#chrisxblackreader

✨Pairing✨: Dennis BakerxBlack Reader

Summary🪄: You’ve got a bit of a soft spot for one of your regulars

⚠️: mention of divorce, talks of intimacy (including said statement of 🍆👀 lol), mention of pregnancy, small instance of harassment, implications of mental/emotional abuse, mostly fluff

A/N🎙: So this was inspired by @syntheticavenger and her Dennis fic which is amazing and so wonderfully written, so please go read it if you haven’t. I thought this would be a cute idea and I hope you guys like it☺️! Also don’t judge me for writing about this hamburger out the toilet eating man; for the sake of this story that was a drunk moment lol.

Ridding the circular table of the small sprinkles of sugar and drops of coffee left by the previous customer, you can’t control the sympathetic sigh that passes your lips at the sight of your more known customer in the corner. He typically came with his wife, but you’d noticed for a couple months she came less and less until she didn’t show at all. That typically wasn’t a good sign.

Especially with his once cheerful face falling to a mix of sorrow and disappointment. Maybe even shame.

✨Pairing✨: Andy BarberxBlack Reader

Summary🪄: Andy doesn’t know what to think of this new customer service

⚠️: Fluff💕!

A/N: This is based off an adorable TikTok I saw, so I’m hoping I do it justice trying to write something off the top of my head. Hope you guys like it☺️!

Locking the door behind him, a tired sigh passes his lips as he tosses his keys in the dish and placed his briefcase on the wooden table in the foyer holding today’s mail: a couple of bills, a store catalog for you, and a postcard for baby Sienna signed by your parents from their vacation in Hawaii. The two year old was sure to squeal and awe at the picture of two dolphins breaking the water’s surface with what looked to be smiles on their faces.

“Sweetheart, I’m home!,” he announces removing his suit jacket before loosening the solid, navy blue tie around his neck.

“In the bathroom!,” you shout back followed by water splashing and high pitched giggles as if Sienna was trying to announce her presence as well. After a day filled with hearings and paperwork, he was more than happy to sit back against the soft, cream cushions of the couch; house flooded with laughs and little songs from his girls flowing down the hall. He let the sweet sounds and day’s exhaustion drift him to sleep, eventually stirring again a few minutes later at the constant taps on his chest.

“Hi princess,” he groggily smiles seeing his daughter’s mahogany eyes as she holds out a small plastic cup incredibly close to his face.

“Offree dada.” He can’t help but chuckle at her offering of coffee, and how witnessing him, or you, pour the dark liquid into his usual white mug before adding a small amount of sugar every day only solidified the idea in her head that “daddy must really like coffee.”

“Thank you honey.”

She carefully climbs down his legs in her light green butterfly onesie toddling over to her play kitchen set where she babbled to herself while searching through the plastic plates and utensils.

“Let me guess, coffee?,” you ask motioning to the little red cup as you lean down to meet your husband’s lips.

“I don’t know if I should be impressed at how attentive she is, or worried that she’s trying to tell me something,” he replies making you giggle as you settle in the cushions beside him, his arm sliding around your waist to trace his fingers along the side of your recently shaved thigh.

“Well she made me five cups in the span of an hour, so I’m thinking it’s just her specialty.”

As if knowing she was the topic of discussion, she hurries over with tight curls bouncing atop her head in two puffs and a mini frying pan in her hand holding it out towards Andy.

“Food?”

This meant she wanted you to give her your order so she could “cook” for you. Something she’d loved to do since getting the play set for her birthday, feeling as if she was just like her parents getting to prepare food in her own little kitchen.

“Hmm what do I want?,” Andy pretended to think, lightly scratching his beard. He’d typically just choose one of her favorites whenever she’d ask making her face light up before running back to her stove. This time though, Andy wondered how she’d react if he gave more than one answer.

“What about pizza..and French fries?”

“Oooh!,” she gasps clearly happy with his choice.

“And nuggets with tatoes,” he adds watching her excitedly bounce on her toes before walking towards the pretend kitchen.

“Ohh and Mac and cheese! And yogurt and ice cream.” Sienna let out a small huff, not being able to cook yet since her dad seemed to want everything tonight, which made you laugh to yourself at her growing impatience.

“I think I want cake too with cookies and candy and-,”

“Dada! Dada!,” she interrupted shaking his leg seemingly trying to tell him “that’s too much!”

“What? I’m giving my order.”

Babbling to herself as she left the pan on his lap, her feet pad to her toy chest retrieving Kit, her favorite kitten stuffed animal, before lying down next to the oven with a tired sounding sigh.

“I uh think she said if you want all that, you’re cooking it yourself. She’s off kitchen duty,” you laugh truly tickled at your daughter’s sass. Andy can’t help but laugh to himself either, getting up to place the small pan with the rest of her toys before picking her up from the floor to rest against his chest with arms around his neck.

“Be glad you’re cute. Anybody else I would’ve given a low score for customer service,” he smiles kissing the top of her sleeping head.

Taglist: @fumbling-fanfics @honeychicana @lady-olive-oil @themyscxiras @melinda-january @lovelymari4 @ladydmalfoy @maxcullen @literaturefeen @damnitaa @curlyhairclub @plokyu23 @fullofmelaninsarcasmandepression @nunubug99 @felicity-x0 @ellixthea @jojolu @jnk-812 @brwn-sgr @captainsamwlsn @wildfirecracker @nina-sj @iammyownlover @chaneajoyyy @scoop93535 @secretmysteriousperson

✨Pairing✨: trucker!Ari LevinsonxBlack Reader

Summary🪄: Nightmares feel 10x worse when you’re by yourself

⚠️: mention of nightmares, work stress, pretty much all fluff

A/N🎙: Hi guys👋🏾! This is a bit self indulgent, but I hope you like it!

You’d think you were actually running how your heart raced against the mattress as your eyes opened to the dark bedroom. Automatically, you reach out expecting to meet the hard body you’re so used to being beside you, but instead all you feel are cold sheets making you frown. Of all the times Ari had to be on the road, these were the ones you hated the most.

When all you wanted was to be held, needing to be reminded how, “It’s just a dream sweetheart. You’re safe with me,” in that deep, soothing voice only he could provide. And although Dino was an equally adorable snuggle partner, you didn’t want to disturb the 11-month old German shepherd pup lightly snoring in his bed by the door.

“At least one of us is getting sleep,” you spoke to yourself. Sitting against the headboard, you finally notice the uncomfortable stick of Ari’s shirt against your chest and back due to your sweat as you wonder what to watch to ease your mind of the mysterious stranger chasing you through a random park. Truthfully you didn’t want to sleep anymore, slightly afraid of finishing said nightmare and giving your subconscious hunter another chance at capturing his prey. You were tired though having arrived home shortly after midnight and apparently only getting three hours of sleep so far with your phone reading 3:10 am.

“Maybe Ari’s still up?,” you wondered as your thumb hovered over his number. Your favorite picture of him from your first Christmas together goofily smiling at you through the screen. His deliveries spanned the west coast this time, meaning it was only a little after 12 for him. Although you didn’t like it, Ari preferred driving late at times since hardly anyone would be on the road. He’d then have an early jump on the next stop and able to rest a bit more after his delivery rather than having to immediately jump back on the interstate.

It rings four times before you hear shuffling and Ari’s groggy voice break through the silence filling you with even more want and slight guilt.

“Oh I’m sorry. I uh didn’t mean to wake you.”

“No don’t apologize,” he yawns. From his little moan you can tell he was stretching too. “What’s wrong?”

“I-It’s nothing. You should sleep it’s late.”

“And so should you, so tell me what’s got you up gorgeous?”

“…bad dream,” you whisper toying with the hem of his grey Celtics shirt. You should probably change, but that could wait until the morning when you’d shower.

“Aww I’m sorry. You wanna tell me what happened?”

“This random guy was chasing me around a park. I know it’s just a dream though and I should get over it. Be strong and all that.”

“Well as we both know, dreams can feel very real though so it’s okay to need a moment. Anything else goin’ on?” Like the attentive husband he is, Ari knew you mainly had nightmares when something was bothering you.

The last one being around the time he had to go back on the road for weeks at a time again.

“Work hasn’t really been the best,” you admit.

“Nobody’s botherin you are they? Because I’ll be back next week-,”

“No papa bear relax,” you giggle. “Just me wanting to be perfect and do well.”

“And I’m sure you are. I don’t even have to be there to know that,” he softly chuckles. “As far as being perfect goes, you know you’re perfect to me.” You can practically hear his child like smile through the phone instantly making your lips curl into one of your own.

“Glad I could get ya smiling again.”

“How’d you know?,” you shyly ask returning your head to the mounds of pillows behind you.

“The cameras. Little did you know I’ve been watching this entire time.”

“Mhm sure,” you laugh, resting the phone on the pillow next to you. Soon it’s quiet again, but comfortably so knowing your husband is there even if only audibly. “Thanks for getting my mind off things.”

“Of course. Remember all you can do, and all anyone asks of you, is your best. I know that’s what you give every day you step in that office and I’m proud of you for it,” he smiles nearly bringing tears to your eyes from his words.

“I love you.”

“I love you too sweetheart, now get some rest you gotta be up early tomorrow. Unless you’re still not sleepy which I definitely have some ideas to help with,” he smirks as you roll your eyes.

Such the Romeo this man.

“I-Is it too much to ask for you to stay with me? If you’re really tired I get it, but I just wanna hear your voice a little longer.” Now was his turn to get comfortable—as much as he could in the 18-wheeler cab that is. Arm behind his head lying on his pillow, his other lies on his stomach after placing his phone on his chest as he softly smiled.

“Never. I’m here as long as you need me.”

Taglist: @fumbling-fanfics @honeychicana @lady-olive-oil @themyscxiras @melinda-january @lovelymari4 @give-me-a-million-dollars-pls @bekinds @ladydmalfoy @maxcullen @curlyhairclub @plokyu23 @fullofmelaninsarcasmandepression @nunubug99 @felicity-x0 @ellixthea @jojolu @jnk-812 @captainsamwlsn @wildfirecracker @nina-sj @iammyownlover @chaneajoyyy @thesecretlifeofdaydreamss @damnitaa @literaturefeen @bamondomesticity @scoop93535 @secretmysteriousperson

✨Pairing✨: gamer!Jake JensenxBlack Reader

Summary🪄: Your boyfriend can kinda be oblivious sometimes

⚠️: tiny bit of angst, mentions of menstrual cycle and symptoms, fluff

You wouldn’t consider yourself a clingy person really. You valued your alone time being able to decompress the stresses of life how you saw fit or do whatever you pleased with your free time.

Naturally though, there were those moments that you wanted extra cuddles and kisses. To be doted on by your loving boyfriend. Like now when your uterus seemed to have its mind set on making you miserable.

However, your boyfriend had yet to catch onto your time of need leaving you to retreat to his gaming room for some quest with his team. It had been an hour of excited yes’s mixed with gasps and frustrated groans which made it even more difficult to focus on the movie you were watching.

Not that you were annoyed by it. Hearing him made you want to be part of the fun even if it was just sitting off to the side watching his character jump and dash across the high definition monitor as his fingers gracefully pressed against the colorful buttons. As long as you could be in the same room as him inhaling the citrus and cedar lifting from his skin, you were fine.

Tiptoeing to the office space that consisted of his make shift studio, you shyly peak in to see him sitting a bit too close for your liking with his plumper, bottom lip tucked between his teeth. Toned body hunched forward concentrating on whatever battle was on the screen as his biceps twitched with every other tap of his finger. Pushing his glasses to rest higher on his nose he notices you in his peripheral, briefly pausing the game and covering the mic attached to his headset so he couldn’t be heard by his other teammates.

“Was I too loud?,” he asks full of concern, mentally making you aw at how incredibly and unknowingly cute he could be.

You shake your head. “No, I was just watching.”

“Oh, well don’t be shy.”

Motioning with his head for you to join him, you feel giddy striding along the carpet to sit on his lap nuzzling your face in his neck with a content purr.

“Um Y/N, although this is very nice-,”

“Oh are you streaming?,” you ask quickly standing up and partially out of the camera’s view.

“No but my mic’s gonna be on so be careful,” he states pulling his older gaming chair from the corner so you could sit beside him. Soft smiles spread along both of your lips as you get settled and he leans over to sweetly peck your cheek over and over until he was content.

Much to the dismay of his friends who could hear the dramatic “muah” every time Jake made contact with your skin since he accidentally turned his mic back on.

“It’s called mute lover boy.”

“Aww thanks Jakey! Love you too bro.”

“If you guys need a minute, we can sub you out. Just saying.”

“Alright alright I’m back, sorry,” he replies clearing his throat. The pink hue of his ears and cheeks has you silently giggling to yourself.

“Don’t be rude, tell Y/N we said hi!”

“Hi Tobey, Derrick, Linus. Sorry about earlier.”

It didn’t take long for Jake to regain his focus. The tiny man on the screen dressed as some sort of ninja/knight switching between brandishing his swords—before slicing and stabbing enemies—and using his bandaged hands and feet to punch and kick his way through crowds of enemies. Leaning forward again with his elbows propped on the armrests, you can’t help scooting a tad closer to wrap your arms around his upper arm placing your head on his shoulder.

A tender moment short lived by Jensen gently wriggling out of your grasp.

“Babe I can’t have you on my arm like that while I’m playing,” he whispers before shouting at Tobey to shoot arrows at the evil troll on his left.

Your soft “sorry” goes unheard by Jake in yet another battle with three—now four giants. Okay so you might not be able to touch him, but there shouldn’t be a problem with your head on his shoulder, right? So you waited until his battle was over and the group of men were congratulating each other on their successful bout before returning your head to his broad shoulder as a cut scene played. The calming narration paired with being in your boyfriend’s company has you smiling to yourself, eyes closing in content until a long awaited reveal has his arms shooting up to his head in shock and your nose being hit in the process.

“Ow! Jake!”

“Oh jeez, sorry. I forgot you were there for a second.”

“It’s fine,” you sigh, standing up to put the chair back in it’s original spot.

“Hey where ya goin?”

“Our room, since apparently I’m either in the way or forgotten in here.” Grabbing for your hand, you’re quick to dodge him.

“Babe cmon, I didn’t-,”

“Whatever Jake just go back to your game.”

Before he can say another word, you’re already out the door and down the hall leaving the blonde gamer with his head falling back against the chair’s headrest, and eyes closed mentally groaning.

“Oooh someone’s in troublee,” is the last thing he hears followed by muffled chuckles before he’s taking his headset off following behind you.

———

It was so quiet when he entered the dimly lit room he thought you might’ve gone to sleep. However watching as you grimaced holding your lower abdomen and curling in on yourself, Jake’s heart sank feeling even worse that he made you upset.

“Hey Tink.”

“I don’t wanna hear it Jensen.”

“I’m sorry. You know that I never want to make you feel like you aren’t welcomed.” His sock clad feet shuffle closer until you feel the bed dip behind you followed by a sigh. “I’m also sorry for not realizing sooner that you just wanted to be close to me.” Still you lied there with your back facing him as if you hadn’t heard a word.

Normal, everyday you would’ve easily accepted his apology with open arms and plenty of kisses. However sensitive you, feeling as if you were being murdered by your own body, was a bit more stubborn.

Your ever persistent Jake wasn’t letting go easily either.

Lying down, he scoots closer behind you until his nose is pressed to the back of your neck. The warm air from his nostrils fanning across the small hairs on your nape. “Pleasseee don’t be mad at me.”

Seeing the faint twitch of the corner of your mouth and hearing your small cough trying to cover your giggle gives him hope as he wraps his bulky arms around your waist. “Go ahead and laugh, you know you want too.”

Luckily he moved his head back just in time for you to turn around, noses practically kissing on their own.

“Your nose is cold.”

“Then warm it for me,” he winks in yet another one of his dorky, yet very lovable, attempts at being smooth. You would roll your eyes, as you tended to do with some of the things your boyfriend did, but the sharp, stabbing pain in your lower abdomen has them tightly closing instead.

“Need me to get you anything?”

“No, I just took something, it hasn’t kicked in yet,” you answer taking a few deep breaths trying to relax amid the discomfort. “Don’t worry I’ll be fine.”

“I wouldn’t be a good boyfriend if I didn’t worry,” he states sliding off the bed after pecking your temple. “Go ahead and do whatever you need, I’ll be on the couch with the heating pad and perhaps even holding someone’s favorite food.” The excited yet tired gasp that escapes your mouth makes him chuckle watching your eyes visibly brighten.

“But what about your game?”

“You’re my main priority tink, so if your upset I wanna try to fix it.”

Plus not to mention he only had one life left and if he made the guys start over again, they’d surely kick him off themselves.

“You’re my favoritest ever,” you giggle.

“Love you too tink.”

Taglist: @fumbling-fanfics @honeychicana @lady-olive-oil @themyscxiras @melinda-january @lovelymari4 @give-me-a-million-dollars-pls @bekinds @ladydmalfoy @maxcullen @curlyhairclub @plokyu23 @fullofmelaninsarcasmandepression @nunubug99 @felicity-x0 @ellixthea @jojolu @jnk-812 @captainsamwlsn @wildfirecracker @nina-sj @iammyownlover @chaneajoyyy @damnitaa @literaturefeen @bamondomesticity @scoop93535 @secretmysteriousperson @thesecretlifeofdaydreamss

✨Pairing✨: mob!Ari LevinsonxBlack Reader

Summary🪄: You find out what exactly Ari had in mind for that perfect date

⚠️: insinuations to naked hugs, fluff mixed throughout, mention of death, cheating (?…you’ll see)

A/N🎙: Hey guys! For those interested this is the next chapter of my little series☺️ (well one of them lol). I feel like my last chapter sucked and wasn’t really interesting so I hope you like this one! Also I’m gonna go ahead and apologize now because I know this one’s long (possibly the longest I’ve written yet😬) and because I write on mobile I’m not able to add the Read More line.

It had been a week exact from being invited to Ari’s party, and you had yet to hear from him again.

No text. No call. He hadn’t even come for his morning usual.

Unfolding the white tablecloth and sliding it along the square dark wood before setting it with the recently cleaned dishes, your mind wanders through every detail of that night as it had many times before. Ari gave you a tour of the immaculate mansion, privately getting to know you with every step down a dim hall. Of the few pictures that were hung, one particular showing Ari as a little boy sitting in his uncle’s lap mid laugh prompted stories from both of your childhoods making you fall even more for the bachelor.

He never personally knew his father who left while his mother was only halfway through her pregnancy. Knowing she’d have a difficult time caring for a child by herself, Ari’s uncle moved both of them in with him, his wife, and their full help staff. She insisted on working until she could save up enough to stand on her own, even though his uncle didn’t mind them staying for as long as she wanted. They were family, and they were both raised to do whatever they could for their blood.

Three years later, and she was close to the goal she’d set for herself. A steady job that paid well and feeling comfortable enough that she could care for little Ari by herself. However, a car accident extended his stay with his uncle indefinitely, killing his mother on impact when a drunk driver decided to speed on the wrong side of the road.

Being so young of course he couldn’t really remember a lot of his mother, but you could see the hurt in his eyes looking over the lone picture of her sitting on a blanket in the grass. Her hand comfortably on her extended abdomen as she smiled at the camera.

“This probably sounds strange, but there’s times I miss her as if I knew every little thing about her. Or was able to watch her grow old,” he speaks in a hushed whisper. Soft blue eyes finally meeting yours when you held his hand.

“It’s not strange at all. I’m no expert or anything, but I feel like you’re also missing what could have been, which can live in your head and make the pain even worse.”

Maybe his absence was due to regret of sharing so much of himself so early. That things were moving too fast for his liking with a girl that may not spark his interest anymore.

“Y/N, mind helping me with some boxes in the back?,” your manager asks just as you’ve finished setting your last table.

“Yea sure,” you answer following behind. Silently thankful for the welcomed distraction of her small talk.

———

The aroma of pan seared steak mixed with a pasta or soup of some sort is quick to settle along the walls of his nostrils shortly after entering the busier restaurant. It was a stark contrast to the usual smell of coffee and pastries he’d encounter all those mornings sitting in his booth waiting for your angelic glow, but it was still welcomed from the light grumble of his stomach. Beige turtleneck over his fitted, dark brown slacks and caramel dress shoes, he’s a slave to routine striding towards his empty booth immediately picking up the menu now displaying their lunch and dinner options.

“And what can I get for you handsome?”

A very appreciated compliment, but definitely not from the voice he expected—or wanted it to come from.

Sleek, black hair in a high ponytail, her hazel eyes seemed to drink in his muscular frame and sharp features as she stood tapping a pen against her cherry painted lips. Judging from the sensual smirk, she was clearly enjoying the man in front of her.

“Um I actually need more time if you don’t mind,” he politely smiled.

“Sure thing. I’ll be back in a few.” Ari could feel himself deflate at the possibility of you not being in today. Not seeing your warm smile or the cute way you’d get distracted telling a story. Midway through a totally different yet connected tale before shyly apologizing.

He never did mind though, addicted to the sweet sound of your voice.

The quick flash of movement in his peripheral has his joy restored turning to see you behind the bar wiping out various kinds of glasses. Making sure his previous waitress wasn’t walking towards the table, his legs and brain were on a faster accord carrying him to the vacant bar.

“You can’t change up on me like that angel,” he speaks slightly making you jump. “Nearly gave me a heart attack.”

Seeing your eyes brighten and you become flustered, almost knocking over the glass beside you has the sweetest smile gracing his pink lips, and heart warming his entire chest more than any cup of coffee could.

“Ari! Um, I-I mean hi.” What kind of magic did this man hold to make you act like this?

“So, they moved you back here?,” he asks folding his arms on the glossy wood. His biceps and pecs bulging against the cotton sweater nearly have you losing your train of thought.

“No, just covering for someone today. Tomorrow I’ll be back to my usual section.”

“Good to know.”

“I was wondering where you ran off to so quick,” Ari’s waitress, Rosalyn from her name tag, smiles at the brunette before turning her attention to you. “If I didn’t know any better, it looks like you were trying to steal my customer Y/N.”

“Actually Y/N is an old friend of mine. I just came to visit her really,” he winks at you before reaching in his wallet removing a crisp $50 bill appearing as if it was just printed minutes ago. “For your trouble though.”

Of course she was happy to receive a big tip, but the fact that quite possibly the most handsome customer she’d seen yet was occupied with someone else made her smile falter meeting your eyes. “Thank you sir.”

“You know Rosalyn’s a great waitress. She could’ve helped you,” you state once she moved back to her—well your usual section.

“I’m sure she is, but once I get used to someone I like to stick with them.” You were at a loss for words not knowing whether it was a compliment or just a simple statement. The sultry look in his eyes along with the natural and effortless lick of his lips though, tells you it might be the former of the two.

“Oh, um that’s-,” you can’t even formulate a sentence with your brain trying to keep your body upright on your weak knees. Taking a break from his intense yet soft eyes, you notice the red scrapes and light blue bruises along the knuckles of his right hand immediately twisting your face into concern. “What happened?”

“Just me being accident prone,” he chuckles now hiding his hand in his lap. “I was moving some furniture and scraped it against the wall.”

“But, the bruises-,”

“I’m fine angel. Honest,” he smiles. “I do need your help with something though.”

“O-Okay, what is it?”

“I was invited to the ballet tomorrow, but I really don’t want to go by myself. Was wondering if you might be interested in joining me?” Of course you were. You’d immediately say yes if it weren’t for you remembering you hadn’t heard or spoken to him in a week, thoroughly confusing you about Mr. Levinson.

Your mouth opens once, then twice before his larger hand covers yours on the hardwood. It’s warm. Equal parts rough and soft, and you miss how it felt against your side the night of the party.

“Hey, talk to me,” he states. “If you don’t want to go-,”

“No I do. I just…I haven’t heard from you in a while and thought…well, maybe-,”

“That I wasn’t interested? Trust me when I say I still am angel. I’ve just been so busy setting up the new office and work, I barely have time to piss.” Great, now you look like the crazy girlfriend that always jumps to conclusions. And you weren’t even a girlfriend.

“I’m sorry. You were just working and I’m over here panicked it was me, or something happened. I-I shouldn’t have said anything.”

“No don’t apologize.” His easy smile radiates all around you along with his charm. How does he do that? “I wanted to call or text, but life got in the way. I assure you though I will make that time up to you.”

“You don’t have to do that. It’s not a big deal.”

“It’s a big deal to me, and I know I don’t have to. I want to. That is, if you’ll let me.” Feeling the soft hairs of his beard prickle your knuckles and warm lips meet your skin has a barely audible gasp escaping you. However from his short chuckle, Ari still managed to hear it.

Clearing your throat, you try to compose yourself as he slowly lets your hand slip from his gentle hold. “Okay, I’ll be there. W-With you that is. I’d like to go with you Ari.”

“It’s a date then.”

———

“Aww look at you Miss Cinderella! All you’re missing is your crown.”

Backing up just enough that your full body came into view of your upright phone screen, you can’t help the giddy smile as you twirl making the metallic blue, a-line dress shimmer and flow along your legs. Luckily, your bridesmaid dress from your brother’s wedding still fit after two years.

“I think the crown might be too much Ty,” you giggle spritzing yourself with your usual vanilla perfume. “I honestly feel like this dress is a bit much too.”

“Trust me, it’s not. Pretty much everyone there is gonna be dressed in their designer gowns and suits, I’ve gone enough times.”

“I just don’t wanna be overdressed.”

“Y/N, you look great and Mr. GQ isn’t gonna be able to control himself once he sees all that thigh,” she winks making you laugh. This is why you wished she was able to physically be there with you. To help calm your anxious nerves and deter your thoughts to things more lighthearted so you wouldn’t get so in your head you’d cancel.

“Tyla, what if-,”

“No! No what ifs,” she points at her screen taking a break from her computer and whatever she was typing. “Be present and try not to constantly be thinking about if you’re doing something wrong. It’s a date, have fun.”

Before you can answer, two short knocks on your door have your mouth dry and heart nearly bounding out of your chest knowing who was there. “Coming! That’s him, I gotta go.”

“Ok, call or text when you get home. And remember what I said!”

“I’ll try,” you sigh saying your short goodbyes after. With one last look in the mirror, you take a deep breath trying to calm your nerves and racing heart. You couldn’t let Ari see you nearly on the brink of hyperventilating, thus marking the start of a terrible night.

“Sorry, I was-,” you start, door open just enough that your words became lodged in your throat taking in the man in front of you. Hair slicked back and beard appearing freshly lined and trimmed, you mentally groan that he always seemed to have this effect on you. Black, velvet blazer over his black long sleeve, black slacks, and matching dress shoes, the gold medallion hanging around his neck brought even more attention to his broad chest.

“How do you manage to leave me breathless every time I see you angel?” Standing under his gaze roaming up and down your body has you feeling even more shy, shifting from one leg to the other.

“I really should be asking you,” your mouth speaks before your brain can stop it. The way your eyes shut and head taps the side of the wooden door embarrassed your words couldn’t stay in your head as planned makes a low chuckle escape his pink lips, and finger gently tilt under your chin to face him.

“You’re too cute you know that?”

He loved how adorable you were. From the way your fingers fiddled with your necklace when you were nervous to how you’d dip your head when you fumbled over your words accidentally talking to fast, he ate it up every time.

And little did you know, it brought a soft smile to his face whenever he needed it throughout the day.

“Ready to go?,” he asks offering a bent arm to escort you to his waiting car. You’re not surprised to see he owned the newest Audi A4 that reflected the overhead lights of the garage against its matte black exterior. If it were dark enough and you weren’t careful, you might miss it from it being camouflaged to it’s surroundings.

Ever the gentleman, Ari opens your door before smoothly walking to the other side and getting in himself. Him checking to see that you’re settled and comfortable before driving off has a giddy smile forming on your lips and a flock of seagulls in your stomach.

The way his hand grips the steering wheel and watch shines on his wrist with every turn doesn’t help ease that feeling. And the soft “may I?,” as his other hand rests palm up just below the radio waiting for yours definitely doesn’t help the new heat rising. You were glad the eye contact was at a minimum as you both talked, or else you’d surely be a mess from nervous sweats.

“I honestly didn’t peg you as a ballet or theater guy,” you speak once stopped at a red light. The short peek of his gleaming teeth from his amused grin leaving you weak and happy you were already sitting down.

“Why’s that? I don’t look sophisticated enough?”

“No! No, I guess because you always seem to be on the go I figured sitting down to a show wouldn’t be your first choice for a night of fun.” There’s that deep chuckle again accompanied by the light squeeze of your hand in his.

“I’ll admit it’s not my first choice, but it definitely isn’t my last.” Naturally, you were intrigued and wanted to know more.

“I’ll tell you mine if you tell me yours,” you smile briefly meeting his eyes before his attention was back on the busy street. He loved how you were visibly becoming more comfortable around him, giving glimpses to the side of you kept hidden away.

“…my first choice, going to a game.”

“Figures,” you thought gently nodding your head.

“My last would be skydiving.”

“Afraid of heights?”

“No, I just don’t like the idea of jumping out of a plane and trusting a flimsy piece of fabric.” A very understandable concern to have. “Your turn.”

“Okay, um first choice…watching the sunset in the park. Last is going on a cruise.”

“Hm, first time I think I’ve heard someone not like cruises. Bad experience?”

“No, I’ve uh never been. The rooms seem small and I don’t like tight spaces.” From his peripheral, he can see you uncomfortably shift, although subtle, in your seat making him graze his thumb over the back of your hand after giving it a gentle squeeze.

“I’m sorry I didn’t mean to bring up any bad memories.”

“Don’t be. I mean you told me yours, it’s only right I tell you mine.”

“You don’t have to angel, you don’t owe me anything.” Finally parked and waiting for the valet, he’s able to fully gaze at you. The golden lights built into the hanging overhead of the building shining through the tinted window enough to enhance your already light glow.

“I know, but I want to,” you softly smile. “I was in kindergarten and we were playing hide and seek in the gym. There were these cubby like lockers off to the side so I hid there. A few seconds after, someone slid something in front of the door not knowing I was there, and no matter how much I tried I couldn’t get it open. I wanted to scream but I was hyperventilating so bad, all I could do was cry. The teacher told my parents it was only five minutes, but it felt like an hour until anyone found me thus embarrassingly leading to my claustrophobia.”

“You shouldn’t be embarrassed, and I’m happy you felt comfortable enough with me to tell me that.”

With his free hand, he comfortably grips your chin feeling entranced by your deep brown orbs and desperately wanting to feel your rose lips against his since you opened the door looking like the goddess you were. The flicker of your eyes from his to his lips and back as you lean forward has him following your lead, nearly an inch away before a knock on his window makes a frustrated stream of air escape his nostrils.

“Sorry for the wait sir. Would you still like your car parked?,” the young, lanky looking valet asks immediately after Ari lowers his window. Giving him his keys and opening your door, your hand returns to its new home in his as you’re escorted along red, velvet like carpet lining the entire floor of the theatre’s lobby. Tyla was right about the expensive gowns and suits. Everyone around you looked regal or as if they’d walked straight off a fashion week runway to the historic building. And although you were dressed similar, you still felt inadequate, like you were a cat trying to masquerade as a dog.

“Ari, Miss Y/N,” a mystery man greets standing in front of you both. Hands clasped in front of his body, his larger and slightly huskier frame towered over you but was about equal height to Ari. His piercing green eyes made it impossible to look away from their beauty and the intensity of their nearly clear color. Your mind began to wonder how this person could know you when you’ve never met him before until the slight turn of his neck showed the intricate ink along his skin more clearly.

You recognized that dragon tattoo from the party. He was one of the stoic looming figures outside the room Ari and his uncle were meeting in. Needing the restroom, you walked through the common area briefly making eye contact before scurrying on your way. You spoke saying a soft hello, but apparently he didn’t hear. He simply stood similar to how he was now but definitely more intimidating.

“Y/N, this is Leo. He’s my personal assistant,” Ari introduces as you shyly raise your hand in a quick wave. “Everything good?”

“Yea, also saw Monroe a few minutes ago. He said he’d be seated near the front.”

“I’ll have to give him a visit during intermission then,” he smiles beginning his strides towards a more secluded set of escalators and stairs.

“Are we not sitting out there?,” you ask a bit confused as you’re both followed by Leo.

“No, our section’s a bit higher but I think you’ll like it.”

Overlooking the entire theater, the velvet lined box seat with velvet and gold chairs made you feel like the Queen of England looking down at her subjects. Now that you were seated you were honestly glad to be in your own box. There was no one blocking your view or continuously talking, seemingly knowing nothing about whispering as if they wanted to be heard over the actors. Why couldn’t movie theaters have seats like this?

“You like it?,” Ari asks, crystalline like eyes hopeful of your answer.

“I love it, it’s the perfect view,” you softly smile. Mentally swooning over the single dimple near the corner of his mouth. “Thank you.”

“You’re welcome angel.”

The lights dimmed around you signaling the beginning of the first act and the murmuring around the room to cease. Neither of you had heard of this production, but it seemed to be a retelling of Romeo and Juliet from the details of the program found in your seats. As the first ballerina graced the stage, you were drawn in following every movement and additional dancer that gracefully spun and glided across the floor.

And although beautiful, Ari couldn’t keep his eyes off you.

How the soft smile had yet to leave your face as the act progressed. How your emotions also changed with the orchestra pieces, becoming concerned when the bass of the cellos became heavier, and then giggling along with the bouncier notes as the two lovers playfully danced around each other. How the glow of the stage lights brought more attention to your curled lashes and how they occasionally fluttered along your soft cheeks.

No one could convince him you weren’t an angel or some ethereal being. He’d collected too much evidence to prove them otherwise.

A light tap to his arm has his smile faltering, turning to see Leo motioning forward with his head. Up ahead trying to stealth-fully leave his seat while not distracting others from the show, was Monroe.

“Should I track him down?”

“No, he’s not rushing or panicked so I doubt he’s leaving. Plus looks like he has a date who didn’t go with him. He’ll be back.”

“Want me to collect for you?”

“Nah, this is a message I need to get across myself.” Turning back towards you, his soft smile returns seeing that you were still focused on stage. He hated to leave you even for a minute, but business called.

“Angel,” he whispers leaning close to your ear and lightly caressing your arm. “I’ll be right back.”

“Oh um okay. I-Is everything fine?”

“Yea just need the restroom. You keep enjoying yourself though, let me know what I miss.” With a wink, he was shrugging off his blazer and whispering something to Leo before he disappeared through the door while the burly man sat in his seat.

“I always did love the ballet,” Leo whispers leaning towards you, eyes locked forward and you thoroughly surprised to hear such a statement easily spill from his mouth.

———

“Ari please I can explain.”

“What more is there to explain Monroe? I see you here with your lovely date, nearly front row I might add, and wearing-what is…wow a Calvin Klein suit,” the brunette chuckles pushing his sleeves up as he slowly stalks closer to the trembling man. “Now we both know you can’t afford this on top of the three grand you owe so that leads me to believe that you’ve been holdin’ out on us.”

“No! Nonono t-that’s not what happened,” he nervously stutters.

“Oh I hope not. You know, I’d hate to have to deal with you myself…or worse, get uncle involved and you know he’s not as understanding as I am.”

“Just hear me out, please I-I got the money it’s just at home in the safe,” he nervously smiles. Beads of sweat forming on his pale forehead. “I-I finally hit big at the casino and set aside what I owed so I could pay you the first chance I got.”

“Monroe I swear if you’re lying-,”

“I’m not I promise! On my dog Fiona’s life I got it. You can even come by if you want and pick it up yourself.”

He narrows his eyes trying to gauge if the man in front of him was lying or not. Head slightly tilting as he slowly took Monroe in with arms crossed in front of his thick chest. “Alright, how about you drop it off tomorrow, not a minute later than 12 or I promise I’ll find you.”

“You got it. 12, no later I swear.”

His stern features turn softer clapping Monroe on the shoulder and giving it a squeeze firm enough to serve as a reminder for who was in charge.

Quite frankly, he didn’t know what he was more afraid of. Ari himself, and the reputation that hung overhead haunting everyone who threatened to disrespect or go against him, or how easily he seemed to be able to switch from that persona to someone you’d go as far to believe was your friend.

From the group of men that entered the restroom soon after, and those waiting outside, both knew intermission had begun.

“Hope you enjoy the rest of your night. I’ll be seeing you,” Ari smiles over his shoulder, unnoticed by everyone else but making Monroe’s blood run cold.

The private escalator had Ari returning to his section quicker than those on the main floor trying to maneuver through the crowds of people needing the restroom or just stretching their legs. His eyes immediately lighting and prior business forgotten at the sight of you and Leo talking.

“Now Leo, I don’t have to worry about you do I?,” he jokes as his right hand man rises from his seat.

“Course not boss,” he chuckles stepping close so he’s able to whisper. “Everything went okay?”

“Yea, fine. May need you to handle something if we don’t see our friend at 12 tomorrow though.”

“Just say the word.”

“So, what’d I miss angel?” Reclaiming his chair, his arm drapes across your bare shoulders. Warm fingertips gingerly grazing against the cool skin of your upper arm making you shiver.

“Um Mercutio and Tybalt died. Romeo and Juliet got married and spent the night together,” you answer as he gently nods listening to your words. “If there’s something you have to do for work, we can leave. I understand.”

His larger hand slides along the back of your neck with fingers resting at your nape causing your breath to hitch in your throat. Thumb gliding along your jaw line, it’s hard to ignore the little shocks his touch leaves behind. Just like the night of his party, all your focus seems to shift to those spots he formerly occupied wishing his touch never had to leave.

From his touches to the mint lightly fanning your lips, it felt like your senses were in overdrive making you overwhelmed in the best way.

“Tonight, nothing is more important than being with you. Making up for lost time remember?”

You slowly nod, fingertips moving on their own to lightly stroke his beard as you lean in needing to see if his lips really were as soft as they looked. The low sneeze from Leo sitting against the wall reminds you you’re not alone, and although just inches from finding your answer, you reluctantly drop your head suddenly more focused on the plush carpet trying to regain your normal heartbeat.

Ari’s soft kiss to your temple has you smiling as the lights dim once again for the start of the second half of the show. Part of you began thinking you might as well leave now. With his hand on your thigh and mind dizzy, there was no way you’d be able to pay attention.

———

The cedarwood left on his pillow, and partially yours, is the first thing you notice once you’re brought out of your deep slumber. Next is the ache roaming over your body reminding you of just a few hours prior and pulling a tired smile from your lips.

After the ballet, Ari treated you to dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the lapping, shallow waves of the bay that easily reflected the twinkling night sky with no high rise buildings or skyscrapers to block them. Bellies filled with gourmet food and a couple glasses of champagne, he offered to drive you home at the sight of your small yawn, but you weren’t ready to leave him though, mentally wishing that time would slow down so you could have longer with him.

“What?,” he asked, a touch amused noticing the ever slight pout of your lips.

“I…I don’t want to leave you yet,” you state peering down at both of your intertwined fingers resting on your lap. You might’ve had a bit of liquid courage from the bubbly coursing through your system, but your nerves still remained from your hushed tone. Grinning to himself, he tilts your chin to look at him with thumb grazing teasingly close to your bottom lip.

“What do you want to do then?”

Moments later, you were in his penthouse apartment both sat on his dark grey sectional sharing more about yourselves under the warm glow of the mini chandelier dangling overhead. Light touches began to linger longer over skin, and innocent pecks eventually turned hungrier until neither of you could hold back anymore. Your lips are still connected, and legs wrapped around his hips, when your back gently thuds against the cloud-like throw lying across the foot of his king sized bed. Clearly it wasn’t a regular king from how small it made you feel.

Or was that Ari’s doing from his arms being planted on either side of your head seemingly towering over you?

“Y/N are you sure?,” he asked taking a moment to catch his breath. You thought you could show better than you could tell sliding your hands from around his neck to the metal buckle pressing into your abdomen, but his hands moved quicker pinning yours above your head. The whimper that emitted from your throat definitely caught you off guard, but you’d have plenty of time later to feel embarrassed about that.

“As much as I love that little pout, I need you to know I want you to use your words with me angel.” His voice lowered to another octave and face so close to yours yet out of reach nearly made you convulse. “I’ll give you anything you want, but you have to say it.”

“Y-Yes I’m sure. I want you Ari.”

The soft smile he flashed before tasting your lips again quickly had your heart melting, along with other places.

He was so attentive, committing every whine, whimper, moan, and squirm to memory trying to make sure you were taken care of. And from how relaxed you currently felt, you’d say he achieved his goal.

Whoever was lucky enough to stroll into your life after Mr. Levinson definitely had some competition.

Realizing how quiet it was, you slowly rise clutching the white sheet to your bare chest wondering where Ari could be. His side of the bed wasn’t made and both of your clothes were still strewn across the floor, which you hoped was a sign he was still here. You gently pad along the short fibers of the cream carpet kneeling to get your intimates and dress, lying it at the foot of the bed. In an attempt to conceal yourself, you carefully pulled his white tank over your head although you were sure Ari wouldn’t mind you walking around half naked.

Daylight shining bright through the floor to ceiling windows, you’re able to observe a bit more of the penthouse apartment than you could last night. The stainless steel appliances in the pristine kitchen that looked as if it was hardly used. The two extra doors you assumed led to guest rooms. How he seemed to be planted right in the middle of the hustle and bustle of the city peering down at the crowded street filled with cars and people rushing from corner to corner. You feel those butterflies again and smile form on your lips at his tattooed back sitting on the balcony enjoying the mid-morning air with phone pressed to his ear.

“Probably business,” you thought stepping towards the cracked door. You only meant to let him know you were about to leave, but his words had you frozen in place focused on this private conversation.

“Hey, sorry I didn’t call last night I was tied up with some things.”

More like someone.

“How’s princess? Good, that’s good. No, I uh can’t really talk this morning but tell her I’ll call later.”

The way he peered down at his feet, free hand keeping his hair out of his eyes as he lowly spoke made him appear guilty, which didn’t help your new impending thoughts.

“Yea I’ll be back in time for the recital, I wouldn’t miss it. Alright, don’t let me hold you I know how she can get,” he chuckles, “Talk to you later, love you too.”

Your feet were apparently just as shocked as your mind from their limited movement. How could this man who’d been nothing but sweet, kind, and ever so charming with you do this? Not only to you, but those waiting for him wherever they were more than likely not knowing about his double life. Just as you were finally able to turn around, trying to quickly retreat back to the bedroom to get your things, the click of the lock followed by his low whistle has you dreading ever serving the man behind you.

“Good morning angel,” he smiled swiftly twirling you to face him before pecking your lips and jaw. A low hum sounded in his throat as his eyes raked along your body loving how you looked in his clothes, while his finger traced up and down the shoulder’s band. “Sleep well?”

You simply nodded. Small grin planted on your face trying to hide the hurt you currently felt aching through your chest. You might’ve slept well, but you had definitely woken to a nightmare finding Ari wasn’t the man he appeared to be.

Taglist: @fumbling-fanfics @honeychicana @lady-olive-oil @themyscxiras @melinda-january @lovelymari4 @give-me-a-million-dollars-pls @bekinds @ladydmalfoy @maxcullen @curlyhairclub @plokyu23 @fullofmelaninsarcasmandepression @nunubug99 @felicity-x0 @ellixthea @jojolu @jnk-812 @captainsamwlsn @wildfirecracker @nina-sj @iammyownlover @chaneajoyyy @damnitaa @literaturefeen @bamondomesticity @scoop93535 @secretmysteriousperson @thesecretlifeofdaydreamss

✨Pairing✨: Colin SheaxBlack Reader

Summary🪄: Colin’s present for you can’t wait until Christmas morning

⚠️: mention of past naked hugging, use of a nickname (princess), pretty much all fluff

A/N🎙: Hi guys! So I’ve been seeing posts about the Soulful Hoeliday Collective created by @geminixevans​ @fineanddandy​ @cocobutterqwueen, @syntheticavenger​, @jamalflanagan​, @sunshinexsin​, & @afriendlyblackhottie and I wanted to participate (as to get out of my shy comfort zone and seeing that I’m finally in the Christmas spirit lol). Since I write using the mobile app, I’m not quite sure of the word count nor am I able to use the keep reading cut off (unless I’m just missing something) so apologies for that, and hope you guys like it☺️!

Lashes lazily fluttering against his lightly freckled cheeks, the corners of his mouth curled into a tired smile watching your shoulders sway to the low music as you neatly placed another present, along with some light blue tissue paper, in a separate gift bag covered in snowflakes.

Who would’ve thought Colin Shea; notable player, womanizer, himbo, whatever your term of choice would be smitten enough to actually be tied down? His friends and band mates definitely didn’t. Nor did the countless women expecting a call back the next day only to never hear from him again until they’d awkwardly meet in the grocery store, or at some party.

Even Colin himself didn’t think so, content with his bachelor lifestyle and having no responsibilities other than taking care of himself. That one night after bringing you back to his place though, something in him changed. Just as he was now, he smiled to himself waking up to your head on his bicep that next morning. Braids scattered along the wrinkled pillow and your pouted lips ghosting against his inner elbow. Instead of using Ally’s apartment to avoid your hopeful eyes as you suggested date ideas he knew he’d never agree to, he went over asking to borrow some of her coffee since he hadn’t gone to the store yet. Plus he knew she wasn’t using it with him having yet to replace her broken coffee pot.

Contrary to how she and most his friends thought, no this new Colin wasn’t because of the two hours you spent tangled in different positions and probably disturbing the other inhabitants on the floor—and maybe the floor below too. Well, not solely.

You had this infectious spirit that once you entered his life, he knew you’d be hard to let go. Not that he wanted to though. From your bright smile to the adorable way your nose scrunched when you laughed, Colin wanted you with him for as long as possible. He admittedly felt crazy having such strong emotions so early on, but he was addicted to what he knew about you so far and wanted to know so much more.

A year later and he was still addicted. Feining for you and your touch even if you were only apart for an hour.

“Look who’s awake,” you smirk over your shoulder hearing him groan as he stretched his limbs. “You know, when you suggested we wrap presents together I assumed you’d be helping too.” His tired chuckle hits you just as deep as his raspy voice.

“Sorry princess, guess I was still tired from the gig last night,” he replies moving to kiss up your neck to your cheek and finally tilting your head back to reach your vanilla lips before sitting beside you.

“It’s okay. You’re just in time for the actual wrapping portion,” you smile handing him the fresh roll of mistletoe covered wrapping paper. “I saved it for last since it takes up the most time.”

Carefully removing the glossy paper from its plastic covering, Colin watches you place the cream sweater and matching scarf you bought his mom in a cardboard box before effortlessly measuring, cutting, then folding the paper over the present until it was neatly wrapped with a shiny, red bow on top. You didn’t make it seem difficult, clearly it should be the same for him.

So just like you, he placed the plaid button up for his father in the box before cutting a long strip of paper he was sure would be long enough. Folding around the middle of the box was simple enough, but the ends left him ready to cancel the entire holiday after 10 minutes of trial and error.

How did you get the little triangles on yours again? And how was your paper so taut while his looked wrinkled and loose?

His frustrated sigh has you looking over from your third wrapped present to see him still struggling on his first. “Need some help?”

“We don’t have any more gift bags I can just put this in?”

“We do, but you’re halfway there! Your ends are just a tad bit long,” you reply cutting the ends so they were now about half the length they originally were. “Now you can press these in like this, then fold the top to sit on the bottom piece, and done! Think you can do the other half?”

“How ‘bout you take over the wrapping, and I’ll just hand you stuff when you need it?,” he suggests using the same charm that’s somehow gotten him out of trouble all these years.

The way you narrowed your eyes before softly laughing proves it still works.

“Next time you ask for my help with presents, I’m charging you plus interest.”

“Thank you princess, you’re amazing,” he smiles leaning over to peck along your jawline making your giggles strengthen.

“Yea yea, I’m only taking over because it’s already late and I gotta head back home.”

“You’re not staying?”

“Can’t. I’m supposed to hang out with Melissa tomorrow.”

Call him sappy, but he hated seeing you go. Especially when you’d have to leave late at night when anything could happen.

“She can pick you up here,” he states sliding behind you, wrapping his arm around your waist to slot you between his legs. “Orr, you can reschedule.”

“No that’ll be the third time I rescheduled—second because of you,” you laugh gently nudging his knee. “You can’t be the only person I hang out with Colin Shea.”

“Why not? I’m fun,” he whines tucking his face into your neck.

“Because your fun would probably include us never leaving this apartment if you had your way.”

“I mean…would that be so bad?”

“Colin-”

“I’m kidding,” he chuckles nipping your earlobe. “If I really had my way though, you’d be the first thing I see in the morning and the last I’d see at night.”

Finished with the last present, you turn to straddle his hips as your hands rest along the sides of his neck. Fingers gliding along the small hairs at his nape making him softly hum.

“Such the romantic.”

“And I’m not done yet,” he whispers, pecking your lips before his arm stretches under the colorfully lit tree across from you to retrieve a small grey box hidden behind one of your earlier gift bags.

“What’s this? Christmas isn’t until next week babes.”

“It couldn’t wait,” he shrugs watching your eyes twinkle untying the sparkly white ribbon to lift the lid. Lying on top of the square, cotton like material sat a red capital B with a silver baseball bat behind it making you softly gasp. Not in the way that you were surprised, but how a parent would react to their child gifting them a drawing of what looked like scribbles but was apparently something else.

Your quiet wow as you tried to appear grateful made it hard for Colin to hold back his laughs.

“Aw…um a Red Sox keychain! Thank you.”

“You’re welcome, but you should always look to make sure there’s nothing extra,” he chuckles. Your finger hooks in the clasp of the cold metal raising it until you see a silver key reflecting the overhead light as it gently twists back and forth.

“A mysterious key…”

“That opens my front door.” Your blank stare has him a bit nervous definitely expecting a different reaction. “I uh thought since you’re mostly over here that maybe you’d like not having to wait on me sometimes you know? Let yourself in. Get comfy. Maybe even have some stuff over-,”

“You’re sure?,” you ask. Eyes feeling watery holding the key in your lap.

“Of course I am. I meant it when I said I wanted to see you in the morning and at night. Plus I wouldn’t have to worry about you getting home safe since you’ll be here,” he smiles. “That is if you want.”

Of course with any big decision in your life, there was that anxiety filled voice of doubt that wondered if it wouldn’t work. If you both were moving too fast and this was a mistake. A catastrophic explosion of personalities waiting to happen.

But you loved Colin and knew he loved you too. Everything was great and you both were happy, so why not follow your heart?

“Okay.”

“O-Okay?”

“Okay, I want to move in,” you smile, thumb grazing over his plump bottom lip. “If you’ll still have me that is.”

“I’ll have you now. Later. Tomorrow. Three years from now,” he answers pecking your lips between each statement, pulling your body down to lie over his. “I love you too much to not.”

“I love you too Colin.”

Taglist: @fumbling-fanfics @honeydulcewrites @honeychicana @lady-olive-oil @themyscxiras @melinda-january @lovelymari4 @give-me-a-million-dollars-pls @bekinds @ladydmalfoy @maxcullen @curlyhairclub @plokyu23 @fullofmelaninsarcasmandepression @nunubug99 @felicity-x0 @ellixthea @jojolu @jnk-812 @captainsamwlsn @wildfirecracker @nina-sj @iammyownlover @chaneajoyyy @damnitaa @literaturefeen @bamondomesticity @scoop93535 @secretmysteriousperson @thesecretlifeofdaydreamss

✨Pairing✨: Chris EvansxBlack Reader

Summary🪄: Your son seems to be ready for his first haircut

⚠️: None, all fluff💕!

A/N🎙: This adorable prompt was requested by @allsilkandsatin (sorry for taking a while to get it out) but I hope you like it☺️!

“Y/N’s gonna be pissed,” Scott stated slightly shaking his head.

“No, she’s not….at least I hope not. Just hold him still.”

What started out as Chris adoringly watching little Angelo carefully brush his teeth from his spot against the doorframe quickly turned into a hairdresser’s worst nightmare when the three year old happened to find the shears his father used to trim his beard. He only left for three minutes tops to let his brother in, but apparently that was long enough for the toddler to cut the front part of his curly hair making it substantially uneven to the remaining strands on his head. While Chris looked a mere blink from a heart attack, Angelo just giggled. Toothpaste still around his mouth as he let the short pieces fall from his hand to the tile below.

“I didn’t know he could even use scissors.”

“Me either, and how did he know where they were?,” Chris sighs standing up to fully take in his work. Even though it was the same length all over, his hair still looked disheveled as if he’d rolled around on his head all day. “It still doesn’t look right. I’m gonna have to use the clippers.”

“He’s gonna let you use that on him?,” Scott asks shifting his youngest nephew so he could get his phone to use as a distraction if needed. So far he’d been fine, playing with the older man’s fingers and telling stories as Chris trimmed the best he could.

Thinking back to the first time Angelo saw him using the grey and silver clippers, he slightly cringed rubbing the back of his neck. His baby boy cried into your shoulder, afraid the unknown object would somehow hurt his dada, you both guessed. Ever since, he’d become nervous when hearing the buzzing metal and whine while typically trying to seek you out since Chris would be the one using them.

He was just hoping he wouldn’t get a worse reaction with the clippers being right against his head.

“Well, won’t know til we find out.”

———

Brushing away whatever little hairs remained on his shirt, he made it to the last step of the staircase just in time to see you enter the quiet house. Shopping bags in both hands as you greet him with a bright smile and your sweet as honey lips.

“How was everything?”

“Good! Yea no accidents at all.”

“You idiot, why’d ya mention accidents?,” he thought, mentally kicking himself. “H-How’d everything go with you?”

“Good! Your mom says hi, and I found an outfit for Lolo to wear in our pictures on Saturday,” you smile pulling the miniature red and black flannel shirt with adjoining dark jeans from the large, paper bag. “And look! Baby timbs!”

“Woww, so adorable,” he nervously smiled. You continued on about what you and he would wear, saying something about aesthetics and matching, but he couldn’t hear you over his pulse thumping in his ears. How could he forget about the family pictures this weekend? Something you’d been dying to do since Angelo was one, but due to Chris’ back to back filming schedule had to get postponed until this year.

And now thanks to a pair of shears, his son would practically be bald. Scott was right, you definitely were gonna kill him.

“Where’s Angelo? I want to make sure it fits.”

“No!,” Chris quickly answers blocking you from going up the stairs and thoroughly confusing you as to why you couldn’t see your son.

“I mean no as in…he’s sleeping. Yea I just got him settled before you pulled in.”

“Oh. Ok, well I’ll just put these in his room then.”

“Orrr, we can sit down, relax. Maybe even take a nap too,” he suggests bending down to lift you over his shoulder leaving the bags of clothes by the stairs as he carried your giggling body to the couch.

“Why are you acting so weird?”

“I’m not being weird, I’m just looking out for you. All those stores I know you’re tired and feet are killin’ ya so rest,” he smiles pecking your lips before comfortably smothering your body into the dark cushions. “Plus when’s the last time we napped together?”

“We sleep together every night you’re here Chris.”

“Yea but naps though…they just hit different,” he mumbles against your chest. From the furious taps upstairs, and slightly heavier ones following, his eyes shoot open knowing what’s soon to come.

“Mommy!,” Angelo shouts trying to get down the stairs as fast as he could while still being careful. Chris would try to keep you pinned, but you’d already slid from under him excited to meet your mini me at the bottom of the stairs. Plus it was impossible to hide something like that from you, so he might as well get it over with.

“Hi my-Lolo?”

Leaping into your arms playfully hanging from your neck, your hand immediately rubs against the barely there strands feeling soft pricks against your palm.

“Heyyy Y/N,” Scott smiles meeting you both at the bottom immediately after. “You look gorgeous as always.”

“Thank you, now will you or your brother please explain why my son no longer has hair?,” you ask looking between the two men who were clearly nervous.

There was a moment everyone just looked at each other in silence. Angelo playing with your necklace while his father shifted from one leg to the other.

“A-Angelo was brushing his teeth in our bathroom and I went downstairs to let Scott in right? I promise I was only gone for a couple minutes, but when I came back the front of his hair was short and I tried to fix it but it didn’t look right so I kinda had to cut it all off,” he explains in a rush of words you’d describe as a word vomit. His accent somehow getting thicker and making the little boy in your arms giggle.

“I know you’re probably pissed, but it’ll grow back!”

“Chris-,”

“And-And the pictures’ll still look good!”

“Chris-,”

“Or he can always wear a hat?”

“Chris I’m not mad,” you laugh placing a hand over his mouth so you could finally talk.

“No?,” he asks, voice muffled and eyebrow raised.

“Well now that I see my brother is safe from harm, I’m gonna leave you guys to it,” Scott smiles giving a quick hug to Chris then you. “Please don’t change your mind and decide to kill him though. Poor guy tried his best.”

His poor attempt of a whisper instantly makes you grin shaking your head. Your husband nodding his head in agreement behind him flashing his most charming smile as to try to further persuade you.

“And no more experimenting with hairstyles,” he pointedly directs at a grinning Angelo before kissing his cheek. Exchanging “love you’s” with the family of three before heading to his own place.

“So you’re really not mad?,” Chris asks taking the little boy from your arms, who admittedly was starting to wear you down.

“No, it’s just hair it’ll grow back.”

“…Babe, I distinctly remember you crying the other night looking at Angelo’s baby book talking about how his hair was so curly and cute, and you hoped he never got rid of it.”

“Okay first off, that was an extra sensitive night for me I even cried at the GEICO gecko. But I wasn’t crying because of his hair, it was just the thought of him growing up so fast.”

Meeting his son’s twinkling brown eyes, Chris can’t help but softly smile smoothing down the soft hairs on the little boy’s head. Sometimes he too would just stop and stare as he played or even slept, wondering how it felt as if you’d both just found out yesterday you were having a boy. Yet here he was, nearly ready for pre-school and with so much personality that reminded Chris daily of the two of you. “Yea, before we know it he’ll be driving.”

“And he already looks older with his new haircut,” you pout hugging your husband’s waist adoringly gazing at your son. “You like your haircut Lolo?”

“Mhm!,” he nods before lightly tapping Chris’ head, which now looked identical to his own, “Like daddy!”

“You’re right bubs! Now you’re daddy’s mini me.”

Taglist: @fumbling-fanfics @honeychicana @lady-olive-oil @themyscxiras @melinda-january @lovelymari4 @give-me-a-million-dollars-pls @bekinds @ladydmalfoy @maxcullen @curlyhairclub @plokyu23 @fullofmelaninsarcasmandepression @nunubug99 @felicity-x0 @ellixthea @jojolu @jnk-812 @captainsamwlsn @wildfirecracker @nina-sj @iammyownlover @chaneajoyyy @damnitaa @literaturefeen @bamondomesticity @scoop93535 @secretmysteriousperson @thesecretlifeofdaydreamss

✨Pairing✨: mob!Ari LevinsonxBlack Reader

Summary🪄: He stops in your restaurant everyday, and both of you can’t wait.

⚠️: Rude customer, fluff💕

A/N: I really like the mob AU idea from some stories I’ve read here and I’ve always wanted to write my own imagine with that plot and finally had my own idea for a little series I could do with it! I hope you guys like it☺️!

“Looks like your friend is here,” your co-worker, Sherry, smiles playfully nudging your arm a mere seconds before the bell on the door dings of his arrival. Nine o’clock, as usual, sitting at one of the tables in front of the wide window with today’s newspaper to his right and phone in hand typing away at the screen. Today you see he decided to sport your favorite: his navy blue suit paired with a white button down underneath partially opened towards the top that you could see the gold medallion he typically wore. His black shoes shining even under the table from the overhead light hitting them just right.

The few months you’ve seen him come in, he never failed to look anything less than dapper. Then again that was usually the dress code for anyone coming into the restaurant, always well-groomed and flashing their wealth whether physically in the luxury brands and jewelry they wore or sometimes vocally if they were bold and arrogant enough.

That’s where he differed though.

There was always a small sense of intimidation with those you served having and coming from much less, but not with him. He was so down to earth and seemed genuinely interested when asking about your day or your weekend plans. Just being in his presence brought a comfort that you reluctantly had to leave whenever you had to wait on someone else or it was time for one of his meetings.

“Good morning Mr. Levinson. What can I get you?,” you smile, notepad and pen ready for his order. You probably didn’t need it since he tended to order the same thing every morning: coffee, black, with a couple slices of toast and some butter on the side. “What can I say, I like what I like,” he shrugged with a small chuckle when you pointed it out in one of your earlier conversations.

“Good morning, and I thought we talked about you calling me that?,” he smirks looking up from the sports section spread out on the table.

“I know, but I’m supposed to be-,”

“Professional. I understand angel.”

And there was that little nickname making your insides flutter and your body heat from being flustered. It’s also what made Sherry term him as your “friend” passing by last week and hearing the endearing name pass his pink lips.

“I’ll just take coffee today. Can’t stay as long as I used to.”

There’s a small, disappointed pang to your heart that you wouldn’t be able to talk with him like you usually could. Hardly anyone showed up in the morning, mostly coming for lunch and dinner so there were plenty of times he would invite you to sit with him, keeping him company for just a short while before you had to appear as if you were working.

It didn’t take any time for you at all to retrieve one of the coffee pots from the many coffee makers before returning to his table carefully pouring the strong smelling liquid into the white porcelain cup sat on top of the miniature plate.

“Anything else I can get you?”

“No this is perfect, thank you. You always take care of me angel,” he smiles blowing the steam from the cup as the praise hits just enough to have you bashfully biting your lower lip to hide your giggle.

“Y-You’re welcome. Let me know if you need anything mister- I mean Ari.”

“Um excuse me?,” a customer calls snapping his fingers from across the room. “I’ve been here for 10 minutes and haven’t even gotten a water yet.”

“That was a lie,” Ari thought slowly placing his cup down giving the man a once over. He saw him walk in all haughty dripping with self entitlement maybe five minutes ago, yet he has the nerve to get angry. And with you of all people. He wasn’t even sitting in your section, so really the impatient man wasn’t your responsibility. Knowing you though, he wasn’t surprised to watch you walk over apologizing to the undeserving, weak Wall Street minion trying your best to satisfy his needs.

“What else can I get you besides water?”

“No, I don’t want water. Get me a coffee with three creams and one sugar. The good kind not the fake stuff in the packet, along with the chef’s omelette. And try to have it out to me before you close,” the older, bald man orders sliding his menu to the side, completely ignoring your outstretched hand trying to grab it, before answering his phone.

Your quiet, “yes sir,” along with a heavy sigh had Ari boiling at how someone could mistreat such an innocent and sweet person like you just trying to do their job. Plus the annoying man just seemed to talk louder the longer his conversation ran interrupting Ari’s peaceful reading.

A few seconds later, you returned with his coffee prepared just as he requested, and then again with his food smelling just as delicious as it looked.

“About time,” he grumbled before tucking his napkin beneath the collar of his wrinkled shirt and picking up his fork and knife already slicing through the folded egg.

“Let me know if-,”

“What is this?!,” he asks dropping his utensils on the table that ultimately clattered all the way to the black floor. “I didn’t want onions!”

“I’m sorry sir, but you didn’t say-,”

“Can you do anything right?!,” he sighs, “Guess they just hire anybody today.”

“Would you like me to get you another one without them? Or something else?,” you ask doing the best you could to hide your annoyance and frustration.

“No, I want you to sit out front and look pretty,” he sarcastically retorts, “what do you think?”

“Let me get the chef for you,” you reply moving towards the kitchen.

“You do that.”

Ari had seen and heard enough.

———

“Alright, what seems to be the problem?,” the chef, Frank, asks following you out to the dining room floor. To your surprise though, the customer was no longer there, just Ari drinking the last of his coffee before folding his newspaper.

“I thought you said there was a customer mad about his order?”

“Oh that guy? He seemed to change his mind while you were back there,” Ari answers digging in his pocket for his wallet. “Actually started to like onions after the first bite.” Sure enough looking at his plate, it was completely cleaned without a crumb in sight as if he licked those away too.

“Huh, well good for him. No issue after all,” Frank sighs patting your shoulder before returning to his position in front of the stove. You’re still left confused, wondering what made him change his mind after getting so angry over something so minuscule. However not for long as Ari hands you some folded up bills along with his ticket in the black, leather folder. Standing so close and being face to face with his chest, you can smell the deep patchouli mixed with citrus wafting off his clothes that has you suddenly weak feeling as if you need something to lean on.

“S-So um same time tomorrow?,” you nervously chuckle trying to rid the melting feeling from your head and legs.

“Afraid not. I have a full day tomorrow starting at eight, so I can’t stop by,” he answers, noticing the slight dim in your usual glow that makes warmth spread across his whole chest.

“I am having a party for the opening of my office tomorrow night that I’d love for you to come to. You can even bring a friend or friends.”

“Oh, um okay. Yea I think I can make it,” you shyly smile making a soft one spread across his bearded face as well.

“If you can’t or need a ride, just give me a call,” he replies handing you a matte black business card with only his name and number in a simple yet bold, gold font.

“Will do.”

Just as he strides towards the door, thick back muscles perfectly showcased from the tailored suit, your voice calls him back walking up to him holding out the money he left, no longer folded.

“You left $500,” you whisper, “I think this is meant for something else.”

The slightly calloused yet also soft feel of his hands manually closing yours as he leans in next to your ear along with the gentle rub of his beard on your cheek has a short, surprised gasp escaping your lips that you’ll surely be embarrassed about later.

“I know what it was meant for angel,” he answers. Deepened, husky voice vibrating your eardrum with his whisper. Backing away, there’s a smug grin on his face at how shy and flustered he has you. You didn’t see it though, currently unable to meet his eyes as you focused on your breathing and the floor beneath your feet.

“You have a good day Y/N.”

“Thanks. Y-You too Ari.” Leaving you with a small wave, your eyes follow him through the window until he’s no longer in view and you can somewhat regain your normal breathing. You tried to distract yourself with cleaning and getting ready for the impending lunch rush as you pick up his discarded cup carrying it to the other table that once sat the disgruntled customer to collect his plate and cup also.

Something catches your eye though at the top corner of the white, square plate that you know wasn’t there earlier.

Your finger delicately glides along the small crack until the chipped piece gives way leaving a v shaped gap about an inch long in its place. On the table cloth just above the plate was a single red droplet while next to the gap the same red stain seemed to have been spread a bit leaving behind more so of a line. There was no ketchup nor hot sauce on the table that could cause the stain so you couldn’t help but wonder,

“Is this blood?”

Taglist: @fumbling-fanfics @honeychicana @lady-olive-oil @themyscxiras @melinda-january @lovelymari4 @ladydmalfoy @maxcullen @literaturefeen @damnitaa @curlyhairclub @plokyu23 @fullofmelaninsarcasmandepression @nunubug99 @felicity-x0 @ellixthea @jojolu @jnk-812 @brwn-sgr @captainsamwlsn @wildfirecracker @nina-sj @iammyownlover @chaneajoyyy @scoop93535 @secretmysteriousperson