Savage🪄

The marriage started off perfect. You and Jackie had everything. The white picket fence, two intelligent sons—one six, the other eight—and a mean three-carat wedding ring on your finger.

On the outside looking in, you were living the American dream. As time went on, the dream slowly formed into a nightmare. Jackie began to sneak in at wee hours of the morning.

His attitude felt like a ticking time bomb, never knowing when he was going to snap. He became more secretive, blaming it on his job.

The day your world crumbled was when Jackie told you he was staying late at work one night. “Okay baby! I’ll see you later.” You told him, hanging up the phone.

It was already pushing 8 p.m. so you got the kids ready for bed. They were great kids, grades kept high and sweet as apple pie. You decided to cook Jackie’s favorite meal, in hopes to ease the tension he had in the house.

He was still your husband, and you loved him dearly, but a rough patch had settled over your marriage. The arguments, him staying out late, the excuses, the lack of intimacy.

You knew marriage came with ups and downs, and you believed it was just time for yours. The mashed potatoes sat warm on the stove, and his favorite chicken began to cool down.

You decided to stay up and wait for his arrival. You wanted to show him you were still showing up for him, even when times are hard.

You sat on the couch staring at the grainy drama show on television.

9:10 p.m.

You decided to go ahead and eat, you made his plate in the process and set it in the microwave.

10:00 p.m.

You yawned, attempting to rub the sleep away. “Mommy…is daddy home?” Your youngest said, looking through the spindles of the staircase.

“Not yet baby, go on back to bed. I’ll tell him you said goodnight.” The small heartache tinged at your heart watching the slow head nod from your child.

His tiny feet pattered up the stairs and you let out a sigh.

11:00 p.m.

“He’s just busy.” You muttered to yourself. You curled up on the couch, head resting on the pillow, knees tucked into your chest.

Your breath began to slow down as you fell asleep.

•••

The soft clicks of a door brought you out of your sleep. You sat up while rubbing the sleep out of your eyes and watched as Jackie trudged through the door.

Your eyes darted to the clock, processing that it was 2 a.m.

2:00 a.m.

Your eyebrows knitted together and you felt a boiling pot of anger taking over. You stayed up, cooked for him, and even slept on the damn couch, just for him to walk in at 2 in the morning.

“Jackie, what the hell?” You tried to keep your voice low knowing your kids were upstairs. His eyes lazily looked at you, “Why are you even awake?” He asked.

His voice held no concern, not even sparing a second glance. “I…I waited for you. I even cooked for you.” Your feet met the carpet as you stood up to walk over to him.

As you got closer, your stomach began to churn. A light floral perfume lingered around him.

You hated the smell of flowers.

You shook your head, assuming you’re imagining things. “Sorry, baby.” He leaned down to kiss your forehead, which only made the smell slightly stronger.

You placed your hand on his chest, feeling the rapid heartbeat that wasn’t obvious to the naked eye. “Where you been Jackie?” You whispered.

You prayed in your head, that it wasn’t one of your worst fears.

Please God, please God, please God

A large ball of anxiety was caught in your stomach as you waited for his response. “I already told you work.”

“Not till no two in the morning, Jackie.” you crossed your arms, feeling your vision blur from tears.

“Don’t make no stupid ass assumptions.” He nudged past you, making you slightly stumble back. “Your children were looking for you, Jackie.” Your voice slightly raised, turning towards him.

His tall stature just eased into the kitchen as if he couldn’t feel the heavy weight of the allegations you were implying. “I’ll see ‘em in the mornin’.” He pressed a button on the microwave, letting his food warm up.

You pinched the bridge of your nose, feeling an incoming headache. This wasn’t the man you married. It felt like you were looking at a stranger.

“Don’t play in my face right now.” You let out a shaky exhale, every nerve ending rattling in your body. You thought about the times Jackie would hold you when you cried, reassure you, and build you up when you felt broken.

“Ain’t nobody playin’ you always on my ass about something. Just go to bed, damn.” The fatigue in his voice made a pang of guilt flow through your heart.

But your mom didn’t raise a fool, and you refused to be treated wrong. “Just tell me the truth, that’s all I ask.” You kept your voice steady, even while your hands shook by your sides.

The slight whirr of the microwave stopped, and he remained quiet as he took his plate out. Once he grabbed a fork, he made his way to the dining table. “The truth is I’m tired of you accusing me of bullshit.”

“I’m not crazy Jackie, and you’re not about to treat me like I am.” You sat across from him, refusing to look away from him even while his eyes refrained to meet yours.

He took a bite of the mashed potatoes, swallowing before sighing. “I think you are, baby. Now can I get something to drink?” The nerve he had.

Waltzing in here like he’s a king, not hearing his wife’s concerns. “Hell no, get it your damn self.” Your eyebrows felt like they were permanently sewn together, refusing to relax in the face of a liar.

“Look, woman.” his hand smacked against the table making you jump. He leaned over the table, closer to you, and the smell of the perfume made you light-headed.

“Get it through that damn skull of yours, ain’t nobody cheatin.” As you stared into his eyes, you realized the void look they possessed. A chill ran through your spine.

A small mark caught your attention as his shirt collar slightly unfolded. A dark purple bruise peeked above his collar. A dark purple stain of lust.

One tiny mark.

One tiny mark that sent your family down the path of destruction.

“Then what the fuck is that?” You muttered, voice refusing to raise. Your gaze locked on to the mark, and his eyes flickered, noticing he slipped up.

“Nothin.” He sat back in his chair, trying to fix his collar but it was already too late. The kitchen chair scraped against the hard wood floor as you marched upstairs.

“Come back here.” Jackie said, not too loud but not as quiet either. His words fell on deaf ears as you continued upstairs, heading straight for the bedroom closet.

The bedroom where the two of you ate Chinese food in bed at midnight, laughing till your stomachs hurt. The bedroom where your wedding portrait hung above the bed frame, capturing a version of you two that didn’t exist anymore. The bedroom where Jackie promised you forever.

You never thought forever had an ending.

You waited for tears to fall. You waited for the heartbreaking agony you knew was bubbling. It didn’t come. The woman who cried over sappy movies, who cried when she was yelled at, and even cried reading books, felt nothing as she stood in the midst of infidelity.

You grabbed a suitcase and tossed your clothes inside. The shifting of hangers and the sound of Jackie’s footsteps coming upstairs meshed into one.

You wanted nothing more than to get out of here. Jackie finally walked into the room, noticing your frantic hurry to pack your stuff. “The hell are you doing? Put your clothes back.”

The silence settled heavy between you two. His wife who wouldn’t even hurt a fly held a blank face. “Baby.” His long legs carried him to you, and a large palm pressed against your shoulder.

“Don’t touch me.” Your voice came out low, no ounce of feeling in your tone. He watched you, noticing the stoic expression as you shrugged his hand off you.

He finally realized how serious the situation truly was. “Let’s just talk about this.” He grasped your elbow. “Ain’t nothing to talk about Jackie.” You tugged your arm away and walked towards the shared dresser. The dresser that held up the framed photo you, Jackie, and the kids on a summer beach day.

You began to take clothes out of there, hoping to rid of any proof you stayed here. “You really about to leave me?” Jackie tilted his head with a scoff. You felt offended that he truly thinks you were gonna stay with him after this.

You remained silent, grabbing even your jewelry off the dresser. His eyes followed you noticing you had no intentions of stopping. “Baby, wait, talk to me.”

The steady hand as you zipped the first suitcase worried him. The creeping sensation of guilt crawled upon him, and he realized what he’s done.

The silence was gnawing at him, he wanted—no—needed you to say something. “I’m sorry, ma.” The soft snores from his children in the other room, felt like a bullet to his back.

He ruined it.

“Sorry for what, Jackie.” Your gaze fell on him, seeing nothing but a stranger who threw away his family for a moment of pleasure.

“For hurting you.” His voice shook, and his eyes searched the room, trying to find a sense of redemption. “How did you hurt me?”

He knew what you wanted. Not another excuse or dismissive apology, you wanted the truth. The nasty confession of the sin he committed. “I-I-“ Never in all your years of knowing Jackie had you seen him look so afraid.

“Say it.” Your voice cut through. He almost felt nauseous being put on the spot. You’re the emotional one, not him. Never him. But he hoped for the earth to open and swallow him whole to escape the burning feeling of regret.

“I stepped out…of our marriage.” He fixated on the floor, too ashamed to meet your sullen eyes. The emptiness of words only increased the tension between the two of you.

You slowly nodded and directed your attention to the now cluttered suitcase. You didn’t want to know the details, you’d rather spare your pride. You quietly zipped the final suitcase.

“Baby, listen to me” Jackie attempted to grab your hand but was met with air as you moved away in a hurry. You walked out and down the hall, Jackie trailing behind you. “We can fix this, please.” The begging would’ve torn you apart.

If only you weren’t already.

You quietly opened the children’s room, preparing yourself for the questions they may throw at you. The room was dark with a gentle flood of light from the moon shining through the window.

The boys were asleep, soft snores filling the room. Dreaming of kiddy problems, completely unaware of the crack running straight through their parents’ marriage.

“What the hell are you doing?” Jackie didn’t bother to quiet his voice, too overwhelmed from the lack of emotion he received. You didn’t respond, moving to their closet and gathering their own suitcases.

Jackie felt the choking pressure of reality, watching as you stuffed the children’s items in the suitcases. The small rattles from hangers had the oldest slightly shift, gripping tighter onto the stuffed dinosaur.

You moved across the race-car rug, moving to grab a few of their toys. superhero figurines, cars, trucks, wrestling figures.

It felt like a knot was stuck in Jackie’s throat, not budging an inch no matter how many times he swallowed. Once you packed the main things, you reached for the oldest, tapping his shoulder with such gentleness.

“Don’t you dare wake my son up.” Jackie’s voice had bass in it, unaware of the volume. “Daddy?” The youngest sat up, rubbing his eyes.

He focused on the familiar figure in the room, making him out in the dark. “You’re home!” The urge to reach out for him took hold of you, wanting to take everything away from Jackie.

“Hey little man.” Jackie squatted down, gathering the small child in his arms. Jackie hoped the weight of his sin didn’t get in the way of the father he once was.

“Wake up, honey.” You whispered to the oldest, continuing to shake him. The soft cotton of his shirt shifted as he stretched his lanky body.

“Mom?” He finally sat up, looking at you with an exhaustion in his eyes. He noticed Jackie standing by the entrance, and his face shifted to confusion.

Based on the moonlight and the quiet street, he assumed it was still late. Too late for both of his parents to be standing in the room. “What’s going on?”

“Nothing, baby, we’re just going away for a little.” You let out a smile, a struggling one. He wasn’t a baby. He knew something was wrong. He couldn’t exactly figure out what.

“Where are we going?” he asked. “Nowhere.” Jackie stood up, the youngest still cradled in his arms. “Jackie, we are leaving and that’s final.”

The oldest watched as his two protectors went back and forth. Voices holding nothing but malice.

“They’re not just your kids, are you insane?!” Jackie stepped closer to you. “Me? Insane? Jackie be serious. Get the hell out of the way.” You grabbed the suitcases, shoving past Jackie.

You set them by the entrance of the house and went back upstairs to grab yours. You were infuriated. Jackie cheats on you and expects to still claim his kids.

You expected to feel sadness, melancholy, maybe even sickness. But only the flood of anger rushed through your veins. “Come on y’all.” You told the kids walking back into the room.

The youngest didn’t have much of a choice as you took him from Jackie’s arms. The oldest, who tended to be a mommy’s boy followed your instructions. He slid his bare feet into his slippers and put his black framed glasses on.

“Son.” Jackie’s eyes were on him, noticeably glazed over. He noticed his father staying out more, but like any child, he’d believed his mother’s excuse that daddy was just working.

“Yeah?”

“Come here.” Jackie squatted to be at the same height as him. Jackie always dreamed to be the man that his son looks up to. At this moment, he hoped it didn’t come true.

As his son’s smaller legs walked over, a wave of guilt and regret took over, and most of all

Disappointment.

Now that his son was standing directly in front of him, he was at a loss of words. He did this. He ruined the family. He studied the little face in front of him, and it felt like his own features stared back.

It felt like staring at a reflection of his younger self. “I love you, man.” Jackie muttered, his hands reached up, adjusting the boy’s glasses properly.

“Love you too, dad.” The boy’s arms came up, wrapping around Jackie’s neck to embrace him. Jackie fought back the painful cry he wanted to let out, and hugged him back.

He failed his family and now he had to live with it.

6 months later…

“Don’t forget your bag, baby.” You told the oldest as you took the youngest out of his car seat. It was finally Friday so Jackie has the kids for the weekend.

“I got it, mom!” He swung the Spider-Man bag upon his shoulders, slightly wobbling from the weight. The youngest weighed heavy in your arms as you lifted him from the car seat and set him down on the pavement, grasping his tiny hand into yours.

Every time you dropped the kids off at Jackie’s place it felt like you were walking into a black hole. Legally, you were still married, but the divorce was already underway.

Jackie made you fight tooth and nail for him to sign. He demanded you sit with him to have one last discussion, a chance at his redemption but in the end your mind stayed firm.

As time went on, and you continued dropping the kids off, Jackie only seemed exhausted. The weight of his life he’d thrown away seemed to hang on his shoulders. His eye bags were darker, he was losing weight, but he always carried a smile when he saw the kids.

He refused to let them see their own father breaking down. Of course there were questions from the kids.

“Why aren’t you and daddy staying together?”

“Did y’all break up?”

“Will we live together again?”

Eventually, the questions became less frequent, and they’ve gotten used to the dynamic. The oldest figured out what was happening already.

Conversations of divorce whispered around the house and he couldn’t help but listen. He didn’t fully understand, but he knew his father smiled less while his mom cried less.

“Come on, baby.” You told your youngest as he was distracted by a random crack on the ground. You heard the door crack and your eyes lifted to see Jackie walking out.

A dark Jean jacket covered his arms to avoid the cold weather. His hair was grown out forming the cloud like Afro he had when you first met.

God, the memories.

You could almost perfectly envision running into his arms when he surprised you for your birthday. A kiss pressed against your forehead and a promise he’d never leave you.

Promises weren’t always true.

You cleared your throat as you and the kids walked closer to him. A small gust of wind blew past your cheeks, sending a chill on your face.

“Hi dad!” The youngest called out, removing his palm from yours. His heated hand was replaced by the whipping air as you heard his shoes pat against the ground till he reached his father.

“Wassup little man.” Jackie crouched to pick him up, a smile bright on his face. They might not notice, but you did. The smile never quite reached his eyes.

The oldest came closer, tugging on your sleeve. You squatted down, face to face with your child, who resembled Jackie to a T. “Love you.” He wrapped his arms around your neck, small Afro tickling your cheek.

“Love you too, baby.” You rubbed his back, warmth flooding your heart. Jackie set the youngest down, greeting the oldest with a hug. You could tell he loved his kids. You just wished that was enough for him.

“Gon head and get settled in the house, I’mma talk to your momma.” The kids wasted no time to run inside, excited to receive their weekly McDonald’s meal.

Jackie watched until they were out of sight, door closing, leaving you and him. You gnawed at the skin of your bottom lip, itching to turn and bolt to the car.

You had a date in a few hours anyway, and you still needed to redo your hair. “How you been?” Jackie asked, sliding his hands into his Jean pockets.

“Just…living. You?” You attempted to keep eye contact with him but the nostalgic connection circled heavy around the two of you.

“Same” a small silence floated in between, “you look nice.” His eyes trailed your outfit. A white long sleeve dress with a cream trench coat. His attention drifted to white platform heels he loved on you.

His heart tightened. “Thank you.” You smoothed down any wrinkles on the dress, not addressing the fact you had a date.

None of his business anyway, but the disgusting itch to throw it in his face lingered. That wasn’t your character, you rather not kick a man whiles he’s down.

“Heading anywhere?” It felt like the universe teased you, giving you the opportunity to throw out your selfish wants. “Just to eat.” You kept it vague, hoping the conversation would end there.

The question he wanted to ask cracked at the opening of his mouth, begging to spill out. As much as he didn’t want to know, he needed to know.

“You seein’ somebody?” The world paused around him, anticipating your answer. He noticed the way you hesitated, lips opening and closing slightly, thinking of an answer.

“Yeah.” Silence. Jackie’s heart broke once again and he knows it’s his fault. He slowly nodded, “He treatin’ you right?” As much as he was hurt, you still meant a lot to him.

He wish it wasn’t too late to show you.

You nodded, a corner of your lips slightly lifted. Jackie noticed, he always does. “Good.” Rather than feeling bad, you felt empathetic.

Empathetic to the man that broke your heart. “Take care y’hear?” Jackie nodded his head at you, large boots taking small steps back.

“You too.” You muttered, not turning around just yet.

A small look of acknowledgment passed between the two of you. Your eyes drifted to the house you once shared.

Six months ago, you’d thought you grow old there. Now you only visited once a week.

With a quiet sigh, you opened the door and slid into the driver’s seat. Your hands rested on the steering wheel for a moment.

Silence filled the car, and in that silence, you’d acknowledge the woman you’d become.

Jackie remained on the porch, watching as your car disappeared down the street. A realization hit him, the realization that nothing he could say or do, would bring you back.

He was once the love of your life, your soulmate, your husband. Now he’s just the father of your children.

"I am not smitten. It's her birthday today. I don't want to upset her or some shit." He replied, grabbing the white paper bag that contained his gifts for you from the same counter.

Jaafar nodded knowingly, opening the front door and letting Jermajesty get out first before he got out of the house as well, locking the doors behind him. The two brothers hurriedly went to Jaafar's car but was interrupted by Randy Jr.

"Hey! Hold up!" Randy jogged down the steps and smiled at his younger brothers. "Give this to her, alright? Tell her I'm sorry I can't make it." Jermajesty took the small box from his brother's hands and nodded before entering the car.

Jaafar slid into the driver's seat, fastening his seatbelt as Jermajesty carefully set the small gift box on his lap.

"I'll tell her," Jermajesty assured.

Randy leaned against the open window with a grin. "And tell her happy birthday from all of us."

"I literally just said I would."

"Yeah, but now I'm reminding you."

Jermajesty gave him a flat look. "Thanks."

With a laugh, Randy stepped away from the car and tapped the roof twice. "Drive safe."

Jaafar started the engine, waving once before pulling out of the driveway. The neighborhood slowly disappeared behind them as they merged onto the main road.

⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪

The bell above the shop door chimed as the brothers stepped inside. The cool air carried the fresh scent of greenery and blooming flowers. Buckets of roses, lilies, carnations, daisies, tulips, and countless other flowers lined the walls in neat rows, filling the little shop with every color imaginable.

An elderly florist greeted them warmly from behind the counter. "Looking for something specific?"

"It's our friend's birthday," Jaafar answered.

The florist smiled knowingly. "Well, birthdays always deserve flowers." As the florist gave Jaafar various options and suggestions, Jermajesty already drifted away from the conversation, wandering through the aisles before she even finished speaking.

Jaafar thanked the lady and followed his younger brother who glared at the options in front of him. "Relax," Jaafar teased. "The flowers didn't do shit to you, Maj."

"They have to be perfect." Jermajesty shook his head, lightly dragging his fingers against the flowers, still looking for a specific one.

After another minute, Jermajesty's eyes finally landed on a bucket tucked toward the back of the shop. His expression softened almost instantly. "There they are."

He carefully picked up a bouquet of white lilies and asked the lady if he could customize it. The lady smiled and nodded, immediately attending to his needs.

Jermajesty added a few stems of pink carnations, several pale pink roses, and sprigs of baby's breath to soften the arrangement and fill the empty spaces. Once he was satisfied with how it looked, he paid for the bouquet, grabbing a tray of chocolates from the counter to go with it before heading towards his brother on the other side of the store.

"Did you find one already?" Jermajesty asked impatiently. Jaafar looked up then turned his gaze down to his brother's bouquet. "Damn," he said, clearly impressed.

Jermajesty gave him a smug smile, "Damn right. I don't play about her. Now, hurry up. I'll wait outside."

After a few more minutes, Jaafar settled on a simple bouquet of roses and a handwritten letter.

⋆౨ৎ˚⟡˖ ࣪

Finally, after what seemed to feel like forever, the brothers arrived at your place. As soon as they stepped in, they were greeted by the sound of lively chatter, random music playing through the speakers, and the decorations that surrounded the walls.

"Jacksons! You made it!" A friend of yours greeted, giving both the brothers a side hug and telling them you were somewhere in the place, entertaining your guests. They nodded gratefully and made their way to the living room, only to be greeted by your family members.

The most annoying, nosy, and cheesy ass people in your life in your opinion.

"Oh shit, here comes the Jacksons!" Your brother hollered, earning the attention of the other guests. "Long time no see, man! Aye, congrats on the movie. You did amazing, Jaafar." He shook Jaafar's hand who sheepishly smiled and thanked him.

Your brother turned to Jermajesty and smiled, dapping him up as well. "My man. You've grown!"

"Man, I'm the same age as your sister—"

"Speaking of! Birthday girl! C'mere! Your Prince Charmings are here." Your brother teased. You turned your head towards him and your eyes landed on the brothers. Quickly excusing yourself from the other guests, you quietly squealed in excitement at the sight of your two most favorite and closest Jacksons.

"You made it!" You wrapped your arms around Jaafar first, thanking him for coming. Then, you moved towards Jermajesty and immediately felt a shift in the air. Your arms awkwardly hung in the air, thinking if you should hug him or not.

Ah, fuck it. "Thanks for coming, Maj." You hugged him tightly, mentally freaking out at how good he smelled right now. Was he wearing a new scent? Why does it matter? He hugged you with equal force, squeezing your waist with his free hand. "Wouldn't miss it for the world, mama. Happy birthday."

He pulled away and handed you a white paper bag, minimalistic yet elegant in its own way. Before you could protest, wanting to say he shouldn't have gotten you anything, he handed you a bouquet of your favorite flowers.

"Jer! Thank you!" You kissed his cheek absentmindedly, already turning your attention towards Jaafar who gave you another bouquet and a handwritten letter.

She kissed me. Well, my cheek. But she kissed me. Holy shit. Jermajesty thought.

His eyes raked your outfit, watching your every move as you continued to talk with his brother. He felt so mesmerized at the sight of you that he almost didn't notice Jaafar's hand at your lower back— keyword: almost.

He cleared his throat and stepped towards you, stopping once your back hit his chest. Glaring at his older brother, he gently removed Jaafar's touch from your body and replaced it with his arm snaking behind your waist.

You were still oblivious to whatever feud that was happening between the brothers. Smiling at both of them, you gestured Jaafar to follow you while you simultaneously pulled Jermajesty as well. The three of you made it to the dining area and you immediately offered them snacks.

"Make yourselves at home! Ah, thank you so much for coming guys. I was about to lose my mind." You chuckled, offering them a glass of your favorite champagne.

"Miss us that much, angel?" Jaafar smiled, gently taking the glass. Noticing the nickname, Jermajesty rolled his eyes before fixing his expression the moment your attention was on him. "Thank you, pretty."

"You have no idea how much my family's been grilling my ass. My aunts and uncles have been trying to make me sing for the last hour."

Jaafar chuckled. "And? Did you?"

"Hell no! They'd have to bribe me to make me sing in front of them." She took a sip of her drink before leaning her elbows against the kitchen counter with Jaafar doing the same. Jermajesty stayed in his place, tracing patterns against your waist as he listened to you and his brother talk once again.

"Oh, come on. I love hearing you sing."

You rolled your eyes, pointing a finger at him. "We won't talk about that."

"I'm serious!" Jaafar smiled, a sight that any other girl would melt at— especially you. "Okay, shut up. I'm still not singing. I might if I'm drunk enough—"

Your conversation was interrupted by your aunt loudly calling your name from the living room. "There she is!"

"Oh, fuck..." You pinched the bridge of your nose, already knowing what was coming.

Your aunt marched over with the confidence only an aunt at a family gathering could possess, two of your older cousins trailing behind her with matching grins. "So these are the Jackson boys!"

Jaafar immediately stood a little straighter and Jermajesty silently prepared for impact.

"I've heard so much about you two."

Your eyes widened.

"...You have?"

"Oh, absolutely." Your aunt replied. You whipped your head toward your aunt. "Auntie—"

"She talks about you all the time."

"Auntie!"

"What?" she asked innocently. "I'm just telling the truth." Heat immediately rushed to your face. Jermajesty, meanwhile, was trying very hard not to smile. Jaafar wasn't nearly as successful.

"Well, what does she say? Good things, I hope?" Jaafar chuckled, covering his smile behind his hand as he avoided your playful glare. "Don't encourage her, J!"

"Of course! She always says how kind you boys are... and how funny you are—"

"Auntie, please—"

"She told us how you, Jaafar, are really caring, kind, and charming. And how Jermajesty remembers every little thing she tells him and how she loves—"

Silence. Complete utter silence followed the three of them, especially Jermajesty. He felt every pair of eyes slowly drift toward him except yours.

Your embarrassment hit at an all-time high.

"Auntie, please stop talking. Oh, look! Your kid's running around, get him before he trips."

Jaafar looked at his younger brother. "Huh."

Jermajesty cleared his throat. "...I mean, I try."

"You do," your aunt agreed. "She mentioned once that she wanted pink carnations and lilies, and the next thing I know—"

Your eyes darted to the bouquet in your hands that was filled with pink carnations, white lilies and baby's breath— your ideal bouquet.

For a second, the chatter around the house faded into the background. Jermajesty forgot about your relatives, the music, the party—everything except the way you were looking at him.

Then, right on cue, your brother appeared again. He took one look at Jermajesty's expression and burst into laughter.

"Sorry to burst whatever's happening here but Mom's calling you, bug. We gotta cut the cake and eat!" Your brother pulled you away from whatever that was and for the first time, you mentally thanked him for interrupting your moment.

Jaafar watched his brother's gaze never leave your retreating figure, a slight annoyed look on his face. He poked his tongue inside his cheek before patting Jermajesty's shoulder. "Come on."

The brothers followed the growing crowd into the dining area where the birthday cake sat in the center of the table, surrounded by flickering candles. Someone dimmed the lights, earning a chorus of playful whistles from your younger cousins.

"There she is!" your mom laughed, gently guiding you toward the cake.

You protested immediately. "Mom, no—"

"Stand."

"But—"

"Come on, bug!"

You sighed dramatically, earning a round of laughter as you took your place behind the cake. Your little cousin was already fumbling with a lighter. "I got it! I got it!"

"No, sweetheart," your dad chuckled, taking it from him before disaster could strike. "Let me."

One by one, the candles came to life. The room dimmed even further. The warm glow danced across your face, and for a brief moment, the chatter died down.

Then—

"Happy birthday to you..."

The singing began and your heart swelled with love and joy. You laughed at your aunts who tried to out-sing one another, your smile growing by the second as your family dramatically sang.

You hear Jermajesty singing too, just loud enough for you to hear when your eyes instinctively searched the crowd. You found him almost immediately, sending a smile your way. Not the loud, teasing grin he wore around everyone else. A softer one reserved entirely for you.

Without thinking, you smiled back. Jaafar caught the silent exchange from beside him. Of course. He looked away before either of you noticed.

"...Happy birthday to you." The song ended with loud cheers and applause.

"Speech!" someone yelled.

"No!" You protested, shaking your head as you blew the candles out and placed the cake down.

"Speech!"

"No speeches!"

"Speech!"

You covered your face with both hands, laughing helplessly. "Okay, okay!" you finally gave in. "Um..." You looked around at everyone gathered in your home. "Thank you all for coming. It really means a lot... I know everyone has busy schedules, so thank you for making time for me."

Your eyes lingered on Jaafar. "Especially people who just came back from press tours around the world."

Jaafar gave you a small salute, winking in the process which made you blush and look away.

You finished your sappy speech and clapped your hands together. "Okay! Enough talking. Let's eat!"

Plates were passed around while music resumed through the speakers. Guests split into smaller groups again, conversations picking up where they'd left off.

Jermajesty found himself standing near the kitchen island with a slice of cake balanced in one hand.

"You haven't touched your cake, Maj." He looked over and saw you standing behind him. You had somehow escaped the swarm of relatives again and wanted to spend time with Jermajesty.

"I've been... distracted."

"I can see that," you chuckled before nodding towards the slice of cake. "Try it." He nodded, taking a small bite while you watched him carefully. "Do you like it?"

"...Mhm."

You narrowed your eyes. "You hesitated."

"I was chewing!" He replied, shoulders raised in defense as you laughed at him. You nodded your head sarcastically, taking the fork from his hands and taking a small piece of cake for yourself.

He watched as you carefully place the fork against your lips, sniffing the delicious scent before eating it. You hummed in delight as the familiar flavor of chocolate burst in your tongue. He smiled softly as some of the frosting got smudged against the corner of your mouth.

Without thinking about it, he raised his hand and wiped the frosting off with his thumb. As he kept eye contact with you, he licked the frosting off his thumb and tilted his head at your flustered expression. "...I'm more of a vanilla person, you know. But this cake's good too."

You cleared your throat and gave him an awkward chuckle, grabbing a napkin and making sure to wipe any food residue that might still be on your lips. "Glad you still enjoyed it."

"Oh, I want to give you something." He said and you smiled. "Another gift, Maj? Seriously, you didn't have to get me anything—"

"Shut up. Respectfully." He added once he saw your glare. "Can we go somewhere more private?"

You laughed, pulling him towards your room. "What's this gift and why does it need to be given in private?" Jermajesty closed the door behind you and grabbed a small box from his pocket.

"Are you proposing to me?" You gasped dramatically. "Okay, get down on one knee and beg for my hand—"

"Bro, I'm not proposing. Don't be silly now."

Your laughter died down as he opened the box. In it was a simple gold necklace with a small charm— the same necklace you've been wanting to buy for months now.

"Jermajesty! Oh my god!" You grabbed the necklace and smiled up at him. "Holy shit, I thought this was sold out? How'd you get it!"

"You like it, ma?"

"Like it? I love it! Fuck, this is so sweet, Maj! Come here." You pulled him in for a hug and kissed his cheek in appreciation. Jermajesty felt his heart jump out of his chest right then. He chuckled into the hug and kissed your temple.

He took the necklace and lead you to stand in front of your mirror. Standing behind you, he carefully placed the necklace around your neck, clasping it in place. "Happy birthday, pretty."

"Thank you, Maj. Really." You turned your head to the side and felt your breath hitch at the sight of his face just inches away from yours.

"...You're really beautiful." he blurted out.

"Shut up, man." You tried to push him away, only to be pulled back in by Jermajesty grabbing your wrist and placing a soft kiss against it.

Downstairs, the party carried on as if nothing had happened. Music floated through the house. Someone had started another card game in the dining room. A few of your younger cousins were chasing each other through the hallway despite repeated warnings from the adults.

Jaafar sat in the living room with a half-finished drink in his hand, only half-listening to whatever story your uncle was telling.

His attention kept drifting toward the staircase. Toward the hallway where the two of you had disappeared minutes ago.

"She just wanted to show him something," he told himself.

Probably her room.

Maybe she was opening his gift.

Maybe—

He clicked his tongue against the inside of his cheek.

"Get a grip."

"You're zoning out."

Jaafar looked over to find your older brother dropping onto the couch beside him, balancing a paper plate with two slices of cake. "Where's Jermajesty?"

Jaafar shrugged, "Probably with y/n."

Noticing the tone in Jaafar's voice, your brother decided to investigate. "Jer's got it bad for her, huh?"

Jaafar visibly tensed up. Gripping his glass tighter, he nodded at your brother's question. "Yeah."

" I don't think he even realizes how obvious he is when it comes to her..."

"Mhm."

"I mean," Your brother chuckled. "The guy follows her around like a lost puppy. He remembers everything she says. Teases the shit out of her. Looks at her like she hung the moon... and if anyone gets too close— God help them."

Jaafar smiled faintly, choosing not to reply to that. Instead, he watched someone refill the snack bowls across the rooms, drifted his gaze towards your relatives who were playing board games, and—

"You like her too, don't you?"

Jaafar's fingers froze against his glass. "What?"

"You heard me." Your brother propped his elbows against his knees and leaned forward. "I've seen the way you look at her."

"Can we not..."

"I've known you for years, man. I know how you get when you like someone."

Jaafar sighed, leaning against the soft couch dramatically. "I didn't mean for it to happen. I– I don't plan on saying anything."

"...Because of Jer?"

Jaafar nodded. "He... He's crazy about her." There wasn't a hint of bitterness in his voice, just resignation. "I've never seen him like this. He deserves a chance."

"And you don't?"

Jaafar finally looked at your brother. "It's not about what I deserve. It's about what she wants." His gaze wandered back to the staircase. "If she chooses him then that's enough for me."

Before either of them could say another word, footsteps echoed from the second floor. Instinctively, both men looked up.

There you were. Descending the stairs with Jermajesty a step behind you. Your fingers absentmindedly brushed the necklace resting against your collarbone, unable to stop smiling every time the pendant caught the light.

Jermajesty's gaze never left you.

Jaafar watched as you looked over your shoulder to say something to Jermajesty, laughing when he replied.

Then, almost unconsciously, Jermajesty reached out and took your hand to help you down the last two steps, even though you clearly didn't need the assistance.

You didn't pull away, making Jaafar lower his eyes.

“what’s on your mind, tink?”

tink. michael started calling you that a few years back because he said you reminded him of tinker bell. you didn’t see it, yet he insisted you had a fairy-like demeanor that justified the nickname.

“everything looks so small from up here. ‘s pretty.”

you’re looking at the ground beneath you, but michael is looking at you. he thinks you’re the prettiest thing here—no neon lights or luminous fair rides could hold a candle to your glamor.

“you’re pretty.”

“you’re such a sap, mike.”

you avert your gaze from the ground to michael, to see he’s already looking at you. his stare doesn’t waver, regardless of how many times your eyes drift away from his.

“but i mean it. you look so pretty.”

he seems content just being in your presence—like he always is. he’s euphoric to just be around you, no matter what the two of you are doing.

you look away from him, but only to rest your head on his shoulder. he stills, like moving would completely disrupt your moment of serenity.

“thanks,” you whisper.

“y’don’t gotta thank me for anything.”

you stay in the same position, stock-still for a few long moments before the ferris wheel momentarily stops and it’s your turn to depart. you groan out loud because your calm was ruined, but michael doesn’t seem to mind much.

“c’mon, tink,” he grasps your hand and starts tugging you behind him.

“slow down, mike!” you struggle to keep up with his pace, given how lanky his legs are compared to yours. but, you manage to follow behind him while speed-walking.

he continues to lead you through the hefty crowds of bodies until you’re in front of the ring toss stand. luckily, there weren't any people in front of you, so the game was all yours.

“gonna win big?”

“the biggest,” his voice is unfaltering, like he’s already convinced that he’ll win.

“be my guest,” you challenge him.

you take a step back and let him assume control of the rings. initially, you assume that his attempts would be abysmal. however, you’re gravely mistaken.

nearly every ring he throws makes it onto a glass bottle. toss after toss ends in triumph, quickly securing victory.

by the end of the game, michael’s delighted with himself and you’re shocked by his achievement. “told you i was gonna win big,” he turns around to face you.

“now which plushie you want?”

you tap your chin with your pointer finger in consideration. “the elephant,” you point to an oversized blue elephant plushie.

michael turns around once more to tell the worker which stuffed animal you wanted. once it’s in his hold, he faces you, holding it out glory.

“‘s all for you, tink.”

“mike, it’s so cute!”

you take the plush elephant in one of your hands before throwing your arms around his neck, embracing him in a hug. you struggle to keep the plushie in your hand and not drop it, but you manage to maintain your grip on it. his arms wrap around your lower back, pressing your body into his.

when you pull away from him, he’s just as cheery as you. he has a dopey smile on your face, and you know you’re adorning a similar one.

still keeping the elephant in your hand, you stand on your tippy toes to press three chaste kisses to michael’s lips. you feel his smile widen against your lips midway through the second kiss.

before you’re able to completely pull back from him, his hand is on the back of your neck, and he’s pulling you towards him once again. the kiss isn’t fleeting. his tongue is swirling against yours as he pulls you impossibly closer.

one of your hands comes up to rest on his nape while the other lies flat on his chest. you pull away first, and when you do, he’s already chasing your lips once again.

he’s seeking to devour you amidst the pandemonium of the fair, and you don’t put up much of a fight. his arms tighten around your waist as if he’s trying to pull you even closer, despite the proximity already present between you two.

after the second time you pull away, michael doesn’t aim to capture your lips with his once more. he’s smiling down at you, elated and pleased.

“y’so pretty, tink.”

“mike, i think you already told me that.”

“‘n i mean it every time.”

“okay, let’s go,” michael takes hold of your hand once again, leading you to yet another portion of the carnival.

“where are we going now?”

a week later, he showed up at the house (his house, really) telling you to "get dressed, we have a wedding to go to" without so much as an explanation of his disappearance.

you were worried sick. but now you were beyond angry.

"oh, so i don't even get a decent hello from you?" you raise your eyebrow.

he must have thought this was a game, and the unseriousness in his demeanor as he steps inside the living room pisses you off. he laughs and licks his lips as he inches closer to you. hands on your waist he singsongs "cmon baby, don't be grumpy. today's supposed to be a happy day"

you lightly push his chest away, but he kept you steady.

"happy day, my ass." you retort.

he holds out a bag to your hands, a new and surely expensive dress for you to wear. "i even bought you something pretty to wear, lovey. quit complainin' and let's go" he was still grinning, thinking your little tantrum would eventually fade.

the thing is, this wasn't a tantrum.

"where have you been, michael?" you remove his hand from your waist with so much force that his smile disappears. further creating distance by pointing a finger to his chest, manicured nail pushing him away from you.

the question hung in the air. and suddenly the ceiling looked reallll interesting to him. eyes rolling, he mumbles "does it matter? you got all my gifts didn't you, baby?"

he looks at you through his thick lashes, doe eyes on full display as he works his usual charm. "what does that even have to d-" you try to explain. but his face is unchanging, no remorse at all.

"forget it, i'm not going anywhere with you." you drop the bag and start walking up the stairs. spitting out a string of curse words as the loud clacking of your heels made your disdain for him extremely known.

he took bigger strides to catch up with you and when he did, he took your wrist, stopping you in your tracks.

"today y/n–" he pleads through his teeth.

he called you by your first name. not baby, not lovey, but y/n.

"–all i'm asking today is for your cooperation. we will show up for elizabeth's wedding, then we can talk about this later." he gestures for you to take the dress in the bag.

"fine." you emulate his tone, as you grab the bag from him. "but only because it's for elizabeth"

you were now all dressed, but you were still not happy.

and it definitely showed on your face.

"for the love of god y/n, can you wipe that frown off your face? i don't want you looking all upset at the wedding" he sighs, exasperated as he opens the car door for you.

you don't give him the pleasure of a verbal response. instead, you grab the door handle and slam it shut – walking to the other side of the car instead and hopping in the vehicle.

and when you get to the venue, which apparently was just on the neverland ranch premises, you are a doll to everyone but him. you greet everyone with a warm smile and air kisses, making small talk with people he knows you hate, and introducing yourself to strangers he knows you don't care about.

he tries to grab your hand mid-conversation with a mutual friend, only for you to swat it away. and when he offers you a drink, you take one from the waiter who passes by instead.

just like that, he's absolutely invisible to you.

michael decides that he'd rather have you yell at him all day, than suffer another minute of the silent treatment.

"i'll be right back, my love" he says before walking away, even though he knows you won't respond.

as the ceremony begins, you've found yourself at your designated seat near the front. the music plays, and you watch as michael walks elizabeth down the aisle.

he's devastatingly beautiful and you hate him all the more for it. he stands by the couple for the entire ceremony, and it takes extreme focus for you not to look at him.

"i promise, beyond material possession, beyond worldly matters, to give you what is taken for granted by many. i promise you my full, undivided presence – my whole being, at all times. not merely the years we are given, but the ordinary moments that make a wonderful life, the mornings before the world wakes, the conversations that run too long, the quiet evenings when there is nothing to say. i promise that you will never have to earn my attention, compete for my affection, or wonder if you matter enough for me to stay. because love is not measured by what we provide. it is measured by how often we choose to remain."

ah.

michael genuinely feels like an idiot when he sees you holding back your tears at elizabeth's vows. he looks at you, brows furrowed, but you won't look at him back.

it is only when the guests leave, and the ranch finds its quiet, when michael has the courage to speak to you. he found you at the kitchen, pouring yourself another glass of red wine.

"i messed up big time, lovey" he genuinely doesn't know where to begin. so he starts with an apology. "i'm sorry for disappearing on you all the time" his hands are on the counter, right next to yours. but he doesn't dare touch you yet, afraid you'll retreat.

you sat yourself down on the barstool, knowing this will be a long conversation. "today at the wedding, when I was ignoring you, how did that feel?" you ask.

"it killed me" he answers truthfully.

"and that was just a few hours of your day, michael. could you handle what you put me through?" it's a question that runs a chill down his spine. your eyes are staring at him coldly, and a wave of self-loathing lands.

"why do you do it, michael? why do you keep doing this to me?" you take a swig of your wine. as if bracing yourself for the answer.

his jaw tightens. for a moment, he says nothing. because the answer sounds pathetic now that he's forced to say it out loud.

"i.... don't know."

you scoff.

"because it's easier" the answer comes so quickly that it surprises both of you.

michael closes his eyes as he continues "i know that's a terrible thing to say..." he walks closer to you, and the wine tastes bitter in your mouth. "i disappear because it's what I've always done. when things get complicated, when I don't want to explain myself, when I don't want someone seeing me at my worst...i just disappear"

you don't respond.

"and for all of my life..." he swallows. "people let me." his words hang in the air.

his voice is barely above a whisper now "i knew you were looking for me baby, i knew you were calling everyone."

your grip tightens around the stem of your glass.

"and instead of calling you back, I sent flowers." the shame on his face is unmistakable. "then a bracelet."

he lets out a breath, your silence is deafening.

"because somehow it was easier for me to spend thousands of dollars than it was to spend ten seconds picking up the phone." he continues "i think... i don't want you to see me when i'm like that y/n."

michael shakes his head, eyes glistening as he finally admits "i keep choosing my comfort over your peace of mind." the confession hangs heavily in the room.

for the first time that night, his voice breaks. "because if you disappeared on me the way i disappear on you..."

he swallows hard. "i wouldn't survive it, baby."

you look at him, long and hard. and as much as you want to forgive him, you need him to know this. "you know what the worst part was?" you began.

michael waits.

"the worst part wasn't wondering if you were okay. it was wondering why i wasn't worth the ten seconds."

the words hit him harder than anything else you've said that night.

"lovey—" "don't, michael."

his mouth closes.

"for a week..." you shake your head. "...for a week I begged people to tell me where you were." a bitter laugh escapes you as you threw your hands in the air. "and apparently everybody knew except me."

the shame on his face deepens.

"i felt stupid." your voice cracks for the first time, resolve slowly breaking as tears threaten to spill from your eyes again. "can't you understand that?"

you look away, not wanting him to see you cry. "i felt pathetic, like some crazy girlfriend chasing after a man who didn't want to be found."

"but that's not what you are–"

"–but that's what you made me feel like." you stood up to place your wine glass in the sink. "the flowers, the jewelry, i don't want any of it."

your words are soft, broken "i want the phone call, mikey. do you know how sad it is that I have to beg for something that small?" you wipe your tears with the back of your hand.

you were right.

"when you disappear, you need to remember that there's someone waiting for you to come home." your sniffles are uncontrollable. "stop filtering yourself around me, i can handle it. the good, the bad, the ugly"

michael nods, taking your words to heart.

"i can handle it because i love you"

he walks up to you from behind, wrapping his arms around your waist. his chin rests on your shoulder. you're too tired to push him away anymore. after a week of doubt, fear, and uncertainty, you melt into his touch. and as much as you were still angry, you just wanted him.

"i know. i'll be better, i promise" he whispers.

"you can't do that to me again, michael. i mean it"

"i know, lovey" you feel him nod as he softly strokes your hair.

and for now, a promise is enough. but you doubt he'll be able to keep true to it.

so for now, you nod too, because you want to believe it. you want to believe it so badly.

૮ ˶ᵔ ᵕ ᵔ˶ ა ............✎ masterlist

vote for my next work here!

author's note: that is deadass the longest dialogue i've ever written.

Michael noticed your retreating nature. You'd never leave the house and spend most of your time with Louie and Bubbles. He worried about you a lot but he knew if he pried into your life, you'd turn him away. He doesn't want to drive you away. His love for you is strong and he knows you both can make it through anything.

Since your heart to heart in his writing room, he's been trying to get more out of you. He would ask about your family to which you'd respond with a tight smile. He assumed it was a touchy subject. He would ask about your life before him to which you'd respond by flipping it on him. He would tell you about things you already sort of knew and things you didn't. He wanted to create an opening for you to speak about yourself but you never did.

You were currently sitting in a swivel chair as you listened to Michael record his lines for 'Somebody's Watching Me'. You nodded your head slowly as the beat played. A cool funky, Halloween beat that brought back memories of you and some friends carving pumpkins to it. You smiled as you closed your eyes remembering it. You missed those days; carefree memories.

"How'd that sound?" His voice made your eyes pop open as you saw him crouched in front of you.

You smiled gently before nodding. "I love it."

He laughed before lacing your fingers with his. "You've heard it before haven't you?"

Your facade cracked as a laugh slipped through you. "Yeah, it was my favorite song to play during Halloween."

He smiled before licking his lips. He stood up before walking back over to the station. He cut the sound causing you to raise your eyebrows in concern. He walked back over to you before making sure you both were eye level once more. You knew he was about to get serious by how he stared at you.

"What's wrong?" You asked as you caressed his face. He leaned into your palm.

"Tell me the story again." He murmured as he blinked slowly at you.

You bit your lip to stop yourself from smiling. You've told Michael the story of how you ended up in his arms. You told him about the minutes before you got there and even you changing your mind. The story fascinated him every time he heard it. He couldn't wait to tell your kids someday.

"You think our kids would believe it?" He asked through a laugh.

You looked off into the distance. "They'll think we're crazy."

You both laughed about it. The thought of telling your little ones that their mother fell out of the sky. Michael smiled at you as laughed. The room fell silent as he admired you. Michael had been planning your future together since the first time his heart raced for you.

"What's on your mind, angel face?" You asked as you moved a few curls from his eyes. His heart fluttered at the mention of the nickname.

Michael chewed on the inside of his lip; he wondered if he should speak his mind. He didn't want to make you uncomfortable nor did he want to scare you. "You aren't going to leave me, are you?"

The question was an elephant in your relationship. Michael was all for risks because if you didn't take risks, you'd regret it. He was afraid to create this life with you and you up and disappear. He couldn't deal with a heartbreak like that. He didn't want to have to; he'd follow you to the ends of the earth.

You cup his cheeks, pulling him closer. You place a chaste kiss on his nose. "You have nothing to worry about, Michael."

He smiled before kissing you all over your face. You learned how affectionate Michael was especially with you. He couldn't help it. "I think we should move somewhere nice to raise them, y'know?"

You nodded slowly as he spoke so optimistically about fatherhood. You laughed at how animated he became. He knew he'd be an amazing father and that only warmed your heart more. He talked about the home you would all live in. You really saw him come to life.

"I want to talk about your life. We always talk about mine." Michael mumbled letting the silence of the studio fill out the room.

You didn't know what to tell him. The thought of telling him anything from the future was a bit funny in your opinion. You didn't want to think too hard about it because you knew you would get sad. You didn't want to hide anything in your relationship though. You wanted this to work.

"It's so dull in the future. A dull chaos really." You mumbled as you twirled his curl in your finger.

"Really?" His head perked up. You nodded slowly as you think back to modern life.

"Everything just started turning mute colored. Even the parks turned brown." Michael shook his head in disgust as you giggled.

"That's stupid." He scoffed as you tried not to laugh.

"Yeah, the world is pretty…fucked up." He eyed you as you laughed. "Excuse my French."

He hummed as he lowered his head once more. Michael finished recording his part before you both went to leave. Michael held your hand tight as he guided you to the car. The ride was semi silent as you looked out the window thinking to yourself as you always did. The same inevitable thoughts.

A bright swirl of multicolored light opens as Yenti stepped through. Their hands brushing off their shoulders. Travel was daunting but they didn't mind it, especially for what they were doing. Their bare feet touch the ground as they walked closer to their sanctuary, only to be stopped by an unsuspecting person.

"Coming in late again I see." The voice of a snake. A known traitor, a deceitful one.

"What are you doing wandering around here?" Yenti asked as their eyes locked onto the figure.

The bellow of laughter echoed. "Why can't I follow my mothers youngest around?"

Yenti's eyes lowered knowing exactly who was speaking. "████████." Yenti called out to their sibling as the laughter rumbled.

"So you do remember me." The voice echoed menacingly.

Yenti's body was on guard. Their previous run ins ran through Yenti's mind. "How could I not?"

The voice hummed in satisfaction. "You've been working on something…away from others." The voice floated around Yenti but they didn't flinch.

"Not willing to share with me?" The teasing voice poked at Yenti. "Or shall Father of All Gods hear about it first?"

Yenti's body stiffened at the mere mention of their father. Father of All Gods was the creator of eight Gods. His eldest son was of mischief, his eldest daughter of treachery, his set of twins war, his next set grief, his youngest son was of apathy and lastly, Yenti the odd one out. Yenti was of empathy something the Father of All Gods knew nothing about. Conceived in a womb that only bore hatred somehow created compassion.

Yenti wasn't found out like their brothers and sisters. They were a mystery and so when they were born. There was no way to tell what kind of God they were, hence why they were named Entity. Seen as different by their siblings and cast to the side by their father. Their mother of which is rarely seen cherished Entity deeply.

"I'm allowed to work on my own things. Leave me." Yenti's voice was strong as they stormed away. They didn't want to sit there and hear another word from the treacherous snake.

The figure materialized, mischief clear on its face. A smirk deepened on the figures face as they listened to Yenti get further away. "Let's see what you're really hiding."

A snap sounded before the lights emerged once more. As it stepped through the beams of light, it was surrounded by sounds of rubber wheels over gravel. It's eyes darted around to find what could possibly drag their sibling out here every day. What was so special about earth?

There was a constant however, a man with curly hair and the smile of an angel. It knew angels, seen them, been in the presence of them and somehow he was one walking on earth. This piqued its interest, what was he doing here? There was also another constant…you. You both were nearly everywhere.

What was so special about these two humans that made Yenti so connected? It got closer to the moving car, focusing on the person gazing out the window. Your eyebrows furrowed as you realized the window grew darker. The face came face to face with you causing your head to lift in surprise. Teeth razor sharp smile back at you as you gasp and jump away.

"Naughty little Yenti." The voice laughed darkly before disappearing. "I know your secret."

Michael turned towards you before rushing over to comfort you. He assumed you dozed off while he read today's newspaper. He sat next to you and caressed your arms. "It's okay, I'm here." He cooed as he kissed your temple.

"Did—no I—" You rambled as you stared out the window. Michael hushed you as he rocked you back and forth. He peppered kisses on your face to soothe you but you couldn't get that face out of your head.

"You had a nightmare. We're almost home." He reassured you but your heart wouldn't stop beating.

What was that?

As soon as you made it home your mind began to swirl. Michael was worried as you slugged up the stairs. The phone rang causing him to go towards it thinking it was his mother or work. You felt fear and heaviness in your heart the closer you got to the bedroom. When you opened the door it was pitch black but something still felt off.

What was going on with you?

I promise we aren’t losing the plot I’m just building up the big finish

"Michael, they do not. Those people are close to press. They want to see you break!" You tried to tell him but he was stuck in his own mind.

"What if they're right?" He mumbled his hands finally lowering.

A pause, stunned by his words. "What?"

"What if I'm not good enough for you? What if we're not meant to be?" He mumbled as his energy died down.

You grasp his shoulder. "Michael that's not true. If you weren't good enough for me then I wouldn't have chose you!"

Michael stared off as he thought to himself. Your arms wrapped around his torso tightly; his heart beat loud as you lay against his back. You wish there was something you could do to steer him away from these dark thoughts. You hated those idiots who ran the tabloids, planting seeds in his mind constantly. They had gone to far interfering with your relationship.

"Michael I would never in a million years choose anyone else to be with other than you." You explained as he looked over at you with watery eyes.

He chuckled sadly. "Yeah but our labels are saying something else."

You felt your heart drop at his words. It was true people didn't want you both together. Your label said it would be horrible for your image if you got with Michael. They tried countless times to set you up with other stars to which you declined. This caused you and Michael to marry privately because while they do have you under lock and key; there's nothing they can do about legal binding like that.

Michael's label told him how to eat, sleep, and breathe. You often wondered how long you both would have to keep your relationship a secret. When a picture of you two shopping got out, you got your answer. Michael came home drained that day. All you could do was hold him tight throughout the night.

Both of your labels worked hard to keep you both apart. There were ultimatums, contracts, PR, the list goes on. You knew it was breaking Michael down. Michael hated keeping your relationship a secret. He nearly lost everything trying to go again them.

You sighed sadly as you held him tighter. You could feel him weaken as he listened to you speak. "I married you. Do you understand?" He nodded.

"I just wish they would leave us alone." He whispered as he cried into you.

You rubbed his back slowly. "I know, baby."

That night Michael was distraught. He cried until he couldn't anymore. You didn't know who crept under his skin but you were sure to find out. This was your relationship not theirs! Who were they to question how much you loved him?

Who were they to say you didn't love him? Who told them they ran anything in your life? It grinded your gears hearing people talk about your husband negatively anyway. You had to think of a way, any way to make him feel better. You wanted him to know that he is the only one you want in this life and the next.

You kissed his forehead before going to the study to write. You ran through dozens of lyrics. You didn't know how to put what you felt on paper. Your head began to hurt trying so hard to push this out. It usually came to you but this time it wouldn't, not if you forced it.

"I can't give up." You whispered.

You worked tirelessly for hours before it finally clicked for you. Michael was your heart, your everything. He saw through you on your toughest days. When you had your guard up around them he fought to break them down. He knew he wanted you and only you.

"I don't wanna have to go where you don't follow." You whispered to yourself as the melody kept playing in your head.

Your writing grew quicker as you wrote down what came to mind. Memories of you both throughout the years helped your progress. You always knew Michael for his passion and he put that towards your friendship and relationship. You had to return the feeling because you wanted him to know just how much you loved him.

While Michael slept you kept working. It took a while but you felt the flow of the music within you. You quickly gathered what you had and went to the studio. You had a plan for your upcoming event. Your label wouldn't be able to interfere.

"No, run it again." You said as your finger twirled. The producer nodded before starting the melody over again.

You took a deep breath before singing. Everything comes to you at once. Your feelings for Michael along with the memories you shared with him. Your voice was strong and carried each note beautifully. The producer watched you intensely, trying to see if he needed to add any input.

Take my love, I'll never ask for too much

Just all that you are, and everything that you do

Michael spotted you from across the room. Your smile was something to die for. His heart swelled as you laughed with other artists. He had to talk to you and he wouldn't leave without doing so. He inched closer and closer until he was talking to a colleague right next to you.

Little did Michael know, you were buzzing to talk to him. Your nerves were high the closer he got to you. When you both turned around you nearly knocked champagne on each other. You both laughed before talking to each other. It felt like you had known each other forever.

That's when Michael knew he liked you.

I won't hold it back again, this passion inside

Can't run from myself, there's nowhere to hide

Today was the day you'd tell Michael how you felt about him. You were always so closed up in yourself. You were too scared to tell him in fear of being rejected. He was an amazing man and you found yourself thinking about him often. More often than you'd like to admit.

"Michael, can we talk?" You asked as you played with your own fingers.

"Of course." He replied before walking next to you.

You took multiple deep breaths before blurting out the words. "I like you."

"I like you too but you know that." He chuckled but his own heart was beating rapidly. He didn't want to misunderstand the situation.

You huffed, planting your feet in their spot. "No like, I really like you as in I can't stop thinking about you."

His eyebrows raised. "It sounds crazy but feel free to tell me if you're uncomfortable."

Michael chuckled at how shy you were but thought it was funnier how you assumed he'd reject you. "You haven't noticed have you?"

You look at him in confusion. "Noticed what?" Your hand placed on your hip.

"I've liked you since the day I first saw you." He smiled as he caressed your cheek.

"Are you serious?" You gasped but your eyes never leave his.

He nodded slowly. "Very serious."

That was the start of your relationship.

But don't make me close one more door

I don't wanna hurt anymore

Both of you agreed to keep things on the down low. You didn't want anyone to ruin the time you spent together. You had careers and images to uphold, though Michael would leave all that behind if it meant he got to love you out loud. You didn't want him to give up something he loved and worked so hard for; it was initially you who came up with the idea. You didn't want to take any risks, not yet anyway.

Stay in my arms if you dare

Must I imagine you there

Michael was sick of being a secret, sick of people trying to take you away from him. He wanted to love you out loud for everyone to see but you were thinking about the repercussions. Michael didn't want to hear that anymore. He was sick of others thinking they could have you. He was sure damn sick of your label trying to play matchmaker too.

"Michael, I know it's hard but it's only—"

"Until when? I've been more than patient, trust me I have but I can't keep going on like this." His voice pleading as he clutched your hands in his.

Your eyes squinted. "What are you saying?"

"This relationship needs a change. I don't ever want to hide who I love from the world." His eyes watered as you looked at him like you were begging for a lost love. You shook your head softly.

"You're not hiding me, Michael." You whispered trying to hold back the lump in your throat.

His eyes don't waver. "But that's what it feels like."

After that you and Michael took a break from each other. Remembering this brought tears to your eyes. You put your heart into this song. This was for everything you had been through from the start to right now. You had to show him that you cared about him and weren't afraid to be with him.

Don't walk away from me

I have nothing

Nothing

NOTHING

If I don't have you

You watched Michael walk away from you countless times but nothing hurt more than right then. You both had went your separate ways for weeks. You honestly contemplated letting him go fully when you saw him smiling on stage to accept an award. You knew you were holding him back from someone better; someone who would appreciate and love him out loud without their life being on the line. You had finally decided this was the right thing to do.

Will our memories survive?

One I can hold onto

"Pardon?" Michael was more distraught than confused. His head moved forward, his curls falling. Maybe he heard you wrong.

"It's best if we go our separate ways." You repeated as you held your award close to your chest.

"That's not what I want…" He told you as he stepped closer but you stepped away.

"But it's what you need, Michael. I can't provide you the life you're wishing for." Your voice was shaky as you gripped your award.

Michael's eyes wavered as the reality of the situation set in. You were breaking up with him. You were leaving him all alone. Was breaking up really solving anything? Would this help either of you in the long run?

"You don't know that! You're making this decision all on your own." He expressed as his hands spread out.

"I don't want to fight. This was all some kind of mistake…we're better off—"

"Don't tell me how to feel!" His voice raised as you froze.

He huffed, moving his curls away. "Don't tell me that this wouldn't work. Don't try to drop everything we've built together over some people who think they can control our lives." He spoke softly as he stepped closer to you.

You stepped back but this time, he didn't stop walking. He wasn't planning on letting you go. He wasn't planning on finding someone else because he knew you made his heart race. You loved him and saw him for who he was. No one else—you.

"I didn't create space because I didn't want to be with you. I created space so we could find a way around them and I apologize for not communicating that to you but—" He sucked in a large amount of air. "Don't throw this away."

You stared at him feeling like you could finally breathe. Michael expressed his feelings to you when you thought everything was over. You were ready to do whatever your label asked you to. You were willing to throw your happiness away if it meant he would be happy. You could feel a lump in your throat form.

Michael pulled you into his chest as you cried. "Don't say anything like that again." He mumbled as he kissed the crown of your head.

Deciding to stay together was the easy part. The hard part was yet to come.

Your love

I'll remember

Forever

You both kept the relationship a secret long enough. Michael couldn't take it anymore, he wanted you in every way possible. He proposed to you on the ranch, away from the public eye. He made it as romantic as possible in hopes of you saying yes. How could you possibly say no to a man like this?

You jumped on him before he could get up. You both rolled on the grass, filling the space up with laughter. You kissed him multiple times as you repeatedly said yes. He smiled brightly as he held you tight, not wanting to let you go. This was the happiest he had been in a long time. You laid on top of him as both your laughter died down.

"I love you." He whispered softly as your eyes watered.

Your hands hold his cheeks as you bring him closer. "I love you."

You both shared a passionate kiss on the soft grass. A memory etched into your minds for the rest of your days. A memory that made all of it worth it. You'd do it countless times if that meant you would get to marry him in the end. "Let's get married. Away from all this."

His suggestion made your eyebrows rise in shock. "Really? You want that?"

"I want anything if it has to do with you." You rolled your eyes before playfully hitting his chest.

"Sappy." You joked as he smiled. "Only if it's for you." He replied.

Your nose crinkled as you think about a secret wedding. "You know what? Yeah, let's do it."

His eyes widened as he stared at you. He propped himself up on his elbows. "You're serious?" You nodded.

"You really want to do this?" He asked for more clarification.

You shrugged as you traced a pattern on his button up. "As long as I'm with you I'm happy. They don't need to see everything right?"

He hugged you tight basking in the moment. "I'll make this the best wedding you'll ever have."

"Michael, this is going to be the only wedding I'll ever have." You told him but it only made him smile harder.

Don't walk away from me

I have nothing

NOTHING

The day of your wedding arrived and you were a nervous wreck. You didn't go to the courthouse but had the wedding on an extremely private property. One that you owned but didn't really use. Your mother tried to console you as you paced your dressing room. You were nearly hyperventilating as you wiped your sweaty hands on your dress.

"Baby, you're gonna give yourself a heart attack or something. Sit down." Your mama said with worry in her voice. Her hand outstretched towards you.

"I can't mama!" You threw your hands out in frustration. "What if he decides he doesn't love me anymore?"

She looked at you funny. "What if he realizes I'm not good enough for him? I can't stop my label or his from doing something!" You panicked.

She cut her eyes as she looked elsewhere. Your mother met Michael a handful of times and each time he's been smitten with you. Your mama has seen him look for you in a crowd of people that were only looking at him. She was honestly surprised when he told her about wanting to marry you. Hell, she's been more surprised that you both didn't do this sooner.

"Child, he's been smitten with you since he met you." She waved you off as your jaw dropped.

"Mama!" You exclaimed as she shook her head.

"I'm serious! He has loved you through all of this. It would be idiotic to do all this and say no after all this back and forth." She rolled her eyes at you making you sigh.

Your mother ended up going to find Michael. When he heard how worried you were, he got worried. He jogged over to the door that held you behind it. A soft knock sounded making you whip your head towards it. Your hand held the knob, ready to open it.

"Don't open it. It's me." His voice sounded through the door.

"Still superstitious I see." You laughed as you tried to stop yourself from crying in a panic.

He hummed. "Why're you crying, mama?"

You bit your lip nervously. "I'm scared, Michael. I'm scared we're being hasty and then you'll realize you don't love me like you say you do."

Michael rolled his eyes. "Do you love me?"

Your eyebrows scrunched. "Of course I do."

He laughed. "Then that's all I need."

Your heart rate eased slightly. He was still your loving fiancé. Always trying to find ways to ease the situation. Always trying to calm you down. This is the kind of man you wanted to marry. Forget what everyone else has said, he's yours.

"I love you." You mumbled against the door.

He smiled before replying. "Then marry me."

The wedding went off without a hitch. You were now Mrs. Jackson. You both couldn't believe you did this behind closed doors. No paparazzi, no media, just you him and select family members. You were beyond happy.

You took your headphones off and wiped your eyes. The producer looked at you with his thumbs up. You sighed happily knowing this would save your marriage. This would fix everything because you wouldn't lose your husband twice.

The song was finished and you'd be set to perform it at the awards ceremony. Your manager specifically wanted you to sing, 'I Wanna Dance with Somebody'. It would be great for everyone to see how happy go lucky you are but you couldn't do it. You couldn't in good conscience sing about that when something deeper was happening in your life. It was now or never.

"Don't forget to smile." Your manager told you. You wanted to roll your eyes.

"I never do." You mumbled as you shook off your nerves.

Usually you'd talk to Michael to help with your nerves but not this time. Your singing had to be raw with emotion. If you were nervous, scared, all of it had to be seen. After today everything you kept a secret would be for the world to pick at. Eyes were on you tonight.

You were introduced as you walked through with your arms up, waving at everyone. You blew kisses to everyone as you made your way to the mic. Everyone cheered loving your appearance. Little did they know your heart was beating as if it would run out of your chest. You hoped that this could change everything.

You turned to the DJ and pointed. The piano began playing, your manager's eyebrows furrowed. You licked your lips as your eyes darted around the crowd for Michael. You didn't show up at the same time so you had no idea where he was sitting. Your eyes locked onto his as he watched with his sunglasses on.

"This is for someone very important to me." You said shakily into the microphone.

Everyone clapped and smiled. They had no idea who this song could be for. You were very private in their eyes. No lover, no other friends.Everyone was completely out of the loop. Exactly as you liked it.

"He's been my rock for a very long time and I hope this proves how much I love—" You froze as his eyes bore into yours.

You weren't the best at speeches sometimes but seeing how he looked tonight did something to you. This would make or break your marriage. You knew it and he knew it. Maybe he didn't but it meant more to you than anything. He was worth everything and then some.

"Listen, I've been married for a while now and this song is for my husband." Everyone mumbled amongst themselves.

Your manager tried to get them to cut the song but this was your show—your moment. Michael watched you with wide eyes. Were you really doing this? Were you serious about coming out like this? How would you both deal with the repercussions. He honestly didn't care about them either.

His smile grew as the instrumental kept playing. You locked eyes with him as you blew him a quick kiss. Your mouth opened before you started singing to mouth a quick 'I love you'. You started off soft and slow as the music flowed throughout the building. Michael's eyes didn't leave your figure as you stood behind the microphone.

The tempo picked up as you sang. Michael didn't blink nor did he move. Everyone wondered who the mystery man was that you dedicated this song to. The thought of you secretly getting married shook the room. Little did they know the two biggest stars became one.

"Don't—make—me—close one more door!" You belted as your hand outstretched towards Michael. His eyes began to water as he watched how passionately you sang.

Michael got up out of his seat and clapped loudly for you. He was the loudest in the room in fact. His sunglasses blocked most of his emotions but you knew your husband and you knew that you did the right thing. Michael made his way on stage while you were waving at everyone who cheered for you. Michael stepped up each step with poise before he stood in front of you.

You smiled at him as he did the same. You could see his nose was a little red as you giggled. You held him by his elbows as he whispered in your ear, "Are you sure?" You smiled widely before facing him.

"Do you love me?" You asked him as he looked at you—dumbfounded."

"Of course I do." He replied as you kissed his cheek. "Then that's all I need."

He laughed softly before pulling you into him. You held the mic up to your mouth, ready to announce the biggest news of your career. "Everyone meet the love of my life!" You shouted into the mic.

Was management angry? Of course they were! You're married to an extremely influential man. They could use this but you won't let them. This was purely love not a business transaction. You loved Michael for all that he is and he loved you just the same.

It was you and Michael against the world and nothing could change that.

The way his fingers circled your clit. Or how deep he managed to get inside of you. But no matter how hard you tried to copy his moves, you just couldn’t… what’s the word?… Cum.

So, each time, you would feel unsatisfied, sticky, and wet. You need more. Who would be better to ask other than the man who started this? You couldn’t come up with an answer.

And so, here you are, sitting on Michaels bed, both of you watching Peter Pan. Well, him more so than you. You sigh, not sure how to approach the topic. Michael looks over to you, eyebrows furrowed. “Is something wrong?”

You shift your gaze from the TV to him. “Huh? Oh, y-yeah.” You stutter. “Are you sure? Looks like you have something on your mind.” He chuckles softly. You mentally groan; of course, he knew you had something on your mind. He definitely wouldn’t be letting this go anytime soon.

“Uh well- I just, I’m not sure how to say this-“ You ramble before getting cut off by Michael saying your name sternly. “Just say it. You know you can tell me anything.” He says, his hand moving to your thigh.

You sigh once again. “I need you.” Your face grows warm with embarrassment. “Oh?” His eyebrows raise in surprise. ‘Thank God’ he thinks to himself.

Ever since he showed you how to masturbate, he couldn’t get enough. The way your pussy glistened, the way you moaned, the way your hips jerked up when he found your G-spot.

The thought about it alone makes him hard. “The sane way I showed you how to pleasure yourself?” You nod.

“Every time I try to pleasure myself, I can’t cum.” You whine. Michael can’t help but chuckle. You’re so cute.

Next thing you know, your pants and panties are gone, somewhere in his room. He’s behind you, just like the last time. Your sitting between his legs, your legs spread open.

He moves his left hand to your thigh, moving his right hand down to you pussy, spreading your wetness around before having his middle finger rub your clit.

You moan softly, your legs already trying to close, thighs clenching.

“Feels good?” He asks, voice low in your ear. You nod rapidly, eager for more.

He continues to rub your clit before tracing your pussy with his hands, then tracing your slit with his middle finger again. “Mikey.” You whine out. “I need more… please.”

“Patience, sweet girl.” He says. Fingers moving to your clit, your folds, then moving back to your slit repeatedly. You whine out once again, from pleasure and from Michaels teasing.

“Just a greedy little thing…” he says, moving his hand from your thigh to your breast, massaging it. “Quit teasin’ me…” you whine out once again.

Michael finally listens to your wishes, sticking a finger inside of you, slowly thrusting his finger in and out of you.

You moan a bit louder in satisfaction, finally getting what you want, and in pleasure.

Soon, Michael inserts another finger inside of you, now picking up his pace. Your moans are now coming continuously, legs slightly trembling. “You wanna cum?” He asks condensingly.

You nod, your pussy throbbing around his fingers. Feeling the pleasure inside of you continue to build up inside of you, and so, you cum.

Finally. After so long you’re finally able to cum. Your mouth hung open, a silent cry escaping from you. As your orgasm passed, your head fell back on his chest.

But then, Michaels fingers resumes his previous actions. Your head snaps up before looking back at him. “Mikey, what- what are you doing?” You say, bucking your hips back, doing your best to escape his touch.

“But isn’t this what you wanted?” He asks, his fingers rubbing your clit in a rapid pace, his fingers following the same pace.

“I-I just-“ You cut yourself off with a moan. “Hm? Finish your sentence for me.”

“I just wanted to cum!”

“And Im gonna make sure you do. Over and over and over and over again.”

You whine, your head turning left and right. “Please, I-I can’t.” Your legs closing around his hands. “Open your legs.” He says, leaving no room for an argument.

You follow his orders, your legs opening. “There you go.” He says, pressing a kiss to the side of your head.

You moan, feeling something different build up inside of you, compared to when your orgasm would normally approach.

“What, I- somethings wrong. I- ah! I have to pee.” You moan, your hips jerking up.

Michael smirks, he knows what your body is about to do, you’re gonna squirt. “Sh sh” He says, pinning your hips down.

Then, it happens, you squirt. A gush of liquid comes out of you, quite literally squirting into the air. Michaels movements slowing down a bit.

“There you go baby.” He murmurs. As you come down your high, your chest rises up and down rapidly. “Thank you…” you phant out.

“ ‘Thank you?’ “ He questions. “You’re not done yet, baby.” He chuckles, moving to go in front of you on his knees.