The Year I Turned 25 • JK + AT (3/10)
SYNOPSIS: Grammy-winning R&B artist Y/N Y/LN, 25, is closing out the North American leg of her tour, riding high on the success of her sophomore album "The Year I Turned 24" - a raw, emotional project born from her public breakup with an NFL player. As she prepares for six weeks in Europe before the international leg of her tour, she's determined to have her own "hot girl summer," yet she’s unaware that she's about to get entangled with not one but two professional footballers - Jules Koundé and Aurélien Tchouaméni - sparking new public interest in her love life and forcing her to confront her fears about dating athletes again.
PAIRINGS: Jules Koundé x Y/N Y/LN (fc: Ayra Starr) x Aurélien Tchouaméni
WARNINGS: cursing, football b.s., not so glamorous life of a celebrity, mentions of mental illness/misogyny/slut shaming/cheating, drug use (marijuana), drinking, rotational dating, eventual smut, paragon partners/polyamory — 18+ only
TAGLIST: @irishmanwhore, @sucredreamer, @judesvirtual, @saturnville, @peyiswriting, @greedyjudge2, @pepfectionary, @alika-4466, @julescpu, @lettersofgold, @hopefulromantic1, @a-moment-captured, @serpenttines-library, @f1-football-fiend, @purplelewlew, @enretrogue, @judesprxncess, @yeea-nah @127hydrangeas, @sunfairyy, @pinkcatcus, @muglermami, @bbgkoo, @greyishbach @sinflowersugar @cranberryjulce
CHAPTER 3: Another One, Thank You!
Hamburg greeted YN with unexpected sunshine and a hotel room with a view of the harbor. She'd barely finished unpacking when her phone buzzed:
Aurélien 🌹 Settled in? I'm taking you somewhere nice tonight
YN Define 'nice' 🤔
Aurélien You'll see. Wear something that shows off what you want me to touch later 😏
YN's mouth went dry. The man did not believe in subtle flirting.
YN And if I want you to touch everything?
Aurélien Then why did you wanna get dinner? We could've just chilled in my room
"Touché," she muttered.
Her phone buzzed again, this time the group chat:
Jules 🇫🇷 You good YN?
Aurélien 🌹 Taking YN to Heimat tonight
Jules 🇫🇷 Good choice. Those views 👌🏾 Treat her well but not too well, I need her tomorrow 😌
YN I'm right here! 🙄
Aurélien 🌹 We know 😈
These men are going to be the death of me. She was about to respond when an Instagram notification caught her eye:
deuxmoi: SPOTTED: Grammy winner YN_YLN with French football star Jules Koundé at froyo spot in Düsseldorf! A source says they looked "very cozy" 👀 [Fan photo attached]
view all comments...
popculture_daily: The way he's looking at her though! 🔥 ynglobaldom: MY QUEEN WINNING chartdata: Her power>>> gossipgirl2024: Wait didn't you say you saw her with TWO French players? Drop the tea sis
Shit. I have to keep this lowkey.
For what? her intrusive thoughts challenged. Men get seen with different women all the time. Did Damari hide his fun?
That makes you no better than him! her rational side countered. Keep it under wraps.
She had to agree — the potential scandal of being seen with both of them...
Though part of her wanted to say fuck it. Why should she hide?
"Because being famous is annoying sometimes," she muttered, unpacking her suitcase and arranging her outfits in the closet. She plugged in her essential oil diffuser — lavender to calm her nerves — and lined up her skincare on the marble bathroom counter.
The challenge: what to wear for dinner with Aurélien? Something that said "I'm sexy but not desperate for dick" even though she was, in fact, kind of desperate for his. After twenty minutes of trying on different options, she settled on a black silk slip dress that hit mid-thigh – classy but with enough potential to make his eyes darken.
A quick shower to freshen up, then she wrapped herself in the hotel's fluffy robe and started her getting-ready playlist. Her favorite songs filled the room as she did her makeup, singing along while blending her eyeshadow:
"I might kill my ex, not the best idea… His new girlfriend's next, how'd I get here?"
She switched to Beyoncé as she curled her hair: "I'm warning who I bring to this dinner…"
How appropriate, she thought, pinning half her curls up to show off her neck.
By 8PM, she was applying a final coat of lipgloss when a knock echoed through the suite. Her heart, and pussy, jumped.
She opened the door to find Aurélien looking edible in a fitted black button-down and slacks. His eyes did that slow drag over her body that made her feel like prey - in the best way.
"Beautiful," he said, his signature smirk appearing. "Ready?"
"Let me grab my bag."
His hand found the small of her back as they walked to the elevator - always touching, always claiming space.
Heimat had good lighting and harbor views, and their corner table was intimate without trying too hard. Aurélien pulled out her chair, then sat close enough that his knee pressed against hers.
"So," he reached for the wine list, "besides being an incredible singer and looking gorgeous, what else should I know about YN?"
"You tell me what you want to know."
"Everything." No hesitation. His directness made her flush.
Over wine and appetizers, she learned he was obsessed with basketball ("Knicks till I die, but Lakers when they're good"), played the piano, and had strong opinions about American culture.
His hand had migrated to her thigh, but his touch wasn't purely sexual – he squeezed gently when she talked about her music, traced patterns when she mentioned her mom, and pulled back when she tensed discussing her past.
"That's why the Browns are gonna have a trash season," he said when Damari came up.
"You follow American football?"
"Enough to know your ex is gonna be riding the bench," Aurélien said simply. "But his loss is my gain."
"Our gain," she corrected.
"Ah yes, can't forget Jules." He grinned.
The conversation flowed easily - from childhood dreams to current goals, favorite books to worst dates. He was surprisingly funny, dropping deadpan jokes that had her snorting into her wine.
"Did you know," he said seriously, "that Jules sleepwalks?"
"No way."
"Once found him trying to make a sandwich in his sleep. Completely naked."
By dessert, she'd learned more about him than she expected - how his eyes crinkled when he really smiled, how he gestured with his hands when excited about a topic, how his thumb would stroke her skin absently while he listened.
"Want to take a walk?" he suggested after paying. "The harbor's pretty at night."
"You just want to get handsy."
"Always." That smirk again. "But I also want to explore with you."
She raised an eyebrow. "Explore what exactly?"
His hand found her lower back again. "Whatever you want, ma belle."
The harbor lights danced on the water as they walked, Aurélien's hand never leaving her waist. He stopped at a quieter spot, turning her to face him.
"Been wanting to do this properly," he murmured, cradling her face. His kiss was different from the hungry ones he usually gave - slow, deliberate, commanding in its patience. He took his time exploring her mouth until her knees went weak.
When he pulled back, she couldn't help the foolish grin spreading across her face.
"Look at that smile," he teased, thumb brushing her bottom lip. "Cute."
"Shut up," she rolled her eyes, still grinning.
"Would it be crazy if I asked you to spend the night?"
Her first instinct was yes, but then memories of Jules from last night flooded back. Did this make her… a whore? Going from one man's dick to potentially another's?
Girl, who cares? her intrusive thoughts chimed in. It's YOUR hot girl summer.
"I should be honest," she started. "Jules and I…"
"I know," he said softly. "Saw you both in the elevator, remember? Look, this is a lot - physically, emotionally. We go at your pace."
She nodded slowly. "Then… yes. I'd like to stay."
They swung by her hotel for essentials - bonnet, skincare, tomorrow's clothes (and maybe some sexy underwear, just in case).
The Westin Elbphilharmonie towered over the other side of the harbor, all glass and waves meant to mirror the water below. Aurélien's suite was minimalist luxury - cream furnishings, huge windows, and a balcony that made the city look like scattered stars.
"Make yourself at home," he said, taking her overnight bag.
Her heart raced. No turning back now.
Aurélien set her overnight bag on the chaise while YN slipped off her sandals, placing her purse on the bedside table.
"Ever seen Pineapple Express?" he asked, scrolling through the hotel's movie selection.
"Obviously. I'm not uncultured."
His laugh echoed off the suite's walls. "Good. Because I quote this movie way too much."
He turned the movie on and then made his way to the kitchenette - his gait full of unwavering swagger - to place a bag of popcorn in the microwave.
They settled into comfortable silence on the bed, sharing buttery popcorn while Seth Rogen descended into drug dealer chaos. Around the time James Franco started saying "Thug Life," YN decided to start her nighttime routine.
Opening her overnight bag, she grabbed her essentials: makeup wipes, CeraVe cleanser, toner, essence, vitamin C serum, moisturizer, and face oil. But as she started removing her makeup in the bathroom, the anxiety hit like a wave.
Whore. Slut. Can't even wait a day between men.
Her hands trembled as she tried to remove her lashes. The DeuxMoi post kept flashing in her mind - what if people found out about both of them? She wasn't really a whore, was she? Just... exploring. Finding herself. Why did that make her bad?
"YN?" Aurélien's soft knock startled her. "You good? Been in there a while."
"Yes," she squeaked, but her reflection showed panic in her eyes. She gripped the counter, trying to count breaths like her therapist taught her.
The door opened. Aurélien took one look at her and his whole demeanor shifted - the cocky swagger replaced by gentle concern.
"Panic attack?" He stepped closer, fingers finding her pulse point. His protector mode was sweet, though she wished she wasn't seeing it like this.
No shit, she thought, but couldn't speak.
Without a word, he reached for a shower cap, carefully removing each bobby pin from her curls. "Sit," he guided her to the toilet seat.
The shower started running, steam slowly filling the room. He disappeared, returning with her bonnet.
First the shower cap, then the satin bonnet, his movements impossibly gentle for such large hands as he placed them on her head, ensuring each tendril of hair was securely covered.
His eyes met hers. "Can I take off your clothes?" She gave him a look. "It's for the shower," he explained. "Warm showers will help."
She nodded, letting him care for her in this unexpected way.
Aurélien's hands reached for the zipper of her dress. His usual intensity was replaced by something softer - each movement careful, protective.
"Arms up," he murmured, and she complied, letting him pull the silk over her head. Instead of his usual hungry gaze, his eyes held only concern.
This man who looks like he could break hearts for sport, her rational thoughts marveled, is treating me like I'm made of glass.
He unhooked her bra with practiced ease, but there was nothing sexual in the way he helped her step out of her underwear. His touch remained clinical, respectful.
"Temperature good?" he asked, guiding her toward the steam.
She nodded, watching as he rolled up his sleeves to test the water himself. This was a different Aurélien from the one who smirked and made suggestive comments, who exuded raw sexuality. This was the big brother who protected his siblings, the friend who looked out for Jules.
"You don't have to stay," she managed.
"I know." He helped her into the shower. "But I want to."
Maybe, her rational thoughts whispered, we've underestimated him. Maybe there's more here than just physical attraction.
The warm water began to calm her racing heart, and with it came a new understanding: Aurélien Tchouaméni was full of surprises.
"Can I join you?" he asked softly.
She bit her bottom lip, nodding. Her eyes couldn't help but follow as he undressed, appreciating how the muscles in his chest flexed, how his dark skin seemed to glow in the bathroom's soft light, and how gorgeous his penis and testicles were when his boxers fell to the floor. But where normally he'd smirk at her obvious appreciation, now he remained focused on her well-being.
He stepped into the shower, reaching for the hotel's body wash. The scent of lavender filled the steam as he worked the soap between his palms, then started with her shoulders. His strong fingers found knots she didn't even know she had, drawing a contented sigh from her lips.
Working down her arms, then her hips, his touch remained therapeutic rather than teasing. He squatted to massage her thighs and calves, his hands firm but gentle on her tired muscles.
"Better?" he asked, looking up at her through wet lashes.
The anxiety was melting away under his careful attention, replaced by something warmer, deeper than just attraction.
Oh, she thought. This could be dangerous in a whole different way.
YN woke to Aurélien's soft snores in her ear, his arm heavy around her waist. His t-shirt swallowed her whole, smelling like his cologne. Last night after the shower, she'd barely managed to pull it on before passing out, emotionally drained.
At least I didn't drool, she thought, becoming very aware of his morning wood pressing against her ass. She stretched - trying to reach her phone on the nightstand.
His arm tightened, grinding closer. "Ne bouge pas, ma belle," (Don't move, beautiful) he muttered, voice impossibly deeper and raspier in the morning. His stubble scratched her cheek as he nuzzled closer.
Even sleeping he's cute as fuck, both her thoughts agreed.
She rolled her eyes despite smiling. Being little spoon was nice, but she needed her phone. One more stretch and - success!
7:30 AM. Notifications lit up her screen:
Mama 💕 Baby girl your crystals told me you had anxiety last night. Did you use that lavender oil I packed? Mercury isn't even in retrograde so this is weird. Light some sage when you can 🌟✨ Also use protection! 😘
Big Kyle You good? Haven't heard from you. These European men treating you right or do I need to catch a flight? 🤨 Send me your location just in case. Love you kid
LewLew Bean Hope Hamburg's treating you well. Saw that DeuxMoi post, don't stress about it. People always talk, let them. Roscoe says hi! [photo of his dog attached]
She smiled at their different approaches - her mom's spiritual advice, Big Kyle's protectiveness, and Lewis just being... Lewis.
Last night's panic attack embarrassed her; breaking down in front of Aurélien wasn't exactly hot girl summer behavior. But seeing his gentler side, how naturally he switched from sexy to protective…
His snoring hitched, arm pulling her closer. "Dors, bébé." (Sleep, baby)
Man has a point, she thought, putting it back on the charger.
YN snuggled deeper into Aurélien's embrace, letting his snores lull her into that peaceful space between sleep and wakefulness. It reminded her of how Damari used to—
No.
No more thoughts about that untalented bench warmer. Her summer was for better things now. Like the way Aurélien's arm tightened around her whenever she moved. Or how Jules' kisses made her dizzy. Or whatever other adventures Europe had in store.
Four weeks left. The thought nagged at her. Maybe she should make the most of it - take a little detour before the semi-finals? Visit Lewis early, see what Silverstone was about? Or maybe hit up another city first, then see Lewis?
What about our French boys? her intrusive thoughts demanded. Can't just leave them hanging!
But she wouldn't be leaving, not really. Just… expanding her horizons. She'd be back for the semis, back to see which of them could make her toes curl faster. Besides, wasn't that the whole point of hot girl summer? Freedom to do whatever - and whoever - she wanted?
I'll tell them later, she decided. After I figure out where I want to go.
Aurélien mumbled something in French against her neck, pulling her closer.
But right now, she thought, closing her eyes, right now I'm exactly where I want to be.
______________________________________________
The Hamburg Arena hummed with pre-match energy as YN made her way through the VIP corridors. She spotted Aurélien talking to Cama, catching his wink when she waved.
Then she saw Jules - or rather, felt him before she saw him. He rounded the corner in his pre-match warmup gear, dreads pulled back, all focused energy until his eyes landed on her. That intense game face melted into a smile that made her legs wobble.
"There's my girl," he said, closing the distance between them. His hand found her waist immediately, guiding her toward a private alcove. There was something different about match-day Jules — a coiled energy that made him seem even more dangerous than usual.
"Are you doing okay?" His eyebrows creased with worry. "Auré told me you had an anxiety attack last night."
"Wow, you guys run your mouth too much," she snapped without thinking.
Jules let out a dark chuckle that made her stomach flip. "What part of 'our girl' don't you realize, YN? Of course, we're gonna talk about things regarding your well-being. Now, answer the question: are you good now?" His hands rubbed up and down her arms. YN nodded. "Open that pretty mouth of yours and use your words," Jules said, voice dropping into an authoritative tone that made her swoon.
Okay Daddy Jules, her intrusive thoughts purred. Oui, oui...
"Yes."
His grin was wicked. "I missed you. Did you miss me or did you have too much fun with Auré?"
"Yes, only a little bit though."
"Only a little bit?" His eyebrows rose. "Well, I guess I have to change your mind then." His lips captured hers again, one hand cradling her face. "You. Should. Spend. The. Night. With. Me." Each word punctuated with a kiss.
"I like that but..." she managed as his lips found her collarbone.
"But?" Those brown eyes looked up at her.
"I'm catching a flight... to London."
His eyebrows furrowed. "Want to visit your other man?"
"Nah, nah. Lewis is a friend. Yes he's fine as fuck but I don't do older guys. Not my type."
Jules chuckled. "Yeah, that's cool. Are you leaving me and Auré?"
"No, never, at least not right now. Four weeks from now, yes." She wrapped her arms around his neck. "But it'll be two days max. Hell, I don't think I'll even be there for the race. Just wanted to drop in and catch up and see his dog. Have you seen pictures of Roscoe? He's a cutie."
"I follow Lewis on Instagram. He's the GOAT."
Of course he does, she thought.
"But I'm happy you're coming back. It's good to explore different cities. Broaden your horizons." He waggled his eyebrows before kissing her again. "You told Auré?"
"No, not yet, but instead of one-on-one dinner... maybe something for the... uh... three of us?" His look said we're doing this? "No, not like that...." His eyes widened. "Maybe. We'll see. Just figured it'd be great to talk and chill before I'm off to London."
"Sounds good to me. Let's go before Coach has a conniption wondering where I am."
They walked back toward the locker room. Players and staff bustled around them, some nodding at Jules, others pretending not to notice how close he stayed to her. Outside the locker room doors, he turned to face her. The intensity in his eyes was different now - part pre-match focus, part something else entirely.
"See you after the match?"
"Of course."
He leaned down for one more kiss, this one slower, like he was trying to memorize the feel of her lips. Then he pulled back, that game-face sliding back into place as he disappeared into the locker room.
YN headed toward her seat, trying to focus on the match ahead and not on how dinner with both of them would go.
Focus on football, she told herself. But even she knew that was a lost cause.
______________________________________________
The match ended in a 0-0 draw against Portugal, and YN's two baguettes were visibly frustrated, discussing the game in rapid-fire French across the restaurant table.
"L'attaque était horrible!" (The attack was horrible!) Jules complained, stabbing at his salmon.
"On aurait dû gagner," (We should have won) Aurélien added, gesturing with his fork. "Ces putains d'arbitres..." (These fucking referees...)
They caught themselves, noticing YN quietly eating her steak.
"Sorry, belle," Aurélien switched to English. "How's your food?"
"Really good," she cut another piece of her medium-rare steak. "Though y'all are scary when you're mad."
"Not mad," Jules corrected. "Frustrated. Big difference."
"Speaking of differences," she started, "I'm heading to London tomorrow."
Aurélien took a sip of Coca-Cola. "To visit your man Lewis?"
Jules giggled - he'd made the same assumption earlier.
"He's just a friend," YN snapped. "And if he wasn't, I thought you didn't care anyway."
Aurélien glanced at Jules. "Son attitude? Elle est sérieuse?" (Her attitude? Is she serious?)
"Elle fait sa bratty," (She's being bratty) Jules replied as he spread his legs wider.
Their gazes cut to YN.
"My bad, belle," Aurélien said, making her smile. "You coming back?"
"To y'all - yes."
Aurélien's signature smirk appeared. "I like the sound of that."
They continued eating, YN appreciating the space across the table, though their long legs sandwiched hers underneath. When dessert came around, they split a chef sampler that included the best cheesecake YN ever had in her life - sorry mama!
As usual, the boys paid the bill and the walk back to her hotel was comfortable, both men flanking her sides as they strolled through Hamburg's evening streets. In the elevator, Jules pressed her floor while Aurélien's hand found its usual spot on her lower back.
They walked her to her door and YN reached up on her tip-toes to kiss Aurélien goodbye, but he gently pushed her back down.
"Aren't you gonna invite us in?" The hell?
"Yeah, we have to discuss something," Jules added.
YN glanced between them. "About? I have to pack, boys."
"We know and we'll even help." Aurélien said.
"Just five minutes," Jules promised.
"Max," added Aurélien.
YN muttered "okay" and let them in, Jules closing the door behind them.
"Your attitude's been trash lately," Aurélien started.
"What the hell?"
"If we're gonna be doing this, we shouldn't get snappy with each other. That only makes things worse. We know that seeing all the shit on the blogs is tough but there's a better way to voice your frustration," Jules said.
"Especially since it deals with all three of us," Aurélien added.
Uhn-uhn, not them giving you an intervention! her intrusive thoughts said.
Yeah, who do they think they are - you don't pay them to read you to filth like this, her rational thoughts agreed.
"Now hold on a second–"
"Let us finish, chérie," Jules held up a hand. "This is why you had that panic attack? The bullshit on the blogs?" Both sets of eyes bore into her until she nodded. "'Member what we said about using your words?"
I know this nigga is not...
"Yes - I had a panic attack because of that. Because of what may happen if they found out that I'm also hanging out with Aurélien."
The boys exchanged words in French. She really needed to get on her Zoom on Duolingo...
"Maybe you should hang out with one of us then? If you're scared of–" Jules started.
"No!" she surprised even herself. "We're not - I don't want to do that. I like Aurélien."
"Oh, belle," he said cockily, then sobered. "If it worries you though, it might be best. I don't want you to have another panic attack."
"We just have to be careful, okay?" she suggested. "Just be mindful of our surroundings. I don't want to stop hanging out with you, Aurélien. Really."
More French consultation, then Jules: "Okay, if you think that's best. We just be careful then."
"So maybe no more matches?" Aurélien said. Before YN could protest, he continued, "because they will keep trying to figure out who you're with, so no more matches and we hang out in each other's rooms. Sounds good?"
"Good," Jules said.
"Fine," YN replied defiantly, folding her arms.
Aurélien kissed his teeth. "Your fucking attitude."
"I swear," Jules shook his head. "We may have to do something about it."
"We might," Aurélien agreed, their gazes turning hungry. YN gulped.
"Take a seat on the bed, chérie," Jules commanded. YN remained frozen. "What did I say?" The bass in his voice made her sit immediately on the edge.
"Take off your shoes then scoot up to the headboard," Aurélien said. Again she froze until his arched eyebrow basically said I know you heard me loud and clear.
She did as told, removing her mules and scooting back against the headboard. Jules and Aurélien toed off their sneakers, the soft thuds against the floor echoing in the room. She couldn't quite believe what was happening. The way they moved — their confidence, the unspoken understanding between them — made her breath catch in her throat.
Jules was the first to climb onto the bed, taking his place on her left. Aurélien followed, settling on her right. They were close enough that their warmth seeped into her skin, their combined presence intoxicating.
"You can back out at any time," Jules murmured, his voice low and soothing as his hand rested lightly on her knee. "We won’t push you to do anything you don’t want."
"Whatever you want," Aurélien added.
YN swallowed, trying to calm the swirl of emotions in her chest. She didn’t feel pressured — just overwhelmed in the best way possible. "Just kissing…for right now," she said softly, her voice barely above a whisper. Because anything besides that, I think I might combust...
Both men nodded, their acceptance of her boundaries making her exhale in relief.
Jules leaned in first, tilting her chin gently with his fingers. His lips brushed against hers, warm and soft, the kiss starting slow. YN sighed into him, her hands hesitantly resting on his chest. Jules then deepened the kiss, his thumb caressing her cheek, coaxing small, breathy moans from her lips.
Aurélien’s hand slid up her thigh, staying over her clothes but sending sparks through her body. She broke the kiss with Jules, turning toward Aurélien, who was already leaning in. His kiss was firmer, more demanding, his hand coming up to cradle the back of her neck as he took control. YN moaned into his mouth, her body tingling as his thumb traced slow circles against her nape.
The feel of both their hands on her, their energy so different yet equally electrifying, had her melting. Jules pressed a kiss to the side of her neck while Aurélien nibbled gently on her lower lip, pulling away just enough to murmur against her mouth, "You know I should spank you for talking to me like that at the restaurant, don’t you?"
YN’s eyes widened. His tone was teasing, but the heat in his gaze said he meant every word.
Aurélien smirked as he kissed her again, this time slower, savoring the moment. "But I’ll save that for another time," he added, his words a rumble against her lips.
That sounds like a promise, sir! her intrusive thoughts chimed in, but she pushed it aside.
Even though she had a really nice — and it was really nice — time with Enzo and Carina, doing two guys at once was too much for her at the moment, yet that didn't go without saying that she hadn't dreamt about it, dreamt about them.
For now, this was enough. This was perfect.
Jules' hands slipped up to cup her breasts over her blouse, his touch confident but not demanding. Aurélien followed suit, his large hand settling on her waist, his thumb brushing the edge of her rib cage.
YN let herself get lost in the sensations — their mouths on hers, their hands exploring. Her moans filled the space between kisses, soft gasps escaping as they found ways to make her tremble under their attention.
Aurélien broke the kiss, his lips brushing against her ear as he whispered, "You’re incredible, belle. Perfect."
Jules hummed his agreement, pressing a lingering kiss to her jawline. "Just say the word, and we’ll stop," he reminded her.
YN shook her head, her voice breathy as she replied, "Don’t stop. Not yet."
And with that, she gave herself over to the moment, letting their kisses and touches drown out every doubt. For now, she didn’t have to think about anything else — just the feeling of being cherished by both of them, right here and now.
The heat in the room thickened as their hands and lips explored, each movement a blend of curiosity and simmering passion. YN found herself caught between their bodies, Jules’ lips brushing against her neck while Aurélien captured her mouth in a kiss that left her breathless. Her hands, trembling with a mix of nervousness and desire, wandered over Jules’ toned chest. Her fingertips skimmed over his defined muscles before dipping lower, where she felt his erection straining against her touch.
Jules let out a low groan, his lips momentarily pausing on her neck. His eyes fluttered shut as her hand pressed more firmly. "Should I stop?" she asked, her hand stilling.
Jules shook his head, his voice rough with desire. "You’re good," he assured her. His words sent a thrill through her, and she bit her lower lip, the action catching Aurélien’s attention.
Aurélien pulled back slightly, his dark eyes searching her face. "You good?" he asked, his voice soft yet firm.
"No sex tonight," YN declared, her voice steady despite the warmth pooling in her stomach.
Both men nodded immediately, their agreement firm. "No sex," Aurélien echoed, his lips brushing her cheek.
"But…" she started, her voice trailing off. Jules raised a curious brow, silently encouraging her to continue. "I wouldn’t mind more kissing… and touching. If you’re okay with that."
Aurélien smirked, his hand cupping her face. "You should already know that I’m down," he teased, causing her and Jules to chuckle softly.
Jules grinned, his hand brushing lightly over her waist. "That’s fine. This is all about you, chérie."
"Exactly," Aurélien agreed, his warm gaze settling on her.
YN’s lips curved into a half-nervous, half-excited smile as she let their words sink in. "Good," she said, feeling a surge of boldness. Her eyes flicked between them before she clapped her hands playfully. "So… take off your pants. And those drawers."
Aurélien let out a laugh, his brow arching in mock indignation. "Damn, not you treating us like your little sluts," he joked, but he slid off the bed nonetheless. Jules followed, both of them making quick work of their clothing.
Aurélien unbuckled his belt and unzipped his jeans, letting them drop to the floor. His shirt followed next, revealing his broad shoulders and toned chest, and then his boxers, leaving him gloriously bare. Jules mirrored his actions, peeling away his shirt, then his jeans and briefs in one fluid motion.
Both men stood before her, naked and unapologetically confident, their skin glistening under the dim lighting. The way their muscles flexed as they moved, the unapologetic confidence in their stances.
Bless you, Lord…
Bless Him indeed, praised her intrusive thoughts.
YN couldn’t stop her appreciative gaze from lingering. She exhaled deeply, her hands trembling slightly as she began to undress herself. First, her pants slid off, pooling around her ankles. Then came her halterneck top, revealing her bare shoulders and curves. Her panties were next, followed by the pasties she had carefully applied earlier. By the time she was finished, both men were back on the bed, flanking her sides as before.
"Okay, don’t make this awkward," she muttered, her cheeks warming at the vulnerable position she was in.
Aurélien chuckled, leaning in close to brush his lips against hers. "You’re the one making it awkward," he teased before capturing her mouth in a deep kiss.
"Very awkward," Jules added with a grin, his lips finding her neck again, the warmth of his breath sending shivers down her spine.
Her hands moved on instinct, exploring them both — Aurélien’s firm chest and the ripple of Jules’ abs. Their touches grew bolder as well, Jules’ hands cupping her breast firmly while Aurélien’s lips wandered to her collarbone. YN’s head fell back against the headboard, a soft moan escaping her lips as their attention left her dizzy.
Jules gripped her jaw gently, tilting her face toward him so he could claim her lips. His kiss was deep, deliberate, his lips moving against hers with intoxicating intensity. Meanwhile, Aurélien scooted lower on the bed, his mouth latching onto her breast. The warmth of his tongue flicking over her nipple sent jolts of pleasure coursing through her, and she arched into his touch, her body responding instinctively to the sensations.
Jules’ free hand wandered downward, his fingers skimming the curve of her thigh before massaging the soft flesh with firm, slow circles. His touch was unhurried, as though he was savoring every second. With a gentle nudge, he pushed her thighs apart wider, creating more space for him to explore. His fingers grazed the sensitive skin of her inner thighs, his knuckles brushing against her clit in the faintest tease that made her gasp against his mouth.
"Can I touch you here?" Jules asked, his lips brushing against hers as his hand hovered at her center, waiting for her permission.
"Yes…" YN breathed, her voice trembling with need as her hips arched slightly, granting him better access. At the same moment, Aurélien’s mouth moved to her other breast, his teeth grazing her nipple before his tongue soothed the sting. The combined sensations left her head spinning, her body aflame with desire.
Jules’ fingers pressed against her folds, sliding through her wetness. He hissed softly, his reaction sending a thrill through her. "You’re so wet," he murmured, his lips barely moving from hers.
"How wet is she?" Aurélien asked, pulling back from her breasts, his voice rich with curiosity and amusement.
Jules didn’t hesitate, his hand moving briefly from her body. "Soaked," he replied, holding up his fingers, which glistened with her arousal. Without thinking, he brought them to her lips. YN didn’t need instruction — she opened her mouth, her tongue flicking over his fingers before she sucked them clean, her gaze locked with his.
"Putain," Jules muttered, his brown eyes darkened with lust as he stared at her. There was a raw hunger in his gaze, an intensity that made her shiver under his scrutiny. She moaned softly when his fingers slipped from her mouth, her body still tingling from the taste of herself on his skin.
"You sure this isn’t weird?" she managed to say, the words slipping out before she could stop them. Foot, meet mouth, yet again.
Aurélien chuckled lowly, his large hands sliding up to cup her waist. "Yes. Now be quiet and enjoy it," he said firmly, his tone leaving no room for argument.
The logical part of her brain — the one still vaguely aware of social norms — tried to remind her of the surreal nature of the situation, how the two of them had undoubtedly seen each other naked countless times before, not to mention this clearly wasn’t their rodeo. But that thought quickly dissolved when Jules silenced her with another kiss, this one gentler, almost reassuring, yet no less passionate.
Aurélien’s fingers joined the mix, his touch grazing the sensitive skin of her inner thigh before moving to where Jules had left off. Jules’ hand slid downward again, his touch more assertive now, parting her folds with practiced ease. His fingers stroked her clit in small, deliberate circles while Aurélien’s fingers plunged into her slowly, stretching her.
The two worked in sync, their movements seamless and perfectly timed, as though they’d rehearsed this. Jules’ fingers teased her clit with increasing pressure while Aurélien’s plunged deeper, curling slightly to hit just the right spot that made her cry out, her hips rolling to meet their touch as the pleasure built to a near-overwhelming peak.
Aurélien’s lips found her neck again, his teeth grazing the sensitive spot just below her ear. "You feel so good," he murmured, his voice low and reverent. His fingers quickened their pace, his thumb brushing against her clit in time with Jules’ movements.
Jules watched her intently, his free hand tracing lazy patterns over her thigh while his other continued its rhythm. "This is all for you, chérie," he whispered, his voice laced with heat. "Just cum."
YN’s breaths came out in ragged pants, her body trembling as the sensations threatened to consume her. She was lost to the pleasure, her mind a haze of touch and desire and soft, murmured words. "I can’t…" she gasped, her back arching off the bed.
"You can," Aurélien assured her, his lips brushing against her jaw as his fingers hit that spot again. "And you will."
With a strangled cry, YN finally gave in, her body shuddering violently as waves of pleasure washed over her. Jules and Aurélien didn’t let up, their hands guiding her through the high until her body relaxed, boneless and sated between them. Both of them leaned down to kiss her softly — Aurélien on her cheek, Jules on her lips.
YN slowly came down from her orgasmic high, her body resettling after the aftershocks had dissipated. Letting out a sigh, she glanced down and spotted their erections – both of them still hard beyond measure, desperate for release.
"Should I suck–"
"No," Aurélien said whilst Jules simultaneously shook his head.
"I’m fine," added Jules. "We’re good."
Her eyes traveled back onto their penises. Don’t look fine to me… "You sure?"
"Positive," they said in unison.
"There’s always next time," said Aurélien as he slipped off the bed, grabbing his phone before making his way to the bathroom. "I’ll be back."
And with that, he closed the door behind him and YN was briefly consumed with her thoughts.
Kinda mean to have him rub one out when you have perfectly capable mouth and hands. Shameful, her intrusive thoughts chided.
No - you stood your ground on your boundaries. This is a win-win situation, countered her rational thoughts.
"If you keep staring at it, you’ll just make it harder," Jules’ voice pulled her out of her reverie and her gaze connected with his. As usual, Jules was cool and collected – relaxing comfortably in bed with his arms tucked behind his head.
"What?"
"My dick," he explained. "Keep staring at it like that and it’ll just get harder. Come ‘ere and cuddle."
Ooh, yes!
YN smiled brightly at his words and scooted beside him, snuggling deep into his side and hummed when he wrapped his arms around her.
"Are you doing okay?" he wondered after a few silent moments of her lying on his chest. "I know that this is a lot for you, but I want to make sure you’re good with…everything….Auré and I at the same time."
"I’m good, Jules."
"Seriously?"
YN lifted her head up from his chest to stare at him. "Yeah…just getting used to it. The possibility of–"
"Fucking us both?"
Even though that was exactly what she thinking, it still made her cheeks warm upon hearing it aloud. This time that they’ve spent together was nice and it did make her curious about how she could handle being so…full. Unlike her disastrous – and perhaps questionable – porn choices, no one has had the pleasure of being inside her other hole. Not like there hasn’t been any instances on trying; it just never panned out correctly. Perhaps she wasn’t doing it the right way (as if one needed extra instruction on anal sex) or maybe it wasn’t with the right partner (which seemed like the case). Either way, she never given it much thought besides now, that is.
"How did you guys do it before? With that girl from Bordeaux?"she wondered and Jules’ eyebrows furrowed. "I just want to know the positions–"
"We Eiffel Tower’d her." Direct. To the point. No hesitation.
YN tried to suppress a giggle at the double entendre, but failed miserably and a small chortle managed to escape. "Two French guys Eiffel Towering a girl?"
Jules dawned onto the gist of what she was saying and he even let out a chuckle himself. "I know, the joke writes itself." Then, he cleared his throat and exhaled a breath. "I mean….shit…we were so young. No anal sex though, just her mouth and pussy. We can just do that if it makes you more comfortable."
Interesting. "Have you tried it before?"
"Once," he said, the edges of his mouth curving upwards into a mischievous grin as he reminisced. "Not a personal fave, but lots of lube can help with that."
Then, they heard the toilet flush followed by the sounds of running water. Seconds later, Aurélien made his way out of the bathroom and sauntered over to the bed, sliding back onto his side as if he never left.
"You good, bébé?" Her overly caring — lover? situationship? — asked as one of his hands trailed down her spine.
"Yes," YN said, doing her darnedest to not moan as he caressed her soft skin, yet she did allow a shiver to go down her body upon feeling his slightly damp fingers.
"YN's curious about anal sex," said Jules, and she shot him a warning look, which caused him to laugh.
"You’re a freaky girl," was all Aurélien said as his hand continued its route downwards, moving from her back to the top of her ass. "I don’t think you’re ready for all of that yet."
"How do you know if I’m ready for all of that?" she retorted, accusingly, turning over to the other side to give him her full attention.
Instead of answering verbally, Aurélien’s hand skimmed lightly over her ass cheeks and then gently coaxed them apart until he came in contact with her virgin anus. She flinched at the feeling, and Aurélien scoffed.
"You’re not ready for all of that," he repeated then moved his hand to her lower back. YN rolled her eyes despite herself and a grin appeared on his annoyingly handsome face.
"Anyways," she started, turning around once more to Jules. "what time is it? I should get some things packed."
Jules removed one hand from behind his head to grab his phone from the other bedside table, tapping the screen to check the time. "Almost midnight."
Shit. She had six hours before she had to be up and ready to head to the airport.
With a groan, YN carefully slipped out of bed, scooting all the way down to the bottom edge and then walking over to the closet to take out her carry-on. Meanwhile, the boys didn’t move an inch – just lounged there like the sexy predators they embodied, naked as the day they were born.
"I’m surprised that you guys didn’t put on clothes or boxers…something," she muttered as she began to rifle through the closet for clothes to wear in England.
"We saw each other naked too many times to count," Aurélien said as he picked up his phone to scroll mindlessly through it. "Why? Should we put on some clothes?"
"I think she might be kicking us out," proclaimed Jules as he watched her pack then unpack her clothing selection from his side of the bed. "Pack a jacket, chérie. It’s supposed to be fourteen degrees Celsius in London tomorrow."
Celsius? What? "Huh?" That definitely made her halt her movements.
"Ah, you gotta say it in American, JK," explained Aurélien with an amused chuckle.
Jules muttered a curse under his breath. "Fifty-seven degrees your temperature."
Then why don’t they just say that? "Oh, thanks." YN scanned her closet for that jean jacket her mama packed, found it, and then place it inside the carry-on – along with another coord set, a maxi dress, two linen shirts, a pair of jeans, her mules, and some underwear. Doing the most for two days, of course. Always. But she needed options. "And for the record, I’m not kicking y’all out. Just…noticing."
"Noticing bad or noticing good?" This came from Aurélien, who finally shifted his gaze away from whatever he was watching on his phone to her.
YN shrugged nonchalantly. "Just noticing." Both of them let out a barely audible utterance. Hmm… "Sleepover?"
"Always."
"Of course."
Satisfied with both her clothing choices and their answers, YN decided to leave packing her skincare and makeup until tomorrow morning then grabbed her bonnet from the dresser and place it over her head before padding inside the bathroom to do her nightly routine.
She cleaned her face quickly, removing her makeup and then brushing her teeth. YN pulled on an oversized t-shirt and panties after she left the bathroom, climbing back into bed and in her designated spot in the middle.
They popped on her like grease out of a pan – arms wrapping around her (they definitely rehearsed that move), lips on either side of her neck, phones forgotten. The urban nightlife filtered through the windows, its sounds and lights scattered across the room to create the perfect ambiance as YN basked in being sandwiched between the two of them, enjoying the way both of their bodies molded next to hers, their scent wafting through her nostrils.
I could get used to this.
"Night, boys."
"Night, chérie." A little grumble from Jules, cuddling close.
"Bonne nuit, bébé." A low, yet deep murmur from Aurélien.
Her boys. YN flashed a wide grin in the dark, feeling cozy and relaxed. With the warmth surrounding her, she let sleep take over, happily drifting into dreamland.
______________________________________________
The alarm blaring jolted YN awake. She found herself sandwiched between Jules and Aurélien, both still deep in sleep.
"Turn it off," Aurélien groaned.
"Working on it," she sassed back, looking around the room. "If I could find it…"
Her phone had somehow ended up in her purse near the armchair. Among her notifications:
LewLew Bean: Text when you land tomorrow x. Roscoe's excited to see you!
BallerAlert: YN_YLN's ex-boyfriend spotted with Victoria's Secret model at LA hotspot
She chuckled at how they didn't even use Damari's name anymore.
"Where you going?" Aurélien's hand caught her wrist as she headed to the bathroom.
"Getting ready for my flight or did you forget?"
He kissed his teeth, muttering something before rolling over. Jules continued snoring, pillow still covering his head.
They're annoying, she thought, watching them sleep, but damn if they aren't cute. After last night, everything felt… different. Maybe juggling two French best friends wasn't as complicated as she'd thought.
After showering and packing her toiletries, she pulled on her airport fit - half-zip pullover, cropped tee, wide-leg sweats. She was lacing up her Nikes when they finally stirred.
"Morning, Sleeping Beauties."
"Morning."
"Mmmhmm."
"We can order breakfast before I go."
"Boo," Aurélien pouted.
Jules giggled, licking his lips. "Sounds like a plan."
While Aurélien used one of the hotel toothbrushes, Jules beckoned YN over with a crooked finger. Like a good girl, she sashayed to his side of the bed, letting him guide her down until they were eye-level.
His lips met hers softly - the kind of kiss that said don't forget us. All gentle pressure and sweet promise.
"Be safe over there," he murmured, fingers trailing from her shoulders to her neck, thumb stroking her cheek. "I don't know if I like your hair better up or down." He studied her low-maintenance bun.
"I prefer it down," Aurélien said as he returned to his side of the bed.
"Yeah, might be my favorite too," Jules agreed before heading to brush his teeth.
They shared breakfast - eggs, pastries, fruit - stealing bites from each other's plates like they'd done this a hundred times.
After getting dressed, they followed her as she got on the elevator, their hands filled with her bags. Both men hugged her goodbye in the lobby - Jules kissed her forehead while Aurélien squeezed her waist.
"See you Sunday," she promised.
"See you, cherie." Jules' response was sweet as usual, his eyes filled with longing.
"Don't have too much fun with Lewis," Aurélien said with a wink - ever the jokester but YN could tell that he was going to miss her too.
She gathered her carry-on and tote, handing them off to the driver before slipping inside the back seat, watching them wave as her Uber then pulled away.
Different, she thought again. But good different.
______________________________________________
"You really didn't have to pick me up," YN said as Lewis loaded her carry-on into his Mercedes SUV.
"Please, what kind of host would I be?"
A fine as hell one, her intrusive thoughts noted, appreciating how his t-shirt stretched across his shoulders. But for once, the attraction stayed purely aesthetic - like admiring art in a museum. No urge to touch, just respect for the craftsmanship.
A happy bark interrupted her thoughts. Roscoe's wrinkled face appeared between the front seats, tongue lolling out.
"Oh my god, he's even cuter in person!" She reached back to scratch behind his ears. The bulldog immediately flopped into her touch, making Lewis laugh.
"He's usually shy with new people." Lewis glanced over as he pulled onto the motorway. "You must be special."
"Nah, animals just know good people. Right, Roscoe?"
Another enthusiastic bark.
"So," Lewis's gap-toothed smile flashed, "tell me about these French boys of yours."
YN groaned, but found herself smiling. There was something comfortable about Lewis - like talking to a friend who'd seen it all and judged none of it.
"Well," she settled in for the drive, Roscoe's head now resting on her arm. "Last night was... interesting."
"Oh?"
"Let's just say there was some three-way kissing involved..."
"Holy shit!" Lewis nearly swerved. "You really out here living your best life!"
"The French are wild though."
"And you're just now figuring this out?"
Frank Ocean's "Pink + White" played softly as they drove through London's posh neighborhoods. Finally, they pulled up to a stunning Georgian house, complete with climbing vines and white gravel drive.
"This is so British," YN marveled, following Roscoe up the path.
The door opened to reveal a petite white woman with cropped hair. "This must be YN!"
"This is my mum, Carmen," Lewis said casually, slipping inside with her bags in tow.
First I'm staying here, now I'm meeting his mother? Does she think we're—
GURRRRLLLL! her intrusive thoughts screeched.
"Hi Miss Carmen," YN opened her arms for a hug, breathing in cookies and peonies - the most British smell ever.
"Come in! How was your flight?" Carmen ushered her inside. The house was gorgeous - checkerboard foyer tiles, winding staircase, wainscoting, and family photos everywhere. The kitchen was all navy cabinets, marble counters, and brass fixtures. "I've made some lunch. Would you like fish and chips?"
"I love fish and chips!" YN burst out enthusiastically, making Carmen's eyebrows shoot up. "Sorry, I tend to get—"
"Don't apologize. I love the enthusiasm. It's cod, okay?"
"Sounds good." Carmen plated the food and set it before YN. "Thank you, ma'am."
"Oh, you're so polite. And pretty."
Lewis finally appeared, leaning against the counter. "I'll show you your bedroom in a second. How is it?"
"She didn't try it yet, love." Carmen urged YN to take a bite. The fish was perfectly seasoned. Carmen beamed at her reaction. "It's my famous seasoning blend. Bit different than what you'd expect from a pub, but it's good right?"
"So good," YN agreed, trying the fries. Then YN's foot-in-mouth disease struck: "So… who do you think I am to Lewis?"
"I know you two are good friends," Carmen smiled. "Besides, this one is making me wait to become a grandmother unfortunately."
"You have Roscoe, Mum," Lewis said with a small smile playing on his lips.
"A human grandchild would be nice."
"You have those too. Four of them to be exact," Lewis pointed out.
"I want more!"
"And you will. When I retire."
"In three years!" Carmen harrumphed.
YN shrugged, taking another fry. "I mean, you are forty with no kids. Seems sus."
Lewis's jaw dropped while Carmen cheered. "Thank you!"
"He needs a nice woman to date. None of those model types. We've been there, done that too many times over," his mother continued.
"Maybe a businesswoman?" YN suggested.
"Ooh yes! Do you know any single women, preferably ages thirty-two to thirty-seven?"
"Okay, mum, that's enough. YN's not here to play matchmaker."
"I do, actually," YN said, making them both exclaim: "Really?!"
"I mean, she's divorced and has two kids - six-year-old twins but they're so cute and well-behaved."
"I don't know about becoming a stepdad," Lewis said apprehensively. "I don't want to overstep."
"Lewis, love, you're so great with kids!" Carmen insisted.
I think she's just willing to take on anyone at this moment.
"What she look like?" Lewis asked.
"Oh? You're taking it seriously?"
He shrugged. "Just curious, is all."
"Mmhmm," YN took out her phone, opened Instagram, and typed in 'Sabine Wurley', her label's A&R exec - a gorgeous Trini-Canadian with toffee skin, doe eyes, and all the Caribbean curves to match.
"Holy shit she's gorgeous," Carmen gasped.
"She's nice looking," Lewis said flatly. YN stared at him like he had three heads. "Give me her number."
"If I'm going to throw the alley-oop, don't fuck up her heart. I love Sab a lot."
"I won't."
"Promise me," YN pressed. "I'm deadass."
"Fine, fine, I promise. Dang."
YN forwarded the contact with a smirk. Sabine and Lewis? She could work with that.
🌹🇫🇷 Group Chat:
Aurélien 🌹 Miss you already 😘 These hotel beds are too big without you
Jules 🇫🇷 Speak for yourself. I'm spread out like a starfish
YN Y'all are so dramatic 🙄
Aurélien 🌹 Says the one who needed us both to sleep last night
Jules 🇫🇷 Exactly. Training bout to start. Talk soon.
YN Have fun! Be careful...
Jules 🇫🇷 You worried about us? Cute.
Aurélien 🌹 Very cute. Tell Lewis we said hi but not too enthusiastically 😏
YN smiled at her phone, scrolling through the group chat with her French baguettes. Twenty-four hours felt longer than it should.
Girl, you're down BAD, her intrusive thoughts teased as she pocketed her phone, letting Roscoe lead her around Silverstone's paddock. The bulldog stopped to sniff literally everything before finally choosing the perfect patch of grass.
"Is that YN?"
"Who's she?"
"The singer!"
"Why does she have Roscoe?"
The paddock photographers weren't confused at all - their cameras clicked away while she tried to wrangle an overexcited bulldog who'd spotted another driver's water bottle.
"Roscoe, no — that's not yours!" She tugged gently at his leash.
Too busy texting Jules back ("Show them what that ass do 😏"), she crashed right into someone in an orange racing suit - McLaren? "Oh shit, sorry!"
"No worries!" Blue eyes crinkled as he smiled. "I'm Lando."
She introduced herself politely, taking in his cute boyish features. Her horn-o-meter, usually quick to jump for any attractive man with an accent, stayed firmly at 0. Maybe she was catching feelings for her French boys if this British cutie wasn't doing it for her.
Or maybe, her intrusive thoughts suggested, you just have a type now: tall, dark, and speaks French.
Back at the Mercedes garage, Lewis scooped her into a hug. "Thanks for dog duty."
Rosa, his comms personnel, led Roscoe to his bed in the corner while Lewis started suiting up for qualifying.
"Good energy today," he said, zipping up his race suit. "I can feel it."
"You sound just like my mama with all this energy talk."
"Your mama knows what's up then."
YN rolled her eyes, checking her phone again.
"Missing the French boys already?"
"Mind your business!"
"Not very hot girl summer of you," he teased, pulling on his gloves. "Thought you weren't catching feelings?"
"I'm not!" But even she heard the uncertainty in her voice. A little 'missing you' doesn't mean anything, right?
Whatever you say, both her intrusive and rational thoughts weren't too convinced.
"Mhmm. Sure." He grinned. "Keep telling yourself that while you check your phone every two minutes."
"Shouldn't you be focusing on qualifying?"
"I am. And you're focusing on your messages from Jules and Aurélien."
She watched him qualify - still clueless about what was happening but proud of his P4 position based on everyone's reactions. But even as the garage celebrated, her mind wandered to Hamburg, wondering if her French boys were doing well at practice.
After qualifying, YN and Lewis walked arm in arm through the paddock, Roscoe trotting beside them. She pretended not to notice the cameras clicking or hear the whispers.
"They'd really lose it if they knew about your French situation," Lewis murmured.
"Don't you dare—"
"I would never. But it's funny watching them try to figure out who you're with."
Back at his place, they ordered Indian takeout and sprawled on his massive couch, Roscoe snoring between them.
"You're leaving early tomorrow?"
"Miss my boys," she admitted, shoving another piece of naan in her mouth.
"Oh, really?" he teased, but his smile was kind. "Though I once drove six hours just to see this model for like... two hours max."
"Lewis Hamilton, you dog!"
"I heard women do crazy things when they're dickmatized."
"I am NOT dickmatized!" She threw a pillow at him. "I just... miss them."
"Mhmm." His knowing look said everything. "It's cool though. Young, free, exploring. Just be careful with those feelings."
"I know." She got up to hug him, ready to head to her room to tuck in for the night. "Good luck tomorrow. Show these young boys how it's done."
"Always do." But she could tell he was a bit sad she'd miss the race. "Text me when you land?"
"Of course. And thanks for... everything."
"Anytime, Lil' Bit."
She pretended not to notice how soft his smile was. Lewis Hamilton, seven-time world champion, was a whole teddy bear underneath all that swagger.
_______________________________________________
The next morning, scrolling through her phone in the airport lounge, she saw:
PopCultureDaily: YN's European Tour continues! From Monaco clubs to Silverstone with Lewis Hamilton - sis is LIVING 🔥 [Photos: YN dancing in Monaco, walking with Lewis at Silverstone]
view all comments.... celebtea: Hot Girl Summer: Achievement Unlocked ↳ ynglobal: First French footballers now F1? We stan a versatile queen ↳ tsrfans: Better than that NFL bench warmer mayegurl: Still waiting for tea about those TWO French players 👀 ↳ maggiegerty: Wait what? TWO?? sportsgossip: Lewis Hamilton and YN dating? ↳ f1insider: They're just friends y'all ↳ fanpage: The way he looks at her though!
"Now boarding flight 2847 to Hamburg…"
She made he way to board her plane and settled into her aisle seat, already thinking about seeing Jules and Aurélien, when a deep voice interrupted:
"Excuse me, that's my window seat."
YN looked up - and up - into warm brown eyes behind wire-rimmed glasses. The stranger was gorgeous in that intellectual way - tall and lean but solid, perfect fade, skin like dark honey, full lips curled in a gentle smile. His navy Tom Ford suit and Cartier watch screamed tenured professor with family money.
Her horn-o-meter jumped to 9.
Another one for the roster? her intrusive thoughts suggested.
Finally, not an athlete, her rational side approved.
"Javaughn Taylor," he introduced himself as he settled in, his Northeast accent surprising her. "Heading to Hamburg for work."
"YN," she replied. "What kind of work?"
"A conference. Economics at Hamburg University. I teach at Columbia."
They talked the whole flight - about music (he played jazz piano), books (they both loved Octavia Butler), travel (he'd just been to Cape Town). His laugh was rich, his intelligence obvious but not showy. He really reminded her of that hot professor everyone had a crush on in college but never dared to approach.
When they landed, she had his number and a flutter in her stomach that had nothing to do with turbulence.
The universe really testing my French situation, she thought, watching him stride away in those perfectly tailored trousers.
TO BE CONTINUED......
