🦋

daring and pretty much unbothered over the fact that you've stolen one of james' shirt from his closet, which absolutely looks quite baggy on you yet comfortably fitting at the same time.

cressida and monroe aren't home at the moment as well, and james is probably bonding himself with some other wherever he is. they probably will return late, which leaves you at home all by yourself.

except it doesn't even last longer after you have such a thought. james ended up returning home first while the two are nowhere to be seen yet.

he appears to be a little too smug over the fact that you're wearing his shirt.

"well, what do we have here..." what a sight for his eyes only.

"what." you attempted to retain your newly deadpanned demeanor and response, narrowing your eyes sassily. "don't blame me now. it's your fault for having such comfy shirts to wear during these hellish weather."

his eyes lowered momentarily upon your form, before returning back upwards as to where your face is; remaining there as long as he's able to.

"i can see that."

you wanted to retort something back, but settled with a brief silence instead. his usual magnetic smirk and the mischievous glint in his eyes were all too evident— sauntering closer towards where you stood.

it causes your face to instinctively grew warmer, holding out a random broom stick that you managed to grab from wherever it is from; holding it in front of you and him. perhaps as a way of threatening him away or wanting to beat his ass with it, just because you can.

nonetheless, james didn't seem to be bothered by it. in fact, he finds it utterly comical at this point.

"darling, is that supposed to scare me?"

"perhaps. your pick." you casually shrugged, pretending not to be all giddy upon hearing the pet name, which seemed to naturally roll off his tongue so easily. how unfair.

before he got the chance to reply or speak anything at all, you literally throw the broom stick at his direction— trying to do some mini distraction before running around the house so that he doesn't get to you.

how wrong you were.

of course, james is clearly known to be able to handle anything that's being thrown his way, which includes this. he flawlessly dodges the 'attack', refusing to waste any more time before chasing you, much to your short-lived excitement and sudden dismay at the same time.

the chase lasted for a solid few minutes before james ultimately managed to corner you against the kitchen wall. you flailed helplessly as he lifted you with effortless ease afterwards, casually throwing you over his shoulder.

"okay, jokes over put me down—!"

"i don't think that's going to happen soon, love."

he stated smugly with such confidence, not intending to let you down anytime soon as a payback. oh, how you hated his ass for this. it only took you a few moments before realizing he wouldn't want to set you down— not yet anyways, so you eventually, and reluctantly complied.

"good girl."

james basically carried you to his room, just because he finds your behavior amusing (and whatever he intends to do with you since cress and monroe aren't home yet either). why not use this given opportunity, right?

"try anything and i'll kick your balls so hard it'll fly off through this apartment's window."

when he finally turns his head to properly look at you from the side, he looks a bit baffled, mixing together with a challenging yet amused look.

"i like to see you try, sweetheart."

daring and pretty much unbothered over the fact that you've stolen one of james' shirt from his closet, which absolutely looks quite baggy on you yet comfortably fitting at the same time.

cressida and monroe aren't home at the moment as well, and james is probably bonding himself with some other wherever he is. they probably will return late, which leaves you at home all by yourself.

except it doesn't even last longer after you have such a thought. james ended up returning home first while the two are nowhere to be seen yet.

he appears to be a little too smug over the fact that you're wearing his shirt.

"well, what do we have here..." what a sight for his eyes only.

"what." you attempted to retain your newly deadpanned demeanor and response, narrowing your eyes sassily. "don't blame me now. it's your fault for having such comfy shirts to wear during these hellish weather."

his eyes lowered momentarily upon your form, before returning back upwards as to where your face is; remaining there as long as he's able to.

"i can see that."

you wanted to retort something back, but settled with a brief silence instead. his usual magnetic smirk and the mischievous glint in his eyes were all too evident— sauntering closer towards where you stood.

it causes your face to instinctively grew warmer, holding out a random broom stick that you managed to grab from wherever it is from; holding it in front of you and him. perhaps as a way of threatening him away or wanting to beat his ass with it, just because you can.

nonetheless, james didn't seem to be bothered by it. in fact, he finds it utterly comical at this point.

"darling, is that supposed to scare me?"

"perhaps. your pick." you casually shrugged, pretending not to be all giddy upon hearing the pet name, which seemed to naturally roll off his tongue so easily. how unfair.

before he got the chance to reply or speak anything at all, you literally throw the broom stick at his direction— trying to do some mini distraction before running around the house so that he doesn't get to you.

how wrong you were.

of course, james is clearly known to be able to handle anything that's being thrown his way, which includes this. he flawlessly dodges the 'attack', refusing to waste any more time before chasing you, much to your short-lived excitement and sudden dismay at the same time.

the chase lasted for a solid few minutes before james ultimately managed to corner you against the kitchen wall. you flailed helplessly as he lifted you with effortless ease afterwards, casually throwing you over his shoulder.

"okay, jokes over put me down—!"

"i don't think that's going to happen soon, love."

he stated smugly with such confidence, not intending to let you down anytime soon as a payback. oh, how you hated his ass for this. it only took you a few moments before realizing he wouldn't want to set you down— not yet anyways, so you eventually, and reluctantly complied.

"good girl."

james basically carried you to his room, just because he finds your behavior amusing (and whatever he intends to do with you since cress and monroe aren't home yet either). why not use this given opportunity, right?

"try anything and i'll kick your balls so hard it'll fly off through this apartment's window."

when he finally turns his head to properly look at you from the side, he looks a bit baffled, mixing together with a challenging yet amused look.

"i like to see you try, sweetheart."

James starts by stopping at the café, a look of pure contemplation crosses over his features for a solid few moments, before quickly schools it back into his neutral one. The tiny bell chimes near the top of the doorframe as he enters; several customers having their own chatters and simply enjoying their own lives together as he finds a perfect spot just near the window area.

Also can be deemed as strategic so he could easily watch over you.

You serving customers with such vibrancy radiating off from you; the corner of your lips tugging upwards without any second thoughts being spared, gracing your features ever so perfectly and naturally so.

There is, indeed, traces of exhaustion managed to be hidden by you, but you easily pushed it aside for now.

His eyes inadvertently (a part of it, at least) landed upon your busied figure, and it stays that way further when you finally decided to approach him with a charming smile as per usual.

"Good afternoon, sir! What can I get for you today?" You politely questioned while holding onto a small notepad and a pen.

James could say that you've successfully, yet unexpectedly charmed him with your mere existing energy alone— returning the same expression as yours while ordering his desired drink and a random pastry that had caught his eye some time earlier.

You were clearly unaware, but it's a part of his self-excuse so that he could get more time within the café itself.

"Alright! I'll return back to you shortly!"

His eyes never once left your temporary retreating form, slightly adjusting his posture on his seat as he patiently waits for his order— having his gaze shifted sporadically around and out through the window every once in a while, as a precaution.

And it definitely doesn't stop there.

From that one day and onwards, James starts to stop by the café as often as he could. Part of it is due to his given mission, but the other, however... he can't seem to find the proper answer just yet.

Was it because of your constant optimism, or even the cozy, yet pleasant atmosphere that the place seemed to radiate?

Or was it because of you as a whole?

It undeniably draws him in further and further, no matter how many times he has stopped by there. One of them must be the case, he believes, or logically speaking— all of the listed reasons in his head altogether.

He finds himself looking forward for each interaction and visits. If he could, he would've gone there every single day. That is, if M doesn't randomly add another task to his list.

You're not sure yourself if he's aware to it or no (highly likely, no), but you did feel your mood significantly changing whenever he appears for some odd reason. You weren't supposed to act nor think of it that way— he's one of the local customers, for goodness sake!

How dare you for even considering an attractive young man to be the exact source of your main motivation as for currently.

But then again, could you blame yourself?

"Oooh, I think he likes you!" Your friend teases as she cleans the remaining dishes in the sink, which earned a playful eyeroll from you as an immediate reply.

"What makes you think that?"

"Isn't it like, obvious?" She dramatically exhales while placing her hand on her hip, staring at you in utter disbelief. "He keeps on coming here, and I noticed the secret glances he has thrown your way!"

That caught your attention so quick.

"What?"

"Hell, he even asked about you on the days that you didn't show up to work!"

"He— what??" It genuinely sends you into a baffled state, clealy caught off guard by the revelation. There's no way that the same, exact charming guy actually does all that.

Or James was his name, if your memory serves you correctly. Much thanks to your friend who actually has the courage to ask.

"I think you should, you know..." She wiggles her eyebrows teasingly once more, where at this point, you simply smacked her left arm playfully.

"Oh come on."

"Get back to work." You brush her off and shake your head, as if attempting to, at least, clear the unwanted thoughts that's beginning to sneak within your mind uninvitedly, especially one that involves him.

Life surely has its' own way to keep one entertained and even going, if not frustrated over the mere sight of taxes, necessity bills whatsoever. Living itself has already provided its' advantages, and of course, the disadvantages that comes along with it as a full-life package.

As for today, you've been trying your best to enjoy your given day off by wandering along the streets of London by the pavements— the apparent sight of various people passing by, whether with their beloved ones or even alone, simply spending their time with little care to the world, even for a moment.

Eventually, your legs stopped just in front of one of the convenience stores, initially intending only to roam around the available aisles as your eyes keeps averting to each item every once in a while; pure thoughts being your only present company.

That is, until your attention lands upon the sight of a familiar man approaching close by. It's practically impossible to ignore or even pretend not to notice, knowing that the same exact person stops by the café you're working at with every chance he gets.

At first, you attempted to grab any snacks that seemed to catch your eye nearby and head straight to the register without looking back. It's not that you have any personal issues with him, no. But rather, you feel a tad bit (or more) bashful by simply being around him.

But just by your luck, he beats you to it, immediately paying for the items you've chosen and his own altogether. James spares an amused glance toward your way, understanding it so quick, judging by the looks you're currently giving him.

He didn't back away however— throwing his usual charming smirk as if the act itself is nothing. "You're welcome."

It causes you to turn your head away momentarily afterwards, clearly shying away and unused to such gesture that it leads you to exit the store, with him following close by within seconds after.

James didn't mention it out loud, but he genuinely finds your behaviour endearing. Nonetheless, he just silently hoped that he didn't get on your nerves too much.

With a force turn of your head toward him because clearly, the feeling from earlier hasn't left you (all thanks to this charming man next to you), you managed to pick up some of your thoughts to actually speak out loud.

"It's nice to see you around, James."

"Ah," he looks impressed. "So, you know my name."

"Heard it from a friend actually."

"I'm flattered."

"You should be," you bluntly responded, before your eyes widened slightly out of realization.

"I, uhh... never mind."

"I feel like you're worrying too much."

You held back the urge to glare at him because you didn't really appreciate that this guy got the guts to call you out, even though he's deadly correct about it.

"I'm not."

"You are."

James stated in a matter-of-fact manner, his eyes properly gazing down at you. "You keep avoiding eye contact with me. Am I too charming for you to handle?"

This man is unbelievable, making you want to either punch his pretty face or even squeeze the life out of him—

A loud gunshot collides with the glass of the convenience store from before, causing the glass to shatter everywhere and some remnants of it falls on you both. James managed to use his quick reflexes to instantly yank you backwards towards temporal safety.

You could feel the warmth of his breath emanating against your skin due to the close proximity you both shared, trying your absolute best to keep your heartbeat steady after the sudden, targeted attack. But to no avail, which is made worse by the pounding headache you're experiencing.

"Guess it's tired of hiding now."

"What—" your words were abruptly cut short when he began to drag you with him out of the momentary hiding spot by holding your hand as firmly as he could; awaiting as the next attack seemed to pause, taking it as a sign of limited opportunity. You had no other choice but to follow his lead because obviously, this wasn't an ideal place to die.

James didn't stop until you both arrived at the alleyway where the car has parked there neatly, which made you immediately assume that it is his car.

"Get in!"

You didn't respond, getting into the passenger's seat as quick as you could while James into the driver's seat, putting the car keys into the ignition before driving off with an unbothered, terrifying speed, which has you gripping onto the seat a little too hard even though you already had your seatbelt on.

"Who are they?!"

"Questions later," he turned briefly to check the side mirror. "We're going somewhere safer."

Learning how futile it is to spark any argument, you forced yourself to comply, staying silent as pure fear coursed from within you along with the need to know. You hate for not knowing.

It takes roughly a few minutes before James parked his car at the assigned parking area in front of a large building, which you assumed was a suite or even a hotel. Why would he even bring you here is the real question.

"Where are we?" You questioned a bit warily as he opens your car door, exiting and following his lead without wasting any second, knowing all too well that you have to rely on him for now.

"Somewhere safer," he spoke while getting into the elevator with you trailing close by. Your eyes gradually stare at the elevator doors closing in, eventually arriving directly at one of the suites.

The perplexed state of your mind definitely didn't help much, scanning around the spacious room, just in case— allowing your fingers to trace every available items carefully, inspectively.

James tossed the keys onto the main marble table nearby; his smirk is gone at this point, replaced with a look of borderline contemplation and pure apprehension.

Taking a few steps closer to your form, he begins to take off his coat to place upon your now visibly shaking body, causing you to flinch slightly due to the unexpected contact.

With a soft exhale, he ultimately pulls you into a warm embrace, placing one of his hands on the back of your head tenderly while the other is wrapped around your waist securely. You couldn't help but to lean into the genuine touch he's offering.

"I'm going to keep you safe."

"They saw you, and it's too dangerous for you to return out there, for now." He stated in a calm yet patient tone, lowering his voice ever so slightly as to not frighten you further— his hands never once left your own, rubbing soothing circles over your back.

"I'm scared..." You managed to utter out, holding onto him as if he's the closest thing to a lifeline at this exact moment. He nods a little, understanding the emotions you're possibly feeling right now.

"I know... I'm sorry for that."

"But I'm going to ensure your safety here, alright?"

"You can trust me. You're safe with me."

That's when the heavy, yet truthful realization settles in from within you. You can no longer return to your old life, and you never will know when you're able to. So, you're left with no choice, but to allow this charming customer who used to return to the café you're working at to protect you from the potential dangers out there.

James starts by stopping at the café, a look of pure contemplation crosses over his features for a solid few moments, before quickly schools it back into his neutral one. The tiny bell chimes near the top of the doorframe as he enters; several customers having their own chatters and simply enjoying their own lives together as he finds a perfect spot just near the window area.

Also can be deemed as strategic so he could easily watch over you.

You serving customers with such vibrancy radiating off from you; the corner of your lips tugging upwards without any second thoughts being spared, gracing your features ever so perfectly and naturally so.

There is, indeed, traces of exhaustion managed to be hidden by you, but you easily pushed it aside for now.

His eyes inadvertently (a part of it, at least) landed upon your busied figure, and it stays that way further when you finally decided to approach him with a charming smile as per usual.

"Good afternoon, sir! What can I get for you today?" You politely questioned while holding onto a small notepad and a pen.

James could say that you've successfully, yet unexpectedly charmed him with your mere existing energy alone— returning the same expression as yours while ordering his desired drink and a random pastry that had caught his eye some time earlier.

You were clearly unaware, but it's a part of his self-excuse so that he could get more time within the café itself.

"Alright! I'll return back to you shortly!"

His eyes never once left your temporary retreating form, slightly adjusting his posture on his seat as he patiently waits for his order— having his gaze shifted sporadically around and out through the window every once in a while, as a precaution.

And it definitely doesn't stop there.

From that one day and onwards, James starts to stop by the café as often as he could. Part of it is due to his given mission, but the other, however... he can't seem to find the proper answer just yet.

Was it because of your constant optimism, or even the cozy, yet pleasant atmosphere that the place seemed to radiate?

Or was it because of you as a whole?

It undeniably draws him in further and further, no matter how many times he has stopped by there. One of them must be the case, he believes, or logically speaking— all of the listed reasons in his head altogether.

He finds himself looking forward for each interaction and visits. If he could, he would've gone there every single day. That is, if M doesn't randomly add another task to his list.

You're not sure yourself if he's aware to it or no (highly likely, no), but you did feel your mood significantly changing whenever he appears for some odd reason. You weren't supposed to act nor think of it that way— he's one of the local customers, for goodness sake!

How dare you for even considering an attractive young man to be the exact source of your main motivation as for currently.

But then again, could you blame yourself?

"Oooh, I think he likes you!" Your friend teases as she cleans the remaining dishes in the sink, which earned a playful eyeroll from you as an immediate reply.

"What makes you think that?"

"Isn't it like, obvious?" She dramatically exhales while placing her hand on her hip, staring at you in utter disbelief. "He keeps on coming here, and I noticed the secret glances he has thrown your way!"

That caught your attention so quick.

"What?"

"Hell, he even asked about you on the days that you didn't show up to work!"

"He— what??" It genuinely sends you into a baffled state, clealy caught off guard by the revelation. There's no way that the same, exact charming guy actually does all that.

Or James was his name, if your memory serves you correctly. Much thanks to your friend who actually has the courage to ask.

"I think you should, you know..." She wiggles her eyebrows teasingly once more, where at this point, you simply smacked her left arm playfully.

"Oh come on."

"Get back to work." You brush her off and shake your head, as if attempting to, at least, clear the unwanted thoughts that's beginning to sneak within your mind uninvitedly, especially one that involves him.

Life surely has its' own way to keep one entertained and even going, if not frustrated over the mere sight of taxes, necessity bills whatsoever. Living itself has already provided its' advantages, and of course, the disadvantages that comes along with it as a full-life package.

As for today, you've been trying your best to enjoy your given day off by wandering along the streets of London by the pavements— the apparent sight of various people passing by, whether with their beloved ones or even alone, simply spending their time with little care to the world, even for a moment.

Eventually, your legs stopped just in front of one of the convenience stores, initially intending only to roam around the available aisles as your eyes keeps averting to each item every once in a while; pure thoughts being your only present company.

That is, until your attention lands upon the sight of a familiar man approaching close by. It's practically impossible to ignore or even pretend not to notice, knowing that the same exact person stops by the café you're working at with every chance he gets.

At first, you attempted to grab any snacks that seemed to catch your eye nearby and head straight to the register without looking back. It's not that you have any personal issues with him, no. But rather, you feel a tad bit (or more) bashful by simply being around him.

But just by your luck, he beats you to it, immediately paying for the items you've chosen and his own altogether. James spares an amused glance toward your way, understanding it so quick, judging by the looks you're currently giving him.

He didn't back away however— throwing his usual charming smirk as if the act itself is nothing. "You're welcome."

It causes you to turn your head away momentarily afterwards, clearly shying away and unused to such gesture that it leads you to exit the store, with him following close by within seconds after.

James didn't mention it out loud, but he genuinely finds your behaviour endearing. Nonetheless, he just silently hoped that he didn't get on your nerves too much.

With a force turn of your head toward him because clearly, the feeling from earlier hasn't left you (all thanks to this charming man next to you), you managed to pick up some of your thoughts to actually speak out loud.

"It's nice to see you around, James."

"Ah," he looks impressed. "So, you know my name."

"Heard it from a friend actually."

"I'm flattered."

"You should be," you bluntly responded, before your eyes widened slightly out of realization.

"I, uhh... never mind."

"I feel like you're worrying too much."

You held back the urge to glare at him because you didn't really appreciate that this guy got the guts to call you out, even though he's deadly correct about it.

"I'm not."

"You are."

James stated in a matter-of-fact manner, his eyes properly gazing down at you. "You keep avoiding eye contact with me. Am I too charming for you to handle?"

This man is unbelievable, making you want to either punch his pretty face or even squeeze the life out of him—

A loud gunshot collides with the glass of the convenience store from before, causing the glass to shatter everywhere and some remnants of it falls on you both. James managed to use his quick reflexes to instantly yank you backwards towards temporal safety.

You could feel the warmth of his breath emanating against your skin due to the close proximity you both shared, trying your absolute best to keep your heartbeat steady after the sudden, targeted attack. But to no avail, which is made worse by the pounding headache you're experiencing.

"Guess it's tired of hiding now."

"What—" your words were abruptly cut short when he began to drag you with him out of the momentary hiding spot by holding your hand as firmly as he could; awaiting as the next attack seemed to pause, taking it as a sign of limited opportunity. You had no other choice but to follow his lead because obviously, this wasn't an ideal place to die.

James didn't stop until you both arrived at the alleyway where the car has parked there neatly, which made you immediately assume that it is his car.

"Get in!"

You didn't respond, getting into the passenger's seat as quick as you could while James into the driver's seat, putting the car keys into the ignition before driving off with an unbothered, terrifying speed, which has you gripping onto the seat a little too hard even though you already had your seatbelt on.

"Who are they?!"

"Questions later," he turned briefly to check the side mirror. "We're going somewhere safer."

Learning how futile it is to spark any argument, you forced yourself to comply, staying silent as pure fear coursed from within you along with the need to know. You hate for not knowing.

It takes roughly a few minutes before James parked his car at the assigned parking area in front of a large building, which you assumed was a suite or even a hotel. Why would he even bring you here is the real question.

"Where are we?" You questioned a bit warily as he opens your car door, exiting and following his lead without wasting any second, knowing all too well that you have to rely on him for now.

"Somewhere safer," he spoke while getting into the elevator with you trailing close by. Your eyes gradually stare at the elevator doors closing in, eventually arriving directly at one of the suites.

The perplexed state of your mind definitely didn't help much, scanning around the spacious room, just in case— allowing your fingers to trace every available items carefully, inspectively.

James tossed the keys onto the main marble table nearby; his smirk is gone at this point, replaced with a look of borderline contemplation and pure apprehension.

Taking a few steps closer to your form, he begins to take off his coat to place upon your now visibly shaking body, causing you to flinch slightly due to the unexpected contact.

With a soft exhale, he ultimately pulls you into a warm embrace, placing one of his hands on the back of your head tenderly while the other is wrapped around your waist securely. You couldn't help but to lean into the genuine touch he's offering.

"I'm going to keep you safe."

"They saw you, and it's too dangerous for you to return out there, for now." He stated in a calm yet patient tone, lowering his voice ever so slightly as to not frighten you further— his hands never once left your own, rubbing soothing circles over your back.

"I'm scared..." You managed to utter out, holding onto him as if he's the closest thing to a lifeline at this exact moment. He nods a little, understanding the emotions you're possibly feeling right now.

"I know... I'm sorry for that."

"But I'm going to ensure your safety here, alright?"

"You can trust me. You're safe with me."

That's when the heavy, yet truthful realization settles in from within you. You can no longer return to your old life, and you never will know when you're able to. So, you're left with no choice, but to allow this charming customer who used to return to the café you're working at to protect you from the potential dangers out there.

james spawned out of nowhere near the doorway sometime; you didn't even notice nor bothered as much, already sauntering towards your direction with his usual jacket already being taken off, leaving him in a plain white t-shirt— his signature smirk already on full display upon the mere sight of you.

though it falls short once he notices your current expression and the way you seemed to be clutching your stomach every so often, which made him actually realize what is going on.

slowly, he approaches you by sitting on the edge of your shared bed, a little more concerned than per usual as he gently places his hand over your arm, leaning forward just so he could look at you more.

"darling, are you alright?"

his simple question was instantly met with a shake of your head, proving his point further.

it didn't take long before he momentarily moves away from you— ensuring everything has been adjusted. the air conditioner, the curtains, and even goes out of his way to make you an oversized glass of your favorite drink, before returning back to where you were.

you didn't waste any more time to grab onto his hand afterwards, much to his surprise at the suddeness of it all; squeezing it with your own with any energy you have left, pouting with a look that clearly tells 'please don't leave me again', ignoring the drink for a moment there because you genuinely just needed his presence close to you.

with a rather fond sigh, james places the glass atop of the nightstand, positioned himself just as you needed him to be— so cozily near to you.

one of his hands secures its hold on you, yet not to the point of suffocation, while the other lifted your shirt slightly just so he could rub your stomach with the palm of his hand, attempting to ease the pain you're experiencing.

a low hum escaped from you, beginning to shut your eyes as you nuzzled your head into his chest comfortably. all of a sudden, nothing truly bothered you anymore like before.

an amused, yet adoring grin is plastered upon his charming features, continuing the tender motion while his gaze never once leave you, wanting nothing more but to at least, alleviate some of the cramps or whatever you needed him to do.

but today is different. he got a week off, at least— that's what he's informed with, and he's determined to make you fix your horrible sleeping schedule which is a clearly obvious behaviour by now.

"sweetheart, come to bed."

"james, i can't, i—" you tried to refuse while your eyes are already in a swollen-ish state, shaking your head slightly but it didn't last when he ultimately, and swiftly lifts you into a bridal style to bed, earning a surprised squeal from you.

"i won't accept any refusal from you, love. you've been sitting there for hours."

"the bed is starting to get cold without you."

every words that you wanted to speak out as a reply dies down in your throat, beginning to feel guilty as james settles you properly next to him, pulling you closer to the natural warmth he seemed to provide as always.

he never once lets go of his hold around you, planting a kiss atop of your forehead and gently run his thumb along your features— whichever he could reach.

and when he stopped just near where your eyes are, he tenderly attempts to soothe the swollen spot around it; where at this point your eyes has shut on its own from his touch alone.

dear god, you're genuinely, utterly exhausted. he has every right to be mad and scold you for whenever he wants to, and he truly did.

but not for long, no. he couldn't stay annoyed at you no matter how much he wants to at times.

he fears he loves you a little too much. he couldn't even contain the small chuckle from escaping past his lips upon witnessing the sight of you, already falling into your needed slumber just within a few seconds.

with a final peck upon your cheeks, your forehead, and even your nose, he murmurs a simple 'rest well, darling' closely for your hearing only.

even when you failed to realize it as much due to your current state.

The smooth, crisp voice belonged precisely to a male, along with a small tap upon the edge of your desk is enough to snap you out of your work-focused state.

"I'm sorry— yes?"

James sent you his signature smirk as if it's his second nature, albeit slightly smaller than per usual; instinctively leaning down just by a few inches toward your side so that his words reach for your hearing alone.

"Q told me to fetch you and the files to his lab."

"Oh-!" Upon hearing his spoken statement, your eyes widened a little as you arranged some of the needed files into one holdable place.

All while attempting your very best to calm your rapidly beating heart due to the close proximity he has shared with you right at this point. How unfair he is being, torturing you so easily like this. You would never understand as to why or how he has this type of power toward you.

How pathetically embarrassing.

But it's James Bond we're talking about. Any sensible lady would've fallen head over heels for him and his natural charm, it is nothing new.

Then why, one should explain to your unknowing self that his very own gaze never once leave your features— eventually deciding to stand back up all properly again not too long after, and it kept going from that day and onward.

He never really left you alone. No matter what he's doing or if he just returned from a sparring session or even a mission, he'd always show up, orbiting around your very own presence.

It got somewhat worse some weeks later, where you almost assumed that it might be some sort of a curse that the gods have placed upon your helpless state. One time where the stack of files you've been holding threatens to fall and spill all over the floor, thanks to James' quick reflexes, he manages to hold off the entirety of files from spilling over by holding the front of it.

And you. Oh God above… the state of your cheeks just from the mere contact is not helping at all either.

"Are you alright?"

He didn't have his usual charming grin nor a smirk, no. But rather, a serious, concerned look is etched upon his eyes, evidently so. You turned your head upwards to him, and managed a small nod with a relieved exhale.

"I'm alright… Thank you, James."

He would be lying if he says that it didn't make his heart feel a bit strange than usual— doing little skips of… happiness? Eased by the sole fact that you're doing great as always?

Whatever it is he's experiencing, it is definitely new, and it is not the same sensation that any other could ever possibly provide him with. He wanted— no, needed more of it. It feels as if he's in constant need of dopamine, and you are to blame for a part of it.

He wouldn't even want to complain about it, nonetheless.

With a slight clearance of his throat, he begins to help guiding you to the intended place where you truly need to be. "Don't mention it."

"Besides, you seemed to be carrying all of this quite often."

"One of these days, these files are gonna fly out of your hands if I'm not here." With you is what he's meant to say, but purposefully leaves it out.

"You don't have to—"

"I insist. Don't worry about it." His usual charming smirk returns soon after as he interrupts you in the middle of your words smoothly; one of his hands still somehow find its' way to brush against your hand with every chance he gets.

You didn't know why he keeps doing so. But you assumed that it's one of his gentlemanly ways to express it all so naturally like he always does.

But that's not the true reason in all actuality.

You wish there was an explanation as to why on Earth would he ever allow his hands to linger over yours for a minute too long; unflinching set of eyes seemed to zero in on you alone despite the room being full of people who you dared to state as much more interesting and easily, an eye-catcher.

Or why you would oftentimes catch him standing just near the doorframe of the office or simply 'passing by', when the real reason is so that he could, at least, catch a glimpse of you throughout the day. Even when he just returned from an assigned mission, he'd look for you whenever he's free as soon as he could.

It drives you insane because there's no way it's unintentional, right...?

But James Bond isn't making it all easier for you, your poor heart. You'd have to find it out someday for the sake of your restless thoughts.

Which clearly shouldn't have happened at all, especially in the dead of night like this.

Gradually backing away from the said area, one of your legs accidentally stumbled upon a vase that's been placed down below for god-knows-how-long, and of course— it's enough to cause an unwanted sound, albeit something not too loud yet distracting enough, pausing mid conversation as two of the men tried to search for the source of sound.

Damn it!

You cussed under your breath as you immediately choose to run into the direction as to where your office supposed to be at. They hadn't see you yet, thankfully, at least you'd really hope that's the case.

Closing the door behind you as quiet and quick as you could; abruptly shutting the computer system, you then hid yourself underneath the desk afterwards, ensuring internally that you won't get caught in any way.

The mere thought genuinely terrifies you, undoubtedly already working on stabilizing and calm your rapid heartbeat. You believe you'll be fine if you hide down there as long as you need to.

Reaching for your phone from your pocket, you immediately chose to text James hurriedly in pure fear. Footsteps can be heard hitting against the marbled grounds throughout the hallways, where you started to assume that it's likely coming from one of the guys— or even worse, both people from earlier, trying to assure themselves that the two are truly alone.

Checking each and available spaces so that their plans does not leak anywhere, for the sake of their unlawful reputation.

When the noises start to get closer outside, just close enough to your current hiding place; only separated by the walls and the door, you push yourself further underneath the desk, putting your phone onto the ground and cover your mouth using one of your hands.

Please please don't get any closer…

Some few moments have passed for a bit later on, your eyes go wide ever so slightly once you heard the sound of glass shattering somewhere from a certain direction out there— sounds of someone getting their asses beaten is evident for your ears alone, leading you to instinctively cover your ears out of genuine trepidation.

Your body shakes slightly without even realizing it at first; nearly shrieked when someone crouches down to meet you face-to-face, shutting your eyes by instant.

"Hey, it's me." The familiar voice attempts to soothe you in a reassuring manner, gently placing his warm hands over your own, lowering them slowly.

"It's alright," he added further. "I tracked your location once I received your message as soon as I could."

Your eyes deliberately opened, ultimately landed upon his figure with a much more relieved expression crossing over your features. It didn't even take long before you allowed yourself to fall into his arms with such unafraid ease— holding you so protectively and securely against him without any ounce of hesitation present.

One of his hands reaches to caress the back of your head tenderly as you remained momentarily wordless, still processing whatever just happened previously while he gradually stands and brings you along with him to get out from the building safely, albeit still attentively so.

"You're safe with me." You merely nodded upon hearing his spoken words, simply following wherever he's leading you to.

Because you trust him, and James wouldn't hesitate to ensure your safety even if it meant it involves him in a way.