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[Sophie | Alex]

It had been a month since they had married and now they were going to be reunited since she had stayed behind in Paris for Paris fashion week with Delphine and Alex had gone on with the boys to do some shows with Willa and Noah. It had been hard, being apart the first few weeks of their marriage if she was being honest but they made it work with lots of facetime calls and things of that nature. Finally though, they were headed back to Baltimore on a flight from Paris, Delphine incredibly tired and curled up on her mother’s lap. Once they landed in Baltimore a cab drove them to the farm and she wasn’t sure if Alex was already home as she got there and carried the sleeping child in her arms and yawned herself. “Babe?” she called out seeing, if anyone was home.

After a couple days in post-married bliss, it was a rough cut being off on tour without Sophie and Noah and Willa tagging along with him and the boys. Alex longed for any day off, just to get in some nap time while the little ones napped so he was awake and energized enough to do the shows. He loved being on tour and doing the shows, but this time he was really happy at the prospect of getting home and being reunited with the rest of the family. He'd gotten back to their Baltimore home a few hours prior, had taken Noah and Willa to check on the animals before they had dinner and he put them to bed early. Thankfully, they were really sleepy. He was just relaxing on the couch with a random movie on when he heard the door and moments later Sophie was greeted by their dogs. He got up and moved through the living room, towards the hall where Sophie still was. "Hi, baby," he greeted her, a bright smile on his lips. He caught Delphine sleeping in her arms and held his hands out. "I can take her, so you can take shoes and coat off," he offered.

When the dogs greeted her, she pet them as best as she could without waking up Delphine who was exhausted from traveling. Plus, she knew she had been missing her siblings and her father tons since they had been doing separate things. Then Alex came around the corner and she smiled seeing her husband in person, she had missed him far more than she wanted to admit out loud, but she was sure he knew that without her even saying it. “Hi babe.” she said softly, not wanting to wake the almost two-year-old in her arms. When he offered to take her, she shifted the sleeping girl into his arms. “She’s exhausted fell asleep towards the end of the flight and woke up when we landed and fell back to sleep so I think if she wakes again she’ll be incredibly cranky.” Which she knew would be the case in a lot of ways as she started shrugging off her coat and shoes. “I’m so tired too if I’m honest. These last few weeks,” she sighed out. “Good time but.. I missed just us all being together.”

Sophie looked tired and Alex was just happy to have her home. They'd get some time for just them as a family now and it was a really nice change from being on tour and, well, separated. He carefully took their youngest into his arms and for a moment she looked like she was gonna stir and wake up, but then she settled into his embrace and dozed back off. Alex smiled at her, he had missed her terribly, only having two of their kids was the most logical thing but it also always felt like something (or someone) was missing. He leaned in to peck Sophie's lips with a grin on his own before pulling back and nodding towards the stairs. "I'll put her down in her room, I'll be right back." It really didn't take long to put the little girl down and as he emerged from the room, he almost expected Sophie to have made her way to their bed to get comfortable.

She was exhausted if she was honest, traveling with kids, even just one being the youngest was tiring, even if Alex had both of their oldest kids who could be a handful. Easily their youngest settled into Alex’s arms and he pecked her lips and smiled at him that he was so helpful with getting their daughter to bed. As she got comfy, she pet the dogs again wanting to give them some attention before she started up the stairs and meeting him as he was coming out of Delphine’s room. “I was just heading up to our room.” she said softly. “Did you want to join me or were you going to go back downstairs and I can meet you downstairs?” she asked figuring whatever would be best but she wanted to spend some time with him after weeks apart.

"Hi," Alex chuckled softly when they met just outside of Delphi's room in the hallway. "Depends, you look tired, so do you want to just lay down in bed and rest some?" he questioned. "I have to turn the tv off, grab some water but then we can meet up her." They could also watch what he had been watching downstairs, but Sophie looked so tired, he figured their bed would be the better option.

“Hi baby.” She smiled. “I am tired.” Admitting before glancing at him. “But I honestly wanted to spend time with my husband after not seeing you for weeks.” She said. “Being apart sucks.” She admitted out loud because it did, so much. “So if you want to grab two waters I’ll get the bed set up and we can hang out in bed and be comfy.” Given how big and spacious their bed was.

A soft chuckle left Alex's lips. "I wasn't gonna go back downstairs if you weren't gonna come join me," he told her. She was right, being apart sucked but he was gonna focus on the weeks of being together they had in front of them. "I'll be back in a minute," Alex hummed and once again leaning in with the intention to peck her lips but he got a little bit distracted when he realized how much he'd missed her lips on his, so he let the kiss linger a little longer.

She was looking forward to being back together for the next few weeks as a family, wanting that time together. “Okay.” she said as he leaned in and the kiss turned a little longer than she was expecting and giggled into the kiss after a few seconds and finally broke away. “I’ll see you in a few minutes I’m not going anywhere.” she said as she headed into their bedroom. She changed into comfortable pajamas and pulled back the blankets before grabbing the remote and hopping into bed and getting herself comfortable and leaning into the thick row of pillows waiting for Alex.

He smiled when the kiss eventually broke again. "You better not," he murmured with a chuckle before heading downstairs. He turned off the tv first, made sure the lights were off before heading into the kitchen. Penny and Percy were following him and he raised his brows as he grabbed two bottles of water and found the dogs sitting in front of him looking expectingly. "You want some treats? It's not time for your dinner yet," he told them before finding the dog treats to give them, and the rest of the pack some of them until he eventually headed back upstairs where he found Sophie getting comfortable in their bed. "The dogs thought me coming in the kitchen meant it's time for their dinner," Alex chuckled as he put one of the bottles beside Sophie and then moved around to slip into bed with her.

“What am I going to do sneak out a window?” she teased with a laugh shaking her head. Once she was comfortable in bed she was just waiting for Alex as she flipped through the different streaming channels they had looking for something to watch. When he finally got upstairs she laughed, “The dogs always think it’s time to eat, they’re dogs they’re hungry even when they just ate.” she pointed out. “Thank you.” she said about her bottle of water and he slipped into bed. “Did you eat?” she asked now that he mentioned food even if it was for the dogs eating.

"I don't know, just saying I'm glad you're here now I don't want you to go again," he said before heading off downstairs. The dogs followed when he returned to the bedroom. "I mean, I can't blame them for always being hungry," Alex chuckled as he crawled into bed. "I had a little bit when Willa and Noah had dinner. They were very determined on me having dinner with them. How about you, have you eaten?"

She laughed, “If I didn’t want to be here, I would have stayed you realize and that’s crazy given we just got married and I want to be here with my /husband/.” she pointed out. “No, I didn’t eat, I was more worried about flying with Delphine by myself and anyone seeing us and taking photos and my anxiety and making sure if she got hungry.” she admitted so she hadn’t really worried about food or anything other than the soda she had gotten on the plane. “Oh, and the snack pack they passed out on the plane but not like dinner.”

Once he was in bed, Alex shifted to lay on his side close to Sophie and he raised his eyebrows a little. "You're gonna need dinner," he told her. "Should've said that before I got into bed." A chuckle left his lips as he reached over to drape his arm over her and bring his hand up to her cheek. "You made it alright, yes? I knew you'd get here safe and sound."

“I know I’ll get something once I unwind a bit.” she said because she knew she wouldn’t pass up something to eat and that they would have something in the fridge. “I know but you know how I am always anxious when traveling with the kids, it was easier with just one by myself I’ll admit but I’m always worried if someone gets too close or in our faces with a camera. Delphine was a sweetie so calm.” she pointed out because she had been amazing and made it a lot easier. “Slept so much of it think the time change and getting her up extra early wiped her out.”

"I can cook you something," he offered. But he was very happy to just lay with her for a little bit. "Well then she was much better than our other two," Alex chuckled. "Noah was waving at everyone and saying hi and I think Willa was trying to tell everyone about our trip on the boat. She wouldn't stop talking." Which was adorable, but also kind of exhausting, and Alex wasn't sure how much he wanted her to share about their whole time off. "Thankfully she ended up talking to Jack the whole flight."

“If you want but if not I can get myself something in a little bit.” She said because she didn’t mind honestly she didn’t want him to feel like he had to. A laugh left her lips. “Noah is just a confident little king that wants to be friends with everyone which maybe we should teach him safety things.” She admitted. “Oh I’m sure jack loved that when I know he loves to sleep a ton he didn’t end up telling her to just shut up because like that wouldn’t surprise me if I’m honest.” She admitted though she knew he also wouldn’t want to piss Alex off either.

"You know I don't mind cooking for you," Alex offered. He shifted to settled down more comfortably and lean against a propped-up pillow. "He was trying to be very polite. And Jack did look at me like he wanted me to safe him, which I didn't," he told her with a grin. "But he didn't tell her to shut up either. I did hear him tell her he was there though," he laughed and shook his head. "So how was fashion week?"

“I know but I don’t want you to think you /have/ to you had a long day too.” she pointed out. “Glad that he was being polite but was in distress from having Willa talking to him the whole flight.” she laughed. “Kids don’t care if you were there they want you to know how they thought of it.” she laughed softly shaking her head. “I can imagine if he told her to shut up you would have punched him.” she said. “Fashion week was amazing, so so amazing.” she admitted.

A grin spread on Alex's lips and he tried to stay serious as he shook his head. "I wouldn't have punched him. He was doing better to let her tell him all about it though." He liked to deny it, but Willa was so much like him in a lot of ways and he didn't exactly like telling a story and realizing the other person isn't interested in hearing it, either. "Yeah? So you had a good time? I did see a few pictures. You looked stunning."

“You’re telling me if he turned around and told Willa to shut up and she got all pucker lipped and cried you wouldn’t punch him?” she raised a brow at him? Not that she thought Jack could actually be that cruel to their kids because he was a big kid himself, he might if he got drunk to an older person who pissed him off or something but not their kids. “I had so much fun, sat near Anna Wintour which was both amazing and scary as fuck.” she admitted, “She’s so intimidating… but I felt so hot in that outfit but powerful. I actually asked Louis Vuitton to keep it because I loved that outfit.” she said. “No clue when I could wear it again but I don’t care.”

[Sophie | Alex]

Alex thought, since he'd gotten married before and being with Sophie already felt so much like they were a married couple anyway, he'd be perfectly fine but when February 15th came, he woke up with his stomach fluttering. Rian and Savannah had made their way over to England right after Alex had told them there was a date to get married and in the last couple days, the rest of the boys and his parents had gotten into town too. Sophie's parents had picked up the kids the night before so that Sophie and Alex were free to get ready for their appointment and head out there without having to fuss about the little ones. It was still early when Alex woke up and he rolled over in bed until his body found Sophie. The alarm hadn't gone off yet, so he knew there was no rush in getting up, not yet anyway and he was glad they didn't have to be there super early. This gave them a little time to almost sleep in. He didn't check the time though as he shifted more against Sophie, arm draping over and wrapping around her, face nuzzling into her shoulder. He smiled, half asleep still, when he felt her moving a little bit. "Mmh, g'mornin'," he mumbled, pressing a tired kiss against the back of her shoulder.

You would have thought that Sophie wouldn’t have been so nervous going to bed the night before. Not that she thought Alex was going to back out or she suddenly wasn’t going to go through with it, not at all but she had tossed and turned her nerves still eating away at her that she was getting married nearly four years and three kids later to the man that meant the world to her. Their friends had made it into town at different times and were all excited to celebrate with them. The boys would be going with them, and their partners and parents to the courthouse to get married where afterwards they’d have a dinner with their parents and kids before having a crazy party filled planned night out with the friends under the guise of Sophie’s birthday. Before they’d slip away for a few days for honeymoon for the two of them. She felt his body move and wrapped around her his lips on her shoulder as she hummed her eyes not opening. “Morning baby.” She hummed sleepily. She turned a little. “I’m gonna be your wife today.” She said softly.

Alex smiled as she hummed and turned a little bit. His arm tugging her in a little closer. "I can't wait," he murmured, turning his head a bit to press another kiss to her skin, finding the side of her neck this time before resting his head back on the pillow. "You sleep okay?" He asked before yawning a little bit. He had noticed her tossing and turning before he had fallen asleep. He wasn't quite ready to fully wake and get up yet, so he settled for cuddling her and enjoying this moment being curled up before starting the very planned out day. "Is it bad luck to share a bed the night before your wedding?" He asked after a moment, chuckling softly. "Wouldn't have wanted to wake up without you today though.."

He pulled her in and she snuggled down a bit into his embrace. His lips trailed her skin again and she sighed happily. “I can’t either. No cold feet?” She asked “I kind of tossed and turned. Nervous excitement.” She said she had a cute little white dress picked out for the day. “I mean you’re not supposed to see the bride before the wedding so sharing the bed the night before pretty sure that’s a no. Let alone no sex before the wedding.” She teased. “But I’m glad we stayed together too.” It wasn’t like they did things the conventional way either so what did it matter about old traditions.

He was nervous for sure, but it was more of a tingling, giddy feeling than anything that would make him feel uncomfortable. "No cold feet," he confirmed. He really didn't care much about the traditional way of doing things and he was lucky enough Sophie was willing to do things unconventionally with him. "No sex before the wedding?" He repeated, "And here I thought I could get in your pants before we head out," he teased, laughing softly before pressing one more kiss against the back of her shoulder. "We have a long day ahead of us today."

“Good.” She said when he said no cold feet because that was all that mattered. She didn’t care for the conventional way either thankfully they made it work, after all they had three kids before getting even engaged, let alone married and this worked for them. “Well, that could be your intention this morning.” She quipped, “and while it’s not recommended, I’m sure I wouldn’t have said no buttttt.” She dragged out since he said they had a long day. “We do which means we’re probably gonna pass out tonight as soon as we’re done celebrating.”

"What, getting in your pants?" He grinned slighty, his arm sliding down a bit so he could rest his hand against her hip instead of having it wrapped tightly around her. "Do we have time for that?" Alex questioned, nuzzling into her slightly before humming softly and sliding his hand up her side and then around her again, pressing himself against her slightly. "We have to be up relatively early tomorrow too for our trip," he said. He was looking forward to getting a few days for just the two of them to celebrate each other.

“Yes, I mean you’ve never been worried before but if you want to hold off until our wedding night or well maybe the next day.” Given how tired they might be after dinner with their parents and kids and celebrating with friends and having to be up early for travel. “When has time ever stopped you?” She rolled her eyes. Feeling him press up against her side. “We will but how nice will skiing in France be?”

"Time's never stopped me but I also figured we didn't want to be late to our own wedding appointment," Alex chuckled. He shifted, pushing himself up and moving so he could hover over her with a grin playing on his lips.  "It'll be a lot of fun. I'm looking forward to having a good time with you there," he hummed, leaning down a little then and letting his lips find hers in a soft kiss.

“Mmm okay, okay. But no complaining if I’m too tired tonight and you don’t get your wife in bed.” She said chuckling softly as he shifted and moved over to hover over her, but she figured it was just him being playful at this point. “It’s gonna be so much fun the place has a heated pool with these massive glass windows it’s gonna be gorgeous.” She said as he kissed her and she hummed against his lips. “Well since we’re awake I guess we should start getting ready.”

"We're getting a couple days, just you and me. I'm not worried about not finding the time to get you in bed," he smirked slightly as he shifted to hover over her. "So, I'm getting to hit the slopes with my /wife/ and then get to hang out with her in the pool? I'm so lucky." Alex kissed her softly before they were speaking again and he kissed her again and again in between. "Are you bringing one of your tiny bikinis?" He chuckled, before letting one of the kisses linger a little bit longer and for a moment, he really did consider squeezing in a little morning quickie before getting up finally, but then their alarm went off and he groaned softly as he broke their kiss. "Okay, okay, yeah we should get up and start getting ready." And get a cup or two of coffee hopefully, he thought as he shifted off of her to get up and out of bed.

“Not even our wedding day?” She raised her brow. “WOW someone is getting old.” She teased. “Yep, the slopes and the nice large, heated pool all to ourselves.” The place she had found to rent was beautiful and stunning. “Oh, I’m bringing a few of those tiny bikinis but night time swimming is going to be strictly no clothes.” She hummed softly. When they kissed her stomach flipped a little bit before the alarm went off and she knew they needed to get ready. “Alright I’m gonna go take a shower.” Once he was off of her and she slipped off of the bed sliding out of her nightgown and padding across the floor naked and into the bathroom.

Alex laughed when she raised a brow at him. "Of course I'd be happy to get laid on our wedding day, but we're gonna have a long night, we're gonna party and if we end up being too tired for anything to happen I'm not gonna think anything bad of it," he explained. He didn't think they'd be too tired to be honest, but he still wasn't going to put any pressure on it. That wasn't them anyway. "Oh, so at nighttime it's skinny dipping, during the day it's tiny bikinis?" He chuckled softly before taking a moment to kiss her. The alarm disturbed them and anything that could've progressed further and so he shifted off of her and climbed out of bed. He groaned softly when Sophie padded off to the bathroom, fully naked and he was tempted to just follow after her, but they wouldn't really get ready then anyway. So instead, he grabbed sweatpants and a t-shirt to put on before slipping out of the bedroom and downstairs. The kitchen lay empty but the pot of coffee waiting on the counter told him either Rian or Zack were awake already. He found a cup of coffee and let the dogs out before heading back upstairs with a cup of coffee for Sophie as well.

“Okay I’m just saying don’t complain if you can’t say you got laid on your wedding night.” She teased. Especially depending on how much they drank. “Pretty much people could walk by the windows and see unless you’re okay with me skinny dipping in daylight and those possibilities.” She said with a shrug. Sophie took a nice shower getting herself extra clean before walking out and putting a thin white silk robe over her wet skin that clung to her body, her damp blonde hair hanging down around her shoulders as she walked out and saw that Alex had returned and he had a cup of coffee for her too. “Thanks.” She said taking a sip of the coffee and setting it down and opening one of her jewellery boxes and putting in some simple diamond earrings into her ears.

"Let's hope nobody's gonna just walk by the windows," he murmured. He let Sophie get showered and smiled when he came back and she walked out in a bathrobe that clung to her body. "You're welcome." Alex leaned in to steal another kiss from her lips before heading for the closet and grab the suit he was gonna put on. "I'll go wake Jack and get ready there, give you some time to get ready, yeah?" He offered. There was a knock on the open door and Alex glanced over to find Annie standing in the door. "Morning. Do you need help getting ready?" She asked as Alex slipped past her to find the guest room Jack was staying in and kick him out of bed so he'd get ready too.

“Well it’s a private property but still on a ski resort people could ski on by so if you want them to see my naked body I’ll go naked the whole time inside and take the risk.” She teased. “Yeah that would be good, I want to surprise you in my dress.” He hadn’t seen it. When Annie poked her head in. “That’d be great actually come on in we can get dressed together.” She said knowing Alex was going to go get dressed in the room jack was sleeping in and get him up and ready. Grabbing her dress from the closet she was happy Annie helped her slip into the laced-up lingerie underneath, the one good thing about one of your best friends they never found this weird before helping her with the dress.

Truth was, the closer it all got, the more Alex felt his nerves. He woke Jack up and made him get ready while he himself got dressed too. "This is way too early," Jack whined. He claimed he still was struggling with jet lag even though he'd been there a couple days now. "You can sleep when you get back here," Alex chuckled. "While we're out with our parents and the kids there's gonna be enough time for you to nap." He was excited to see Sophie, nervous but impatient about really doing this and he smiled to himself as he got dressed and tried to make the best of his hair. When he was all ready, he headed downstairs to get the dogs settled and then wait for Sophie to be ready to head out as well. They had to take at least two cars and he wasn't fully sure if she was going to want them to go in separate cars so he wouldn't see her dress right away.

While the lingerie was easy enough to be laced into, the dress took a little more time. It was a tiny dress adorned with pearls and sparkles that needed to be pulled up and then laced in the back which took a few minutes to make sure it was done right. It was on brand for Sophie something short and sexy and she had gone for something that could be both bridal and party so it could fit under the guise of them partying for her birthday early. Once she helped Annie get ready, she ushered her out to tell him to head out with the boys and they would meet at the venue so he’d see her for the first time there. She fixed her hair into soft curls and brushed her fingers through her hair and put rhinestones in her hair to give a little extra sparkle before putting on the necklace with Alex’s initial and her engagement ring. Pulling on a pair of Jimmy Choo pearl heels she waited till they left and both Annie, Savannah, and Sophie got into the other car and headed to the venue arriving in the private entrance and she had to admit she was finally nervous. “I’ll wait here will you go get Alex so he can see me before everything?” She asked both girls.

Of course it was easy for Alex to get dressed up nicely. He had gotten a new suit to wear that wasn't all too fancy and something that wouldn't come off weird if they said they were going to celebrate Sophie's birthday early and before he knew it, he was dressed and ushered out of the house. He was nervous now, not cold feet nervous, but shifting in his seat and tugging at strands of his hair nervously. "You good?" Jack asked when he caught him tugging at his hair again and Alex nodded "Yeah, just.. can't believe she's really gonna be my wife." He was sure he was gonna see Sophie when they were actually getting ready, so he was surprised when Annie and Savannah came to get him to see her. "Oh, yeah of course," he murmured, nodded and let them lead him to the room Sophie was in. He took a breath before opening the door to slip into the room. "You sure you want me to see you now before we..." he trailed off as he turned to look at her and his eyes scanned over the short, sparkly dress she was wearing. "Oh, fucking hell," he mumbled under his breath, eyes scanning over her before a smile started to spread widely on his lips. "You look absolutely stunning."

She had to admit she had full on butterflies in her stomach. As she stood there waiting for her soon to be husband, she felt anxious and was trying to not feel nervous. But that wasn’t really possible feeling her heart beat a little harder. When the door open and Alex slipped inside, she took a steadying breath before turning to him. “Yeah, I’m sure.” She nodded. When he saw her in the short pearl covered sparkly dress it was all she could ask for. Seeing him smile she smiled brightly. “You look handsome.” She said taking a few steps towards him. “You ready for this? To get married it’s now or never.” She said chuckling softly. “I think we picked out the perfect outfits for today too.”

Alex gently closed the door behind him before turning to face Sophie and she could easily take his breath away with how stunning she looked. He smiled brightly back at her and took the few steps to meet her halfway, hands reaching out to take hers. "I'm honestly pretty nervous, so.." He chuckled softly and then shrugged his shoulders. "I've never been more ready. I can't wait to do this." He took a deep breath to try and steady his nerves a little and gave her hands a gentle squeeze. "How are you feeling?" He questioned and then his eyes widened the tiniest bit when he remembered something. "I got you something. I wasn't sure if I'm gonna see you before so I would've given it to you after, but now…" he let go of one of her hands to plug something out of his pants' pocket. It was a USB flash drive that looked like a cassette on that Alex had written 'for Sophie'. It felt like years ago when he had sung that one never released song at a London show, making it very obvious it was about, and for Sophie and he had promised her to get it on tape for her. So there was a recorded version of it on the flash drive, his demo of 'see you later' and a few other songs, some full demo tracks, some just snippets of songs, lines, that he had written for or about her.

“You’re not alone, I’m nervous too but in a good way kind of nervous.” More the excited to have this happen kind of nervous. “But I’m ready to do this. I’ve been waiting for this for years.” She grinned and she knew he knew it. When he said he got her something she furrowed her brows them knitting together as he pulled something out of his pocket and saw the ‘for Sophie’ that was written on it. She glanced at it in her hand now and brought it up. “What’s this?” She asked looking at the flash drive in her hand. She didn’t want to assume anything, so she figured it was best for him to tell her. “Am I supposed to look at his now or later?”

"Very good kind of nervous, yeah," Alex chuckled. He playfully rolled his eyes when she teased him about having waited years for it. It was true, but he knew she would've given him more time if he needed that. He handed Sophie the flash drive and licked his lips as he watched her looking at it. "It's a flash drive," he said with a small grin curling onto his lips, aware that she must know what it was but rather meant what was on it. "It's not to look, it's to listen," he told her, "You can listen later, or any other day, I just.. promised you to have this and we recorded it for you." They had actually made an almost studio version of the song in his little studio set up in the basement of their UK house. "There's more songs," he added, "those aren't studio versions. Some aren't even full songs…"

“Good, good.” she nodded that it was a good kind of nervous, not a scared kind of nervous. That would worry her far more than anything else if he was suddenly bad nervous. “I know it’s a flash drive.” she rolled her eyes before listening. “Are you trying to make me cry?” she asked her hands running over the pearl covered dress. “I … this is the sweetest.” she felt her throat tightening. “I don’t know what to say.” she admitted, because it was far the sweetest thing anyone could do, him putting his feelings for her in a way that she knew was incredibly personal to him. “It’s far better than my gift, you suck.” she teased wiping her eyes. Moving she grabbed a little thin box, “So I know we have rings, but that you’re not thrilled about rings.” Which was very personal to Sophie. It was a card to keep in his wallet with a personal message from Sophie and their wedding date inscribed on it. “You can carry it with you all the time so it feels like we both have something. So you don’t have to feel like you need to always wear a ring or can choose when you want to.”

"No," he said quickly, "no I don't want to make you cry. I just wanted to get you something so you'd know how I feel." Maybe she'd listen in times of doubt and be reminded just how much she meant to him. "You didn't have to get me anything, and I'm sure it's not better or worse," he murmured as she moved and he let go of her hands so she could grab a little thin box, causing him to arch a brow now. He took the box and started to open it when Sophie talked and for a moment, he glanced at the card in his hand before glancing up from it to find Sophie's look on him. "Soph, this is.. It's absolutely perfect." It meant a lot to him that she found a way for him to carry around a reminder of this day, much like Sophie had with her ring, just that it left his hands free of jewellery. "Thank you. So much," he murmured and reached out to cup her face and lean in to kiss her softly.

“I know how you feel but this is… perfect.” she said and she meant it. She’d probably keep it with her everywhere she went if she could make it happen. A smile tugged to her lips, she had to admit it was hard knowing he wouldn’t wear a ring all the time so she had looked into alternate thins that could be done. “I almost contemplated us getting a thin line tattooed on the base of our ring finger.” she admitted, “But I figured this was something to start though yours is far better and more meaningful.” Though she wasn’t a song writer. Her lips pressed his softly for a moment before she pulled back and took a breath. “Okay.” she said. “Ready to go get married?”

"It's not more meaningful," Alex said with a shake of his head before he kissed her softly. When they pulled back, he smiled at her and nodded. "Yes. Let's get married," he said and reached for her hand again, this time lacing their fingers together so he could lead her out of the room to where they needed to be.

Their fingers laced and she felt the butterflies in her stomach when he said let’s go get married and she nodded her heels clicking across the floors as she picked up the very small bouquet of flowers they had gotten for the private ceremony. They were ushered into a private room where everyone was dressed up and looked so nice for just a small ceremony.

Alex felt nervous, his stomach was fluttering but with more of excitement than anything else and before he knew it, they were ushered into a private room. It really was a short ceremony, a few words shared, repeated, said and then he got to put the ring on Sophie's finger that perfectly fit with the engagement ring he had gotten her a little more than a year ago. He held his hand out, so Sophie could put the ring on his finger and while he was happy she had taken the pressure of wearing it constantly off of him, it felt good to have it in that moment, and he knew he wanted to make Sophie happy by wearing it. When they were allowed to kiss, Alex used the hand with the ring to cup Sophie's cheek and leaned in to kiss her. "Mrs. Gaskarth," he whispered upon pulling away and smiled widely at her.

The ceremony was short and she kind of was glad that was the case to not give anyone any time to overthink things. Before she knew it, she felt the diamond band slipped on her finger and then she slipped the band on his finger after repeating her own words. She felt his hand with the ring against her face and pulling her in before hearing him call her Mrs. Gaskarth and having chills go down her spine. “I love you.” she whispered before kissing him again and hearing their friends cheer for them.

Alex couldn't wipe the smile off his face as they kissed again and had their friends cheer and their families clap for them. They had a little bit of paperwork to sign but then were soon ready to go and they crowded together inside to take a few pictures before their little ones couldn't be kept away and they came running to them. "Daddy, why put ring on mommy's finger?" Willa asked once Alex had picked her up and settled on his hip. "That's what you do when you get married, princess. It's a symbol of how much we love each other."

They had a little paperwork to fill out to make sure everything was finalized but that was it, she was officially Mrs. Gaskarth, they were married to each other. Their little ones running up to them was the sweetest thing, everyone all excited even if they fully didn’t understand what was going on. A smile tugged to her lips when Willa asked about the ring. “It’s so mommy and daddy will be mommy and daddy together forever.” she said leaning over and scooping up Noah and Delphine who squealed.

Willa seemed to consider their reply for a moment, then nodded briefly and dropped her head to Alex's shoulder. He smiled and turned his head to place a kiss on the top of the little one's head. Their parents came over to congratulate them, they chatted with their friends briefly before they were off back to the house to rest before the party tonight. "Are we ready to go?" Alex asked after a moment . "Anyone else as hungry as me?" He chuckled softly, the kids were running around and he stood by Sophie's side, reaching out to rest his hand on the small of her back. "Let's go?"

She chuckled, “maybe we should have gotten the kids each a little thing?” She knew when the big wedding came to kind of let all their friends and family be apart of they could have a little ceremony with the kids to make them feel special too but she hadn’t thought that Willa would be more curious. “I’m starving personally.” Sophie said, “so they’re gonna stay while we go out to dinner with our parents and the kids and then our parents are gonna come take them with them and we’ll all go out to party and celebrate with our friends.” It was the best balance they could find for the moment. “And I’m sure Jack is counting down for a nap.” She chuckled softly.

"I don't know. Maybe. We can for the big wedding?" He suggested with a shrug of his shoulders. "Oh, Jack is gonna head home from this and immediately lay down and pass out," Alex laughed. "It's been too early for him today." Willa rested against his shoulder and he ended up carrying her out to the car when they eventually were ready to leave the building. They settled the kids in their seats and drove off, either back to the house or out for early dinner, late lunch thing with the parents to celebrate. They picked a nice restaurant to go to, one where they knew they could be in a private room which made it much easier with the kids and trying not to draw too much attention to them all. "So what exactly did you plan for your trip?" Sophie's dad asked eventually while they were at the table eating away. "Skying in France. We thought Paris first but it's rainy and cold there now, so we're going more into the south of France and skying felt like a fun active vacation," Alex explained with a smile.

“I figured we would, but I didn’t think about today really.” she admitted. Not that she was worried that the kids were upset or anything, more curious. “He will survive.” she chuckled. The restaurant they chose was a bit upscale but it gave them privacy and the ability to enjoy a nice night out. Given they wanted a private room with their parents and kids she was happy they got that ability. “Oh, skiing sounds wonderful. Sophie has always loved skiing and snowboarding.”’ her mother said, “Alex too.” From one of his parents. “Sounds like a wonderful time, and you’ll keep my daughter out of the stores shopping you’ll thank yourself for that later.” her father said jokingly. “Daddy!” she scoffed as a few bottles of wine were brought out for them to enjoy together.

"I don't think they necessarily need anything today," Alex said with a shrug. He wasn't really worried. The kids seemed happy enough to have all these people around who loved giving them attention. They brought a few of their toys to the restaurant to keep them busy and that seemed to be working out perfectly once they were done with their food and it was just the adults still eating and chatting. "Yeah, I think it's gonna be a lot of fun," Alex said with a nod and then laughed softly at Sophie's dad's comment. "I don't think keeping her out of Paris is gonna stop her from shopping if she wants to," he admitted, but really he didn't mind when she did splurge on things she wanted. Wine was shared and Alex was mildly aware that by the end of the night chances were high they were going to be very drunk.

The kids were thrilled to have their toys and Willa was all excited over fancy mashed potatoes and alfredo pasta, she was so much like her mother… “Keep it up and I will find a way to go shopping.” It wasn’t a threat to Alex more just they knew she was a stubborn person. He never minded. Which she appreciated as she leaned in and took another bite of her food and let out a low moan next to his ear just more for him to hear more to tease him before sitting up. “Are you sure you’re okay with the kids for a little bit?” her father nodded, “Don’t worry we’re so excited and we’ll be trading off with Alex’s parents until they head home so I’m sure the kids won’t even miss you.” he said and Sophie rolled her eyes. “Thanks dad.”

It was always funny to watch Willa at dinner because she was so much like her mother when it came to being excited about food. Though the way Sophie leaned forward a bit and let out a low moan, Alex was sure it wasn't just because the food was delicious; which it really was anyway. He glanced at her and arched a brow, but then focused his attention back on the conversation with their parents. "We do want the kids to miss us," Alex chuckled softly. "But I hope they'll be good for you anyway. Willa's excited to be with you." He dug into another bite of his food and then picked up the glass of wine after to take a sip.

When Alex looked at her with his brow raised, she shrugged her shoulders. She had a feeling they were going to end up very drunk tonight and she could tease and taunt all she wanted in between. “I’m sure they’ll be fine.” Sophie’s mother interjected, “they’ll be excited when you facetime them.” Which she knew was true. After finishing off another glass of wine Sophie sighed. “Okay I can’t do anymore… or this dress isn’t going to fit anymore.”

Alex couldn't help but grin when Sophie said she couldn't do anymore and he leaned over slightly so he could speak and only she could hear. "I could get you out of that dress," he told her with a wink and then leaned back in his seat to engage in the general conversation again. They got dessert for everyone to share once they were done eating and when some chocolatey dish was brought in, all three kids came scrambling over to get their fair share. "You know, for someone who did not like solid foods for a long time, you sure love this chocolate," Alex said to Delphine who was wiggling in his lap to try to reach more of the sweet food on Alex's plate. "Easy, you'll get a little more," he chuckled and got another bite on the spoon for her to have.

When he said he could get her out of the dress her hand came down and let her nails dig into his thigh. “You’ll be too drunk.” she tutted back to him. When the dessert came in the kids were practically running, climbing over them to get to it. “Noah, Noah,” she said helping him up. “Easy there.” she said helping him get his own small plate as her parents got Willa’s set. “She wanted to do things on her own time, thank you.” she said to Alex looking at Delphine all proud of her. “Not too much though or she’ll be sick.”

Alex let out a breath when Sophie's nails dug into his thigh, but he couldn't help a grin playing on his lips. "We'll both be drunk, we could still get you out of that dress," he teased, though chances were, she was right. By the end of the night, if they were too drunk and it was gonna be super late, they were probably going to just pass out once they got into bed. Noah was all over Sophie to get up to his dessert while Willa was climbing onto her own big girl chair to eat away. "I know, I'm trying," Alex laughed as Sophie warned him to not let Delphi have too much chocolate. They let them have some but made sure not too much and eventually all food was gone and Delphi fell asleep in Alex's arm while Noah and Willa went to play again and they spent some more time just chatting and talking.

“I guess I shouldn’t have put this special lingerie set on for tonight.” She murmured for him to hear luckily their parents were so busy fussing over the kids. “Got to be careful can’t get this over mummy’s white dress.” She said as she helped him so he wouldn’t dig his hands in. Once they let the kids eat and they were down and she saw Delphine sleeping in Alex’s arm she leaned into him. “I love seeing you be a dad.” She murmured softly.

He let out a soft groan at that and for a moment he didn't even have a good comeback for that. Maybe he was just hoping they weren't too drunk to enjoy their wedding night. They let the kids have dessert, ate some themselves and eventually Delphi was sleeping and Alex shifted her a little bit so she could lean into him a little more and be comfortable. He smiled when Sophie leaned over slightly and he glanced down at their littlest before looking back at Sophie. "Let's hope you'll say that about me being your husband too," he said with a small grin and leaned over slightly so he could peck her lips. "Should we head out soon?"

She grinned back at him happy to make her point. Sophie was thrilled to lean into him as he held their youngest daughter even though she was almost two years old she was still being held by him like little baby. “I already know you’re going to be an amazing husband.” She said because it was true, even when they had struggled, he had been so supportive. She gave a small kiss back before nodding, “yes or we could abandon our friends and go to a hotel suite.” She teased.

He playfully rolled his eyes and then smirked slightly. "We can't ditch the party. But if we head out now, we're not gonna have to head out to the pub right away," he said, licking his lips before they started to gather things, pay for all the food and drinks and get the kids bundled up and grab their jackets too. They said goodbyes to their parents, to the kids and promised to face time once they arrived in their hotel in France and then they were off to head back to their house where their friends were either still napping or just hanging out before their night out.

“I mean we could it’s our wedding.” She pointed out with a roll of her eyes. They gathered up their things and got the kids ready and with their toys and overnight bags packed full for the next few days. Kissing the kids she hugged their parents and they were off. Heading back to the house they got back and it was quiet and she figured a lot of people were still napping before they ended up going out for the night.

"But we want to celebrate with our friends," he reminded her. Because while yes, the idea of just sneaking away was tempting, he was also looking forward to having a fun night with their friends. The house was mostly quiet when they got back and Alex grinned slightly as he glanced around. He heard some shuffling in the kitchen and figured someone was making coffee or a snack, but mostly everyone just seemed to be resting up. "Follow me," Alex reached for Sophie's hand and started tugging her along with him, upstairs and towards the master bedroom.

“Yes fine.” She teased because she did want to celebrate with their friends. So when they got to the house she toed off her heels and bent down to pick them up before his hand took her and was tugging her up the stairs fast and into the master bedroom. “Alex.” She whispered, “you’re going to trip me.” She said getting into the room and putting the shoes down.

He waited just long enough for Sophie to take her shoes off but then he was tugging her along until they were in their bedroom and he closed the door behind them while Sophie put the shoes down. "You didn't trip," he reminded her as he leaned against the door with a cheeky grin spread on his lips. "We have some time before we're heading out," he said, reaching out to pull her towards him so he could then wrap his arms around her waist, resting them against the small of her back. "I think I wanna make out with my /wife/ a little bit. Is that okay with you.. Mrs. Gaskarth?" He asked, licking his lips and looking at her questioningly.

“No but I almost did.” She said as she turned to him. He was leaning against the door grinning and she couldn’t help but smile and let out a small laugh. His hands tugged her in and she leaned into his body his arms now around her waist. A shiver ran down her spine when he called her his wife and Mrs. Gaskarth. He knew how to sway her. Watching him lick his lips, “when have we ever been able to just make out?”

Alex pulled her into him and he was happy she leaned into his body so easily. They didn't have a long time between their celebrations, but this was all about them anyway, if they ended up late, who could even blame them? "We can try again, maybe this time we'll just be making out," he said with a grin and started to lean in, "and if we do more than just make out, that's perfectly fine by me." He closed the small distance between them to capture her lips in a kiss.

It was their wedding after all, they were married. They were supposed to be all over each other. “Mmm we’ve done this, try this thing before and it never works.” She hummed but she wasn’t complaining. “And you’re right if we do more.” She licked her lips. “The underwear I have on now would make that really, really easy.” She husked softly before his mouth was on hers.

Alex let out a moan into their kiss once their lips connected. He pulled her in a little more so she was pressed up against him and for a moment, he was really happy to just be kissing her. After a moment, he started pushing her back gently, moving further into the room with her and only breaking the kiss so he could make sure they weren't stumbling over anything. "What about your dress, are we going to ruin it if you keep this on?" He asked with a smirk tugging at his lips again, his eyes glancing down briefly before locking with hers again.

She grinned into the kiss when he moaned, she always loved hearing the bit of vocalness from him. He pushed her back walking her towards the bed making sure she didn’t trip. “It’s gonna be so hard to put me back into this dress.” She said since it was laced up. “But if you pull it up over my hips it’ll be fine unless you plan on coming on me but that wouldn’t be your normal ways.” She grinned. “How about we make out with my dress up and that way you can decide if you like what you see.” She said pushing him back slightly after another kiss. She wiggled the dress up exposing the lace band across her belly and the underwear that covered her pelvis that was flimsy and sexy and on each side a piece held between her thigh and groin leaving it wide open between the middle, essentially making it so she didn’t have to take the underwear off if he wanted to be inside of her. She crawled over him straddling him and brought his hand down to feel how the underwear were there but not there before kissing him hard.

Alex chuckled softly when she said it wasn't his normal ways. "If I end up being inside of you, we both know I'm gonna want to stay inside for any orgasm reached," he said honestly, biting his lips as she pushed him back slightly and he moved to sit on the bed while Sophie wiggled her dress up to reveal the lacy underwear she had on. He let out a soft groan at the view and happily shifted to give Sophie more room to straddle him when she crawled over him. Her hand found his and brought it down between her legs and honestly, there was no chance of them 'just making out' now at all. He loved feeling her, and his fingers easily slipped between her legs, feeling her, rubbing her as their lips met hard in a kiss.

It was a different piece of lingerie that she hadn’t worn before for Alex and she thought on their wedding it was the most appropriate time when they might want to just get to each other. After all this would be the first time as husband and wife. His hand moved between her legs with ease once she guided him and start rubbing her probably feeling she was already wet for him as they met in a hard kiss and her hands started almost ripping at his suit pants to unbutton them, almost in desperation and need the more in the moment, the more heavy it became.

His free hand caressed up her bare thigh, feeling the skin under his touch while his other hand was busy feeling just how wet she already was. Their kiss was hard and heavy, build up want for each other from teasing comments earlier was making it easy to get carried away now. Part of him thought to warn her not to actually rip his pants, but he was too busy kissing her to say anything, and he really didn't care for the pants that much either. He pulled back, breaking the kiss when Sophie had finally undone the zipper of his pants and he helped shifting so she could tug the pants down. "I really don't care for just making out," he admitted with a soft chuckle and in between kisses.

Their kiss was hot and heavy immediately and she was sure it was the build-up of emotions of being a married couple driving them. Their teeth bumped each other tongues tangling roughly with each other. She finally got the button and zipper undone and he pulled back to help slide the pants off of him so that they didn’t end up a mess. “We should really just be honest that we don’t want to make out we want to have sex when we say that.” Her breathing already heavy and fast. “And I need you inside of me like now.” She pulled at him to push down his boxer briefs and wrapping her hand around his cock stroking it firmly a few times. “Like right /now/.”

"Maybe there'll be a time when we really just want to make out," he chuckled softly, though currently he couldn't see that any time soon. Alex was so turned on by Sophie and all she did to him and when finally they managed to pull his boxer briefs down as well, it was obvious how much he wanted her too. He groaned when her hand wrapped around his hardened length and he closed his eyes and tipped his head back slightly, hips shifting into her touch slightly. "Fuck, then what are you waiting for, baby?" He asked, his hands moving to her hips to pull her in so she'd line up with him and could lower herself onto his cock, sinking him fully inside of her.

“When we’re ancient and old and shouldn’t be having sex anymore.” She teased because something told her he’d never agree to that willingly. She felt him grasp her hips and pull her close so that she could line up with him and he lowered her onto him and she took all of him easily inside of her and she groaned out softly her head falling back as she rolled her hips against him grinding on him heavily as she worked her hips on him buried deep inside of her.

"Who says we shouldn't be having sex anymore?" He questioned, but really, the way she was kissing and touching him had him way too distracted to really argue about that. His hands dropped to her thighs when she started grinding on him heavily, and he moved them up the bare skin and around to her butt as he leaned in to press hungry kisses against her neck and shoulder, nibbling lightly but not enough to leave any mark. This really wasn't lovemaking after getting married, this was more claiming each other and getting all their emotions of the day out a little bit at least. He was sure there was more than enough time for lovemaking when they were on their little trip, but right now it wasn't time for that. "You feel so good, baby," he husked against her neck before trailing the kisses up and finding her lips again in another heavy kiss.

“When we’re super old.” She said, chuckling. For now though they were young and happy and horny and well.. married. Which made everything feel that much more intense this time around for some reason. Her hips ground hard into him again and again whimpering noises falling from her lips again and again. While maybe others would have opted for lovemaking after being married, they were more emotional and creative and it pent up in different ways. “Oh fuck Alex.” She gasped her hips grinding a little harder into him feeling wetness slick down her legs and against his thighs. Her mouth covering his in a heavy kiss again until she broke away gasping for breath and pushed his torso down so he could see her grinding and riding his cock her head tossed back in absolute pleasure.

Her grinding got a little harder and Alex moaned into their kiss when her lips were on his again, heavily kissing. Maybe it was the fact they weren't sure how the night was going to go, or maybe it was just this want for each other from finally making that officially forever that had them needing each other so badly right now. Alex just knew that since they had this time, he didn't want that going to waste when it meant he could be doing this with his /wife/ now. She felt so good, grinding into him, sliding on his cock and the wetness almost dripping down against his thighs. When their kiss broke, she pushed him back and he lay back against the back, letting out a long breath and reaching over to grab a pillow to tuck under his head, making it easier to look at her, watch her grinding on top of him, riding him so perfectly. They were both still half dressed, but he happily focused on the way they were moving together, his own hips thrusting up into her.

She knew that part of this was the fact that they didn’t know what the night would bring. They already had a decent amount of wine in them and that always made her a bit more handsy and if they got full on drunk there was no way they’d have sex later they’d probably pass out and maybe catch up early morning before their flight but there was no guarantee and she didn’t want to miss out on their first time together whether that was now like this or later. He made himself comfortable and she felt his hips start to thrust up into her and grasped at his shirt after unbuttoning his jacket and she bit down on her lip to keep herself quiet bouncing on him and her head nodding on how good she was feeling.

Once he was comfortably laying back, his hands found her legs again, gripping at bare skin lightly as his own hips started thrusting up to meet her rhythm. His head was spinning a little, feeling the pleasure building up so quickly. Her hand grasped into his shirt and he could feel the ring on her finger pressing against him through the fabric. "Soph," he almost whined, because he was feeling himself getting so much closer so quickly.

His thrusts met her every move she made which made the feeling all that much better. She could tell they both weren’t going to last given the build up to this as she whined softly. “Don’t come yet.” She breathed as she stopped and shifted moving herself so she was still straddling him but facing away from him and started to ride him harder hopping up and down his shaft so she was both on top of him and he was taking her from behind as she rode harder and pulled his hand to reach the front of her to feel the wetness dripping from her with her want of him being buried inside of her.

Alex groaned when she told him not to come yet and then she was moving, shifting herself to turn around before sinking onto his length again, changing the angle the way she could now be bouncing on top of him. He let her guide his hands around, feeling how wet she was but also bringing his fingers in between to rub at her clit and add to the friction as he bit down on his lip hard. "So fucking close, baby," he pressed out, tipping his head back against the pillow. He had been so close already and it was hard to hold back now, so after some more thrusts and with the way Sophie was bouncing against him, he couldn't hold back the pleasure anymore. "I.. fuuuuck," he moaned out, lifting himself to sit up again as he spilled deep inside of her, his chest pressing against Sophie's back as he made sure to thrust his hips a few more times hard, rubbing against her a little more, eager to get her to reach that high as well.

She could tell by the pulsing that he was incredibly close but so was she. She just wanted to be a bit different when she came around him. She felt his fingers start to rub her clit and she tossed her head back and bit down hard on her lip groaning out to muffle the noise. When she felt him sit up and grab her, there was the sudden filling of him spilling inside of her and she came undone her legs shaking and falling apart around him as she hit her own release and trembled against his body attempting to come down with the hard thrusts and attempt to not collapse forward on him and fall off the bed onto the floor.

"Ohhh," he let out against her shoulder as he felt her release around him, his thrusts slowing down and coming to a halt as his hand moved away from her and he rather wrapped his arms around her, tugging her back against his chest to hold her up. He was breathing hard and heavy, trying to catch his breath as he buried his face against the back of her shoulder.

His hands moved to grab her and hold her up and she leaned back into him. “Mmm my husband does know how to take care of me so good.” She husked leaning more into his body as he buried his head against her shoulder. “And as much as I love you and you inside of me… I’m making a mess and this hurts my legs .” She laughed softly. “We really need to clean up.”

He laughed softly against her shoulder when she said they needed to get up and clean up. "Fine, fine," he chuckled and pressed a kiss to her shoulder once again. "Careful, we don't want to make a mess on our clothes," he teased as he slowly let go of her and helped her get up so they could scramble off into the bathroom and clean up before getting dressed again. When they were all cleaned up and fully dressed again, Alex found Sophie and cupped her face to kiss her softly. "I love you. So fucking much. I know sex isn't all but I would've regretted not having any kind of wedding night if we end up too drunk tonight. So I'm glad we had this moment," he murmured, pecking her lips once more.

“Yeah don’t mess up my dress!” She said as if it was strictly him. She hiked the dress up a little more before scrambling to the bathroom and cleaning herself up thoroughly. “You know crotchless panties are hot until your husband comes inside of you and you have to clean yourself up so you don’t make a mess when you go out in public.” She said as he cleaned himself up too. “I love you so much.” She said before chuckling. “They say it’s not a real marriage ‘til you consummate it anyway so we needed that.” She hummed pecking his lips. “But I’m glad we did too. Before you’re drooling on me tonight.”

He playfully rolled his eyes before following her to the bathroom to clean up and then get dressed again. "I suggested making out, you were the one straddling me," he teased, obviously just joking. When they were both presentable again, he cupped her face and chuckled softly. "What do you mean, me drooling over you?" He chuckled and finally dropped his hands from her face. "C'mon, we have a party to get to. And see if everyone else is ready to go."

“As if it was ever going to just be making out.” She rolled her eyes, “don’t even try that game.” Laughing as she fixed her hair a bit so it wasn’t such a mess. “You drooling from being drunk is what I’m presuming actually.” She tutted with a laugh before taking his hand. “Come on; Jack better buy us a round of drinks or I’m disowning him.” She joked as she headed towards the door and picking her heels back up to put on downstairs.

"You can't just assume I'm gonna be so drunk I'll be drooling, maybe that's what happens with you instead." He chuckled as she grabbed his hand to lead him out of the room and he followed behind, heading back downstairs to see where everyone was. "There you are," Rian greeted them from the kitchen and Jack glanced up to grin at them. "Can we go now? We want to celebrate!" Of course, Jack was the most excited to be out and make it a party. "Yeah, we can head out. Everyone ready to go?" He glanced against, his hand still firmly holding onto Sophie's until she needed it to put her heels back on.

“You’re the drooler here.” She said grinning. “Maybe we should sleep in separate beds tonight actually, so I don’t get all gross and drooly” she teased him. She got over to an area to steady herself and put her heels back on and she knew her feet were gonna be killing her by the end of the night but she wasn’t going to ditch the perfect shoes either.

"I don't drool when I sleep," Alex argued as they made it through the house towards the kitchen. "When you're drunk you do," Jack commented without even having heard the beginning of the conversation and Alex gave him a look. "Excuse me?" He turned his attention back to Sophie and shook his head. "You totally gave up your chance on having your own bed. You married me, we now share the same bed for the rest of our lives." He mindlessly reached out to steady her as she put the shoes back on and before they knew it, everyone was heading out and into the cars that would take them to the pub they were going to celebrate in.

When jack said he drooled when he had been drinking, she cackled with a laugh. “Told you.” She said with a proud look on her face. “Um no. No. I think it’s totally fair that I could absolutely totally fully sleep in another bed if you’re gonna drool.” She said. “Yeah, that is kind of gross.” Rian said and Annie nodded. Which just made her laugh harder. Heading out to the pub she knew they had a private area again to celebrate. “Remember everyone we’re here to celebrate my birthday before you guys are busy, no wedding talk.” She reminded before cursing. “Shit Annie can you wear my wedding band?” She said taking it off and the woman nodded slipping it on her hand knowing she’d give it back to her when they left. “What, we can’t be photographed with wedding bands.”

"Y'all suck," Alex huffed and shook his head. They were off soon and Alex arched a brow when Sophie took off the ring to hand it to Annie. "Wedding talk can easily be hidden by the news of Rian's engagement," he told her, then nodded towards Annie, "and apparently Zack's too if you're caught wearing that," he reminded them before shrugging his shoulders. He had the card Sophie had gotten him tucked inside his wallet, but he left the ring at home to not cause anyone to notice and start talking, since he wasn't really planning on wearing that all that much, but somehow seeing Sophie tug hers off so quickly to hand it to Annie caused him to grumble a little bit. There was something about knowing Sophie was wearing a ring that was ultimately the confirmation she was going to spend the rest of her life with him. But he didn't dwell on it but rather ushered everyone out of the car and up to the pub to head inside to their private area there.

“She’s wearing it on her right hand Alex not her left hand.” She rolled her eyes. “They won’t think a diamond band is an engagement ring or they’d tell Annie to find someone else.” She rolled her eyes as if they should have known that. “And I don’t want people saying we tried to outshine anyone with Rian or Savannah or the other way around.” So it was easier that way. Seeing him grumble a little bit made her grin. “Now who cares about someone wearing their wedding ring?” She husked into his ear. Heading into the pub people turned and there were whispers and a few phone flashes and she knew people were taking photos as they were brought back to the private area.

"There's nothing being outshined anyway," Alex said and shook his head a little bit. "But fine, if you think that's the way to go," he grumbled and when Sophie husked into his ear, he huffed out a little. "I just like you wearing it, not giving it to someone else," Alex said with a shrug and then they all headed inside. People were taking pictures, though Alex was starting to get used to these moments when he was out with Sophie and he didn't mind that much, they were allowed to be out and having a good time, even dress up a little. They were a few drinks in and just talking and having a good time when he felt his phone buzz and he pulled it out to see Maisie's text saying she was gonna be there in the next ten, maybe fifteen minutes. Sophie had so easily agreed to just have the band as their closest friends to celebrate with, and of course Annie was there too, but he knew she'd be happy to have another girlfriend there. One Alex knew and could easily get in touch with. He grinned at his phone and slipped it back in his pocket before moving to find Sophie, make sure she would be one of the first to spot Maisie joining them.

“I know that but people are awful so I rather this be kept quiet and you got to leave your ring at home.” She pointed out and her wearing one would stir the pot for sure. “Yes, well I’ll have it back by the time we go home tonight babe.” She said. Alex did keep checking his phone, but she knew there was so much going on with possible dates being added to the touring of the year, the candle company, just so much so she understood and they were having fun drinking and dancing to the music. When he moved her, she was confused before seeing phones flashing and a familiar face and she squealed so loudly and dashed from Alex’s arms into Maisie’s and she saw more people standing up and taking photos of her squealing and hopping with her. “I’ve missed you!”

As busy as work was for him, Alex wouldn't actually dare to spend a lot of time to focus on that on a day like this. This was their wedding day and he wanted to be present, didn't want to spend hours reading people's comments or seeing their reactions to things, and neither spending hours with emails and messages or phone calls. So the times he did check his phone it was strictly to make sure Maisie knew where to come and see if she could actually make it. So when he finally knew when she'd arrive, he found Sophie to move her more towards where the entrance to the private area was, seeing the confused look on her face until Maisie showed up and the two ran into each other’s arms and were jumping excitedly. Alex laughed softly and moved to grab himself another drink, giving them a moment before he too greeted Maisie. "Glad you could make it," he said with a grin.

She squealed again knowing she was making a scene and she didn’t really care because it had been so long since she had seen Maisie. “Glad you invited me.” She said. “I can’t believe I thought you were busy.” She was so surprised. “Oh, so that’s what you were up to?” gesturing to his phone and him. “I was busy pulling off a surprise for you.” She laughed and she knew it was best to get back in the private area. “You guys are both the worst and the best.” She laughed as they got a drink and she moved to introduce Maisie to Savannah who she didn’t know and reintroduce anyone.

"What did you think I was doing on my phone?" Alex laughed softly. He hugged Maisie and then ushered them all back into the private area where Sophie introduced Maisie to Savannah, and really anyone else again and he was off to find them each a drink so they could cheer together. Maisie easily fit into the group, she'd known them from years ago, but also whenever they were in London and did have time to hang out, or she was actually around in the states, but it had been a while since her and Sophie had time to catch up and Alex was glad it worked out this way now. He wasn't sure how many drinks later he found Sophie and held his hand out as he walked up to her. "Dance with me?" He asked, a grin on his lips.

“I don’t know, I know you have a lot going on right now.” she said honestly and she wasn’t going to scold him if it was important. Even if it was their wedding day. They continued to hang out, drink, have a good time, celebrate, and just spend time with everyone. Several drinks later she licked her lips as she finished off her next drink before Alex approached her. “Dance with you? Since when do you want to dance with me.” she teased holding her hand out to him.

They spent a while just enjoying the night and several drinks later, Alex was definitely feeling the buzz of the alcohol, he went to find Sophie. A soft laugh escaped his lips as he took her hand and pulled her in against him, one hand holding her hand still, the other moving to the small of her back and leaning in a bit. "Since it's our wedding day?" He murmured in her ear but then grinned. "Plus, it's not like I never dance with you."

She loved buzzed Alex he could be so amusing and playful, not that he wasn’t on a regular day but still it was just different. She felt him pull her against him and swayed to the sound of the music. “I guess our wedding day is a special day we should dance on.” She hummed happily. “I know it’s fun to tease you though. But you should dance with me more.”

They swayed to the music once they were close together and Alex held her to him while chuckling softly. "You like dancing with me? Is it because I'm such a great dancer?" He smirked slightly but playfully. When the music picked up a little, he let go of her back so he could twirl her around and then pull her back in. "We could do a dance class before the big wedding," he suggested, not really considering how little time they'd probably have for that, with the upcoming and yet to be announced tour dates and all that. But it could be fun, right?

“Oh yeah you’re the best dancer there ever was.” She playfully teased. “I’m submitting you to be on dancing with the stars.” Joking obviously, she was not going to have her husband doing all sexy dances with gorgeous professional dancers. He twirled her and she giggled turning back into him. “Yeah? Think you would like that?” She was sure they could make it work even with their busy schedule. “Would be fun to impress people with a special dance even if I love just dancing like this with you too.”

A smirk spread on Alex's lips and he raised a brow as he looked at her. "You're submitting me to be dancing with someone on tv?" Neither of them really liked to admit how jealous they could get, but honestly Alex wouldn't want to be watching Sophie doing all these dances with someone else and he doubted, she'd actually want him to do so either. His arm wrapped back around her and he leaned his cheek against hers slightly as he swayed with her, twirling them both and humming softly. "I don't know if I'd enjoy that. You'd probably have to listen to me whine about my whole body aching all the time," Alex teased, "but it'd be great to be able to do more than this at the big wedding. You know, since we're not really having an official first dance until then."

“I could, it’d be amusing seeing you in those tight little clothing pieces all skin tight. On national television.” she grinned but she knew as well as he did, jealousy was strong with both of them and she’d end up probably far more jealous than not and no one deserved that. Especially given the firm reminder right now that Alex married /her/ without a second doubt. “So you mean like any random day.” When he said whine and she started giggling like a drunk in love teenager. “I mean this is technically our first wedding dance just because it’s in a pub doesn’t mean it’s not special.”

"Hey, I don't whine all the time," he chuckled softly and nuzzled the side of his face against hers momentarily as she giggled against him. "I'm not saying it's not special, but we're not doing any fancy dance like on our big wedding celebration." He chuckled and once again twirled her, before tugging her into him. "Okay," he said after a while of dancing, "think we should get another drink, don't you? Don't want our feet to be aching if we're gonna want to be out on the slopes the next couple days," Alex suggested and took her hand to lead her to the bar so they could get a refill on their drinks.

“Mmm okay not all the time just some of the time.” she teased with a giggle. “I didn’t say it has to be a big fancy dance on our wedding but like a something a little fancy.” she hummed. Because it would be kind of special. “My feet are going to ache the next few days regardless have you seen these heels?” she chuckled softly like that was the most obvious thing. “But the slopes are going to be so much fun but until then another drink, I want something sweet and fruity.”

Alex's eyes glanced down to her feet briefly. "You should've put on more comfortable shoes," he chuckled, but he was aware how they completed the whole outfit. He led her to the bar and ordered drinks for them. With his glass in hand, he glanced around and then they were off again to mingle with their friends.

“But they matched the dress perfectly and they’re jimmy choo.” She protested furrowing her brow as if that would actually mean something to Alex. They ordered another round of drinks and she took a sip before they were off again mingling and she found herself with Maisie curled up with her and half falling asleep in her friends arms.

It was late when people started to obviously get more tired. Alex himself had to stifle a yawn when he spotted Sophie curled up with Maisie and looking like she was already falling asleep. He chuckled softly and headed over to sit beside them. "Think it's time to head home?" he questioned. It still took another hour at least to say their goodbyes, have another round of drinks to celebrate and then everyone was starting to head out. Alex was drunk, but he stumbled Sophie to the car just fine and chuckled as they squeezed into the vehicle and his arm draped over her shoulders once they were seated inside.

She didn’t mind falling asleep on Maisie, she had done it tons of times before but Alex came over a bit later saying they should get home. It still took a while and another round of drinks before he led her to the car or more like stumbled her to it but she got in and leaned into him resting her head on his shoulder and tucking her body into his as she relaxed herself on the drive back home.

The drive wasn't too long, but it felt like an eternity now that his body was starting to relax and he felt how tired he actually was. When they finally arrived, Alex tipped the driver and helped Sophie climb out of the vehicle. "Come, it's bedtime," he mumbled. It took him a moment to fumble for the right key but then he let them inside and upstairs without tumbling into anything in the process. In their bedroom, Alex took off his fancy suit jacket and started unbuttoning his shirt to take it off, contemplating more comfortable clothes to sleep in, but figuring just the boxer briefs will do.

Once they got home everyone was stumbling into the house, but Alex and Sophie headed up to bed knowing everyone else would find where they needed to go. Once inside she let the door close before kicking off her shoes one by one and then undoing her dress and letting it drop to the floor leaving her in the lingerie he had gotten a preview of earlier and crawling into bed and dropping her body down onto the large oversized bed

Of course once he was halfway undressed himself, Alex caught a glimpse of Sophie stripping off her dress and he almost pouted. "I don't get to take the dress off?" he asked, genuinely concerned as she crawled into bed. He kicked off his shoes and took the pants off, really just discarding them somewhere without thinking and then making his way to the bed. "Oh, we so should've brought one last drink," he chuckled as he climbed onto the bed and just sat there for a moment. "Should I get us shots?" he asked, beaming about his idea.

When he said he didn’t get to take the dress off she chuckled, “you can take something else off another day to make up for it.” She promised him, plus she was sure when they had the bigger showier wedding he would take that dress off. When he suggested that they get shots she laughed. “You want to do shots right now? In bed?” She asked. “I hope in bed I don’t think doing shots with me dressed like this downstairs would be a good idea around everyone.”

"But that's not the same," he almost pouted at her and shook his head a little bit. Climbing into bed, he moved over to be close to her and nodded quickly. "Yes, shots in bed," he grinned like this was the best idea he could've had. His look only darkened a little bit at the mere idea of her downstairs looking like she currently did. "No, you stay here, I get shots." And with that, he was off the bed and out the room, not bothering to put any of his clothes back on, not like the boys hadn't seen him in underwear, or even less anyway. He almost stumbled down the stairs, cursed as he hit the counter a bit, but then was returning not with two shot glasses, but rather the bottle of alcohol that didn't have a whole lot left inside anyway. He slipped back into their bedroom and closed the door behind him. "You better not have fallen asleep," he chuckled.

“I’ll make it worth your while.” She promised him and she would make it up to him. Even if it might not be the same to him. When his eyes darkened, she giggled but she didn’t push her luck as she got comfortable in bed while he stumbled out of the bed. It took him a little while to come back before bringing the alcohol bottle that was more than half gone. “Mmm fall asleep without my husband our first married night never.” She hummed propping her head up. “I promised shots with you.”

It took him a moment to find the alcohol downstairs and bring it back to the bedroom where Sophie thankfully was still away as he climbed back into bed so he could cross legged beside her. "I didn't bring glasses so you're gonna have to be okay with sharing the bottle with me," he warned, like they didn't actually confirm they were willing to share the rest of their lives together just earlier that day. He held the bottle out, so she could take it and take a sip of it.

He crawled back into bed and she smiled up at him. “I noticed no shot glasses and here I thought we were gonna be doing body shots off of each other.” She giggled as she reached out to take the bottle and took a sip of it. after all sharing wasn’t that big of a deal, they swapped far more than saliva earlier.

Alex was just getting settled in bed when Sophie said she was considering body shots and his eyes widened a bit before the grin on his lips widened. "Oh!" he said and shifted so he could take the bottle back. "We should do that. Much more fun than just drinking from the bottle," he chuckled before actually taking a sip. They ended up making a bit of a mess on the bed and fell asleep tangled up in stripped sheets. When Alex woke the next morning, his head was pounding, the bottle he had brought for the two of them was fully emptied out and for a moment he wished they would have more time to sleep. But there was only enough time to drink some water, take some pain meds and shower before they had to grab their things and head off to the airport. Jack, Zack and Annie were staying in the house so the dogs were taken care off, the kids were going back and forth between their parents and Alex was glad they had their own luggage ready and didn't have to pack in the morning. He managed to sleep a little bit on the flight, but he was still feeling tired when they finally got to their hotel room in the winter resort in France. They had grabbed snacks on the way and there were plans for a fancy dinner in the hotel’s restaurant, but not much else planned for the day thankfully. After dropping their bags, Alex moved to let himself fall onto the bed and let out a long sigh. "Oh, this is soooo comfortable."

By the end of the night, or well, by the time they were falling asleep, the bed was a mess, they were a mess, and completely passing out tangled in each other and the sheets. The next morning when Alex woke and in turn woke her, she groaned, “Shut uppppp.” she whined pulling the pillow over her head. Of course she really couldn’t go back to bed they had such an early flight, why did they drink as long as they did? They barely got a few hours of sleep as she turned over taking out four Tylenol and popping them in her mouth with water. “Oh god.” she groaned and not in a sexy way. Once they were on the flight, she fell asleep on the plane even before it had taken off. The place they were staying was private and secluded just for them. It had a beautiful indoor pool, a grand bedroom suite, a whole open floor plan, it was absolutely stunning. After Alex made plans at the main lodging hotel for dinner they were both hitting the bed. “Mmm very comfy.” she nodded half curling up. “I’ll see you in a few days.” she teased closing her eyes.

Alex felt the bed shift when Sophie curled up beside him and he turned his head to glance over and chuckle softly. "Not leaving the bed while we're here?" he questioned, then rolled onto his side so he could reach over to poke her side with a grin on his lips. "We're gonna have to leave the bed eventually for dinner," he told her, then shifted so he was more on his stomach and rested his head on his arms. "Whose idea was it to take body shots?" he asked with a chuckle. "We had so much to drink."

“Mmm with how I’m feeling I could never leave the bed.” she admitted, still a decent bit hung over, very tired, and just still with the bliss of being newly married. Not even a full 24 hours had they been married. When he poked her side she groaned, “Don’t be mean you got me drunk.” she teased. “Mmm I don’t remember.” Even though she was the one to bring it up. “We had to put that lingerie to good use it was expensive.” she tutted softly.

"I got you drunk? I think you brought that upon yourself," Alex said with a grin, but then shifted and didn't poke her any further. "Oh you can wear that again some time, make sure it’s money well spent," he said and lifted his head a bit to smirk at her. His head was pounding a little still and he knew best they could do was rest. "Actually, this bed is so comfortable, I think we should nap before dinner later." Part of him was curious to explore the whole place they had right there, and their outside surroundings too, but his body really needed the rest.

“Mmm nope you got me drunk.” she nodded as if it was totally on him. “I may have packed it, I may have packed other lingerie.” she admitted. “But it all depends on how this weekend goes if you get to see any of it.” Teasing him. “You want to nap? Since when do you suggest the nap first.” chuckling softly. “I can’t wait to get into that heated pool.” she groaned out.

"I'm not saying on this trip, just.. In general," Alex chuckled softly. "We don't have to nap, but this bed is comfy, and we're both hungover," he said with a shrug. "Figured we could nap before dinner but we can go exploring if you'd rather."

“No I’m good with taking a nap.” she said because she was already in the bed and when in Rome… or in this case, when in the Parisian mountain tops. “We can explore after, all I really care about exploring is the inside pool we have in this giant villa. But that can wait.” she murmured tucking herself into the side and pulling a pillow in closer.

"Are you sure that can wait?" Alex questioned amusedly as he shifted closer and wrapped his arm around her. He tugged her in a bit. "You've already mentioned the pool twice. We can go explore that now if you're so excited for it," he teased slightly, humming softly as he nuzzled into her slightly, eyes closed but not yet giving into sleep in case she wanted to be up. It was their first full day being married after all, and he wanted to be doing whatever she liked.

“Yes I can wait.” She murmured, it wasn’t like they didn’t have time. “Don’t worry it’s not going to go anywhere, it’s all ours the whole time.” She knew they’d get plenty of time to enjoy it and relax in between. Snuggling into him she closed her eyes and sighed out and let her body relax.

Alex smiled when he felt her snuggling into him, and a soft breath left his lips as he allowed himself to start dozing off. It was a peaceful sleep, relaxing and definitely helping with the soft, pounding headache. When Alex woke up, he felt a little disoriented for a moment, lifting his head and glancing around until he realized where they were and what they were doing. He looked at Sophie curled up with him and smiled, resting his head back down and pressing a kiss to the back of her shoulder, unsure of whether she was fast asleep still or starting to wake up too.

When she woke, she knew they could go out and explore so she changed into her bathing suit in case they managed to go to their private indoor pool afterwards. Changing into a pair of warm pants and top she grabbed her jacket and tossed it on the bed before she walked over and reached over pressing her lips to Alex’s lips softly for a moment. “Come on baby, we should get up and explore.”

Alex dozed a little longer so when Sophie woke and got up, he was still lounging in bed and just stirred when her jacket landed on the bed next to him. He lifted his head and yawned as he looked at her. "Mmh, but the bed is so comfy," he mumbled with a grin spreading on his lips as he kissed back softly and reached his arm around her to tug her in so she'd fall forward onto him. She was already dressed in warm clothes to brace the cold so he let go of her and scrambled out of bed to get changed himself. "Alright, let's go explore. Just let's try not to get lost and be back in time for dinner," Alex teased. He pulled his beanie on and grabbed his jacket so he was ready to head out.

“The bed is very comfy.” She teased “and we get to use it the next few days to use the bed in a lot of different ways.” She grinned chuckling softly. When he pulled her towards her she laughed. “Come on lazy, time to get up we’re in the gorgeous French mountains.” She pointed out. Pulling her jacket she slipped it on zipping it up. “And if we get back we can use our private pool I have my bathing suit on under this to enjoy.”

Alex arched a brow when he pulled on his jacket and she let him know about the bathing suit she was wearing. "And you're telling me that after I'm already fully dressed?" He asked with a chuckle, but he wasn't going to get changed now. He grabbed the room keys and ushered Sophie outside and once the door was closed, he took her hand and led her to where he figured they'd get outside. They took a relatively long walk outside, exploring the area they were going to be staying the next couple days and they actually stopped to get hot chocolate before heading back inside. "Think we still have enough time to check out the pool?" he asked Sophie as they walked along the long corridor leading back to where their room was.

“Snooze you lose.” Meaning he had been asleep while she had been putting on the bathing suit that he could have seen. A laugh left her lips and a grin tugging to it. Not like they didn’t have plenty of time. After a long walk outside and grabbing a hot chocolate as they made their way back towards their private mansion of a cabin. “Babe it’s our pool we have all the time in the world.” she grinned as she took his hand and raised it up spinning under it like she was dancing. “So I think we can more than slip in to see it.”

As they walked back to their cabin, Alex let her lift his hand to spin under it and laughed softy. He decided to go with it, twirling her again before moving around her himself and pulling her to him as if they were actually dancing. "I meant before dinner," he clarified with a grin while she was flush against him and then he loosened his grip again to lead her the rest of the way to where they were staying. "You forgot to tell me about your plan to hop in the pool anyway, so I'm not wearing any swimwear." Not that he really thought that was a problem. He could always just wear his underwear, or decide skinny dipping was the way to go.

When he twirled her again, she giggled the sound of her heavy jacket swishing against his own as she brushed against him. “Well, you should be prepared at all times we have a private indoor pool, you should be ready at any time to go hop in.” she teased as they made their way into the room, immediately feeling the thickness from the chlorine and heat as she peeled off her jacket and clothes underneath to the tiny bathing suit she was wearing. “Look at that view.” she said of the full open windows at the one side of the wall that showed out in the distance.

"How was I supposed to know that?" Alex chuckled as they headed into the room that held the spacious indoor pool they would have privately just for themselves. He stripped off his jacket but Sophie was quicker and was already down to her tiny piece of a bathing suit when he had just managed to pull off his shirt. A grin curled onto his lips and instead of taking in the view through the window, his eyes fell on her and he took her in briefly. "It's a great view," he smirked before continuing to strip his clothes off to his underwear. "That's a huge window. Are people gonna be walking by that? That wouldn't be very private then, would it?" He questioned, just then really taking in the view the big windows offered.

“Well I just figured that you would think if we can have a whole pool to ourselves.” she teased. When she glanced over her shoulder at enjoying the view she saw him looking just at her and rolled her eyes. “Stop looking at my ass.” she teased, though she didn’t really mind she was wearing the revealing bathing suit after all. “No one can see us from what I can tell it’s shaded on the other side like those mirrors that are one way, only with windows, we can look out, they can’t look in.” which was nice if they wanted to skinny dip or anything like that.

"You ushered me to get dressed when I was literally just waking up. Can't expect me to think that far ahead just then, alright?" He playfully rolled his eyes. When she said the windows were shaded on the other side, he shrugged his shoulders and stripped down fully. "Good, because you didn't tell me to bring swimwear right now," he teased again as he headed for the water to get into the pool with her, a grin spread on his lips as he sank into the water and glanced around. "Oh, this is nice. Reminds me how great it's gonna be to jump in the pool in the summer." Thinking back at all the times spent in their own pool were great memories and Alex smiled softly at that.

A laugh left her lips, “Since when has me being bossy ever stopped you?” she teased but she knew she had rushed him along. “Gonna have to get used to it, I’m your wife now.” she grinned as he stripped out of all of his clothes, including his boxer briefs and waded into the water. She herself gave a roll of her eyes before heading in, she wasn’t sure why she was wearing the bathing suit given this white one became see through anyway when it got wet. “Well you’re keeping us pretty busy this summer babe, I mean I can stay home and enjoy our pool.” she grinned as she sank into the water and came up, the bathing suit now fully see through leaving nothing to the imagination. “It’s beautiful in here isn’t it? So relaxing, and just for us.”

"Never stopped me, but thinking's just not that easy when you just woke up." Once he was in the water, Alex moved further in the pool before turning around to find Sophie emerging from the water again and a grin spread on his lips once again as he took her in. "Very beautiful," he hummed, eyes still on her before he laughed and swam over to her. "I have no idea why you even bothered to put the bathing suit on," he said as he reached her. "I mean, it looks great on you but it also doesn't really do a very good job at.. doing its job." Not that he really minded. Though part of him figured he'd have to walk around the place sometime soon to make sure she was actually telling the truth about these windows.

When he said very beautiful looking at her, she giggled again. “Are you flirting with me?” she teased as he swam over to her. “I know but I figured white for you know married. Though I can always take it off if you prefer given you already stripped down to nothing.” she teased. “You know I know we talk about this from time to time, but this is kind of how we all started, a bit of water and no clothes.” she chuckled. “We were supposed to just be having fun and ends up having very hot sex…” she murmured. “And impregnating me.” Before laughing.

"That depends," Alex said as he moved towards her, "is it working?" He let himself float in the water, gently moving so he'd shift around her and shrugging his shoulders. "Me stripping down to nothing is totally on you. Had you wanted me to wear swimming trunks, you would've taken the time to tell me we may be going here after exploring. Now this is what you got." He was sure she didn't really mind though anyway. "I know. I vaguely remember," he teased, because of course he knew very well. "Think you lured me into a pond to have your way with me." He floated a little closer towards her, legs brushing hers under water before he leaned in to peck her lips. "And now here we are… four years later and you're stuck with me forever, officially and all."

“Mmm it might be working, you should keep flirting though.” she said because she knew that just because they were married didn’t mean they shouldn’t flirt with each other and find that magical feeling in between. “Well it’s not my fault you didn’t come prepared and didn’t think about it. I mentioned the pool earlier in the day prior to the nap.” she nodded. “Oh I /lured/ you? I seem to remember you getting into the water all too willingly and then helping me wrap my body around you until I was telling you it was okay to not be a gentleman when I could already feel how hard you were between my legs.” she quipped. Her lips pecked his. “Four years, three kids, and finally got the ring.” she teased with a giggle. “And I got to spend this last summer not pregnant.”

"Yes, you lured me," Alex laughed. "You were playing tour guide, said you knew the best hiking trail," he reminded her, a grin on his lips still had the detailed memories flooding back and he shook his head. After pecking her lips, his arms moved around her, tugging her in a little bit and he let out a soft, content sigh. "I'm very happy with the way things turned out," he told her softly, and honestly before so easily switching back to a more teasing tone, "but if we were to recreate that core memory, which.. is gonna be hard because we do not have a stone or anything like that to lean up against.. - I am not gonna get you pregnant again this time," he teased. "We're planning on going on a summer honeymoon later this year and I'm kind of looking forward to be a little tipsy with you."

“Definitely did no such luring you joined in all too willingly in fact.” she said, “I said I knew where a gorgeous pond was and you were down to see it. You didn’t have to get in naked if you didn’t want to.” she said. “Especially with a woman you barely even knew.” she pointed you. “You’re lucky you were so good at making me scream or it could have been far worse. Could have been an Instagram post of disappointing water sex.” before laughing and shaking her head. “I’m very happy with the way things turned out too, I know I’m meant to be with you.” There was no doubt in her mind. “There’s the wall of the pool that would have to work.” she pointed out. “and no, not getting me pregnant this time, for now.” she teased. “I want the summer wedding without having a huge bump and a very tipsy honeymoon together.”

"Well, I know you very well now. And I still really enjoy making you scream," Alex said as he pulled her in against him a little bit. He felt the fabric of her bathing suit against his bare skin and for a moment, he wondered how quick he'd be able to get it off. He shook that thought, for now at least, and leaned in for another peck to her lips. When he pulled back, he briefly turned his head to see where the nearest wall of the pool was before looking at her again, starting to float them towards the wall slowly.

“I think that’s a good thing given we just got married.” she giggled, “Though I am glad you haven’t gotten bored with being inside of me.” A lot of people sometimes got bored with the feeling of their partner and it had been a worry for her in the past but one he had always proven was so far from happening. His body started moving them gently through the pool before she felt her back hit the wall, very similar to the time in the pond, maybe a little less angled given she could lay back some but it would definitely do the job.

"You've got my official permission to smack me if I ever end up getting bored of being inside of you," he said as he started to move them through the pool slowly. He backed Sophie up against the wall and of course it was different than their first time together almost four years ago, so much had happened since then and truth was they were so much closer now than they were back then. Had Alex though they'd end up here? No, but he'd also never been sure of wanting to get married again and now this just seemed like the only way he wanted things to be. Once Sophie was against the pool wall, he leaned in to kiss her, not just a soft peck this time, but rather letting it linger.

“If you get bored of being inside of me there’ll be more than a smack… there’ll be a lot worse things.” Which she really didn’t want to think about because those worse things were like them no longer being together. He pressed her gently into the wall and she shifted to bring her legs around his waist like she had in the water all those years ago. It was crazy to think that was four years ago. His lips pressed hers and her wet hand came up to cup the side of his face and moved her lips with his.

"Well, that's not gonna happen," he said with a chuckle before pressing her gently into the wall and leaning in to kiss her. He felt her legs wrapping around his waist, her hand coming up to his face and he hummed into the kiss. He used one hand to hold onto the edge of the pool, keeping them close to the wall, while the other hand slid down her side, brushing over the hem of her bathing suit and then moved to her thigh, gripping her leg slightly as he deepened the kiss.

“It better not.” Not that she expected it, he wasn’t bored after four years, maybe he really would enjoy their love life the rest of their lives together. His hand moved to slide down her thin frame brushing over the bathing suit before pushing her thigh slightly to grip at her leg, feeling his tongue against her lips and parting it all too willingly and allowing his tongue entrance into her mouth and groaning at the taste of him.

Alex loved everything about Sophie and he really didn't see that changing any time soon, or ever. Especially not the physical side of things. Of course things had changed, they learned to read each other far better, tried new things, learned what they liked with each other, but the general feeling of wanting her never changed. The deeper their kiss grew, the more Alex felt like his head was spinning and he enjoyed that she had this effect on him. He only broke away from their kiss a bit to breath and between those little breaks, he murmured, "I think we're way past me thinking I have to be a gentleman right now." He chuckled softly before pressing his hips into hers a little bit, sure she could feel him and how this, making out, having her pressed up against him, was turning him on.

One thing she loved about Alex was that he was always so willing to meet her halfway. To explore things she had been interested in, not afraid to test boundaries that she would have been embarrassed by in the past. Sometimes she had those moments still, but he could read her so well. When the kiss broke, she felt dizzy in the best way, floating on air and happy. “Mmm I’d be so disappointed if you were a gentleman right now.” Sophie husked as he pressed his hips against hers to feel his hard length. “I don’t want you to be a gentleman. We all know I love when we make love, but I love it when you are anything but gentle.” A soft almost growl to her voice.

The low growl in Sophie's voice made him glad they were in the water because he would've feared to have his knees go a little week if this was them pinned against a wall, no water surrounding them. Alex moved his hand up her thigh, around her butt and then to the hem of her bathing suit between her legs. He knew he'd get several chances to undress her on this vacation and right now his goal was to be inside of her, not struggling to get the tiny piece of fabric off in the water. He moved it aside, revealing her bare core and so when he rolled his hips again, his hard length rubbed against her, skin on skin and so eager to be buried inside of her. "I can never get enough of you," Alex husked. He rolled his hips only a few more times to tease before letting the tip of his cock slide into her.

Licking her lips she felt him press her into the wall a tiny bit more, and she wasn’t sure if that was for her or more him. He didn’t seem to be wasting time when he shifted them and slid his hand down between them and pushing the bathing suit over to the side. The feeling of him rubbing against her with the moving of the water as she felt his hard length slide against her made her head fall back against the edge of the pool. “Mm good because I can’t get enough of you. And you can have as much of me for the next few days.” she murmured. “But wait till we have a longer honeymoon.” she teased before feeling his hips rock against her sliding in the tiniest bit. “Fuck, Al.”

"Mh, I think I want you for more than just the next few days," he teased, though of course he knew what she meant. They'd get all the time for just the two of them to just be together, enjoy each other and make the best of this time. He slid in the tip at first, trying to tease as he pulled back again and repeated that, but he only managed to do that a few times before he really felt like he couldn't wait to be buried inside of her, feel her around his length and so he rocked his hips again and this time, shifted enough to bury himself fully inside of her.

“Lucky for you I’m now your wife which means there will be more than a few days.” she giggled, because it was true they’d have their whole time together to enjoy. “But this is free uninterrupted time, not worries about toddlers walking in and interrupting sexy time.” she pointed out. He was teasing her, the way he pressed the tip of his cock into her and pulled out not quite giving her the satisfaction of being able to fully feel him. Thankfully he, himself, wasn’t able to hold back much either before he filled her burying himself deep inside and she cried out in pleasure his name.

"So lucky," Alex chuckled softly. He tried to tease her, he really did but then his own ache for her got the best of him. He loved the way she sounded when she cried out his name and his own head fell forward to place a few almost sloppy kisses against her neck and collar bone. "Oh, I love being inside of you," he muttered. "You feel so fucking good." He really only adjusted for a moment before he started thrusting his hips, feeling the way she so easily took him in.

“You’re a very lucky man.” she said grinning against his mouth. Even if she knew she was just as jealous. His mouth peppered open mouthed sloppy kisses against her neck. “And I love you being inside of me.” she breathed out, her hands come up and tugging through his hair making it wet as she gripped onto the wet strands. “Fuck yes.” she breathed as he thrust his hips. “Oh god, yes.” she breathed a hitch in her voice following.

He felt her hand gripping into his hair, her breathing hitched a little and he groaned against her skin before lifting his head to take her in, or as much of her as he could see. "Fuck, baby," he cursed under his breath as he continued to thrust his hips, the water splashing around them a little bit. He brought both hands down into the water, to Sophie's hips, gripping slightly.

There was always something about Alex being vocal when she grabbed at his hair. Given he didn’t like his hair being touched much. To have someone that was so into her that way. The water splashed around them and she could feel it move against her causing a friction as he pushed his hips into her again and again. “Fuck, Al.” she breathed out, her head moving to lean against his, their heavy breathing tangling against their faces. “God how is it I feel like I haven’t had you in forever and I just had you yesterday.”

"I don't know," he breathed as their heads leaned together. His one hand kept trying to hold onto the edge of the pool while his free hand grasped at her hip, sliding up her side, moving between their chest to find her breasts. As he leaned in to kiss her, his movements slowed a little, settling for a slower pace, but making sure to bury his length deep inside of her every time his hips thrust into her. He moaned into their kiss, deepening that and letting his tongue explore and taste her.

“Maybe I’m addicted to you.” she teased in heavy breaths. His hand continued to grip the side of the pool to keep them steady, feeling his other hand move from her hip to explore her body, finding her breasts. “Oh… oh.” she breathed out the feeling of him teasing them underwater a new experience as his mouth covered hers and his tongue tangled in her mouth and she groaned loudly.

The slower pace made it easier to hold them steady against the wall and Alex was happy to have Sophie's legs wrapped around him so that he could use his other hand to explore and not have to hold onto her. They were close together but there was enough room for his hand to find her breasts and he teased at them for a moment. His lips found hers in a heavy kiss and their groans mixed together as they were so tangled up. Alex let his fingers push at the hem of the bathing suit top, brushing the fabric away so his hand could tease at the bare breast, thumb twirling over her nipple.

It was a bit easier with them slowed down some. There was a bit more of a way to balance themselves, her legs still tight around him. Her tongue tangled with his before breaking the kiss to gasp for breath, her head feeling dizzy and tingly as she giggled out. His fingers pushed away the bathing suit exposing her breast before letting his thumb twirl over the hardened wet nipple. “Oh fuck yes.” she gasped out her arching some to press her breast more into his hand. “Harder.” she breathed, meaning his hand against her nipple.

Alex let out a soft laugh when Sophie giggled and he licked his lips that felt slightly swollen from kissing. He briefly considered taking the bathing suit off, but moving it aside was quicker and easier to get to touch and tease at her bare breast and so he opted for that. He let his hand squeeze lightly when she asked him to go harder and then his fingers found her nipple to tug and tease at it instead of just twirling his thumb over.

Her head fell back against the edge of the pool, feeling his hands continue to move against her breast. Then there was the feeling of him moving from brushing and twirling his thumb against her nipple to grasping it and tugging. “Al!” she cried out. “Oh god yes.” her eyes rolling back after having kids it was always one of her more sensitive areas and he had become well acquainted with that. “You feel so good baby.” she breathed her hand coming wetting his hair back and tugging at it. “Is it wrong I want you to take me out of the pool and take me on my hands and knees in front of the windows.” she breathed into the shell of his ear.

Alex let out an almost whined moan when she tugged hard on his hair again and he whimpered at the feeling. As protective as he was of his hair, he loved everything about the way she gripped at it. "Absolutely nothing wrong with that," he smirked, leaning in for an almost sloppy kiss before pressing his head against hers lightly and groaning softly. "I'm not fucking you in front of the window though before I went out there to make sure it's actually not just regularly see-through," he husked back, his lips finding a spot just below her ear to pepper a kiss there. He didn't pick up the pace, but his next few thrusts came a little harder and he breathed heavily at the feeling. "Once I did check the window," he then said in a husked, breathy way, "I fully intend to press you up against it to fuck you though," he smirked, nibbling on the spot on her neck slightly.

She knew if there was one thing Alex was, it was protective. He didn’t like the chance of people seeing her underwear when she wore skimpy dresses, there was no way he was going to risk chancing someone seeing them in their most intimate moments, let alone seeing Sophie naked and wet panting and crying in pleasure. He groaned after saying nothing wrong with it, which made her happy because she always worried about pushing it that one step too far, which she was especially trying to shake now that they were married. “Mm where’s your sense of adventure, no one can see us and no one is even out there to see us if they could.” A giggle leaving her lips, because she was more so teasing him. The next few thrusts were harder as if to make a point and she whined out her head falling back again. “Mm I believe leaving a steamy figure of me against the window will give away I’m getting fucked.” she teased. “But I’ll let you do it so long as you take me from behind in front of it first.” Almost making a deal with him. “Mmm I want you to let go baby, relax with me.”

"How about," he started, taking a breath between words as he thrust into her again, "I take you from behind /while/ pressing you against the window?" He was sure she could feel the smirk on his lips against her skin. "Just think about the view you'll have." His lips trailed up her neck and to her lips again, focusing on a heavy, passionate kiss for a moment before breaking away again. "We should have you turn around right now, so you'll have a general idea of what I'm talking about," he husked, his fingers tugging on her nipple again to tease a little more.

He thrust up into her and she cried out her name. “Taking me from behind while against the window?” she husked, “Mm is that view for me or for you?” she teased before head rolling back again as he thrust up. His fingers tugged at her nipple and she gasped out. “Yes please, god turn me around and show me.”

"Maybe it's just for the both of us," Alex said and really he wasn't just talking about the view. He was sure they could both enjoy that with or without the view. His hand dropped from her breast when she gasped and asked for him to turn her around. He let out a groan as he pulled back from her enough to slip out of her, his hands finding her waist to guide her to turn around, figuring she could grasp the edge of the pool to hold them steady as he pulled her hips back a bit into his own, his cock sliding between her lips before he adjusted to thrust back into her. The angle was so familiar, yet so different being underwater right now and Alex moaned as he buried himself inside of her again.

“For the both of us.” she breathed because right now she couldn’t fully concentrate. When he slipped out of her she whined at the loss of him, her body moving easily in the water, and grasping the edge. Her legs pressed against the wall to push her hips back as his cock slid into her with ease of the water, the feeling in water different. “Oh god yes.” she breathed as he filled her completely, fingers gripping the side of the pool unable to stop herself from grinding her hips back onto him obvious she was lost in the pleasure.

The moment they were reconnected, Alex felt her hips grinding back into him and he groaned at the feeling. His fingers pressing into her hips as he started thrusting his hips, settling for a pace and hard thrusts. The water splashed a little more around them again and it just added to the feeling. "So fucking good," he muttered, tugging her hips back into his own with each thrusts while she held onto the side of the pool, grasping at the edge. "Fuck, baby."

Her hips moved as best as they could in the water while also feeling like her body was overwhelmed with the pleasure of him buried inside of her. The water splashed up onto the side of the pool her hips pushing back to meet his as she pressed harder into him. “Alex;.” she gasped. “Alex I need to come.” she panted her body starting to shake hard against the wall knowing that she could easily tip over the edge.

It was a different kind of moving in the water than it would have been outside of it. But the splashing water added to the sensation and Alex felt that familiar feeling building up. When Sophie panted, he let out a moan and pressed her into the wall a little more, lips finding her ear and gracing his teeth over her earlobe. "Then let go, baby," he husked out into her ear, moaning softly because he knew she appreciated him being a little more vocal.

When he moaned into her ear she felt her eyes roll back and her body slip some into the water as she felt the rush of heat build and tumble over until she hit the much needed release of her orgasm, crying out again and again loudly, not worried about anyone hearing them and the moment they were having together as her body bucked slightly as she came hard around his cock, holding him incredibly tight between her walls.

Alex gritted his teeth trying to hold back as she came around his cock. Her walls were so tight he had to slow down his movements momentarily. "Yes, baby," he husked. "I love when you're screaming like this." And he definitely loved getting to be the reason for her crying out in pleasure the way she did. When he picked up the pace again, he started thrusting his hips quicker. Feeling his own release building up, he was panting softly, breathing hard as he let his hands hold onto her hips tightly while pushing her up against the side of the pool as best as he could.

Her walls were tight from the pressure of the water and him buried inside of her. The way he continued to move his hips pulling his cock in and out of her. Her body pressed up more against the wall, “Oh god my clit.” she panted the way he had her pushed up against the side it was making the wall press against the sensitive bundle of nerves her hips starting to grind against the wall with him moving in and out. “Yes, yes, yes, don’t stop.” she cried out as her hips pushed up into the textured pool wall and her head fell back to his shoulder.

"Soph," Alex breathed out as she started to grind her hips, pushing up against the wall and her head fell back against his shoulder. "I'm so fucking close baby, fuck... yes." He husked out, almost grunting at the feeling before he felt like he couldn't take it anymore. He thrust into her a little harder a few times before he reached his high and released deep inside of her, knowing this was so much less of a mess since they were already in the water.

The feeling was intense, the way her hips moved against the wall, her clit being stimulated without either of them as he pushed in and out of her hard. He thrusted harder a few times pushing her harder into the wall and she tipped back again her walls tightening as she found her second orgasm crying out as she felt him spill inside of her warm and wet. “Fuck. Holy fuck.” she panted. “You literally just made me cum against a wall.” she breathed. “God is that weird, please say it wasn’t weird you kept pushing me into it and it felt so good right there.” Taking his hand to her clit that she was sure he could feel was swollen. “Mmm we should get more creative that was hot.” she said letting her body sink into his. “Don’t pull out of me yet.”

Alex was breathing heavily as Sophie fell back against him a little more and found his hand to bring it down between her legs. "And here I thought it was just me fucking you," he teased, voice sounding a little breathy still as he laughed softly and pressed a kiss to the back of her shoulder. "Nothing to get you to get off like that is weird," he reassured her, licking his lips as he brushed his fingers against her clit a little bit. "Oh, I like getting creative with you."

“Mm you were the only one fucking me babe.” she laughed her words soft and sated. His lips pressed a soft kiss to her shoulder. “You just love seeing and hearing me get off.” she murmured with a soft giggle that followed as she leaned back into him. His fingers brushed her clit to stroke and she mewled. “Yeah? We have so much time to get creative.” She bucked her hips slightly at the feeling of his fingers still gently just caressing through her lips and clit. “We could add some things to play with.” she offered.

He was still buried inside of her and he loved the feeling, gasping softly any time she moved a little bit. He opted for slow, gentle movements against her clit and through her lips, curious to see how good he could make her feel again. "Are you suggesting we bring toys into the bedroom?" Alex questioned, a smirk spreading on his lips.

A soft hum left her lips when he moved gently his fingers against her. She had no doubt that he was tempting to see what he could make happen with the feeling of his fingers and water against her clit. Swallowing a tiny bit, “I mean… maybe.. not because we’re lacking anything.” she said quickly not wanting him to think that they were lacking or it wasn’t pleasurable.

Alex kept moving his fingers gently, but he got more serious the moment he noticed the slight insecurity in Sophie's tone. "I'm just teasing with that question," he said quickly and shook his head slightly. "I think it could be fun. Definitely helps with being creative too." He wasn't opposed to the idea, it could end up being a lot of fun and he made a mental note to look into what they could be getting. "Think maybe we should do a little online shopping later," he said with a smirk, pressing another kiss to the back of her shoulder. "See what we could be getting," he suggested, trying to make sure she realized he was perfectly fine with giving that a try.

Her body leaned back against his as his fingers continued to move gently against her making her moan softly. “It would definitely be more for creativity and not an all-time thing.” she said because she didn’t think it was needed all the time. “That sounds fun, exploring online together see what we both might like or what’s a hard no for one or both of us.” she said. “Would be far easier for us to order them, us going into a sex shop would end up all over online.” Something neither of them needed.

They were just floating in the water now, no more pressing up against the side of the pool, just Sophie's body resting back against his as he was still snuck inside of her, his fingers between her legs. "I think we should do that. It'll give us ideas," he smirked. His fingers started moving a little more, rubbing against her clit. "I mean, would be fun to go with you, but we really don't need that," he laughed softly.

They floated through the water, his fingers still teasing against the sensitive nub but letting their bodies also relax in the water. “I like that finding ideas to try.” Before a soft mewl came from her lips as she whined out him rubbing a little more against her clit. “Mm we don’t need the articles of us being at a sex shop, I just want to try some new things with you in bed.” she giggled before gasping. “Al.” the words falling from her lips.

"One of these days, we'll do a little shopping then," he said with a nod. A grin spread on his lips as she gasped out his name, his fingers pressing a little more against the sensitive nub and continuing to rub against her. His other hand moved up over her stomach, brushing the fabric of her bathing suit out of the way again to find her breast and teasing at her nipple once more, now almost eager to get her off again before they probably had to get out of the pool and ready for dinner eventually.

“Mm we could look online later. We’ll be far too tired to have another go tonight, I’m sure.” she teased. “Especially if you’re trying to get me off again.” Which she knew he was given the way his hand now cupped her breast and teased at her nipple, which she wasn’t complaining. “Al.” she gasped, “Right there.” she whined as his fingers stroked expertly with him still snug inside of her. “Right.. yes. Yes. Yes.” she panted her breathing coming out choppy as she found herself coming against his fingers her walls tightening around his cock still buried inside of her.

"Then it's just more ideas we're looking for tonight," he chuckled, a grin on his lips as she pointed out just what he was trying to do. Thankfully, he knew her body well enough to know how to touch and tease to get her off and he moaned out, a drawn-out sound when she came around his cock once again, walls tightening again around him. "Mmh, I love you so fucking much," he hummed as he dropped his hands finally and rather wrapped his arms around her to hold her against him. After a moment of just coming down and relaxing, he let out a content sigh. "We're all wrinkly now. And we should probably get ready for dinner."

“Well, we can order online babe, it won’t get here we’d have to take it with us while you tour which could be very fun.” she grinned at him. It didn’t take her long to find her release and hearing him say how much he loved her. A laugh left her lips, “I can tell just how much you love me.” she grinned before laughing. “We can get out, but my body is spent. Do you think they’ll bring dinner to our room?” Well at least the private building they were staying in.

They floated for a moment before Alex eventually shifted and slipped out of her. "And here I was looking forward to taking you out to dinner," he hummed, chuckling softly as they lingered a few more minutes before starting to get out. He knew if Sophie really wanted to stay in, they probably could get the food delivered, he really was leaving that decision to her though. They dried off and got dressed again before heading for the actual area they were staying in.

“Alright, alright we can go out, but you might have to carry me back afterwards.” she said as they got out of the pool and she fixed her swimsuit and pulling everything back into place. Wrapping herself in a robe they made their way back into the main area of the house and upstairs so she could start getting ready for dinner. “Do we have to get all dressy?”

Alex laughed softly and nodded. "I can give you a piggyback ride," he offered with a grin as they got dressed to head back into the main part of the cabin. He followed Sophie upstairs and headed for his bag to find something to wear. "We can just wear something comfortable. I'd just like to take you out for dinner," he told her. They didn't have to dress up big time, he just wanted to enjoy the dinner with her.

“Treating me out to dinner after getting laid.” She quipped playfully. “Look at you being so sweet.” As if he was anything but. She dressed in a simple skirt and top that wasn’t overly revealing and got herself all set before slipping on heels. Nothing overly fancy but good for a nice dinner out. “I’m ready.”

Alex playfully rolled his eyes before moving to actually get dressed himself. He tried to fix his hair so he wasn't wearing a hat while out for their dinner, but eventually he settled on leaving it a bit of a mess. "You look beautiful," he said with a smile and wrapped his arm around her waist to tug her into his side a bit. "I'm very lucky," he told her honestly and pressed a kiss to her temple before slipping his arm back around to reach for her hand instead and lead her to the door. "Let's go, I'm actually starving.

His arm wrapped around her and she blushed. “Thank you.” She pecked his lips. “Mm you are but you know I’m pretty lucky too.” Which she meant. “So long as you didn’t knock me up in the pool just now because of that happens we’re never having sex in water again we’re too lucky.” She teased taking his hand. “There better be pasta I’m thinking a good Alfredo.” She hummed. “With a side piece of steak oh and the largest goblet of wine.”

"Oh no, I don't think that's happened," he said with a shrug and then shook his head as they laced their fingers together to head out. He opened the door and lead her outside, chuckling as she went on about all the food she was going to want to have and he could already see her sitting in her seat doing that little happy dance before digging into all the things they were gonna have for dinner. "A goblet of wine," he repeated. "Sounds a bit like the goblet of fire, doesn't it? Maybe we should rewatch Harry Potter tonight."

“If it did no more sex in water. No pools, no ponds, no hot tubs, you’re far too good with aim.” She teased though she really wasn’t worried about it. She had been on this birth control since Delphine was born and no scares or anything. Giving a roll of her eyes. “Haven’t you heard of a goblet? Like a glass…” she made a gesture with her hands and rolled her eyes. “You’re being an absolute arse.” She quipped. “Oh, Harry Potter rewatch can we pick up snacks?”

"I'm too good with aim?" Alex laughed. "Think you may have been playing a role in it too." He wasn't really worried though, they had been good with the birth control Sophie was on since Delphine, it seemed to work for them. "Hey, how am I an arse? I'm just saying," he said as he led her outside and they walked off to where dinner was served. "I can't carry you and snacks back here." Of course, they could probably order several snacks to be delivered to them.

“Yeah, but you’re the one aiming your stuff so it’s really more all on you.” she teased even if she was involved. “You’re mocking me.” she said sticking her tongue out at him playfully. “Sure, you can. You carry me on your back and you carry the snacks in a bag in your hand, seems pretty simple to me!” she retorted.

Alex just laughed and tucked her into his side, lifting his arm to wrap it around her shoulder without letting go of her hand as they continued to walk. "How about we just order room service for the snacks later?" He suggested. "We don't know how hungry we will be after this meal." It wasn't a long way to get to the dining area and once they arrived, someone greeted them and lead them to where they would be seated. Alex pulled out Sophie's chair before sitting down on his own and he leaned back a bit to relax, a smile on his face as he looked at Sophie, fully expecting her to pick up the menu immediately to see if she could be getting all that she was hungry for.

Leaning into him she smiled, it was the simple things like him putting his arm around her that she really loved. “Going to dinner with my /husband/ that is kind of the coolest thing.” she giggled almost like a teenager would. Once they were brought back to a private area and Alex pulled out her chair she sat and took the menu and scanned through it. “Oh, they have everything I want.” she said. “Think I’m getting the filet mignon with a side of alfredo pasta, extra creamy.” she rambled off. “Now are we thinking red wine, white wine? Do you want wine at all?”

"It is pretty cool, isn't it?" Since he had been married before, this was something Alex had done before but this was Sophie, she was his wife now and that just meant ultimately way more than anything he'd experienced before. He realised in small moments like watching her immediately reach for the menu when they sat down for their first fancy meal as a married couple, that this was it for him. He felt so much more at home than he ever had with Lisa, and there was not a single doubt in his mind that there'd be a time where Sophie wasn't gonna be his wife. "I think red wine sounds about right, don't you think?" He picked up his own menu to find something he wanted to eat, knowing he had to pick quickly so they could order soon.

“The coolest.” she said with a smile because she really was loving it, being married to Alex. It was something she wasn’t sure back when they first started dating, she would ever get. So the fact that they were there, married, three kids, just living and loving life, was pretty damn cool. Everything with him felt safe, she didn’t feel judged immediately listing off all the things she wanted to eat or hearing anyone scoff just because she wanted steak and pasta for dinner. “Red wine sounds wonderful.” she nodded. When the waiter arrived, she ordered an expensive bottle of red wine for them in French before he was off and she turned back to him. “So.. what are you getting for dinner? Anything special?”

The waiter came over and Alex figured Sophie was already ready to order, but she settled for the wine first and he smiled. "Well, unlike you I don't know how to decide on anything," he chuckled. "Steak does sound good, but maybe I should just let you pick for me," he shrugged and leaned back in his seat a little bit while putting the menu down on the table in front of him.

“Oh no? I mean there are a lot of good choices to be fair. I just know I’m craving what I’m craving.” she chuckled. “Pick for you? That’s just a bad idea if you don’t end up liking it I’d feel bad so think you’re on your own babe, at least I ordered us wine.” she grinned. “good thing I know how to speak French huh?” as the waiter returned and poured them each a hefty glass of red wine before taking their order, her ordering in French just because she knew it and liked the sound of it sometimes.

Alex playfully rolled his eyes, but he settled for something on the menu before the waiter returned to pour them some wine and take their orders. "Are you trying to show off?" he asked with a smirk on his lips when the waiter was off again. He picked up his glass of wine and held it out so she would tap her glass against his. "Sounds hot," he grinned at her.

“Am I trying to show off?” she asked, “why would I be doing that?” she asked chuckling softly. Once the waiter left after she picked up her glass when he did clink them together. “Sounds hot huh? I can do that more often if you like.” she teased, “To being married.” she said softly before taking a sip.

"Cheers, to being married," he said with a smile and then took a long sip of the wine before setting the glass down again and leaning forward a bit. "Are you gonna flirt with me speaking French?" Alex question with a grin. "I'm not gonna mind but keep it simple so I have a mere chance of understanding what you're trying to say. Or you're gonna have to teach me a few words first."

When he leaned forward, she continued to hold her wine glass in her hands and grinned before speaking in French to him. Of course she had said something along the lines of I can do that if you’re going to enjoy it. Though she wasn’t sure he was going to understand that. “So are you saying I should stick with the basic oui?’ she chuckled. “But if you want me to flirt with you French I can definitely do that.”

Alex's eyes lingered on Sophie's lips as if that was going to help him understand what she was saying but he just shook his head amusedly. "No idea what you're saying, but keep talking," he chuckled softly, licking his lips. "I want you to flirt with me in any language you decide to speak," he said honestly because while listening to her speaking French was hot, so was the idea of them still flirting, four years into their relationship. It really kept things fresh and interesting sometimes.

When he said he had no idea what she said she laughed. But continued to speak in French to him in a low but seductive voice. “I will have to behave the rest of the night anyone overhears me that might end up being a problem.” she quipped so he could understand her. “But I can continue that later.” she offered. After all she knew flirting was healthy in their relationship married or not. To keep things fresh and exciting.

Alex hummed softly, eyes glued to her lips until she switched back to speaking English and he chuckled softly. "Fine, let's keep it PG right now," he smirked and picked up his wine to take another sip. Their food was served soon after and Alex took a moment to watch Sophie with a smile on his lips before digging into his own dish. They chatted over their dinner, and since it wasn't so late, Alex wasn't surprised when one of their phones buzzed with a video call from their parents and a crying Noah. He seemed to miss them and only cheered up a little bit, no more crying put pouting out his lower lip when he saw his parents on the screen. "I promise we'll be back soon, buddy," Alex said softly, though he knew chances were the little boy was just tired and therefore whining and crying for them. Willa, who apparently was away too, seemed to have heard their voices now and you could hear the padding of little feet on the floor before a squealed "Daddyyyyyyy" announced her arrival and the phone almost dropped to the ground when their eldest daughter tried to grab at it.

“PG for right now.” she said chuckling though she didn’t mind flirting with him in French or English to be honest. Once their food was served, she took a small forkful of the pasta and took a bite before wiggling in her seat at how delicious it taste. “So good.” she whined out because pasta was always going to be one of her greatest loves. the rest of their dinner they talked, flirted, laughed, and just enjoyed their time together drinking a bottle of wine before the phone rang and they found their little boy crying on the other end. “Oh mummy’s little boy.” she cooed. “You look so sad.” frowning at how sad he seemed but she was sure he was just overtired with everything. “We’re only gone a couple of days baby and you get to play with grandma and grandpa.” she said. Hearing the screech of their oldest daughter she rolled her eyes with a grin as she yelled for her daddy as she grabbed the phone. “such a graceful child just like her daddy.” Sophie teased holding the phone. “Hi Willa are you having fun?” she asked. “Noah keep crying he’s annoying.” she retorted. “Now that’s not very nice.”

 Dinner was really nice and Alex had a great time. He got his phone when it buzzed and very clearly their kids demanded a little bit of attention which they both happily focused on. Date night or not, their kids would always come first. Noah was whimpering and crying and pouting out his lower lip while they tried to soothe him and then within seconds Willa was grabbing at the phone and Alex chuckled softly. "Hey, I'm more graceful than that," he argued, but then their daughter was complaining about her brother and Alex shook his head lightly. "Hey, don't be mean to your brother. He's tired and sad because he misses us. We miss you too, but try to be nice to him. Give him a hug," he offered. "We promise we'll be back in just a few more days."

She was really glad she had opted to go out to dinner that night instead of staying in. They deserved to go out and feel special at a fancy restaurant. Of course when their children were on the phone it was about being mommy and daddy not husband and wife which was okay with her. They loved their children so much. Chuckling when Alex was telling her to be nice to her brother. “But he’s so loud.” she sassed and Sophie burst out laughing and covered her laugh. “It’s okay grandma will put him to bed soon and you can get some snuggles but bed soon okay?” she said blowing her a kiss and Willa did the same. “Night baby girl. Night my little boy.” she said waving.

"I'm sure if you try giving him a hug he'll stop crying," Alex offered to their daughter who started to seem a little intrigued by that. You could see her glance at Noah, who, when she turned the camera to move towards him, was still crying. He looked tired though, so it was clearly being overwhelmed from fighting sleep and tiredness getting the best of him so when Willa actually gave him what looked like a hug, he buried his face in her chest and rubbed the tears away against her shirt and while it was a messy moment in a way, it was also adorably cute. "There you go, princess," Alex said with a smile before they said their goodbyes and Sophie's parents swooped up the phone to wish them a good night and then call ended and Alex chuckled amusedly as he picked up his glass of wine to finish the rest of it. "I don't think Willa has any idea how loud she can be."

When Alex convinced their oldest to hug Noah it was adorable. She knew that the little girl wasn’t the best with emotions she was still learning at only almost 4 years old. She was excited and trying to always go, go, go. “Look you are helping him calm down you’re such a big girl.” she said because she really was. they said their goodnights and wished her parents a good night as well, as well as luck hoping that he’d calm down once he got some sleep and could fall asleep. Once the call was ended she picked up her glass too, “Do you expect anything less from Willa.” she laughed. “You realize she is so much like you. I don’t mean that as a bad thing either but she really is.”

A grin spread on Alex's lips as he finished his glass of wine and then shrugged his shoulders. "Except when she does her little food dance. She totally got that from you," he told her, given he had just witnessed that exactly when Sophie started eating her dinner this evening. Alex glanced at his empty glass and the almost empty one in Sophie's hand and nodded his head towards it. "You want some more wine?" They were done with their food and Alex was currently trying to decide whether there was room to have dessert, or they should just settle for snacks ordered to the room.

“I didn’t teach her that.” she retorted, “I mean that’s like the one thing she got from me her love of food.” Chuckling softly because she knew the little girl did it but Sophie often didn’t even realize she was doing it. It was just a habit at this point if she really was enjoying something. “I would love some.” she said gesturing towards the bottle. “We have the whole bottle to ourselves we should enjoy it.” Especially given it was expensive. “Then we can decide on dessert or waiting for room service and watching harry potter back at our tucked away private cabin.”

"Oh and where do you think she learned it from?" He asked with a grin. Picking up the bottle, he refilled their glasses until the bottle was done for and nodded slowly. "I was thinking about dessert. Maybe we can get something to share? Feel like it would be a waste to have a dinner this good and not settle for dessert," Alex thought out loud.

“I mean I didn’t purposely teach her, she either naturally does it and it just comes from me. Or she watched me and learned it that way.” she definitely hadn’t taught it to her because she didn’t realize when she was doing it half the time. “I think I could be happy with that’s sharing a dessert together and then when we settle in back we can order some snacks from room service if we’re gonna do some Harry Potter snuggling.”

"It's really cute the way you do it," Alex smiled. He loved seeing her so genuinely happy and excited about something, especially when it was obviously such an honest reaction, one she barely even noticed herself. They motion for the waiter to bring them a menu so they could pick a dessert to share and Alex read through their option. "Should've brought the glasses," he murmured as he squinted just a little bit to read the menu. He didn't wear them as much as he probably should, often he settled for contacts, sometimes he really just opted to be a little bit blind. "Harry Potter snuggling?" A chuckle left his lips as he looked at her questioningly. "How did watching the movie turn into it being a whole snuggling thing?" He was teasing, he didn't mind cuddling at all.

“I really don’t even notice it half the time. It just happens. I love food, especially if it’s pasta.” Which he already knew. When they got the menu she laughed, “Okay grandpa need me to read you the choices.” she teased sticking her tongue out at him. “Though you should you’re so hot in glasses.” which was true. “Harry Potter snuggling is a thing you know. And if you don’t want to snuggle me, I’ll snuggle the pillow.” she retorted.

"Actually, why don't you just pick," Alex suggested and arched his brow a little at her comment. "You think it's hot when I wear the glasses?" He questioned as he put the menu back down. He'd happily settle for anything Sophie wanted for dessert, so really she could pick whatever she wanted. He laughed when she said she'd snuggle the pillow. "Well the pillow's not gonna keep you as warm as I can." He radiated heat constantly, so he wasn't even making this up. Plus, he'd be happy to have her close and snuggling to him anyway.

When he said for her to pick she chose something delicious and handed back the menus as they sipped on the last bit of wine he had poured into their glass to finish off the bottle. "I mean the pillow might not keep me warm but a blanket will." she said chuckling. "If you don't want to snuggle with me during Harry Potter than I have to make due with what I can. At least until I can get one of the Phelps twins to snuggle me." she teased knowing he would scoff at that completely.

Alex let out an unhappy grunt at her comment and shook his head. "I never even said no to cuddling up for the movie," he reminded her as he sipped on his wine. "No Phelps twins for you." He knew she was messing with him, but she also so easily poked that jealous part of him so easily and had him grimace a bit at the idea.

“You said how did watching turning into snuggling which seems like you are saying no to snuggling.” she offered at his unhappy grunt. Watching him wrinkle his nose. “I said one of the Phelps twins do you think I’m weird enough to take both… that’s just weird even I wouldn’t do that.” she said rolling her eyes. Though she knew it was more the jealous side of him as she finished off her wine. “Mmm that wine was delicious wasn’t it?”

"Mh, you were so reading into it," he chuckled softly, because he hadn't meant it that way at all, he'd only been teasing a little bit. "How about none of them?" Alex suggested before admitting, "I don't really like to share." He knew Sophie was well aware of that even though he always tried (and failed miserably) to hide this jealous part of him. He simply wanted Sophie all too himself, and he already had to share with the kids after all. Their dessert was served and they dug in, Alex really only taking a few bites before letting Sophie have the rest of it.

[Sophie | Alex]

It was one of those days out in London where Alex was just running out for some errands and ending up strolling around a bit. He found a record store he couldn't pass by and Sansa, who had taken to make sure she got a decent idea of how to behave in more public places with occasional crowds of people, was doing so well too. He was almost ready to head back home when he ran into Brittany who he went to school with way back as a wee little boy still living just outside the city of London. He knew there was no rush to head back, Sophie was out, busy with some work stuff and the kids were with her parents, so he agreed to grab a cup of coffee to catch up some. What he didn't realize was that one of Sophie's friends was around and snapped a picture of the old friends catching up. "Alright, I gotta head back. Think I'll surprise Soph with some take away so we don't have to cook," he said with a chuckle as he gave Brittany a brief hug and then headed back home. On the way, he stopped at a place he knew Sophie would like to bring some pasta dishes home for dinner. "You were such a good girl," Alex cooed as he finally returned to the house and let Sansa off to run into the house. "Babe?" He called for Sophie. "Soph, I'm back and I brought food!"

As of late Sophie had feel unsteady in things again. Prickling jealousy, seeing the things pop up about the boys upcoming year of more things that would be busy and women commenting how hot he was and how he was never spotted with Sophie anymore. It came on the cusp of seeing her ex now with a model, back to his old habits and comparisons of what he really wanted compared to his ex and the doubt it brought to her of what she could give Alex. Of course she tried not to show Alex this because she didn’t want him to think she was so insecure but the thing was it felt like she was getting worse. Today wasn’t the worst he had gone out but one of her friends texted her photos of Alex hugging a woman, sitting out getting food, his hand on her arm at one point asking what the hell was going on? It was just like what happened in the past. She broke down into tears it was a full repeat of what had happened to her with her ex and in the same time just about four years. That was all she was good for before she was boring. Sniffling she packed a bag planning to go to her parents when he got home. When he got home, she stormed down the stairs. “You know you have some nerve if you didn’t want to get married then you shouldn’t have asked me.” She said. “If you wanted to end this I said to tell me but instead you go out and cheat.” She said hands shaking and it obvious she had been crying. Taking the ring off she pressed it into his hand with the bags of food. “I’m going to my parents. I can’t do this again. I… I can’t do this again.”

When he got home, Alex figured Sophie would be happy he brought food and they didn't have to stand in the kitchen and cook but could just dive into take out and relax. What he didn't expect was her storming down the stairs, practically yelling at him and before he knew it, she was pressing the ring he got her about a year ago into his hand. "What? What are you talking about, Soph.." he started. He put the bags of food down on a shelf where they usually put their keys and turned his full attention on Sophie. He reached for her hand to give the ring back and stop her from going off. "What the hell are you talking about? I'm not cheating. And I don't want you just storming off to your parents either."

When he reached for his hand, she pulled her hand back from him. “I can’t do this again. It’s the same thing all over again.” She said. “It started with working more and then sneaking around with other women.” She said shaking her head not taking the ring back. “I can’t go through that again. I won’t survive it again.” In fact this would be worse what she felt for Alex was so much more than her ex. “I just… if you wanted something else you just had to tell me Alex. If I don’t deserve that much our kids at least do. Our /three/ kids deserve better.” She said as she took out her phone with the photos. “It’s fine. Do what you have to do. But I want to go to my parents.”

Alex raised his brows when she told him about sneaking around with other women. He definitely wasn't doing that and the woman he just met, he didn't even have a chance to tell Sophie about yet, he just got back home after all. How would she know anyway? "Sophie, I don't know why you keep thinking that I don't want you because I do, and I-" it wasn't until she held her phone out to show the pictures that he realised someone must've told her before he could. "Oh, so you see pictures now and believe people telling you whatever?" he asked with a sigh. "That's an old friend from way back when I was going to school here and I literally ran into her when I was out. If you could let me come inside and not immediately yell at me, I could have told you about all of that," he told her. Sansa was whining at his feet, but he ignored her to focus on whatever this fight with Sophie was." I am not interested in being with anyone but you and I don't know why you just won't believe me on that. I only want you and you are more than enough for me. I'm not bored with you, and I'm not getting tired of you. I want you. For the rest of my life I do."

Her emotions were getting the best of her. Things with her anxiety were getting worse and she realized that when it came to her relationship with Alex. Which wasn’t even his fault. There were new posts online comparing her exes new model girlfriends to her and why they should have seen why they’d never work. Why it should have never worked out… and it just rang in her mind that it was telling her she was the problem. She was never going to be good enough. Not a good enough partner, not a good enough mother. Her insecurities had all but tripled since all of this. “You were running errands but those errands suddenly involved meeting up with an old friend.” she spat back at him. “No text to say oh hey I ran into an old friend going to be out a bit longer, but someone spots you and suddenly I just believe pictures. Seems pretty damn bloody cozy to me.” she said as her phone fell out of her hands and it bumped her fingers causing the articles that had been sent to her about her ex, all the comparisons to pop open on her phone. “You say that.” Her voice deadpanned. “They all say that.” she murmured shaking her head tears slipping down her cheeks. “You’ll get bored of me, I won’t be enough in the end.” she shifted awkwardly before turning back away from him and slowly walking into the living room to grab whatever she had put in there.

"I ran into her Sophie! I knew you were busy and was ready to tell you all about it once we were sitting down eating the food I brought us," he tried to explain but it didn't really seem like she was listening. She wouldn't take back the ring and he felt it heavy in his hand, like that just wasn't right, wasn't where it was supposed to be at all. "I mean that," he corrected her before reaching down to pick up her phone while she was walking off to the living room. He only got a glimpse of what was on there to realize how that must've been messing with her head. Sansa nudged him and he patted her head briefly before starting to follow. "I want you to take this ring back, what am I supposed to do with it? I gave it to you because I want to marry you, nothing has changed about that at all. There's only you and I only want there to be you. How many times do you need me to say it because I'll repeat it over and over again for you."

Her emotions felt all kinds of out of sorts, and she knew part of her needed to maybe go back into a more extensive therapy. She didn’t expect comparisons to her ex’s new woman to hurt her as much as it did. Then comments of her not being seen with Alex as much, or only him being seen with the kids meant this or that. That Sophie only had a ‘four year’ term on her was one of the articles. Moving through the living room she shook her head. “I can’t go through this in six months or a year or whenever you decide your life is too suffocating and you need to just be the rockstar life.” she said trying to push him away. Though it was like everything gave out as her legs gave out and she crumpled to the floor in a ball of tears her hands holding her face as she finally let herself cry out the emotions, there was no doubt there was some depression seeping into her even being happy to be back in England, Alex knew she was prone to it and all her mind could think was he’d regret it now.

"I can be a rockstar on tour and still have you and our family," Alex said before she was on the floor crying and he rushed to her side. "No. No, okay. Get back up." He pulled her up as best as he could to pull her into his arms. "I'm not going to get bored of or with you. I'm not gonna change my mind about our family and all that we have," he started and let out a soft sigh. "Sophie, I've never been more sure about anything in my entire life, okay? I want you to marry me. I don't need years to know I want you to be my wife. I know this right now and I know that's not going to change either."

Once she was on the floor crying it was like the flood gates had opened and every thing she held in was pouring out as she sobbed heavily to the point of heavy heaving gasps. His arms pulled around her limp body pulling her back up onto her feet her body just falling into his as she cried into him. Even if she was hearing it she didn’t know how to believe it. “I’m only good for four years.” she said. “I’m only good enough for four years and we’ll be together four years this May. Then things will change just watch.” her words hiccupped still crying into his shirt making it damp with her heavy tears.

"That's not true," he said softly as he held her, swallowing hard at how heavy her tears came and he let out a quiet sigh. "I want you for way more than four years okay? And I don't care who tries to tell you any different. I want you. And I'll keep telling you that whenever you need me to." He rubbed her back with one hand, the other wrapped tight around the ring so it was more like a fist pressing into her back. "I want you to believe me, baby."

Sophie didn’t know how to feel settled in this, and it wasn’t Alex’s fault, he had always been supportive, he had always been there, but she was pushing him away so she wouldn’t get her heart broken again later in life. So all she did was let herself cry her body hanging against his which was obvious she needed to sit down or lay down whether on the floor or the couch. She wanted to believe him she did, she wanted nothing more than to be with Alex but her mind was screaming so loudly at her.

For a moment, Alex just held her. Unsure if she had even been listening to him because she didn't say a word. He had to hold her up mostly with how she just slumped against him, but he wasn't going to let her go. "Soph," he said softly after a moment. "Will you please just marry me?" he said, as he looked at her. He wasn't sure he meant right now, right away, no more waiting or at least only as much as it needed to get an appointment. He was so sure of wanting her that he would marry her on the spot.

She sniffled when he said would she marry him and she looked up at him. “I already said I would marry you when you proposed to me almost a year ago.” she said, that hadn’t changed and she wasn’t expecting some proposal all over again if that was what he thought he had to do or anything. “I know someday that’s what you want I just… I don’t feel.. I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I’m sorry.” Not realizing what he was really asking.

Their eyes locked for a moment and he brought his hand with the ring up to use his thumb to wipe away some of her tears. "No," he said and shook his head slightly. "I know you said yes but I didn't mean someday. I want to marry you now. So will you marry me?" he asked and shifted the ring in his hand so he could hold it up in front of her face for a moment.

When he clarified that he wasn’t talking about someday but instead he wanted to get married now she looked at him holding up the ring in front of her. “Alex… I…” she was completely confused. “I don’t want you to feel like you have to marry me to make me feel better.” Thinking maybe that was the reason he had never given any kind of timing for when they might even think about marriage. “I.. I want to be married of course I do but I don’t want you to do it because you feel like you have to.”

"No, no. I don't feel like I have to do anything," he said with another shake of his head. "But I've never been more sure of anything in my entire life, I've been trying to tell you that. I don't want you just taking this ring off because something got in your head and I want you to know I'm right here and not leaving, no matter how much you think I am going to. I'm not. You're stuck with me and I want to be stuck with you, okay? So please," he said, holding the ring out again, "will you marry me?"

He clarified this wasn’t just to make her feel better or because he felt like he had to do anything. That he felt so sure about this which was so calming to hear that he for once felt calm about it, that he was the one so sure about things when normally it was the reverse way. Holding the ring out he asked again and she felt more tears as she nodded. “Yes.” she said. “Yes, I’ll marry you.” she murmured.

"Stop crying," Alex chuckled softly but it was more of a tease as he took her hand to put the ring back on. "I love you, Sophie," he murmured and reached up to cup her face, then leaned in to kiss her softly, a salty kiss with the stains of her tears on her lips. He placed a few kisses on her cheeks, as if trying to kiss away the tears before returning to kiss her lips. "The food is gonna be so cold right now," he chuckled softly, but he wasn't ready to let go of her just yet.

He slipped the ring back on her finger where it belonged. “I love you Alex.” She said. “I’m sorry I am not handling things better.” She admitted that she wasn’t talking to him more instead of letting it blow up. His lips pressed to hers in a kiss and she leaned into him. His lips starting to kiss away the tears and she knew deep down Alex was the only one for her. “We can rewarm it.” She said. “Can we just… sit on the couch together.” She murmured. “I mean we’re not going to go out and get married right this second right I look awful.”

"It's okay," he said softly and honestly he meant that. Did he think that maybe she needed a way to keep more focused despite shit thrown her way? Yes. Therapy was probably a good idea, it was working for him too in a way, but that didn't make anything less okay. He gave a nod and then started to move to the couch with her, pulling her down with him to sit. "You look like you've been crying but that doesn't make you less beautiful," he offered with a smile. "I'd marry you no matter how much you would've been crying."

She gave a small, tiny chuckle when he said he’d marry her no matter how much crying she had been doing. “Well I’d still like to look a little more put together.” she admitted. They got over to the couch and she curled up into him. “My parents wanted to keep the kids tonight maybe that’s a good thing.” given how emotional things had been and she never wanted to bring their kids into something like that. “So when do you want to get married then?” she asked more just curious.

"Alright, I want you to feel good too, so I'll take that," Alex said with a small grin. They settled on the couch and it didn't take very long until the dogs came to curl up with them. "Any time that works for you. I wasn't kidding when I said I'd marry you right now. Though this isn't Vegas and we have to probably make an appointment at the register office, so we can see when there's open spots?"

A smile appeared on her lips when he said he was serious that he’d marry her right now. Though he was right this wasn’t Vegas and that they couldn’t just get married like that. Not here they could probably in the very near future though. “We could call in the morning, make an appointment for the soonest one.” she said, “I don’t think I want to wait if you’re ready I’m ready.” she said and she meant it. Even if she had been ready to walk out the door minutes before because she was scared to lose everything. “Are we going to tell anyone? Have anyone there. I mean we’ll basically be eloping.”

"Yeah, we can pick the soonest one," he agreed. It was probably good to just give the office a call in the morning, see what their options were and how soon that would all go. "Do you want anyone there? We could just do it with our parents, even though I know mine were just here a month ago. Or we could ask our closest friends to come?" He thought out loud.

“I don’t really care what we choose, parents, no parents, friends, no friends. So long as we’re getting married and you don’t change your mind between then and now.” she said looking up at him. “I mean I’m sure the boys might be a little hurt if you didn’t at least ask them to come though. I know I would like to throw a wedding someday… at the farm. Make the perfect big wedding for the whole team you work with, that I work with, our friends, families, and extended families but right now as long as I get to become a Gaskarth I think I can figure anything else out.”

He raised his brows slightly as he reached for her hand to play with the ring on her finger. "Hey, you were the one giving me back the ring when I came back in here," he reminded her, but quickly leaned in to press a kiss to her temple. "I'm not gonna change my mind," he promised. Of course the boys were gonna be hurt if he didn't say anything, so he nodded. "Yeah, I can talk to them, ask them if they want to come. So close friends now," he said, including whoever Sophie would want of her friends to be there, "and then big wedding on the farm? I still don't have the full schedule for the year yet, but maybe there's time in the summer."

“I thought you were cheating on me.” she said, “I wasn’t going to be with someone that might cheat.” Though she was embarrassed to think that he would ever do that to her, the mother of his children. “They don’t have to I know Annie will want to be here which means Zack will be here at the very least, and she knew that Jack would show up so Rian would probably be the only one she didn’t know depending on his plans that he currently had. “Big wedding on the farm would be beautiful, and private.” she said. “Summer sounds good, and you know what that means? Two honeymoons.”

"How about next time you get this crazy idea I might be cheating on you, you talk to me before giving me your ring back?" He suggested. "Plus, I'm not gonna cheat on you." He knew that if Annie was coming, Zack was going to be there too and neither Jack nor Rian would miss it. "Two honeymoons?" He asked, smirking slightly. "Do we have time for that? Who's gonna take the kids?" He chuckled softly. Sansa shifted besides them, resting her head against his leg now and on their other side little Penny June was curled up.

“I’m sorry I just lost it when I got the pictures and you looked so touchy with her.” she admitted. “I didn’t want to think you were capable of being like him.” Which she knew deep down he wasn’t but didn’t mean she wasn’t struggling. “I’m struggling with things again the comments since he started dating someone and the comments and comparisons that the press is making like I’ve moved on with someone else, I’m a mom to three kids why do they have to bring me up?” she asked curling more into him. “I mean a short honeymoon after this one my parents, my brothers, they would all help out, and then after the big wedding well.. we will just have to figure it out.” she said as they were surrounded by two of their youngest pups.

"I'm not like him, Soph. Because he's an idiot for letting you go and I refuse to do that same mistake, alright?" His arm wrapped around her a little tighter when she curled more into him, his other hand reaching out for the dog to pet her gently. "Have you thought about talking about that more?" Alex asked, "therapy can help you with struggling. I don't think people are gonna stop comparing you, because that's just what some people do with their lives but I'd like to see you being less affected by it."

“I know you’re not and I need to stop but I get to this point I don’t know..” she admitted. His arms tightened around her and she appreciated that he was trying to make her feel as secure as possible. “I need to, I’ll call my therapist and tell her I need to start having more sessions… would you be open to going to some sessions with me maybe we can find a way to communicate together or that we can be aware of each other if I’m spiralling or if you’re struggling even?” she asked. “I know I just wish they didn’t… I don’t want to be brought into that anymore.” she said because that was her past. “So… we’re really gonna get married? Like I’m going to be Sophie Belinda Gaskarth soon?”

"Of course. If that helps any, I'll come with when you need me to," Alex said with a nod. "And I know, people suck but you can't let that get to you so much again, okay? He's out there doing whatever shit he thinks he needs to do and people are always gonna come back to how you dated. But what's important is what we've got right now, yeah?" He leaned back a little and chuckled softly. "As long as you didn't change your mind about last names, yeah that's gonna happen. Mrs. Gaskarth," he hummed softly.

“Yeah I would like that. Sometimes I’m bad at opening up.” Which he knew well, “And maybe if you can see some of the signs too we can avoid it before it happens.” He was right at the end of the day all that matters was them right then and there. “I mean I’ll keep Turner for my stage name, but I legally want to be Gaskarth.” She said nodding and smiling when he said that. “I love you.”

"Yeah, it's definitely worth a try. Whenever you want me to be there, I'll be there." Of course he hadn't expected her to change her stage name, but it was a nice thought to have them all have the same last name, the kids, him and Sophie. "I love you too," he said with a smile. "Now can we please heat up the food because I'm absolutely starving.."

“You’re the best.” she murmured softly knowing that he’d do anything to try and help and she really was a lucky person to have a partner who was willing to be involved. A laugh left her lips when he said he was starving “Normally it’s me who’s starving but yeah come on, what did you get to eat we’ll heat it up and sit maybe by the fire. Have a romantic night since we’re getting married officially.”

"I barely had anything to eat today!" He argued with a chuckle. "I had a bit of breakfast and then I really only stopped for coffee, so food is much, much needed." He smiled and pressed a kiss to her head again before starting to shift so they could get up. "I brought pasta dishes; I knew you'd like at least one of them but there's a few different ones so we have options. And there's surely gonna be leftovers too." Alex slipped off the couch, leaving the dogs confused, and hurried back to the hallway to grab the bag of food he had left there. He carried it into the kitchen to finally unpack the boxes of take-out food and spread them on the counter. "How about you share us plates of pasta and heat them up and I'll go set up the fireplace so we can get cozy?"

“You didn’t eat while out with your mistress?” she grinned a little bit trying to make light of how she had been earlier. “I mean you could have at least fed her.” When he mentioned he had bought pasta dishes, “Why didn’t you start with that?! You know I love pasta.” she scoffed as if he should have known better as she headed out to the kitchen and started getting stuff to warm up the food he had brought home originally as a surprise. “That would be great I can do that.” she said as she pecked his lips and got to warming up the food making sure their plates had a little bit of everything topped off each with a piece of garlic bread before coming back into the room a good fifteen minutes later. “Food is ready and smells absolutely divine.”

He playfully rolled his eyes. "No. I didn't even pay for her coffee," he told her with a grin before they were up and moving to get the food ready. "I tried to tell you there was food but there were things we had to figure out first. So yeah I know you love pasta that's why I tried to surprise you with it," he chuckled softly as he watched her for a moment as she pulled out dishes she needed to heat the pasta up. Alex was then off to the living room to start a fire in the fireplace and by the time Sophie brought in the food, the fire was crackling away nicely. "Does smell really good. God and I'm so hungry," he chuckled. "Wanna watch a movie while we eat?"

“Pasta is always a way to my heart but when I’m that upset nothing will really fix that.” she admitted. She was beyond emotional. When everything was ready and the fireplace was going she was so thrilled to sit down and eat because she was now quite hungry. “I’m starving.” she murmured too nodding, “I was thinking what if we dug out a board game and played a game while we eat we can hold the plates in our lap if we need to.”

Alex considered her suggestion. He loved lazy nights just watching tv but game night was a great alternative. So he nodded as they settled their plates on the coffee table in the living room. "Yeah, I actually like that. Any game you do want to play? Something easy or one of those strategical games?" he asked, raising his brows questioningly. "I did get this one the other day because it looked fun, hold on," he said and was up and off to find the game 'Dorfromantik' he had bought a little while ago, figuring there'd be a time they could try it out. "Should we give this a try?" Alex asked as he returned. "I do think we're gonna need a lot of space on the table though."

She was happy when he seemed into the idea of a game night. Not everyone would have been or would have thought it was silly and to just put a movie on to cuddle up with. She was more glad that he was willing to do things like this every so often. When he brought out the game she looked up. “That looks cute. I think we should try it.” she said nodding moving her plate more onto her lap as she sat cross legged. “We can bring the table closer to us and that way it’ll make it easier while we eat.”

"So I don't exactly know how to play but there's a video you can watch to learn the rules. Should I just put that on?" He questioned as he settled across from her, grabbing his plate of pasta and taking a bite. He really was hungry, and this pasta was absolutely delicious. They watched the little explanation video on his phone and then set up the game, all while devouring the pasta. It was easy to get into how the game worked and since it was a building game with each game going differently the more things you got, they ended up playing for several hours. Eventually, Alex had to stifle a yawn and stretched a little bit. The dogs were passed out all over the living room, scattered around them, the fire in the fireplace was slowly dying and it was getting really late.

“A video is a good place to start, figure that will give us what we need to know.” Sophie reasoned giving a nod as she opened the box and continued to eat their food in between setting things up. Whatever pasta place he had gone to, or whatever food place he had gone to they were going to have to consider going again because she was enjoying it. After a few hours of playing she looked up to see Alex yawn and the dogs asleep as she shifted. “Mm I think we should probably go to bed.” she said. “we can clean this all up tomorrow.” she offered knowing that they’d probably regret that in the morning but honestly laying down sounded like a good idea for her back and neck.

Alex nodded tiredly when Sophie suggested they go to bed and then took in the game that was spread out on the table. "Would be so much easier, but I think we might have to put it away. Don't wanna risk one of the dogs chewing on any of this," he murmured and started to put things back into the box. He didn't so much as organize it but rather just threw everything in so he could put the box away and when they were done, he got up and groaned a little bit. "Oh laying down is gonna be so good," he chuckled softly, rubbing his neck and shoulders a little bit as the dogs too started to rise from their spots.

He made a good point if the dogs ate something from knocking it over they would be taking them to the vet and that would have traumatized Sophie so they cleaned up everything and got everything set away before heading upstairs. “I’ll go get the bed ready if you want to take the dogs for one last potty run.” She said before pecking his lips. “I know we sat up and half hunched over for way too long.” She laughed softly before heading upstairs and changing into a nightgown and pulling the bedding down and getting the bed ready for bed and nice and comfy and cozy.

As sleepy as the dogs were they were better off with one more potty run so there weren't going to be any accidents at night. "Alright, come you rascals, let's get you out in the cold before we all go to bed," Alex called for the pups and headed for the back door. Sansa was the one who stayed out the longest, she really didn't mind the cold as much, but eventually she too came back inside. Alex shivered a little and shook himself before hurrying upstairs to find Sophie in their bedroom. "I'm way too old to sit hunched on the floor all night," he chuckled as he walked up behind her, hands coming to rest on her hips and him leaning in to press a kiss to her shoulder. He smiled as he stepped back again to walk around the bed, stripping his hoodie off and starting to change into his pjs before climbing into bed.

Alex was gone for a bit and she figured one or more of the dogs were enjoying being outside in the cold and snow. She’d find it amusing if it was Sansa given her character was Queen of the North where it was so bitter cold in the show. The irony in letting her finally name a pet Sansa. When he came back up she was just putting a few things on the nightside table. “Well you’re not old, my shoulders and neck hurt too it’s not good for our bones to sit like that.” she said honestly. When his arms wrapped around her she smiled feeling his cold arms and lips on her skin. “Oh you’re cold.” she giggled. Once she climbed into bed she snuggled under the blankets. “So… tomorrow..” she licked her lips, “You’re sure, calling to make an appointment, get our marriage license, set a date with the courts…”

"It's freezing outside," he commented when she said he was cold, a soft chuckle leaving his lips as he watched her crawl into bed and then moved around to change and get in as well. "Yes," Alex said simply as he slipped under the blankets and shifted down until he could rest his head on the pillow and hum softly at finally laying comfortably. "How many times are you going to question me?" He asked, a small grin curled onto his lips as he turned his head to look at her, his eyebrows raised. "I told you I'm sure about this, I'm not gonna change my mind over the span of playing a board game," he teased.

“Enough to be absolutely sure you don’t wake up in the middle of the night in a panic saying what did I just do and make me all panicked myself.” she said. She didn’t want him to change his mind and she knew marriage had always been a hot button topic with him. “You went from it’ll happen someday to let’s get married now and you know that’s just … I wasn’t expecting it.” she murmured. She snuggled over to him. “No going back once we have the license and date. You have to tell the boys and then in a few short days or weeks I’m gonna be your wife.” she murmured. “And we need a little honeymoon.”

"Yes, sure enough," Alex laughed as she shifted towards him and he wrapped his arm around her. "Four years into this, I thought you knew I'm more about impulsive things than planning anything long term," he murmured, which really was true. A year ago, he had gone from not sure if he wanted to get married again to finding himself in a store getting a ring to propose and he had never once regretted that since. "Are we going to tell anyone else? I mean Annie, obviously, whoever you want to tell of your close friends?" He said, his hand resting against her arm and running up and down the length of it mindlessly. "Do we tell our families right away?" He questioned, eyes lingering on her and offering a smile when she mentioned a little honeymoon. "Where do we wanna go?"

“I know you’re impulsive I just don’t want you regret this later one because you know we’ll be married by then.” But he seemed so damn confident in everything which was a surprise. “I mean we can’t not tell our parents we got married.” she said their parents were going to be heartbroken if they didn’t find out. “Do you mean beforehand or after?” she asked. “Part of me wonders like do we make this just for a few friends so it’s more like eloping or do we see if your parents can come in. I do want the big wedding later on like we said and feel like they will be there it’s just will they be upset?” she asked. When he asked, “I… somewhere close but not England.” she shrugged. “What about… Paris?”

"I won't regret this. Stop questioning me so much," Alex murmured, tugging her in a little more. "Yeah, do we tell them before or after? Do we want them there too because I feel like if we tell them but don't ask them to come with, they're not gonna be so happy with that," he said. He knew his parents would want to be there. "So if we tell them before, we're gonna have to make sure my parents get to be around. We could also just ask them to stay at the house with the kids while we're off on a trip," he said, a grin spreading on his lips, "to Paris apparently." He was teasing of course, he'd go just about anywhere with her and if she wanted to go to Paris who was he to say no to that?

“I’m sorry I mean you can see how I was earlier I can’t help that I’m nervous because I’m also excited.” she said but she knew he wasn’t the type to say something to take it back to hurt her. “Think that his something we definitely have to go and consider because just telling them oh by the way we’re married might upset them. We could tell them we’re getting married legally.” she said “and that we plan to have a big wedding this summer.” she offered but she was still unsure she never wanted to hurt their parents but she was sure her parents would understand. “Isn’t Paris like the most romantic place we could possibly go for a mini honeymoon.” she quipped. “We can’t go too far given you are going to make this year super busy.”

"I think maybe we should call in the morning, see what day is possible first and then figure out how much time we have until then and if it is possible to get my parents here in time. We can say we just want closest friends there but then have a celebratory dinner with the parents?" He suggested with a small shrug, turning his head a bit so he could look at her better with how they lay curled up. "Hey," he chuckled softly. "You don't get to celebrate being in a band with your best friends for 20 years all that often. Yeah it's gonna be a busy year." Though he knew she really didn't mind, or at least he was sure she wouldn't blame him anyway.

“That sounds like a good idea.” she said get the dates first before they went telling everyone and having everyone all riled up. Celebrate with the friends at the wedding and a dinner with the parents sounded nice. “Well I mean our friends might want to celebrate too so if we got married early enough in the day we could have a nice early dinner with our parents and party with our friends at night?” she suggested. “You don’t get to celebrate getting married all the time either.” she teased, “and I don’t know about you but I don’t plan on getting married again after this.” she was really teasing him. She was excited for him and the band as she snuggled into him.

"That doesn't sound so bad, does it?" He nodded slowly. That actually did sound like a good way to spend the day, get a little celebration in, maybe have their parents take the kids so they could leave for that little honeymoon the day after. When she said she didn't plan on getting married again after this, he playfully rolled his eyes. "Except for a big party in the summer." He chuckled and shifted to lay more comfortably in the bed. "Plus, it was a long time coming, this 20 year anniversary. Marrying you the same year is an added bonus," he smirked slightly before he leaned in to kiss her cheek and then rest back and let out a content sigh.

“No it doesn’t.” she said it all sounded wonderful to celebrate with their friends and their family. Then one of their parents could take the kids while they went on their little honeymoon. “This is our smaller honeymoon. So plan that in the summer we’re going to have a longer honeymoon. A lot of not leaving the room.” she grinned. “Oh I’m just the bonus. Not the best thing this year?” she giggled softly. When he sighed out contently she laid her head on his shoulder. “Babe? We’re getting married.” she said before unable to stop a happy squeal.

"A longer honeymoon? Where are we going? Somewhere where it's warmer than Paris in the winter?" He asked, a grin spreading on his lips before she giggled. "You're the cherry on top," he said and honestly, he really meant that. His life currently really was great, and getting to marry her was definitely topping it all off. "I know," he let out a laugh at her happy squeal. "And we'll be able to know a date in the morning, but we should probably sleep soon to get to that, yes?" Alex smiled as he glanced at her, snuggled into him and really this was so much more comfortable than sitting crouched on the floor.

“Fair point but we don’t really have the time to go somewhere warm for our shorter honeymoon before needing to get back for your stuff so I thought Paris would be the best cause scenario.” Given how busy they’d be. “I mean I figure are we going to want to go somewhere hot in the summer?” she asked. When he said to find a date they would need to actually sleep she chuckled. “Okay, okay.” she said snuggling down. “I love you.

"I did mean for a summer honeymoon," Alex said amusedly, though he knew they had time to figure that out. Between all that was coming up workwise, they'd be busy after all and needed to find and make time for that anyway. "I'd like to actually do a summer vacation. I suppose we can be doing touristy stuff, but I don't mind laying around on the beach or by the pool with you," he said with a grin tugging on his lips. He brought his one hand up to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear when she snuggled down a little more. "I love you too. I can't wait to marry you," Alex murmured softly before closing his eyes.

“A summer honeymoon in the summer. I mean if you don’t like Paris we could see what the weather in Greece is gonna be like?” She offered give them some more Mediterranean type weather. “As long as one of these places I can go topless by the beach or pool. Without you freaking out.” She said grinning before snuggling down and closing his eyes.

"I never said I didn't like Paris," he laughed softly. "We can go there," Alex then added to make sure she knew he was perfectly happy with that. "You know I will regardless," he chuckled. With how comfortably they lay curled up, it was easy to fall asleep and Alex happily dozed off into a very peaceful slumber. They did shift some time during the night, like they did most nights and when he woke up, Alex found himself sprawled out beside Sophie, arm lazily draped over her. He stifled a yawn and rolled over, away from her before starting to wake more and reaching for his phone to check the time. It was early, but well enough into the morning that offices were open, so he glanced back at Sophie, smiling as he saw her sleeping still and then he peeled himself out of bed, taking his phone and padding out of the room and downstairs to start some coffee while getting on the phone.

They had been up late the night before so once she fell asleep, she was exhausted. She slept and like always they moved around a bit and she turned to lay on her stomach sleeping happily. It was the first night in a long time that she slept peacefully. She didn’t even notice when Alex got out of bed. It was probably another 90 minutes before she woke to find the bed empty and got up stretching and sliding off the bed and pulling a robe over her and heading downstairs. “Babe?” She called heading into the living room.

Once he was downstairs and started the coffee, Alex let the dogs out and gave them their food before he started to get on the phone. He was just in the kitchen filling up his mug with more coffee while talking to someone on the phone when he heard Sophie's voice. He moved his phone away from his mouth for a moment to call back to her, "in the kitchen!" and take a sip of his coffee. "Yes, thank you," he said back on the phone and waited another moment, nodding his head and glancing up when Sophie came into the room. "The 15th? Yeah, I think that should work, hold on one second," he said and once again moved his phone away from his face a little bit to turn his attention on Sophie. "How's February 15th sound to you?" Alex asked and then, as he realized that could be a little confusing, he added, "as a date to get married."

She heard him yell he was in the kitchen and followed his voice out there and the smell of coffee. When she saw him on the phone, she tilted her head before hearing him ask about February 15th. “What about..” before he clarified, “Yes. Yes. That would be perfect for us.” She said nodding because at least it wasn’t Valentine’s Day. “Gives us enough time.”

Alex nodded again when she said that would be perfect for them and got back on the phone. "So yes, that works for us… yes. Thank you so much. Have a good day," he ended the call and then grinned at Sophie. Moving around the island counter, he grabbed a cup of coffee from the cabinet and poured Sophie some coffee as well before moving towards her and holding the mug out. "Good morning," he chuckled before leaning in to peck her lips. "We're gonna get married February 15th," he announced like she hadn't just heard him on the phone at all. "How'd you sleep, baby?"

When he got off the phone she smiled as he held out a coffee for her. “Morning babe.” as he pecked her lips. “We’re getting married on February 15th.” she said. “That’s right before my birthday, talk about one hell of a birthday present.” she grinned. “We have to get wedding rings… or well… you don’t like wedding rings. At least for yourself.” she said as she took a sip of her drink. “I slept really well actually, best in a long time if I’m being honest for you.” Licking her lips, “Do we start to tell our friends so they can make plans?”

"How about we don't consider that your birthday present?" He chuckled softly before taking a sip of his own coffee and leaning back against the kitchen island counter. "I say we give it another couple hours before we tell them. With the time difference, they're probably all sleeping right now." He bit the inside of his cheek briefly before adding, "as for wedding rings. I told you I'd get one as long as there's no obligation to wear it all the time." He swallowed and busied himself with another sip of his coffee. He had a wedding band before and it felt impractical to him. He was always worried about losing it somehow, he did live through a moment where it slipped off on stage and he almost did lose it. He wasn't a fan of that whole concept but he knew it was important to Sophie so he would not refuse to get one.

“Alright, not my birthday present but can the honeymoon be it or no… the shopping on the honeymoon that can be my birthday present.” she said grinning from ear to ear. “That makes sense.” It was early there so all those in the US were definitely still asleep. “What about my mum and dad?” looking up “Do you want to wait and tell them until we can kind of call everyone at once?” She was just kind of floating on happiness in the moment. “No I know.” she said softly, “It’s not like we could wear them for long after the wedding anyway.” she shrugged. Wedding bands had always been important to her but she understood he didn’t feel the same way. “Well we don’t have to look at them right now we would have to go online anyway. We have time.” she said before taking a sip of her coffee. “You know how about something good for breakfast? Pancakes? French toast?”

Alex laughed softly. He adored Sophie, especially in moments of pure happiness like she was oozing right now and he couldn't help but put his cup of coffee down on the counter so he could move over, cup her face and press a kiss to her lips. "Anything you want to get while we're out shopping in Paris can be your birthday present." He grinned at her before moving back to lean against the island counter and pick his coffee back up. "We can tell your parents, I don't think we have to tell them all together. My parents should be up early so we can call them in a couple hours, then see if we get the boys all together on a video call," he said. "We can go online, or we head out to where I got you the engagement ring," he suggested. Maybe they could find something to go perfectly with the ring she did have on her finger. If they were getting rings, and there really was no doubt they would, he wanted them to be perfect for her. Finishing his coffee, he moved to head for the fridge. "What are your thoughts on a full English breakfast?" He suggested instead, raising his brows questioningly before opening the fridge and pulling out what they'd need for that.

“Then that can be a great, wonderful shopping in Paris? Hopefully you don’t come to regret that later.” she teased before chuckling softly. She nodded when he said they could tell her parents. “Think that would be best, you realize when we Facetime all the boys again they’re gonna think you’re about to tell them I’m pregnant again just like we did the very first time.” she laughed. “Yeah we can go out to the little store to look for a wedding ring for me.” she said it made since they would probably have something that would work perfectly with the ring he had gotten her. When he said full English breakfast she raised a brow. “Oh a full English breakfast. That include beans on toast too?”

"I'll tell them right away you're not pregnant," he chuckled softly. "We will have breakfast before telling your parents though, right? Or do you want me to make breakfast and you can give them a call?" He asked, already pulling things from the fridge. "Is it a full English breakfast without beans on toast?" Alex laughed softly. He filled his cup with more coffee before getting pans and plates and anything he needed to get started making a big, full breakfast for them. "Maybe we can head out to the store today before we head to your parents to pick the kids up?"

“You better start with that before even saying hi because they’re gonna come up with that right away.” she giggled softly shaking her head. “No we can have breakfast first and then call them. They’re probably having breakfast themselves and I really rather us both tell them than just me.” she said because she would. “That sounds good going there picking something out we can always say we need it if it doesn’t fit properly sooner because we want it before we go back to the US.” it made a reason in case any information got out.

"Did we every decide on a time we were picking the kids up anyway?" They easily fell into a routine making breakfast together. Alex liked cooking but he enjoyed it even more if it was something they both did together. They could talk while moving around each other, working hand in hand and he made a mental note to make something like this a date night sometime soon. Maybe they could make pasta from scratch or something that would keep them busy for a while but was totally going to be worth the work.

“No my parents don’t mind when we come to get them but I did say we would pick them up today.” Which she was excited to get some snuggles from all of them. “Are we going to tell the babies, that we’re getting married? I mean will they even understand.” Willa might but kids could sometimes blurt things out and they didn’t want that either. They continued to focus and work on their breakfast while chatting before it was finally done and she set the table and made sure their plates were full. “This looks so good.” and it really did, not to mention everything smelled delicious at least to her.

[Sophie | Alex]

Christmas had always been a time of year where Alex spent a lot of time in crowded places. With Lisa, the holidays had been time where they invited friends and family and it was just a little more crowded now, but definitely more relaxed. Thankfully Sophie enjoyed a full house as much as he did, so when it came to Christmas dinner, it was a whole lot of family coming over. On the 26th though, it was the first time in a couple days where it wasn't a full house anymore. Sophie's family wasn't coming over that day, Alex's parents were headed back home to Baltimore and Annie was in Hawaii with Zack. It was just going to be Sophie, Alex and their kids now and since it wasn't raining for once (it had been a very rainy week so far), Alex figured it was time to grab the kids and get the dogs on their leashes to take them on a walk. "Should we just go out here and explore the countryside around or should we drive out somewhere?" He asked Sophie as they were cleaning up the breakfast table and putting things away in the spacious kitchen. He passed her with a few empty plates he was going to put in the sink and smiled as he caught a glimpse of the necklace, he'd gotten her for Christmas. A simple chain, with the letter 'A' on it, obviously inspired by one of Taylor Swift's songs he knew Sophie liked.

The days were crazy with Christmas and the kids were spoiled with love and presents, they had had the best time and loved having both Alex’s parents and her parents there to celebrate Christmas with them and their kids. The children had loved every minute of attention from all of them, ripping into presents, knowing that Delphine was at an age where ripping open the presents were something she enjoyed but she didn’t understand the concept at all of what they were doing but Noah and Willa understood and just were having so much fun. With everyone now leaving and having some peace and quiet she was looking forward to getting the kids back into a more normal routine. The sweetest gift she had gotten was the little Tiffany necklace from Alex with his initial around her neck getting the reference from Taylor Swift and it meant a lot to her. “I think exploring the countryside would be nice.” she said. “Let the dogs walk, get Sansa on a real nice walking routine on her lead” she said. “Can put Delphi in her carrier on my back so she can fall asleep if she gets tired.” Obviously if she wanted to walk for a little bit she could.

"She's really gotta learn how to walk well when on a leash," Alex chuckled softly but nodded. It would be nice to get them all out, and power through for a bit so they could have a long nap time later that day. He put the dirty dishes away and stopped when he passed Sophie, leaning in for a kiss and offering a smile. "So you get the littlest one and I get all the dogs?" he laughed playfully, but he agreed it would be good to carry Delphine when she got tired. "Let's get them all bundled up, still grab the raincoats so we won't get wet in case it does start raining again, and let's go?"

“She’s been doing good on her lead, she’s just excited when she sees birds and other outside animals, she thinks she can make friends with everything.” Which then lead to pulling and attempting to run which she didn’t want to encourage because heaven forbid Willa was holding onto the lead one day and she did that and slipped and hurt herself. “Pretty much.” she chuckled. After getting Delphine settled into her carrier on her back and she was happily playing with a small toy in her hand and the kids were all in their raincoats and boots, and Sophie in her own wellies she was ready to head out and onto the long road that led down into the small town.

"We love that she's so friendly," Alex reminded her as they all dressed up in their raincoats and boots. Delphine was happily settled on Sophie's back and was talking and babbling while holding her toy, Noah ran outside the second the opened the door and jumped into the first puddle he could find and Willa was right there by Sansa's side, reaching out for the lower part of the leash to hold onto that while Alex held the end of it. "Daddy, I hold Sansa," she kept saying but Alex tried to explain that they still had to train with her a little bit more before she could. "Do you want to hold Peyton though?" he suggested and eventually she settled on doing just that. "Sansa, here," Alex said, tugging her back a bit until she was by his feet and looking up at him instead of every little other thing that was out there. "There we go, yes, such a good girl," he cooed with a smile as they continued on to walk down the road into the small town.

She knew how much Willa loved Sansa and wanted to be able to play with her and kind of take lead with her, but she was much too small to be able to take her for walks, even as a puppy and not being big or full size yet she was far too energetic and not trained enough that she could pull her down. Though with Peyton he knew when the little girl was holding onto his leash and was so easy going and gentle. Watching Alex, she knew she was doing such a good job with her training she was proud of her as they continued to walk into the small town nearby. “You know I love that we can go for walks here and we’re not going to be hounded by photogs.” she said sure maybe there’d be someone who might snap photos who would get out, but it wasn’t like New York or LA or busier places.

Sansa was eagerly learning new things and Willa was always there to try and help but things like taking her on walks was something Sophie and Alex needed to do. Peyton often walked without any leash on because he was great when they called him and he was so gentle with the kids that Alex knew Willa was safe walking him instead and that seemed to give her enough to do on their walk. He smiled softly as he glanced over and nodded. "Yeah, I know. It's nice to be able to go out and not have to worry so much." Of course, people noticed them, but there wasn't so many paparazzi around here or the farm as there were in bigger cities, and the small town they were now heading for really wasn't a big paparazzi hotspot either.

“It is, and the kids can walk and run around without their faces being all over.” she said, which still happened when they had to go some places because they were bigger now you couldn’t hide them but here, they could just be kids. She loved being there. Delphine squealed and waved her arms around with the toy all excited and playing and she laughed. “They love it here too I think.” Sophie was definitely more relaxed than ever. Though that didn’t mean she didn’t love the farm because she did. This was just that recharge she needed by the time the new year started. “Can we stop in a few places and pick up a few things we need in town.” The small shops were some of Sophie’s favorite.

Alex knew they could do that on the farm too, but with how exhausting things had been the last couple weeks or months really, he was happy to see Sophie so relaxed right now. Delphine squealed and Noah was off jumping into puddle after puddle and Alex chuckled softly. "They do, don't they?" He smiled as he looked over. "You realize we have all the dogs with us? We can go in wherever they let us with all of these," he pointed at their dogs, "and if they don't, yes I can wait outside so you can go in," he added with a grin. "Just as long as you promise we get food somewhere before we head back because I don't feel like cooking a big meal today."

Noah was jumping into every puddle they came across in his tiny little green wellies and she couldn’t help but laugh. He was having fun that was all that really mattered. He wasn’t getting all muddy thankfully with the boots and raincoat. “Yes, but a lot of places here are dog friendly.” Which was true, could even sit out and have a cup of coffee in a lot of places with your pets in the right places. “But if not, I can run in while you watch the dogs and I’ll take the kids.” Which was just as much of an adventure. “Yes, we can get food for dinner somewhere or pick it up at least.” She said. “I don’t feel like cooking either.”

They continued their walk into the small town and the dogs seemed to settle into a pace with them and the kids. They passed a shelter on their way in and stopped at a few stores before eventually finding a place to grab some food, offering a secluded area for them to be with the dogs and the kids and they actually ate there rather than bringing food home with them. "Do we wanna go anywhere else or head home?" Alex asked after they paid and as they got the kids bundled up again.

After grabbing some food, and the kids were happily full they decided to head back. She was glad so many places were animal friendly around their area living more out in the countryside area. Once they were headed back, they walked by the shelter again and Noah ran for the door. “Doggies!” he squealed and Delphine was already starting to fall asleep on her back back her head jerked up. “Noah!” Sophie called after him as they headed after him.

As they walked, ready to get back home, Willa was busy holding Peyton again while Percy was by her side even if she wasn't holding his leash and Sansa trotted beside Alex, tired from all the walking and all the impressions and it was Noah who spotted the shelter and saw the dogs playing outside. "Ohhh no," Alex murmured as Delphine's head jerked up and Willa spun around too. "Noah, no, we've got a whole lot of dogs here already," Alex tried but their son was off and so they followed him towards the door. "They love animals way too much," Alex muttered jokingly as he caught Noah's hand to pull him back gently but he had already knocked and caught someone's attention. "We wanna see doggies!" Willa said, holding Peyton's leash still while pointing to the playing puppies.

Noah was already off like a rocket and heading towards the building where he could see the animals playing outside. “Wonder where he gets that from?” Both of them really, Alex loved animals given he had been so keen to let them bring home Sansa, and she had brought home the mini cows… they loved animals. Willa was already yelling they wanted to see doggies and she laughed and the woman opened the door. “Oh well hello! We would love for you to see some of our do—“ and stopped when the woman looked up and spotted Sophie’s face. Sophie gave a sheepish smile. “Hi.”

Delphi started babbling for doggies too as someone opened the door and was just ready to greet them when she then spotted Sophie and really was taken by surprise for a moment. "Hi, I'm sorry, the kids really wanna say hi to the dogs if that's alright," Alex chimed in, playing his free hand on Sophie's back gently and offering a smile.

They spent a good hour or so with different dogs, before they kind of spent a lot of time with one very cute ginger colored puppy. “She was dropped off, family couldn’t take care of her.” the woman explained. They continued to play with her, “She’s really cute.” she said to Alex looking up at him and she noticed that the little ginger colored puppy that almost looked a little bit like a fox was curling up with Peyton which she hadn’t seen him really do as of late with the dogs.

"The poor thing," Alex murmured as he watched the puppy move around. She was so curious, but very gentle and she seemed to get along so well with the other dogs too. Sansa was passed out by Alex and Sophie's feet and Willa was sitting with her, patting her mindlessly. Looking over, Alex smiled as he saw the cute puppy curled up with Peyton. "She really is," he said, just taking a moment to watch how well they seemed to get along. It was nice to see Pey make friends, especially since he hadn't really had that with Baz even though they grew up together and it didn't really develop all that much with Sophie's dogs. Sansa just liked the kid’s attention more than curling up with the other dogs but this was really cute. "Think we should head home now?" Alex asked after a good amount of time spent with the dogs. He knew the kids needed some time to relax before going to bed or they'd just be too tired to walk all the way back, and Alex really didn't want to be carrying two kids all the way home.

After a long time together, they agreed it was time to go and it was harder than expected, Noah had a bit of a cry fit not wanting to leave the puppy behind and they promised to come back and visit again. The woman said the puppy wouldn’t be leaving right away since they just got her in so to stop by if the kids wanted to come see her again. So, they started heading back home and got home and settled in. Getting the kids settled in front of the tv with a movie on and a little snack, the dogs were all passed out from their long walks and she had to admit she was happy to curl up with a cold soda and relax for a bit before getting the kids to bed. “Well, that wasn’t exactly a planned stop but think the kids had a good time, at least until Noah’s little melt down.”

"He acted like he never got to hang out with dogs," Alex said amusedly and chuckled softly. He was slouched down on the couch, eyes on the tv but not really watching what the kids were watching. He took a sip of his soda and then glanced over at Sophie. "Keep thinking about that puppy. The ginger one," he murmured.

“He’s little he gets overexcited and doesn’t know that they’re not all his.” she said as the kids sat on the floor watching the movie cuddled up in their Christmas blankets. She was surprised when he said he kept thinking about the ginger puppy. “Oh? Really? I’m surprised…”

"We can't have /all/ the puppies," Alex chuckled softly. He couldn't really blame him though, dogs were wonderful, which they all thought that, or they wouldn't have four ones currently spread out around the living room. "You're surprised?" he repeated, raising his brows a bit but then shrugging his shoulders. "They said she was given up because they couldn't take care of her, but she was so gentle, and so curious. I don't know how one would be able to "handle her"," he said softly.

“No, we can’t have all the puppies but you know they don’t understand that with all the animals we do have. They just think all animals are ours.” Given they had so many animals at home in Baltimore. “Yeah, I mean you always say no more animals and you’re here can’t stop thinking about the little almost fox like puppy with green eyes.” she grinned. “Getting soft?” it was just teasing, “I did adore her too.” she said honestly. “Some people are just bad pet owners.”

"We gotta teach them that we can't take all of them home." Of course, she had a point. They had so many animals at this point. "She was so cute though. Did you see her cuddling with Peyton? In all the years I had him and Baz, they only ever curled up together like twice, and I think that was just Baz laying with him because he was in his spot," Alex said with another shrug of his shoulders before he shifted to lay down more, his head resting on Sophie's leg like it was his pillow. "Think we should go back there, spend some more time with her?" he asked, now genuinely curious if she felt that urge to go back just as much as he did.

“Well, they’re young they’re not going to understand that as easy as you and I.” she said, which she knew they had to work on or they’d have their kids bringing home animals they’d find out in the wild. “I did I was kind of surprised, I get why he doesn’t let Porky cuddle him he’s kind of spunky like Baz was, and he sometimes lets Percy cuddle next to him but not very often.” she said. His head rested on her legs. “You do? Want to go back and spend time with her?” she asked. “I did think she was really cute and those green eyes.”

"I don't know if he just doesn't like to have friends or doesn't like to cuddle as much but he really didn't mind her curling up with him," he said and glanced up at her. "I mean, yeah. I'd like to know what you think, but I think I'd like to go back, get to know her a bit more. Maybe with the dogs but without the kids..."

“He likes friends he plays with them when they’re outside I think when he wants to relax though he prefers his space which I can’t blame him. Why do you think we have the most massive built bed back in Baltimore.” she laughed. “I would like that… take the dogs back, and you know… she seemed so comfortable with our family already… maybe there’s a reason Noah knew we were supposed to go in there.”

"Oh, you prefer your space in bed?" he asked with a smirk and then laughed softly. "Then I think we should give them a call in the morning, see how we can do this best," he murmured. Picking up a dog from the shelter, especially one that was just dropped off there meant they'd have to take some time to get to know her, make sure it was a good fit too so they wouldn't end up giving her back again.

“I mean why did we get the absolutely massive bed back in Baltimore if we didn’t like the idea of some space sometimes.” she teased giving a roll of her eyes. “Alright then that’s what we’ll do, we’ll call in the morning, we can have my parents or brothers watch the kids… or my friends in town would love some playtime with the little ones.” she said, “and then we can go in and see how to do this, think the biggest one would be probably Porky since he’s a bit over hyper and Sansa since she’s young.” she was still a puppy too. “Since Percy gets along with everyone and it seemed like Peyton already bonded.”

"I mean I figured we just needed enough space for us, the kids and the dogs but I see you just wanted your space from me," he chuckled and shook his head a little bit. "Yeah, we'll do that," Alex said with a smile. "Peyton seemed so great with her, didn't he? Like they were just long-lost friends or something."

[Sophie | Alex]

Sophie had been out, the last few days had been shopping and finally gearing up for Christmas. Sophie's favorite time of the year. While they hadn't started decorating a lot of the stores and places she was going had, and one of the stores she had popped into just to grab something quick she noticed a bunch of trees at the mall right outside of the store. wandering over they explained what they were and why they were there and immediately she felt pulled towards it. Helping kids who didn't have a lot felt like the right thing to do. One thing she knew their three kids were blessed and would never go without, they would be happy, healthy, and have anything provided for them that they could possibly need. So heading home she got an idea and called Annie to see if she could watch the kids that night so Alex and her could have a 'date night' though it was going to be one different than he was used to. Once home she kicked off her shoes and took off her jacket as Noah came running towards her and clamped onto her legs screaming mama. "Hi my big boy." she cooed laughing as she released him from her legs and Sansa came bounding after him. "Are you teasing the puppy?" she asked seeing his little devilish grin. "Alex?" she called out.

While Sophie was out shopping, for Christmas presents, for decorations, Alex wasn't really sure, he stayed home with the kids. His initial thought was putting them all down for their nap and have a while to rest, clean up, catch up on emails and stuff, but they didn't sleep nearly as long as he'd hoped they would and so just an hour or two after all three little once were finally down, Willa woke up again, then Delphi and then Noah - all with so much energy that Alex just let them run around, play with the dogs and have a good time. He was on the couch with Peyton laying by his feet that he had stretched out and Willa and Noah playing catch while Delphi was playing with her toys. When the door announced Sophie returning, Noah was off to meet her, followed by Sansa and Alex chuckled softly. "Living room," he called in reply to Sophie and shifted to be able to turn his head and see Sophie once she came into the room. "How was shopping?"

After hearing his voice, she headed into the living room with Noah in her arms before putting him down so he could run off and continue playing and she plopped down on the couch next to him and curled up a bit laying her head on his shoulder. "Was good, didn't get much since you know we'll be traveling overseas for Christmas." she said before glancing up at him. "By the way Annie is going to be here in a couple of hours, we're going to have a date night." she grinned. "It's last minute but no arguing."

Alex had opted to do a few things on his phone while watching the kids but when Sophie came to curl up next to him, he put it down on the couch beside him and turned his head to look at her. "Did I tell you my parents were thinking of being in London for Christmas this year too?" He said with a smile. "You didn't get much though? I doubt that," it was a little tease but then his eyebrows raised when she let him know they were going out that night. "A date night? Am I gonna have to dress up because we're going out to dinner?"

"Really? That would be great. My parents have a ton of space in their place and they'd love to host them I'm sure." she said and she'd love to have them in London. "I didn't really." she said since they couldn't cart a ton to England if anything she'd order and have it delivered. "Nope no need to dress up. I mean we're going to get dinner but it'll be quick we're going to be doing an activity for date night mostly"

"Yeah, my mom told me they were considering it, since they kind of want to be around the kids on Christmas, and they haven't been to the UK in a while. Do you want to ask your parents or should we just tell my mom to get in touch with yours about it?" He questioned, smiling at the way she was curled up with him and Peyton only glanced up when they shifted, a gentle reminder he was there and liked to have his space while still close enough to somewhat cuddling against them. "We're doing an activity? What /kind/ of activity are we doing for a date night?" He asked with a small smirk on his lips but then nodded quickly. "Alright though, no fancy dressing up. Just comfortable clothes then?"

"Willa will be so excited." Not that the others wouldn't but she would understand the most with Christmas. Having all of them together and she loves that they were all going to be sharing the holidays together. "I'll let my mom know and then they can all contact each other to make their plans." she said knowing that would be best to see what works for them. "Not that kind of activity." she said when she saw him smirk. "We're going to actually be going out and doing something." she said "So yes regular comfortable clothing and comfortable shoes to walk around in."

"But I love that kind of activity," he teased. "Are you gonna tell me what we're gonna be doing? Are you just planning on taking a walk?" Alex was curious that was for sure, and he also had no idea at all what Sophie could've been planning. "When is Annie gonna be here? We may have to make sure the kids are more tired when she does. They've got so much energy right now."

"Oh I know it." she chuckled softly, "But that isn't what's happening. I have far better ideas." Well okay maybe not better in that aspect but you get what I mean." she said. "Annie is going to be here in about an hour and a half now." glancing at the clock. "And if not she will be able to handle them she's good at keeping them all in a row." she grinned. "She's such a good nanny." which really she was. "I can't wait for our date tonight." it was obvious she was so excited to go out.

"So you're not gonna tell me what we're gonna do," Alex concluded with a chuckle. He shifted a little bit, reaching up to cup her cheek and leaned in to steal a kiss from her lips. That apparently caught Willa's attention and she cane running while whining and starred climbing up to get between them. "What are you doing princess?"

"Nope, not yet." she said, "In case you don't find it fun." Though she did hope he would find it more about the importance of what they were doing. His lips pecked hers which grabbed Willa's attention to climb between them. "Such a little jealous girl." she rolled her eyes chuckling.

"You're not telling me and just risk me being annoyed while we are wherever you're taking me instead of just telling me?" he asked amusedly, but he doubted he'd find it stupid, it was gonna be a date night after all right? Before they knew it, Willa was squeezing between them, her little arms wrapping around Alex's neck and he chuckled softly. "Are you jealous?" he teased a little but Willa's response was a simple "my daddy."

“Oh you’re gonna be annoyed because I’m planning a cute secret date night?” She asked glancing up at him with a raised brow. When Willa got between them, she rolled her eyes. The little girl was a jealous little thing. “Your daddy, my man.” She told the little girl. “My daddy!” She now yelled and she scoffed towards her.

"I'm not saying I will be, but it's a possibility," Alex chuckled. He watched Willa climb up and squeeze between them and couldn't help the amused grin on his lips as she almost yelled at Sophie that he was her daddy and not Sophie's, which was very obviously so but the jealousy was kind of adorable in a way. "So you're done running and want cuddles now?" he asked their daughter after a moment and shifted her a little so he could lift her enough to see her face. "Auntie is gonna come hang in a bit," he told her with a smile.

She cuddled into Alex and she knew they’d eventually have to break that with her getting bigger. So she let them cuddle and she curled up to the side. “You’re gonna play and have some fun and spend the night with Annie so mommy and daddy can have a date night together.” She said which caused Willa to cling onto Alex and glare at her. “Oh put the eyes away missy.”

Of course Willa wasn't impressed when he lifted her up, so he let her cling to him more and Alex chuckled softly. "I love you too, princess, but you're gonna have a great time with Auntie Annie and Noah and Delphi, yeah? And mommy and me will be back so when you wake up we can cuddle some more," he told her. He knew it was gonna be a struggle to leave her, or maybe she'd get distracted by playing again. "Did you want to leave right when Annie gets here?" he asked, turning his head to look at Sophie.

“You’re gonna have so much fun. Auntie Annie is gonna do a ginger bread house with you and Noah.” Since Delphi was too little she was just gonna get to play and smear frosting around on cookies. “Yeah leaving right when she gets here will be good we’re gonna be gone for a bit and it’s gonna be busy and take a lot of work. We should also take the bigger vehicle not the car for this trip.”

Willa still wasn't letting go of Alex, but she looked interested without trying to be. When Sophie said they should leave as soon as Annie got there and take the bigger vehicle, he arched a brow again. "Excuse me, what are we getting up to?" he asked again, frowning slightly. Since Annie was gonna get there soon, Alex eventually got up with Willa in his arms and looked at the little girl. "Daddy's gonna have to get ready, do you want to go back to playing?"

“It’s a surprise let it be a surprise. We’re gonna eat first to get up our energy too.” She nodded. Sophie was at least already dress and ready to go in a simple outfit so she got down on the floor to play with Noah and Delphine the little girl crawling into her lap and clapping as Noah did something silly. “Annie should be here in about fifteen minutes so you really better get going babe.”

"Okay you can't tell me that doesn't sound like we're gonna get into that kind of fun activity you told me we're not gonna be doing," he said, obviously not wanting to blurt it out in front of the kids. Willa shook her head and was clinging to him and he kissed her head. "Hey, do you know where Sansa is? She must be so sad I'm getting all your cuddles and she doesn’t," he said and that seemed to catch Willa's attention. "Sansa?" she repeated in a questioning tone. It was easy to put her down then and while she was off to find the puppy, Alex slipped out of the room to head upstairs and get ready.

“Yeah well it’s not that kind of activity.” She said laughing. “Unless you make me very happy and then maybe… you can have that for dessert.” She said. Once Alex brought up Sansa that was it and she was down and rushing to find the puppy and cuddling her and petting her saying she was sorry for not cuddling her. It was cute and melted her heart to hear her say Sansa her character’s name. Something she didn’t even fully understand as Alex went upstairs to get ready.

Alex got changed once he was upstairs, a pair of slightly ripped jeans, shirt and hoodie, then a beanie to top it off. Just when he was done getting ready he heard the door announcing Annie and hurried downstairs to get the door and let her in. "Hi, thanks for coming by so Soph and I can go to..." it sounded like a question as he trailed off but Annie wasn't gonna tell him either so apparently he had to wait.

Once he was downstairs Annie was arriving and she got up and fixed her shirt and moved to grab her long jacket. “To go to date night.” She said giggling softly. Knowing he wanted to know so damn badly but she just wanted to surprise him with the idea in case he thought it was silly. “We’re probably gonna be out late so make yourself comfortable we’ll be quiet when we come in and we owe you breakfast in the morning.” Sophie said hugging the woman.

".. We'll be out late doing what?" Alex questioned though he wasn't exactly expecting a reply to that now. He grabbed a jacket to put on and slipped into a pair of shoes. "Thanks Annie." They were outside soon after saying goodbye to the kids and Alex glanced at Sophie as they got into the car. "Dinner first? Did you pick out where we're gonna go?" he asked so he'd know where to drive to.

“Will you just be patient Alex.” She said when he asked again shaking her head. “Dinner first we’re just gonna go somewhere low key. Do you want Thai or Italian I could go for either of them honestly.” She said climbing into the bigger vehicle.

"I'm not necessarily a patient person," he reminded her with a shrug. "And you're being cryptic so I just wanna know." Even though he knew he'd find out sooner or later. They got into the car and he pulled out of their driveway and off the property. "Let's go with Thai, feel like we haven't had that in a while," he said and they were off. Dinner was low key but giving them time to chat and of course Alex teased Sophie with more questions about what they were gonna be doing at some point, but he dropped it every time because she wasn't going to tell him after all. After they were done and had paid, Alex took her hand and lead her back outside to their vehicle. "Maybe one of these days we should do a date night and share one of those chocolates that are all over TikTok," he mused with a grin before opening the door for her so she could get in.

“Thai food it is.” Choosing to just gloss over what he as saying about her being cryptic and wanting to know what they were doing. They were able to enjoy and while a few people looked over at them they were able to just enjoy their dinner and time talking with each other even if Alex was teasing her here and there with their night. “Chocolates that are all over TikTok?” She furrowed her brows. “What Are you talking about?” Genuinely confused. She climbed in before putting in the address for the place they had to go and buckling her seat belt. “Tell me about these chocolates.”

They were lucky to be just left to themselves and it was good to be out for once and just the two of them. Alex chuckled softly as Sophie got into the car. "Maybe they're just all over my TikTok then," he said furrowing his brows slightly and shrugging his shoulders. He got around the car and into the driver’s seat while Sophie got in the right address so he'd know where to go. "Well, they're naughty chocolates," he said with a small smirk. "Have you never heard of them? Hold on," he murmured as he pulled out his phone and opened TikTok to find a video for her of the "Tabs" chocolate.

“What are you watching on TikTok if they’re all over yours.” She grinned at him as he explained them before pulling out his phone and showing her them. She reached over and looked at them and grinned. Clicking the button, she added them to the shopping cart on TikTok and placed the order. “There one of your desires will come true well try them but not before going on a public date.” She teased handing him his phone back. “But we could get creative with it.” She grinned before tapping the screen. “This is where we have to go.”

He laughed softly when she said they weren't gonna try them before going on a public date. "No public date when trying these out. Maybe they don't even work, but it could be fun to try," he said with a grin and glanced at the screen. He drove off, taking them where she led them until he was parking the vehicle on a store's parking lot. "You're taking me shopping? /This/ is the fun date night you wanted to do?" he questioned, confusion evident.

“They could work and that would be fun. Not that we need more amp up to our sex life we already have enough of that.” She said with a laugh. When they got to a store’s parking lot she grinned at him. “Will you be a little more creative.” She said as she slid out of the vehicle and around. “This kind of involves here.” She said, “we’ll be going a few places tonight.” Which was why they were gonna be busy. Walking in she found the big Christmas tree filled with pieces of paper before going. “Ta da” she held her hand out. “We’re gonna do Angel trees!” She smiled proudly. “We’re gonna adopt kids that aren’t able to have Christmas and give them their Christmas wishes.”

"We don't /need/ it, but it sounds fun so I wanna try." When he parked the car, Alex glanced over at Sophie and shook his head. "Be more creative? You're not telling me anything here," he said with a shrug. They got out of the car and Alex followed as she led him to where a big Christmas tree was set up and filled with pieces of paper. "Angel trees?" he questioned and it took him a moment to understand what that meant, but then his eyes widened a bit and excitement started to brush away the confusion. "So we're getting kids their Christmas gifts?"

"We definitely don't need it, but it'll be fun." she agreed because regardless they were always looking to have fun. "We're getting kids who otherwise wouldn't have Christmas presents their Christmas gifts. We get to be Santa!" she said bouncing slightly. "isn't this a great date night idea?" she beamed. "I figured our kids are so lucky and will have everything they ever need in their lives, they'll never have to worry but there are kids out there that are asking for things like.. a jacket for Christmas that I couldn't think of a better way to give back. I thought we could take a bunch of these and shop till our bodies were exhausted."

"That's," Alex started and he was surprised but also loved the idea. They were so lucky in so many ways and it would be nice to make someone else's Christmas. "Yes. Yes! Let's do this." He smiled as Sophie bounced a little, he could tell just how excited she was and that made him love the idea even more.

She really hoped he loved the idea, she knew it was a non-traditional date night, it wasn't some romantic going out dancing, or dressing up sexy, but this felt right during this time of year. giving back when they were so lucky to be where they were in the world when so many obviously were not. She reached forward and hugged him tightly before turning back to the tree. "Okay so I was thinking you pick five and I'll pick five. That sounds like a good number right? Ten little angels?" she said and it wasn't like it would hurt them financially. "Try to pick out an assortment of ages, sometimes teens don't get picked." she said starting to sift through the different tags.

When Sophie had mentioned a date night and that they were going to be busy, Alex really hadn't expected them to do anything like this, but he loved it. He knew they had so many means to make a wonderful Christmas time for their kids but if they didn't, they'd just want their little ones to be happy still. And to get to do that for someone who wasn't as lucky as they were, it was just a nice thought. He chuckled softly and hugged Sophie back before all her attention was on the tree again and he agreed. Ten sounded reasonable enough, each of them was gonna pick five. He started looking at the cards and plucked one off, then another one until he had the five cards collected and was already mentally wandering through the store to get each of them what they wanted. "Alright, let's grab a card and show me what you got," he said with a grin.

They spent their evening picking out things for their "kids" and filling up multiple carts, and picking out everything that they could possibly need and want. It was exactly how she wanted to spend the night giving back to those in need. As they finished up, she grabbed one of the carts and they found a private area. "Alright my first one is a girl thirteen years old she wanted earbuds, crafts, a winter jacket, fluffy socks, and a squish mellow." The proceeded to show the earbuds that were not the super high-end ones because she was only thirteen, a coat, multiple crafts, clothes in her size, a coat, three pairs of shoes, and a Walmart brand tablet "I figured these were only $59 bucks each and what teen wouldn't love a little tablet?" she beamed. "Alright show me one of yours."

"What even is a squish mellow?" Alex asked with a soft chuckle. Of course, Sophie had gone all out, but he had too. "Okay, this one's for a little boy, five years old. He doesn't have that many wishes written down, but he wants board games, Legos, shirts and a dinosaur," he started and pulled out to show Sophie what he got. "Sadly, I couldn't find a real dinosaur, so I went with the theme." He showed her the shirts he'd gotten, some with a dinosaur, some without, a big dinosaur stuffed animal, a dinosaur Lego set and a handful of board games where one even was with a dinosaur on the cover.

“It’s a squishy stuffed animal that’s round like a marshmallow.” She said pointing to the three in the cart.” She watched as Alex pulled out all the things he has gotten for his little boy and she was beaming at how happy he seemed. “I mean I don’t think he’ll be too mad you couldn’t find a real dinosaur those are some great toys.” She said. “Plus all the games he can play with his parents or parent and Legos.” She knew how much the kids love the big building blocks when they were a bit older they’d love the Legos too probably. “Okay we’ll show one more each and then we better check all this out it’s gonna take us awhile to bag each thing for each kid.“ figuring that would be fair they would see everything as they checked out and who went to what. “I went a little overboard on this one these are 16 year old twin girls and all it said on this was underwear, socks, and stuff to keep warm.” Which broke her heart. “So I got them each a mini wardrobe.” Gesturing over the massive cart full of clothes. Each got a nicer tablet but still not like iPad level, earbuds, instamax camera, those cool TikTok water bottles, body wash, perfume, and a shit ton of makeup. Like probably one of everything in that aisle and gift card for each so they can pick out their own foundation.” The fact that they asked for only warm things. “Oh! And These giant fuzzy blankets each. I went with these cool prints I didn’t want to assume their favorite colors.” She said this cart was chock full but it was for two teenagers.

Sophie was beaming when she told him about all the things she'd gotten for the twin girls and Alex shook his head a little in amusement. "When Willa and Delphi are old enough, I'm so not gonna let you go shopping with our girls," he teased. "Alright, last one? This one's for a girl," he said as he pulled a cart closer, "she wants the newest Taylor Swift album and some other things like clothes, which I did get in her size but you're gonna have to look through if these are alright," he pulled out the stack of clothes he had picked out for Sophie to look through. "And for the cd, I wasn't even sure if she meant Midnights or the rerecords, so I just got all of them. I went for Vinyls because they're so much better to listen to." He had also gotten a record player since he wasn't even sure she had one, and a matching set of headphones to go with.

“I mean Willa and Delphi will end up with this stuff naturally as they get older in time like as they need it but these girls might not be able to ever afford this stuff and if we can give it to them for Christmas.” She gave a small smile not wanting to get emotional. They were lucky, so lucky and these kids weren’t as and for her being able to do that once a year. “I mean they just wanted things to keep them warm how… heartbreaking is that?” She knew she’d get emotional, so she shook her head and let Alex show her all the stuff and she checked the clothes just to be sure and everything he picked out was really cute. “You bought Taylor swift!” She cooed hugging him. “And a record player.” And while those could be reasonable they weren’t cheap either knowing Alex he wasn’t buying the cheapest so she knew he had a soft spot too. “You know I was thinking we should make this a yearly thing before we go back to the UK every year. Do 10 kids for Christmas and the as the kids get older add one on for each of them to do.” She said to make it a family tradition. Testing out what he thought.

"I know baby, they'll love all of this," he said with a smile. He could tell Sophie was getting emotional over this, but they weren't trying to have her cry in the store after all, so he showed her all that he'd gotten, including the Vinyls and the record player and a grin spread on his lips when she hugged him. "She was asking for Taylor Swift and I just wanted to make sure I got the right one," Alex murmured. They stored everything back in the cart and started heading for the register to pay for everything and bag it all up. "We can do that," he said with a nod and then smiled a little more when she mentioned including the kids. "I think they're gonna love that. Of course, they're gonna end up wanting so many things too because all the wishes are just gonna give them ideas, but they'll love it either way. We can teach them about giving back by it," he agreed with a nod. It took them a while to get everything checked out and into bags to have each kid get the right things, but they eventually made it work. By the time they were out of the store and back in the car, Alex felt happy and content, but also a little exhausted. "Do you have more things planned for our date night? Because this was a hell of a lot of fun and it's late," he said, glancing over at Sophie with a grin. "Will you let me take you out for a late-night coffee?"

"I'm sure you got her the right one and more." she said giving a short laugh. She loved that he had been into it as much as she had been because that meant he enjoyed it as much as she had and he wasn't just being dragged around. "They'll get ideas but I want to teach them Christmas isn't just about getting gifts it's about giving back for how lucky and privileged they are to have what they have." As much as she loved spoiling their kids, and she did, she wanted them to know that this didn't just come freely and that in time they would have to work for their own things and work hard in life too just like Alex had and Sophie had to make their own names. It took them awhile to check out then put everything in different bags for each child and zip tie it shut before bringing it to the desk, where a few people then asked for photos which Sophie was happy to do and a few asked for Alex too given he had come from that area it wasn't surprising at all for him to have quite a few fans so after that they made their way out to the car. "A late-night coffee sounds like a good start, but no other plans right now." she said glancing over at him. "I'm sure the kids are already in bed."

They were on the same page about how to raise their kids almost all the time and especially about what values they wanted to teach them, including being aware of how lucky they were in aspects of life and how great it felt to be giving back some of that. So he was perfectly happy to make this a yearly thing, a family tradition even. Before leaving the store, they took a little time to take pictures with people around who noticed them and eventually they headed for the car and got inside. Alex smiled when Sophie agreed to get some coffee, so once they were both buckled up, he pulled out of the parking lot and drove to the nearest café he knew they'd get good coffee, or tea if Sophie fancied that. "Let's get inside, yes?" He smiled over at Sophie and then got out, rounding the car to open the door for her and take her hand so he could lead her inside the place. They were seating in a corner, secluded enough to be able to just enjoy without being bothered the whole time, still able to glance outside. "You know I want the kids to experience winter on the farm some time, right?" He said as they were settled with their coffees and just chatting about their day. He explicitly said winter and not Christmas though, so then he added, "but if we want to make Christmas a UK thing, I'll be happy to spend the holidays there with you and I'm sure the kids will love seeing London during Christmas time."

She knew that Alex and her were on the same page when it came how to raise their kids. It had been something they had never really had disagreements about, other than when their little girls grew up and started dating, then it was a bit different but that they had years and years to worry about. Then as the kids grew up making it a yearly tradition when they could appreciate it, but for now something between them for a date night sounded just perfect in her mind. Once they were to the coffee shop, he took her hand ushering her in and finding a private spot for the both of them. "I do, and I want them too, that first Christmas with Willa where we had all the trees, was so special." she said remembering it so fondly and she wanted that for all their kids too. "Christmas in the UK a thing?" she questioned. "Alex I don't want you to feel like you have to give Christmas up here just for me." yes she loved Christmas in England, there was no secret that she thought they did it a bit better with all the lights, the Christmas cheer, and all of that. but she also didn't want him to feel like he was sacrificing anything either.

A soft laugh escaped Alex's lips at the memory. "As long as you don't make me cut our tree again," he teased. His hands wrapped around his cup of coffee and he brought it up to take a sip before replying. "I know I don't have to do anything," he told her and it was true, he knew they had yet to figure things about their future out but it was never one of them just doing things because the other wanted them without being okay with it. "I wouldn't genuinely saying this if I wasn't okay with making Christmas in England a returning thing." He knew Sophie loved being home and it wasn't that the farm wasn't home for her, they'd spent three years making it their home now and he didn't think she felt out of place, but being home where she grew up and spent the majority of her childhood growing up was just different and he understood that. "I'm saying we have to figure out a timeline every year, with touring and all that I still want the kids to be spending some winter time on the farm, but Christmas in the UK can be our family thing."

“You were the one who wanted to cut the trees down and show you could do it. That’s all on you.” Sophie laughed. She knew they were still figuring out what their time spent between Baltimore, and London would be, but she appreciated that he always took it into consideration. “Yeah, I think we can make that happen. I get with tours that sometimes it might not, and we can always figure things out especially as they get older. They’re going to need something more stable, but I would really like it if we made Christmas in the UK a family thing, especially if your parents can make it.” The last thing she wanted was to exclude his parents just because her parents were in the UK. His parents were just as important to her as her own parents. She had to love them as much as her own parents. Not to mention the kids were used to having them around. “so when were you thinking of heading to the UK then for Christmas because we have to figure that all out.?”

"I can talk to them, see if they can make it this year, or at least get there a few days after Christmas," Alex said with a nod. He took another sip of his coffee and glanced around and outside briefly before focusing back on Sophie. "We can go as soon as we got things figured out. I mean, we have to pack and I'll have to talk to our farm helpers to make sure they can come in daily again, but as soon as that's settled, we can head across the pond." Whenever they were out of town, on tour or just anywhere else, they had people come in to tend to their little farm daily, but while they were home, they only came by a couple days to help out. "I know it wouldn't be all great with like, emission and all that, but you think it'd be easier to fly out privately? We're taking the dogs, right? And with our three munchkins, it's gonna be exhausting.."

"I would love it if they could make it and I know my parents would love it." Their parents really had bonded at Christmas time. Glancing outside she turned her attention back to Alex. "We can do that, it'll take a few days, to pack and get everything settled like you said and no flying private might not be best emission wise but sometimes it's needed look at Taylor she has to fly private and we have three kids, dogs, a new puppy." she said with a shrug. "It'd be easier to have the help of just our own private crew if we went privately and it's something we can afford." she said. "So I think we should do it that way if we can.

"Yeah, it'll take a few days, but we can leave as soon as we can," he said with a smile. He knew Sophie missed the UK, and now that Thanksgiving was over, there really wasn't a point in dragging out the time before leaving to go there for the holidays. Alex reached out to place his hand on Sophie's thigh and give it a gentle squeeze. "I'll call to get the animals taken care of tomorrow morning."

"Okay we can start getting things ready but let's not tell the kids so we can surprise them." she said given that Willa would understand more than Delphine and Noah would have some idea. "I can't wait for this year she's going to understand Father Christmas so much and Noah kind of gets it." she said with a chuckle. Glancing up she pointed. "Look it's starting to snow."

"Works for me," he agreed with a smile and once again brought his cup up to sip on his coffee. He was just about done with it when Sophie mentioned snow and he turned his head to look outside, a grin spreading on his lips. "Maybe they'll actually all learn snow on the farm before we leave," Alex chuckled softly before finishing his coffee and looking at Sophie. "Finish up, we should take a walk in the snow," he suggested.

"I'm hoping they'll get to see snow on the farm and snow in London." she admitted because she wanted it to be special for the babies as much as possible, even if they really weren't 'babies' anymore, except for Delphine. She finished up her drink before they slipped out and headed out, it was all quiet outside and there was a park nearby that she took his hand and they ended up heading over to stroll around in as the snow came fluttering down around them.

They were out just a little bit later, the snow was falling softly and Alex smiled as they laced their fingers together and headed for the small park that was close by. He knew he would have to figure out what to do for his birthday if they were going to be in London, but he really wasn't too worried about that. He didn't feel like making it a big party this year anyway. As they walked, Alex lifted his arm and hers in the process, wrapping his own arm around her shoulders while still holding onto her hand so they walked a little more closely and he smiled as they walked slowly. "This has been a really good day."

She loved getting to spend time with Alex and having simple date nights. Sometimes those nights of grand gestures were great but these nights were always special. His arm wrapped around her and she snuggled into him. They walked for awhile, "It has been an amazing day, I loved our date night." she said before they continued on for awhile. "You know we have the very big truck tonight." she murmured a twinkle in her eyes.

"The big truck?" Alex asked with a soft chuckle and a grin forming on his lips as he glanced at her and saw the twinkle in her eyes. "What's your idea?" They had been walking for a while, so they should be heading back to the parking lot soon after all. They didn't have to be back home soon, Annie was taking care of the kids and she'd be perfectly fine with them for a while.

"Well you know the big SUV." she murmured given it was enclosed but she always called it a truck even if it wasn't one. They started heading back towards the parking lot and she looked up at him. "I think we could figure out a few ideas of things we could do, there's a few places that are more private to park the SUV and maybe just... relax." she murmured with a casual shrug.

He got a general idea what Sophie was suggested, but it was fun to not actually say it out. "And where exactly do you want to park it?" Alex asked as they walked back to the parking lot and reached the SUV. He got out the keys and unlocked the vehicle so they could get in. He got into the driver's seat once Sophie was buckled up and he glanced over at her with a smirk before focusing on the road to pull out of the lot and back onto the street. He really didn't need her to lead the way to drive out of town and find somewhere to stop the car and park it there. "Think here works?" He asked as he turned his head towards Sophie and smiled widely.

"there's a few spots we can park." Giving him a few places that he was sure he already knew given he was native to the area unlike her. Once they were back on the road it didn't take long to get to one of these more secluded places and for him to park the car. "I think here is nice." she nodded as he turned towards her and smiled. "We can sit here, watch the snow fall, get all snuggly." she grinned almost teasing him now since she knew that was not at all what she had meant earlier.

Once the car was parked, Alex cut the engine and shifted to face Sophie more. He unbuckled his seatbelt, giving him more room to turn and he almost laughed when Sophie said they could get all snuggly and watch the show. Of course, he knew that wasn't exactly what she had been suggesting earlier, he could remember a fairly recent conversation they had exactly about things like this too. "Fine," he said, but he reached out to cup her face and lean in to press a kiss on her lips. "But I'm gonna get more comfortable," he said as he pulled away and with a grin on his face he opened his door and slipped out of the car, only to get back in a moment later but in the back this time.

When he slipped to the back of the SUV she knew he was playing the game and she slid out and headed to the back and climbed in, "If you're going to get all comfortable you could at least invite me." she murmured. "Kind of rude to not invite your future wife to get all comfortable with each other." she huffed as if she was mad as she pulled out a blanket she kept in the back and actually acted like she was going to get all snuggled up and just watch the snow fall against the windows. If he was going to play, why wouldn't she play too?

"I had to invite you? Looks like you were perfectly capable of coming back here yourself," Alex teased as she climbed into the back with him and pulled out a blanket. He shifted, leaning forward to lock the car, before he settled back against the backseat of the car. Turning his head to Sophie, he smirked and then leaned over to reach for her and pull her more towards him, almost enough to make her climb in his lap.

"Well it would have been nice for my fiancé to say babe come cuddle with me in the back." she said, "All romance is dead isn't it." she huffed as if she actually meant it. When he shifted, he pulled her forward enough to pull her onto him almost into his lap. "And what is this?" she hummed curious her brow raised at him. "I thought you were back here to get comfy?

"Had you stayed in the front, maybe I would have done just that," he murmured before tugging her onto him. "Who says I'm not comfy with you on top of me?" Alex questioned with a smirk and his arm wrapped around her. "Plus, the car is off, it's gonna get cold eventually and we gotta find a way to be warm."

“I feel like there’s ulterior motives here.” She said when he pulled her on top of him and she settled more against him, but he said it was more about finding a way to keep warm. He knew this was one of her fantasies wanting to be in the car together and not in the front seat. “Guess if it’s gonna get cold we should bundle up together and wrap ourselves in a blanket and get warm.” She said. “Don’t want to freeze or anything.”

"Ulterior motives?" He asked with another soft chuckle as he felt her settling more against him. His eyebrows arched a little as his hands dropped to her legs and then slid up her thighs, all the way to her waist where he let them linger momentarily. "Do we have blankets in here?" it was a genuine question and he glanced back briefly to see if there were any stored in the back of the car. "And here I thought we're gonna just use body heat by cuddling together like penguins do to stay warm," he added with a cheeky grin, because he was aware of the kind of body heat Sophie had been hinting at before without really even saying it.

"Yes, that's what I said." she nodded, because he was looking at her as he dropped his hands to her thighs before dragging them up slowly. "We have a blanket it's always in here when it gets colder just in case." you never know what could happen. when he said they were going to cuddle against each other like penguins do for body heat she chuckled, "that would require being naked." she murmured.

"And what would those motives be?" Alex questioned, furrowing his brows a little before he glanced back and spotted the blanket just when Sophie pointed it out to him. He had dragged his hands up her thighs slowly and now they rested against her waist, just where the hem of her shirt was and a smirk curled onto his lips at her comment. Wasn't that the whole point? Being naked, or somewhat naked. At least that's where his mind kept trailing to. "Nothing wrong with that," he hummed. In case they wanted the blanket, he knew they'd have to shift a lot, maybe if he pushed himself up and stretched his arm back, he could reach it, or maybe Sophie could push up and bend over his shoulder to reach back and grab it. As his thoughts trailed back to how close they were with Sophie sitting in his lap, his hands mindlessly slid up under the hem of her shirt, to the bare skin beneath.

“I think you know your own motives.” She said with a soft click of her tongue. “I mean if you want to get naked we can do that.” Thankfully the vehicle had fully tinted windows an no one could see in. She wanted that rush of being taken in the back of a car but she wanted that more because Alex was the one pulled her in and taking her. His hands slipped under her shirt and she felt his hand against her bare skin and she hummed out almost breathlessly of his slightly cool fingers against her warm skin her eyes fluttering closed as her mouth parted ever so slightly.

His hands dragged over her skin for a moment, sure she could feel how cool they were against the warm skin and eventually, he moved them around to her back and pulled her in, tugging her down against his hips and letting out a soft groan at the friction that movement caused. Instead of replying to her, he leaned forward, lips finding her neck and nibbling softly on the skin. He let his hands explore, slide up her back over bare skin and his arms bunched up the shirt slightly. His hips shifted upwards a little bit, pressing up against her, hopeful she'd start shifting against him as well and he'd feel her hips grinding into his.

She could feel his movements his hips shifting under her to press up and make it so their hips ground against hers and she moved hers the tiniest bit. She liked to tease a little bit even though she knew that this was something she had fantasized about happening. His mouth against her skin caused her to mewl happily her blonde hair falling back when her head tipped back.

Of course he noticed just how little Sophie shifted against him and he groaned softly against her neck. He started trailing kisses up along her skin, his hands exploring against her skin. He had to lean forward a bit to reach all the spots he wanted to reach with how Sophie's head was tipped back now, but he found a spot just under her ear with ease. "Are you letting me do all the work?" He smirked slightly, knowing she was teasing before his kisses trailed along her jaw and cheek until he finally found her lips and their mouths connected in a hungry kiss.

She loved hearing him groan in frustration and it made her giggle slightly. Which she was sure that it would annoy him because he wasn't getting the desired affect. "I am letting you do all the work." she quipped, "Where's the fun if I don't make you work for it a little bit." she husked as his mouth crushed against hers in a hungry kiss and she groaned into his mouth.

"That's not fair," he muttered against her skin before his lips found hers and he was all too busy kissing her to talk. His fingers curled into her skin lightly, wanting to feel more of her, eager to feel more of her own movements before he slid his hands up her back, dragging the shirt up a bit. Of course it would have been a lot easier to take their jackets off before getting in the back, but he hadn't quite thought this through then. Playfully biting her lower lip as they kissed, he pulled his hands back from under her shirt and found the hem of her coat to brush it down over her shoulders and off of her. He struggled a little, but then managed to toss it into the back of the truck to have enough room where they were.

"Life's not fair baby." she hummed against his mouth a grin on her lips. Even if his kiss was not really willing her to talk all that much. Her shirt dragged up and she giggled again feeling the slight chill against her skin as he pushed up her jacket and shirt before he slipped out and started undoing her jacket and tossed it back of the truck. "Mm it's going to be a lot easier if we take some of these clothes off. Good thing these windows are tinted."

[Sophie | Alex]

Over the years Thanksgiving was something that the blonde had gotten used to celebrating. From her relationship with her ex to now her current partner, Alex, it was part of their normal holiday celebrations. While her heart would always be a Brit, and he knew it, she could enjoy the holiday. They were having a big gathering of family, friends, and Alex's crew as well as their significant others to the house which meant prep for Thanksgiving had started days ago for Sophie. Making sure she had enough food, and she decorated the house with a nice little nice fall festive look which she had to admit, all of it was exhausting while chasing three toddlers ranging in age from three down. Alex was of course helping but he was more in charge of the turkeys than anything. not that he wasn't going to help with other things. People were bringing various dishes to also help but Sophie was really putting a lot of effort into making sure a lot was done by her so that it was her first big family style celebrating together at the farmhouse with all the kids, family, and friends in tow. Which meant she crawled out of bed on Thanksgiving morning at 4am, incredibly exhausted but crept downstairs nonetheless putting on the coffee and started continuing prep for the food.

Before he met Sophie, Alex often fell into a bit of a hole after touring. The transition from being all 'go go go' to not doing much was hard on him but things were so different now. It never got boring and days on the farm kept Alex on his feet. They had three toddlers running around the house, a bunch of animals to keep them busy and a new puppy that still needed to learn a lot of things. And with Thanksgiving coming up, there was even more to do in preparation. They'd thrown Thanksgiving dinners before, but never this big. Their families were there, the boys, a few of the crew, Dan, Nano, Ricky and Phil didn't want to miss out either. It was gonna be a big dinner, something Alex loved but also knew took a lot of time to put together. On Thursday morning, he wanted to sleep in as long as he could but was stirred awake early by one of the dogs jumping up into bed with him and waking him with kisses. He thought they'd closed the door when going to bed, so for a moment he was confused until he realized Sophie wasn't in bed with him and a glance at the clock told him it was just around 4.30 am. Alex groaned softly, rubbed his face and then climbed out of bed to follow the soft sound of pots and pans and the smell of freshly made coffee. "It's too early to be awake," he murmured as he walked up behind Sophie and wrapped his arms around her waist.

Getting up so early wasn't unheard of for Sophie, not even because of the kids, because of her job there were often calls so early in the morning you had to be hair and makeup before the sun was even up. This was still a little different as she moved around pots and pans, things banging but not loudly enough to wake the babies. Willa wide awake this early in the morning with full energy was not something Sophie could handle with also cooking and taking things in and out of the oven and pans. She was trying to let Alex sleep she knew that he would help and do whatever he could if she asked but she also knew that chances were it'd be easier to let him get some more sleep. What she wasn't expecting was about thirty minutes later why she was stirring something into a batter that she felt arms wrap around her waist. "It might be, but we have so much to cook, some people will be here for breakfast, then a huge dinner." she said. "Means being up really early." she said as she reached a little to stir another pot.

Alex was aware that even though people were bringing food over, the majority of it Sophie wanted to be in charge off. It was like she was determined to be a wonderful host even though nobody expected her to spend these many hours on all of it. "Nobody's gonna expect breakfast at 5am," Alex mumbled quietly, too sleepy to be fully awake yet and he closed his eyes to rest them for a moment. "There's plenty of time to get food done. "Come back to bed," he hummed softly.

"No, but I'm making a french toast casserole thing I saw online. Americans love casseroles and that means making the batter, making sure the bread sits out and gets a little stale from the air. "Alex we are hosting how many people? Between friends, family, their partners... over twenty people." she murmured when he said come back to bed with her. "I can only go back to bed for maximum an hour."

"But you can do that after getting a little more sleep," Alex said softly, refusing to let go of her to make sure she knew he was serious. "I know it's a lot of people, but none of them is gonna be up for breakfast at 5 am," he reminded her and chuckled softly. "I'll take an hour. Better to sleep for another hour than getting no more sleep." He tugged her back the littlest bit. "Come?" He asked again, unsure what needed to be done right now or what could be put aside for after they slept a little bit more.

His arms didn't move from around her waist which meant that he was going to stand firm on this one, so she turned off the stove and covered the pots and pans to keep everything safe. So she let him lead her away and back upstairs where they crawled into bed and she laid down next to Alex so that he would relax if she would give him an hour longer in bed.

He was glad she didn't fight him but rather followed him back upstairs where they crawled back into bed and he rolled onto his side and then draped his arm over Sophie while he shifted close to her and let out a soft breath. "Isn't this so much better than standing in the kitchen?" he teased softly and let out a chuckle.

He moved and his arm draped over her body to pull her closer to him. “It’s better than the kitchen sure but that doesn’t get all the work done that needs to be done.” She said because it was kind of true. She shifted and laid her body down and took a breath. “One hour, okay?” She Said which would be a little bit before six am at this point. She just wanted to impress everyone that she could do this.

"There's enough time to get things done, babe. Don't worry so much," he murmured. Alex was tired and really 4.30am was way too early to be awake so once he was settled back in bed, he started dozing back off to sleep. "Mmh," he let out but not really knowing what she said since he was already half asleep again, comfortable and cozy, curled back up with her.

"I want it to be perfect, we have so many people coming I just want to impress them." She had cooked dinner before for groups of people but all of them together, including her parents who had flown in for the occasion, made her a little more stressed than usual. He was already dozing back off though, so she wasn't sure if he heard her words as she closed her eyes and tried to relax her own body to get a little more sleep.

"Mh, 's all gon' be good," Alex mumbled, half asleep and barely listening. He held onto Sophie, just comfortable having her in bed and partially hoping she was gonna relax and rest too. He hadn't set an alarm though, so he really wasn't sure whether it was an hour or less.. Or more of sleep that he got.

She did manage to fall back to sleep, she didn't even think to set an alarm so when she woke next her eyes peaked up to see sun coming up and glanced at the clock reading quarter to eight in the morning and she jumped up splaying Alex's arms from her body. "We over slept!"

Alex groaned when Sophie jumped out of bed and he rolled onto his back and rubbed his face before blinking his eyes open. "What do you mean?" he grunted slightly and yawned. He stretched a bit before sitting up and glancing over to the clock to see what she was talking about. "We have plenty of time to get things done," he said calmly and then started to scramble out of bed, fully aware Sophie wasn't going to calm fully until they were back in the kitchen getting things done. He padded across the room to the closet, changing into comfortable pants and a hoodie, then grabbing a beanie to cover the mess of hair with.

Sophie didn't even really take the time to listen her long limbs scrambling across the bed and out the door and back down the stairs where she quickly got everything on the stove turned back on and dug out some of the things she needed to get working on. She wasn't going to force Alex to get up and help until he was ready, but she got herself a cup of coffee and poured it taking large sips in between as she poured milk into a pot to start making the base for the french toast casserole for breakfast and ripping about the open bread that was left out on the counter.

When Alex was changed, he grabbed a hoodie for Sophie to put on and be more comfortable before heading out of the bedroom. He let the dogs out and got Sansa too, feeding them before he was ready to help preparing the food. "Here, put this on and take a breath," he said, handing Sophie the hoodie and pressing a kiss to her temple. After pouring himself a cup of coffee, he glanced around the kitchen. "What do you need me to do?"

When he came into the kitchen, she glanced up still stirring the pot in front of her as he headed towards her after taking care of their dogs. Stopping for a moment she pulled the hoodie over her nightgown and went back to stirring. "Well, you can peel both the potatoes and sweet potatoes, prep the green beans, or..." she glanced around. "Shred cheese for the baked macaroni and cheese."

Alex was glad she paused to put the hoodie on, though he could tell she was stressed. "Alright," he said with a nod and grabbed the potatoes so clean them up a bit and then pull out all that he needed to peel them. He knew it was almost late for the kids to still be sleeping, but it was a long day the night before and since there were several other adults in the house, he knew there were enough hands to keep them taken care of.

She was glad to be doing Thanksgiving, she really was, but that for sure didn't mean she wasn't stressed about making it as perfect as possible. She knew the kids would be up soon but thankfully adults would start milling about soon enough and be able to help out with the kids and anything else and they were always eager to help out. It was one thing she appreciated about their friends and family. Though she was glad that her parents were staying with Alex's so they did see her this stressed out nor did her mom try and jump in to help.

The house filled with movement soon enough and of course Rian was the first to come looking for coffee, a babbling Delphi in his arms. "Jack's stuck playing in Noah's room," he announced with a grin and glanced around. "Where's the coffee? I smell coffee." It only took a little longer until food for the afternoon was simmering and breakfast was spread out on the big dining table. Alex found Sophie in the kitchen and reached for her hand to pause her in grabbing more things to take to the dining table, and he pulled her into him a little bit, leaning in to steal a kiss from her lips. "Breakfast looks absolutely delicious and all that's being prepared right now smells amazing," he murmured softly.

Everyone was moving around soon enough when Rian came down with Delphi in his arms all excited to be getting attention from her uncle. "There's always coffee." she said glancing at Rian. "When has there ever not been coffee." she chuckled as she continued working away. At some point everything was nearly prepped, breakfast was on the table, people that were there already digging into everything. When Alex took her hands and turned her towards him, she looked at him. "Thank you." she said with a smile. "I've got everything almost going now so we just have to you know wait for everything to be done but luckily there's time for that. Are the kids watching the parade?"

"That sounds like timing is pretty good," he said with a small smile. "You don't have to stress so much, everyone's going to love this." He held her hands for a moment before letting them go. "Are you gonna come sit so we can eat some breakfast too?" he asked as he moved to refill his coffee and took a sip from it.

"I just want it to be perfect." she said, "That I can make things as nice for Thanksgiving as any other American." Since she was a Brit trying to do the traditional dinner. "I'm going to grab my own second cup of coffee and then I will have some breakfast." she said with a nod. "First." she pulled him back kissing him again. "Thank you I know I'm being a little over the top I just... want to impress your parents, my parents, everyone."

"It's gonna be perfect," he chuckled softly. "Don't worry so much, baby." He smiled when she pulled him back in and he kissed her back happily. "You're doing just fine, just glad you came back to bed," he teased slightly and reached up to brush her caress her cheek and then leaned in once again, kissing her softly again. After pulling away, he took her mug to fill it up with more coffee before they could settle at the table with anyone else who was up and hungry.

She gave a smile when he told her not to worry so much. "I still shouldn't have slept that long, I had to cut out homemade biscuits and bread and now have to use pre-made ones." she said glancing at him chuckling softly because she knew he really wasn't going to care about that, he was going to care about her stress level. Heading out they sat down and after talking and joking around they ate and were full she watched as all the kids playing on the ground with each other all happily, with Willa at the lead.

Alex loved all the commotion with having so many people around and while it could be exhausting, mostly it was just easier with the kids and everyone was in good spirits. Willa was leading her siblings to play and the three of them looked like they were having a blast. "Do you need me to do anything else in the kitchen?" Alex asked eventually as they cleaned up from breakfast. "I wanna run down to the barn to check up on the animals and then I hop in the shower before the big dinner and more people get here," he told her with a smile. "But I can help first, if you need me to do anything."

She knew by the end of the night or the next few days even, they'd be exhausted. As they got up from breakfast, she was grateful that the other women were helping to clean up. Willa was bossing them around playing some kind of version of the Macy's Day parade with their stuffed animals before they headed into the kitchen. "No, it's okay, I've got it for right now." she said nodding, "Go do what you need to do and I'll be here. Everything should be fine right now."

"Let me know when you need me," Alex said with a smile before he changed into his more outdoorsy farm clothes to head down to the barn. Jack tagged along, and Willa came running after him once she saw his farm ensemble and his boots on. So he got her bundled up to come with as well and little Sansa was by their side as well. She was a little sceptical at first but easily started to like all the bigger farm animals. They were outside for a bit, then Alex got Willa bathed and dressed up in a dress to look a little more fancy for dinner. After taking a shower himself, Alex dressed up a little too. Dinner was a blast everyone loved the food, just as Alex had expected and by the time the kids were in bed, the parents and a few friends had left so it was really just the band, Annie and Savannah left. "Oh, maybe we should light up the fire pit outside, bundle up and hang out there," Alex suggested.

The clean-up from everything was going to be a nightmare, but Sophie was firmly in a mood that was that was for tomorrow to worry about. Tonight was about drinking delicious wine and getting a little tipsy now that she had pulled it all off. Once the kids were put to bed and she was on her fourth glass of red wine she heard Alex's suggestion and looked up. "Oh I like that, that'd be perfect" she said, "We'll definitely need to bundle up though." she said. Since she was all dressy for Thanksgiving this definitely wouldn't do to keep her warm outside. "I can take Annie and Savannah upstairs and we can just use my clothes and then if you boys want to get the fire going, I think we have some stuff to make s'mores, roasted marshmallows, and all those kind of treats.' she offered.

It had been a really nice evening and once all the food was done and served, Sophie seemed a lot more relaxes. Alex knew it could be the wine that had them all a little tipsy, but mostly the pressure of getting everything done was off of her now. They were lounging in the living room before the idea of starting a fire popped into his head and everyone seemed to agree it would be nice. "Oh s'mores!" Jack said excitedly. Most of them changed as well to get out of the fancy and into more comfortable clothes but since Annie and Savannah needed to find some of Sophie's things to wear, Alex headed outside to start the fire. They had just spread the chairs around the pit and gotten some more so they could all fit when the girls returned and brought all they needed to make s'mores and roasted marshmallows. Alex settled in one of the chairs and set his phone up to have it hooked to the monitors they had in the kids rooms to make sure they were all safe and sound.

She knew once she said s'mores Jack was in, and it was amusing given they also had pies and cake and all other kinds of dessert that had been laid out but they were gushing over the s'mores. Sometimes it was the simpler things that was appreciated. They'd be able to make whatever kind they wanted given they had all kinds of chocolate on hand thanks to Sophie and loving chocolate. Upstairs she changed into a pair of sweats and handed a pair to each Annie and Savannah to wear before also giving them sweatshirts to get nice and cozy and fuzzy socks sicne she didn't have extra slippers laying around. Once they got back downstairs, she found everything set up and took her wine glass filling it again. "This is a perfect way to end the night." she said skipping the chair and sliding into Alex's lap.

The fire was cracking away and Alex couldn't help but think how perfect this was. It was cold out but they were bundled up and the fire was giving off enough heat for them to not be freezing. He smiled when the girl's returned and was just looking around for his own glass of wine, realizing it wasn't just empty but also out of reach anyway, that when Sophie slid into his lap, he took the wine glass to take a sip and then handed it back to her. "Perfect way to end a damn great night," he agreed with a smile.

When Alex took her wine glass to sip out of it she grinned. “You’re lucky I’m good at sharing.” She teased as she snuggled into her his body and took her glass back and her own sip. “Wait till I make myself a Reese’s peanut butter cup s‘ more.” But right now, she was content with just being able to relax and lay back in Alex’s arms and not worry about anymore cooking like that for a long, long time.

"I'm out of wine," he said as if that was explanation enough and then he chuckled softly as she snuggled into him more as comfortably as it was possible on the chair they were sitting in. "Mmh, are you gonna chair that too?" Alex smirked slightly, sneaking his arm around her though and resting back comfortably. After all the food they had it was funny how they could all even be thinking about s'mores. "You did great today, y'know," he murmured in Sophie's ear, a soft smile playing on his lips as he turned his head to look at her slightly.

“Well, you should have taken care of that before I sat down on your lap.” She teased him but she was more than willing to share because she was getting tipsy. “Definitely not sharing.” She Said when it came to her s’mores. When his voice dropped and she heard him she gave a small smile. “Thank you. I think your parents were really happy with everything.” She said. “Mine We’re so happy to see the kids.”

"You did not give me much of a warning," Alex laughed, but he really didn't mind. He liked that she simply ignored the chair they put out and took a seat in his lap instead and he wouldn't push her off just to get more wine. "They were. I think they're having a blast with your parents around too," he said, "I think I heard something about driving them around tomorrow. Think they may be up to some sightseeing." He really was glad they got along so well and he knew with how much they were traveling through the year, both sets of grandparents missed out on time with the little ones sometimes.

“Are you complaining about me sitting in your lap?” She asked raising a brow smirking at him. “Because I can go sit all by myself.” She pointed to the chair next to him and acted like she was going to get up off of him. “I’m really glad they are that they’re getting along so well. Not all parents do but seeing them get along and then going out to see places with your parents tomorrow makes me really really happy.”

"Oh no, you stay right here," Alex said quickly and his arm around her tightened a little bit to keep her in place. "It's good how well they do get along, right? They're having a good time," he chuckled softly and tugged her into him a little more. "How ‘bout those s'mores mh?"

His arm tightened around her and she snuggled back into him. “That’s what I thought.” She quipped. “It’s so good I mean until they gang up on us all together then we’ll regret it.” She chuckled softly. “For s’more I’m gonna have to move you know.”

"They're not gonna gang up against us,” Alex laughed softly. His arm held her tightly and he shook his head. "You can't move. You're shielding me from the heat of the fire so perfectly," he teased slightly.

"You never know." she said, "they could absolutely gang up on us when they get their mind to something. Don't underestimate our parents now that they're hanging out together." she chuckled softly. "So you want s'mores but you don't want me to move to protect you from the heat of the fire?" she asked raising a brow as she took a sip of her wine. "How to you think we're going to get those s'mores then?"

"Exactly," he said as if he was making perfect sense. Alex chuckled softly before taking her glass of wine with a grin. "I guess if you really want s'mores, I'll let you shift a little bit." He took a small sip of the wine before hanging the glass back and loosening his grip on her, his arm resting on the side of the chair, hand hanging there for a moment, but he almost jumped when something nudged it and he glanced down to see Sansa staring at him like she was ready to hop up and cuddle. "What's up, girl?" he cooed, petting her head a little bit. "You can't come up to cuddle right now, I only have so much room in my lap," he chuckled softly. "Your fur is so gonna smell like fire tomorrow. Maybe we'll have to bathe you."

"Oh, you'll let me?" she teased again with a soft laugh as she leaned in and kissed his lips. "Get a room." she heard one of the people say and she laughed against his lips. "They're always so mean to us you know that?" she quipped before she shifted to grab a marshmallow and a peanut butter cup and roasted the marshmallow before stuffing it together with the Reese’s cup between two graham crackers. Taking a bite she groaned, in a loud, drawn out, pleasured fill way. "So good, with Reese’s cups are..." she moaned again. "Superior by far." she said as Sansa came trotting over to them. "Aww she just wants some cuddle babe, I can move she can definitely keep you safe too." Teasing him as she reached down to pet the pup. "Definite bath, for all the dogs though, Porky is stinky." Which wasn't new for him he was always running around through things.

"That's just cause they're jealous," Alex laughed softly. Sophie shifted in his lap to reach forward and grab what she needed to make herself a s'more and Alex just watched in amusement how much she loved it. "Superior by far?" he repeated with a small smirk before Sansa came and caught his attention. "You hear that? She'd make room for you," he chuckled and when Sophie reached down to pet Sansa too, she let out a bark and then jumped up with her paws up against the side of the chair. "Oh, are you excited for your bath tomorrow? Let's hope you'll like it more than the other dogs."

"Superior by far, far better than just basic chocolate and marshmallow. the added peanut butter is perfection." she nodded, taking another bite of the ultra sweet concoction. "Are you going to get a bath and get extra clean." she murmured as she moved to help Sansa squeeze up between them, she was still a puppy but a bigger one than most but she wasn't huge yet. "Well let's just hope she's better than porky at the very least."

[Sophie | Alex]

Traveling from Australia back to the states was torture enough but then hopping on a plane with a new puppy and three little kids left Alex exhausted. He spent most of Sunday just trying to get accustomed to being at home and life slowing down (though it was never really slow with the farm and the kids). On Monday they were all getting ready to head out to take little Sansa to the park for the first time. "You have to keep your jacket on, Willa or we can't go out," Alex warned as he was getting Sansa on her leash and glanced over to see how quick Sophie was with getting Noah and Delphi ready.

Sophie was happy to have Alex back. Getting them from LA to Baltimore had been a crazy trip but they had done it, taken some time to settle in, and now they wanted some normalcy. Which meant going out of the house, being regular people, bringing the kids to the park. Getting Noah in his coat wasn’t an issue and Delphi was fine in hers since it kept her warm and she loved to be snuggly warm. Alex of course was making sure Willa kept her coat on much to her dismay. “Okay we’re ready.” She said getting them all lined up. “Think getting them to the park, let them run around and Sansa time to explore will be good for them.”

"Daddyyy," Willa whined as she once again started undoing the zipper on her jacket and Alex sighed. "No princess, it's cold outside, you're gonna get sick if you don't wear that. Come on, let's go outside and you'll see," he told her before turning to Sophie with a smile. "Yeah, it's good to get them out of the house to burn off some energy," he chuckled as they ushered the kids outside and to the car. It wasn't a very long drive thankfully, and at the park, Alex got the stroller out, just in case one of the kids got sleepy quickly, before putting a long leash on Sansa but holding it short as he got her out of the car too. "Alright, are we all ready?"

Once they arrived she got Delphine out of the car and even though she was walking she couldn’t keep up with Willa or even Noah at this point so it was easier to put her in the stroller and let her get pushed along. She pushed the stroller with blankets tucked underneath for them to sit on and they headed off both the two eldest running off to play in the park, Willa already bossing Noah around in what they were going to do on the playground. Sophie set up right by it so they could keep close and she sat down and pulled a blanket around her. “Definitely much chillier here than California.” She laughed.

"And to think Willa tried to refuse her jacket," Alex said with a chuckle as he loosened the leash so Sansa could explore as he himself sat down besides Sophie so he could watch their kids play on the playground, where Willa had very strong ideas on what they were supposed to do and immediately yelled for Noah when he decided to make his own decisions. "They're hilarious to watch," Alex chuckled softly.

“She will never want to wear a jacket. You wear it but don’t love it I think she’s a space heater like her father.” She figured that would make the most sense. Watching as Sansa started to explore with the longer leash. “She’s so bossy.” She laughed. “She gets that from you.” Sophie teased glancing up at Alex.

"That's not true. I have a lot of jackets I love," Alex argued with a grin as they watched the kids and the dog have a good time. "Excuse me? When am I bossy?" Alex raised his brows at her questioningly and grinned at her slightly. "Let her be bossy as long as they just have a good time."

“You have jean jackets you like to wear to look cool not actual jackets to keep warm.” She rolled her eyes. When he asked, she raised a brow, “should I call all the boys in the band and ask if you’re bossy or not?” She teased again knowing he could be intense and not that he meant to be bossy but he was a perfectionist. “But she’s bossing Noah around like he’s her little toy.” She said laughing. Though Noah kept toddling off to do his own thing.

"They keep me warm enough," Alex argued. "No, I very much don't think they're gonna say I'm bossy." Though maybe he could be sometimes. "She's trying to boss him around but he clearly didn't get the memo." It was hilarious to watch in a way and Alex laughed softly. "Did we bring enough blankets to warm them up in case they get too cold?"

“Noah! Listen!” Screeched Willa when he was off playing through the jungle gym which Sophie was just glad he wasn’t trying to climb. “Yeah she’s not you at all.” She laughed. “Yes, there’s enough blankets for everyone in here.” She said nodding. “And we have a few snacks and water so we can at least enjoy it for a little bit.”

"Hey, I don't ever screech," Alex joked. They had definitely come prepared and so he didn't mind leaning back a bit, just holding onto Sansa's leash so she couldn't run off while watching the little ones play.

“I mean…” a grin tugging to her lips knowing he would want to protest. The kids continued to play for a bit before a couple other kids came running onto the playground. They were a bit older but that didn’t seem to deter Willa who immediately went to make friends with them asking if they wanted to play princesses and pirates.

"I do not," Alex argued immediately, which he realized is exactly what Willa would do too. Not long after that, two kids came running who their oldest immediately started to make friends with and it took Alex a moment to realize who they were and he shifted a little when he did and glanced over at Sophie. "That's Presley and Gavin," he said, hoping she'd realize it was his former niece and nephew who clearly hadn't seen him yet and Alex glanced around the park until he spotted Erin and Mike, the kids' parents and, much to his surprise, Lisa tagging along with him. "Babe," he said softly, nodding in their direction so she'd see and be warned before they reached them, but it was then that Presley noticed him and came running over to say hi. "Alex!" She beamed and Alex greeted her with a warm smile. "Hi P.," he chuckled. "What are you doing here?" She started telling him about how they were taking a walk with Aunt Lisa and then she spotted the puppy who came to sniff at her and asked if she could pet her and of course they couldn't say no. Willa was making friends with Gavin, who Alex figured must be 7 or 8 by now and they had both just gotten so big it was crazy. When Lisa, Mike and Erin came closer he was sure they realized who the kids were talking to and yet they couldn't just stay away with Presley all over the puppy and Gavin clearly making friends with Willa. "Hi," Alex greeted them when they were close enough and they greeted both Sophie and him back.

When Alex said he did not with a slight raise in his voice she grinned raising her brows as if she had just proven her point without having to say one more thing. When he said who the kids were, she was surprised and glanced up knowing that they were both the niece and nephew of Lisa and when their parents arrived and she spotted Lisa she shifted to make sure Delphine was sitting comfortably. She didn’t want to seem like she was uncomfortable because she knew Alex had no interest in the pink haired woman, but she had been his wife. When the girl came running over and immediately was wrapped up in the puppy she smiled. “She’s a cuddler.” Sophie said. “What’s her name?” She asked. “Sansa.” She said. “Sansa?” The little girl repeated. “Willa don’t be bossy.” She called out seeing her now trying to boss around both of the little boys into playing whatever she was trying to come up with so she could be in charge. “Hi.” Sophie said softly looking back at the couple and Lisa.

"Yeah, Sansa," Alex confirmed with a nod and reached out to scratch the puppy's ear before sitting up a little straighter again. Willa was clearly trying to be the one in charge and Gavin didn't seem to mind while Noah was curious about the boy, but Alex was sure they were going to be good. "Mommy they have a puppy!" Presley said once her parents and Lisa were close enough and it was obvious she was already gushing over the furry dog. Alex was sure had it only been the adults, they'd passed each other with a quick 'hi' but now the kids were playing and didn't seem to want to part ways immediately, so a brief, slightly awkward conversation followed, but Alex tried to be as normal about it as possible either way, for years he'd gotten along well with Mike after all. Eventually, the kids came running towards them and Gavin gave Alex a big hug since he'd known him from when he was a little kid and Willa walked up to the adults she didn't really know yet and tried to make conversation.

Presley was all about playing with the puppy and the adults realized with the kids playing together it wasn’t something they could just pass by. They made awkward small talk or Sophie did, Alex fell back into what looked so normal for him. He laughed, joked around, kept conversation flowing while she tried to add a few things here and there but it felt awkward when she tried to talk. The kids came up to them. “Mommy can we play more?” Willa said. “Delli can play too!” Willa said. “She’s so cute I can help her play.” Presley offered looking up at the one-year-old and Sophie swallowed. “Of course.” Standing her up. She could walk she just wasn’t super steady on grass or anything as they headed off to all play together. “Would you look at that who would think our kids all playing together?” Lisa’s brother saying and Sophie smiling. “Your kids are really cute.” Lisa said “thanks, they’re cute now you should wait and see when Willa gets really bossy takes right after her…” she didn’t finish as the brother finished. “Alex” he grinned.

The kids really did seem to have a good time and no matter how weird or awkward this moment was for the rest of them, neither of them wanted to pass by the opportunity for them to play. Willa came running to get Delphine to play too and the little girl's eyes widened in such excitement, that there was no way Alex or Sophie could say no to that. And Presley was so gentle with her too, it struck Alex how much they had grown up. When Mike said something about their kids playing together, Alex chuckled softly and nodded. "Yeah, didn't really expect that," he said honestly. Lisa then chimed in and Alex smiled thankfully before once again the topic fell on him being bossy and he scrunched up his nose a bit and shook his head. "I'm so not bossy," he argued causing everyone to laugh a little bit. "She just likes to be in control," he added with a shrug. The kids were playing for a little longer until eventually they seemed tired and Lisa, Erin and Mike said their goodbyes, Presley and Gavin both came to hug Alex and they did hug Sophie too before they were off and Alex let out a soft breath when they were out of sight. He looked over at Sophie briefly, offering a smile before reaching for a blanket to wrap that around Noah to warm him up. "That's better, isn't it?"

The kids were playing so well together and Presley was really good with the kids, Noah was obsessed having another little boy to play with that was older than him since he didn't get to see their friends who were out in LA as much as they would like. "Whatever you say baby." The tone of Sophie's voice obvious a little wavering like she was a mix of anxious and protective without being rude. "Which she learned from you, and you letting her be in control." she chuckled, "she's a daddy's girl through and through." Which was true. After a while they said their goodbyes and the kids even hugged Sophie, they really were sweet and she watched as Alex bundled up Noah and Sophie did the same with Delphi bundled her up and Willa curled up into Sansa's fur seeing that they were all getting tired.

By the time they were off and it was just Sophie, Alex and the kids, the little ones were tired. Delphi struggled to keep her eyes open and Alex bundled Noah up who said he was cold while Willa just curled into Sansa's fur. "Think we should get ready to head back? They all look like they need a nap," Alex suggested, looking over at Sophie. He felt like she had been very quiet for a while now, but maybe it was just the awkwardness of the situation they had just gotten out of.

"We should, I rather them sleep in their warm beds than catch a cold out here." Three kids with colds at the same time would be absolute hell. Her voice was quiet, and she had to admit she knew she was being quiet. Seeing Alex with them, the kids with them, they worked so well together. He so easily joked around and slipped back into that normal role like he had never left that it almost looked... right. She gathered things up and Delphine was falling asleep in her arms. "I'm going to go get her into her car seat." she said as she headed off. "Come on Noah, follow mummy."

"Yeah, it's a little too chilly out here for that," he agreed and started getting up to get things packed up. Noah was bundled in the blanket he tried to hold up while following Sophie and Alex frowned as she headed off. "Willa, come, we gotta catch mommy before she drives off without us," he said and picked up Sansa's leash. He held that in the same hand he used to push the stroller while their eldest daughter held onto his other hand and they followed Sophie and the other two to the car. It took a moment to get everyone, including the puppy, settled in the car and even though Alex knew it was a short drive, he had a feeling by the time they reached the farm house, the kids were gonna be passed out.

The car ride was silent once the kids were in, then dozing off almost in no time including the puppy. Which was going to make it interesting to get them all into the house. Once they drove the short drive home she slipped out and managed to get Delphine against her hip and tucked in and got a baby wrap that was in the car to hold her while she took the dog’s leash. She knew Alex would be better at carrying two sleeping kids than she would and though sleepy the pup followed. Once in the house Sansa curled up into her bed and Sophie took Delphine to her room and changed her before settling her down into her crib and making sure she was warm enough and heading into the next baby room to help.

Over the years they were together now, Alex had learned to read Sophie, not all of her of course but he knew the silent drive home meant something more than just all of them being tired. Once home, he got Willa out of her seat who even though she was sleeping easily had a death grip on him so he could get Noah out without so much as worrying about Willa slipping from his arm. He got them both inside and put Willa down in the chair Noah had in his room so he could change him out of his clothes into more comfy ones to sleep in. Once he was down, Alex picked Willa back up to bring her to her own room and got her settled for her nap as well. He was just tucking her in when Sophie came into the room. "They're all out, the park exhausted them," he told her quietly.

She helped get Willa all settled and tucked into her bed and covered before they headed out and she closed the door. “I know the fresh air was good for them. Delphine is out like a light and so is the puppy, so I think I’m gonna take advantage and lay down too.” She said before turning and heading off into their room. She changed into some shorts and a hoodie before crawling into the overly large bed and snuggling down into the warm blankets.

Sophie really didn't give him much time to protest or say anything before she was off to their bedroom. He let out a soft sigh and headed down to the kitchen to make sure the dogs had enough water and then he put on the kettle to make some tea. A couple minutes later he was carrying two cups of tea upstairs and into the bedroom where Sophie was curled up. He put one cup down for her and placed the other on his bedside table before walking into the closet to get changed into something more comfortable too before he too climbed into bed. He shifted onto his side and looked at Sophie for a moment. "Penny for your thoughts?" he asked after a moment.

She gave a smile when he came upstairs and set down a cup of tea next to her and she thanked him, she did love her tea. She took it sipping it and loving the warmth. When he returned and climbed into bed she felt him shift to look at her and she glanced at him. Furrowing her brows when he said penny for her thoughts and she didn’t fully know what he was looking for or maybe she did. “We need to start deciding about Christmas soon and presents or we’re going to be rushing it’s already nearly mid November.”

"Do you wanna do a day of Christmas shopping while we're here then? I do think there's enough time to do it in London, but we can go here if that's less stressful for you," Alex said with a shrug. Sitting up more, he took a sip of his own tea and then put the cup down again to face Sophie again. "You know that's not what I meant though, right?"

“I think starting would be good its Delphine’s first Christmas she’ll understand like more and Willa and Noah fully understand Father Christmas.” She said which meant it was going to be so much more fun. “What did you mean then?” She asked taking a sip of her tea and turning more towards him.

"They're gonna love Christmas," Alex chuckled softly. Shifting to face her again, he looked at her for a moment. "I wanna know what's on your mind, what was on your mind. We just came back from a hell of an awkward situation and you've been so quiet since."

“It’s so exciting now that they’re getting older and can enjoy it and see how happy they are for presents.” She looked forward to the kids all excited Christmas morning. “I don’t know I just.. you still fit so well with them you know it may have been awkward but you wouldn’t know you were so normal with them and I don’t know I wonder what it would have been like if you and Lisa had stayed together or decided to get back together.”

Alex furrowed his brows slightly as she talked and he shook his head a little bit. "I played it off, babe. I felt really awkward, I just didn't want to have that show when the kids were getting along so well," he said with a soft sigh and shifted to sit up a little bit straighter. "After we split for good, there was never any moment where I wanted to get back with her, and we divorced for a reason," he told her softly. "I want to be with you and there's never any regret or even thought about why I didn't end up with her again. I don't want her, I want you, and I wouldn't have wanted to spent today at the park with anyone but you and our kids."

She knew it was true Alex had been so supportive in the last few weeks while her worry had been intense, but truth was her worry was getting worse. The closer they got to four years together, the same with her ex before he just decided she was worth nothing to him anymore and left her with no reason. It was making her feel more unsettled, it wasn’t fair to Alex he hadn’t done anything, he was sitting there professing how much he wanted her and only her and their kids and family they created. “I know you want me I just… I could see how it could have been Lisa had the cards been different.” She said. “Or if you changed your mind, she’s gorgeous and sweet and I can’t even dislike her like I can some of your exes.” which was true, “and I don’t know. You two just, I see it even if it felt awkward you two still have this natural way near each other and I get it.”

"We spent many years together, of course we had a way to be around each other but that doesn't mean I still feel the way about her the same way, and I really don't know how it could have been with her and I don't wanna know either." He let out a soft breath and then leaned over to take the cup of tea from her hands and put it down to the side table before reaching for Sophie and tugging her in so she'd move to straddle his lap. "There's a reason I never had kids with her, we weren't so great together and you... You make me want to be the best version of myself, better even and I know I probably don't say this enough because it just... It's hard for me to look so far ahead, but I don't want my future to be without you." He slid his hands up and down her thighs mindlessly.

She knew that was true they had been together on and off since what they were teens? They had that part of each other and she didn’t hold it against him. She really didn’t, she knew he had a past like she had one. He tugged her over him to straddle his lap so she was facing him, her hips settling so naturally in his. His hands were caressing her thighs and she sighed out, it wasn’t that she was trying to make some connection to get him back to his ex she was just feeling unsettled. “I don’t.. I just I am so scared that I want you to be my future that I’m scaring you off because I want more dogs and more babies and that isn’t what you want deep down and some say that you’re gonna get sick and just leave and I can see it being so easy with someone like Lisa who just is going with the flow on things and I’m just so… I get my heart set on things and then we get stuck in this who is gonna be upset and I don’t want to lose you.”

He let his hands caress gently, a way to try and soothe her while she talked, though Alex almost scoffed when she said Lisa is just going with the flow. "That's not true though, I get it's easy to assume that but it's not that way. Or it really wasn't," he said with a shrug. People changed so maybe things were different now. He was different in ways too, ways that Sophie brought out in him without really realizing she was doing it. "If there's anything I really didn't want, I'd tell you and we'd figure it out. We've always figured things out haven't we?" he offered a smile and brought his hand up to cup her cheek. "I love you, Soph. And I'm willing to struggle through anything life throws at us with you."

“I know I just… I don’t know why I’m feeling these ways lately.” She said with a shrug. “I know you want this to be here with me and our kids I don’t… doubt that.” She didn’t at least not in the way that she thought he was thinking she did. “Yeah but there’s some things that I worry what if we can’t figure them out then what? What happens if I become useless to you.” Her voice becoming small and she knew he would figure this was stemming back once again to her ex and the emotional damage he had put her through. She nodded. “I don’t know why I’m acting like this or what’s wrong with me.”

"What do you mean you become useless?" He asked with his brows furrowed. "There's no what if we can't figure it out, just.. we will. I know we will," he said firmly and he'd never meant it as much as he did right now. It was almost funny how the more Sophie worried, the more sure he felt about this, about them. His hand held her cheek and his thumb brushed over her cheek, eyes locking with hers as he brushed the tip of his thumb over her lips. "Nothing's wrong with you, you're just overthinking," he murmured softly, dropping his hand to her neck and sliding it to the back so he could pull her in and pepper a few kisses against her lips. "Stop thinking so much," he said between kisses.

“When I’m no longer of use. When we can’t agree on something or I don’t make you happy anymore so I’m just something to get rid of.” The words pouring from her which was really the emotional toll her ex had taken on her which he knew some of it but they had never talked ever little detail of things. His hand slid around to grasp the back of her neck pulling her in peppering kisses against her mouth. “I can’t stop thinking about it I don’t know why lately it just…” she sighed. “Make me stop thinking.”

"There's always gonna be little things we don't agree on, maybe big things too, but we can figure it out," he told her softly before his hand slid to the back of her neck to pull her in. His kissed her softly, breaks between kisses only just long enough so they could husk out works. "I want you to trust me on this," he murmured against her lips. "We got this." A small smile tugged at his when she told him to make her stop thinking and this time when he kissed her, he didn't pull back but let the kiss linger, lips gliding with hers as he started to deepen the kiss, his grip on the back of her neck tightening the littlest bit and his other hand sliding up her thigh further.

He seemed so sure of things, and normally the roles were reverse. Alex was the more nervous about things regarding future and things being so permanent and Sophie the confident one and when things were reversed he so naturally slipped into that protective role. Without any doubt even saying he wanted her to trust him on this. “We do.” Her voice sounded a little more shaky than his but he didn’t waver as his mouth glided with hers pulling her by the neck in tightly and groaning into his mouth.

He noticed her voice sounding a little shaky, but he didn't plan on arguing about that. Not when she had so clearly asked him to stop her from overthinking. Their lips locked in a heavy kiss and Alex moved his arms to wrap around her, one hand on her neck still the other on her lower back and gripping into the hoodie she had put on to be comfortable. He held her close like this, her body pressing into his the way she was still straddling his lap.

She was glad he wasn’t focusing on her mind and that he was set on distracting her mind instead, she needed that right now. Being close to Alex was something that always made her feel better and she knew intimacy wasn’t always the way to fix things but there wasn’t really anything wrong with them so she craved knowing their bodies were close as she pressed her body into his as their mouths moved against each other.

Kissing easily distracted them both and they spent a good amount of time doing that right then. Alex let his hands explore eventually, gripping into the clothes Sophie was wearing here and there before they found the hem of the hoodie and he dipped his fingers underneath, caressing at the bare skin beneath. He took a moment, still kissing, before he started to push the fabric up to start taking the hoodie off of Sophie, their kiss barely breaking to pull it off over her head before their lips locked in a kiss once again.

Once his hands slipped under her hoodie finding bare skin and his touch feeling like fire against her skin. Another moan into his mouth when he removed her hoodie and their mouths reconnected her hands coming up to cup his face and she pressed her hips down into his to pull herself closer to him.

Alex was very aware that by the time their kissing would stop, their lips would probably be swollen, but he could never get enough of her, and he didn't want to stop now and go back to thinking so very much. He felt her hands on his face, her body shifting to press more into him, hips pressing down into his and he groaned into their kiss. His lips parted, tongue dipping out against her lips as his hands slid up her stomach to her breasts, cupping and squeezing for a moment before his touch slid around and down her back instead, fingers dipping under the hem of her shorts she was wearing to press into her back.

She felt a bit breathless as they kissed, his mouth parting her lips and his tongue finding hers before his hands found her breast and squeezed them before pulling her into him by sliding down and grasping her back and pressing her into him more causing her hips to press down into him more. "Fuck. Al." she gasped. "Show me how much it's only me." she breathed wanting him to be that man to show her how much she was his.

He let his hands be all over, caressing over her skin and squeezing here and there, causing her to press down into him more. It was so hot how breathless she sounded and it easily brushed any reminder of their conversation from his mind. It was easy to focus on her, on this. She was already half naked in his lap, but he wanted more of her clothes gone, so he shifted them, rolling them over swiftly to press Sophie down into the mattress while he shifted to kneel over her and let his hands hook into the hem of her shorts and start peeling them off along with her underwear.

The feel of his hands against her was relaxing. It gave her a calming feeling to enjoy this and let herself get lost in how much he wanted her. When he switched them flipping them over, she felt his hands pull at the shorts pulling the underwear with them and leaving her bare and exposed to him feeling a slight pink tint cover her skin in a blush.

His eyes darted up the length of her body once the remaining clothes were off and he smiled when he saw the light blush on her cheeks. Alex almost felt slightly overdressed but he also just liked to take her in. He shifted as he dragged his eyes up her body, his hands reaching up to take his own shirt off before he leaned over her. Their lips were already pink and a little swollen from kissing, but he still found them in yet another hungry kiss.

She watched him lean up long enough to pull his shirt off his frame and toss it from his body before pulling her in again and kissing her in a hungry kiss. She knew she was overthinking a lot and he was showing her physically just how much he was into her and wanted her. Her hands shook slightly as they shifted to his pants and moved to push them down away from him wanting him to be as exposed as she was as a soft gasp left her lips.

It was like their lips were magnetically drawn to each other, each time they had to break apart to shift or lose some piece of clothing, their kiss broke only for the briefest moments. Alex felt her hands moving to his pants and once they were undone, she started pushing them down, struggling a bit to get them fully out of the way so he moved and pushed himself up to help take them off so he was just as naked as Sophie was. He didn't immediately move back on top of her, but rather let his hands slide up her bare legs and leaning down so he could trail kisses from her hips, up her chest until eventually he placed a few nibbling kisses on her neck.

It felt good to feel him so drawn to her, like he couldn't get enough of her in that moment. Sure he had seemed like that before but right now he really did seem like he couldn't get enough of her and not because he was attempting to prove a point. His hand grazed her thighs and her body shivered as his mouth trailed her hips to her breasts to her neck and she moaned out loudly not really thinking but the feel of his mouth on her was so inviting.

Hearing Sophie moan was one of his favorite sounds to get out of her and so when she did moan out loudly, he smirked slightly against her lips rather than worry about anyone hearing. It was just them and the kids in the house and the three little ones were passed out and napping away. So he let his hand caress and wander, taking in how soft her skin was underneath his touch while he nibbled at her neck and then trailed the kisses a little lower again. He shifted to press down into her again, settling between her legs and he was sure she could feel just how much he wanted her even without rolling his hips into hers.

Sophie wasn't oblivious she knew that he loved to make her moan, to hear her be vocal because of what he was doing to her. His body shifted and moved to let his body pressed down against her and settle between her legs and she could feel his hard length between her legs and she gasped softly arching her back a tiny bit to bring him closer to her. Her legs shifted spreading wider against the bed her nails raking down his back.

Their bodies easily shifted together, making them press closer together and his length to rub between her legs, feeling the wetness pooling there from arousal and Alex moaned softly at that. He could feel her hands on his back, her nails on his skin. He could never get enough of her touch, of her. He let his hand move between them, between her legs when she spread them wider against the bed and for a moment, he rubbed against her, playing with her, wanting to make her want this more while he was starting to ache for her, to be so connected. It only needed a little bit of adjusting for him to finally slide into her, not wasting too much time to bury his length inside of her. They fit so perfectly together, it felt so good how snuck she was around his length and he soon started picking up a pace of thrusting his hips.

The arousal between her legs was a dead giveaway to how much she wanted him, noise or no noise falling from her lips. She couldn't hide how wet she was as he touched her, the way his hand dragged between wet lips, caressing in a soft way that was more maddening than she had ever felt before, to make her want it even more. Another loud moan slipped from her mouth this one more mixed with a slight growl like she wanted more of him. His body shifting to follow through and suddenly her walls were being stretched around his length and he pressed into her before his hips started to move in and out of her in a hard thrust, her body even bouncing a little, as her cries of pleasure started to fill the room around her.

He knew this wasn't the time for gentle lovemaking. They were both still filled with emotions and they just needed this moment of absolute craziness for each other, fulfilling their cravings. So he didn't go for a slow and soft rocking of his hips but rather picked up a pace of hard thrusts quickly, causing Sophie's body to bounce a little. The sounds she made were like music to his ears and Alex groaned, biting the skin on her collar bone playfully before kissing up her neck, along her cheek and capturing her lips in a brief, heavy kiss. "You feel so fucking good baby," he moaned out.

"Oh fuck Alex!" she cried out and if you didn't know any better you'd think she was getting hurt, her voice loud and broken in between the way his hips moved hard against her. "Don't. Stop." Her words punctuated that wasn't meaning for him to stop it was her begging him not to stop. "Don't. Stop. God fuck. Don't. Stop!" she cried louder. His teeth bit into her skin and she cried out again her hips moving now to match his thrust in time. "Oh god, Al." she breathed nails digging in a little harder. "Oh fuck you feel so good in me."

She was loud and Alex loved it. It only made him want to keep going, feel her, hear her and make sure she knew how much he wanted her. There was a little force behind his thrusts that didn't happen often and he knew Sophie could feel the difference. Alex bit her skin lightly, then kissed the spot before placing more nibbling kisses. He shifted a little bit, pulling his legs so he was almost kneeling between her legs and could drape her legs over his thighs while having better access to thrust hard into her. "I won't stop.. fuck, you feel way too good. Soph," he husked out, licking his tongue over the spot he had just bit a little harder on - so maybe he was leaving his mark on her.

He was being forceful with the way he moved, not something he did often. Even when he would take her from behind it wasn't forceful to keep it known it wasn't him forcing himself on her but in this moment she drank it all up. She was practically falling apart in his hands, literally melting at his words. Her legs were draped over his thighs causing her to rise up some lifting her bottom up and the angle changing. It was harder, rougher, and she grasped at his skin. "Oh fuck yes." she cried again." she went to cry out but was gasping on her breath, the way his tongue licked at her skin she knew he had marked her and she didn't care, she'd worry about that later.

Alex let one of his hands slide under her, a silly attempt to hold her up a bit when her hips were already elevated by the way her legs were draped over his. He could feel her hands grasping at him, holding onto him as he kept thrusting hard and only picking up the pace a little bit more as his free hand slid up to the back of her neck to now pull her in for another heavy and hungry kiss. "Fuck, baby. So fucking good, Soph," he groaned. He was aware this wouldn't help if he was trying to last a long time, but this whole moment wasn't about making love all night anyway, so he wasn't worried about that but rather caught up in the moment and just how incredible it felt.

Her eyes closed to let the feelings wash over her body, the damp thin layer of sweat that was now covering her body making her slick and him easy to slide against her. "So fucking good." she gasped out as he was rough and hard with his movements. It was a moment between them where they were literally trying to show that they loved each other by fucking the hell out of each other till they couldn't breathe. At least that was what it felt as he pulled her up and pressed his mouth to hers in a rough kiss her mouth moving sloppy against his. Her body was pulled up some and her hands moved to prop herself up to push her hips down into his and grind against his cock her head thrown back in pleasure as she screamed out her walls tight against him knowing he wasn't one to stop at making her come just once.

They needed this, a moment of pure passion and a little roughness. It was like grabbing someone by the shoulders and shaking them out of a mindset, but they were fucking the hell out of each other instead. Her body so easily moved with him, their kiss sloppy but their hips still grinding together and Alex cursed under his breath when Sophie threw her head back and screamed out again. "I want to feel you, baby. Fuck I want you to come," he groaned, but he didn't really stop the pace he had settled on now with quick thrusts still burying him deep inside of her.

She knew she needed this, they needed this. To have them be rough and tough and just physically showing each moment how they felt for the other. Her hips moved with his as he said he wanted to feel her come on him. So she shifted a little bit to move a little more and she felt her walls tighten and she cried out his name and came hard around his cock her body shaking hard against the bed as it coursed through her body.

While Alex just loved hearing Sophie cry out in pleasure, be vocal about what she felt, he also loved feeling her come undone at whatever he was doing. She shifted, changing the angle the tiniest bit more before she reached that high and he groaned out, cursing as he felt her shaking against him a bit. "Fuck, yes. So good, baby," he murmured as he slowed for just a moment, leaning down to hover over her more again and capturing her lips in a kiss. "God," he groaned when he pulled back. "I want you to move, baby," he said, more of a demand than a question as he pushed himself up, sliding out of her and gasping at the loss of contact. He guided her to shift and turn around. When she was on her hands and knees in front of him, he shifted to line up with her again and reconnect them with a few slower thrusts before picking up the pace again quickly, and the force too as his hands gripped her waist.

She felt like she was on such a high in that moment, the feeling like a burning fire in the best way coursing through her veins. His lips captured hers to almost bring her back from wherever her brain had gone. When he said he wanted her to move she took a breath nodding as she shifted to move and let him help guide her how he wanted her and she was put on her hands and knees. She glanced over her shoulder giving a breathy pouty look as his hands grabbed her hips roughly and she gasped crying out in pleasure. "Oh! Oh! Harder!" she cried there was always something about this position that let her come out a little more wild.

Alex was panting, he couldn't deny he was close to his own release but he refused to be done yet, wanted just a little more. The brief loss of contact was both incredibly needed but also leaving him aching to be back inside of her. His cock was throbbing and he wanted to feel her, take her and so once she was on her hands and knees he could. His pace picked up but when Sophie asked him to go harder, he groaned loudly and pulled her hips back into his roughly as he thrust hard. "Oh god, fuck baby," he moaned.

It wasn't so much that she wanted faster, she wanted rougher, harder, the more animalistic side of them to be craving and drawn to each other. "Mmm fuck babe, you feel so good fucking me." she panted, glancing over her shoulder again her head tilting back to be able to watch his cock slide into and out of her glistening with her arousal coating him.

Alex let out an almost whined groan when Sophie looked back like she was eager to watch how they moved together, how connected they were, how their skin slapped together with each hard thrust she so perfectly matched. "Fuck, Soph.. So fucking good," he panted and squeezed her hips before one hand loosened its grip and dragged up her back instead until he could thread his fingers through her long blonde hair.

The way his body moved against hers, the connection their bodies made, the room filled with the sounds of their bodies against each other and their breathy moans and whines. His hand released from one side of her hips and moved to dig into her blonde hair and she cried out his name her head pulling back causing her back to arch more.

Of course she had to turn her head back around when he pulled at her hair, but he needed something to hold onto and he knew she'd appreciate the tug. Her back arched more and Alex groaned, his thrusts hard, burying his cock deep inside of her with each slam of hips. "Fuck," he cursed. He was so close now, but he was so eager to feel her again. "Soph," he breathed out, coming out in more of a pant since this was definitely leaving him out of breath.

He was being rough with her and ever part of her mind and body craved it. She loved seeing him so close to his release and getting sloppy as she too felt her legs shake as he moved had with each slam. “Come in me..” She breathed out. “I’m gonna come.” Not giving much time before her walls tightened around his cock again so willingly and she screamed out in pleasure.

Really, Sophie asking him to come inside of her and feeling her walls clench around his length just moments after was all he needed to reach that high they were both so eagerly looking for. He groaned out, moaning loudly and cursing out her name when he spilled inside of her. It was just a few more thrusts before his body fell against hers, his hands guiding her down to lay on the bed while he pressed down against her lightly, panting hard. "God, that was so good," he murmured after a moment, placing a much gentler kiss to the back of her shoulder now but still needed this moment to rest before he could lift himself on his elbows slightly to lift some of his weight off of her. They lingered like this for a moment, calming their breaths and enjoying the blissful feeling until Alex shifted a little and slid out of her, a soft groan leaving his lips. "Mmh, think we needed that," he chuckled softly, placing a kiss to her shoulder before rolling off of her. He was just shifting onto his side to look at the mark he had very obviously left on her neck when he heard the soft whimpering and calling of their eldest daughter, his eyes widening a bit before he was up and out of bed. Alex grabbed a pair of boxer briefs and his shirt that laying around on the floor to put back on before he slipped from the bedroom to head over to Willa's room and check on her, giving Sophie a little bit of time to rest.

She felt him press into her hard and then his body tense and the release he had to be craving as much as she had been, spill inside of her. The way he moaned out cursing her name, his hips pressing into her hard a few more times to take all of his release deep inside of her. As he guided her to the bed, she whimpered softly her body still feeling like it was on edge and sensitive. "So fucking good." she nodded out of breath. When he pulled out of her there was another whimper this one of disappointment that he no longer filled her in that way and she could feel the mixture of them tangled together between her legs spilling out of her. "we definitely needed that.. I needed that." she admitted and she knew he understood. Then came a cry and she sat up but was woozy and closed her eyes. Yeah, getting fucked like that could make you dizzy if you sat up too fast. "Oh." she said taking a few breaths. But before she could try and get up Alex was out of bed and half dressed in boxer briefs and his shirt and she fell back down to the bed as she took some deep breaths and pulled the blanket over her. As he moved out the door. "Want to order a pizza I'm starving now." she said but he was already out the door.

Alex rushed to their daughter's room. He never liked when the kids were sad and obviously they cried sometimes but he would always try to soothe them, and Sophie would too. He didn't doubt either of them would be out of bed immediately if their kids needed them, no matter what they were busy doing, but part of him was glad Willa cried for them after and not during the sex they just had. "Shh, princess, it's okay I'm right here," he cooed as he slipped into her room and moved over to find Willa standing in the middle of her room crying. She must've climbed out of bed but now stood there looking terrified. "It's okay, shh, did you have a bad dream?" He asked softly as he picked her up and carried her over to sit on the bed with her. "Mommy," the little girl cried softly and Alex was a little surprised. "Is mommy hurt?" she asked and Alex arched a brow a little bit. "No, no she's okay. Why would you think she's hurt? Did you have a bad dream?" he asked but Willa climbed out of his lap to sit in her bed and shook her head. "I heard mommy screaming," she said and Alex reached up to run his hand through his hair. "Oh.. no, no mommy's fine," he tried but Willa seemed too worried and so he tucked her in and promised her mommy would come to see her in just a second. When Alex returned to the bedroom, he couldn't help but chuckle softly and he rubbed the back of his head as he stood in the doorframe looking at where Sophie was curled under the blanket. "Uh, babe, I think you should… you should talk to Willa," he started. "She thinks you're hurt because, well.. she heard you screaming," he said, unable to hide a small grin that tugged at his lips.

She was grateful that they shared the responsibilities together, Alex was such a hands-on father, as much as she was a hands-on mother. Though there were times when the other knew the other one needed a moment or to just not jump right up and their kids crying, especially Willa at this time of night was rare. She had been sleeping through her naps and the night for years now, it didn't happen often she would be the one crying to bring their attention. Grabbing her phone she reached plucking it up and scrolled through to see what pizza places were open and she had to admit she was absolutely ravenous from their adventures tonight. Did she miss him being close to her in bed, yes, but it was far better that she cried after they had finished than in the midst of what had been a very hot and heavy tryst between the pair. Alex was gone for a bit before he returned peeking his head in the door. "You didn't answer if you wanted pizza, I'm starving and they have this pizza called a ..." she stopped seeing him and then him saying she should talk to Willa. "What's wrong?" she sat up draping the sheet over her naked frame. "she..heard.. she what?!" she gasped seeing him grin. "Oh don't you dare go grinning like that." slipping off the bed. "I'm a mess. And I was screaming is your fault." she said dropping her phone on the bed as she headed into the bathroom and cleaned herself with a washcloth between her legs and slipped on a pair of underwear to be safe and then a simple nightgown. "Come with me." she said completely embarrassed as she grabbed him by his shirt tugging him forward to follow her back to Willa's room. When she got there Willa was back out of bed and in tears again. "Mommy hurt?" she cried thinking she was actually hurt as she reached to pick up the little girl her legs wobbling some as she made her way back to the bed. "No, no. Willa, mommy isn't hurt." she said. "Mommy you was yelling." she cried tucking her head into her chest. "I know, I know." she glared at Alex. "Mummy was just playing a game with daddy and she got too loud okay?" she said soothing her hair. "I'm right here, see I'm okay." she sniffed. "You okay." she nodded as Sophie wiped her eyes. "You said pizza." The little girl popped up with next and she rolled her eyes. "This is your child." she said looking at Alex. "Come on, you need to get back to bed it's late."

Alex leaned against the doorframe while Sophie slipped out of bed and into the bathroom. He couldn't help but laugh when she told him it was his fault. "I'm not sorry," he smirked before her hand was grasping his shirt and she was tugging him along. "Babe," he said but followed to find Willa out of bed again and puckering out her lips while crying. Sophie picked her up and carried her to the bed - did she look a little wobbly? "Yeah, we were playing… a game," he said, almost sounding like a question as he moved over to crouch down in front of the bed. "I told you mommy's okay. You don't have to worry," he cooed softly and Willa tucked herself into Sophie’s chest before bringing up the pizza and causing Alex to chuckle. "No," Willa whined and gripped into Sophie's gown when she said to get back to bed. "I want pizza," she pouted. Alex looked from her to Sophie and shrugged. "I think we could let her have a bite of pizza but then it's back to bed right after, yes?" he suggested.

"You never are." she quipped when he said he wasn't sorry and she knew he meant it. Not that she wanted him to be sorry. She knew he'd pick up on her being wobbly in the legs and probably be far too proud of himself regardless if they were trying to soothe their daughter. "I'm sorry if we woke you playing." she said and she shook her head. "I woke up on my own, then I heard you screaming." she said and she sighed. "Willa, you have to go back to sleep if you wake up." she murmured. "I was playing with my dolls." she protested. "They wanted to play." she said. "Willa, your dolls were ready for bedtime and it's bedtime for you missy, me and daddy will try and keep games more quiet okay?" she said "Okay just a little bite of pizza then back to bed okay?" she said but you have to play in your room till it gets here okay?" she said and the little girl nodded happily.

Alex let out an almost grunted laugh trying to hold it back when Sophie said they were going to try and keep games more quiet. Willa, who seemed calmed down but wide awake now seemed satisfied with getting to play for a bit then have some pizza with them so once she was settled with her dolls, Alex headed out of the room again with Sophie. He grinned widely when they were out in the hall and the door was closed gently. "Mmh, what if I don't want you being more quiet when we 'play games'?" He questioned and poked her side slightly before wrapping his arm around her shoulders and tugging her into him.

Now that she was on the floor playing quietly, they slipped back out and closed the door. She was hoping that maybe just maybe she'd fall asleep on her own as they got into the hallway to head to their room. "Mm well you might have no choice if you have a three-year-old who is going to wake up randomly to play with her dolls in the middle of the night." she said. "Or we wait till all the kids are grown to ever 'play games' again." she quipped as he tugged his arm around her pulling her in and her legs wobbled again.

He laughed softly and shook his head as he pulled her in. The grin on his lips widened as he realized her legs wobbled again and he leaned in to kiss her cheek and untangle his arm from around her to take her hand instead. "Come, let's order some pizza," he murmured and lead her back into their bedroom where a few pieces of clothing were still scattered that he picked up to toss in the hamper and then found Sophie's phone on the bed. "What kind of pizza did you say they offered?"

"What, not willing to give up playing games with me?" she teased as he took her hand. "Well, they have this pizza called a Cobb pizza, the cheese is on the bottom and sauce on the top and it looks so good like the cheese makes the dough soft and pillowy. We can order another regular one but I'm definitely getting that." she said.

"Oh no, never giving up playing games with you," he said in full honestly and smirking at her slightly as he led them into the bedroom again. "You're making it sound really exciting," Alex chuckled and opened her phone to pick that out and find a regular pizza to add to their order too. Scrolling through, he settled on another one that sounded good. "Anything else I should add to the cart?" He asked, sitting on the edge of the bed where Sophie usually lay and glancing up from the phone in his hands.

"Well I’m glad to hear that." she said because she knew a lot of what today was, was about reassurance. "It looks so delicious and I love soft pillowy dough." she said crawling back into bed. "No we already had dessert apparently." she teased, "But if you want anything else just add it." she said. "I could go for a wonderful back massage though or even just cuddling."

"There's never too much dessert," he said and so when he saw you could order ice cream too, he added that to the cart before placing the order. "Between 30-50 minutes," he murmured as he tossed Sophie's phone on the other side of the bed and turned his back to the rest of the room, facing Sophie who was now crawling back into bed. "Is that your way of asking me for a massage?" He chuckled, but then reached out to her neck when his eyes fell on the bruised skin. "May have gotten a little carried away," he smirked slightly, brushing his fingertips over the mark he had left.

"Never huh? Do you mean dessert or /dessert/ because I believe there is a limit to some of that." she teased. "I mean if you're willing to give me a massage I won't say no." she hummed happily with a grin. "Make up for the embarrassment that we could have scarred our daughter for life." she said dramatically. Her hand came up to meet his fingertips brushing against her neck. "Oh god thank god she didn't ask."

"Never," he just said and wiggled his brows but leaving it at that. "I ordered ice cream." He shook his head amusedly but then his attention was on her neck for the moment. "Scarred her for life? She just heard you screaming, she has no idea what about. Plus, she seemed fully distracted by pizza anyway," Alex chuckled softly before shifting and nodding to her. "You have to turn around if you want me to massage you," he told her with a smile.

"Mm you can't fuck me all the time babe, that's physically impossible." she teased. "Oh, ice cream sounds delicious." she said when he said he ordered that. "I mean we could have scarred her for life what if she found a way to get out of her room and come in here," she said, "Or we hadn't heard her cry." she said which she knew she was being overdramatic right now Willa was fine and didn't have a clue what the screaming was for. She wouldn't even remember it. "Oh god when she says mommy and daddy play games that make mommy scream to one of our friends." she groaned as she turned over onto her stomach. "Don't get any ideas."

"Mmh, you're dessert if I get you off, nothing holding me back physically from that," he said with a wink but of course she was right about not constantly being able to do that. "She's perfectly fine though," Alex reminded her before suggesting she moved around. "Pretty sure they'll just all know what it means and they know we have sex anyway," he chuckled as he moved to kneel over her and start rubbing his hands over her back and then kneading into it slowly. "Don't worry, we have food coming. If I do get any more ideas, I'm not gonna want to be rushed."

“Oh, getting me off is dessert to you because you get to see me come or taste me come?” She asked knowing talking about sex was a dangerous game to play with the pair of them. “They’ll know we have loud sex with the kids around.” Which wasn’t really a big deal the kids should be sleeping. She sighed when he started kneading her back. “Mm but rushed can be so fun. Trying to get each other to reach that peak before something happens. You know one of these days I’m gonna get you to fuck me backstage before or right after a show.” She purred.

"A little bit of both, yes." Of course, the way he was kneeling over Sophie now was a reminder of what they had just gotten up to not too long ago, but he was also very aware Willa was just a few doors down the hall and playing. "Yes, yes it's very fun, but not with our daughter very much already thinking you got hurt," he reminded her with a smirk. "Maybe after the pizza and when she's back in bed, we can talk about any ideas you or I have," he teased slightly. "Mmh, too bad there's no more shows for the rest of the year," he chuckled softly.

“Ah so you like having it all don’t you.” She chuckled knowing that he was someone that loved pleasuring her. “Don’t worry I don’t mean now.” She rolled her eyes. “I’m not about to explain why mommy and daddy were playing again.” She said as he continued to massage her “oh you have ideas too?” She asked, “I’d like to hear those ideas.” She said honestly. “I know you and your band it won’t be long before another show pops up.”

"All of you? Oh yes, I like having you very much." He hummed softly as he kneaded into her back gently, finding tense spots here and there and trying to knead them out. "Of course I do," Alex chuckled softly. "Maybe after we've had food, I'll share some with you." Of course, she was right, you never knew how spontaneously they'd have new shows popping up. Though the plan was to be in London for Christmas and New Years after all."

“Well, you can have all of me for the rest of your life.” She said in a soft murmur. The tense spots she let out a soft moan making she her voice was soft not loud so Willa couldn’t hear. “You never share your ideas or wants with me or not a lot I want to know more of them.” She said honestly. “But I still am going to make either before or after a show someday happen. Maybe both.”

Alex smiled softly at that. He was happy with that thought and it didn't freak him out at all in that moment. He hummed softly and pressed his fingers a little harder into her back. "Right now, I'm thinking full body massage," he told her with a smirk. "No clothes allowed, maybe some massage oil involved, but definitely picturing you returning the favour." He winked at her for her to see when she glanced back at him.

“A full body massage with no clothes involved? And massage oil? Sounds like your hands might slip into places they shouldn’t accidentally.” She murmured as she closed her eyes. “As if I wouldn’t return the favor have you ever been left feeling disappointed or let down?” She quipped when he winked at her.

"Mh, they might. It'd be a full body massage after all," he murmured with a soft chuckle. "Oh no, I know you would. I'm just saying, I'd like your hands on me too," he smirked. He continued to massage her for a while until eventually the food was delivered and they got out of bed to get the food. Willa, who Alex assumed would be sleepy enough to have fallen back asleep while playing, was actually still awake and she squealed when she heard the door open and smelled the pizza. "Shh, your brother and sister are sleeping. This is a secret, okay? Come, have some pizza," Alex whispered to her as he picked her up to bring her downstairs where they sat on the couch, since it was more comfortable, and dug into the pizza. Willa actually ended up falling asleep with a piece of pizza still in her hand and  Alex laughed softly and smiled at the image. "She tried so hard to be awake for pizza, and she only managed a few bites."

“I want to know more of your ideas to get my hands on you.” She said when the pizza arrived as she slipped off the bed and the little toddler came sprinting out of her room. “Shhh.” She said as she watched Alex tell her it was a secret and they were going to go downstairs. “We don’t want to wake up your brother and sister and the puppy.” She said since she was asleep curled up in the crate just outside of Willa’s room. “I’m surprised she didn’t try and let her out.” She said honestly. When they ate, she dug into the Cobb pizza and it was delicious and she groaned happily. “So good here try.” She gave Willa a bite who wiggled and made the same “mmm” noise Sophie made before giving Alex a bite. “So chewy and fluffy and ugh good.” After a very short time Willa was asleep pizza in hand. “She’s a riot you know.” She smiled. “I know she’s absolutely our wild child, but I wouldn’t change that for the world.” She said stroking her hair. “Want to put her to bed we can pull out the couch bed and watch a movie and eat ice cream

"We do a lot of the things I like, babe," he reminded her with a chuckle. When the food arrived, they headed downstairs with Willa, making sure she was quiet not to wake anyone else up and Alex thought she seemed excited about this being a secret she could keep. "Maybe she tried letting her out but failed," he chuckled softly and glanced at their daughter who was happy taking a few small bites of pizza. She did the exact same happy food dance Sophie did and it was adorable to watch. "It is really good," he confirmed after trying a bite. It was well after bedtime so Alex wasn't surprised Willa passed out quickly and he chuckled. "Yeah, I'll try to clean her up and then put her to bed. Hopefully she'll sleep through the night now." He picked the little girl up with ease and gently took the pizza from her hands. "Can you pull out the couch while I bring her upstairs? You can pick a movie or we pick one together." He took Willa upstairs and cleaned her face before putting her back in her bed, staying a moment to make sure she was fast asleep before he returned downstairs again. "She's so tired, I don't know how she stayed up for so long."

While Alex was gone cleaning up Willa and putting her back to bed Sophie cleaned up the living room and moved the furniture to pull out the luxury couch bed and put comfy sheets and pillows on it from the closet before a blanket and hopping into bed and grabbing the remote. She flipped through before seeing the hunger games movie and setting it up and shifting to get comfortable now that the food was to the side. When Alex finally returned, she chuckled. “She’s a strong-willed little girl.” She said. “Now back to those things we were talking about. I know we do a lot of the things you like but I mean what do you want to like /do/ like fantasy.” She said as she shifted to prop herself up. “Like I said I want to fuck you right before or literally right after you do a show. You want to give me a full body massage with oil what else?” She was curious. “I mean I have more things, but I don’t want to just say them all.” She said before shifting. “I’m thinking hunger games for the movie. Jen is my girl and I miss her and I’m totally still drooling over Peeta.”

He was barely getting back into the living room when Sophie was eager to pick their conversation back up and he chuckled softly. "Where's the sudden curiosity coming from?" he asked as he moved to get comfortable on the couch/bed with her. "I want you to say them all," he said simply. "If you've got things on your mind right now, please tell me." He glanced at the tv and chuckled as he shook his head. "So, I'm gonna have to sit through a movie where you're just gushing over one of the characters the whole time?" He teased.

“I don’t know I guess in bed afterwards just got me thinking.” She said casually. “But you know what they say curiosity killed the cat.” She chuckled. “I have thoughts, ideas, fantasies yeah.” She laughed. “Maybe it’ll be more fun to show you when time proves the right time.” She said with a smile. “I never said I would gush over him the whole time I just and team Peeta over team Gale.” She said. “Which is the obvious choice anyway besides being team Katniss. Oh, and team Finnick. Oh Sam, I haven’t seen him in ages.” She cooed before she grabbed the remote and pressed start.

He chuckled softly as he shifted to get more comfortable, sprawling out on the couch a bit. "Oh, I think it's great sometimes to just go with it," he agreed with a nod. "I do that to you and I don't know if you even realize?" He smirked slightly as he glanced over at her. "Remember that one time you were blowing me and I had you sit on my face? Mmh, I really wanted to try that." He loved how Sophie could get so passionate about things like characters in a movie and he watched and listened to her with an amused smile on his face. Just about two seconds into the movie though, he almost jumped to sit up and reach over. "We can't forget the ice cream or it'll melt!" He announced, grabbing the container and the two spoons he'd gotten from the kitchen earlier.

“It’s if those opportunities arise but some things I don’t like to just spring on people, or well no people but you.” She said. “Like car sex I’d like to do that again but not in the front seat.” She said honestly. “I do remember that I was nervous about that one that didn’t seem like a good idea.” Though she had been fully wrong she had never seen Alex so happy. When he jumped up, she sat up fast. “Jesus, can you not jump like that I thought something was wrong.” She said holding her chest. “We’re watching the hunger games where things get intense not a Disney movie”.

"You wanna go in the backseat? And I'm guessing we're not talking van, but actually car, mh?" He questioned, shifting a little to turn towards her more. "We're not talking the car being parked out here either, right?" A grin spread on his lips at the memory. "Oh, you were very hesitant. Did you think you were gonna suffocate me? Really, nothing to have been worried about," he teased slightly. "We could do that again some time," Alex murmured as they settled to start the movie, only for him to jump at remembering the ice cream. "Things are gonna be wrong if we just let the ice cream melt," he told her once he'd grabbed the container and held a spoon out for Sophie and then settled back down with her and held the ice cream out for her to eat some of it.

“I don’t mean the RV no, I mean in the car but like heat of the moment. Like we’ve been teasing each other and then we just have to pull over and feel each other that rush of needing each other so badly.” She murmured. “And no not parked here.” She said chuckling. “Oh, outside sex definitely want more outside sex.” She took the spoon and dug into the ice cream and took a bite and hummed. “I don’t know some of them are really simple some of them aren’t.” She shrugged not really getting into it. “Mm this is delicious what kind is it.” Trying to see the container of ice cream.

He thought about that for a moment and then grinned slightly. "I think I should take you on a date some time," he said, more like thinking out loud and idea forming in his head. "It's winter," Alex reminded her when she said she wanted more outside sex. "It's freezing out there. So, unless you wanna go in the hot tub, outside sex is gonna have to wait until chances of ending up with frozen limbs are lower." When Sophie dug into the ice cream, he grinned at how excited she was about it. "Butter Pecan," he said as he too, took a spoonful of it.

“And no by the way I didn’t think you would actually suffocate.” Not forgetting his other question. “I just it seems weird to sit on someone like that.” Not that she hadn’t enjoyed it and would do it again but until then wasn’t something she had experienced. “Okay so outside sex can wait till later, but you know hot tub sex has always been hot too.” She chuckled. “I sometimes think that I have too many… ideas.” She admitted with a blush as she took a few more bites.

"Sex in the hot tub is pretty much outside sex though," he told her with a smirk. Though his look softened at her expression of why she was worried and he shook his head. "Oh no, there's no such thing as too many ideas, babe. I told you I want to know them all, so don't think it's too much." He reached out to put his hand on her leg over the blanket and give it a gentle squeeze. "I like exploring all the ideas with you."

“Yeah but I mean different outdoor sex and you know that.” She chuckled. “I mean it’s not like we can try every idea that pops into my head we’d never stop having sex.” She teased as she took some more of the ice cream savoring in it. “Plus some might just be.. weird.” We’re they actually weird probably not but she always went from overtly open to more shy.

"We could try," he said with a shrug and then chuckled softly but stopped when she said some might be weird. "Yeah, I don't really think that's gonna be it though. I don't think any are gonna be weird. They're all valid and if there's some things we won't do that wouldn't even make things weird anyway." Though he was pretty open to at least trying everything once. He glanced up, chuckling softly when he realized they weren't even really watching the movie that was playing.

There was a laugh, “we have three kids and four dogs, sex all the time is not an option for us anymore.” She teased. “That was a pre-Willa and being pregnant days.” She laughed as she settled back against the bed. “I don’t know maybe someday I’ll tell you more of them for now I think you know enough of my dark desires.” She said as she shifted into him. “Think we should just sleep down here tonight.”

Alex chuckled softly as she shifted into him a little bit and he moved just enough to be able to put the half-eaten container of ice cream aside. "Dark desires? I think it's just desires baby, nothing dark about them," he smirked slightly and shifted, more onto his side so he could pull her in closer. "We have to clean up the leftover foods but then yeah, we can sleep down here," he agreed. "Much easier, much closer, no more walking the stairs. Though I guess we need to check on the puppy, don't want her waking and fussing and ending up peeing in her crate," he hummed, not really eager to get up right in that moment though.

“Mm haven’t told you all of them.” She teased but really, they weren’t dark or weird she just didn’t want to expand any further after that. “We do need to check on the puppy and probably let her out so her little bladder doesn’t hurt.” She said. “How about I’ll clean up the food and put it away and you take Sansa out quick and then we will curl up for the rest of our movie.”

He chuckled softly but instead of arguing with her, he just leaned in to capture her lips in a kiss. It sounded like a solid plan, plus he was determined to check on their kids too while he was upstairs to make sure they were all actually sleeping in their beds, no more nightly play time. "Mmh, alright," he agreed, shifting to roll over, or mostly onto her before pushing himself up and then getting up of the couch turned into bed and headed up the stairs. The kids were all tucked in their beds and sleeping peacefully and when Alex opened the crate, little Sansa wagged her tail and got up sleepily to greet him. She was already doing so good with going outside for potty time and only rarely had accidents inside the house now. "Are you sleepy?" he chuckled softly and decided to pick her up to carry her downstairs. He called for the other three dogs softly once he was downstairs and soon, they were all roaming around in the backyard before coming back inside. When Sansa was back to sleeping in her crate, Alex returned to the living room.

She smiled into the kiss when he captured her lips. So he rolled over her before off the bed and headed upstairs and she was sure he was going to check on the kids and make sure everything was safe and sound as she got all the food, utensils, and scraps picked up and brought to the kitchen where she wrapped up what she could and put leftovers in the fridge and then put the ice cream in the freezer before quickly rinsing the spoons and putting them into the dishwasher. She was just finishing up with everything and wiping down the counters as she heard them come back in and a very sleep Sansa came padding in. "Such a good girl." she cooed petting her head before Alex got her to follow him and she headed back to the bed that was made up and crawled in and laid there waiting for Alex to join her.

The other dogs easily found their favorite spots to sleep though Alex was sure they'd easier take their chance to sleep in their bed when they figured out Sophie and him were downstairs, or they'd come sleep on the couch with them. Sansa though, she was still in her crate and while Alex felt that eventually they'd just drop that and let her sleep where she wanted, right now she was still young and had to learn boundaries. When everyone was settled, Alex wandered back into the living room and smiled when he saw Sophie already curled up on the couch bed. He climbed in to slip under the blanket with her and shifted so she could curl up to him. "Kids are all sleeping, none of them is playing and Sansa is already fast asleep again," he chuckled softly.

She couldn't wait till all of the dogs could cuddle up together but with three little ones, and a puppy having her in the crate was the safest for everyone, including Sansa. Once he returned, she curled up into his body and snuggled into him easily and laid her head on his shoulder. "Sansa is such a good puppy, I know she has her moments sometimes where she doesn't want to go to bed at first." she was a puppy after all, she was still learning but she was so good. "I can't believe Willa got up and decided just to play in the middle of the night for them."

"For being a puppy, she's already really gentle," Alex said with a small nod as he let Sophie curl into him, his arm wrapped around her. He leaned back comfortably and glanced at the tv for a moment before a soft laugh left his lips. "It's like she can never find enough time to play in the day," he said. Though she had taken a long nap in the afternoon because she was exhausted from playing so much in the park. "Let's hope she doesn't start doing this on a regular basis."

"She is but wait till she's a bit older she's gonna be rambunctious." she chuckled. "And might knock the kids over a few times, but on accident." Which she was a bigger dog she didn't understand. "I mean that's their job babe, to play." she laughed, "But I am worried if this becomes a regular thing with her waking up in the middle of the night or anything like that." she said.

"I know it's gonna happen, but she's still gentle. Knows she has to be more gentle with Willa then when she tries to play with me," Alex said. When Sophie said she was worried about this becoming a regular thing, Alex couldn't help but grin widely. "Why, because you're worried she'd hear you screaming again?" He teased and then laughed. "I know, I know though, it's not good if she just wakes up in the middle of the night. She needs to sleep."

"Oh, shut up." she laughed when he said if she was worried about hearing her scream again. "Or no more sexy times for you." she teased pushing her finger into his chest giving it a tiny jab. "She does need to sleep and if she's not staying in bed.. I don't know how to keep a three-year-old in her bed." she admitted.

[Sophie | Alex]

Things had felt complicated over the last few days. Comments Alex had made on stage about people taking him home or who wanted to take him home and kiss him good night. It wasn’t something he normally did in his set like that. At first she had loved finally having Avril to sing part of the song she had played a part in but now she was seeing him post all these photos together where they seemed almost cuddled or close and people were commenting, then they were being touchy on stage particularly Alex. The crowd was insanity and her anxiety was in her throat with how many people were there and when she saw Avril come out and how Alex was immediately drawn in and his arm was around her shoulders pulling her in. Swallowing she felt it, this is what people talked about, Alex would grow bored. Like he had with Lisa. Her throat felt tight and she felt a mix of anger, jealousy, tears. She turned to one of the crew she had known for years and they asked if she was okay and she pulled away. “I need to go.” She said shaking her head and made her way away from the stage. She got to the trailer ducking her head and inside where she asked Annie to take the babies to the boys’ trailer and she agreed and she moved to curl up on the bed and turned on Evermore and tucked into herself.

Alex had always loved being out on stage and there was something special about playing to a crowd of people who had listened to them for so many years and sharing the stage with so many artists he had listened to when he was younger. He was buzzing. Teddy Swims came out to sing New Religion with them and then Avril showed up for Fake As Hell, and they ended up singing Sk8ter Boy too. After that, Alex couldn't spot Sophie side stage where she had been before, but he didn't really think much of it. One of the crew told him she was off to the backstage area mid set and that had him frowning a bit. After their set, he headed back there without really stopping to chat with the boys and slipped onto the bus he had spent so much time on with Sophie and the kids. "Soph? Babe?" he called, walking in further and starting towards the back of the bus to find Sophie curled up. "Hi, you left early?"

The music played softly through the tour bus due the stereo system, Taylor was always the one who had an album for every mood. So when the door open she didn’t hear it since the music was loud enough but it played the soft sad music. When she finally heard his voice, he was at the back of the bed and she didn’t know why but she turned her body to face more of her back towards him. “You should be out having fun.” She said a slight tone to it that you couldn’t put your finger on. She shifted again this time very obvious she wasn’t trying to see Alex. “Go see and have all your fun with everyone, when you come back Annie me and the babies will go and stay in a hotel till we can get back to Baltimore.”

Alex didn't really acknowledge the music that was playing. It was soft and almost sad, but he was oblivious. "Huh?" he asked when she told him to just have fun and he shook his head. "But I wanna have fun with you," he said, sounding fully confused. "Wait, what? You and the kids are leaving? Why?" He furrowed his brows. "I thought we were gonna hang here and then go home together.."

There was a snort of an obnoxious laugh when he said he wanted to have fun with her. Like she didn’t believe him now, her mind telling her he was bored of her and he was telling her what she wanted to hear. “I think it’d be for the best.” She said shifting to slide her legs down and going for the one closet and grabbing her one suitcase and opening it on the bed. “Then you and whoever you want to bring to bed can have as much fun as you want. Or maybe you prefer Avril’s bus if you’re not down for one of your groupies.” She said the bitterness tasting like bile in her throat as she roughly shoved clothes into it.

Alex just stood there, very much stunned for a moment before he took the few steps closer and started pulling the clothes she was throwing in the suitcase out again. "Excuse me?" he said, almost staring at her in confusion. "What are you talking about? You're literally the only one I wanna bring to bed. I sure as hell don't want you and the kids leaving either."

Each time he started pulling clothes out she grabbed them back and pushed them in a little rougher which was impressive for such a tiny girl in size. “Right.” She scoffed. “That’s why you’re asking fans to take you home and you’re all over Avril.” She gave an almost sadistic laugh. “So you two and whoever can have fun and we’ll go back to Baltimore while you finish up your tour or we’ll go to England and figure things out afterwards.” She said shoving in another outfit her hands shaking. “This is what those lyrics meant isn’t it? The Way You Miss Me?” She asked. “You always knew, you were saying it the whole time we’d get here, that it’d never change.” She swallowed. “You’d grow bored with me just like you grew bored with Lisa. Do me a favor just don’t take it out on our kids okay?” She said before turning back to her packing as tears started falling down her cheeks slowly.

"What are you talking about?" he asked, clearly confused where this was coming from now. So he had made a joke on stage, but that was it. A joke. Did she really take that so seriously? "I'm not all over Avril, what do you mean?" He grabbed a whole bunch of clothes this time to take out of the suitcase and toss further away on the bed. "Will you stop packing - I don't want you to go!" Alex sighed as he reached for her hand and tried tugging her away from her suitcase, far from rough and with just enough force but not too tight of a grip, and he let go immediately when he felt the littlest bit of restraint. "That song isn't about you. It really isn't about me either, I was just putting someone else's feelings and situations into a song. I'm not bored with you," he said firmly. "Right now, I'm really just confused," he said with his brows furrowed slightly. "Soph, I don't want you to go. I don't want you to take the kids to a hotel and I really don't want you to randomly go back to England without me."

He grabbed the clothes and tossed them further onto the bed which just made her groan because at this rate she was going to be here for hours doing this and it was hard enough. “You’re touchy with her you’re taking all these pictures and yes you are all over her on stage pulling her into you and then singing. I get it she’s Avril Lavigne she’s much older than me and been around longer and whatever,” she said. He tugged her and she stumbled as he got her away from the suitcase. “Oh please everyone said that song is Alex coded that if they could pick a song that is you it’s that one.” She shook her head. “And I was just dumb enough to believe it was all bullshit from the past. But if you’re bored you owed it to me instead of making jokes about other people going home with you or flirting with Avril. You want out I’ll give you that, Christ, Alex I would never make you unhappy.” She shook her head, “and I knew there was a chance you’ve always been a sceptic.” Tears slipped faster down her cheeks. “I can see it you haven’t been the same with me since Avril came around and I guess that’s okay.” Wiping her eyes “stuff happens and if you need time I rather you just be honest with yourself and I’ll give you space.”

"I'm not touchy with her. Yes we take pictures and it's a blast to have her singing with us, but she's a good friend and that's all there is. I'm not interested in anything else with her, or anyone else than you." So once upon a time that whole theme of the song fit into his lifestyle, but he had thought over the last few years he'd proven those days were over. "I wasn't flirting with her. Or the crowd, Soph I made a joke, I didn't realise that sits so badly with you," he said with a soft sigh. "I am /not/ bored with you or any part of our relationship, or family." He looked at her in almost disbelief. "I never said nor felt like I needed time and if I did, I'd talk to you. But I don't. And I don't know what you see because all that has been off the last couple days was either miscommunication or you not telling me why you're mad at me. But I'm not bored with you or want to flirt or be with anyone else."

Sophie was so tired it had felt like an internal battle these last few days and part of her still didn’t know if she believed it as she closed her eyes and leaned against the wall and felt hot tears slip down her cheeks and she slid down the wall burying her face into her hands feeling so much weight lift off her finally being honest with him because she had felt so disconnected from her partner.

"Sophie," he said, his voice softer now and he stepped towards her when she slid down the wall until she was sitting on the floor and he crouched down in front of her. "Baby," he said, almost a question as he swallowed and then sat down beside her and he wasn't really sure what to do but rather just wrapped his arm around her to tug her into his side, her head leaning on his shoulder and his other arm wrapping around her too. "I really don't want anyone but you," he said after a long moment of silence and pressed a kiss to her head.

Tears flowed from the pent stress that was in her body. She felt his body move down to crouch in front of her and then he was next to her. “I just you’ve never made those jokes before.” She said wiping her eyes. “And then Avril showed up and everything got all crazy and you were so busy and people talk.” Which was true. “And suddenly I felt like I couldn’t breathe and like I finally was going to lose everything I’ve had with you.”

"I wasn't really thinking about what I was saying. I was just trying to be funny, it was a joke. I didn't know it'd get to you like that," he said with a soft sigh. "People talk all the time but you've gotta trust me. There's nothing but friendship between Avril and me. I just want you, I don't want anyone else no matter how famous they are or how long I've known them." His hand moved to brush a few tears off her cheek. "I'm not going anywhere, and I rather you don't either," he said softly and then used his hand to lift her face a little so she would look at him. "I love you, Soph. And I really, really mean that. I'm not bored with you."

“I don’t know I didn’t think it would until it did.” She had been stable in their relationship for several years now, this was the first time of issues with trust and jealousy since the first year of their relationship. Which was probably pretty good but it had gotten to her. He lifted her face after brushing the still falling tears from her face and took a deep breath trying to calm herself. Nodding when he said he really meant it and he wasn’t bored with her. “I love you too.” She murmured. “I … I’m sorry.” She said softly “I just didn’t know how to talk about what I was feeling it happened so fast.”

"I didn't actually want anyone but you to bring me home, I promise you." If there was anything he was sure about it was this, he really had no interest in being with anyone but her. And he didn't realize his words would make Sophie doubt what they have or have her get jealous. When she said she just didn't know how to talk about what she was feeling, he wanted to tell her she didn't have to ever worry about talking to him, but of course he understood that feeling too. He often tended to keep things to himself rather than talk about them, so who was he to give advice? "I just want you to realize I only want you. I want you to come home with me, I want you to tuck me into bed, I want you to be the one I can have late night conversations with, or go on stupid adventures with," he said softly. "I really want to have fun with you, not anyone else," he offered a small smile to pick the beginning of their conversation up in a way.

A sniffle left her when he said he hadn't meant any of it, that it really had been just a joke. She was someone that was secure in her relationship but she wasn't sure why it was suddenly feeling rocky. Even though it wasn't. Maybe because it was going to be four years of them together and that's when her ex had finally left her, and she feared that happening, a single mother and him out there having his fun and her being the one who had probably done something wrong. "I don't know why I get so upset about it." she said it even went beyond jealousy. It had been a true upsetting fear. A small smile formed on her face. "I know... I'm sorry if I'm being so crazy. I'm due for my period and I must just be hormonal." she swallowed trying to make excuses for things that were perfectly normal.

"It's okay, don't apologize. I just wish you weren't feeling that way," he murmured softly and tugged her in a little more. It was almost funny to see Sophie worried all of a sudden, so fearful of him up and leaving when he felt so far from it. He'd always had this deep, unsettling urge to be on the go and while he still had that for when it came to touring and all that, he didn't have that about his relationship anymore. He was sure he wanted Sophie, he wanted her by his side wherever his future ended up being and he never felt more sure about anything. "I suppose I can't get you to come and celebrate with me?" He asked after a while, a soft, teasing smile on his lips as he glanced at her. "It's okay if you don't, but I meant it when I said I wanted to have fun /with/ you."

He tugged her into him a little more and she slid herself into his lap and straddled him to press her body as close to him as humanly possible. She knew that he was confident feeling because he seemed so settled, not nervous in his words. It was like he had all this confidence and finally didn't have that fear and here she was ready to run at the fear she was creating. She sniffled, "Oh god I don't want anyone to see me like this." she murmured.

He smiled when she slid into his lap. Of course, the floor wasn't the most comfortable place to sit, but he was genuinely happy just having her around and so close to him. When she sniffled, he reached to cup her face and brush her cheeks again. "See you like what? Nobody's gonna know you cried," he murmured, leaning in to kiss each of her cheeks. "Do you want to stay in?" he asked after a moment, his voice soft and genuine, because he'd never expect her to go out if she didn't feel like it.

"Oh god yes they will my eyes probably look swollen and my makeup probably is a mess." she murmured but she also didn't want him to miss out on celebrating with his friends. "I don't want you to miss out this is a huge weekend with you. How about you go and I'll take some time and see if I can make myself look presentable and I'll join you if I can."

"Your make up is not a mess," he chuckled softly and leaned back against the wall a little bit. "Mh, I'd rather you came with me right away. We can just tell people we were fooling around and that got your make up a little smudged," he joked. "Alright, if you don't mind me going back out there, then I will go and hope for you to join me in a bit, yes?"

"I mean they would totally believe we were fooling around but Annie wouldn't." she pointed out and she didn't need Annie saying something to Zack. "I want you to have fun babe this is a huge thing for you." she said and she knew that.

Alex let out a soft breath and then nodded. "Okay," he said softly, dropping his hands to her arms and rubbing up and down for a moment. "I do want you there, have fun with you though," he reminded her before they started scrambling up off the floor and Alex stretched a little bit. "Promise me you'll come? I'll come looking for you if you don't," he said with a smile.

"No sighing." she said, "Tonight is supposed to be fun and epic and all that stuff." She knew this was like a huge deal for everything. "I'll come just give me a little time to get re-situated with everything." she said. Which really meant she wanted to wash her face, and redo her makeup, maybe change her outfit into something she'd feel a bit more confident in. "Go." she said pecking his lips. "I'll be out in a bit."

"I know. And I'm dying to see some of the bands. Mark said we could come side stage when Blink 182 is playing," he told her, the excitement about that obviously showing. He kissed her back when she pecked his lips and then chuckled softly. "Alright, okay, yes I'm going. I could wait for you though," he offered before she started ushering him out and he did go but not before giving her another kiss. He considered where to go for a moment, but then wandered over to the other bus to check on Annie and the kids, caught Zack lingering around for a bit too and then him and Jack were off towards the VIP area of the festival grounds to see the other bands that were playing.

A smile tugged to her face to see how excited he was so she'd never take that away from him to stay in. It took a little bit she changed into a LV bubble skirt and then a tank top to grunge it up a bit and then some thigh high black heels. She fixed her hair into waves before doing her makeup to something simple and feminine before she headed out and security escorted her to where Alex now was. It took a few minutes before she found them with security before thanking them, a few fans yelling when they saw her too which did make her feel like she still was relevant and more than a mom. "Hey." she said softly.

Of course Alex couldn't immediately wash away the moment they just had, but it was easier once he was back with the boys and listening to more music on the grounds. The VIP section was a little to the side and it wasn't as crowded as the rest of the area, but there were still a lot of people and Alex kept glancing around to see Sophie. When she did show up, he smiled warmly at her. "Hi," he said, sliding his arm around her to guide her so she'd stand in front of him and he could wrap his arms around her and look over her shoulder. "I'm glad you made it out here," he said in her ear.

When she finally got there she was glad she decided to join him. He truly did seem happy to have her there and that was all she wanted. They were a little further over to the side and it wasn't crowded, thankfully. The general crowd was terrifying if she really thought about it. He guided her in front of him and wrapped his arms around her tightly. "I am too." she said looking back and smiling before sway dancing to the music. "Having fun?" she asked because that was all she really wanted for him. To have all the fun in a thing he worked so hard for.

Alex was really glad Sophie came out to listen to the music with them, to celebrate and have a good time. Once he had his arms around her, they were able to just enjoy together and Alex couldn't wipe the happy smile off his face when Sophie started sway dancing to the music and he happily moved along with her. "Very much, yes," he chuckled. "How about you? Do you want me to get us something to drink?" He asked and Jack's ears perked up at that and he nodded. "Oh yes, drinks!" causing Alex to laugh.

She could feel herself relax now with Alex now that she had told him what was bothering her. Sophie was so glad he was happy and having fun. She knew this was something he had been planning for, for a while and getting to be surrounded by people he was friends with, people he was fans of, she was sure he was living a dream right then. "A drink sounds so good, cranberry vodka, please." she said because that would hit just the spot.

"How about you go get the drinks then," Alex told Jack with a smirk who looked at him fully unamused. "One cranberry vodka it is," Alex said with a chuckle and kissed the side of Sophie's face before pulling back. "I will be right back," he told her and gave Jack a look to make sure he knew to keep an eye on Sophie while he was off to get the three of them drinks. It took a moment because it was crowded but eventually he returned to hand both Sophie and Jack their drinks and then take a sip of his own. "So, are you having a good time too?" He asked Sophie, his free arm sneaking around her again as he resumed standing behind her.

Sophie continued to dance while Alex was gone. Though she knew she could have gone with him she knew it was more him trying to protect her from the massive crowd that was around them. When he returned she took a sip from her straw and sighed happily. "I'm having a better time now that you're back." she playfully teased as she continued to sway her hips to the beat as his arm snuck around her midsection.

Jack was hopping around and only stopped when Alex handed him his drink. It was fascinating he managed to move to the music without spilling his drink anywhere, but Alex wasn't really paying much attention to that either. "Is that so?" He asked Sophie with a grin before taking another sip of his own drink. "Are you gonna come side stage with us?" He knew it was gonna be time to head back there soon, find Mark and security that would lead them there, but he was giddy and excited because even though they had been friends for years now and Mark and him even had that little side project once upon a time, he was still a big fan of the band and getting to be on the side of the stage while they performed had him very excited.

"It's always better with you." she laughed shaking her head. "If you want me to, I can stay in the VIP section if not but I know enough that I am not going to go anywhere near the normal crowd." she said because that absolutely was not going to happen. Obviously it was a special moment for Alex and she didn't want her being there to be overshadowing, like it or not, her name was known and that wasn't going to change.

"Nobody expects you to go near the normal crowd," Alex laughed softly. "Yes I want you to. It's gonna be great. We have to go find Mark soon." They did linger for a while, dancing, chatting and drinking until it was time to slip away and get to where they were able to watch Blink 182 perform. By the time the music eventually subsided, it was late and Alex felt a little buzzed from the drinks and the adrenaline from watching all these bands perform. "Oh that was fun!" Jack said loudly as they made their way back to their busses. "Did Annie take the kids back to our bus or do we need to get them still?"

The night ended up being a lot of fun, listening to the bands, being side stage for Blink-182, dancing along with Alex to the beat of the music. They drank several more drinks before they started to make their way back, her body tangled in his as much as they could as they walked. "She probably brought them back to the bus to get them all into bed by now." Given it was late she imagined that the kids would be fast asleep.

"They could be sleeping in the bunk beds," he mused though it was a lot more likely Annie had put them to bed on their bus. Which she did and so they tried to be as quiet as possible getting back on there too. Annie was passed out on the little couch and the kids were sleeping peacefully, which caused Alex to smile. "Should we ask Zack to come get her?

"I don't think they're in the bunk beds, babe, they're still too little to stay content like that." she chuckled. "Yeah that'd be easiest he'd carry her a lot easier than you'd carry her and that might be weird if she wakes up to you carrying her." she said honestly so she let him get Zack to come get her while she headed off to wash off her makeup and into pyjamas for the night.

Alex was off to find Zack, who followed him on their bus without any complaints to pick up Annie and get her over to the other bus to sleep with him rather than on the couch. By the time Alex was closing the door, Sophie was already changed into pyjamas for the night and he smiled as he walked to the back of the bus. He got washed up a bit and then changed before crawling into bed with Sophie. "Oh that was a fun, fun night," he chuckled as he settled into the bed.

She had slipped into her pyjamas and then crawled into bed as Alex joined her not long after. Once he settled in she smiled. “I’m glad that it was fun. It was a good night I mean.. it could have been far worse” given how it had started when he found her. “I’m really sorry I was so emotional and didn’t talk to you about how I was feeling.” She said turning onto her side.

Alex settled and felt Sophie shift beside him a little bit until they could curl up. "I just want you to know you can talk to me," he murmured softly. "Easier to take your fears and toss 'em out the window when I know what they are.." he offered a smile and then shifted a little to get more comfortable.

“I know I can.” She said, “I just don’t know why I felt I couldn’t… maybe because we’re going to hit four years together and that’s when my ex left when we were supposedly so happy together.” She murmured and it just felt like she was terrified to have history repeat itself. She shifted closer to him. “But I think it’s just hormones I’ve been secure for so long it just came out of nowhere.”

"I hope it's just hormones," Alex murmured, draping his arm over her to tug her in a little more. "Because I'm not going anywhere," he mumbled tiredly. "You're stuck with me."

“Probably. I’m due to start mine soon so probably just major PMSing.” She said with a small shrug. “I don’t mind being stuck with you. I wouldn’t have said yes to marrying you if that wasn’t the master plan all along.” She said snuggling into him.

Alex hummed softly when he felt her snuggling into him more and a smile spread on his lips at that. He brought his hand up to cup her cheek and turn her head enough so he could kiss her lips momentarily. "Just wanted you to know," he chuckled softly and then dropped his hand and settled in, closing his eyes. "We got a long day tomorrow, think we should sleep."

She let him pull her face up and kiss her before settling back. “You don’t have to tell me twice.” Yawning as she shifted and made herself comfortable on the bed not as curled up into him since she knew he got warm and she tended to move in her sleep. “Get some sleep babe” another yawn before she was half curling onto her belly and her eyes blinked closed to sleep.

"G'night," Alex murmured before he shifted a little more and then settled comfortably. They both settled in easily and drifted off to sleep soon and Alex only woke in the morning when the kids started to wake. He lingered with them for as long as he could before he had to get ready for the day and it was another day packed with festival stuff, interviews, watching sets and running into other artists. It was a hell of a lot of fun and he felt almost bummed when the festival was over, but he also knew that would give them some family time in LA before the Australian leg of the tour. They were just settling into the rented place just outside of LA and the kids loved every chance they got of going to the beach, which left him making a mental note to take them more often while they were in Baltimore. It was a longer drive of course, but still a place to go. "Babe are you ready to go?" Alex called when the kids were just settled with Annie and it was time to head out to do the puppy interview they had agreed to do a little while ago. "Rian has called me twice, I think I may have gotten the times wrong and we should really be on the way."

They were settling into a rented home in Los Angeles. Given that they were going to be there for a few weeks while time in between for themselves and then while Alex was in Australia. They knew it'd be easier than getting all the kids settled for that long haul of a flight though she would have loved to go to Australia she really knew with Willa, Noah, and Delphine this was for the best. They were already spending time out at the beach and just being a regular family and it was blissful. Today was the interview though so Annie had taken the kids to the beach area with a friend from town to help with the three babies while Sophie got ready. "How did you manage to mix up the times?" she called downstairs as her stylist did her hair and makeup before now rushing to get her into the full Louis Vuitton outfit and started clipping jewellery around her wrist, slipping rings onto her fingers, and grabbed her engagement ring to place back on from washing earlier. Sliding on the calf high brown boots she headed downstairs. "Okay we're ready, we're ready."

Alex rubbed the back of his neck and scrunched up his nose a bit. "I don't know. I thought I had the right time down but it looks like it's more like an hour or so earlier than I thought," he tried to explain. When Sophie headed downstairs, he looked up and smiled. "You look gorgeous. Let's go, yes?" he nodded quickly as his phone started ringing again and he picked up this time. "We're on our way, we'll be right there, okay? Yes, Rian I know... I know. We're on our way," he said again as he ushered Sophie outside and they were on the way finally. "Sorry," Alex murmured when they were in the car.

Shaking her head, this was how Alex ended up late. "I'm buying you a proper planner for Christmas." she called down the stairs. "I feel like that is a ‘you look gorgeous’ just to get me in the car." she quipped as she grabbed her bag and headed out as he answered his phone. Once they were in the car and on their way, "Nothing to be sorry for people make mistakes, it's not like you did it on purpose. We'll still make it and get to play with adorable puppies. I don't know if a skirt was the best option sitting on the floor but we packed a pair of pants that goes with this as well just in case.

"I'm not gonna be using that," he called back. They ushered out and into the car. "Well yes we'll make it but I think we may end up late," he chuckled softly and shook his head. "Maybe you should change into the pants," he said glancing over to see the skirt, reaching over to rest his hand on her thigh. "Don't want anyone catching a glimpse," he grinned slightly. "Are you excited for the puppies?"

"We'll be just a bit late, it's okay we can blame me." she said she didn't really mind. She was sure they wouldn't be bothered if they said it was Sophie who had been running behind. His hand rested on her thigh and she chuckled. "Well I was planning on keeping my legs crossed one over the other on the floor so no one would see but puppies running around and me only caring about them there's a chance someone may see my underwear." Which Alex knew was always on the sexier side. "So I'll change into those when we get there." she said. "Of course I am, who doesn't love getting to play with cute little puppies?"

"It's alright, everyone knows I'm the reason we're late," he chuckled softly, squeezing her thigh lightly. "Good, don't want anyone seeing your underwear," he murmured. The drive wasn't too long thankfully, and Rian was outside waiting for them, ready to lead them inside and where they needed to go. "We're here, we're here," Alex said as the met the rest of the boys. "Sophie just needs to change, then we're ready to go. Sorry we're late."

"I'm just saying no one will care if you say it was my fault." she shrugged, and she wasn't really worried about it. Once they arrived, they ushered in and he said Sophie needed to change. "Wait you're late and not even ready?" Rian scoffed, "I'm ready he just rather me not be in a skirt." she said rolling her eyes as she dug out her pants and different heels. It'll take me two seconds."

"We're gonna be sitting on the ground, there's videos and pictures, no I don't want her wearing a skirt," Alex argued with a shrug. They got settled while Sophie got changed and were explained how things were gonna go. There wasn't going to be a whole lot of questions but they wanted different shots, all of them together, then two or three of them together, something like that. "Can we see the puppies now?" Jack asked with a grin causing everyone to laugh.

"Even if I'm sure that they wouldn't take any videos or photos of that area." she said but she hurried to a changing area she was shown and pulled on the slacks switched to normal heels. Once she was back, she heard Jack she chuckled herself. "Alright I'm ready and definitely to see these puppies. Wonder if they're all tiny like the last time I did this or if there's bigger puppies." she said as they were lead to a room. "Wait you've done this before?" Jack asked. "Yep, back when I was filming x-men pup stuck his nose right in my blouse."

"Oh we have bigger puppies," someone said and Alex grinned slightly. When Jack asked Sophie about doing Alex chuckled. "She's a star Jack, of course she got to do these kinds of things before." They were separated into groups and Alex ended up sitting down in a room with Sophie and Rian while Jack and Zack went into another room. "Let's get the puppies in here," Alex grinned as he shifted to sit more comfortably.

"Oh that'll be different. I had little sausage dogs." she said as they got towards the room and she was excited to have some of the bigger puppies. Even if she loved smaller dogs too. As she moved, she sat down cross legged and chuckled. "They usually ask a question or two before bringing the puppies out babe, relax. Or I will try to take them all home." she teased. They answered the few questions before they released the puppies into their room and immediately were bombarded by the happiest little boy and girl puppies.

The questions really weren't so bad, nothing they had been worried for and when finally the puppies where let in that was pure chaos. "We all just smell like other dogs," Rian said as Alex watched the biggest puppy, who really was more like a bear cub, climb over Sophie and then towards him only to lick his face and then end up laying in his lap. "Look at this one, it's like a big, really cute teddy bear," he joked before he had to reach up to hold onto his cap so the puppy trying to steal it couldn't. "Hey that's mine."

Of course more questions were attempted to be asked once the puppies were let into the room but they were far too excited about the dogs than anything else. One big furry puppy climbed over her before she scooped up a touch smaller one and cuddled it to her. “Oh what a cutie you are.” She cooed. “Aw maybe he thinks it’s a toy you should share.” She teased as one puppy came up and snuggled into her lap and fell asleep and another one brought her a toy. “Aww don’t you just want more of these too?”

"My hat is not a toy," Alex laughed softly and shifted away as best as he could without disturbing the pup that was resting in his lap. "More of what?" Alex asked as all three of them continued to be too distracted from the interview questions. "I remember when Camden was a puppy. He was such a cute little one. They grow up so fast," Rian said with a chuckle as he was playing tug with one of the little ones.

“More dogs.” She said as if it should have been obvious. She always wanted more animals, more babies, and Alex knew this and these were baby animals? Of course it put her right back into that mindset and she knew he would figure that out all too quickly and want to put a stop to baby fever from cropping up in any way possible. “I can’t believe how big Camden is.” Sophie said honestly.

"He was so tiny when I got him too," Rian replied while Alex just watched the dog in his lap start to really doze off. "We're so not getting more dogs," he then said as he reached out to catch the little puppy trying to jump at Sophie. "How many dogs do you have?" the interviewer asked. "We have three, Peyton is very old, but he's holding up really well, the others are a bit younger and more agile. None of them is as big as this one's gonna get though," Alex explained as he pet the bear puppy in his lap. "Aren't you gonna grow to be such a big boy? Are you even a boy?" he chuckled.

“I still have Porky and Percy and they’re younger but not super young. I rescued Percy at the beginning of the pandemic.” She said, “But they get along so well we had four but lost our little Baz and Willa misses her little buddy.” She said pouting. “I definitely want more dogs we live on a farm with so much space that I can’t imagine dogs, other animals, babies.” She said honestly knowing that would sooooo end up in the article later. “Don’t just assume he’s a boy because he’s big she could be a strong girl.”

Alex looked over with a smile as Sophie talked about their dogs and the kids and their farm. "I don't just assume, okay there's so much fur," he chuckled as he shifted the puppy until he could pick it up and lift it. "Aww, you're a girl, very cute, very sweet little girl who's gonna get so big," he cooed. "But we don't need any more animals," Alex reminded Sophie with a chuckle.

“See a strong adorable wittle girl.” She cooed reaching over to ruffle the dog’s fur that did look just like a tiny little bear cub. “These are all so cute and I mean what’s the point of a farm without animals and babies and kids running around.” She said. “We have like 100 acres or something it’s not like we are gonna run out of space.” She said chuckling. “These dogs all have homes right, like they aren’t gonna go back to like some shelter.” She asked. “Actually, all of them have homes except for the little girl Alex is holding.”

"We have more than enough animals running around," Alex chuckled softly. But the pup in his arms really was very chill and super fluffy and cute and he was busy petting her and ruffle her fur when they said this little one did not have a home yet. He looked up quickly, eyebrows raised as he glanced down at the puppy. "She doesn't have a home yet?" he asked before looking over at Sophie and he was sure even Rian could tell what the look the two shared meant. They only got so much longer in the interview before they got back out. "How does she not have a home yet?" Alex asked as they were reunited with Zack and Jack.

Zack and Jack returned and more puppies joined them now that they were all in the same room. “Out of this bunch yes only she hasn’t found a home yet. Out of our tiny dogs one there hasn’t found a home either. We’ve no doubt they will but they do stay with families.” The producer said before trying to get back to questions. “Wait what kind of tiny dog?” Sophie popped up now before the producer said they could bring in the one puppy and when the tiniest little sausage dog was brought in she squealed too and then looked at the bigger girl puppy. “How can no one love these babies?” She said snuggling the tiny sausage into her arms. “Alexxxxx.” She whined.

"No don't bring the tiny dog," Alex almost sighed as they brought the little dog out for Sophie to know which one it was. Alex was still holding the big puppy in his arms who seemed content enough resting her fluffy head against his shoulder and he shook his head a little bit. "Soph," he said but Rian, who caught their glance at each other earlier, started laughing and patted him on the back. "Good luck with that, Al," he said with a smirk.

When the tiny puppy was brought in, she melted. There was no denying that Sophie wanted all the baby things. Puppies, babies, little tiny animals so seeing a tiny sausage dog she melted as much as she did the one that looked like a bear cub. "But Alex." she said holding the tiny dog up. "We can't let two of them not have a home."

"But we can't take both of them home," Alex told her. "We already have three dogs. We can't just bring two babies in. One puppy alone is gonna be a whole lot of work, we can't bring two," he tried to argue but the look on Sophie's face made it obvious she wasn't going to let one of them be homeless. It could have easily ended up being a never-ending discussion if it hadn't been for Zack who chimed in, "maybe Annie would like to get the little dog.. with me," he said causing everyone's head to turn to look at him. "You and Annie want to get a dog?"

"But Alex..." Her eyes going sad looking down to the little tiny sausage dog snuggled in her arms. "I want a tiny dog to cuddle too." she said almost just like Willa's voice would sound. When Zack chimed in, she was honestly surprised and turned to look. As much as she really, really wanted a tiny dog like that she could be so happy for her friends knowing this was a /big/ step for them to take. "I think she would love it." Sophie said, "She loves dogs, she said she figured she couldn't get one because she's always with us which I told her was silly we'd be more than happy but you surprising her with a puppy!" she squealed.

"Soph that's not fair," Alex sighed but then Zack jumped in and took everyone by surprise. "Yeah, I mean I know she loves dogs and she wants one but it's like Sophie said, she doesn't think she could which I'm sure we can figure it all out. I mean Rian's got a dog, Sophie and Alex got three and you're all making it work," Zack said and Alex couldn't help but smile. "I'm sure she'd love that, man," he said as he shifted the much bigger puppy in his own arms because of course she was a little heavy, but so sleepy he didn't dare put her down. Letting out a soft breath, Alex looked at Sophie and then offered a smile. "Guess that means none of the pups is gonna be homeless now."

She had to admit as much as she would have love having two she knew this was more reasonable and that she still got to have both of them around. "Oh that makes me so happy. Though I will get a sausage dog one day." she whispered the last part to Alex before shifting to give the tiny dog to Zack who looked even tinier next to him which was almost comical. "Well then, I take it this one is our girl?"

Alex raised a brow and shook his head slightly. "Let's go with just this one, okay?" he offered with a chuckle. It looked very comical how tiny the sausage dog puppy looked in Zack's arms, especially compared to the one Alex was still holding but it seemed to make sense. The puppy immediately seemed to settle and curl up so it was a done deal. "You know she's gonna get even bigger right? We got ourselves our own bear," he murmured, but he also knew he was done for and yes, the big fluff was coming home with them.

"For now." she hummed grinning, knowing that it'd be some kind of talk or bickering later but she was happy for now given the fact that two puppies would have homes, two puppies would be around each other but have their own spaces still. "I mean she'll be the cutest bear ever." she said petting her fur. "she's precious. Willa is going to go nuts." she said because it was true. "It'll be perfect to teach Delphine gentle. Especially with Zack's little little one." she said. "But we'll have to come up with a name for our girl."

Of course it was a bit of paperwork and figuring things out but a trip to the store later they had the car filled with anything they needed for the puppy and were on their way back to the rented house. "What are your thoughts on names?" Alex asked and glanced over at Sophie.

Once they had everything they needed at the store, Sophie picking out a sparkly pink collar for the female dog. They got a crate for her to sleep in and a bed, puppy food, and everything was good to go. "Well I don't know, we could finally get Sansa." she grinned. "But I wasn't planning on thinking of names, to be honest, so I'm not sure." she shifted with the dog in her lap. "She's a cute thing. I can't wait for Annie to see this and then find out her and Zack have a puppy together. That's pretty serious."

Alex tried to argue about the color of the collar but it really didn't show with all the fur anyway, so he let it slide and they picked out a few other things they needed. By the time they were back in the car and driving to the house, the puppy was passed out in Sophie's lap. Apparently it had been a very exciting day for her. He'd put his foot down with names so far but Sophie kept bringing up Sansa, and this time, Alex smiled and shook his head amusedly and then looked over at her and the puppy. "Okay," he said with a shrug.

She was finally getting a girl dog she was getting a pink color, and Sophie would have probably fought that tooth and nail. While Sophie wasn't overly girly in a traditional aspect every day she loved little moments. When he said okay to the name Sansa she blinked a few times before turning her head to look at him her face utterly bewildered. "Excuse me?'

The surprise was evident in Sophie's voice and Alex glanced over at her briefly, grinning amusedly. "I said 'okay'," he repeated while looking back out on the road. It wasn't too long of a drive now and Alex couldn't really wait to see how the kids would react to the puppy that was pretty much already almost their size, and she was gonna be so much bigger than the rest of the pack.

"You.. okay? After all this time you're finally going to give me Sansa as a name for our pet?' she raised a brow. "Is this because I didn't get the sausage dog because... that still doesn't fully make up for it you know." she pointed out. Glancing down. "She does look like a Sansa though, she looks like she's going to be strong and powerful." she said brushing her fur. "The kids are going to freak out. Annie is going to freak out when she sees that they are going to have a dog together."

Alex laughed softly and nodded. "Yeah, I'm okay. I know what I'm agreeing to. It feels like it makes sense though so I'm okay with it," he told her, glancing over again and offering a smile. "She's so tuckered out right now though," he laughed softly at how she was curled up in Sophie's lap. "You know, I'm really surprised Zack got the dog. I don't think I've ever seen him this committed," Alex said.

“Our little Sansa.” She cooed as she beamed all happy. Looking down the dog was fast asleep. “I’m a little afraid with her being so sleepy the babies startling her.” She said honestly. “She’s so tired she’s dead weight right now she feels like full on Willa’s weight on me.” She said. “I’m glad he did, Annie is gonna be so excited and I mean it is a big commitment and that’s good right it means they’re serious and basically if we didn’t have sex and have babies they wouldn’t be together” she laughed.

"Think we need to get her curled up in the bedroom for a bit without them noticing her?" Alex questioned. "I mean maybe, if we're lucky the kids are down for their nap anyway, but we can just get her inside unnoticed," he suggested. "I don't think it's just that," Alex laughed. "I don't know if I wanna base their happiness on our hiking trip," he said with a smirk as he pulled up to the rented house.

“If we maybe put one of their blankets over her and curl her up possibly. We can see if they’re down for a nap and then let her nap in a separate room.” She said until she woke up and the kids woke up. “I don’t know she was my friend first that never would have met him if we didn’t hook up and have kids… just saying. We basically made them happen.” She grinned glancing up. “Do you want me to call Annie to see if the kids are sleeping.”

"Put a blanket over her? I thought you'd just distract them and I carry this sleepy ball of fur into one of the other rooms to get her settled," he chuckled softly. "Don't tell Willa that or she's just gonna figure she's the reason Auntie Annie and Uncle Zack met," he said with a smirk as he stopped the car and got out, walking around to Sophie's door and opened it for her. "Your pick, you can call her to make sure."

"Why would I distract them? I'm already cuddling her, you distract them." she huffed as if that was obvious. "Yeah well someday she's going to figure out what happened. It's going to be obvious we weren't married when we had them, so you know we didn't believe in the whole no sex before marriage thing." she quipped. Grabbing her phone, she called Annie as the other car pulled up behind them. "Okay, yeah, great." she said before hanging up. "The kids /just/ fell asleep so perfect timing."

"Because you just said she's like dead weight right now, so I'll carry her and you distract the kids," he said as he climbed out of the car to go around it, just when the other car pulled up. "Perfect, give me the puppy so we can get her inside," he said with a grin. Out of the other car climbed Jack with the little sausage dog, Rian and Zack who had been driving. He took the little dog from Jack who was wiggling around and looking around curiously. "Why are we standing out here?" Jack asked. "We were just gonna head inside. We gotta be quiet though, the kids are down for their naps."

"You are not taking the puppy from me." she said glaring. "Not my namesake." she scoffed "She weighs like Willa and I carry Willa all the time, it's fine." she said as she got out, their new pup only snuggling more into Sophie. "We've got a tired puppy on our hands." she cooed. "We're gonna get her settled in the room to nap before introducing her to the kids when they wake up." she said. "But why don't you go first, Zack." since Annie was going to get the biggest surprise.

"I let you name her, let me get in on the cuddles," Alex argued as Sophie got out of the car with the puppy curled into her arms. "Let's get inside, shall we?" Alex chuckled as he headed for the door to unlock the door and let them all inside. "There you are, what was all the fuss about checking if the kids are sleeping?" She asked but instead of anyone explaining why, Zack was the one carrying a tiny sausage dog puppy towards her. "So we were doing this puppy interview, and a few of them didn't exactly have homes yet, so uh... I think you may want to meet little.. well actually this baby boy doesn't have a name yet because I kind of wanted to pick one with you," Zack told her with a grin.

They headed into the house but paused long enough to let Zack in first. Annie was curious why the big fuss and Zack started talking about puppies not being adopted and the little dog needing a home and picking out a name together and Sophie bounced on her feet as Annie was all shocked. “Really? He’s ours?” She gushed moving forward quickly. “And for fun we also got a puppy so your puppy and ours are gonna be best friends but ours is a bit bigger.” She said holding up the still sleepy puppy. “This is Sansa.” She grinned proudly.

"Yeah, I mean we were talking about it and I couldn't really leave him without being adopted," Zack explained with a smile. "You wanna hold him? He's really excited." The little puppy wiggled in his arms to try and get to Annie and Alex chuckled as Sophie came forward with their own new puppy. "You named her Sansa?" Jack asked and Alex nodded. "Yeah, about time I gave in," he said with a chuckle and ruffled the pups fur a little bit. "Alright, maybe we can just let her sleep with us in the living room so we can make sure we're right there to take her outside when she wakes," he suggested.

“Plus I wasn’t leaving without him being adopted and Alex was terrified of two.” She muttered. Shifting the pup into her arms she could see how happy Annie was and it was the right decision. “Yes we did and she’s the perfect Sansa ever.” She cooed absolutely in love with the puppies. “Oh I’m so excited we’re raising puppies together.” Annie said all excited. “That’s a smart idea so we can start training and it’s a fenced in yard so they’ll be safe.”

Really, seeing how excited Annie and Sophie were about the puppies made the potential stress they'd deal with training them so worth it. "Never too early to start training, we don't want them pooping into the house with three little ones running around," Alex chuckled softly. He headed for the kitchen to grab drinks before they all settled in the living room. Rian and Jack left eventually and Alex was just lounging on the couch, chatting with Zack while Sophie and Annie were still gushing over the puppies that were now more awake and playing together when he was sure the kids were gonna be up soon.

After a while the puppies were awake and started playing with each other. She was teaching Sansa to be more gentle with the tinier pup but honestly the little sausage dog wasn’t afraid and loving every minute of play time. After a bit longer she heard one of the baby monitors. “Oh the kids are waking up. We want them to be so gentle with yours would you mind holding your little one Annie.” Since he was so much smaller than their puppy. Even though they had to be gentle with both she knew kids could get overexcited especially when all of them were three and under.

Alex glanced at the monitor while Annie grabbed the little sausage dog to get him to rest in her lap, little Sansa hopping around trying to play and not understanding why she couldn't continue playing with her friend. "I'll go get them," he said as he got off the couch and stretched a little before he headed upstairs. It was Noah who woke up first and he rested his head against Alex's shoulder after he picked him up. "You wanna go get your big sister? Mommy and I have a surprise for you," he said with a smile and Noah nodded tiredly. They headed for Willa's room and slipped into the room to find Willa just starting to wake up. "Daddy?" she asked causing Alex to smile. "Yeah, yeah I'm right here, princess. You wanna come with Noah and me? Mommy and I have a surprise." Coming downstairs, Noah was still in Alex's arms while Willa walked by his side, her little hand holding onto Alex's tightly. "Delphi's still fast asleep, I didn't want to wake her yet," he said as they entered the living room.

“Surprise?!” Willa said though there was still sleep in her voice but the girl knew what a surprise was by now. “Santa?” She asked because she knew Christmas was coming as Sophie had been telling her. As she heard them coming down and Willa babble talking fast and happily before turning the corner. She got the dog all set before setting her down. “Look we have some new friends.” She said. “This is our new puppy and this is uncle Jack and auntie Annie’s new puppy.” She said before letting Sansa go and with very wobbly playful legs bounded towards the babies.

Alex laughed softly. "No, no. It's not time for Santa to come yet. We don't even have a tree set," he told her as she continued to babble on their way down. As they entered the living room, Sophie explained their new furry friends and let Sansa go to came tapping towards them. Willa's eyes widened and she let go of Alex's hand finally. "PUPPY" she squealed, arms opening up and the dog immediately hopping up against her sending them both tumbling down and Sansa tried to lick all over Willa's face while the little girl laughed and squealed happily. Noah started leaning all his weight forward to get down to the two of them and Alex shifted to put him down so he could greet the dog as well.

Seeing her kids happy was always going to be the greatest feeling Sophie could ever have. It was something she would always love and this just confirmed they did the right thing bringing the puppy home. Sansa tackled Willa down licking and kissing her all over and she was so excited to see her as much as Willa was before Noah was now playing. “Gentle remember she’s a baby so you have to be gentle even if you’re playing with her.”

Alex crouched down to be close and ready to react in case anyone got a little too excited but the pure happiness easily confirmed this was the right decision. He looked over at Sophie with a smile, sharing a look that told just that, before he watched their kids with the puppy again. "Gentle," Noah repeated and tried petting the puppy, but little Sansa seemed to be trying to play with Willa. "Easy," Alex said, holding her back the littlest bit so she couldn't actually jump on Willa. "Have they even seen the other puppy?" Alex asked, chuckling softly as the kids were still all over the furry puppy.

Noah was trying so hard to pet Sansa but she was all about Willa so when Alex mentioned the other dog Noah came toddling over curiously to Annie and looked at the puppy then at Annie then back to the puppy. “Puppy.” He said matter of factly as he reached out and gently patted the small dog. “That’s good Noah, so gentle he’s a tiny one isn’t he?” Sophie asked. “Tiny puppy.” He said mimicking Sophie’s words.

"That's alright, you get to pet little Sansa eventually, but go look at Uncle Zack's dog," Alex smiled as Noah toddled off to where Annie was sitting. Willa was now sitting on the floor with the puppy sitting in front of her, watching her every move while Willa was talking and babbling, telling the puppy stories. Alex got up again and smiled as he walked over to Sophie. "Think there's two best friends who found each other," he chuckled softly as he moved to sit beside her.

Noah seemed happy and content with Annie showing him how to be gentle with the little dog, even letting him hold the tiny dog once he was more settled and sitting down. Willa was off telling stories to the puppy they had brought home and she glanced over smiling. "Think she needed that best friend, she's missed having a dog bestie." she murmured shifting to nuzzle into Alex. "I miss Baz but maybe the universe knew to send us her new little bestie for him."

"I think we all miss Baz, but yeah, Willa was missing that bond and it does look like she's getting that again. I mean look at them," Alex smiled, "see Sansa's head tip to the side every now and then? Like she's actually listening." He moved his arm around Sophie and smiled.

“We’re always gonna miss his spunky attitude. There was no one who could have his sass like him.” She smiled fondly at the memories how he had been so protective of little Willa when they had needed it the most. “Was only a matter of time before she got that again.” Watching the puppy tilt her head. “Willa likes to talk she might get tired.” Sophie laughed leaning her head again his shoulder. “Today turned out to be one of the best days in a long time… just pure happiness.” She said especially before she knew he’d be leaving for Australia.