˚✧ ﾟ. I like writing. ₊˚✧ ﾟ.

After your shift ended, you took the bus home. On the ride, a message lit up your phone.

Jack-‘What’s the dress code?’

You smiled softly at the messages and quickly replied.

You-‘Formal. Guessing you haven’t been asked out on a date in years, huh, Abbot?’

You watched as the three dots appeared, then disappeared.

Jack-‘Very funny. Usually, people accept my first decline. 5 attempts, L/N? Desperate?’

You bit your lip, holding back a smile.

You-‘Yes ;)’

That was the last message that was sent.

When you woke up that afternoon, you made coffee strong enough to shock your system back to life and sent Jack the invitation. By the time night shift rolled around, the entire ER somehow knew he was going to accompany you to the wedding courtesy of a coworker who swore she “Wasn’t gossiping,” just sharing. Of course, you and Jack immediately shut it down. Told everyone it was platonic. You both repeated it so often to your coworkers that it was starting to sound rehearsed. Still, it was impossible not to feel everyone's stares whenever you stood too close to Jack.

When the wedding day finally came, you told yourself you weren’t doing anything out of the ordinary. That you would’ve taken an everything shower for any other guy. You would’ve shaved, exfoliated, deep-conditioned, and moisturized every inch of your body. You totally would’ve gotten your nails done even if you worked at a place where you’re constantly wearing gloves. And you definitely would spend two hours perfecting your hair and makeup. It had nothing to do with the fact that your date would be Jack Abbot. You hadn’t even slipped into your dress yet when your phone buzzed with a text letting you know he was parked outside your apartment building. You couldn’t help but feel nervous, you pushed it down when you sent him the entry code and told him the door was unlocked, then you sat back down at your vanity, spraying some perfume along your neck and wrists. He’s been to your place before when you’ve had people over. A few seconds later, you heard the soft click of your front door opening and closing. Followed by the steady sound of his footsteps moving down the hall and towards your room.

“I’m in here!” you called out, slipping one earring in as you heard his footsteps get closer, then the door finally opened. You were too focused to look up.

“You really shouldn’t keep your door unlocked,” Jack said casually, leaning against the doorway with his arms crossed. He took in the sight of you getting ready. You were still in an oversized t-shirt and soft cotton shorts, bare legs crossed at the knee as you put in the final earring.

“I know, I just forget–” you turn your head to finally look at him, and you instantly forget how to speak.

He was wearing a black suit. The jacket fit him perfectly. The white button-down underneath stretched slightly across his chest with his arms folded like that, in a way that made your imagination wander about wanting him to rip it off. Your eyes trailed lower before you could stop them. His tailored pants, polished black shoes, and the way he just stood there so effortlessly put together. He looked really fucking good. You felt heat creep up your neck and flood your cheeks. You looked away, pretending to reorganize some makeup on your vanity.

“I’ll make sure to keep it locked,” was all you could manage to say. Then realized what you were wearing and stood up. “Now get out, I have to change!” you snapped, pointing at the hallway. He didn’t move.

“You’re telling me that’s not what you’re wearing?” he asked, looking up and down in an exaggerated way. “I thought we matched perfectly.”

You rolled your eyes, pushing at his arm until he stepped back. “Go wait in the living room.” He let himself be steered out, still smirking softly as you shut the door. You pressed your back against it and exhaled the first real breath you’d taken since he walked in looking like that. You moved to your closet and pulled out the dress. A black A-line spaghetti strap dress, simple but elegant, with heels, was perfectly long. You slipped it on, adjusting the straps before stepping in front of the mirror.

For a second, you just stared.

You looked beautiful. Everything looked the way you wanted it to. A small, confident smile curved your lips. You turned and grabbed your purse, then headed out of your bedroom, heels clicking softly against the floor.

Jack was sitting on the couch, one hand lazily petting your cat, who had made herself very comfortable beside him. When he looked up and saw you, his hand stilled. His eyes met yours and stayed there.

You couldn’t quite read the expression on his face. It wasn’t his usual playful one. It was something a lot softer, slower. Like he was taking his time.

You smiled softly. “Is she trying to steal my date?” you asked, stepping closer.

Jack glanced down at your cat, thumb brushing over her ears one last time. “She doesn’t need to try.”

You scoffed softly, but you felt butterflies in your stomach. He stood, adjusting his jacket, and for a second, it was just the two of you, standing close enough to feel the shift in the air.

The walk to his car was quiet. Once you got inside, the silence followed, and it wasn’t awkward or uncomfortable. It just felt...intimate. Different. Like something had changed that neither of you was ready to address.

The wedding venue was thirty minutes away. The radio played soft music through the speaker, background noise to the thoughts running through your head.

You told yourself not to stare. You failed each time. You kept sneaking glances at him when he wasn't looking, or at least that's what you thought. But the way his hand flexed on the steering wheel. The clean line of his jaw. The way his suit fits him.

Who the fuck looks that good just to attend a wedding as a “platonic” date?

You really needed to stop staring.

“You listen to the radio?” you asked suddenly, mostly to clear your head. To focus on something else besides the way his sleeve pulled tight around his forearm as he drove.

He kept one hand steady on the wheel, the other resting casually on the center console. “No,” he said simply, then he popped open the center console.

Inside were stacks of CDs. Your eyes widened immediately. “Oh my gosh! You have CD’s in your car?” The excitement in your voice was impossible to hide as you grabbed the one sitting on top, flipping it over to read the track list.

He glanced away from the road for half a second to look at you. He smiled softly, watching your eyes brighten.

“You say that like it’s a bad thing.”

“No! It’s not!” You rushed out. “It’s cute!” You froze. Cute? You cleared your throat quickly. “I mean..you know, not everyone still has CDs in their car. People just use streaming platforms.” You picked up another one to distract yourself.

“You have so many...” you murmured, genuinely impressed. A lot of them were classics. Some older bands you recognized from your parents.

“You can put one in,” he said, pressing the eject button. A disc slid out smoothly. You took it carefully, and he handed you the case without looking, trusting you to handle it. You put it in the case and closed it.

You shuffled through the small collection before pulling out The Beatles CD.

“Of course,” you muttered under your breath with a small smile. You inserted it, and a moment later, the first track began to play through the speakers.

Jack adjusted the volume, and this time, when you glanced at him, he glanced back at you.

By the time you and Jack arrived, the reception was already in full swing. The ballroom buzzed with conversation and people dancing. Jack stayed close behind you as you made your rounds, greeting old classmates and friends you hadn’t seen in ages. He was quiet but attentive, offering polite nods and firm handshakes whenever you introduced him, which he seemed to enjoy.

You had just sat down when a high-pitched gasp cut through the crowd.

“Oh, goodness, I haven’t seen you in ages!”

Becca appeared out of the crowd, already glowing from happiness and a few glasses of champagne. You barely stood up when she wrapped her arms around you in a tight embrace. When she pulled back, her smile was wide and her cheeks flushed from alcohol.

“And you brought a date!” she yelled, turning her attention to Jack, who immediately extended his hand. Becca accepted the handshake dramatically.

“Yeah–Becca, this is Jack. Jack, this is Becca. We were sorority sisters,” you explained.

“Jack! I’m so glad you could make it! Thank you for taking Y/N out! She was so quiet in college! Always had her head in a book–” Becca rambled, words tumbling.

“She hasn’t really changed much,” Jack said with light tease. “Congratulations on the wedding,” he said more sincerely.

Becca's eyes brighten remembering a memory. “Oh my gosh, I have to tell you about the time Y/N–”

Your eyes widen in pure panic.

Luckily, her husband swooped in at the right time. Apologizing with an easy smile as he gently guided her away.

You exhaled.

“I can see why you’re her friend,” Jack said softly. You both sat back down, and you picked up your champagne glass, taking a sip.

“She’s always been super sweet. I’m really happy for her.”

“So..what was she going to tell me?” Jack asked, trying to hide a smile.

You set the glass down and cleared your throat. “Nothing.” You smiled innocently.

“It can’t be that bad,” he held your gaze. “Please,” his voice calm, so soft, it did something to you.

You looked away first, sighing because it was working on you. “It was just a stupid thing I did in college,” you admitted quietly. You met his gaze again, and his expression made it clear he expected more.

Before he could ask for more information, you stood up and held your hand out toward him. “Would you like to dance?” you asked.

Part of you hoped it would make him drop the subject. Another part of you really, really hoped he’d say yes. He didn’t hesitate. He took your outstretched hand and stood with you, fingers warm and steady around yours.

When you both made it to the dance floor, a slow song drifted through the room. He placed his hand carefully at your waist respectfully. Yours rested on his shoulder. Your other hands stayed linked between you. Your heart was pounding so hard you were convinced he could feel it. You focused on the rhythm of the music and the slow sway of your bodies. On anything other than how close he was. But it was hard to ignore the way he was looking down at you, like he hadn’t forgotten the story your friend was about to tell him. Like he wanted to learn all of you.

When the song ended, neither of you moved. Your eyes never left him. The noise of the room faded into something distant and dull. His hazel green eyes held yours in a way that felt steady and intense all at once, like he was certain of something.

You were the first to look away, clearing your throat as another slow song began. Neither of you stepped off the floor. Your bodies found the rhythm naturally. Swaying closer this time.

You met his gaze again, this time with a small, teasing smile. “I know I haven’t said this yet, but you look really nice. Who knew Dr. Abbot could clean up well?”

He smirked faintly at that, the corner of his mouth lifting.

“You look beautiful, Y/N.” His tone wasn’t teasing. It wasn’t playful. It was certain.

The truth in his eyes made your chest tighten. Heat rushed to your face, but you didn’t look away this time. Your heart was pounding so hard. Your thoughts blurred together. The music. The lights. The warmth of his body is so close to yours. And the way he was looking down at you like this wasn’t platonic. None of this was platonic. Before you could overthink it, before you could stop yourself.

You kissed him.

It wasn’t planned, or perfect, or cinematic. It was impulsive, honest, and years of feelings you pushed down were pushing back up.

And he kissed you back.

When you both pulled away to breathe, something shifted. Something that had been sitting between you for weeks, months, years, finally burned through the surface.

Then reality hit.

“I’m sorry,” you whispered, panic creeping in. You stepped back, pulling out of his hold before you could see his expression. You turned and walked off the dance floor, weaving through the guest excusing yourself until you found a quiet, empty hallway away from the music and away from him.

Of course, he followed; you knew he would. You turned around before he could say your name, and there he was, standing a few feet away, jaw tight, eyes locked on you.

“I’m so sorry–I–I couldn’t control myself–” The words mixed together, "You couldn’t look at him anymore. Your breath becomes uneven. “Shouldn’t have–”

“Y/N!” his voice was calm, trying to ground you.

You shook your head quickly. “Don’t. Please don’t.” You didn’t want to hear it. Didn’t want to hear rejection come out of his voice.

“Listen to me, Y/N.” His tone was firmer now. But you weren’t listening. You were too focused on your thoughts. He stepped forward and gently took hold of your shoulders, stilling you. The contact made you look up at him. He was close again. Too close for both of you to pretend this was nothing. There was something in his expression now that you could see clearly; it was frustration, but not the rejection kind. It was want. He opened his mouth like he was going to speak, but whatever he planned to say seemed to disappear the more he looked at you. The way you looked in your dress, the way your eyes looked up at him, the way you were bracing yourself for him to push you away.

So instead, he kissed you.

This time it wasn’t soft. I wasn't hesitant. It was hungry. Starving for the one thing he tried keeping away. His hands moved from your shoulders to cradle your face, fingers warm against your skin. He stepped forward, and your body knew to move back. You followed his steps until your spine met the wall behind you.

Your hands fisted into the fabric of his jacket as your lips moved with his, matching the urgency. At that moment, you knew for sure there was nothing unsure about this, nothing accidental. This wasn’t a mistake. It was everything.

When you finally broke apart, both of you were breathless. Foreheads nearly touching, and your hands still gripping his white buttoned shirt, you were surely wrinkling.

“Let’s get out of here,” he whispered.

There was no confusion about what that meant. The tension between you wasn’t stubble anymore; it was alive, pulsing.

“Okay,” you answered, still trying to steady your breathing. Your lips felt swollen, sensitive. He laced his fingers through yours and didn’t let go.

Walking out of the venue felt surreal. You were hyperaware of everything. The cool night air against your skin, the distant sound of the music, and the solid warmth of his hand wrapped tightly around yours. This was real. And he wanted this…he wanted you.

In his car, he kept his hand connected with yours, resting over the center console. His thumb traced slow circles against your skin, almost like a promise, while he drove to his apartment–which was closer than yours, quicker. Neither of you said much.

The second the door to his apartment shut behind you, your mouths were on each other again. This kiss was deeper. Hungrier, with weeks of restraint.

He broke the kiss, pulling away, just long enough to shrug off his jacket, tossing it somewhere careless without looking. You watched his every movement in awe, the way his shoulders shifted under the white shirt, the controlled impatience when he reached for you again.

He lifted you up without warning, one steady arm behind your back and the other under your knees. You let out a soft gasp as you wrapped your arms around his neck, as he carried you down the hallway.

“You’re so fucking beautiful,” he said, voice low and rough in a way you’ve never heard before. He nudged his bedroom door open with his foot and lay you gently on the bed. He leaned over you immediately, capturing your lips again. One hand braced beside your head while the other slid down, his fingers tracing along your thigh before spreading your legs just enough to step between them. His kisses trailed from your mouth to your jaw, then slowly down the curve of your neck. You gasped as he sucked the sensitive part of your skin, your hands tangling in his hair without thinking. He pulled back again, and you held a frustrated whine. He looked at you... Really looked at you. He watched the way your chest was rising and falling, your dress slightly rumpled, your lips parted, and the want in your eyes mirrored back at him.

“Can I–” he started, voice barely a whisper, grounding himself before he crossed another line.

“Yes, anything,” you breathed, nodding impatiently, cutting him off because the anticipation was driving you insane.

He shifted, lower, kneeling at the edge of the bed, his hands moved to your ankles, fingers brushing your skin gently as he slipped your heels off one at a time, setting them carefully on the floor. You hear him taking off his shoes. You felt his knees dip into the bed. You took a deep breath as you felt his hands back onto your legs. You closed your eyes, taking in the feeling that sent shivers down your spine. He started pressing soft kisses in the inner of your thighs, your back arched off the bed. One of his hands rubbed over your panties, feeling how wet you were for him already.

“So fucking wet already,” he murmurs, voice low and soft. Your legs trembled at his words and the way his hand felt touching you. You were fighting the urge to buck your hips against his hand. Jack watches you hold back. He licks his lips and bunches your dress to your waist. He dips his head, then starts pressing wet kisses on the waistband of your panties. A whimper escapes your lips.

“Fuck–please, Jack.” Jack stops kissing you and raises his head to look up at you. The soft, urgent plea made his hard cock twitch.

“Please, Jack..” You beg softly.

He hooks his fingers in your panties and pulls them down immediately, his eyes glued onto your dripping pussy ready to be tasted. He kisses your inner thighs once more, then his head drops as he finally tastes you, his tongue licking a line up your pussy. He lets out a groan at how sweet you tasted.

A moan escaped your lips as his tongue flicked over your clit. You couldn’t control yourself anymore, your hips buckled into his face, his hands held your thighs to stop you so he could eat you like he hadn't had food in weeks.

“J-Jack..feels–mm–so good–” Your fingers tug on his hair as he sucked harder on your clit. His tongue worked sloppily against your wet pussy, lapping over your clit and sucking. Your legs began to shake, your thighs fighting to press against his head.

“J-Jack–” You squeal, your moans growing louder and louder as his mouth works perfectly on your pussy. You didn’t want to come yet–not–

“Fuck–” Jack groans as you came on his tongue. Your back was arched off the bed, your thighs pressed against his head.

“I–” you couldn’t finish your sentence as you were trying to catch your breath. He licked your sensitive pussy until it was clean. When he lifted his head, he looked down at you, his lips swollen. He moved above you with his arms on each side of your head, and he kissed you, making you taste yourself against his lips.

Jack knew he wanted to take his time with you. Your hands moved to his chest, feeling him under the shirt. You started unbuttoning his shirt, and he pulled away, taking it off completely, tossing it next to the bed on the ground. Your eyes drift to his bare chest, you could see some scars from when he was in the military, and his pecks were so soft. You touched his chest softly. He was warm and soft.

“Can I?” he asked, making your eyes break away from his chest to look up at him. You nod your head, he carefully moves to unzip your dress, you help him tug into down, leaving you in your laced bra. Jack lets out a soft breath at the sight of you. You take off your bra, and he watches your every movement.

Your hands move to his belt, unbuckling it. His heart pounds faster as you finally get to the button of his pants, then the zipper, pushing them down. He hisses softly. He tugs the rest of the pants off and kicks them aside. You stared at his bulge through his cotton boxers. You felt your mouth water.

“You can take them off, darling.” He whispered, like he knew you needed his cock in your mouth. You hook your thumb into the waistband of his boxers, and he helps you again, leaving them in the pile of clothes on the floor. Your breath catches as he straightens his body, fully bare. You stare in awe. He was fully bare with his eyes trailing all over his body to his head to his legs. You took in the sight of his prosthetic leg, a reminder that a strong man like Jack wanted you. Your attention went back to his aching cock.

“Jesus, Jack,” you whisper, staring at his cock, thick and heavy. You didn’t know how you were going to take him all. You sat up.

“Can I make you feel good?” You asked so innocently, so pure. Jack helped you switch positions so he was under you. You move down between his thighs. You grab his cock with one hand. Jack had his elbows propped on the bed so he could watch you. You leaned down and licked the tip of his pink-tipped cock. He curses under his breath, closing his eyes. You continue licking off the precum, which only makes you want to taste him more. You sucked the tip and felt him buck his hips; his hand grabbed your hair to help you. You then finally took him in your mouth. Your hand moved to the rest of his cock, which you couldn’t fit in your mouth.

“You feel so good–” he breathes, the sound low and guttural. You set a rhythm, bobbing your head as your hand strokes the rest of him. His moans grow louder, and his hips buck in you. You flatten your tongue along the underside of his cock, knowing he is close. You suck harder, challenging yourself to take more of him in. “Pretty–m’mouth.”  

Jack groans, loud and rough, as he comes, his hips bucking fully. His fist, which was holding your hair, turned white from how hard he was clenching it. You feel his warm cum fill your mouth, his cock twitching. You swallowed every ounce of him, then eased off him. Wiping your mouth with the back of your hand. Jack watches you in awe as he sits up fully, pulling you into his lap. Your mouth meets each other again. He moves you so that you’re lying on the bed again.

“Are you sure about this?”

“Positive.”

He nods his head before positioning himself at your entrance. The head of his cock touches your entrance. Your hands move to his shoulders, where your nails dig into his skin. He pushes his tip slowly into you. The head of his cock stretched your walls. Jack’s cock was thick in a way that felt overwhelming with pleasure. He sinks in another inch inside of you, he groans.

“You’re doing so well,” he said softly, watching the way you were struggling to take him. He pushes himself fully into you, making you gasp for air. You felt so deliciously full.

“Fuck,” he breathes, like he couldn’t catch his breath.

You both stayed there for a moment, just taking in how good either of you felt. Your bodies are locked together. Jack's forehead touches yours. You look into each other's eyes, and you wish you could stay like this forever. You didn’t even notice when his thumb touched your cheek softly. He gives you one soft kiss on your lips before he speaks.

“I’m going to move, okay?” he says, voice so soft it makes your stomach fill with butterflies.

“Okay.” You managed to say a little breathlessly.

He started with a thrust; it was a slow, deep thrust. That's when you fully process how he filled you up completely. You catch your breath, adjusting to him.

“You feel so good, Y/N.” His gaze remains on you, locked into your expression. You looked so beautiful under him. He leans down to kiss you, your mouths move in a rhythm only either of you knew. He decided to move again, this time to a slow, steady rhythm. You moan into the kiss, feeling him everywhere.

His kisses start to become messy and needy, while his pace quickens. He moves faster and harder now. Your nails dig deeper into his shoulders, while your vision blurs with pleasure.

“You look so pretty like this,” he whispers, breaking the kiss to control his breathing. You moan louder as the coil in your belly gets tighter, your walls squeezing around him. He curses under his breath, burying his face in the crook of your neck. His body is tense, and you feel his cock twitch inside of you.

“Fuck are you–”

“Yes–”

His mouth parts slightly as he comes inside of you, releasing inside of you. The sound of him groaning brought you to your own orgasm, your pussy clenched around his sensitive cock. He whimpers softly. You both cling onto each other, catching your breath. Both of your skin is slick with a layer of sweat, and you swear you could feel his heart pounding. Too high from the orgasm to say anything. He leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to your forehead. It was softer and slower than everything that had happened only moments before. Slower. When he pulled back, he didn’t move far. His face hovered just above yours, his eyes searching your expression like he was trying to read every thought passing through your head. And that’s when it hit you. Looking into his hazel green eyes, warm and steady, you realized how deeply you fell.

Because you could already feel it, the certainty in your chest. This was the start of something big.

“Are you free tomorrow?” he asked after a moment, his voice softer now, almost careful.

“Yes.” You nodded immediately.

His thumb brushed gently along your cheek before he tucked a loose strand of hair behind your ear, his touch lingering for a second longer than necessary.

“Good,” he said, the corner of his mouth lifting slightly. “That means I can take you out on a proper date…if you’re ready for that.”

Your heart skipped a beat, and a smile spread on your face.

“I would love that.”

For a moment, neither of you spoke. You were both just lying there, looking at each other like something had shifted between you, something that had probably been building for years. Then Jack exhaled quietly and leaned back on one elbow.

“I’m really not looking forward to the paperwork we’re going to have to fill out,” he muttered.

A laugh escaped you before you could stop it, bright and genuine, soon after Jack joined.

After a few seconds longer, you pushed yourself up slowly. You didn’t want to think about the number of tries it took. Your black sparkly dress had ridden up from the fall. You leaned against the counter and adjusted the dress, all clumsy. Then you looked in the mirror. It was blurry, so you tried adjusting your eyes. That's when you saw a smear of blood on your forehead. You touched it and hissed.

“Cool. Great. Awesome.” You said quietly with clear disappointment in your voice.

You leaned down and fumbled for your phone on the floor. You called your friend.

“Don’t come overrrrr!” You said the second she picked up.

“What? No bailing on us. Jesus, Y/N, how much did you drink?” Even through the alcohol, you can hear her concern.

You sighed softly. “I fell. M’bleeding.”

You could hear the music being turned down in the car. “Is it bad? Do you need to go to the hospital?”

You looked at yourself again in the mirror. Glitter eyeshadow. Perfect lip liner. An amazing blowout that took hours. And blood ruins the aesthetic of it all.

“No,” You muttered miserably, a small pout on your lips. “What I need to do is not go out. This is so lame.” You hung up before she could argue.

You continued to stare at yourself. You should probably get it checked out; that's the smart thing to do: call an Uber to the hospital. But you were drunk and looked ridiculously slutty.

No, instead, what you could do is ask your neighbor that lived across the hall for help.

Jack Abbot.

You didn’t know much about him; you knew the basics, he worked the night shift as an ER Doctor was quiet, kept to himself,  ordered takeout after long shifts, and held the door for you. And, unfortunately..

“Really fucking hot.” You muttered to yourself.

You kicked off your heels and wobbled out of the bathroom. You somehow managed to make it to your front door. You took a deep breath while opening the door. Once you stepped out into the hallway, you felt the cold, stale air hit you immediately. You closed the door, leaning on it for support because you were starting to feel the room spin again.

You stared at his door, which was right across from your door. You took another deep breath and tried your best to walk as steadily as you could to his door, and because you were about to talk to your extremely hot neighbor.

It only took one steady knock. The door opened immediately.

Jack stood there in a basic black shirt that was tight around his arms and some grey sweats. His hair was slightly messy and perfect all at once. He took one look at you.

A dress that barely covered your ass. Mascara slightly smudged. Lips perfectly glossed. His eyes were fixed on your injured forehead. His expression sharpened.

“What happened?” He asked, his voice clinical and direct. You didn’t even notice that you hadn't spoken yet.

“You answered,” You said finally, even you could hear the whine in your voice as you continued. “I’ve had the worst day.” You watched as his jaw flexed faintly.

“Come in,” he said, stepping aside.

You stepped inside his apartment. It smelt faintly of him. The only lights that were on were from the few lamps he had. You didn’t even notice that you were swaying until you saw he was close enough to catch you if you lost your balance. He guided you to his couch, which you sank into.

You watched him kneel in front of you, almost further inspecting you.

“Tell me how you got hurt. “ His voice was so soft, like he was trying to fuck with your head.

“I pregamed way too hard–like super hard-woah, no that sounds weird-” You shut your eyes and started rambling before you could stop.

“Y/N.” He said evenly, voice lower now. “Stay with me. How did this happen?”

You opened your eyes and calmed down to explain better. You looked down at him, but that was a mistake. Because the way he looked from this angle was so fucking unfair. He looked so focused while his eyes scanned your face like you were something delicate. God, you wished you weren’t drunk. All you could think about was how you wanted this man to pin you up against his bed and fuck your brains out–

“I fell and hit my head on the sink counter.” You explained, your voice softer and controlled. You went to touch your forehead again. His hand caught your wrist instantly. His touch is firm and warm. Fuck.

“Don’t,” He commanded softly. “I’m going to get a medkit. Just stay here.”

You nodded your head like an obedient child and watched him disappear down the hallway. You took this time to look around his place; he surprisingly had some decor and a nice bookshelf with large, heavy medical textbooks.

When he came back with the medkit, you swore he sat closer than he should have, like he wanted to.

“Am I going to die?” You whined dramatically. That was definitely the alcohol speaking for you. You saw his mouth twitch upward.

“No. But you're going to sit still.” He teased back. It was your turn to smile. He put on some gloves. As you watched him, you could tell he’s done that millions of times.

“Careful with those hands, Doc.” You teased softly, trying to calm yourself as he was about to touch you.

“Yeah?” he replied dryly, opening up some alcohol wipes. “They’re the only reason you’re not walking into a hospital looking like this.”

You frowned softly. “M’not going to the hospital.” He started softly cleaning the blood that was already drying up. He wasn't cleaning the injury yet.

“You might.” He said calmly. “Depends.”

That worries you in an instant. You felt him start touching gently around the swelling bump.

“Does that hurt?” he whispers.

“A little.”

“How about there?”

“Ouch!”

“There?”

“...no.”

“I’m not going to the hospital..I’m completely wasted.” You shook your head softly as he stopped examining your forehead.

“You’d be surprised how often we get drunk patients.” He says, smiling softly to himself.

“Not funny, I was supposed to have a girls' night,” you murmured, looking down at your dress. “I look so cute.”

“I can tell.” He says, picking up a cotton ball and pouring alcohol onto it.

Your eyes lit up. “It’s a very cute dress.”

“It is very cute.” He finally dabbed the cotton ball on the small cut. You winced softly. “It’s also a short dress.”

“You noticed?” You smiled lazily.

He cleaned the small cut and then added some ointment to it. His eyes flickered up to yours. “Hard not to.” He applied a small bandage. You felt your face heat up at his comment.

“Doesn’t look bad. Bleeding has already stopped. All you need to do is keep it iced. The swelling should go down.” He stood up, disposed of the trash, and returned with a glass of water and an ice pack.

“Here.” His voice was gentle. You took the water first, then the ice pack.

“Thank you,” you said. Slightly sobering up. “You didn’t have to do this.” You grabbed the water and the icepack. You held the icepack to your forehead.

He sat back down, but not too close, giving you the space you need. “It’s my job. Plus, when your favorite neighbor comes bleeding knocking on your door.” He was teasing you again. You laughed softly, and he studied you a moment longer than necessary.

“Favorite?” Your brows lifted.

“Yeah, you always bake. You don’t slam doors. You’re like the perfect neighbor.” He said it so casually. You tilted your head and smiled.

“Well, it’s hard not to when your neighbor is a hot doctor.” You felt your heart fall to your ass. Your eyes widen with realization. You couldn’t believe you just said that. “I mean–”

“You think I’m hot?” He smirks softly and watches your face heat up. You took a sip of the water, looking away from him and at the bookshelf in the corner of the room. You nod your head.

There is a pause now, not awkward but charged.

You stood up quickly, placing the glass of water on his coffee table. He stood up with you, and he could tell you were freaking out.

“Anyways, thank you for everything, I should go-” You turned around and started walking towards the door, still holding the icepack to your forehead, when he called your name.

“Y/N.”

You turned around and looked up at him slowly.

“Let me take you out on a date.” His voice was clear, and he stood straight.

“You want to go on a date with me?” You asked softly. You didn’t want to think about how ridiculous you looked. You lowered the icepack from your forehead and straightened your posture.

“Yes.” He clarifies, nodding his head. “When you’re sober and hopefully not concussed.” He smiled at his own teasing. “If you’re not seeing anyone.” He adds.

“No!” you said quickly and a little louder than you should’ve. “I would love to go on a date with you.”

He gently held your hand that held the icepack and lifted it back to your forehead. “Keep it there.” He requested. His hand lingers a fraction too long before releasing yours.

“I’ll plan it.” He said in a low voice.

“Okay.” It was all you could manage to say without embarrassing yourself even more.

“And if you start vomiting, blacking out, or feeling worse, you knock on my door. Immediately,” He was using that firm, demanding voice that made your body ache for him. He was looking down at you, his eyes burning into you so intensely you couldn’t speak. You bit the inside of your lip and nodded your head slowly, not breaking eye contact with him.

“Use your words, darling.” He whispered, this time stepping an inch closer to you.

“I’ll knock.” You whispered back.

He studied you for another second, making sure you were stable. Then he reached for the door handle behind you, opening the door.

You felt the stale cool air in the hallway hit you again. “Thank you..again.” You smiled softly, and he leaned on the door frame, smiling back.

“Next, pregame like an adult.”

“Hi–” you started. Then you were shoved hard from behind. A tall man stormed forward, yelling to Lupe about wait times and incompetence. 

“Hey! Don’t you see everyone else is waiting? They’re busy. Sit down and wait your turn instead of causing a scene.” Your teacher's voice came out without noticing. The man looked down at you eyes wide with anger but you stood your ground then, unbelievably, he backed off.

Lupe smirked and then looked up at you smiling. “Thank you, sweetie. Name?”

“Y/N Abbot.” 

You watched as her fingers paused over the keyboard at your last name. She then brushed it off, she's met thousands of people. Could just be a last name. 

“What brings you in?” 

You lifted your left hand that was still wrapped in the bloody towel. “Guillptine cutter. It’s..not cute.”

“Alright, here is a packet you will give to them. I will call your name when ready.” She explained handing you the packet. 

“Thank you.” You smile softly then take the packet with your good hand. You looked around and saw a seat in the corner. You sat down and waited to be called. You thought about what Jack was doing. 

Three hours later, you were a little sleepy and your hand was aching from constant pressure.When your name was finally called, you stood up stretching your legs. A nurse met you at the entrance of the double doors, he swiped his card and led you inside. 

That's when you saw the chaos. Nurses and doctors running around everywhere. You saw white boards set up all over the floor. 

“Dana, are there any rooms available?” The young nurse asked, a blonde woman holding a clipboard looked up. 

“Room 5!” She points in the direction, the nurse nods his head and walks you to the room. 

You were ushered inside.

“Is it always like this?” You asked softly. The nurse starts taking your vitals. 

“No…our uh systems are down.”He said softly then a doctor walked in. 

“Hi,” She took your packet and read through it. “I’m Dr. Santos…Y/N Abbot huh..any chance you’re related to Jack Abbot-” Dr. Santos smirked softly; she couldn’t help but joke around. 

The curtain snapped open again.

“You called,”His eyes met yours immediately. He froze, all color from his face drained.

“Y/N?! What are you doing here-what happened!?” He quickly walked towards you, eyes dropping to the bloody towel.

Dr. Santos looked between the two of you, a grin already forming.

“So..how do you two know each other?” Dr. Santos said with a smirk on her face, enjoying this far too much.

“She’s my wife.” He said softly his focus still on you.

Santos' mouth fell open then she turned and bolted out of the room like she’d just been handed the gossip of the century. The nurse followed her out not long after when he finished with your vitals.

You winced slightly as Jack gently took your hand.

“How did this happen?” He asked as he started to carefully unwrap the towel, it looked like he was mentally preparing himself.

“I was cutting some assignments using the guillotine cutter-” You admitted.”What are you doing here, I thought you were with the swat team-”

“I told you to wait for me when you use that thing,” He muttered, worrying through slight frustration. “Someone got hurt and we brought him here..” You frowned softly and placed your good hand on top of his to calm him.

“Jack.” Your voice is steady and grounding. “ I'm okay, I promise.”

“I know, but seeing you hurt in the ER I can't–I don’t like it.” He said softly, you watched as his shoulders slumped seeing your bloody pointer finger. 

“See not that bad!” You said your tone positive, trying to ease the mood.

“You’re going to need stitches.”

“Good thing I married a talented Doctor.” You said. That finally earned you a faint smile. He looked at you and let out a deep breath. He then kissed your forehead standing up. 

“Stay here, I'm going to get the supplies” He kissed your good hand and you watched him turn to leave.

The moment he stepped out, the curtain flew open again. 

“There she is! Jack Abbot’s young hot wife!” Dr. Santos announced far too loudly. Behind her was Dana and two other doctors. You read their name tags, Rabby Robinavitch and Dennis Whitaker.

You straightened automatically, a little embarrassed. “Hi.”

“Well I'll be damned.” Dana said, smirking. “So you’re Jack's wife.” 

“Right! I didn’t even know he dated.” Trinity whispered to Dana. 

“Nice to meet you Y/N.” Robby, the tall one with the beard said, he gave you a small smile. Jack has told you about him.

 “It’s really nice to meet you all. I’d shake hands, but uhm..” You lifted your injured finger. Your wedding ring glinting under the lights.

“And how did that happen?” Robby asked.

“Oh It was a huge paper cutter, I was prepping worksheets.” You said softly lowering your hand a bit embarrassed. They looked curious so you explained why. “Oh I’m a second grade teacher.”

“Of course he would bag an elementary school teacher.” Trinity said, grinning softly.

The curtain opened again. Jack stepped in and scooted past the audience with a tray of supplies. He took in the scene in one glance.

“Is there a consult I missed, or are you all just interviewing my wife?” Jack said evenly. He set the tray on the small table next to your hospital bed and then sat on the stool.

Immediate silence fell as they had been caught. 

Trinity was the first to leave, dragging Dennis with her. You could hear them whisper but couldn’t make out the words. Dana excused herself shortly after giving you a warm smile. Robby just smiled. 

“We’ll talk later, Jack,” He said softly, crossing his arms. “Nice meeting you Y/N” he walked out of the room leaving you and Jack alone. He was quiet and prepping your finger.

“They were nice.” You said softly. He picked up a needle and your eyes widened.

“This is going to numb your finger..One..Two–..” He poked your finger and you winced. He had all his focus on your finger but you knew something was off.

“Jack.” He doesn’t look up as he strings the thread through the needle. “What’s wrong?” Your voice was soft and warming which only stung Jack’s heart more.

“Nothing,” he said quietly.

“Jack.” You said more firmly, he started stitching your finger, but your eyes were just on him not your finger.

“I just,” He finished one stitch. “I don’t like seeing you here..in these rooms.” He finally admitted.

You took a deep breath. 

“I’m sorry.” You said softly while watching him work. He stitched carefully,methodical, and controlled. His thumb brushed your knuckle like he needed to confirm you were real.

“Don’t be sorry,” He said, finishing the last stitch. “Just be more careful.” He finished the stitch and then added some neosporin and started wrapping it in gauze. 

“I will be..” You said assuring him. He was cleaning up the mess. You placed a hand on his cheek, leaning forward and kissed him. This kiss was soft at first, he melted into it and his shoulders relaxed. 

“And please next time,” he murmured against your lips. “ You tell them you’re my wife and you’ll get the special treatment you deserve. No more waiting for hours.”. 

“How did you-” 

“I asked Lupe,” he said softly. He looked tired already. You could see it in his eyes this was a long shift that had just begun. 

“Okay, I’ll follow your orders,” You kissed him again this time a little more slowly and deeper. His hand slid to your waist all the way to your hips. you pulled away from the kiss then whispered in his ear. “And maybe when you get home..I’ll reward you for taking such good care of me” 

Jack cleared his throat trying to keep his thoughts clean…he was working for fucks sake he had to keep his thoughts clear. His grip tightened slightly on your hips.

“I called you an uber.”

“You don’t have to–”

“I do.”

His forehead rested briefly against yours. 

“I'll take care of your injury when I get home.”He said in a firm but protective way. “You rest and wear that thing you bought on Valentine's Day.” 

“Doctor's orders?”You asked teasingly. 

“Always, Darling.” 

He didn’t pick at it. When his gaze went back to you, he noticed your jaw was tight…as if you were bracing for criticism that hadn’t come. 

“Here,” he said, extending his hand. 

You looked down at his hand. He held a protein bar. You took the protein bar out of politeness.

“Thank you, sir. I'll eat it later–” 

“Now, Dr.L/N.” His tone wasn’t harsh. Just factual. 

He gently took the bar back, opened it carefully without touching the actual protein bar, then handed it back to you. 

“I noticed you haven’t taken a break.” 

You looked at the protein bar, then at him. 

“Once you’re finished eating, you can help me with the patient in room six.” 

Just like that he walked to bay 6. 

You stared at the protein bar before taking a slow soft bite. Something in your brain must've finally processed the hunger because the protein bar was gone in less than 20 seconds. 

You walked into the bay room number six. A young boy sat on the bed, pale and miserable, his mother hovering beside him. 

“He hasn't stopped vomiting,” His mother said, clearly distressed. 

“What has he eaten in the past 24 hours?” You asked, your voice calm. Reassuring. You typed while she answered, documenting every detail. 

“Okay, Dr.L/N will order imaging,” Jack said smoothly to the mother. “When the results are back, Dr. L/N will update you know right away. For right now we can give him something to help settle his upset stomach.” 

He nodded once and stepped out, leaving you to place the ultrasound order.

Nine hours into your shift, you were running on precision instead of oxygen. 

Instead you caught a medication dosage discrepancy seconds before it reached the IV line. Rerouted a consult that would've delayed a discharge by hours and stayed by a mother while she cried about her fathers death.

You still hadn’t taken a real break.

While you were charting, Jack caught the way your hands trembled slightly. 

“Take a break after you're done,” He said quietly, standing beside you, his voice low.

“I’m fine,” You said softly and continued typing. 

He stepped closer to you. “You look pale.” 

You didn’t say anything regarding his comment. You finished typing before turning to face him. 

He met your gaze fully.

“I’m fine,” you repeated, tone final. “I can handle this.” 

“You think I’d let you handle this many cases if I didn’t think you could?” 

Your shoulders didn’t drop, but he watched as something in your posture shifted. Like he’d caught you carrying something invisible. 

“I just need to stay ahead,” You murmured. 

He sighed softly, his jaw tightening as his eyes shut tightly. Before he could respond, a burse called your name from down the hall.

–

It happened at hour eleven of your shift. 

The chaos seemed to quiet a little. You were catching up on some charts when the words on the screen blurred at the edges. 

You blinked. Refocused. Then the floor tilted. Your hand caught the edge of the desk. You didn’t realize most of your balance came from Jack holding your elbow, he was looking at the Er board when he noticed you stumble softly. His grip was firm on your elbow. You were too scared to speak first. He guided you to the nearest chair before even speaking. 

“Sit.” He demanded, his voice low and serious. You stayed quiet. 

“Can I have some water and a sandwich please.” He instructed a nearby nurse who stared at your drained face.

“You are not a machine, Y/N.” He said quietly. 

“I know.”

“Then act like it.” His voice wasn’t cruel but there was a hint of irritation. Not at you but at the situation. At the fact you were doing this to yourself. The nurse came by with a bottle of water and half a sandwich. 

You took the sandwich and water from his hand, thanking him softly. You took a sip of water then took a bite of sandwich, too embarrassed to look up at him.

“I can’t have one of my doctors passing out mid-shift,” he said, watching you carefully. “I understand you’re new, maybe nervous but–”

“It’s not that,” you interrupted softly. You swallowed. “I just don't want to disappoint anyone..”

Truth was your older brother was an amazing doctor achieving more than you could ever. Your family didn’t even care that you got the job at The Pitt. You felt like a failure being constantly compared to him. You took a deep breath then finally you let your body relax.

Jack's eyes softened softly when he noticed there was something you were keeping to yourself.  “You’re off the board for twenty minutes, finish eating. I want the water bottle to be empty when I come to check on you.” he said.

“Yes, Dr. Abbot.” You nod your head softly. He then took one final look at you and walked away. 

When he returned he noticed the color return in your face. During the last half hour of the shift, you stood beside him during rounds. You were steady finally. He gave you a small nod of approval.

—

The shift ends like it always does. At your locker softly gathering your things, you pulled your hoodie over your head when you heard his voice again.

“Do you have somewhere to be?” You turn around there Jack Abbot stood there in his coat. 

“No. Just going to rot in bed,” You joked softly. A faint smile touched his lips.

“Would you like to get a cup of coffee or tea?” He asked softly. You frowned. 

“Am I in trouble?” 

“No.”

—

The diner is a block from the hospital. You guessed a lot of employees come here because you saw a few in some booths. The host even greeted Jack with a bright smile. She guides you both to a booth by the window. You both ask for coffee which comes out immediately. You wrap your hands around the mug seeking warmth. Jack lets the silence settle. 

“You worried the floor today,” he finally spoke, picking up his mug and taking a sip.

“They found out?” You asked, embarrassed you avoided his eyes looking at the rim of your mug. 

“No.” A pause. “I guess you scared me,” he admitted. That got your attention. 

“You shouldn’t run yourself into the ground trying to prove something.” He continues. 

You swallow, your voice unsure and soft. “I wasn’t trying to–” 

“You were.” His voice isn’t sharp but it leaves no room for argument. You watch him lean back slightly, his eyes steady on yours. “You remind me of myself when I was your age,” he added.

“I do?” You asked genuinely curious. You watched him nod his head once. 

“If you keep going the way you did today,” His voice low and steady, “You will burn out. And when you burn out, it won’t be quiet like today. It’ll be catastrophic.” 

You look away from his gaze taking in his words. 

“This job will take everything if you let it,” he continued watching your expression. “It won't stop until there is nothing left. You have to decide when it does stop.” 

You looked at the table for a moment too long. His gaze never leaves you. “I just thought if I worked hard enough…no one would ever question whether I belong.” 

“Who the hell is questioning that?” His expression shifted, something almost protective flashing through.

You didn’t want to say who so you just shrugged. 

“Fuck that,” he said firmly. “You belong, I promise you belong.” Silence stretches again. You let his words fully consume you..for the first time in a long time, you believed in someone other than your own doubt. 

“I’m sorry,” You finally say, you meet his eyes again.

“For what?”

“For making you worry.” You gave him a small smile. “I’ll take better care of myself. Thank you Jack.” Your voice was the most gentle and secure he's ever heard before. He looks at the mug in his hands and nods once. 

“You’ll learn,” He responds, still looking at the mug. “We all are. Some of us are just further along in the journey.”

Before you could respond the waitress came back and placed a single slice of apple pie on the table. You looked at it and then Jack. 

“I didn’t order this,” You say looking at him but he doesn’t look surprised.

“I did.” 

You stare at him. 

“You need sugar.” He said simply. He nudged the plate closer to you. You didn’t argue picking up one of the forks then picked at the corner of the pie. You took the bite then slid the plate towards him. 

“No one told me Jack Abbot buys sweet treats after shifts.” You teased softly. He questions why you slide the plate over to him. 

“The pie was for you.” He simply says. 

“There are two forks doctors.” You weren’t wrong, there were two forks. A faint smile broke across his face as he picked up the second fork and took a bite from the opposite side.

You watched as he took the bite and he closed his eyes for a second. You quietly laugh, it looked like he needed that more than you. 

You were finally able to sit up after a few tries. Around the room, people were laughing and dancing–having the time of their lives. But all you could think about was how much you wanted to pet the kittens in the courtyard.

With your last bit of strength, you pushed yourself up from the couch. You wove through the crowd…. well swayed. You put most of your weight leaning on the wall as you made your way out of the Slytherin common room.

It was cold, and the black dress that Pansy let you borrow wasn’t helping you get warmed up.  Your hand stayed on the wall as you stumbled towards the courtyard; it was the only thing that managed to get you this far.

You mumbled a stupid song that was stuck in your head. When you finally made it to the courtyard, you felt the moonlight hit your face. You smiled then giggled. “Come here, babies.” You said, when you sank on the nearest bench and looked at the ground, waiting for the kittens to appear. You waited for a few minutes.

You fell asleep.

“What do we do with her?” Mattheo questioned the rest of the group as they all looked down on you sitting on the bench, your whole upper body was hunched, you seemed to have fallen asleep. Draco, Blaise, Theodore, and Mattheo were crowding around you, watching you sleep.

“She’s completely wasted.” Draco sighed, running a hand over his face. They were supposed to just come out here to smoke away from the party. Not deal with Y/N drunk off her mind.

“Well, we can’t leave her out here…she’ll freeze to death,” Blaise said softly.

Mattheo looked at him, then rolled his eyes. “Oh, really?” He said sarcastically, earning a chuckle from Theodore.

Draco then took a step closer and tapped your shoulder. “Hey…Y/N, you alright?” Draco asked you. You groaned and pulled away from his touch.

“The kittens I want to pet them….” You slurred your words softly.

“There we go,” Mattheo muttered. “She lives.” You finally looked up at them, taking the time to look at all four of the boys. You reacted slowly, watching Draco kneel in front of you. It took you a full five seconds to focus on his face.

“How much did you drink?” Draco asked, his voice a little softer.

You raised your hand in the air in front of his face. “Mm..like maybe 6..” You said lazily, putting up four fingers.

Mattheo started laughing softly. “That’s four fingers L/N, not 6,” He said, still laughing. You looked up at him and shrugged, then lowered your hand.

“Why are you outside?” Theodore asked, and he took his jacket off. He didn’t wait for her to reply; he stepped forward and set the jacket around her shoulders.

You blinked up at him, not registering that you were wearing his jacket. “....Kittens,” You mumbled. All four of them paused.

“Cats,” Theodore repeated.

“Kittens!” You slightly raised your voice to correct him. “They live out here. I wanted to pet them.” You pouted and sighed exaggeratedly. “I think they’re sleeping!” You whined.

“Yeah, because they wouldn’t be ignoring you for no reason,” Mattheo said sarcastically, biting back a grin.​

“I’m very lovable!” You frowned at him, clearly offended.

Blaise smirked. “We’re sure you are.”

Draco finally stood up. He looked at Mattheo to take your left side, and he moved to your right.

Mattheo grabbed your arm softly but firmly. “Alright, princess. Field trip’s over. The kittens are sleeping, and you need to, too.”

“Don’t call me that.” You narrowed your eyes at him, feeling Draco grab your other arm.

“Enough! It’s freezing out here.” Blaise commented, shivering. “Can you stand?”

You looked at Blaise and shrugged. “I dunno..”​

Draco sighed. “Brilliant.”

Mattheo and Draco counted down from 3 and brought you to your feet. You swayed instantly. All four boys reacted at once. Draco’s free hand went to your waist. Theodore grabbed your elbow. Blaise steadied your shoulder. Mattheo scooted closer to you.

“I’m fine! Merlin, who knew you were all so soft! Look at me, I'm standing tall!” You insisted, even though you were leaning into Draco now.

“ You’re horizontal at best,” Draco muttered, trying to support your weight. You blinked up at him and rolled your eyes and scoffed.

“Right.” Was all Draco could say as he tried to straighten you back up. “We’re going to start moving.” He glanced at the others, then back down at you. You took one step, then swayed to the left. Mattheo helped you regain your balance somewhat.

“Why is this impossible…Hogwarts is too big. How are students supposed to do this?” You complained as the group moved to the common room. You trailed your fingertips along the wall as you moved with them to the common room. They adjusted you again, and Draco's arm stayed secure on your waist now. Theodore kept close enough that your shoulders touched. Blaise just remained behind, hands ready to catch you if you end up falling backwards, and Mattheo walked in front in case a professor was to stop them.

The Slytherin common room was loud, like you remembered. The boys were able to bring you to the nearest couch. You fell into it and sighed softly.

“Pansy is going to be so mad.” You whispered.

“I think that should be the least of your concerns, love, you’re going to have a gnarly headache when you wake up,” Mattheo said quietly with faint amusement. Draco left and went to look for Pansy.

He scanned the party once and found her. Pansy was near the drinks table, arms crossed, clearly mid-lecture at someone who looked mildly terrified. Pansy must have felt someone looking at her because she turned to Draco's direction.

“Where is she?” she demanded before Draco could speak. They both started walking to the couch, where you were slumped.

“Is she crying?” Pansy asked.

“No.”

“Sick?”

“No.”

“Embarrassing herself?”

Draco hesitated for a second, smiling to himself.

“....No.”

“I told her to stay put.” Pansy sighed softly and pushed past a couple stumbling to her side.

“She didn’t.”

Draco returned with Pansy immediately. She was pissed, but mostly relieved you were alright. She sat on the couch and moved some hair out of your face. You were curled to your side. Pansy looked at the four boys surrounding you like guard dogs. “So. Let me get this straight. She wandered out. Completely wasted..and instead of leaving her–”

“ We’re not animals, Pansy…we wouldn’t leave her,” Theodore said, leaning against the couch, arms crossed.

Pansy tilted her head and studied Theodore, then Draco, then Mattheo, then Blaise. “You walked her back?”

“Yes,” Blaise answered calmly.

“All the way?” Pansy asked. Draco stepped forward and rolled his eyes.

“Can you just take her to the girls' dormitory? I don't feel like being integrated." Draco snapped.

Pansy pressed her lips together, trying to fight back a smile. “Oh, this is rich.” She started laughing. You were confused, wondering why she was laughing. You were certain she would be angry at you. “You’re all soft! Every single one of you!” Pansy said, delighted.

Draco's tone cooled. “Are you taking her upstairs or not?” Pansy nods her head and rolls her eyes. She straightened you to sit up.

“Pansy?” You stirred faintly, your eyes adjusting to the face in front of you.

“It’s me,” Pansy said quietly. “We’re going upstairs.”

You blinked, still trying to focus. “You’re real?"​

You groaned quietly but allowed Pansy to be helped upright. Theodore's jacket fell off your shoulders. Pansy adjusted her grip and pulled you gently toward the staircase.

“Thanks, nerds!” Pansy said, teasing the boys who knew she'd never let this night go.

The boys watched as Pansy slowly walked up to the girls' dormitory. Mattheo was the first one to speak.

“Well…that was–”

Draco moved past Mattheo and made his way to the boys' dormitory. “Shes never drinking again.” The rest followed Draco, also making their way up the staircase.

“And I’m guessing you're going to be certain she doesn’t?” Theodore asked, slinging his arm over Draco’s shoulders.