which honestly feels worse.
his sleeves are pushed up slightly, his hair messy from the mask, and his rings catching faintly under the hallway lights.
all you can hear is your own heartbeat. his gaze drops briefly toward your mouth then slowly back to your eyes.
your breath catches slightly because the tension changes all at once. it’s quieter now, heavier.
“your voice sounds terrible,” he says softly.
you let out the smallest laugh, “…you too.”
another step closer, not enough to touch. just enough that you feel surrounded by him suddenly. his warmth. his cologne. everything.
you should probably say goodnight, instead you stay exactly where you are, looking at him. Hollis looks like he’s trying very hard to keep himself under control right now. his jaw tightens slightly before he finally exhales through his nose. “…i should probably go.”
the fact he says probably makes your chest tighten. you nod once, slowly. “…probably.”
neither of you moves immediately.
finally, he reaches out. his fingers brushing lightly against the ring he bought you yesterday still sitting on your hand. his thumb runs across it once. gentle. absentminded. that almost feels more intimate than a kiss would’ve.
his eyes lift back to yours afterward, “…goodnight, y/n.” he says low and quiet.
you swallow once, “goodnight, Hollis.”
he holds your gaze one second longer then finally steps away, walking backward down the hallway for half a second before turning fully.
you don’t move until he disappears because if he stayed another minute—you’re not sure either of you would’ve kept pretending anymore.
❤︎ 92.9k ☁︎ 9,973 ⌯⌲ 29.8k
liked by 2hollis, rommulas, nate_sib, ellawoolsey, and others
yourusername let’s do it again
ringsidebaby this friend group is so random but works so well
daily2hollis slide 6 hello?????
cinnamongirl why are hollis and y/n looking at each other like that…
user WHO got hollis acting friendly
user they kinda look good together im sorry
nateswife ik nate was so loud😭
cookiemonster dream blunt rotation 👼🏻👼🏻
hollisbabi HOLLIS IN LUCHADOR MASK
-> trapdabgod yeah HIDE HIM FROM ME
luv4hollis slide 6 changed me
daydreamunicorn this feels like soft launching without soft launching
natesnumberone nate absolutely bought the first mask he saw
hollilover hollis in mexico city omg 😍😍
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taglist: @2bun22 @2horsey @natesibsdih @jjscoquette @suxyio @2krush22 @akemimi @qiyokuliife @kingoveverything @zombiegirl777 @ka1aia @malcomtoddsn1gf @swaggotsnoticeswaggots @hepdeerness
a/n: THE LONG AWAITED CHAPTER IS OUT!! please expect more updates! school is coming to an end! this was by far my favorite chapter to write ahah but it NEARLY KILLED ME, i ❤️ u guys! i hope you enjoy! also this kinda sucks given the fact that ryan has been cancelled….