kaywhispers 🪽

── .✦ about me !

⟢ she/her/hers ⟢ filipino/puerto rican ⟢ femme lesbian ⟢ book, manga & poetry reader

⟢ old small writer (2020 from tiktok),, such as x readers (only headcannons + no smut)

⤷ will continue to write headcannons + stories and scenarios!

⟢ i love my girlfriend, fashion, writing, daydreaming, sweets, anything pastel, skincare, and photography!

!!! i take requests! feel free to ask :)) i’d love to write about new characters as well (as long as i know them as well…)

── .✦

𝐌𝐘 𝐖𝐎𝐑𝐊𝐒:

i. ellie williams x reader

➢ love in the dark (series)

➢ extra cream, no nerve (series)

➢ loser ellie williams masterlist (multiple)

── .✦

𝐑𝐔𝐋𝐄𝐒:

“ 𝗲𝘅𝘁𝗿𝗮 𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗺, 𝗻𝗼 𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗲 ”

college smau,, ellie williams x reader

summary: you’re a sophomore in college and getting used to your daily life and routines, such as: your job at the diner, exams, and basic college life. as you go out and about in your life, you create a stronger bond with ellie williams, who you recognized from last year. what you don’t know is that ellie has had a crush on you since freshmen year… and that she’s actually trying to make a move on you this year.

content includes: college/modern au, reader is a waitress at a diner, ellie has a fat crush on reader, nerdy ellie, fluff, slow-burn, ellie attempts to be bold, wlw, mutual connections, college life .

word count: 7.7k

warnings: slight mention of alcohol

authors note: heeeyy.. i saw that a lot of you guys wanted to me in the taglist and i got a lot of notes!! thank you guys so muchness :) i js wanna let u guys know this part is REALLY long and a lot happens, but thats kind of how i like to build things up. lmk if u wanna be tagged for the next part!

𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭 𝟎𝟏: “ welcome to jackson university ”

< index > ,, next part >

jackson university always looked like a postcard in the fall.

the late august sun spilled through the oak trees scattered across the quad, catching in the glass windows of the old red-brick academic halls. the lawn was littered with students, some stretched out on blankets with open textbooks. and some others gathered around folding tables southing about joining their club or signing up for intramural soccer. the air buzzed with the back-to-school energy, a weird mix of excitement, dread, the kind that only lasted for the first few weeks of the semester before everyone inevitably got buried in assignments.

you move your way through the crowd with your coffee in one hand, the strap of your backpack slipping down your shoulder for what felt like the hundredth time today. you’d stopped trying to fix it. a long shift at the diner yesterday still tugged at your arms and legs, but caffeine and determination helped you stand tall.

sophomore year felt different. you weren’t a nervous freshmen anymore, wandering around with a campus map on your phone, pretending you knew where the chemistry building was. you knew your way around now— the best coffee shop, the quiet corner of the library, which vending machines actually got restocked on time. you were supposed to feel more put-together this year. and you did, kind of.

a group of students waved at you from across the lawn. you smiled, a lazy curve of your mouth, and lifted your coffee in a mock toast.

“finally,” jordan called, stepping off the stone bench where he’d been waiting. “you’re late.”

“barely,” you bumped his shoulder as you passed, taking another sip of coffee. he raised a brow. “let me guess— closing shift at the diner?” you hummed in confirmation. “didnt get home ‘til almost midnight. and now i’m here. please clap.”

jordan grinned. “you’re a machine.”

the rest of your friends were gathered near the edge of the quad— amara perched on the low brick wall, talking with her hands like she was telling the best story in the world, mateo spinning his keys lazily on one finger, and juliana sitting cross-legged with a notebook open in her lap, scribbling something that probably wasn’t related to class.

“thought you bailed on us,” amara teased, pushing her sunglasses up into her brunette hair.

“i had to get coffee,” you held it up like a defense. “you know, survive another day back after pulling a late shift at the diner.”

mateo made a dramatic gasp. “priorities. imagine not choosing us first.”

you just rolled your eyes, smiling despite yourself. the conversation drifted easily, moving from class schedules to weekend plans to amara’s unsolicited rundown of which professors to avoid this semester. ara talked about her marketing club’s welcome mixer, mateo hyping up his first basketball game of the semester, juliana mocking jordan for signed up for yet another debate club. the energy was warm, the kind of easy morning chatter that made you forget you were already thinking about your first lecture.

by the time everyone started gathering their bags, it felt like the perfect start to the year— casual, warm, like falling back into a rhythm you’d missed over the summer.

“where are you headed?” juliana asked as you slung your backpack over your shoulder.

“english lit,” you said. “good luck,” she said with a sympathetic grimace before heading off.

you pushed through the glass doors of the main academic building, the cool air inside a relief after the late-summer sun. the faint hum of chatter and shuffling papers made the hall feel alive, but not overwhelming. you knew this building like the back of your hand now: the short cut down the west corridor to the english department, the staircase that squeaked just enough to announce when someone was coming up from the first floor.

sophomore year meant familiarity, and you moved through the corridors with quiet confidence.

you waved at a few familiar faces along the way.

“hey, morning, claire,” you said to a girl from last semester’s literature seminar, who was juggling a stack of notebooks and a laptop.

“morning!” she responded enthusiastically. you grinned, ducking into the lecture hall a few minutes early. the room smelled faintly of chalk dust and some old carpet. rows of seats stretched back, some already occupied by students chatting quietly, plugging in laptops, or rifling through their bags. you chose a middle-row spot, the one you liked because it gave you a perfect view of the front without being right in the professor’s line of sight.

“hey,” you called softly as a few friends from previous classes waved. a quick exchange of smiles, a small nod here and there— enough to feel part of the rhythm of the room.

you leaned back, pulling your notebook from your bag, pen ready. it was strange how much calmer you felt in this familiar environment compared to freshmen year, when every door and every seat felt like a small obstacle course. you even remember when ellie used to sit during some of those first-year lit lectures— two rows behind you, tucked against the side wall, quietly scribbling in her notebook. you hadn’t spoken much then. just exchanged glances across the room, mutual but unspoken recognition of each other’s presence. that was all.

the hum of conversation died down as the professor shuffled in. you were just settling inn to class when the door opened again.

ellie williams stepped inside.

you knew her, you had known her since last semester’s lit seminar, when you’d say a few rows apart and occasionally exchanged awkward smiles. you’d seen her other places too— on the quad, once or twice at your diner— but never more than quick hellos or passing nods. ellie paused, scanning the room. her eyes landed on you, and there was the briefest flash of surprise before she adjusted her bag strap and made her way over.

“hey,” she said, pushing a hand through her hair like she’d just thought of something clever but lost it on the way over.

you smiled, warm and easy. “hey, ellie. you in this class?” she nodded, brushing a loose strand of hair from her face. “yeah… thought i’d give it a shot.”

“sit here,” you said casually, patting the space next to you. she lowered herself into the seat, trying to look casual but clearly tense, her notebook and pen clutched in front of her like armor.

the professor started the usual ritual— assignments and participation expectations. half the class groaned at the reading load, flipping to page one of the syllabus like it was a dare. you jotted a few notes, mostly to look busy.

by mid-lecture, ellie had worked up the courage for her second attempt. the professor had mentioned something about “metaphysical conceit,” and ellie’s brow furrowed in confusion. she leaned slightly toward you.

“hey… do you know what she meant by… the metaphysical conceit?” you leaned in, showing her your quick little diagram in the margin of your notes. ellie nodded, silent for a moment, eyes flicking to your page as if memorizing it by osmosis. “oh… right. that actually helps. thank you.”

for the rest of the lecture, you noticed that she hovered in small ways— shifting her backpack closer and sometimes just staring a little too long at your handwriting, you thought that ellie might just be nervous as she was freshmen year.

when the professor finally wrapped up, students shuffled toward the exist. you stuffed your notebook into your bag, sling it over your shoulder, and looked at ellie.

“see you next class, ellie.” you said casually.

ellie froze mid-step, “yeah… see you,” she muttered, trying to keep it normal. but inside, she was a mess— a buzzing, chaotic mess of excitement and panic.

ellie stayed in the hallway a moment longer, watching you walk down the aisle and out of the lecture hall. she could feel her heart thumping in her chest, stubbornly refusing to settle. she told herself she was just being dramatic, but the way you moved— so effortlessly in your element— had a weight she hadn’t anticipated.

she remembered the times she’d come into your diner back during freshmen year, just casually ordering a coffee or a pastry. you didn’t know it then, but those moments had been the start of something small but fierce in her chest. mutual recognition, stolen glances across the counter, quiet smiles— it had grown quietly, unnoticed. ellie’s crush had begun the first time she’d seen you behind that counter, laughing with a customer or scribbling an order with your hair tucked behind your ear. now, months later, seeing you again in the lecture hall, sitting so confidently in your usual spot, she felt the same flutter. and she hadn’t even spoken to you yet.

you exited the building, backpack slung over one shoulder, and started walking toward the quad. the campus had a rhythm all its own: students rushing to clubs, flyers pinned to the bulletin boards for debate, chess, theater, and intramural sports. posters advertised a cappella auditions, charity fundraisers, and philosophy discussion nights. the smell of fresh coffee and fall leaves mingled, carrying a faint buzz of excitement.

jordan jogged past you toward the student center, earbuds in, backpack bouncing against his slim frame. his dark, messy hair fell slightly over his eyes, and his graphic tee peeked from under a jacket he probably threw on without thinking. he was studying computer science and was part of the robotics club and the hackathon team— two groups he thrived in, always inventing something or competing in little projects. he waved at you, flashing that lazy grin he reserved for only the closest people in his orbit.

amara, walked briskly beside him, balancing her coffee and a tablet. shoulder-length blonde hair framed her face with volume, and she had that “old money” clean-girl style with a tailored blazer, chic flats. she was majoring in marketing and was part of the campus leadership program and the photography club, always judging one networking event or photo project after another.

juliana trailed slightly behind, her long brunette hair shimmered in the sun, and her dark-wash baggy jeans gave her a casual edge with her maroon colored long sleeve top. she studied international relations and loved the debate club, which she approached with a mix of teasing energy and gentle care. she smirked at something amara whispered and threw a playful glance at you as you all passed a flyer for an upcoming campus film screening.

mateo’s deep laughter rumbled before you saw him. he leaned against the railing by the quad steps, basketball in hand, flexing just enough to hint at his muscles beneath a fitted t-shirt. he was a sports management major and part of both the varsity basketball team and the intramural sports council, always lighthearted and teasing everyone in earshot. he caught your eye and waved, his smile broad and inviting.

you fell into step with the group, chatting lightly about the professors you had this semester. it was easy and warm, the kind of effortless comfort that only came with knowing people for months.

you were heading across the quad toward the student center when you caught sight of ellie again, this time outside with dina. they were leaning against a bench, dina animatedly talking about something while ellie half-listened, sketchbook balanced on her knee.

you didn’t stop walking, but your eyes caught hers just long enough for a silent little acknowledgment before you passed. ellie blinked, then duck her head back down, pretending to refocus on her page.

by mid-afternoon, you were behind the counter at the diner, you tied your apron at the back, grabbed your order pad, and called a quick hello to danielle, the older waitress who’d been working here forever and always gave you unsolicited life advice. “try not to look so tired, honey,” danielle said with a wink. “pretty girl like you, you’re supposed to light up the room.”

you rolled your eyes but smiled anyway, heading out onto the floor. it was a steady flow of customers— students grabbing quick burgers, a couple of regulars sitting at the counters with their coffees, someone in the corner booth tapping away in a laptop. the sound of plates clinking, the sizzle of the kitchen, the faint buzz of the jukebox filled the air. you slipped easily into the rhythm, balancing plates on your arm, taking orders, flashing polite smiles. you were good at this job— good at reading people, remembering the details of what they liked, making them feel taken care of.

about an hour in, the bell over the door jingled, and you looked up to see dina and jesse walking in.

“hey!”

their backpacks slung carelessly over their shoulders. dina’s grin was immediate. “we survived the first week of classes! needed a little celebratory treat.”

jesse laughed, eyes scanning the diner. “and apparently this is the only place in town that does pie this good.”

“just so you know,” you said, grabbing their menus. “i don’t make exceptions for anyone. even if you’re my friends.”

“fine, fine,” dina said, sliding into a booth with exaggerated flair. “we’ll behave… mostly.”

“i didn’t know you were working tonight.” dina added. “pretty much every night,” you said with shrug. they ordered milkshakes and fries, and you lingered a little when you dropped them off, leaning casually against the booth.

“how’s the semester treating you guys?” you asked. “busy already,” jesse said. “but ellie’s the one dying. she’s buried in, like, three different lit classes. haven’t seen her outside the library in a week.”

dina smirked. “except today, apparently. you had class with her, right?”

you nodded, trying to not sound too interested. “yeah, lit. she sat next to me.”

“ohhh,” dina said, dragging it out like she’d just found a piece of gossip. you rolled your eyes, smiling despite yourself. “relax. it was just class.” before dina could tease further, the bell over the door jingled again and there was ellie.

she looked like she hadn’t planned on coming— hair a little messy, hoodie slightly rumpled over her band tee, backpack slung over her shoulders. she hesitated just a fraction before spotting dina and jesse, and then her shoulders dropped like she’d just found a safe place.

she joined them for a minute, talking low, glancing over toward you every so often. you caught her once or twice, and she immediately looked away, pretending to read the menu even though she wasn’t ordering anything yet.

eventually, she made her way up to the counter, hands in her pockets. “uh—hey,” she said, clearing her throat. “can i get…um… whatever’s easiest?”

you raised a brow. “that’s a dangerous order.” ellie cracked a nervous laugh. “okay, uh— grilled cheese?”

“good choice,” you said, scribbling it down. she hovered awkwardly until you slid the plate her way a few minutes later, and she mumbled a thanks before returning to her booth. you went back to wiping tables, letting them talk, but when you passed by again, ellie spoke up— just loud enough for you to hear.

“hey, um… i’ll be here on wednesday.”

you paused, blinking. “good to know,” you said, smiling like you couldn’t help it. ellie shifted in her seat, suddenly unsure. “…if that’s okay?”

“of course it’s okay, ellie. i’d be happy if you came back.” ellie froze, blinked, then nodded way too quickly. “yeah… great. bye.” she grabbed her backpack and practically fled the booth, the bell over the door jingling behind her. you chuckled quietly to yourself, shaking your head in amusement. there was something about ellie williams— shy, awkward, intense— that made everything feel lighter, more alive. and now, apparently, she’d be coming back. it’s not like you don’t see her anyway.

the diner had finally quieted down. the last of late-night customers shuffled out, leaving only the hum of the neon sign and the faint scent of fried and brewed coffee hanging in the air. you wiped down the counter one more time, stacked menus nearly, and filled the sugar containers for the morning crowd. danielle leaned against the wall, arms crossed, smirking. “long night, huh?” she asked. “yeah… feels later than it is,” you admitted, brushing crumbs off the counter. “don’t tell me you’ve got homework waiting for you too,” she teased, before disappearing into the back. you locked up the cash register, slid your apron off, and stuffed it into your bag. by now, the streets outside were calm, streetlights casting long shadows over the sidewalk. you swung your backpack over one shoulder, heading back toward the dorms.

once you got back, you dropped your bag on the small desk in your room and flipped open your laptop. professors at jackson university were already posting google docs with detailed semester plans— tables with every assignment, due date, and reading chunk. you liked to get ahead, even if it meant started a little early.

opening the document for your english lit class, you made a small plan for the week: read the first two chapters, start notes for discussion, and outline ideas for the first essay. typing quickly, you marked off the tasks you’d already completed and highlighted sections you wanted to review. your desk lamp cast a soft glow over the clutter of notebooks and textbooks scattered around, but it didn’t bother you. after a while, your stomach rumbled, reminding you that the day hadn’t included a proper dinner yet. you groaned, pulling out your phone.

got any food i can borrow? i promise not to steal all ur snacks

a moment later, his reply popped up.

performative hoe (jord) : only if you come to my room n help me w/ something

wtvv😛

by the time you reached his dorm, he was sitting cross-legged on his bed, headphones hanging around his neck. “so, how was work tonight?” he asked casually. “same as always. busy. people ordering weird combinations,” you replied, digging through his mini-fridge and pantry. you finally settled on an small pack of instant noodles.

“classic college meal,” jordan teased. “want me to microwave it?”

“please,” you said, sitting on the edge of his bed. the microwave beeped a few times before jordan slid the steaming cup toward you.

“so,” he said, leaning back on his elbows. “how long are you planning to work at the diner this semester?”

“depends on the week,” you said, twirling your fork in the noodles. “some nights are slow, some nights are insane. helps pay for books, coffee, late-night snacks…” you smirked at him.

jordan grinned. “sounds exhausting. don’t work yourself to the bone, alright?”

“yeah, yeah,” you teased. “i’m fine. better than doing nothing.”

you ate in companionable silence for a few minutes, letting the warmth of the noodles and the low hum of jordan’s fan fill the room. occasionally, he’d make a small joke, and you’d laugh, the kind of effortless camaraderie that made the evening feel calm despite the long day.

once you finished, you rinsed the cup in the small sink in his room, thanked him for the food, and headed back to your dorm.

back in your room, the outside was quiet. you flicked through your notes one more time, reorganizing the week’s assignments, making small color-coded highlights, and jotting down ideas. the day had been long, but manageable, a little exhausting. and yet it felt like you were exactly where you were supposed to be.

as you finally pushed your laptop closed, your mind briefly wandered to class earlier and that fleeting glimpse of ellie in the hallway. you shoot your head with a small smile. tomorrow was tuesday. a fresh day, another routine, but maybe something interesting was around the corner.

the morning sun hadn’t fully burned off the light mist lingering over jackson university’s quad, but already the campus was alive with the familiar chaos of the first weeks of classes. students hustled to buildings, coffee cups in hand, their backpacks sagging with textbooks, laptops, and notebooks spilling from a traps. flyers fluttered in the breeze, volunteer opportunities, even one for a student art show— and you dodged a few as you made your way to the edge of the quad.

you checked your reflection in a small window along the way, brushing a stray strand of hair behind your ear. jeans, a soft off-shoulder sweater, and your favorite worn sneakers. college mornings didn’t allow for overthinking, this had become a habit. the little cafe by the entrance to the science hall was already bustling. students in hoodies and flannel jackets queued for their coffee, pastries, and quick breakfast. you placed your order: a hot latte with just a touch of caramel and a buttery pastry to keep you fueled. the barista smiled knowingly, handing you your cup. “looks like someone’s ready to take on the day,” she said.

“always,” you replied, tucking the cup securely in the side pocket of your bag before weaving through the crowd. the smell of roasted coffee beans mixed with the faint crisp scent of autumn leaves drifting through the open doors.

by the time you reached the brick wall near the quad where your friends had gathered, amara was already perched with one leg dangling over the edge, gesturing wildly as she was once again telling another story. juliana leaned back, arms crossed, a demon on her face, watching amara’s theatrics. mateo was also listening in on it. and jordan, as usual, had his earbuds in but glanced up to wave as you approached, like he always does.

“goodmorning, glad you could join us,” amara said. “coffee saved me,” you said with a lazy smile, slipping into step beside them. “you always look like you just woke up and decided to be effortlessly perfect,” juliana teased, her dark hair catching the sunlight as she leaned forward.

“thanks?” you replied, laughing.

amara leaned closer. “anyway, i was talking about some drama from freshmen year. love may be in the air but it’s dangerous.”

then she had a mischievous gleam in her eye. “speaking of… have you found anyone yet? college is full of opportunities.”

juliana nudged you playfully. “yeah, has anyone ever gotten your attention? we’re deep into college now.” you laughed, brushing a strand of hair behind your ear again. “that’s silly to think of right now. the year just started… and don’t put the attention on me.”

“hun,” amara said, smirking, “imagine someone liking you and keeping up with your brain.”

you shook your head. “okay, okay, i get it. moving on.” juliana’s eyes lit up when she spotted the pastry in your hand. “ohhh, give me a bite, please.”

“uh-uh,” you said, holding it just out of reach. “you’re having a bite and shutting up.”

she leaned forward eagerly, and you broke off a small piece, feeding it to her with a laugh. mateo rolled his eyes dramatically, pretending to swoon. “this is why i never get pastry love,” he muttered.

mateo smirked knowingly. “speaking of love and parties… did anyone see the flyer for the back-to-school mixer tonight? looks like a few clubs are throwing a casual get-together. nothing huge, just mingling, snacks, music.”

“oh?” jordan raised an eyebrow. “could be fun. i’m curious who’s going to show up. maybe some of the campus crushes will finally make themselves known.”

“you mean like someone awkwardly dancing near the snack table pretending not to notice each other?” amara said with a grin, rest her back on your side.

mateo laughed, fiddling around with his basketball. “nah, more like everyone standing in corners silently judging each other. classic.”

you laughed at the thought, taking a sip of your coffee, letting the warm liquid mix with the crisp morning air. even admits the reading and joking, the chatter of students rushing by, the flapping of flyers in the wind, and the faint rustle of leaves on the quad made everything feel alive.

amara glanced at your pastry again, pretending to swoon. “seriously though, can i have another bite?”

“fine,” you said, tearing off another piece and feeding her.” “that’s it. don’t get greedy.” amara leaned back with a satisfied grin.

the five of you laughed, the morning sun warm against your backs, your coffee and pastries filling the quiet gaps between chatter. it was just another tuesday in college, ordinary, and chaotic all at once— but somehow perfect.

the bell of the nearby lecture hall rang, scattering a few lingering students. the group gathered their things, laughing and teasing each other as they head toward their morning classes.

the library was quieter than the quad, the muffled hum of printers and occasional whisper echoing across the high ceilings. sunlight streamed through the tall windows, catching dust motes floating lazily in the warm morning light. you found your usual spot by the window, backpack at your side, coffee cup still half-full, and spread out your notes from last night.

pulling up your laptop, you skimmed through the table of assignments professor hargrove had posted on the class google doc. you highlighted what you’d already completed, underline what needed extra attention, and type a few reminders to yourself. being ahead felt comforting. like a small control over the chaos of the semester.

around you, a few familiar faces from freshmen year wandered past. one of the student tutors waved at you from across the aisle. the minutes ticked by as you typed and scribbled, the quiet rustle of pages and tapping of keyboards filling the air. a pair of students shuffled toward a nearby table, carrying think stacks of books.

you glanced up briefly and saw ellie racing through the stacks, carrying a notebook and a laptop she paused, scanning the room as if deciding where to sit.

she didn’t notice you, tucked in your corner and completely focused organizing your notes. but ellie’s head subtly turned toward you anyway, her pulse quickening when she saw you there, concentrated and effortless, a small smile tugging at the corner of her lips.

ellie had thought of approaching you. but a group of students swooped in before she could move, taking the chairs she’d been eyeing she hesitated, her courage faltering. by the time the group settled, she moved away, keeping her distance, notebook clutched to her chest.

you didn’t see her at all.

by 10:55, the library was beginning to thin out students had classes or labs nearby packed up quickly, shuffling past. you glanced up just as ellie walked toward the door, laptop in hand. she froze for a second when she noticed you, the quiet, almost accidental recognition that made her heart skip.

“oh—hey,” she said, voice a little tight but warm. you looked up, surprised but smiling. “hey, ellie. watcha doing?”

“i’m just, uh, getting a little work done before lab,” she said, adjusting her bag nervously.

“me too,” you replied. “actually, we’re heading to the same lab next, right?”

ellie’s face flushed slightly “yeah… seems like it.”

“want to walk together?” you asked casually, gesturing toward the exit. her eyes widened slightly, and she nodded, fumbling with the straps of her backpack. “uh…yeah. that’d be nice.”

the chemistry lab smelled faintly of antiseptic and chemicals, the bright overhead lights reflecting off stainless steel surfaces and glass beakers. you set up at your usual bench, unpacking your notebook, lab coat already draped over your shoulders. ellie worked at the bench across from you, quietly setting up her own experiment.

“need a hand with that?” she asked suddenly, hesitating as she looked at the small arrangement of tubes you were aligning.

“sure, if you don’t mind,” you said, sliding one of the beakers toward her. ellie leaned over slightly, brushing a strand of hair from her face as she helped. your fingers nearly brushed, and you felt a faint spark of awareness— but she didn’t notice, too focused on the task.

“careful with that pipette,” she murmured, a small grin tugging at her lips. “don’t want to flood your experiment on the first try.”

“thanks, i think i can manage,” you replied, raising an eyebrow playfully.

throughout the lab, you worked on different experiments but found yourselves glancing at each other frequently, offering short comments and quiet teasing. a bead of water slipped from a cylinder, and ellie instinctively reach over to steady it, whispering, “almost got you there.” you chuckled softly.

“i think you might be more helpful than you realize.” you said suddenly. she flushed slightly and looked down at her lab notes. then, after a pause, you decided to. real the silence with something lighter “hey,” you said casually, “did you hear about that party tonight?”

ellie’s eyes flicked up, curiosity peeking through her usual guarded expression. “uh…yeah, i think i saw a flyer or something.”

“you should come,” you said, leaning slightly toward her over the bench. “it’s nothing big, just a mixer of snacks and music. could be fun. and… it might be a good way to meet people outside of class.” ellie glanced down at her notes, then back up at you, fiddling nervously with her fingers. “maybe… i don’t know. i’m not really—“

“hey,” you interrupted gently, “you could just come for a little while. no pressure. i think it would be fun to have a familiar face there.” ellie bit her lip, looking a little shy but also intrigued. “yeah… okay. i’ll think about it.”

“perfect,” you said, smiling warmly. “even if it’s just for a few minutes, it’ll be fun.”

she nodded, a small smile tugging at her lips. “okay, thanks.”

by the end of the session, the quiet collaboration left a comfortable tension between you, the kind that lingered long after the breakers were cleaned and the lights dimmed.

after some lectures and meals, you didn’t head straight to the dining hall after class. instead, you walked back toward your dorm, earbuds in, the late afternoon sun casting warm stripes across campus sidewalks. you could feel that quiet buzz in your chest that came after a good day— nothing too overwhelming, but enough to make you feel like you were already winning at this whole college thing.

your dorm building was one of the quieter ones on campus, tucked just far enough from the main quad that you actually had to want to be here. you unlocked your door and stepped into your single dorm room, the one you fought for during housing applications.

it was a small and cozy, the kind of space that felt like it had been curated just for you. the walls were already decorated with a few polaroids from the summer, a soft pinboard for reminders, and string lights draped along side to give it that warm, golden glow you loved. your bed was perfectly made, mostly because you hated the feeling of coming back to a messy bed. your desk was stacked with notebooks and pens, your laptop sitting open where you’d left it earlier.

you dropped your bag by the bed and flipped onto the mattress for a second, scrolling through your phone and grinning a little when you das the google doc with your class schedule and assignments. you were a little ahead of schedule already, your notes from last night meant you could breathe easy tonight without stressing about falling behind.

“perfect excuse to go out,” you muttered to yourself before rolling off the bed and heading toward your closet.

you put some music while you got ready, a little playlist that made you feel confident. you grabbed your makeup bag and stood in front of the small mirror on your desk, brushing through your lashes, dabbing concealer under your eyes to erase the exhaustion from last night’s diner shift, and swiping on a subtle gloss. your hair fell into place just right after a few fixed, making you smile at your reflection.

then came the outfit. you pulled out the dress from your closet like it was waiting for you— a sleek, black slip dress with pinstripes running down the bodice in neat, sharp lines, hugging your waist just right. the neckline was trimmed with delicate lace that softened the look, giving it a quiet kind of romantic edge. the bottom hem flared out into layered lace ruffles that swished just slightly when you held it up in front of you, playful without trying too hard.

you slipped it on, smoothing the fabric over your hips, and turned slightly in the mirror to check the outfit. you put on some heels, not too extra but not too boring, it was just right.

you texted the group chat:

what are we wearing tonight? pls tell me i didn’t overdress

amara 💋: you?? never. i’m literally wearing a satin top and low rise jeans lol

julie 🪽: mini skirt. it’s a theme night anyway babes, ur good

mateo : lmao what theme is this

performative hoe (jord): the theme is yall wasting my time if we don’t meet up soon

you laughed, texting back that you’d meet them at jordan’s dorm before heading out. as you grabbed your crossbody bag and slung it over your shoulder, you shot off another quick text:

where is this party ?

julie 🪽: student activities house!! by the east quad

right— the big, slightly old-looking house that clubs and student orgs rented out for events. you’d passed before and heard the music thumping on weekends.

you grabbed your shoulder purse, locked your door, and made your way to jordan’s dorm, the sound of your heels clicking against the pavement in rhythm with your music. when you got there, they were already outside waiting. amara’s makeup glittered under the dorm’s entrance lights, her lip gloss catching the glow.

“okay, you look hot,” amara said immediately, looking up and down before dramatically fanning herself.

“thank you, babes,” you said, grinning and giving a little spin just to be dramatic.

“god,” jordan said, clutching his chest. “i feel like i should buy you a drink or something now.”

you all laughed and you fell into step with them as you all started walking, the warm late-summer air still clinging to the evening. the chatter was easy, familiar— amara debating whether she was actually going to dance tonight, mateo threatening to drag her to the middle of the floor if she didn’t, and juliana pulling up directions to the house because no one else remembered where it was.

the house was easy to find, the thump of the bass carried down the street before you even reached it, the warm glow of string lights spilling out through the windows and across the front lawn. someone had chalked “BACK TO SCHOOL BASH” across the sidewalk in huge block letters, and the porch was already crowded with students holding red cups, talking over the music.

inside, the air was warm and smelled faintly like a mix of cheap beer, perfume, and pizza, the living room had been cleared of most of its furniture to make space for a dance floor. people were packed shoulder to shoulder, the music pulsing through the floorboards, a mix of late 2010s throwbacks and current hits that kept the energy.

you and your friends wove your way through the entryway, taking it all in— a group was sitting cross-legged on the rug playing some chaotic version of card games, a couple of students were shouting along to the song like it was karaoke night.

“this is kind of perfect,” juliana shouted over the music, already swaying to the beat.

“i’m not even drunk yet and this is fun,” mateo said, grinning.

you laughed, letting yourself relax into the atmosphere. it was warm, buzzing, exactly what you needed after lectures and shifts at the diner.

when you turned toward the kitchen to grab a drink, you caught sight of dina near the island, laughing with someone you vaguely recognized from class.

“oh, i see someone i know,” you told your friends. “i’ll be right back.”

you crossed the kitchen and tapped dina’s arm. “hey, dina!”

she grinned when she saw you, “hey, you made it!”

“wouldn’t miss it,” you said, reaching for one of the cups in the counter. “this is a good turnout. did you help set this up?”

“yeah, kind of. a bunch of other students pitched in.” dina glanced toward the living room. “you should’ve seen this place two hours ago, we were dragging furniture into the garage.” you smiled, taking a sip of your drink before casually asking, “so… is ellie here?”

dina’s grin widened instantly, clearing catching the casual tone in your voice. “why?” she teased, cocking her head. “asking for a friend?”

you rolled your eyes, though there was a small smile tugging at your mouth. “no, i told her she should come, that’s all. just wondering if she actually did.” before dina could say anything, someone brushed past you to grab a drink, and you heard a familiar voice just behind you.

“dina,” ellie said, sounding slightly breathless. “i couldn’t find what you were looking for, the kitchen is like… packed.

dina groaned. “seriously?”

ellie laughed softly, rubbing the back of her neck, but then her eyes landed on you— and she froze for just a second. you turned fully toward her, smiling. “ellie! i’m so glad you’re actually here!”

she blinked, like she was processing the words, before her mouth tugged into a small, shy smile. “uh—yeah. yeah, i’m here.”

dina looked between the two of you, already smirking. “okay, weirdo,” she said to ellie, “stop staring at her like she just cured world hunger.” ellie’s ears turned bright pink as she ducked her head, mumbling something that was probably meant to be a protest.

you just laughed softly, feeling the corners of your mouth curl up even more as you held her gaze for a moment.

dina sighed dramatically. “fine, i’ll go get it myself before someone else eats it. don’t be weird.”

ellie blinked. “i’m not—“

but dina was already gone, swallowed up by the crowd, leaving the two of you standing there with nothing but the music and the low buzz of voices filling the space between you. ellie shifted her weight, trying to look nonchalant but still tugging at the cuff of her flannel. you glanced at her, amused at how much taller she looked under the glow of the string lights, how she seemed to be scanning the room for an escape route but staying put anyway.

“so,” you say with a small smile, leaning closer so she could hear you over the bass. “kitchen too crowded for you, ellie?”

“yeah,” she said, running a hand through her hair like she was trying to play it cool. “too many people standing around like they’ve never seen a bag of chips before.” you laughed, and ellie looked away briefly, fighting a smile like she didn’t want you to see how proud she was for making you laugh.

then she glanced back at you, and before she could think twice about it, the words just tumbled out.

“you look really pretty tonight.”

you blinked, caught off guard, staring at her for a beat longer than usual. ellie’s face flushed, and she quickly stumbled over her own words.

“i mean- you look pretty all the time, i just meant— tonight you look, uh—“

you couldn’t help it. you laughed, warm, and soft, cutting through her nervous ramble. “i know what you meant,” you said, still smiling. “thank you, ellie.”

she exhaled through her nose, her shoulders dropping like she was both relieved and completely flustered at the same time. before the moment could stretch any further, dina reappears, this time with jesse trialing behind her and two red solo cups in her hands. “guys! beer pong is in the other room, let’s go before the table’s full.”

“oh, fun!” you said, peeking up. “let me grab my friends, they love playing this.” you turned to ellie with a little grin, already starting toward the living room. “come with me. you can be on my team.”

ellie hesitated only for a second before nodding, shoving her hands in her pockets as she followed you, still a little dazed that she’d just said what she said, and you’d smiled at her like that when she did.

you weaved through the crowd, the music louder the further you go, ellie walking just a little behind you like she’s still unsure if she should really be following. you glance over your shoulder with a smile, nodding for her to keep up.

“julie! jordan!” you call, spotting them near the corner where the couch is half-occupied by students balancing drinks on their knees.

juliana’s head pops up, her glossy hair bouncing as she waves you over jordan looks like he’s halfway through telling a story but cuts himself when he sees you.

“there you are,” jordan says, sliding his cup onto the coffee table and leaning closer. “we thought you disappeared.”

“just found some company,” you reply, stepping aside slightly so ellie is in view. “guys, this is ellie. she’s in my lit and lab.”

ellie gives a little nod, one hand still shoved deep in her pocket. “hey.”

jordan grins, always quick with the charm. “ah, so you’re the ellie we’ve heard about.”

ellie freezes for half a second, her green eyes flicking to you, a question written all over her face. you laugh quickly, waving your hand. “ignore him. he just says things.”

juliana smiles knowingly anyway. “nice to meet you, ellie.”

“yeah,” jordan adds, leaning back with. teasing smirk. “come on then, let’s go see what this beer pong hype is about.”

you lead the little group into the next room, where the table is already set up with its near pyramid of red cups at either end. students cluster around, some playing, some cheering. dina and jesse are already there, waving you all over for squeeze into the circle forming around the table.

“you’re up next!” dina calls, pushing two cups into your hand. “partner up!”

without hesitation, you glance at ellie. “you’re with me now, ellie.” ellie’s eyebrows lift, caught off guard, but she steps forward anyway. “yeah. okay.”

the game starts, the first team taking their shots. you stand shoulder to shoulder with ellie, cups lined up in front of you, the crowd noisy with laughter and half-serious trash talk.

when it’s ellie’s turn, she lines up the ball, brows furrowed in focus. the shot bounces off the rim of a cup, just missing.

“close!” you cheer, nudging her elbow.

“don’t patronize me,” ellie mutters under her breath, smirking just enough to let you know she’s joking.

your turn. you flick the ball lightly, and it sinks straight into the third cup. the crowd whoops, juliana clapping behind you.

ellie groans, shaking her head. “oh, so you’ve been hiding skills.”

you grin at her. “maybe.”

she looks at you, green eyed sharp under the dim lights, and with a sudden burst of boldness she leans just close enough for only you to hear. “alright. bet you can’t do it again.”

the challenge makes your chest feel too tight, the competitiveness feeling increase, but you keep your smile steady. “definitely.”

the game continues, and ellie tries to match your playful confidence. each time she takes a shot, she tries tossing a quip your way. “don’t distract me,” or “if i miss, it’s your fault.” but every time the words leave her mouth, she’s the one who ends up flustered, biting the inside of her cheek and trying to hide the pink rising in her ears.

and every time you laugh, warm and genuine, it only makes her stumble more.

near the end of the game, she finally sinks a shot dead center, and she raises her arms in mock victory, turning toward you with a grin that’s half confidence, half disbelief. “see that?” she says, voice edging into cocky territory for once.

you clap for her, leaning in with a playful smile that’s just enough to make her falter. “i saw. i’m impressed.”

your team ends up taking the win after a close round, and juliana is screaming in your ear like you just hit a game-winning shot in the nba finals. you can’t stop laughing, grinning so hard your cheeks hurt.

ellie turns toward you, still buzzing from the game, and you hold your hands up instinctively, palms facing her. for a split second, she hesitates. then she presses her hands to yours, her palms warm against yours.

“that was all you,” you tell her, smiling like an idiot. ellie shakes her head, but she’s smiling too, more openly than you’ve seen her all night. “nah. definitely team effort.”

you roll your eyes at the modesty. “okay, team effort.”

for a moment, neither of you drop your hands. then someone behind you shouts for the next team, and the spell breaks. you both step aside, cups still in hand, the crowd shifting around you.

the music has gotten louder now, bass thrumming under your feet. you end up standing near ellie again as people filter toward the makeshift dance floor.

“you know…” you say casually, glancing over at her, “you’re honestly so fun to be around. it’s weird how you’re just kind of… appearing more in my life lately. not in a bad way.”

ellie’s head turns to look at you, brows furrowing just slightly like she wasn’t expecting you to say that. for a moment she’s quiet, her eyes flickering to the floor, to the crowd, and finally back to you.

“oh… yeah,” she says, scratching the back of her neck. “i guess maybe i’m just open to having more people in my circle this year.”

it’s a simple enough answer, and you nod, accepting it. but there’s something about the way she says it, soft and summer, that makes you think there’s more she isn’t saying. before you can reply, juliana comes barreling through the crowd, grabbing your arm. “come on, babe! come dance with me.”

you laugh, nearly spilling what’s left of your drink as she and jordan pull you toward the crowd of swaying bodies. you glance back once over your shoulder and catch ellie watching you, her expression unreadable in the low light.

she lifts her cup slightly, almost like a wave, and you smile back at her before you let your friends pull you into the rhythm of the music. this was the perfect way to end the night.

you get back to your dorm late, a little buzzed but more from the energy of the night than the drinks. the single dorm room is quiet when you shut the door behind you, the faint smell of your perfume still lingering from earlier when you were getting ready.

you tossed your bag on the chair and flopped on your bed and later kicking your shoes off. your phone buzzed with a couple of texts, jamar’s sending blurry dance floor videos, jordan insisting that his beer pong form was the reason your team won, and a couple other silly texts. you smiled, scrolling for a moment before tossing your phone aside.

for some reason, your brain went back to the kitchen at the party, ellie standing there looking startled and so completely caught off guard hbu saying you were glad she came. and then her face when she blurted out that you looked pretty.

you laugh softly to yourself. she was kind and funny. kind of cute, too, when she tripped over her words like that. not that you were reading into it or anything. you just liked seeing her around, that was all.

still, you caught yourself wondering if she’d really start hanging out more, or if tonight had just been some random one-off.

mentions !!

< masterlist down below >

𝐏𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆: college smau ,, ellie williams x reader

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𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐘: you’re a sophomore in college and getting used to your daily life and routines, such as: your job at the diner, exams, and basic college life. as you go out and about in your life, you create a stronger bond with ellie williams, whom you recognized from last year. what you don’t know is that ellie has had a crush on you since freshmen year… and that she’s actually trying to make a move on you this year.

𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐋𝐔𝐃𝐄𝐒: modern/college au, reader works at a diner, ellie has a fat crush on reader, awkward/nerdy/shy ellie, slow-burn, fluff, wlw love, young adult love .

;; this is where you can find all the parts to this story! ask to be in the taglist because i’d love to do so :)) enjoy!

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𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐗:

part 01: “welcome to jackson university”

part 02: ???

part 03: ???

part 04: ???

part 05: ???

(ch. 03)

a highschool! au,, heartbreaker ellie williams x cheerleader reader .

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𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: as you finish up cheer practice, you willingly accept an invite by dina to hangout with her, jesse, and ellie. what starts as light teasing and banter turns into real bonding— the group laughs and talks, and you spend the night at a quiet overlook with them. ellie shares her interests she normally hides, and you feel like you’re becoming part of their circle.

𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 7k (7,058)

𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐬: highschool! au, heartbreaker ellie, reader is the bubbly cheerleader, fluff, slow-burn, lesbian tension, loving tension, vulnerability (ellie), secrecy, popularity, romance, dina and jesse are included yay, slight angst?

> this is proofread!!! but if there’s mistakes then it’s there 🥺🥺 + so happy that i’ve written a lot for this chapter! i’ve been wanting to write longer chapters, let’s hope i continue to do so.

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𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟎𝟑: “𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐪𝐮𝐢𝐞𝐭 𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬”

[ index ] < previous chapter ,, next chapter >

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a few weeks pass like that.

soft. slow. unspoken.

nothing ever gets defined between you and ellie, not with words anyway. there’s no “so what are we?” or “do you like me?” whispered between lockers or scribbled in notes. but something’s there, always. a current underneath everything. and it’s been enough— more than enough to keep you warm.

ellie still finds you in the hallway when no one’s watching. she still walks you home when she can. she still says your name like it means something. and you let yourself fall deeper with every little thing. her late night texts. the way she sometimes waits outside your window just to talk.

the way she lingers when she touches you, like her hands are asking a question she’s too scared to say out loud.

no one really sees it. not fully.

your friends catch glimpses, sure. so do hers. but it’s never a full story. just laughs exchanges from a distance. looks that linger too long. people talk, of course— but they only know what they think they’ve seen while you live in the in-between. the hush almost and maybe-it’s-nothings.

either way, the whole thing exists in shadows. all anyone has are fragments. words passed along and glanced pieced together. and sometimes, words come back to you sharper ways than you expect.

when are you gonna do it again?

what exactly?

touch me like that.

her voice— well, her text, but it feels like her voice— crashing through your thoughts out of nowhere. you’d read that line over and over until your vision blurred, your stomach somewhere near your ankles. you’d type something back, something playful, like you weren’t trembling just from the idea of it.

i guess we’ll just have to wait and see.

that line burns even now. you can still feel the weight of it sitting heavy in your pocket like a secret too bright to keep. and maybe that’s the part that scared you— the moment the game stopped feeling like a game and started to feel something dangerous. like something that could actually hurt you if you weren’t careful.

you shove the memory down, forcing your focus forward. but your pulse doesn’t quite listen.

because the thing is: you’re not careful. not with ellie.

practice had gone long. the gym echoed with the squeak of sneakers, the sharp claps of hands, the steady rhythm of chants bouncing against the walls. your squad was running the routine again— one more time, then one more time after that, until the counts blurred together.

it wasn’t until the coach clapped her hands and told everyone to pack it up and move outside that you finally let yourself breathe. a game was coming up, which meant no one was cutting corners.

you slung your duffle over your shoulder, laughing with your teammates and beloved friends, juliana and amara, as the doors swung open and the late afternoon air washed over you. the field spread out ahead, green and wide under the slanting sun.

what you didn’t know— at least not yet— was that a small trio had claimed a space at the edge of the bleachers while you’d been sweating under fluorescent lights.

“why are we even still here?” ellie muttered, leaning back on her hands, hoodie tugged low. her voice was causal, but dina caught the way her eyes kept flicking toward the gym doors.

“mm, i dunno.” dina smirked, leaning into jesse side. “maybe because your girl’s about to come out any second.”

ellie groaned. “jesus. don’t start.”

“oh, i’ve already started,” dina said, bright with mischief. “besides, i’ve met her. she’s sweet. way too sweet for you, but maybe that’s none of my business.”

jesse chuckled, throwing ellie a look. “you’re obvious, man. real obvious.”

ellie shoved his shoulder lightly, shaking her head. “you guys are annoying.”

“annoying and correct,” dina said, then nudged jesse toward the bleachers.

“c’mon, let’s grab seats. front row to watch her work.”

ellie muttered something under her breath, but followed anyway.

by the time you and your teammates spilled out of the gym doors and into the field, the trio was already waiting. you didn’t notice right away— you were busy laughing at something one of the girls said, brushing your hair back out of your face. but then, as you moved toward the center of the grass, your eyes drifted up.

and there they were.

jesse, sprawled like he owned the bench. dina, already waving with that familiar, bold grin. and ellie, slouched beside them, her posture lazy but her gaze locked squarely on you.

the second your eyes caught hers, something tugged low in your chest. reflex, maybe. habit. or just the kind of pull she always had. either way, your lips curved before you even thought about it. that smile everyone teased you for— bright, sharp, the one that made people pause.

ellie paused.

you watched her freeze for half a heartbeat, like you’d knocked her off balance without even trying.

then, predictably, she tore her gaze away, tugging her hood a little lower as dina leaned over to whisper something in her ear. ellie shoved her slightly, but you could see that the tips of her ears were pink.

you turned back to your teammates, cheeks warm, trying to focus as the coach blew the whistle. but the awareness lingered. the whole time you ran the routine, the weight of their eyes sat heavy on you. or maybe just hers.

by the time you finally had a water break, you couldn’t resist. you turned toward the bleachers again— and sure enough, they were still there. dina’s grin met you instantly, jesse’s nod followed, and then ellie’s gaze— steady this time, unflinching. it was like the world narrowed, pulling the four of you into a quiet collision.

and before you knew it, dina was calling out:

“hey! come over when you’re done!”

ellie swore under her breath.

you laughed under yours.

you shake your head, still biting back a grin and lift your water bottle in a little mock salute toward the bleachers. ellie doesn’t look up this time, but you catch a tiny twitch at the corner of her mouth, like she’s fighting a smile of her own. a silent acknowledgement. a secret line drawn just for you the two of you.

then coach claps her hands and calls for everyone to circle up again. you shove your bottle back into your bag, adjust the bow in your hair, and job back into formation with the rest of the squad. your heart is still racing from that tiny moment, but you force yourself into focus— counts, stunts, sharp motions.

the sun dips lower as practice carries in, painting everything gold. every now and then, when you hit a particularly high jump or nail a trick move, you catch yourself wondering if they’re still watching. wondering if she is still watching.

and when you risk a glance over toward the bleachers during a water break, you see it— dina leaning forward on her elbows, jesse relaxed with his arm draped behind her, and ellie sitting sprawled in her usual way, chin tilted up, eyes pinned on the field. on you.

your cheeks fest, and you pretend to fidget with the hem of your skirt, spinning back before coach noticed you getting distracted.

practice winds down with one final cheer, voiced carrying across the field, echoing faintly off the gym’s brick wall. you land your last jump, breathless but exhilarated, sweat clinging to your temples.

“good work, girls,” coach calls. “see you at the game— don’t slack on stretching this week!”

everyone cheers, claps, and starts scattering toward their bags. you wave goodbye to a few teammates before slinging your bag over your shoulder.

that’s when juliana and amara swoop in, each hooking an arm through yours like they’ve been waiting for this exact moment. “so,” juliana says with a sly grin. “you gonna pretend we didn’t see your little audience over there?”

your stomach flips. “what audience?”

amara snorts. “don’t play dumb. three people sat through the entire practice. and don’t think we didn’t notice how a certain someone couldn’t take her eyes off you.”

heat flares in your chest and you shove at them playfully. “i think it’s sweet.”

“isn’t it?” juliana says, “ellie was practically burning holes in your uniform with her eyes.”

amara laughs, shaking her head “player girl, sits there all quiet, just watching you like you’re the only thing on the field.”

“stop,” you groan, but you can’t help the way your lips tug upward. “it’s not like that. we’re just—“

“—‘just talking’,” julian’s finished for you in a mocking singsong. “yeah, yeah. heard it before. but honestly? if this is her version of ‘just talking,’ i can’t wait to see her when she actually admits she’s into you.”

you roll your eyes, but your pulse betrays you, drumming fast and steady. because maybe they’re right. eventually, you manage to shoo them off with promises to text later, and gather yourself before heading towards the bleachers.

dina is the first to spot you. “there she is!” she calls, her grin wide and knowing. “our little cheer star.”

you laugh under your. death, tucking a stray hair behind your ear as you approach. “hey.”

ellie is quiet, but her eyes flick over you like she’s cataloging every detail— your flushed cheeks, your messy bow, the way your bag strap digs into your shoulder. it’s so quick you almost miss it, but you feel it anyway.

“this is jesse,” dina says, tugging her boyfriend’s sleeve like she’s suddenly remembered to be polite. “jesse, this is the girl ellie won’t shut up about.”

ellie’s head snaps toward her so fast you swear you hear vertebrae crack. “dina,” she warns, low and sharp. but it’s too late— you’ve heard it, and your heart practically explodes against your ribs.

jesse just grins and sticks his hand out. “nice to finally meet you.” you grin as you shake his hand. “as nice to meet you too.”

ellie mutters something under her breath, but you don’t catch it. “so,” dina says casually, leaning back against the bleachers like she didn’t detonate a bomb.

“we’re grabbing food. burgers, maybe milkshakes after. you should come.”

the air shifts immediately. ellie stiffens beside her, jaw clenching like she’s waiting for you to say no. and you almost do— you’ve still got homework, and you’re sweaty from practice, and you can already imagine the teasing from juliana and amara when they hear about this later. but then you see the look in ellie’s eyes. it’s subtle, tucked behind her usually bored mask, but it’s there. a flicker of hope. like she wants you to say yes but can’t bring herself to ask. you say your decision you made before you even realize you’re speaking. “sure. i’ll come.”

dina beams. jesse gives a thumbs-up. ellie looks away, but you catch the way her shoulders drop just slightly, tension leaking out of her frame.

you fall into step behind dina and jesse as they chat easily, their laughter echoing across the concrete. ellie slips her hand just slightly near yours as you walk, brushing against you enough to make your stomach flutter.

“so,” she starts, voice low, teasing, casual. “how was practice? you survive without me there to coach you through it?”

you laugh softly, shaking your head. “barely. i think the squad almost bolted when i made them do the new routine again. they’re lucky i’m merciful.”

“merciful, huh?” you mean you’re secretly enjoying being the boss,” ellie counters, nudging your side slightly with her elbow. “i like that. shows character.”

“oh, you like that?” you tease back, bumping her shoulder. “maybe you could tell the whole school about your preferences.”

she grins, a little devilish, leaning just close enough that you can smell her faint cologne. “you wouldn’t dare. besides, some things are better kept a mystery. don’t you agree?”

you bite back a grin, pretending to consider it “maybe… but i’d like to find out a few more mysteries.”

ellie tilts her head, smirking. “i think i like that about you,” she murmurs, voice just above a whisper. she keeps walking, but her gaze keeps finding yours, lingering, daring.

“careful,” you whisper under your breath, nudging her side again. “you’re dangerous.”

“and you like it,” she shoots back with. wink, letting her hand linger just a little closer as you step onto the asphalt of the parking lot.

for a moment, you both walk in comfortable silence, the quiet only taken by distant car horns and birds overhead. then she leans toward you, voice softening.

“seriously, though… you made it through practice looking like a pro. i’m impressed.”

“thanks,” you say, smiling. “maybe you come to more practices— to see what you’re missing out on.”

ellie chuckles, a low, mischievous sound. “maybe i will… maybe ill just come to make sure you’re behaving yourself.”

you laugh, feeling the warmth settle in your chest. “oh, i behave just fine.”

“yeah?” she murmurs, leaning in slightly. “i think i’d like to see that for myself.”

by the time you reach jesse’s car, the teasing and playful tension have left you both flushed and buzzing. you slip into the back seat, ellie holding the door open for you, motioning you to get in. ellie sits beside you, settling into the space that’s just yours, just hers. dina and stephen climb in the front, the energy light and easy.

the ride to the burger joint is a mix of light chatter, laughter, and playful teasing. jesse drives, dina is beside him, leaving you and ellie in the back. ellie leans slightly into you, her shoulder brushing yours, just enough to make your heart skip. her hand occasionally drifts near yours, but never quite touched— just enough to tease.

“so, back there,” ellie says, her voice playful, “i could have been a cheerleader judge, you know. critiquing routines, keeping an eye on you.” she smirks, eyes glinting in the sunlight.

“oh really? sounds silly.” you tease, nudging her lightly. “and what would your score be for me today?”

“perfect,” she says without hesitation. “but only because i can’t resist you.”

you grin, cheeks warming, and she watches, clearly enjoying the effect she has on you. then she leans back a bit, gaze flicking out of the window as if she’d lost in thought. “you know, it’s kind of nice… seeing you outside the gym. different than all the chaos at school.”

“yeah?” you murmur, nudging her again. “i think i like this— hanging out in your world, where things aren’t just routines and rules.”

her smirk returns, teasing but softer this time. “you better like it. you're stuck with me now.”

by the time you pull into the burger joint’s parking lot, the playful teasing has faded into a comfortable warmth. the four of you walk inside, dina and jesse slightly ahead, chatting easily. ellie falls into step beside you, hand brushing yours as if by accident. you catch her eyes and she smirks, brushing a lick of hair from her forehead.

once seated, you slide into the booth beside ellie, your shoulder touching hers, dina and jesse taking the other side. as you all wait for menus, a conversation flowed naturally. dina’s jokes about ellie’s “play girl persona” and how she’d never believe in her wildest dreams that she had a soft side. ellie rolls her eyes, trying to shush dina, but she can’t hide the faint blush creeping up her neck.

“fine,” dina teases, “she also likes dinosaurs and space. huge nerd, right?”

ellie’s hand shoots up to cover her mouth, stifling a laugh, her eyes flicking to you like she’s mortified. “dina, seriously…”

you can’t help but grin. “i think that’s cute,” you say. “i like it too. maybe not as much as you do, but i get it. space is amazing.”

ellie’s eyes flicker with surprise, a small smile tugging at her lips. “you really like it?”

“of course,” you reply softly, watching her expression melt from her playful facade into something quieter, more genuine. “i like seeing what makes you, you.”

for a moment, her play-girl armor slips, and you catch a tiny glimpse of the real ellie— the nerdy, passionate, quietly vulnerable side she only shared with a select few. her fingers brush against yours under the table, subtle and fleeting, and your heart races.

the waitress arrives, sliding menus in front of you. she’s tall, with confident stance and a warm, knowing smile, but her smile seems to linger longer as her gaze lasts a second too long on you. your stomach does a little flip— not for anything serious, just the innocent thrill of noticing someone else’s energy.

ellie notices too. her jaw tightens slightly, subtle enough that only you might notice if you weren’t already focused on your burger joint adventure. she shifts just a little closer to you, an almost imperceptible claim, as dina and jesse laugh at the usual jokes, unaware of the silent tension.

orders are placed, and the four of you dive into conversation— dina and jesse teasing ellie lightly, you laughing along, and ellie subtly flirting with you throughout, just enough to make your cheeks burn. she comments on how good your laugh sounds, how your hands look while gesturing, how your focus on the conversation makes her jealous of your attention. each line is playful, layered, leaving you flustered but glowing.

ellie keeps sneaking glances at you while pretending to be all cool and detached, her usual “heartbreaker” persona firmly in place. but every now and then, her nerdy, soft, curious side peeks through— like when she debates space phenomena or quietly corrects dina about a dinosaur fact. it’s fleeting, but it’s real, and you love it.

by the time the food arrives, everyone is laughing and sharing fries, and the tension from the earlier flirting has only deepened into a warm, electric connection. the waitress checks in occasionally, sending those small smiles your way, which you return politely, making ellie’s subtle possessive flared all the more evident.

you can feel her awareness, the silent declaration that this table, this night, this shared space— she wants it to be yours, like all the little touches and jokes she’s always reserved only for you. and in return, you let yourself sink into her world, enjoying the rare glimpse of ellie beyond the school, beyond the heartbreaker persona, into someone fiercely passionate, playful, and real.

the last of the fries are gone, the plates pushed aside, and ellie leans back in the booth, a small, satisfied grin tugging at her lips. dina and jesse are chatting animatedly about something trivial, leaving you and ellie in a little pocket of calm.

“so,” ellie starts, voice quieting just enough so only you can hear, “do you ever think about space… like, really think about it?”

you blink at her, tilting your head. “space?”

she nods, taking a sip of her milkshake, then putting it down and gesturing with her hands as if the vastness of the universe could fit right there between you. “yeah… all the stars, planets, galaxies… how massive it is, how old it is. and like… black holes. how something that can just swallow everything exists. and no one really think about it. or cares. i’ve always liked it, but i never had anyone to really… talk about it with.”

her eyes are bright, filled on some point only she can see. you watch her carefully, the way her fingers tap lightly on the table, her eyebrows knitting in concentration, her mouth curling into a small, self-conscious grin every now and then when she realizes she’s gone on a tangent.

you don’t interrupt. you don’t glance at your phone. you just sit there, listening, fully present, as if every word she says matters— which it does. your gaze followed her every movement, soft and warm, making her feel like she’s the only person in the room.

“i mean, imagine standing on a planet that’s billions of light-years away, looking up at a sky that’s completely different… knowing that there are things out there we’ll never see, things we’ll never understand. it’s insane but beautiful,” she says, almost whispering, as if confessing a secret she’s been guarding for years.

you smile gently, resting your chin on your hand. “i love that. you’re… you. and i’m glad you’re letting me see it.”

ellie looks up at you, a flicker of surprise in her eyes, before returning her attention to her rant. “and, okay, there’s the whole thing about stars dying… and the ne ones being born… and the way planets orbit things they don’t even touch. it’s… it’s life life, you know? chairs, but order. beauty in all the wrong places. and no one ever gets that part. or talks about it.”

you lean in closer, elbows resting on the table, letting your eyes stay in her as she talks. “i get it,” you say softly. “i really do. i want to hear all of it.”

she enables, a mix of relief and something like awe, realizing that someone is actually listening— not just hearing, but really listening. her usual cool, guarded persona slips almost entirely, replaced by a vulnerable, nerdy, soft side that’s only ever shown to dina and jesse before now.

“you really care,” she mutters, almost to herself, as she picks up her milkshake again. you just smile, letting the silence hang in that perfect, comfortable space. she rambles a little more, and you hang onto every word. it’s intoxicating, watching her let down walls that no one else ever sees. and the best part? she doesn’t even notice how close she’s letting you get— not physically, maybe, but emotionally. she’s showing you her whole inner world, piece by piece.

you take a sip of your own milkshake, heart full. ellie, oblivious to the intensity of your gaze, into her, more animated now, gesturing wildly as she talks about nebulae and exoplanets, comets and the impossibility of measuring cosmic distances. and you love it. you love her.

for the first time, the chaos of slow-burn flirting fades into something calmer, warmer. something real. something that feels like home.

the booth has gotten quieter, just the low hum of the restaurant around you. ellie’s voice, all animated and rich with excitement, fills your ears. you’re so focused on her that you hardly notice dina and jesse finishing their shakes. like is mid-sentence, hand hovering in the air like she’s holding an invisible planet, when dina clears her throat loudly.

“jesus, you two,” dina laughs, reaching for the bull the waitress just dropped. “you guys are giving me third-wheel syndrome over here.”

ellie blinks, her rant cut short. she snaps her hand back like she’s been caught doing something embarrassing. “shut up, dina.”

but dina only smirks, raising an eyebrow. “i’ve literally never heard you talk this much in your life. cheerleader over here has got you out here rambling about the galaxy like neil degrasse tyson.”

jesse chimes in, grinning. “nah, more like the masc version of bill nye.”

ellie groans, slouching back into the booth, tugging the bill out of dina’s hands before she can look at it. “okay, enough. you guys are so rude.” she pulls out some cash, tossing it down with a dramatic flair.

you hide a smile behind your straw, cheeks warm. dina catches your expression, wiggling her brows at you before leaning back smugly. ellie shoots her a glare so sharp it could cut grass, but dina only laughs harder. a few minutes later, you’re all sliding out the booth, the smell of burgers and fries still clinging to your clothes. the night air outside is cool, buzzing finely with the sound of cars on the street.

“alright,” jesse stretches, shoving his hands in his hoodie pocket. “we’re not ending the night here. you guys wanna head to the overlook? it’s not far— good view of the city. chill spot.”

dina nods enthusiastically. “yeah, let’s go. haven’t been there in forever.”

ellie leans against the hood of the car, smirking as her eyes slide over to you.

“what about you, cheerleader? don’t you have a bedtime? pom-poms in bed by ten?”

you took your eyes, trying to ignore the way your heart skips.

“funny. i can handle one late night.”

her grin sharpens, teasing but warm. “ooh, look at you. breaking rules already.”

dina groans dramatically. “save the flirting for later, please. let’s go before i die of cringe.”

elllie opens the door for you, “after you.”

you duck into the car and ellie slides in after you. jesse starts the engine, dina talking his ear off from shotgun. soon enough, music fills the car, low and steady, but its background noise compared to ellie leading toward you, voice dropping.

“so…” she says causally, resting her elbow on e door and turning her head toward you. “back at the joint. i was stopped mid-rant, how sad.”

you smile, meeting her gaze. “then pick up where you left off. i wanna hear the rest.”

something in her expression softens— just for you. her usual cocky smirk fades, replaced by something earnest. she shifts closer, her voice whiting as though it’s a secret between you two, not something for dina or jesse to overhear.

“alright,” she says, licking her lips as if trying to gather the right words “so, you know how i was talking about stars dying and new ones being born? well, there’s this thing called a nebula— it’s like a graveyard and the nursery at the same time. dust, gas, all swirling together. looks like a mess, but out of it? while new stars.”

you lean in too, your knees brushing hers, your eyes fixed on her face. the rest of the car fades— the hum of the tires, dina’s laughter, jesse humming along the music. it’s just you and her.

ellie keeps talking, her hands moving subtly as she paints the cosmos for you. “sometimes i think about how tiny we are in all of that. but then i think… if we’re tiny, and we still matter to each other… maybe that’s the point.”

your chest tightens at her words, at the raw honesty slipping through the cracks of her persona. she doesn’t even it is how much she’s giving away. but you do. and you treasure it.

“i like the way you see the world,” you murmur. “makes me wish i saw it like that too.”

she looks at you then— really looks— and for a moment, it feels like the universe she’s describing is right here, caught between your eyes and hers.

the car winds up a narrow road, headlights cutting through the dark until the city opens up below. a blanket of glittering lights sprawls across the horizon, glowing against the black sky. when jesse finally pulls into the overlook, everyone piles out, voices hushed like they’ve stepped into something scared.

dina whistles low. “man, i forgot how nice this spot is.”

jesse drops into the hood of the car, stretching out like it’s his bed. dina join him, scrolling through her phone as if the view’s just background noise. but you and ellie wander a few steps away, toward the edge of the overlook where the railing catches the faint moonlight.

you rest your arms on the cool metal, gazing out at the tiny city below. ellie stands next to you, close enough that your shoulders almost touch. the quiet hum of night wraps around you both.

ellie’s voice breaks the silence. “so, i’ve been going on about stars and all that, but i don’t really know what you’re into.” she tilts her head, watching you out of the corner of her eye. “what’s your thing, cheerleader? besides… cheer, obviously.”

you chuckle softly, caught off guard. “me? i don’t know, i guess i just like a little bit of everything. i mean, i’m not super passionate about one big thing like you are. i just enjoy… life, i guess.”

ellie hums, thoughtful, rocking back on her heels. “that actually makes sense. you give off that vibe— like you’re the type who’d find fun in almost anything.”

you sip in the cool air, letting your gaze linger on her profile— the faint glow of the city lights catching her jawline, her lips. after a beat, you ask quietly, “so why don’t you ever share your stuff with anyone else? like… your interests. you know, the real you. why me?”

her eyes flick away from yours, down at the ground, then back up at skyline. for a second, she looks like she might not answer at all. finally, she mutters, almost too soft to hear, “i think… they just like the thought of me or something. not me.”

your heart twists at the honesty in her voice, but raw it is compared to the armor she wears at school. you open your mouth to ask more, but before you can, she exhales sharply, as if cutting herself off. she turns back to you, a grin sliding into her face like a mask.

“…or,” she says, her voice lighter now, playful, “it’s definitely because i’m just the whole package. who wouldn’t want this?” she gestures at herself with a cocky tilt of her head. you see the shift— the wall snapping back into place— but you play along, smiling into your sleeve as you look away.

“right. the whole package. got it.”

she chuckles, clearly relieved you didn’t push further. but there’s a flicker in her eyes when she looks at you, like maybe part of her wished you had. behind you, dina calls out, “are you guys seriously whispering over there like it’s date night? get your asses back over here!”

ellie smirks, giving you a side glance. “she’s jealous.”

you roll your eyes, but you cheeks are warm. you and ellie walk over, slide onto the hood of the car where dina and jesse are already sprawled out. dina raises an eyebrow like she caught something, but she doesn’t press— just nudges you both with a smirk.

“so, what were you two whispering about? secrets?” dina teases, leaning back on her elbows.

“yeah,” ellie says smoothly, not missing a beat. “top secret cheerleader business. classified.” you roll your eyes, laughing as dina groans dramatically. jesse yawns, stretching out. “man, you guys are too much. can we just talk about anything normal for once? like, what’s actually happening at school?”

dina perks up. “ooh, true. we’ve got a game coming up.”

you giggle before chiming in, “yeah, there’s a football game this saturday. you should all come. we’re doing a halftime routine, so it’s kinda a big deal.”

ellie glanced at you, the corner of her mouth lifting. “you’re cheering?” you nod. “obviously. it’s one of our biggest performances.”

jesse whistles. “well, i’m down. free entertainment.”

dina elbows him. “and by ‘entertainment’ he means watching ellie get into trouble trying to sneak free nachos again.”

ellie gasps mock-offended. “first of all, i didn’t sneak then. they were abandoned.” you laugh, shaking your head. “wow, what a role model.”

“that’s me,” ellie grins, leaning back on her palms, “a real inspiration to the youth.” dina snorts. “if the youth wants to get banned from the concession stand.”

everyone cracks up, the sound blending with the quiet hum of the city below. for a while, the four of you just sit there like that— talking about school, joking about teachers, swapping stories about stupid things that happened in class today. it’s comfortable, easy.

but every so often, ellie’s eyes wander back to you, like she’s still half in your orbit even when the group’s laughing. and when you catch her gaze, she doesn’t look away right away this time.

“so,” jesse says, tilting his head toward you. “cheerleader, huh? how long you been doing it?” you nod, a smile tugging at your lips. “since freshmen year. it’s honestly fun. i like the energy, and it keeps me busy.”

dina perks up. “i could never. all that jumping and yelling? respect though.” ellie smirks, leaning back on her elbows. “she’s good at it,” she says casually, like she’s just stating a fact. but there’s an undercurrent— something proud— that makes your chest tighten. jesse whistles low, grinning. “damn, praise from her? you’ve officially been knighted into the group.”

you laugh, cheeks warming, and ellie just shakes her head, pretending to brush it off.

the conversation meanders easily after that. eventually, the air grows cooler, the city lights dimmer as the hour creeps later. dina yawns, covering her mouth with the back of her hand. “okay, i love you all, but i’m officially done. if i don’t get at least six hours of sleep, i’ll fail my math test tomorrow.”

jesse checks his phone, nodding. “yeah, it’s getting late. we should head back.”

ellie stretched her arms above her head with a dramatic sigh. “guess the fun’s over.” her eyes flick toward you. “bet you’ve got a bedtime anyway.”

you roll your eyes, nudging her shoulder. “it’s called being responsible. not that you’d know.” she grins, wolfing. “mm, maybe you’ll teach me sometime.”

heat sparks low in your chest, but before you can respond, dina claps her hands together. “alright, children. let’s pack it up.”

the group shuffled off the hood of the car, laughter and chatter still lingering in the air. and as you slide into the backseat again, squeezed beside ellie.

the hum of the car engine and the soft drone of conversation fill the space as you settle into the backseat again. ellie sits in beside you, dina curling up by the window, already looking half gone. jesse fiddles with the aux cord, something mellow pouring through the speakers as the city lights flicker outside.

your eyelids feel heavier than you want to admit. the long day, the cheering, the night air— it all weighs down on you. you shift in your seat, trying to keep up with the casual chatter around you, but your body betrays you, tugging you closer and closer to sleep. it happens quietly— your head moving slightly to the side, breath slowing. nobody noticed at first.

“hey, where am i dropping you off?” jesse asks suddenly, glancing in the rearview. when all that greets him silence, dina snorts faintly but doesn’t stir, and masc leans over to check. her gaze softens that second she sees you, curled against the seat, lashes brushing your cheeks. “she’s out,” ellie says, a small chuckle in her voice. then, casually, she gives jesse the quick directions to your house.

jesse glances in the mirror again, grinning. “wow, dina’s gone too. guess we’ve got two sleeping beauties. if i hit another red light, i’m gonna start feeling like a babysitter.” ellie laughs under her breath, shaking her head. “don’t wake them up. they’re actually peaceful for once.” but then the car jostles over a bump in the road, jesse blurting. “oh shit— sorry, guys!”

you jolt awake, heart thudding, blinking hard against the blur of half-sleep. “what happened?” you mumble, voice thick with drowsiness. “nothing, nothing. just a bump. my bad.” jesse’s eyes flick nervously to the mirror. “good thing dina’s still out. she’d revoke my license on the spot.”

that earns a soft laugh from you, but your attention shifts almost immediately to ellie. she’s already looking at you, a lopsided grin on her face that sends a flutter though your chest. “just go back to sleep,” she murmurs, and before you can think too much about it, her hand comes up gently to the back of your head. she nudged you toward her shoulder with surprising tenderness, guiding you to rest there.

your mind barely registers what’s happening— half away, half gone— but your body melts into her all the same. the fabric of her hoodie is warm beneath your cheeks, her shoulder steady, the faintest trace of he cologne in the air. within moments, you’re drifting again, caught in that soft limbo between waking and dreaming.

ellie doesn’t move. she just sits there, one arm relaxed on her lap, the other still faintly curved near you as if she’s making sure you won’t slip away. for a while, she just watches— your lips parted slightly in sleep, the rise and fall of your chest— before turning her gaze out the window with a quick exhale.

the ride feels shorter than it is. and when jesse turns down your steer, ellie leans close, brushing her knuckles lightly against your arm. “hey,” she whispers. “we’re here.” your stir, blinking awake. it takes you a moment to realize where you are, and another to realize you’d been sleeping on her. your head jerks up, heart rushing to your face. “oh— sorry,” you murmur, embarrassed.

ellie just shakes her head, that same easy grin playing at her lips. “don’t worry about it. get some rest, yeah?” her words are soft, not teasing for once. just genuine.

you nod, too tired to argue. dina is still out cold by the window, jesse pulling up in front of your house. you mumble your goodbyes, stealing one last glance at ellie as you slip out of the car.

i promise i’ll come back and post something new. if anything, please feel free to message me!! i’d love to do any of your requests as a start to getting back into posting more lolz

and thank you so much for all the love!! you guys are so awesome! i get notifications from you guys every day and it really makes me happy :33 !!

02; 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓

𝐏𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆: nerdy, loser! ellie williams x reader

𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐋𝐔𝐃𝐄𝐒: fluff, flirty tension, awkward moments, cutesy moments, corny jokes, dorky ellie williams, smitten ellie, wlw, teenage/young adult love .

;; this masterlist will aid all of you readers to every writing that i’ve done that includes nerdy/loser ellie williams x reader! enjoy !!!

———

𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐗:

i. loser! ellie williams x reader headcanons

➢ part 1 ,, part 2 ,,

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𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝟏 < ,, > 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝟐 (here!)

> 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓 < 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞

𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠: loser! ellie williams x reader (fluff)

𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐬: loser ellie as your cutie girlfriend, more leaning into fem reader (sorry), fluff, simple headcannons of how ellie would be in a highschool relationship with dear reader, highschool! au

𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐞: hey guys! sorry i haven’t been posting for quite a while. decided to stop being silent and post some more headcanons of our fav! (since u guys loved the last one) :3 enjoy

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⟢ she’s so bad at flirting it loops back around to being charming. ellie tries to flirt but it never goes how she planned. she’ll compliment your handwriting and somehow end up explaining the history of cursive. she’ll try to wink and blink with both eyes. she’s so clearly into you it hurts.

“you, uh… you look like you stepped out of a studio ghibli movie today.”

“is that a compliment?”

“obviously!! that’s like.. peak romance.”

⟢ her room is a real chaotic blend of nerd and softness. ellie has star wars posters, a full wall of sketches, books stacked sideways on her shelves, and a pike of hoodies on her chair. a cracked lava lamp glows softly by her desk. speaking of her desk— it’s a complete mess. half of her biology homework and half doodles of you in the margins.

the first time ellie invites you over, she’s pacing for 20 minutes trying to make it look casual. when you get there. she won’t sit down at first. just leans on her bedpost, acting cool, while internally panicking that you’ll see how nervous she is.

“uh, yeah, i dunno, it’s not, like— cool or anything. you can sit. or, like. play down if you want. or whatever. chill..”

“you’re nervous.”

“am not. you’re just distracting.”

⟢ the first awkward and adorable sleepover. the first time you guys decided to have a sleepover at her house. it’s casual at first— movies, snacks, a shared blanket on her floor. but then suddenly it’s 12am and ellie’s definitely too nervous to offer the bed first.

“so like… you can take my bed. i’ll—uh—i’ll sleep here on the floor. like a gentlemen.”

“or you could just get in the bed with me?”

“uh—yeah? no—i mean yeah. totally. i’ll just.. not move the entire night so i don’t accidentally touch you.”

ellie does accidentally touch you. her pinky brushes yours under the blanket and she goes insane. and when you do fall asleep next to her? she doesn’t sleep for like an hour. she just looks at you. quietly. like she can’t believe you’re real.

“…you’re so pretty when you’re sleeping. i am so screwed.”

⟢ she info dumps when she’s nervous or excited. you’ll be cuddling and she’ll randomly say: “did you know snails can sleep for up to three years? that’s kind of relatable.”

she loves telling you about space, fungi, or weird survival trivia. but sometimes it’s just her way of filling silence when her heart’s racing too fast from being close to you. but she knows you’ll always listen to her fun facts.

⟢ she gets flustered when you initiate affection. ellie’s used to being the one who stares too long, who leans in first. so the first time you pull her in for a hug? her whole brain short circuits.

“you smell like vanilla and graphite, ellie.”

“okay— you can’t just say stuff like that.”

she hides her face in your shoulder to hide the blush. it’s ridiculous how easy it is to ruin her with one compliment.

⟢ she gets jealous in the quietest ways. ellie’s not possessive, but when someone flirts with you, her body language shifts. she gets quiet and observant. her hand might brush yours more often. her jokes get sharper. she’s not mad, she’s just watching.

“they’re not even funny. i’m funnier. objectively.”

“you jealous?”

“maybe. but it’s fine. i already know i’m your favorite.”

⟢ she leaves you little notes— on your desk, your locker, your phone case. they’re messy and sweet and often folded like tiny triangles. sometimes it’s a doodle. sometimes it’s something like:

“if today doesn’t treat you so well, come find me at lunch. i’ll share my food with you. that’s love.”

you definitely keep them in a shoebox like little treasures. shows doesn’t know that yet.

⟢ she gets stupid excited about niche date ideas. ellie doesn’t always do typical dates. she plans stuff like:

➛ “let’s go to that tiny observatory and pretend we know the constellations.”

➛ “i made a playlist for a walk. trust me with this.”

➛ “you ever tried speed running a co-op game while cuddling? let’s ruin our thumbs.”

and the whole time she’s doing it, she’s soft with you. holding your hand during loading screens. making sure you have snacks. explaining facts about the moon because she read about it last night.

“if you were a planet, i’d orbit you. i’m serious. no shame.”

“that’s the nerdiest thing anyone’s ever said to me.”

“and yet here you are. still into me.”

⟢ she gets lost in you when you’re talking. you could be rambling about the most mundane thing— what your friends said, what you saw on tiktok, what you saw your classmates do— and ellie just stares.

not in a creepy way. in a full-body, soft-focus, “i can’t believe i get to exist at the same time as you” way.

“ellie?”

“yeah? sorry. i was just listening. you’re… really pretty… when you talk.”

⟢ ellie introduces you to joel for the first time. the buildup is worse than the actual event. ellie stresses over it for days. she’s convinced joel is going to say something awkward or embarrassing and ruin everything. you remember the time when ellie was talking to you about joel, saying how he’ll call you ma’am. and talk about wood or tractors or some dad thing.

but the day comes— and joel is actually so sweet in his gruff, awkward dad way. he’s just trying to be polite, but you can tell he’s quietly reading you like a hawk.

he shakes your hand and nods.

“ellie talks about you a lot.”

“dad—“

“what? just sayin’. you’re all over that sketchbook of hers.”

“i know i saw it once but multiple? i didn't know i was your muse, ellie.”

“i’m moving out. i’m running away.”

⟢ she loves you with her whole heart. ellie doesn’t know how to half-love. once she’s in, she’s in. she memorized your favorite snack. your music taste. the way your voice shifts when you’re tired. she sends you links to articles that remind her of you. buys you books just to write something soft inside the cover.

she kisses you like she’s still surprised and you let her. she’ll hold your pinky when you’re walking. smiles when she hears your voice.

“i think i’d like you in every universe.”

“you already have me in this one, ellie.”

“yeah, and it still feels unreal.”

(ch. 02)

highschool! au,, heartbreaker ellie williams x cheerleader reader .

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𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: you and ellie have been getting closer— giving and receiving flirty messages, feeling touches that linger for too long, and keeping each other company. a few close friends from both of you know what’s been happening between you two, and it’s just getting started. you’re finally being more bold towards ellie, and she’s loving it.

𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 2.6k

𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐬: highschool! au, heartbreaker ellie, flirty ellie (as usual), reader is the bubbly cheerleader, reader is also falling for ellie, lesbians being lesbians, flirty tension, fluff, slow-burn, more texting, dina is in this chapter.

𝐚/𝐧: lolol omg ever since i published the first chapter i just had the energy to move onto chapter 2… but i really don’t want to spoil you guys so quickly, you might get bored of me. anyway, i was giggling and biting my nail as i wrote this chapter. i hope you do the same as well! <3

> chapter is proofread. but there could be some things i misspelled… haha (sorry)

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𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟎𝟐: “𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐭𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞”

[ index ] < previous chapter ,, next chapter >

you wake up with a stupid smile on your face.

the sunlight barely filters in, soft against your cheeks, but your phone is already in your hand. your inbox is still open—last night’s texts lighting up the screen like tiny firecrackers. ellie’s name at the top. her words echoing in your head like lyrics you’ll never forget.

it’s silly. you know it’s silly. you let yourself soak in it while brushing your teeth. you replay the conversations you’ve had the other day while picking out your skirt. you’re practically glowing by the time you’re placing your cheer bow in your hair, like it’s a resemblance of you.

your fingers trace the hem of your top as you double-check your reflection— not too much, not trying too hard, but just enough for ellie to notice.

you slip in your wired earbuds, music pouring in like a soundtrack. the same concrete sidewalks you always walk feel different now— it’s the exact path she walked beside you yesterday. she hadn’t touched your hair or anything, she just walked and said a few cool things. ellie teased you. talked like she actually liked listening to you. but still, the distance between your shoulders had felt like electricity.

now you’re smiling at the sidewalk as you creep closer to the campus. you look up at the sky. you feel like maybe, just maybe, something is happening here.

what you don’t see is ellie leaning against the low wall across the quad. plain black tee, sleeves sealing her arms, the neckline hanging just enough to tease her collarbone. her black skinny jeans cling to her legs like they were made for her, worn and faded in all the right places. and of course, that damn flannel. the one she wears over everything with rolled sleeves.

her eyes flicker up the second she sees you. calm and unreadable. but her gaze doesn’t leave you. ellie watches the way you walk, earbuds in, lost in thought.

she watches the way you smile to yourself. and maybe… maybe ellie smiles too.

you don’t see her until you’re twisting your locker combo. that’s when your music clicks off.

your right earbud is tugged gently away, and your head whips sideways with a soft gasp. she’s standing there— too close to be casual, too calm to be innocent - holding your earbud by the cord, letting the music leak out faintly into the space between you.

ellie tilts her head, listening. then, with the cockiest smirk, she looks at you.

“The Cranberries?” she says, voice low, smooth like honey over gravel. “didn’t think we’d have so much in common.”

your chest tightens in a way that’s very not chill. still, you find your smile.

“well.. you could’ve known,” you say, inching your locker open. “if you just asked about me.”

she blinks like she’s impressed, not by your music taste. but by you.

“that so?” ellie hums.

before she can say anything more, your friend sadie swoops in from the side like she’s been waiting her whole life for this moment.

“heeyy…” she says, dragging out the word, her grin suspiciously wide.

“sadie,” you greet her with a warning smile. sadie leans toward you slightly and whispers under her breath, “juliana told me everything.” then, out loud— clearly for both of you and ellie to hear—

“well, aren’t you two just cute, huh? sharing headphones?”

you glance at ellie, who’s got your earbud hanging loosely from her fingers, like she’s owns the whole moment.

sadie doesn’t stop. “so, ellie,” she teases, “heard you walked my girl home yesterday. no funny business happened, right?”

your hand flies up to sadie’s mouth. “ohh-kay maybe you should get to class now,” you laugh, clearly flustered. “let’s talk later.”

sadie raises both hands like she’s surrendering. “alrighttt, alright. see you two.”

as she walks off, she turns back just once— just long enough to wink at you like she knows everything. you stare daggers at her back before turning, heart racing, back to ellie.

silence. then—

ellie nudged your arm with her knuckle, softly. “your friends always this nosy?”

you shrug, but your grin is giving everything away. “only when they think i’ve got a thing with the local school heartbreaker.”

she lifts a brow, just a little. “do you?”

you glance away, pretending to be occupied with your locker, staring at it. “don’t know, still figuring it out.”

for a second, neither of you say anything. the hallway noise hums around you both like a bubble.

“i should head to class,” ellie says at last, stepping back slightly. but before she fully turns she does something unexpected.

ellie reaches out— slowly, deliberately— and takes your free hand.

your breath catches in your throat. not in a dramatic way. but quietly, naturally. it’s the way her fingers wrap around yours like she’s done it before. like she knows you’d let her.

your hand is open, soft, your palm is facing the ceiling. and then ellie drops your earbud into it— carefully, gently, like it’s something fragile.

her fingers linger for the smallest second too long, and it’s making you go insane.

and then she pulls away, smooth as ever.

“don’t miss me too much while i’m gone, cheerleader,” she teases, already walking backward down the hall, her voice carrying like a secret.

you pretend to scoff, rolling your eyes. but your heart is jumping.

“whatever.”

ellie’s already halfway down the hall when she turns around and walks before a few steps, flashing that classic half-smirk that’s been melting girls since sophomore year. then she’s gone.

you finally turn back to your locker. and pause.

sitting right there— dead center in your top shelf— is a bag of fruity gummies. your favorite.

you stare. blink.

your fingers reach out and take the bag slowly, like it might disappear.

you giggle. genuinely. warmly. it slips out before you can stop it.

but then— realization creeps in. ellie doesn’t know your combo.

you glance down at the hall again, lips parted.

you’ve got a new mystery.

LATER IN THE DAY…

the classroom’s cooler than the hallway, the hum of the overhead lights soft compared to the usual cafeteria chaos. you’re tucked in the second row from the windows, the sun shining strips of gold onto your desk through half-closed blinds.

your lunch is packed neatly in a little Tupperware from home, it smells warm and sweet. teriyaki chicken, rice, and some steamed veggies your mom insisted you bring in a morning text.

your earbuds are in and you’re watching a show on your phone, something easy and stupid to be distracting enough for you. a few other kids are scattered around the room— head bent over books or phones, some eating too. no ones paying you any attention. just the way you like it sometimes.

you pick up a piece of chicken with your fork, eyes half on the screen, when your phone buzzes again— a new notification lighting up across the top.

you tilt your head sideways, squinting slightly as you chew.

ellie 🌚: look to your right.

your jaw pauses and your stomach does that dumb fluttery thing again. and there she is.

ellie.

walking through the door like she’s done it a thousand times. hair pieces framing her face, backpack slung slow, that signature smile already creeping onto her face. your eyes narrow, smile tugging at your lips.

“we’ve gotta stop meeting like this, ellie. it’s starting to get creepy.”

she lets out a soft laugh. “guess i’m just a girl who shows up where she’s not supposed to be.”

without asking, she moved toward the desk in front of you’re, dragging the chair out with a squeak before straddling it— not turning it like a normal person, obviously. no, she sits backwards, resting her arms on the top of the chair back, one elbow planted to prop up her cheek. she sits so closely to your desk that your shoes met with hers.

“you look so cute eating lunch like that,” she says, eyes flicking to your container. “so focused. i almost didn’t want to interrupt.”

you scoff, trying not to blush as you set your fork down. “don’t act like you didn’t mean to interrupt.”

ellie shrugs. “maybe. but maybe i just wanted to see if your home lunch was as good as it smells.”

you give her a playful glare. “you want a bite or something?”

she smirks. “nah. i brought snacks.” she leans in slightly, tapping her finger against your desk. “speaking of…”

your brows raise. “oh, right.” you reach into your backpack, pulling out the now half-eaten bag of fruity gummies and holding it up between two fingers. “about this— how do you even know my locker combo?”

ellie looks too pleased with herself. “wouldn’t you like to know.”

you narrow your eyes, leaning forward a little. “yes. that’s why i asked, ellie.”

she shrugs again, annoyingly casual. “let’s just say… i have my ways?”

you snort. “oh, so you broke into my locker?”

“pfft. broke in is a strong phrase.” she leaned even closer across the back chair, voice dropping just a little. “more like… borrowed the combo off someone who knows you. lucky for me, some people talk when you smile at them.”

you pretend to gasp. “you flirted your way into getting my locker combo?!”

“flirted?” she echoed. “cheerleader, i smiled. i didn't even have to try.”

you shake your head, trying not to grin. “that’s almost impressive. in a criminal sort of way.”

“thank you.” she winks. “i’ll add it to my resume.”

your phone buzzes again on the desk, lighting up both of your faces briefly. ellie glances at it, then back to you. “am i interrupting anything important?”

you give a shrug and a smile. “nah. just wasting time until next period.”

ellie hums low, eyes drifting from your face like she’s memorizing the moment.

then, softly: “i like that you’re here. alone.”

you blink. “why?”

ellie shrugs. “feels like i get more of you. not the whole sparkle-cheerleader-show you always put on for everyone else.”

you try not to melt at that. you fail miserably and instantly.

“…this is me,” you say, voice quieter than before. “the me when i’m not… performing, i guess.”

“well,” she says; settling more comfortably into the chair. “i like this version.” ellie says it like it’s simple. like it’s obvious. but you feel it in your chest.

you lean forward a little. “you’re really gonna keep popping up randomly like this?”

ellie smiles again. “only if you keep looking this happy to see me, cheerleader.”

you try to roll your eyes. but you can’t wipe the grin off your face.

———

the bells not ringing yet, but it’s close— buzzing quietly in the back of everyone’s mind like a countdown.

ellie is still in that chair, backwards like always, arms resting across the top, chin balanced in her palm. she’s watching you in that unreadable way again— like she’s trying to memorize something.

you shift in your seat, pretending to reach for you water bottle, but your hand goes elsewhere.

you lean forward slightly and pinch the corner of ellie’s flannel, just near the collar where it’s folded a little uneven.

“it was crooked,” you say, smoothing the flap gently. your fingertips brush against the fabric near her chest— not even trying to be bold, but definitely not innocent.

ellie doesn’t say anything just yet.

her hand twitches once like she’s about to, but she’s too stunned. she just watches you— blinking like she forgot to form words. you’re already pulling your hand back, and she’s left standing there with the ghost of your touch still clinging to the front of her flannel like it meant something.

you don’t move right away, though. you just smile. soft. a little smug that’s cute with an edge of mischief.

ellie opens her mouth to say something, anything— but she’s cut off.

“dude— there you are!”

a voice from the doorway. you both turn your heads.

dina, who clearly walked all across campus to find her missing best friend, steps halfway into the room, her backpack slung carelessly over ike shoulder. she’s in a good mood— cheerful and totally unbothered by whatever tension she just walked in on.

she raised her brows at ellie. “c’mon, we’re gonna be late. grab your stuff.”

ellie blinks again and postures herself straight to stand up, dragging a hand through her hair.

“yeah— alright, hold on.”

that’s when dina’s eyes land on you.

“oh wow, you’re her! hi, i’m dina.” she walks up without hesitation, flashing you a bright smile.

“ellie mentioned you plenty of times, how are y—“

ellie kicks the side of dina’s foot under the desk. dina flinches and blinks, clearly confused at first. “ow—? what the—“

ellie doesn’t look at her. she just mutters, “shut up.”

realization washes over dina in less than a second. “oh.” then she smirks. “ohhh.”

you giggle, trying not to look too proud, and greet dina with a polite, “nice to meet you.” you glance at ellie— and maybe it’s just the warm hallway light, but you swear her ears are pink.

you don’t say anything. not yet.

instead, you throw your bag over your shoulder, still smiling, and nod toward the door.

“see you two.”

ellie meets your gaze just once more, eyes trailing after you while you head down the hall.

…

ellie’s next period is halfway through and she’s barely registered a single word on the board.

the teacher’s voice drones on about whatever— some half-assed worksheet, notes in the screen, group work she should probably be contributing to— but ellie’s staring out the window.

or pretending to.

truthfully, her focus keeps slipping back to the classroom before this one. to the exact moment you leaned in, reached out, and straightened her flannel like you had every right to.

the way your fingers lingered. that slow brush over her chest.

that way you smiled like you knew what you were doing.

it wasn’t loud. it wasn’t big. but it worked. you didn’t flirt with words this time. you flirted with touch. and God, was it bold.

ellie shifts in her seat, tapping her pen once against her notebook, then twice. her jaw clenches just slightly.

she can still feel it— the weight of your fingertips and that quiet confidence in your eyes.

she exhales through her nose. then she opens her phone under the desk. she stares at the last conversation she’s had with you, thumb hovering above the keyboard.

so when are you gonna drive me insane again, cheerleader?

send.

ellie stares at the screen a beat longer than necessary. then locks her phone again.

God help her if you flirted back.

———

your phone buzzes against the desk, cutting through the low hum of your classroom. you’re mid-way through copying notes when you glance down— and freeze.

ellie 🌚: so when are you gonna drive me insane again, cheerleader?

heat crawls up the back of your neck before you even realize you’re smiling like an idiot. of course she’d text you that in the middle of class, like it’s nothing.

you bite your lip, glance at the teacher, then slide your phone into your lap and type back, fingers trembling with the tiniest thrill.

insane? what did i do lol

the dots appear immediately. ellie was waiting for you.

ellie 🌚: don’t play dumb. you know what you did.

i really don’t :)

you add the smiley face on purpose because you know it’ll get to her. a petty, innocent little stab at pretending you have no idea that touching her collar almost made her combust.

another buzz.

ellie 🌚: that look on your face is killing me rn

what look?

ellie 🌚: the one you pretend you’re innocent but you’re not. you’re killing me here.

you nearly choke on a laugh, hiding it with a cough when your teacher glances up. ellie is bold as hell even through text— just straight-up calling you out for your bold moves while you sit here like your heart isn’t trying to pound its way out of your chest.

you bite back your grin and type quickly:

focus on your work, ellie.

it takes two seconds for her to respond.

ellie 🌚: seriously? boring. i’d rather fail if it means i get to keep texting you.

you’re being dramatic.

ellie 🌚: what can i say? you make me dramatic. miss me yet?

you shove your phone face down on the desk because if you don’t, you’re going to melt into your seat. you do miss her, and the worst part? she knows it.

your teacher moves on to another slide, and you cave. pick the phone back up.

we literally saw each other an hour ago.

ellie 🌚: felt like a year. don’t punish me for caring.

you press your hand over your mouth, cheeks burning, trying not to let your grin show. she’s impossible.

class is almost over so chill out.

ellie 🌚: waiting sucks. and you still didn’t answer my question.

what question?

ellie 🌚: when are you gonna do it again?

what exactly??

ellie 🌚: touch me like that.

your stomach drops straight through the floor. you stare at the words so long your vision blurs, pulse hammering like you just ran laps.

but before you can type back, the bell rings.

———

you stare at the screen for a long beat, thumb hovering, heart pounding so hard it feels like it’s in your throat.

finally you type and send:

i guess we’ll just have to wait and see.

you slid your phone into your pocket, the words burning like fire against your leg.

and for the rest of the walk, you can’t stop thinking about the way ellie looked at you— like you were already hers.

and maybe that’s the scariest part.

because this? these light touches, these stolen glances, these texts that make your heart sprint? they feel harmless now, a total game.

but deep down, you know better.

you’re not sure when it started feeling like this— like more. but you do know one thing: if you keep playing, you’re going to lose.

and yet, for some reason, you can’t wait for the next round.

(ch. 01)

highschool au! ,, a heartbreaker ellie williams x cheerleader reader

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𝐬𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲: you’re the cheerleader with the perfect smile, effortless charm, and a reputation for being untouchable. but everything shifts when the school’s notorious heartbreaker, the ellie williams known for chewing girls up and spitting them out, sets her eyes on you. some slow burn will keep you company throughout this chapter + text messages.

𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐝 𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭: 2.2k

𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞𝐬: highschool! au, ellie is a heartbreaker, reader is the bubbly cheerleader, slight angst, slow-burn, flirty tension, lesbian drama, more fluff, pet names, popularity.

𝐚/𝐧: actually spent two days writing this first chapter… had a lot going on in my mind while writing this :p

> i did not fully proof read the whole thing (sorry)!!!!

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𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝟎𝟏: 𝐡𝐞𝐲, 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐞𝐫𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐞𝐫

< index > ,, next chapter >

everyone knows your name.

that’s not even you being cocky— just honest. the halls you walk in everyday are loud and filled with voices that shout your name. not because they know you, but because they like the version they think you are.

pretty. polished. perfect.

they whisper it behind cheap lip gloss and hallway lockers, mostly in groups. they chant it during pep rallies, paint it on signs held high above the bleachers. and you loved it. you have a reputation. not the one you asked for.

you’re the kind of girl other girls want to be best friends with— and the kind of girl guys want to ask out, but rarely do. like they think you’re too much, or maybe they’re scared they won’t be enough.

but none of that mattered until she started looking at you like you were the one who wasn’t enough.

—

she’s not a football player, she doesn’t even play any sport. she just exists, being cool and untouchable. she’s the type who wears her hoodie even when it’s hot outside, earbuds in, sleeves pushed up, biting her nails when she’s bored and girls’ hearts when she’s not.

ellie williams was the kind of girl everyone warned each other about.

and you? you didn’t listen.

you knew who she was, you heard the stories. you even saw the looks. you definitely weren’t blind.

but there was something about the way she’d glance at you from across the hallway, like she was studying you. like she already knew what your voice sounded like when you got nervous.

and maybe that was the stupid part. you didn’t just see the heartbreaker, you saw the girl underneath.

you don’t even know her full schedule. you just know she appears when you least expect her and makes you forget how to breathe.

—

you still remember the first time you two spoke.

it’s all you’ve been thinking about—obsessively, stupidly — and it only happened a week ago.

but now, every time you walk past the science hall or see a shadow leaned too casually against a locker, you find yourself looking for her. waiting for something else to happen. something more.

the hallway smells like citrus floor wax and a ton of different perfumes and colognes mixed together. third period had just ended, and it’s that time of the day where people forget how to walk like normal human beings. you dodge a couple making out near a vending machine and a freshmen sprinting for the bathroom, keeping your head high.

you walk like you own the floor. because in all honesty, you kind of do. your cheer bow stands out as your signature accessory. your pleated skirt sways with each step, sneakers squeaking ever so slightly on the floor. every movement feels choreographed. polished. effortless.

you stop at your locker, twisting the combo until the metal creaks open with a groan.

that’s when you feel it. not a voice, not even a sound. just eyes. a weight at the back of your neck, a flutter in your stomach before your mind even catches up. you glance sideways, and there’s ellie.

six lockers down, leaned so casually

against the row like she’s lived there her whole life. one leg bent, converse pressed against the metal. she has her overshirt flannel sleeves pushed past her elbows with a slight messy half up half down bun. she’s chewing her wad of gum slowly, lazily— like she’s bored, but not really.

you tell yourself not to stare, isn’t that rude?

but her presence is loud, even in silence. the kind of loud that makes your chest feel full and tight and light all at once.

she’s not looking at you. but then…

her gaze lifts slowly. like it takes actual effort. her eyes meet yours, and it’s… God. it’s something. her mouth curls, just barely. a smirk, but softer. more curious than cocky, and it makes your heartbeat trip.

“hey, cheerleader,” she says.

like it’s your name, like she’s said it a thousand times before and you’re just now catching up. your breath hitches and you swallow. try to look cool.

“yeah?”

there’s a beat of silence and her gaze skims over you— not sleazy nor possessive… more intentionally. then she shifts, fluidly, pushing off the locker she’s made of smoke and secrets.

“you always smile like that?” she asks as she walks past.

your brows pinch. “like what?”

she doesn’t look back, just shrugs and keeps walking.

“like you don’t mean it.”

and gone just like that. you’re left standing there, staring at the empty space where she just was, locker door still wide open and your heart absolutely ruined.

—

and finally something happened.

earlier this morning, you were by your locker, fixing your hair, when you catch her leaning across from you— sprawled lazily against the lockers like this was her hallway and you were just passing through. her eyes meet yours, and she smirks. “your hair is looking a little much, don’t you think?” you blink, then smile. “you’re watching me that hard?” ellie shrugs, not even trying to deny it. “can’t help it. you’re loud.” then she’s gone. just like that. she leaves a ghost of a grin on your lips and a flush crawling up your neck. you hear one of your best friends, juliana, whistle low as she approaches. “and there she goes again, the devil with the great freckles splattered across her face.”

you laugh, clutching your binder to your chest like it’ll calm your heart. “she wasn’t flirting.”

“babes,” juliana says, “she was practically licking her lips.”

you try not to grin. absolute fail.

now, it was lunchtime. you finally snap back to reality after replaying your most recent interaction with ellie. you’re sitting with your girls at your usual table, still buzzing. the squad is talking about outfit themed for next week’s spirit days, but you head has been somewhere else.

“so,” you finally spoke, voice soft and leaning in, “she talked to me today.”

silence filled the air around the table. then: the collective inhale of drama.

“ellie williams? she’s finally saying something to you?” one of your members, sadie says, eyes wide and questioning.

you nod, trying not to look too excited. “at my locker.” the girls exchange glances, some smile and others fake theirs.

“she’s… interesting,” juliana offers carefully

“she’s trouble,” whispers another.

“she’s hot,” you say plainly, and they groan, playful but worried. juliana leans in close, quieter now. “i know you’ve got this whole fantasy playing out in your head, but don’t forget who she is.”

you nod, knowingly. you know that ellie is the girl who hooks up with girls and ghosts them immediately. who leaves girls giggling at their lockers one day and crying in the bathroom the next. but still…

“she makes it hard not to hope,” you say.

juliana just looks at you, lips pressed into a line. “she’s good at that.”

LATER ON…

the final period of the day always drags.

you file into class with that usual lightness in your step, still on edge from earlier—that locker moment looping in your brain like it’s a scene from some teen drama. you weren’t expecting her to speak to you, let alone leave you with a line that had you questioning your own damn smile. your friends said that ellie never talks that long, but that she lingers and never looks.

but she did. at you. that must mean something.

you slide into your seat by the window, the afternoon sun slanting across your desk. you pull your pen from you bag, about to click it when—

a figure drops into the desk next to yours, loud and purposeful. you don’t even have to look to know who it is.

your breath catches. she smells like spearmint gum and cheap cologne and something a little sharper. her knee bumps yours, and she doesn’t move it. you glance over and lookie lookie— it’s ellie. this time she’s wearing a hoodie, and her hair in a messy way that looks intentional. and that same cocky look resting on her mouth.

“hey” she says. smooth like this is normal.

you blink. “hey.”

she leans back like she’s lived in that chair forever. “didn’t know you were in this class.”

you hum, pretending to be distracted by the worksheet being passed down the row. “maybe you just don’t pay attention.”

“ouch,” she pretends to winces, hand pressed over her heart. “you wound me, cheerleader.”

your lips twitch. “it’s y/n, actually.”

she nods, mock serious. “right. y/n. cheerleader. same thing.”

you’re about to say something snarky back when the teacher announces a partner activity. something simple— a worksheet on character motives from a novel you’re reading. and now you know what’s coming.

“all right, pair up!”

you watch ellie stretch, arms behind her head like she’s so put out by the assignment. then she glances at you, eyes crinkling.

“guess its fate, huh, cheerleader?”

you roll your eyes. “or seating charts.”

ellie grins. “same thing.”

—

the worksheet is easy, just five questions. but it takes you double the time, mostly because she keeps making comments under her breath that make you snort or hide your smile in your sleeve. like when she misquotes the book on purpose just to get a reaction out of you.

“you’re not even trying,” you whisper.

“i’m trying to impress you,“ she whispers back.

you freeze. completely. yet she doesn’t.

ellie just keeps twirling her pen and giving you that lopsided grin like she didn’t just say something that made your heart hiccup. eventually, you finished the worksheet— barely. ellie’s handwriting’s a complete mess, yours neat and slanted. your hands brush when you hand it up to the teacher and neither of you pulls away first.

then it’s quiet again as the class winds down. the hum of the projector and the sunlight turning gold across the desks.

ellie nudges your elbow. “here,” she says, sliding her phone across your desk. “put your number in.”

you raise an eyebrow. “for what?”

“in case we ever have another worksheet,” ellie say with her voice low, teasing. “or if i forget my notes. or if i randomly feel like texting someone cute.”

your face heats up, but you try to play it cool. “that last one doesn’t sound very academic, ellie.”

she leans in, voice soft— almost gentle.

“i never said it was.”

you take the phone and type your number, adding a little cheerleader emoji next to your name. when you pass it back, she types something quickly, then your phone buzzes.

[unknown number]: hey, cutie

you glance over at her. but she’s already look at you, smiling. and for a second, everything feels stupidly simple. like this could actually be something.

too bad you haven’t seen the ending yet. but now all you wish is for this day to be over with.

—

the final bell shrills though the halls, a little too loud, a little too sharp— but you barely register it.

you’re still warm from earlier, from the worksheet and the back-and-forth with ellie. from that look she gave you when you handed her phone back. your friends rush out of the classroom like it’s the last day of school, but you take your time packing up. you cap your pen slowly and stack your notebooks neatly.

you’re completely calm on the outside.

but inside? chaos.

you risk a glance. ellie is still sitting in her chair, legs stretched out and ankles crossed. one hand tucked behind her head, and the other lazily spinning her pen between her fingers. she’s not in a rush, not even pretending to be.

ellie glances your way, eyebrows lifted like she caught you staring, yet you were.

“you always this slow?”

you shoulder your bag, trying not to look too smiley. “maybe i just want the day to end.”

she stands, grabbing her hoodie off the back of the chair and tugging it on. she’s got that smirk again— but it’s smaller, softer.

“you walking?”

you blink. “yeah.”

a beat. then: “i’ll walk with you.”

just like that. no big deal. just a simple offer. you nod, stunned silent, and follow her out the door.

—

the walk is quiet at first, but not in a bad way. in a quiet way that feels natural, comfortable. the suns low in the sky, throwing gold steaks across the pavement. you can hear the buzz of the school’s speakers echoing somewhere in the distance, announcements about club meetings. there’s a light breeze that keeps catching the ends of ellie’s hair, brushing it into her face.

she just lets it, doesn’t even try to fix it.

”so…” she finally spoke after a few blocks, hands stuffed in her pockets.

“you always get that many people looking at you in the hallway?”

you laugh. “i don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“i think you do.”

you nudge her shoulder with yours. “you watched me like everyone else.”

ellie shrugs. “maybe.”

you pause at your street corner, the one that curves off into a quiet stretch of neighborhood. “this is me.”

ellie stops, rocking back on her heels. “right. see you at school tomorrow?”

“definitely.”

and then ellie does something small but dangerous— she tugs at the end of your bow. just a little flick of her fingers.

“cute,” she says. “matches your whole thing.”

you’re left speechless. once again.

ellie doesn’t wait for you to answer, she just turns on her heel and walks off like she didn’t just ruin your life with one stupid word.

—

by the time you’re in your room, you’ve collapsed face-first onto your bed and squealed into your pillow no less than four times.

you pick up your phone laying next to you, quickly opening your messages and clicking juliana’s profile.

JULSSS IM DYING

KM DUING PLES

i’m gonna cry i think she likes me

JULS📣: spill or i’m pulling up.

JULS📣: DON’T make me leave my nail appointment

ELLIE LITERALLY SAT NEXT TO ME AND WE TOUCHED KNEES. AND HANDS. BUT NOT HANDS YET

WE PARTNERED UP FOR A WORKSHEET AND SHE’S SO FUNNY SHE’S SO CUTE

oh my gof LIKE LITERALLY

JULS📣: that’s nice hunny❤️

DEADASS JULS STOP PLAYING WITH ME

I HAVE HER NUMBER!!! SHE SLID HER PHONE TO ME AND WAS LIKE “put your number in so i can text a cutie like you when i’m bored” 🤤

JULS📣: jesus y/n…

SHE SAID IT WAY COOLER THAN HOW I SAID IT BUT

SHE LITERALLY WALKED ME HOME AND ONGMDK

you’re laughing into your phone until a new notification buzzes.

it’s ellie, texting you. you. and you don’t make her wait for a message back.

ellie 🌚: what’s your favorite candy?

you freeze and stare at her message for half a second too long. then quickly typing your response.

uhh.. anything sweet or fruity

wait why??

ellie 🌚: just in case i wanted to leave something in your locker sometime.

you stare at the messages, maybe for too long.

your heart’s doing full cartwheels now, tumbling across your ribcage like it’s not even attached anymore. you bite your lip, staring at the screen. your lips slowly shift into a small smirk.

okay. this is it.

you tryna sweeten me up or something?

ellie 🌚: there’s no need for that. you already smile when you see me

ellie 🌚: oh i know. i’ve been watching.

you stare. then shriek. actually shriek.

your phone slips out of your hand and hits the hard floor, but you’re too busy kicking your feet and smiling like a complete idiot to care.

you grab your phone again, heart racing, with your thumbs hovering over the screen as you reread the texts over and over. you’re dead. you’ve died.

you roll over, heart pounding and your eyes wide. then your eyes flick back to the last message ellie sent.

“i’ve been watching.”

and suddenly you can’t wait for tomorrow. not for the students. not the food. not your studies.

01; 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓

(series) (index)

𝐏𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆: highschool! au, heartbreaker ellie williams x cheerleader reader .

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𝐒𝐔𝐌𝐌𝐀𝐑𝐘: you’re the golden girl — the cheerleader that everybody loves, wants, gossips. you have a reputation, not that you wanted it. then there’s ellie williams, a natural heartbreaker who suddenly has laid her eyes on you. but then you realize that ellie is taking her time with you for the first time in never, because all the other girls she uses are gone immediately… so what makes you so different?

+ abby, dina, and jesse are mentioned in this fic.

———

𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐒: highschool! au, ellie is a heartbreaker, ellie is a bitch, reader is the bubbly cheerleader, angst, swearing, slow-burn, emotional tension, lesbian drama, fluff, pet names, messy feelings, popularity, secrecy.

———

𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑𝐒 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄: actually giggled and kicked my feet making this haha :3 the title and whole story is kind of based of the song by my mother adele, so i hope you enjoy! this is actually my first time making something like this. make sure to follow and stay in touch for more chapters :))

ps. i might change around the chapters (titles), it’s fully depends on how i act i organize each chapter lolol

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𝐈𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐗:

chapter 01: “hey, cheerleader”

chapter 02: “close enough to notice”

chapter 03: “the quiet parts”

chapter 04: ???

chapter 05: ???

i’ll make sure to feed you guys very well whenever i can… haha

chapter 1 of my new fic is almost finished so STAY TUNED!

i’m thinking about doing an angsty story starring THE ellie williams.

how does a school heartbreaker ellie x bubbly cheerleader reader sound? i think it sounds great…

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𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝟏 (here!) < ,, > 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐓 𝟐

> 𝐌𝐀𝐒𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐋𝐈𝐒𝐓 < 𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐦𝐨𝐫𝐞

𝐏𝐀𝐈𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆: loser!ellie williams x reader (fluff)

𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐓𝐄𝐍𝐓 𝐈𝐍𝐂𝐋𝐔𝐃𝐄𝐒: nerdy, loser ellie williams, ellie is crushing on dear reader, highschool au, cute moments, dorky ellie, she is full of embarrassment and love (she can’t help it)

𝐀𝐔𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐑𝐒 𝐍𝐎𝐓𝐄: i decided to stick with what i’m familiar with my first post! hope u like it :p

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loser ellie as your highschool girlfriend would…

⟢ draw in her journals a lot— mostly sketches of places she’s been and the people she meets. before you two got together, she would sketch you without you knowing. it was a secret until you hovered over her shoulder, watching her do her final touches, then complimenting her work— leaving her flustered.

⟢ occasionally think about the day when she finally confesses to you. it definitely had to be one of her more awkward experiences, yet you found it cute. “so.. like.. if i were to say uhm. hypothetically. had feelings for you. like biiiggg ones.”

“…ellie.”

“i’m saying i love you, okay? don’t make me say it again.. i might die.”

⟢ always wear the same band tees, hoodies, cargo pants, jeans, and flannel overshirts with her beat-up converse. her looks always comes with a faint scent of cheap cologne.

⟢ will always need to touch you. ellie will hold pinky’s with you under the desk that you both share. some days she’ll hold your hand, caressing her thumb over it. she loves how soft your hands are and is always gentle.

⟢ will follow you wherever you go. ellie would wait by your locker, hoping to chat about plans you have after school or school projects. she’ll always walk with you to class and insists on carrying your things if you were tired (or just snatches it from your grasp).

“ellie, your class is in the opposite direction.”

“okay, so?? just let me do this.”

⟢ gives you her hoodie in class when you tell her you’re cold. she sulks when she sees you in it because of how good you look in her clothes.

⟢ will carry a photo of you in her binder. she’ll look at the photo of you when she misses you in class.

⟢ will softly sing to the songs that you hum without knowing, whether it’s her playing on the guitar or as you both listen to a song.

⟢ will play songs for you on her guitar but gets all shy about it. “just- just don’t look at me while i do it, ‘kay?”

“ellie, i have to look at you.”

“no, just stare at the floor or something…”

⟢ will always get red when you give her a kiss before you guys part ways to separate classes and after when walks you home. she feels flustered but she loves it and you know it.

⟢ will text you during class, probably complaining about her teacher and her annoying classmates. but she will most definitely text you about how much she’s missing you and how she wants to spend time with you.