Salem Sturniolo

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The Sweetest Surrender.

Summery: After an unsuccessful encounter, Honeybee and Spider find common ground in the forest behind their houses.

Warning: None.

Pairing: Honeybee Reader X Spider Chris.

A/N: This is chapter two of this AU. For chapter index and character introductions, please see my masterlist -> Here.

Maddening. A word that perfectly described the relationship between my neighbour and me. Chris was the definition of unreachable. I had tried on multiple occasions to extend my hand in friendship, each encounter more disappointing than the last. Our latest conversation had ended with him insisting that whilst we were neighbours, that part he couldn’t escape, we were far from friends. Chris had commented previously that I was infuriatingly sweet and in contrast with his brooding demeanour, I was simply incapable of being tolerated by him.

Deciding to distance myself from his draining negativity, I had spent my afternoon redecorating my living room. Freshly sewn gingham curtains now framed my kitchen window, looking out onto my blooming flower garden. The scent of honeysuckle and drying paint enveloped my little cottage, immensely lifting my previously depleted spirits. Not even my standoffish prick of a neighbour could burst this bubble. I refused to allow it.

As early evening rolled around, I admired my own handiwork. Delicate floral wallpaper brightened the room and my finally finished patchwork quilt, strategically draped over my couch gave the room a warm inviting ambience that I was hoping to achieve. The finishing touch would be a vase of handpicked Bluebells and Primroses. The beautifully fragrant flowers that grew wildly in the forest behind my home. I pulled a cardigan over my summer dress and located my gardening gloves and wicker basket, before making my way into the dimmed woods.

I happened upon an unexpected patch of Foxgloves which I gathered excitedly, nestling them carefully not to break their stems or crush their delicate petals. The slowly setting sun was working against me as I ventured further into the forest in search of wildflowers. Fully immersed in my own little world, the sound of a branch snapping dragged me bluntly to my senses. It wasn’t at all uncommon to come across a deer or a fox, innocently going about their day in the forest they called home. This sound however, seemed different. A bear perhaps? My heart pounded at the mere suggestion. I suddenly realised that I had veered into an unfamiliar clearing, which did nothing to calm my already escalating sense of dread. What on earth was I supposed to do? Nobody even knew that I was out here. Not that it would matter, if I had indeed stumbled upon a bear.

Every timid footstep sounded louder now. Fallen leaves that covered the forest floor seemed to crunch almost comedically as I tried my hardest to remain as quiet as possible. There was no knowing how far from safety I had ventured, how long it would take for me to reach a path that I recognised and even then, I had no guarantee that I would make it back unscathed. Panic started to set in as the last remaining rays of sunlight began to deplete. I was in even greater danger once darkness fell. Completely unarmed and defenceless against a predator that knew my surroundings better than I did and potentially had the ability to hunt in pitch blackness. Did bears have night vision? I made a mental note to do my research, if by some miracle, I made it out of this seemingly hopeless situation.

Snap.

That sounded closer. My heart pounded against my ribcage as my eyes frantically scanned a shadowy area just ahead of me, beside a bubbling stream. There was something moving there. The falling darkness obstructed my vision, forcing me to edge closer until I finally landed upon the source of the noise.

It was Chris.

Sitting alone on a moss covered bank. His sketchbook opened in his lap, as he scribbled away distractedly, half hidden in the shadows. The small remainder of daylight cascaded through the trees, illuminating a transfixed expression on his face. He looked completely at home, apart of the forestry around him. The exasperated sigh that left me, was a mixture of relief and annoyance at not coming face to face with a bear but also at finding myself, once again, in the company of someone who resented my entire existence. Chris’s gaze darted towards me, a look in his eyes that uncannily resembled a spider ready to hone in on its prey. I wasn’t sure if the bear would have been my best option at this precise moment, as he slammed closed his sketchbook ‘You have got to be kidding me’ he breathed.

The sheer terror and anxiety I had felt in the last few minutes bubbled to the surface as I walked towards him, not caring to keep my movements quiet. After all, Chris was the worst thing I was likely to encounter this evening ‘Must you always be so arrogant?’ I shouted, startled by my own volume ‘I thought you were a bear, do you understand how frightening that is?’

Chris placed his sketchbook down onto the bank beside him, his venomous blue eyes staring me down ‘A bear?’ He smiled amusedly, trying not to laugh at my ridiculous argument. His complete inability to comprehend my fear made me seethe. If only he could feel the way my heart threatened to thump from my chest, although somehow I was certain he could sense it.

‘I suppose you wouldn’t have noticed if I had been eaten’ I scoffed childishly ‘You would have probably been ecstatic’

Chris considered me for a moment before answering ‘I would have noticed the lack of overbearing sweetness’ he ran his tongue across his teeth, a grin edging its way across his lips.

‘What are you drawing?’ I changed the subject, refusing to let his words invoke a further reaction from me. Chris pulled his sketchbook towards him, resting his hand on the graffitied cover ‘Tattoo ideas for a client’ he said casually. But there was something about his behaviour, that told me he wasn’t being entirely truthful. He fidgeted with the pine needles beneath his feet, throwing them absentmindedly into the flowing stream.

‘What are you doing out here anyway?’ He asked, looking up at me. His tone was accusatory and suspicious. Like he had decided at this precise moment, that I had been following him.

‘Picking wildflowers for my dining table display’ I answered. The last few minutes momentarily pushing my true intentions from my mind. My admission seemed to have amused Chris. A smile tugged at his lips as he shook his head ‘With all the flowers you have in your garden, you decided to get your ass lost in the forest to pick wildflowers? Makes perfect sense’

My cheeks flushed as Chris’s words washed over me. I had to admit, my idea sounded almost ridiculous when voiced aloud.

‘The flowers in my garden are grown for decoration’ I replied ‘They are like an extension of my house, I couldn’t pick those’

Chris raised his eyebrow patronisingly ‘So the alternative is to go wandering around the forest, freaking yourself out?’

‘Sometimes you have to put yourself in vulnerable situations to find something beautiful’ I retorted, momentarily rendering Chris speechless. His eyes lingered on me for the longest time before he spoke ‘I suppose so’ he hummed, more to himself.

Chris stood up, his abruptness catching me off guard ‘We should get you back before night falls’ he said ‘The last thing I need is for you to actually get eaten by a bear and then I have to spend my entire evening giving a witness statement’

I picked up my upturned basket, gently arranging the flowers I had so carelessly thrown aside in the face of impending doom. Chris grabbed his sketchbook and pushed it under his arm as he offered his other hand towards me ‘If you slip in the dark you’re gonna break your neck, we really don’t need that shit’

I hesitantly slipped my hand into his. Still unconvinced wether or not he was playing some elaborate prank that would end with me being pushed into the unforgiving stream. Instead, he intertwined our fingers and lead the way through the darkened trees. His steps were intentional and perfectly directed, I could tell that this was a path he took often. Like some nocturnal animal who knew the forest by sense instead of sight. Twisting and turning until we eventually ended up on a familiar clearing.

Chris walked me back to my house, only letting go of my hand once I was safely through my garden gate ‘Make sure to lock your door’ he whispered theatrically, looking over his shoulder ‘Apparently, there are bears in these woods’ there was the smallest hint of a smile on his features, as he turned to leave.

‘Goodnight’ I chirped, watching the shadow of him disappear into the vicinity of his own house. The realisation that we had finally gotten through one bearable encounter, filled me with hope. Hope that maybe there was a chance for us to become friends one day. I smiled at the previously impossible notion.

After showering away the remnants of the forest, I changed into my pyjamas. Ending my eventful evening with a mug of honey tea and the remaining chapters of my romance novella. My sleepy eyes drifted towards the freshly arranged vase of wildflowers on my kitchen table, an idea springing to mind. An insane idea yes, but one I knew would potentially bridge the gap that I so longingly wanted to bridge. Before I could talk myself out of it, I gathered a small bunch of bluebells, binding them together with some discarded yellow twine. I pulled on my cardigan and made my way silently towards Chris’s house.

Light could be seen through dark curtains upstairs in what I assumed was Chris’s bedroom. Being careful not to alert him to someone sneaking around his home in the dead of night, I quickly placed the bunch of wildflowers against his front door before making my way back to my house as quietly as I could. My heart thumped against my ribcage as I reached the safety of my porch. The realisation of what I had just done, weighing heavy on my mind. Would he find my gesture harmless? Or would it irritate him in some way that would ultimately push us backwards? It was impossible to know with any certainty.

I walked up the steps leading toward my front door, my mind preoccupied with tonight’s events when I noticed something propped against my flowerpot. I curiously picked up the scroll of paper, opening it under my porch light. It was a beautifully executed charcoal sketch of a girl, surrounded by flowers and honeybees. Her expression was one of deepest contentment. The attention to detail left me in awe, there was no doubt in my mind that this is what Chris was working on tonight, when I stumbled upon him in that forest clearing. As I looked down upon the charcoal drawing of myself, I was overcome with a warm, emotional feeling inside. It spread through me like fire.

If tonight had taught me anything, it was that Chris and I had much more in common than either of us were willing to admit.

For Better Or For Worse.

Summery: Its reader and Chris’s wedding day, the happiest day of their lives.. until old feelings and old flames resurface.

Warnings: Mentions of cheating, slightly sad.

Pairing: Reader X Chris [Featuring Matt]

The day had finally arrived. The day that every little girl dreamt of when they were six years old. Pouring over bridal magazines and imagining themselves in the beautiful white dress with an elegant rose bouquet as they cascaded down the aisle to meet their very own Prince Charming. In just a few short hours, I would become Mrs Sturniolo. I could hardly believe that I was saying those words out loud. Chris and I were the definition of love at very first sight. The connection was instantaneous and unmistakable. I had never realised that I could love someone so deeply, It seemed almost too good to be true but every day since that fateful first meeting, Chris had proved his devotion to me in every way. I never once had to question his intention or fight for his affection, what we had was a thing of fairytales.

And then I met Matt.

Although nearly identical, Matt and Chris were nothing alike. Chris was extroverted and spontaneous where Matt preferred stillness and tranquility. He had an almost intriguing calmness about him that seemed to draw you in. It drew me in anyway..

‘Welcome to the family’ said Matt, softly kissing me on the cheek a little too close to my lips. Our engagement party had been wonderful. Relatives from far and wide had arrived in LA to celebrate the happy news. Both of our families got on like a house on fire, a notion that I was truly thankful for. Chris and I organised a small gathering of our nearest and dearest, a sort of intimate garden party, away from prying eyes and cameras. The announcement of our engagement had been met with mixed emotions from Chris’s fanbase. The majority of his fans had wished us well and were genuinely happy for us, the other half? Let’s just say, they weren’t exactly thrilled with the news.

Chris had started to become paranoid, the closer our wedding day came. Insisting on accompanying me everywhere I went, constantly checking our surroundings and refusing to share any personal details about our big day on social media. I loved how protective he was . He made me feel safe in every sense of the word and for that, I appreciated him with my every fibre.

The evening of our engagement party changed everything.

My white laced evening dress had the most frustrating corset back. Satin strings that refused to stay tied and several clasps that continuously unfastened. Chris wrapped his arms around my waist from behind, placing a kiss on my shoulder ‘The guy marrying you, is one lucky mother fucker’ he smiled against my bare skin. The flowing drinks had made him merrier than usual as he fully immersed himself in the festivities. I turned to face him, my heart feeling fuller than it ever had ‘Im the lucky one’ I replied, pressing my lips to his in a brief but heated kiss.

My soon to be mother in law beamed at us, snapping a picture on her camera ‘Oh honey, your dress has come undone again’ she whispered quietly, gesturing towards the tangled strings.

‘This damned dress has been a nightmare’ I huffed, starting to get irritated with the stubborn fabric. Chris leaned in close enough that his mother couldn’t hear ‘Its gonna end up on our bedroom floor very soon, so don’t stress too much about it’

‘Im gonna go upstairs and fix it, try not to miss me too much’ I teased, straightening the collar on his unbuttoned white shirt

I felt lightheaded as I ascended the staircase towards our bedroom. The dimmed lighting was such a contrast from the evening sunshine outside. I could hear the low hum of music and the unmistakable taunts of Chris, insisting that Nathan partnered him in a karaoke duet. I smiled to myself as I walked into our shared room, remnants of getting ready together was strewn across our kingsized bed. Our wedding rings encased in matching boxes on the countertop made my heart flutter.

‘Social battery run out already?’ Came a voice from behind me, startling me back to reality. Matt was leaning against the doorframe, the top buttons of his white shirt undone and his tie completely discarded. His hair was slightly disheveled and there was a look of pensiveness etched into his face. With his social anxiety, Matt often needed space to himself at crowded events or parties to recharge his social battery as he called it.

‘My dress keeps coming undone’ I sighed, fiddling with the awkwardly placed strings to no avail ‘Should I change into my pyjamas?’ I asked, admitting defeat as I sat down on the bed.

‘You look beautiful in anything’ replied Matt quietly ‘But as its your engagement party, I really think the dress is the winner’

Before I had the chance to interject, Matt was standing behind me. His fingertips grazing lightly over the laced fabric. I was suddenly hyper aware of how close our bodies were and the confident placement of his congratulatory kiss earlier, rushed back to my mind. He tugged on the tangled strings, opening them in one swift movement ‘There we go’ he hummed softly, I held the front of my dress close to me, feeling exposed as he expertly refastened the metal corset clips ‘Did you do these yourself?’ He asked, pulling me closer towards him. His hands on my waist caused my heart rate to spike. I couldn’t explain why I was suddenly feeling nervous around my soon to be new brother in law ‘Chris assured me, he knew what he was doing’ I smiled, truth being told Chris didn’t have the gentlest touch.

‘That explains everything’ breathed Matt, pulling the strings tight, expelling an unexpected gasp from me ‘Chris needs to learn to be patient, to take his time with you’ his tone was low and dangerous. I felt the hair on the back of my neck stand on end as I felt his warm breath against my bare skin. He started trailing slow teasing kisses down my spine ‘Just.. like.. this..’

His lips left goosebumps in their wake. My skin felt like it was on fire under his calculated touch. His fingers grazed my waist as he slowly turned me around to face him. His chest heaved and his eyes sparkled with pure lust. When our lips met for the first time, our entire dynamic changed. I fully gave myself over to him, melting into his embrace. It was the most passionate, sensual moment of my entire existence. A clash of teeth and tongues, grasping onto one another like we were starving for this forbidden experience. It was the epitome of pure desire.

A knock on my bedroom door ripped us back to the present moment ‘Do you need some help with your dress sweetie?’

My maid of honour and her impeccable timing.

After assuring her that I had everything under control, she left to rejoin the party, leaving me alone with my insatiable guilt. I had just kissed my fiancés brother.. and perhaps it would have lead to more if we hadn’t been interrupted. I suddenly had no motivation to go downstairs and celebrate with everyone, but that would raise suspicion and awkward questions from Chris.

Chris.

The love of my life, whom I had betrayed in the worst possible way. When I finally reentered the party, Chris walked towards me, an oblivious smile on his handsome face. His cheeks were tinged pink from the endless supply of alcohol ‘Where did you get to?’ He asked, pulling me into his arms. I hugged him like I was trying to apologise silently. Over his shoulder, I could see Matt sipping on a bottle of Corona, completely ignoring what Nathan was saying to him as his eyes remained trained on me.

Something in his intense stare solidified what I was already thinking myself, as though we could read each others minds.

This stays between us.

From that moment onwards, nothing happened between us again but there was always a slight tension in the air when we were together. I knew that every time he looked at me, he was reliving that forbidden encounter. I would notice that his eyes lingered on me, just long enough to get my attention before turning away and on more than one occasion, he had looked on the verge of saying something when we were alone but had resisted the temptation at the very last second.

I looked myself over in the floor length mirror. My wedding dress was everything I envisioned and more besides. Elegant lace and pearl detail on the bodice, a hand trimmed veil and a bouquet of beautiful white roses. This was the moment I had dreamt of my entire life. Coming home every night to our own house, starting a family some day and growing old with my bestfriend. I smiled to myself as I imagined Chris and I with our little matching armchairs and slippers, reminiscing back on a life fulfilled with happy memories and unconditional love.

Knock, Knock

The unexpected noise pulled me from my daydream like I had been doused in cold water ‘Come in’ I chimed absentmindedly assuming it was my maid of honour or one of my bridesmaids.

When Matt walked into the room, my heart stopped.

‘You shouldn’t be back here?’ I stuttered. I knew it was bad luck for the groom to see the bride before the vows, but surely the brother in law wasn’t supposed to get the first look.. right?

He looked handsome in his smart black suit and grey gucci tie. He had dark marks under his eyes that told me he hadn’t slept ‘I had to see you’ he whispered, afraid of being overheard by my bridal party ‘I couldn’t let you marry my brother without being completely honest with you’ my heart was threatening to beat out of my chest. I suddenly felt like I was going to faint. Please don’t say what I think you’re about to say right now..

‘I have feelings for you’

He said it.

‘Im not here to ruin your day’ he sighed sadly ‘But I had to be honest with you. I couldn’t live with myself if I didn’t tell you how I truly feel about you. I know that you love Chris and as much as it kills me to admit that, I know what you two have is real. But what we had together? that meant something too’

I had never seen him look so defeated. My heart broke for him but at the same time, I understood exactly how he felt. There was a connection between us, we both felt it that night and Im certain that we felt it every moment since but Chris was my soulmate. The person I loved more than anything or anyone in this god forsaken world and regardless of what I felt for Matt, my heart had always been and would always belong to Chris.

‘I care about you’ I whispered, resting my hand on his cheek. I could feel the remnants of tears that had fallen throughout his heartfelt speech ‘So much, but we can’t do this to him Matt’

It was as though every last drop of life had drained from him. He placed his hand over mine, kissing my palm softly as his warm tears landed onto my fingers. The ache in my chest was unlike anything I had ever experienced, like I was suffocating.

‘Im gonna go find Chris’ he sniffled, refusing to meet my eyes as he fought to compose himself ‘The kid never could fix a tie’

He left the room without another word, pausing only to steal one last glance before closing the door behind himself. Before I could stop myself, my own tears began cascading down my face, threatening to spoil my freshly applied bridal makeup. I had never imagined feeling so devastated on my wedding day.

The entrance music had started. Nerves enveloped me as I waited for my cue. I could see our friends and family seated excitedly on either side of the church, disposable cameras and confetti in their hands. Chris was standing at the alter, Nathan beside him as he fidgeted with his cuff links. My eyes drifted towards Matt, sitting between Nick and Justin. I had barely a second to notice his pale expression before the guests were politely asked to stand for the brides entrance.

Butterflies and guilt fought for dominance in my stomach, as I made my slow descent towards our happily ever after. Camera lenses and beaming faces lined the aisle, providing a sense of calmness and ease. As I walked past Chris’s family, I smiled at their elated expressions. Mary-Lou was wiping her streaming eyes with a tissue as she clutched onto her husband’s arm. I wondered if they were reliving their own wedding day, as they watched me walk down the aisle towards their youngest son. Matt and I locked eyes briefly as a tear rolled down his cheek. Justin wrapped an arm around his shoulder, assuming that his emotion was stemmed from happiness. We knew differently.

Chris had always insisted that he wouldn’t cry when he saw his bride for the first time. His tear streaked face and swollen eyes told another story. Nathan shook his hand and kissed my cheek before taking his seat in the front row. Chris’s hands and voice shook as he read his handwritten vows. His words were beautifully executed, personal and of course humorous. Our videographer caught Mary-Lou’s comedic reaction as Chris promised to keep our fridge stocked with Pepsi and our freezer filled with pizza rolls.. as long as we both shall live.

Our first kiss as husband and wife was met with tumultuous applause from our friends and family. My heart had never felt more full. Chris held my hand proudly as we exited the church, our wedding attire littered with confetti and dried rose petals. I avoided Matts eye line until we were forced to stand together for family photos. His fingertips grazed my waist, discreetly toying with my corset strings as a blatant reminder of our moment together. The innocent smile on his face as he looked toward the camera was one that said ‘In years to come when you look back on these precious memories.. remember me’

Our day was everything I hoped for and more. A fairytale that I had dreamed of my entire life. Two families coming together as one, dancing, drinking and celebrating the union of two people who loved each other more than life itself. Chris and I would be leaving for our honeymoon in the Caribbean, Matt had kindly offered to drop us off at the airport. A kindness that I knew had taken a lot from him. We happily bade our families goodbye with one last glass of champagne before making the short journey to catch our flights. Matt caught my eye in the rearview mirror as Chris pulled me into a brief but passionate kiss. I saw his knuckles tighten on the steering wheel as he retrained his eyes upon the deserted road in front of us.

Chris grabbed our suitcases from the trunk before engulfing Matt in an brotherly hug. He made him promise that he would check in on Mary-Lou, who had been an emotional wreck the entire day. Matt assured him that he would before wrapping his arms around me in a seemingly casual embrace. I could feel his heart beating hard in his chest as he placed a sweet kiss on my cheek, lingering slightly before walking back to his car. The swell of tears in his eyes didn’t go unnoticed by Chris

‘Thats the third time today that Ive noticed him crying’ he sighed heavily ‘I don’t think he can believe that we’re married’

I watched the car lights get smaller in the distance, my heart breaking for the driver who was now undoubtedly crying for a fourth time.

‘I don’t think he can either’

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The Main Attraction.

Summery: Your bestfriend Matt confesses he has feelings for you, during an impromptu day out at an art museum exhibit.

Warnings: None, pure fluff.

Pairing: Bestfriend Matt X Reader.

‘Oh come on, It could be fun?’ Said Matt, in his best sweet talking voice. One he knew for damn sure, I couldn’t say no to. That was Matts superpower. He could convince you to walk into oncoming traffic with those baby blue eyes and that soft pleading tone. It was like trying to decline a toddlers request.

A museum. That was Matts idea of the perfect day out. Quiet, unplugged and set at his own pace ‘More than ten minutes notice would have been nice’ I scoffed, gesturing to the tatty pyjamas I was still wearing. Matts arrival had been completely unexpected, Thats how I knew it meant a lot to him. He would usually plan days out weeks in advance. Matt and I have been friends for almost a year at this point. When I first moved out to LA, he and his brothers were the first people that I met. They helped me move into my apartment, stayed with me on the first night so I wasn’t alone and even ordered us pizza. From that moment onwards, our friendship grew. Matt and I more so. I think it was that our personalities aligned perfectly, we shared the same interests, Pokémon, autumn, JellyCats.. we even had the same taste in music and literature. He was quite literally the male version of me. I just had better boobs.

‘You go shower, I’ll make us breakfast’ said Matt, shooing me away with his hand, as he began pulling pancake ingredients out of my pantry. He knew my apartment as well as he knew his own house, given the amount of time that he spent here.

I threw on a very simple black dress and blow dried my hair. The smell of chocolate chip pancakes and the tuneless hum of Matt singing to himself made me smile. Lately, everything about him made me smile. I have toyed with the notion that I was developing feelings for him ‘But he’s your bestfriend’ said a small voice in the back of my mind, dragging me back to reality. The very last thing I wanted to do, was to ruin what we had by even bringing up the foolish idea. I wouldn’t be able to live with myself if I pushed him away, I cared about him and valued what we had way too much to lose it. Instead I would continue to work through my confusion and hope that it would pass. That one day I would wake and feel different about him.

The drive to the museum was eventful. Matt and I sang along to his driving playlist, like it was the opening night of our tour. The sheer level of comfortability we had around one another, was unlike anything I had experienced in previous friendships. We could be unashamedly ourselves with no fear of judgment or embarrassment. His brothers said that we brought out the best in each other, a comment that always made me smile.

‘How long would something like that take to paint?’ Inquired Matt, as he gazed impressively at a monumental art piece. The gallery lights reflected in his blue eyes, making them the most beautiful thing I had seen thus far, in the entire museum.

‘I could probably do that in, I don’t know? An hour maybe?’ I teased. Earning an eye roll from Matt that invoked a jolt in my stomach. Why was the most niche of actions affecting me so intensely lately? I felt as though I was losing my damned mind.

The afternoon was nothing short of wonderful. We ate dinner in the food hall, bought way too many keychains and trinkets from the museum gift shop and attended the most fascinating exhibition, showcasing intriguing modern art and the talented minds behind the creations. From the corner of my eye, I saw Matt almost fixated on one particular portrait. An oil painting depicting two people, being pulled in opposite directions with a tangle of golden strings connecting their hearts. Upon closer inspection, I noticed the piece was labelled Ties Of The Soul.

There was something so beautifully heartbreaking about it. Matt stared at the canvas as though it had hypnotised him. He looked lost deep in thought, completely immersed in his own world. I lightly touched his arm, startling him back to reality ‘Does this make you feel emotional?’ He whispered nervously, taken aback by his own vulnerable admission.

‘Theres a terrible sadness about it’ I admitted ‘Forbidden love maybe? Or perhaps the right person, in the wrong timeline?’ I was speaking from the heart, subconsciously. Speaking aloud the thoughts I had been keeping to myself. Something about this gut wrenching painting, resonated within me so strongly I felt like I was suffocating on my own words.

‘Or maybe.. It is the right timeline?’ Said Matt softly, his eyes never leaving the canvas ‘But they are too scared to admit it, for fear of losing what they have together’

I suddenly felt like the ground was sinking around me. What was he saying? Did he suspect that I had developed feelings for him? Was that the entire purpose of today? Perhaps I had been too transparent.. crossed a line I never intended to cross. I felt sick to my stomach. This was completely in character for Matt. If he had wanted to talk about something so sensitive, of course he would have chosen a secluded location to do that.

‘Fuck, I really shouldn’t have said anythi-’ said Matt, looking thoroughly irritated with himself. A pink flush forming in his cheeks as he pretended to be interested with his watch strap.

‘No! It’s not your fault’ I interrupted, shaking my head in pure embarrassment ‘I should have just been honest with you, But I couldn’t bare the thought of losing what he have together’

Matt finally met my eyes, a look of pure bewilderment etched onto his face ‘I am so lost right now’ He chuckled, confusedly ‘You should have been honest about what, exactly?’

Needing to hear me admit his suspicions aloud was downright cruel and unjustified. The sting of tears pricked my eyes as I laid my soul bare. Wanting more than anything for this ordeal to be over ‘The way I feel about you kind of snuck up on me. I didn’t ask for it to happen and I have tried so hard to push my feelings aside but Its not fair on me.. It’s not fair on either of us. The last thing I ever wanted was to ruin our friendship because knowing you, has been the best experience of my life and I care about you so much.. I just can’t help how I feel’

The look on Matts face is one I will remember forever. A look of relief, amusement and sadness all wrapped into one ‘You have feelings for me?’ He sighed, stepping closer toward me.

I stepped back, feeling the hot track of tears cascade down my cheeks. Matt lifted my chin gently with his finger, his eyes searching mine for any shred of deceit. There was none to be found. I had never felt so vulnerable and scared in my entire life ‘Im sorry, I never intended on you finding out this way’ my words were coarse, I spoke them with the last ounce of energy I possessed. If this was the end of us, I wanted to be truthful.

‘Ive had feelings for you, since the first moment we met’ Said Matt. Catching me off guard in a way I had never experienced. I replayed his words over and over in my head, unable to fully comprehend what he was saying. He had feelings for me?

‘Why didn’t you tell me you felt that way?’ I asked, earning a smile from Matt that knocked the air from my lungs. My heart felt lighter than it ever had. I couldn’t quite grasp the concept that we had both been struggling with the same feelings of confusion and the above all need to protect our friendship.

‘Probably the same reason you didn’t tell me?’ He said, more to himself than me ‘I couldn’t bare the thought of losing you’

Matt pulled me towards him, like he was afraid I would break. Wrapping his arms around my waist, like he had done on more than one occasion, but this time it felt different. Something had shifted between us. The sensation of his hands on my body gave me goosebumps. As though my skin was electrified by his touch. I could feel his heart, beating in sync with mine as our lips touched for the very first time. He held me closer against him as he deepened the kiss, making me light headed. I had fantasised about what it would feel like to be in this exact situation, but now that I was? It had surpassed all expectation.

I reluctantly pulled back, giving us both the opportunity to catch our breath. Matts eyes remained closed like he was savouring the feeling, his pink lips parted and slightly swollen.

I rested my head against his shoulder, feeling perfectly safe and content in his arms. Matt placed a soft kiss on the top of my head, as he rubbed my back soothingly ‘So what was the highlight of your museum trip?’ I teased, smiling against him.

Matt tilted my chin up, pressing his lips to mine in a soft sweet kiss ‘Confirming what I have known all along’ he whispered.

‘You are my masterpiece’

🏷️1 -> @courta13 @urfaveprettypsycho @privatelyowned-t @conspiracy-ash @swiftie-in-the-moonlight @devotedlyteenagemusic @mattsbee @mamaagirlbehindu123 @bernwentonio @whore4chris @rainyyy-weather @sturniolo-szn2 @angel-sturn1 @rithiisbetter @ariieeesworld @chrisfavslutt @call-me-ninaaa @ch3rrysturns @lun4sst4rs @inkedsturnioloss @rollingintheglitter @shygirl0821 @angelicameron @sheluvsthesturniolos @sturniolosweetie @mattsgirl23 @anniewithan-a @chrisssiren @nessabarrettlover101 @heartsformattybsturns @sturniolosweetie @savmattsfavmattgirl @hearts4zhao @luvvlypixie @sturnsgirlygirl @throatgoat4u @arinott256 @mattsbeloved @pepsipoet @amandapanda2 @hannahsturniolo @chrisfavslutt @brosexy4life @sturnsburna @savmattsfavmattgirl @spookysturnz @sadgirlslush @urmm0m2111

-Baby Daddy Edition.

Requested by -> @littlefrk-satellite-americangirl @bunnybrock & @inkedsturnioloss 🤍

-Friends With Benefits Edition.

🏷️1 -> @courta13 @urfaveprettypsycho @privatelyowned-t @conspiracy-ash @swiftie-in-the-moonlight @devotedlyteenagemusic @mattsbee @mamaagirlbehindu123 @bernwentonio @whore4chris @rainyyy-weather @sturniolo-szn2 @angel-sturn1 @rithiisbetter @ariieeesworld @chrisfavslutt @call-me-ninaaa @ch3rrysturns @lun4sst4rs @inkedsturnioloss @rollingintheglitter @shygirl0821 @angelicameron @sheluvsthesturniolos @sturniolosweetie @mattsgirl23 @anniewithan-a @chrisssiren @nessabarrettlover101 @heartsformattybsturns @sturniolosweetie @savmattsfavmattgirl @hearts4zhao @luvvlypixie @sturnsgirlygirl @throatgoat4u @arinott256 @mattsbeloved @pepsipoet @amandapanda2 @hannahsturniolo @chrisfavslutt @brosexy4life @sturnsburna @savmattsfavmattgirl @spookysturnz @sadgirlslush @urmm0m2111

Caught Up In Your Web.

Summery: Honeybee attempts to make friendly conversation with Spider, leading to an unexpectedly awkward altercation.

Warnings: Slight angst [If you squint]

Pairing: Honeybee Reader X Spider Chris.

A/N: This is chapter one of this AU. For chapter index and character introductions, please see my masterlist -> Here.

I simply adored spring afternoons. The sun was shining down, encapsulating everything in a soft golden glow, a light breeze disturbed the wild flowerbeds, awakening a warm, floral scent that could not be replicated by anything else in nature. During the colder months, my mood fell like the autumnal leaves and crisp snowflakes. I wasn’t built for such a dreary atmosphere.

I thrived in the springtime.

This particular afternoon had been spent adding the finishing touches to my famous Honey Tea. The secret ingredient was a tiny spoonful of cinnamon powder, to cut through the citrusy sweetness. I carefully placed parchment paper on the lids of my mason jars before securing them with twine ‘Beautiful’ I murmured to myself, pleased with the final product. My little business had really started to take off these last few months. My baked desserts were also a huge hit among the people in my village. As fast as I could whip up a batch of blueberry and raspberry muffins or warm butter croissants, they were gone.

Once my orders had been packaged up, ready for collection. I decided to spend the remainder of my evening sitting outside on my porch swing, finishing up the deliciously addictive book I had been obsessed with this month. A cosy blanket serving as the perfect addition to the light breeze that had begun to blow. I was perfectly content.

‘Do you do anything except read?’ Came a sniggering voice from the bottom of my garden path, catching me off guard.

Chris. My insufferably arrogant neighbour.

Chris and I had lived next door to one another, for almost eight months now. Eight months of snide remarks, smirky eye rolls and a knack for getting on my very last nerve. Every time we regrettably crossed paths, he couldn’t help himself. It’s like he got an intense thrill by being as irritating as humanly possible. The day after I moved into my house, I sent around a little basket of homemade goodies with a letter introducing myself. The next morning, I awoke to the empty basket propped upon my gatepost, with a scribbled reply on the back of my letter.

‘Brownies need more sugar -Chris’

From that day forward, our only interactions had been short, blunt and borderline rude on his end. Upon prying information from people in the village, I had learned that Chris preferred his own company and refused to interact with most people. Nobody really knew anything about him, other than his name. Me on the other hand? I could tell that still waters ran deep in him. There was something so alluring about him, something deeper. Every snubbed conversation only made me want to try harder next time. A notion that was proving almost impossible.

‘Actually, Ive been baking all day’ I replied enthusiastically ‘I have a whole batch of brownies, if you would like to try them? I added more sugar like you suggested and they’re delicious’

Chris leaned against my gate, even from my distance I could see the venomous hue of his blue eyes. He started to pick at a climbing rosebush I had been growing, dropping leaves to the pavement below his feet ‘If they are even half as sugary as you, they will be unbearable’ he remarked, his eyes rolling back into his head ‘Your sweetness is so sickening, I feel like Im choking on it, whenever you open your mouth’ His tone was cold and condescending. Invoking a chill throughout me, that had nothing to do with the declining temperature outside.

Our eyes locked and time stood still. I was convinced that he could physically hear my heart thumping against my ribcage. The sense of unease consumed me like cold water as he lit the cigarette between his teeth, his blue eyes never leaving mine. This must be what a small insect feels like, being tangled up in an inescapable web as something much larger and hungrier closes in on you. I felt vulnerable under his intense gaze.

‘Im just trying to be friendly’ I replied, slightly hurt from his words ‘You don’t have to be so rude all the time, you know’

Chris considered me for the longest time. I could almost see the cogs working furiously in his head as he conjured up a suitable, no doubt rude response. There was something so hypnotising about his presence. I felt routed to the spot as he chewed over his words ‘Maybe Its easier that way?’ He said, thoroughly pleased with his answer ‘Or maybe, you shouldn’t be so.. inviting shall we say, to strangers. It could end badly’

His tone was calculated and intimidating.. threatening almost. It made the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end.

‘We’ve been neighbours for almost eight months’ I retorted, sounding braver than I felt, at that precise moment ‘I wouldn’t exactly call us strangers Chris?’

The sound of his name being spoken aloud seemed to have a negative effect on him. Like he wasn’t used to hearing it said so softly. A muscle tensed in his jaw as he inhaled the last bit of his cigarette, stubbing it out on the bottom of his shoe ‘And I wouldn’t exactly call us friends’ He mocked, the faintest hint of a smirk tugging at his lips, as he stalked off in the direction of the forest behind our adjoining houses.

I love you so much🤍

-Friends With Benefits Edition.

🏷️1 -> @courta13 @urfaveprettypsycho @privatelyowned-t @conspiracy-ash @swiftie-in-the-moonlight @devotedlyteenagemusic @mattsbee @mamaagirlbehindu123 @bernwentonio @whore4chris @rainyyy-weather @sturniolo-szn2 @angel-sturn1 @rithiisbetter @ariieeesworld @chrisfavslutt @call-me-ninaaa @ch3rrysturns @lun4sst4rs @inkedsturnioloss @rollingintheglitter @shygirl0821 @angelicameron @sheluvsthesturniolos @sturniolosweetie @mattsgirl23 @anniewithan-a @chrisssiren @nessabarrettlover101 @heartsformattybsturns @sturniolosweetie @savmattsfavmattgirl @hearts4zhao @luvvlypixie @sturnsgirlygirl @throatgoat4u @arinott256 @mattsbeloved @pepsipoet @amandapanda2 @hannahsturniolo @chrisfavslutt @brosexy4life @sturnsburna @savmattsfavmattgirl @spookysturnz @sadgirlslush @urmm0m2111

-Honeybee Reader X Spider Chris.

🏷️1 -> @courta13 @urfaveprettypsycho @privatelyowned-t @conspiracy-ash @swiftie-in-the-moonlight @devotedlyteenagemusic @mattsbee @mamaagirlbehindu123 @bernwentonio @whore4chris @rainyyy-weather @sturniolo-szn2 @angel-sturn1 @rithiisbetter @ariieeesworld @chrisfavslutt @call-me-ninaaa @ch3rrysturns @lun4sst4rs @inkedsturnioloss @rollingintheglitter @shygirl0821 @angelicameron @sheluvsthesturniolos @sturniolosweetie @mattsgirl23 @anniewithan-a @chrisssiren @nessabarrettlover101 @heartsformattybsturns @sturniolosweetie @savmattsfavmattgirl @hearts4zhao @luvvlypixie @sturnsgirlygirl @throatgoat4u @arinott256 @mattsbeloved @pepsipoet @amandapanda2 @hannahsturniolo @chrisfavslutt @brosexy4life @sturnsburna @savmattsfavmattgirl @spookysturnz @sadgirlslush @urmm0m2111

Because Im British, Sweetheart🫢