#lalahbug

         Druig was monitoring the harvest and helping where he could. There had been a bout of sickness through the town, causing them to be shorthanded for this task. Of course, the most important thing was that everyone was fed and healthy. But his mind was wandering to you.

         You’d gone on one of your trips to visit the others. Following him, out of love, when he took the Aztecs, but you couldn’t part fully from the family. Missing them deeply, visiting them whenever you felt the need to.

         He could really use your powers right now. Teleporting back and forth, quickly moving crops and harvesting them. But he was thankful of your powers more so, because when you left. You’d never be gone long, being able to cut down on any needed travel time.

         But you’ve been gone longer than usual. Normally no more than a month, if that. Now though. You were bordering on two months. Even acting oddly before you left, but you wouldn’t talk to him about it.

         His main worry was if you would even come back at this point. You had never brushed off a talk with him before, but you did right before you left. Something was bothering you and it was eating him not knowing what it was. He didn’t doubt your love for him, not after being together for at least 4 millennia. He knew whatever was wrong had been festering for the past few decades and you were scared to bring it up.

         Druig assumed it had something to do with the village, but he wasn’t sure what. As you had as much as a hand and say here as he did. You ruled by his side, as his equal.

         Druig was pacing near the lake, late at night, after his normal patrol. He wanted to go find you. You’d been gone for almost 3 months now. But he couldn’t leave, he was the leader and his duties had increased with your disappearance.

         As he squatted down to look at his reflection in the lake, he could hear the soft whoosh of your power. It took all of his control to not be angry, to not turn on you and lash out. He didn’t want to ruin your return or sour the relief he felt as your hand gently grazed his shoulder.

         “Dru, I’m back,” you pulled on him gently. Silently asking him to stand, he allowed it and returned the embrace you wrapped him in. Normally you’d say, I’m home. Something was still wrong, your time away didn’t help. He constricted his arms around you, as he tried to squash the fear rising in him.

         “I missed you,” he breathed softly while pressing a kiss to your forehead.

         “I missed you,” tilting your head up to brush your lips against his. Both of you sighed contently as he rested his forehead against yours. Wishing to read your mind, but he would never use his powers on you.

         “My beautiful girl, you were gone so long. I was so worried.”

         “I’m sorry,” you rested your forehead on his shoulder without another word. He didn’t want to press you, but you weren’t giving up anything either.

         “Tell me where you were?” he asked softly before starting to rub your back.

         “I wanted to see the world, I haven’t really in the past 500 years. Normally I just go to visit everyone, getting glimpses. I went to catch up; see old sites, new ones, and learn some of their technology. Tried some new food. Then I visited everyone. I was hoping it would help me feel better, but it didn’t.”

         “What’s wrong?”

         “Druig,” you pulled back and searched his stormy eyes. “What’s most important to you?”

         He was taken back, was she doubting his love for her? Was this about the humans? What was she wanting to hear? What was brewing in that head of hers? Whatever this is about, he needed to answer this carefully.

         “The need to right my wrongs. Idly letting so many humans kill each other for far too long. You know that, that’s why I saved these people. I can’t save them all, because then they’d lose the flaws that make them what they are. But I can have some peace of mind here.”

         “And without this place, would you feel incomplete or distraught over time?”

         “I would,” he searched your eyes, but you gave away nothing. “What’s most important to you?”

         The sad smile you gave him, broke his heart, he had given you the wrong answer. You were doubting his love for you. He should have said you are the most important thing to him.

         “Family,” you murmured finally. He knew you were going to say it was him, but you didn’t want him to feel guilty. He already had enough shame from his past and trying to correct it.

         Your head fell to his chest, listening to his heartbeat and tightening your hold on him. Everything felt wrong now, out of place. As if you were savoring this embrace, his warmth. A start of a goodbye.

         It was a start of a farewell. You acted as normal as you could these past few days. But you were distant. Kisses and intimacy never seemed to quell the storm inside you.

         And then, you started to give your duties to elders and capable villagers. Training them to replace you, so when you left, Druig wouldn’t feel the burden of your absence. He watched helplessly having no idea how to stop you.

        You were determined and nothing he did seemed to reassure you of his love. No words or actions got through to you. Every act of service, quality time, gifts, sweet affections, or touch; was for naught.

                 While you were getting ready for bed that night, he leaned against the doorway watching you in your meticulous routine.

         “When are you leaving?” You froze and looked at him like a deer caught in headlights. “Don’t play naïve, tell me the truth.”

         “Soon,” you turned to the bed to get under the covers, trying passively to end the conversation. He was quick to follow, easily moving you, making you face him when you laid down.

         “Why?” he cupped your face, trying to anchor you to him.

         “You don’t need me Druig, you never have.”

         “I do. Whatever is that you want, tell me. I will do it for you.”

         “The thing I want is the one thing I would never ask of you. But I’ve wanted to, that’s why I need to leave.”

         “Say it,” his voice was hard, he knew what it was, but he had to hear it. When your bottom lip trembled, it confirmed his thoughts. “Tell me,” he wiped a stray tear from your cheek with his thumb.

         “I want you, just you. A togetherness and loneliness that isn’t viable here. Something like what Gil and Thena have. Just the two of us.”

         Druig pressed his lips into a hard line to keep his emotions in check. “I can’t just leave them.” Even when telling him, you couldn’t ask him or say it outright. Showing him how hard this was on you. You could never truly ask him to leave the settlement behind, let them go to be with you.

         The hiccup-like sob that escaped your throat broke him, as he started to cry too. “I know, my love.”

         Druig moved to pin your body under his, showering you in kisses. If this was goodbye, he’d make it memorable. His dutiful hands removed his clothing and yours, caressing as much as your skin as possible in the act.

         Already warm and wet for him, like always. Delving two fingers into your core, wanting to increase your slick before burying himself into your tight warmth. He bumped his forehead to yours at your first wanton gasp. With another coiling of his fingers and flick of his wrist, you were already on the edge. Quicker than normal. Maybe due to being honest, the weight of your secret off your shoulders.

         Quickening pants and whispers of his name, you pulled him in for a passionate kiss. Rough pad of this thumb brushed your clit, smiling against your lips are you trembled. Groaning as your walls started to grip his fingers more. Forcing his tongue into your mouth. Swallowing your cries as you orgasmed on his fingers with the tight circles he pressed on your clit.

         He couldn’t wait to be in you any longer and removed his fingers. Moaning your name as he sucked them clean. Then kissing you, with your mind cleared enough to press your muscle into his mouth. A playful fight, both of you smiling into the kiss, for control as he pressed his body onto yours.

         You wrapped your legs around his waist as he prodded against your cunt. Throwing your head back into the pillows. Biting back your moan as he sunk into you slowly, cherishing your fluttering walls. Soft whimpers and gasp treated him as he rocked his hips into yours languidly. His girth welcomed yet blazing stretch.

         “You can be louder than that, beautiful, I know you can,” Druig pressed his forehead to yours. He needed to hear you, engrain your noises into his memory.

         “We don’t want them to hear,” you bit your lip as he found that sensitive spot inside you. Druig kept his pace, rapidly aware of how long it’d been since sex had anything more than this. Languorously loving making. But when was the last time he’d taken you apart? How many times had he told you to quiet down? Clamp a hand over your mouth? Whispered those exact words to you, ‘we don’t want them to hear.’

         Too long and a new wave of guilt washed over him. How long had he kept you unsatisfied to make sure no one heard you? To be ideal figures to the town.

         He pressed deep inside you before pausing, waiting for your eyes to focus on him. “Where will you be going when you leave?”

         “What?” you were stunned, why the hell would he ask that now?

         “Do you have a place set up?” You nodded still confused. “Take us there, let’s break in your new bed,” his cunning smile spread as you glowed before a whirlwind of air swirled around. Within a wink, you were sinking into a plusher bed.

         Druig glanced around briefly, the room was too dark. He wanted to see you. Spotting a lamp on the nightstand, he leaned over, smirking at the whine you gave let out at he pushed deeper inside you with his movement. Flicking on the light then he rubbed a thumb over your cheek.

         “You’re mine, aren’t you?” Druig asked, he may let you go physically for a while, but never emotionally.

         “Forever, Druig.”

         “Then I expect you to be screaming my name,” he simpered with a quick drive of his hips. Groaning with your core flitting around him and your heels digging into his thighs. Salacious sounds echoed in the dimming lit room as Druig kept a steady and merciless pace. Quick kisses in between heavy breaths and words of praise while your brows rested together.

         You knew Druig would want you to keep your eyes on his and you were doing your best. But the longer he thumped into you, the harder it was to focus on him with your imminent release.

         “Druig-” your moan cut off with a cry as his lips attached to the sensitive spot on your neck. Clenching around him and giving a high wail with broken pieces of his name while crashing from your peak.

         “Oh fuck,” he panted against your neck, holding back while helping you ride out your high. “So good for me, beautiful,” he pressed a kiss to your forehead while you came down.

         “Druig, you didn’t-”

         “You didn’t think we were done, did you?” he cooed at you, tutting softly as you nodded. “Oh, precious thing,” he chuckled softly while easily moving your legs onto his shoulder. Pressing you deeper into the bed, infatuated with the whines you gave him.

         Grabbing your hands to lace your fingers together, folding you more adding more of his body weight onto you. He started slow, looking for that certain spot deep inside you. One he hadn’t abused for a long time, excited to exploit it over and over again.

         With a broken sob of pleasure from you, he knew he found it. Undulating his hips into yours. The soft squelch of your cunt fills the room, following your cries and his groans. Heavy breathing a soft echo within movements.

         You could barely think as satisfaction overtook you. Molten like lava down your spine, mind-numb pleasure. A throaty groan left Druig as he started to see your eyes glazed over.

         “You like it when fuck you like this?” Druig shifted slightly to get his pelvis to start brushing angst your button. Cursing under his breath as your channel viced around him. “Yeah you do,” he simpered as you rang out his name like a broken prayer.

         Sheen of sweat clung to both of your skin. Digging your nails into his hands, needing the purchase as he enraptured you. His abdomen and balls started to tighten.

         “It’s been 5 centuries since you screamed my name, come on precious, give it to me,” Druig was asking but it was a question. He would make it happen. Releasing one of your hands to grab the headboard with his right for leverage. Fumbling a bit to gather both of your wrists into his left hand. Pulling out all the way then slamming into you, incessantly.

         Sultry moans slipped out of you freely as you quivered around him tighter and tighter with every punishing thrust.

         “Whose cunt is this?” sweat from his brow dropped on your chest.

         “Yours!” you cried, tearing up from the taut coil in your stomach.

         “My name,” he growled, he had to hear you scream it. The last snap of his hips, perfectly jolting your sensitive spot with pressure to your throbbing clit. Severed the spool inside you.

         A hoarse wail of his name, tears falling from your eyes, and your pussy sucking him deeper, he let go. Spilling inside you, the throb of his dick and your walls relishing off each other.

         Letting go of your hands, then the headboard. Moving to let your legs down to his waist. Gentle kiss pressed to your skin; as he softened inside you and ragged breathing from both of you cooled. Pulling out of you with a sigh from each of you.

         Your eyes were heavy, exhausted from the long day and border of overstimulation.

         “Where’s the bathroom, beautiful?” you weakly pointed to a door in the corner of the room. Druig was off of you and up, glad to see a large tub, and quickly went to fill it with hot water.

         Once the tub was filled he grabbed a cloth and went to you, gently cleaning your folds. Knowing you wouldn’t want clean water dirtied the moment you were in it. Druig lift you, smiling at how worn you were.

         “Hot bath then bed, love,” you mumbled thanks as he placed you in the water. Druig left you, going to change the bedding, taking a moment to try and find everything. His heart-clenching finding clothes there for not just you, but for him as well.

         You had hoped he would come here, prepared the home for both of you. But it would be only you. More guilt settled on him, but he pushed it down to finish his task so he could bathe with you for a bit.

         Druig sank into the warm water behind you, circling his arms around you, pulling you tight against him.

         “When do you want me to take you back?” you said it gently, not wanting to offend him. Simply wanting to know how much longer you’d have him. Resting your head on his shoulder, looking up at him.

         “Let’s enjoy the night here, you can take me back in the morning.” He kissed your temple then your lips.

         “I love you.”

         “I love you, more,” he chuckled as you shook your head. But he did, knowing he had to let you go. So you could be happy, you weren’t happy anymore in the town and he couldn’t bring himself to tell you to stay.

Author’s Note:

Okay, so I fell for Druig very unexpectedly. Outside of this little series I have two other fics, one-shots, I’ve been thinking about. But I’m not sure if they are something I’ll bring myself to write for a while at least.

I really like the plot I have for this story in my head. This might be the longest chapter though? Maybe the last of the sex too unless I change my mind in part 3.

          Blair had been your best friend for years. Her family was neglectful and negligent at the best of times. So, your parents took her in, supporting her, accepting her, and raising her alongside you. Sisters by love and not by blood. At some point, she moved in just before you both attended middle school and her parents didn’t even care.

          Blair was… well the nicest way you could describe her was a beautiful gothic witchy vibe and a chaotic good. Raging lesbian who loved to fuck with straight entitled boys. She read your cards, energy, palm, and occasion tea leaves. She stood out in every crowd. Confident in her skin and everything she did and wore, even if it was border lingerie.

          Yet you, were the opposite. Dressed for comfort, kind to a fault, hesitant, and demure. You balanced each other nicely. It helps Blair seems to be some kind of empath and you didn’t have to vocalize any discomfort. She’d sense it and talk to you about it. Symbiotic relationship of some sense. Although you felt as if she took care of you more than she did for you. She claimed she couldn’t live without you in her life. Your love and spirit kept her going and gave her meaning.

          It wasn’t until after you’d moved into your place together after finishing high school and college that you started to really see Blair. She was a witch, at least in practice. True witchcraft and when you’d ask about it. She’d tell you not to worry, nothing was dark and everything in life would balance.

          You shrugged it off figuring it was a hobby and it fit well with her personality. You let her be as long as she wasn’t in trouble and there was no harm. And over the years of living together, you forgot about her practice unless you stumbled in on a session, getting a reminder.

          “Blair,” you slurred while cuddling into her during one your drinking at-home sessions on a Friday night. A month ritual you both indulged in, for your alone time together. “I don’t think I’ll ever find someone to love me, not as you do.”

          “Nonsense, you will, you’re amazing,” she smiled and petted your head. She had been bordering motherly love lately, or at least a very protective big sister.

          “And the only guys who would ever see me that way, don’t exist, I’m certain.”

          “No, you still just have the hots for Eddie,” she giggled while shoving you up to sit. “You can’t honestly believe the only person who could love you, doesn’t even exist.”

          “It feels that way,” you rested your head back on the couch. “It’s been, what? 4 years since my last boyfriend. I’ve had some flings, but they all made it clear how much I was nothing more than a hole.”

          “You’re not just a hole,” she snapped. She eyed you for a moment, thinking, biting her lip. She shouldn’t even consider doing this, but you’re her best friend. You and your family saved her. And you’ve never asked for one thing from her. Never asked her to do anything with her powers, you just wanted her in your life. She wouldn’t be where she is today, without you. She gulped the last of her wine. “Okay, let’s say Eddie Munson was real, here. What would you do with him?”

          “Oh, I can think of all of the dirty things, but I would need his consent,” you tittered. “But I would love to just cuddle with him, watch a movie. Show him everything, as if he was sucked outta Stranger Things, and teach him all the tech. We’d save him before he could die, put a spell on him so no one would recognize him from the show. Just getting him here and loving on him. Set him up to perform and find friends for D&D. And if for some reason he didn’t want to stay, didn’t love me back the way I think he would. I would let him go because at least he'd be alive.”

          “If I brought him here and he didn’t end up loving you and simping for you, I’m sending his ass back to die.” Blair gritted.

          “Nnnoooo,” you whined and clung to her causing her to laugh. “Don’t be mean to my love, go pick on some other white boy, leave mine alone.” You both started giggling, soon you passed out in her lap.

          She pulled the blanket off the back of the couch onto you before getting up, shuffling you off her lap to get free. “Well, time to get to work, you deserve to be happy, after everything you’ve done for me.” She plucked a hair from your head and went to her room.

           You woke with a start when there was a loud crash from Blair’s room, you scrambled up from the couch and ran to her room. Pounding on the door in time with the throbbing in your head from the alcohol. “Blair! Are you okay?” nothing. “Blair!” you yelled after you heard a scream, you jiggled the doorknob but it was locked. You ran to the coin jar, yanking out a quarter then ran back to her room, slotting it into the flat line and twisting it to unlock it.

          You flung open the door to see a man, standing over Blair. You grabbed one of her big crystals off her shelf and went to chuck it at his head. “NO!” she screamed at you, you froze and skidded to a stop.

          Wide big brown eyes snapped to you, following Blair’s eye line. “Eddie?” you asked before fainting.

          “Fuck,” you heard Blair utter before you blacked out.

          “You’re taking all of this a lot better than I thought you would.” Blair was declaring, your head was pulsing. You groaned and tried to sit up. “Don’t you even think about it,” Blair snapped before pushing you back down. Putting the ice bag back on your head, you hissed at the pain. You must have hit your head when you collapsed.

          You opened your eyes slowly, staring into Blair’s muted greens. “You’re okay?” you asked softly.

          “Yeah, how about you?” you blinked at her owlishly. “Hungover and sore from the forming goose egg on your head?” you hummed in response.

          “What happened?” you tried sitting up but she pushed you down again.

          “So, I did something, for you. My room got a bit trashed from it and I freaked him out, so he screamed.”

          “So that wasn’t your scream?” she shook her head. “Wait, him?”

          “Yeah, yeah,” Blair glanced over to the chair you knew was next to the sofa. “Remember what we were talking about before you passed out?”

          “Blair,” your voice was firm. “You didn’t, it’s not even p-possible!” You sat up ignoring her fretting hands. You locked eyes with Eddie, sitting on your chair, in your living room. You whipped your head back to your friend. “How? Why? Is this even ethical?” your voice was raising.

          “Babs! Breath.” Blair sat on the edge of the couch next to you. “Okay so how, I’m a witch, you know this. Why, because you deserve this, you’ve never asked me for anything. Not even when I offered to help you get passing grades, that promotion, nahdah, you never let me help with anything. And seriously, ethical? It’s not like anyone else is going to figure it out. I did the spell you suggested with it.”

          “So, Edward Munson from Stranger Things just exists now, yet no one outside of us is going to know? Do you hear this? How ridiculous this is?!”

          “Anything is possible, especially for me, us. Come on, worse case, I send him back. Best case,” she raised her eyebrows at you and you playfully smacked her arm. “I also shoved a lot of knowledge into him, so he’s a bit dazed right now. Figured if he’s staying here, it’d be easier to fit in if he didn’t have to learn everything first hand.”

          “What knowledge?” you glanced back over to Eddie. Who was in fact blankly staring at the wall.

          “More so, just history, common pop and meme culture for people our age, shows we’ve watched, books we’ve read, and common music. Just like 40 years of info.” She chuckled at your unimpressed glare. “He’ll still need to learn how to use everything, get around, and actually watch and read some of the things I threw in there. But now he’s got a general know-how and explore without too much issue.”

          “Okay, and he’s not like fried or anything right?”

          “No, no,” she looked at him, “maybe. I’m not sure, he’s not freaking out. But he has a fever.”

          “How is this possible?” you whispered staring at him, letting your eyes take him in.

          “I did my spell, gave him your voice in his head with what you said you wanted to do with him. Gave him the option to be here, and he took it.”

          “Wait what I said?”

          “Yeah, the whole, cuddle, love, teach him, save him, yada yada,” she twirled her hand to signal that it was your ramble from earlier.

          You groaned in embarrassment. “He knows all that?” you sighed as Blair giggled in response. “So, he knows he was going to die in the show? That he didn’t exist until now?” you whispered.

          “Yeah, he’s kinda shocked someone could care enough about him to want him here, to save him.”

          “He clearly doesn’t know how popular he is. I know many fans who would kill to have this.”

          “You wouldn’t,” Blair sighed contently. “You could never wish harm on someone just to get what you want. Which is why I did this, you deserve this, and he wanted to come. It’ll work out. I’m gonna go shuffle him into our guest room. We’ll talk more in the morning, okay?” she pressed a kiss to your cheek before gently pulling on Eddie.

          “Where?” he mumbled softly, his brain still trying to compute everything.

          “Bed, sleep will help everything settle in, but you might have a headache in the morning.” Blair pulled on him again, and he followed. But stopped in front of you, eyeing you softly before giving you a gentle smile.

          “Goodnight, Eddie,” you grinned at him.

          “Night, sweetheart,” he chuckled softly.

          “All right store the heart eyes for the morning, sleep, both of you.” Blair chuffed before scuffling Eddie down the hallway to his new room.

          You groaned as light streaked into your room. Still hungover, you grumbled while pushing yourself out of bed. Wandering out to the kitchen in your tank top and underwear, in desperate need of some caffeine. Walking around with your eyes barely open, getting your favorite mug before calling out to Blair.

          “Thank you for brewing coffee for both of us.” You poured yourself a cup but when you put it back you realized there was a lot. “Did you make extra for a reason?”

          “Wasn’t sure how much we’d drink.”

          You jumped and spun around, thankfully you weren’t holding your cup fully and it only clattered on the counter a bit. You hung onto the edge of the surface to steady yourself. “So that wasn’t a fever or alcohol-induced dream?” you mumbled softly while staring at Eddie sitting at the island. Sipping on his own coffee.

          “It sure felt like it didn’t it?” he huffed a laugh then you saw the flush on his cheeks and the wander of his eyes.

          “I need more clothes then,” you said before scampering back to your room.

          “If you say so,” Eddie jested while watching you walk away.

          “How are you feeling?” Blair asked, placing the back of her hand on his forehead. “No more fever, headache?” she dropped her hand.

          “A bit. Hoping the coffee will help.” Blair popped a couple of gummies and pills in front of him. “What’s this?”

          “Edibles and Advil,” she said while taking the stool next to him.

          “Oh cool, did you make them?” he squished the little bear with his finger then gave her a confused look when she laughed.

          “No, dude, they’re common. Weed is legal here. Our girl has a stuff stocked medicine stash, feel free to look through it. Actually, look through everything. Learn what you can on your own, and go at your own pace. After we’re all fed and everything. We’re going shopping. If you’re gonna be here, you’ll need your own stuff. Phone, laptop, headphones, clothes, food choices. I’ve already hit up my contacts to get your paperwork.”

          “Our girl?” Eddie’s brow furrowed.

          “Yeah, she’s like my sister. I’ve got my girlfriend. She likes you; you’re staying here until further notice. Come on, I know you’re smarter than this.”

          “Sure,” Eddie looked away, Blair was a bit intimidating. “Shopping where?”

          “The mall would be the easiest place. Get what we need there, then we can hit other stores and thrift stores too. Shop until we drop. We got today and tomorrow. Because she and I got work on Monday, which means you’ll be here alone while we are. So wanna get you all set up to not be bored while we’re gone.”

          “Two days to set up my life here?”

          “Two days to get started, don’t get so dramatic.” She playfully shoved Eddie before moving to get her coffee.

          “So, I was thinking we get delivery for breakfast, get ready, and hit the town,” you announce while mirthfully hip-checking Blair to get your mug to fix your coffee the way you like it.

          “I’m on it, Eddie, what do you like for breakfast?”

          “Um just get me anything, lots of it. Kinda starving.”

          “Yeah, I picked you up while you were already on the run.”

          “Blair,” you hissed. “You couldn’t get the poor guy before all the trauma?”

          “I couldn’t choose. I simply reached out and whenever his brain was open and willing to leave his old life behind to come here, is when I could get to him. So yeah, understandably, he’s ready to start anew when there’s a damn manhunt after him.”

          “Did you get him before Watergate creation?”

          “Just after, at Skull Rock, before getting in contact with anyone,” she patted your shoulder.

          “Okay fine, fine, I forgive you. At least it wasn’t at the last possible moment.”

          “Yeah no, I think being on the run and not being able to get ahold of anyone would make me wanna start over in life too.”

          “Ditto,” Eddie jeered. “How did I die by the way?”

          “We can watch it.” Blair piped up; she loved Stranger Things as much as you.

          “Blair!” you hissed again. “Would you want to watch you die?”

          “Oh yeah, bummer, we can watch up until that point. It’s right at the end anyways. But he’d love how metal he looks just before. Goddamn iconic scene and goes out a hero, I mean I would wanna watch my death if it was that cool.” Blair rambled while ordering food on her phone.

          “Hero?” Eddie muttered.

          “Yeah Eddie,” you smile at him softly. “She’s right, you’d love to see it. I can show you a clip another time and

you can watch the show if you want. There’s so much for you to see, we can start just about anywhere. Anything she put in your noggin that you wanna know more about?”

          “Music, no records, tapes? It’s all just on the internet?”

          “Yeah,” you sat next to him and put your phone down between the both of you. Quickly unlocking it before showing it to him. “So, there’s a lot of ways to get music. We still have records, CDs, but not tapes. Everything thing else is digital. You own it or you listen to it for free.”

          “So, I could just listen to whatever I want when I want?”

          “Yeah, tell me the first song that pops into your head.”

          “Rainbow in the Dark,” Eddie smiled.

          You quickly typed it out. “We can listen to it, on YouTube, Spotify, Pandora, and Apple Music. You can also buy the album online, digitally, or have a physical copy sent to you by mail.” You opened the song and let it play on your phone. Eddie just watched it, tapping his fingers along with the beat.

          “Can I get a guitar?”

          “Is that music place still open at the mall?” you asked Blair.

          “No, but we can go to that big music place downtown.”

          “Oh, they’d have more options too.”

          “I could get one today?” Eddie was a bit shocked.

          “Yeah, there isn’t much you can’t get same day when you go in person.”

          “You can even get stuff same day by mail sometimes,” Blair added. “Food should be here in 30.”

          “We don’t go pick it up?”

          “No, we order from an application, pay for the order, tip the driver as well, then they bring it to our door.”

          “And you did all that just while we were talking?” Eddie pointed to Blair’s phone.

          “Yeah, you’ll get it more so when you have your own phone. I’m gonna give you one of my credit cards to use, so please just ask before you buy stuff with it online, okay?”

          “Yeah, cool, cool,” Eddie rubbed his sweaty palms on his thighs.

          “It’s okay,” you patted his hand. “I’m sure going from having to look everything up in the library with cards to just having information in the palm of your hand, is overwhelming.”

          “A bit? Not too bad, not with the info dumping Blair gave me last night. Also, what is Starbucks?”

          “We’ll stop by one while we’re shopping,” Blair said while sipping her drink.

          “And no one is going to notice he’s, ya know, Eddie?”

          “If anything, people might think he’s Joseph Quinn, but not Eddie.”

          “Who?”

          “The actor who plays Eddie for the show.”

          “Right, because I didn’t exist. I was just a character, played on tv.”

          “Well, more so streaming service. Stranger Things belongs to Netflix. Which isn’t just limited to the TV. You can watch it on your phone, laptop, etcetera. So more so, a character played to be seen on screen, would be more correct.”

          “You don’t need to correct everything he says.”

          “You’re right, you’re right, I’m just rambling. I mean I brought him here for you, but I’m still excited, okay?” she pouted. “So, Eddie,” Blair eyed him for a moment. “Angel here,” her head bobbed in your direction, “she your type or what?”

          “Blair!” you exclaimed. “Eddie, you don’t have to answer that.”

          “I mean, she brought me here for you though.” You missed the way his eyes traveled down your body while you stare at your roommate in disbelief.

          “That doesn’t mean you don’t get a choice. I’m happy to just know you’re alive and that it’ll stay that way for a long time. Just want to get to know you. If nothing happens, nothing happens. Just stay in touch, we can be friends.”

          Blair smacked your arm. “Don’t do that!” you glared at her. “Come on! He was totally checking you out when you wandered out here half-asleep. Don’t do this. You deserve a good guy. Don’t shut it down and give up before even trying.”

          “Eddie existing is all I need. We can’t make him feel a certain way. He doesn’t owe us his free will.”

          “I’d like to differ,” Blair grumbled while crossing her arms across her chest. “Angel, just don’t shut him out. Eddie, I guess live your life how you want. We’re just here to guide you or whatever. Call for me when the food is here.” Blair razzed before walking off to go get ready for the day.

          You sighed heavily, sipping your coffee and then taking your phone once the song had ended. “What would you like to do while we wait for the food delivery?”

          “Maybe make our shopping list and if I have questions, you can teach.”

          “Oh sounds, good.” You opened a note on your phone. “Okay so, I think the first thing will be a phone, they’re kinda a necessity for most things nowadays. We’ll get a smartphone, or whatever is cheapest to add to our plan. That will also likely take the longest, so it’ll be nice to start there.

          “Good news is that the 80s look is coming back into fashion, so when we go shopping for clothes. You should be able to find things you recognize, but your rocker style has kinda always been in, so it should be easy to get you things. Unless you want to try anything new.”

          “I think I wanna stick with what I know for now.”

          “Understandable. So, phone, clothes, personal hygiene stuff, get you a copy of our keys. Our guest room is now yours, but if you want different sheets, blankets, or whatever, we can look at that too. A lot of what we have you’re more than welcome to. There isn’t a dresser in there but there is a desk. Oh, you’ll probably wanna pop into our local GameDen, nerd hangout, and try and make some friends. They’ll have D&D stuff there, card games, anime, whatever you wanna explore.”

          “There’s a whole store dedicated to nerd stuff?”

          “Yeah, there are lots, everyone’s accepted there, but I’ll be taking you to the one I go to for my nerd stuff.”

          “Like what?”

          “Anime, I like to collect some cards and figures.”

          “But not D&D?”

          “I’ve never been good at creative and imaginative stuff. Nor working in a group or making friends.”

          “But you and Blair are close?”

          “Only friend I really have. Bit of a loser like that. She’s my best friend. But she’s social, has her girlfriend and peeps she’ll hang out with.”

          “How big of a loser could you be when you’re so loved by a witch to have her bring me here?”

          “I guess that’s a good question,” you paused then looked at him shyly, “thanks, Eddie.”

          “S’not a problem sweetheart.”

          Eddie was overwhelmed, from the moment you and Blair got him outside. The bustling modern city is a far cry from his small Podunk hometown. Eddie insisted on linking arms with both of you, scared to lose you, even after he got his own phone to be able to contact you both.

          Eddie’s eyes darted everywhere, like a kid in a candy store, wanting to go into every store. You made a mental list of all the shops he wanted to go in but Blair claimed there wasn’t time for it. She was right. Saturday was the only day she didn’t have plans and she was going to spearhead getting him started off right.

          From a cellphone to skincare, dental care, hair products, brushes, nail care, deodorant, cologne, and vitamins. The whirlwind of info Blair dumped on him yet again seemed to be overwhelming him. Then it was onto clothes; shirts, jeans, sweats, boxers, socks, shoes, slippers, sunglass, a wallet, a watch, some new jewelry, and a fashionable messenger bag.

          “I’m done,” Eddie stated intently staring down at the bubbling witch. You had just left all the bags in the car and were at the mall food court.

          “Three more stops Munson.”

          “I’m tapped, Blair, please. Sweets talk to her.”

          “How about lunch, GameDen, tech store, and then music store.”

          “Fine, okay break. Go take burnout to pick a place, I’m gonna go get my food, which I know you don’t like,” she stuck her tongue out at you both before sauntering off.

          “Can I just sit and you get something?” Eddie pleaded.

          “Yeah hun, that’s okay. I’m sure this has got to be overwhelming. But we have been making good time. Blair is going fast but we are almost done. The last few places are more so just for you to look around, okay?”

          “That’ll be nice. I’ll await your revival spell my dear.” Eddie collapsed into the booth, earning him your giggle before you were off. Waiting in line for some Chinese. You kept glancing over at Eddie, who, true to his act, looked passed out at the table.

          “Didn’t know what you liked, so I just kinda got what I like. You’ll have to come with me next time and choose your own, okay?”

          Eddie hummed before sitting up slowly and starting to eat quietly. He must be drained you thought before following suit. Soon Blair plopped next to you with her odd healthy bowls you didn’t care for.

          “Okay, so I was thinking. GameDen and then the guitar. Then we can be done for today. Then you two can go exploring and Eddie can go at his own pace. Because I can tell my speed is too much for him. You’re fine with being dragged around so Eddie can do it to you tomorrow.” Blair stated.

          “Do you just make plans for everyone?” Eddie grumbled.

          “Look mister,” Blair pointed her spork at him. “I brought you into this world and I can take you out. I am just trying to make sure you can be comfortable here. And on my one day I had for myself, so stuff it.”

          “Blair,” you warned. “He’s just tense. It was lovely of you to bring him here. But threatening him isn’t. I love you and I appreciate you giving up your one free day for us to help us settle Eddie here.”

          “See,” Blair gestured to you. “That’s how you handle things. Nicely put someone in their place yet make sure you’re not overlooking your gratitude.”

          “Thank you for dragging me everywhere yet paying for everything and making sure I can be comfortable.” Eddie grouched.

          “Excuse me?” a young girl asked, shyly approaching.

          “What’s up, sweetie?” Blair smiled warmly.

          “I was wondering if I c-could get your au-autograph?” she shoved her notepad towards Eddie.

          “Um, why?” Eddie asked, it wasn’t mean but he looked confused.

          The shy girl started stuttering. “Oh honey, he’s not Joseph. Just a plain American dude. Not the sweet British Mr. Quinn.” You smiled back at her before digging into your purse. “Here, I have some Stranger Things stickers I bought today, but you can have them.”

          “Oh, thank you miss,” the girl bounced off her heels before hugging you with the stickers in hand then running off to her mom with a happy squeal.

          “I thought you wanted to get those for your water bottle?” Blair nudged you.

          “I did, but I didn’t want her to feel so upset. That took her a lot of nerve and I don’t want her to feel discouraged to use it again in the future.”

          “If you weren’t like my sister, I’d be all over you right now.” Blair cooed before going to pinch your cheeks. “Just wanna squish you and eat you all up, you’re so sweet, precious little angel.”

          “Blair!” you whined while swatting away her hands, you could feel your cheeks heating up as you heard Eddie chuckle.

          “That was really nice of you,” Eddie smiled at you when you glanced at him before shyly looking away. “I see why she calls you angel,” he eyed you as light filtered around your figure and you bashfully kept your eyes on your food.

          You didn’t want Eddie to feel like he had to be with you, that he owed it to you or Blair. But he’d have to be crazy to not want someone so understanding and delightful. So here Eddie was, staring at you like you were the one sent here for him, full of love. Then he saw a flash and looked over at Blair.

          “What was that?”

          “Just wanted to take a picture of you. Forgot about the flash.” Blair smiled before dropping her phone back into her little purse.

          “What for?” Eddie eyed her suspiciously.

          “Just for the future, you’ll wanna see it later,” Blair winked before continuing to eat.

          “She likes to take pictures a lot, you’ll get used to it, Eds,” you muttered through a mouthful of food.

          “Eds,” Eddie repeated under his breath softly at the nickname with a lovesick smile.

          GameDen was by far Eddie’s favorite stop. Although new modern stores were cool with all the options and tech, this was his jam. He was downright giddy, happily going off about D&D to you. While you listened and asked occasional questions. He stocked up on all of the game necessities. An arm full of items before begrudgingly putting them into the handbasket you offered. He even made a few friends, because once they saw everything he was getting, they invited him to their party. He couldn’t be a DM for a while, but he’d get to play D&D every week. He got their numbers into his phone. He now had a total of 10 contacts.

          “Gods we were in there forever. I think you’ll have to take him to the tech store tomorrow. Need to get to the music shop before they close.” Blair was complaining but she had a smile. She could never discourage someone’s passions and passionate is definitely what Eddie is.

          “Hey, you got that new board game that looks cool.” You cheered as Blair drove to the final place for the day.

          “That’s true. You got that new Funko Pop of Momomon from Bullet Train, it’ll be so cute up on your wall.”

          “I don’t think I’ll be able to reach it though. Hold the ladder for me?”

          “Eddie should be tall enough.”

          “I don’t wanna-”

          “I’ll do it, Angel, don’t worry about it.” Eddie smiled at you through the rearview mirror and you smiled back timidly.

          Eddie was overwhelmed at this store too. But he just wanted his sweetheart, his guitar. He needed a suitable replacement. He gasped happily when he spotted her.

          “This one has been selling out, think you’re getting the last one before our shipment gets here in a few months.”

          “That’s lucky,” Blair smiled at Eddie.

          “Stranger Things man, reorging the whole world. 80s style is back, Master of Puppets and Running Up That Hill are on the charts all the time now, D&D is even more popular, and fucking mullets’ man.” The cashier rambled while ringing up the guitar, a case, a stand, picks, strings, blank sheet music, and a small amp. “You know you look a bit like one of the characters,” he eyed Eddie for a moment.

          “You know how emo kids didn’t grow out of their scene phases,” she looked down at her gothic outfit, implying she was referring to herself as well, “it’s the same with his guy. Has had the same look since high school,” Blair jabbed a finger at Eddie.

          “Well, you pull it off man, you should take better care of your hair though. Looks frizzy.”

          “I said the same thing, I got him some products to help with it.”

          “He your boyfriend?” the cashier asked while eyeing Blair’s chest.

          “No, high school friends, he moved out here, had to leave everything behind. So, he’s settling in with us. Although I’ll be using him to do double dates with her,” she pointed to you over in the records section. “Along with my girlfriend.”

          “Ah, well, they’d make a cute couple,” his shoulders slumped a bit and dropped all the flirting once he heard Blair had a girlfriend. “Anything else you need to help him restart here?”

          “Know anyone looking for a lead guitarist?” Blair asked.

          “No, but” he grabbed a flyer. “This place holds auditions all the time for when bands are looking for replacements, temps, what have ya.”

          “That’s great, thanks man,” Eddie took it from him and looked it over.

          “Shit, I forgot my purse out in the car, I’ll be right back!” Blair darted out to the car.

          “You gonna ask out your friend? Do you like her?” the cashier, Eddie finally read his nametag, Davon. He followed his gaze to you bobbing to a song on some tester headphones.

          “I’m not sure,” Eddie shuffled from one foot to the other.

          “Give her my number then?” Davon scribbled it down quickly and handed it to Eddie. “She’s cute and shy, they’re always fun, for alone time,” he chuckled.

          “No,” Eddie glared at the offending piece of paper in Davon’s hand. “She’s not some cheap thrill.”

          “You’re right, you’re right, sorry that was rude. Just give it to her, I’ll behave,” he winked at Eddie.

          “You okay, Eds?” you asked popping up next to him placing a hand on his arm.

          “Yeah, yeah, I’m good Angel.”

          You glanced at the paper in the guy’s hand. “Oh, is this for Blair?” you took it and looked at noticing it was a number. “I’m sorry but she’s gay.”

          “Actually, that’s for you, sweet thing, I didn’t know if you were going to come over here, so I was asking your friend here to give it to you, for me.”

          “Oh!” you were flustered, no one had given you their number in years. You sheepishly looked it over. “It’s been years since someone wanted to go on a date with me.” You mumbled.

          “Well, that’s their loss, I’d be happy to,” Davon winked at you and you bit your lip. Eddie’s shoulders slumped. Shit, he couldn’t be that smooth.

          “Oh, I’m sorry, I’m not, I don’t,” you stuttered.

          “She’s not interested, but she’s flattered,” Blair showed up, being your savior, taking the paper outta your hand and giving it back to the cashier. You leaned against her in thanks as Blair quickly tapped her card. “Eddie, grab your sweetheart, and let’s go. I want Starbucks and a movie at home.”

          “Thank you,” you said softly while grabbing some grabs from the cashier as Eddie and Blair grabbed everything else.

          After getting drinks. The car ride home and getting everything into the condo was calm. Eddie and you were drained sitting on his bed, while Blair bounced around, putting things away. Showing him where everything was and where to find it. At one point Eddie tuned out and was softly strumming his guitar.

          “Can we nap?” you whined at Blair who was still putting clothes away.

          “Yeah sweets, almost done. We’ll watch something we’ve seen before and you can fall asleep on me.” She smiled at you over her shoulder. “Edward are you even paying attention.”

          “No,” he muttered. “I’m sorry, I’m done though. I haven’t even been here for 24 hours and I’m having to relearn everything. I need to unwind.”

          “Fine, fine, I’ll go over the hair and hygiene stuff later. Do what you want for now. Me and Angel here will be watching a movie. Come join us later or crash in here until dinner, okay?”

         The library was silent, as it should be, while you studied. Cramming for another test, it wasn’t that you weren’t smart. But not an honor student by any means either. Got to transfer to a new and better college due to earning more scholarships to pay for it. Excelling at written exams and essays. Getting good grades, once you were able to wrap your head around something.

         When you’re able to, being key. And right now, you were struggling, 9 PM at night, alone. Meaning the Human Anatomy test that was impending on you for tomorrow morning was more than troublesome. Bones, organs, no problem. The name of every muscle, tendon, joint, cartilage, an anvil hanging over your head would seem less intimidating than trying to memorize every name they were given.

         “I’m going to fail this test and have to repeat the class,” you sighed in defeat. Holding your heavy head, trying to fight off crying out of frustration.

         “Need help?” you jumped, not knowing anyone else was here.

         Clenching your shirt, trying to sedate your heart for a moment. Glazing up at the man who spoke to you. Tousled brown hair, slate blue eyes, beautifully sharp jawline with a sly smirk.

         “If you can,” turning the book towards him. “Human Anatomy. Test in the morning. Anything to help me just skate by, I’d be very grateful.”

         “Yeah, no problem,” he sat down next to you. Glancing at all of your notes before turning to a page in the book. “Let’s start here.” You nodded before grabbing a blank notebook and following along.

         “I can’t thank you enough,” you sighed stretching some then offering your hand and name.

         “Bucky,” he shook your hand before dropping it. “You got enough to pass; I think. Seemed like you were just overthinking instead of letting it in.”

         “I’ve been told that before,” a dry chuckle. “Goodness, it’s already 11 PM. Is there anything I can do to thank you for your help and time?”

         “How about a date tomorrow night?” His smile was so charming as he tilted his head, almost knowing. But when you hesitated, it faltered.

         “O-oh, um,” you had to look away. “Anything else?”

         “What not your type?” He laughed, but there was something smug about it.

         “I don’t really have a type; I just don’t date. Just want to put all my attention into my degree. No drama, no parties.”

         “You could focus better if you relaxed more. Come on, just a lunch date. Nothing serious.”

         Nothing serious?’ You thought to yourself, ‘Oh so he’s player. Of course, he is. Smart, good looking, confident.’

         “Thank you really for all of your help, truly. But I’m not looking for anything, serious or not.”

         “Then I’ll take your number, as your thanks,” he offered his phone for you to type it in. Chewing your lip, you reluctantly took it and entered your info. Then he quickly took it back and called you. “There now we have each other’s numbers. Let me know if you need help on a subject again. I’m an honors student, should be able to help.” He stood up, grunting a bit while stretching.

         Being so disorganized on the subject you hadn’t noticed his metal arm before, as he sat on your left; he saw you eyeing it.

         “I served before coming to college, lost my arm on a mission.”

         “I’m glad you’re okay now. Don’t know what I’d do if you weren’t here tonight.” You smiled at him appreciatively. Noticing the blush on his cheeks before he coughed.

         “Yeah, yeah. S’ no problem,” he takes his jacket before looking at you while you packed up your books and notes. “Text me if you passed instead of thanking me so much,” he said with a laugh.

         “I guess that’s true. I’ll text you my score once I get it.” Slinging your bag onto your shoulders. Bucky was quick to follow by putting his jacket over your bag and arms. “Oh, I’ll be okay. My dorm is close,” you started to take it off.

         He smiled before backing up. “Text me your score. We’ll celebrate or binge on some ice cream, then you can bring my jacket back.” Then he was walking away while you stuttered.

         Sitting outside in the park, with his jacket in your lap, where you’d promise to meet Bucky since he helped you get an 85 on your test. To celebrate is he wanted, but you were weary.

You’d mentioned him to your roommate. Who immediately dived into the stories of The Fuckboy Bucky Barnes. Including one of her own little one-night stands with him.

         ‘Bucky is the best man on campus for sex whenever you want it, whatever you want to explore, he’ll help.’ Her words played over and over in your mind while waiting for him.

         It’d made you almost scared to see him again, you didn’t want to just be another conquest, another story. You’d had a few sexual relations in the past, but nothing crazy, mainly quickies.

         “Hey!” Bucky called out once he was in sight, holding a plastic bag. “Let’s celebrate!” He jogged up then laid out a small blanket then pulled out some Chinese food. “Shit forgot drinks.”

         “This is more than enough, plus I have water. I think you’ve gone overboard. It’s not that important.”

         “We stayed up late studying and it paid off, I think that’s important. If you’re not gonna party and go out, might as well celebrate with a friend!” He smirked while handing you a plate of food.

         “So, friends, just relaxing and celebrating?” You started to pick at the food.

         “Yea!” He said through a mouth full of food, before looking at you. Gulping down the food. “What’s wrong?”

         “Bucky, I do appreciate this, you helping me, enthusiastically wanting to help me in the future subjects. I don’t mean to offend you or anything, but I’d like to be upfront. I got to hear about some of your,” you paused glancing away from him. “Um, your personal actives?” You glance back at him and the serious look on his face made your throat go dry.

         “And?” His voice was hard.

         “I don’t want to be a part of them,” you pushed the food around on your plate. “I don’t mind being your friend, but I don’t want more. I want to make sure you don’t have any alternative motives, I guess? Because you seem like a great guy, but I don’t want jealous girls, drama, heartbreak. I’d love to be just your friend, though.”

         Bucky didn’t answer, he seemed almost sad, maybe a little upset. “So, if I don’t make a move on you. We can be friends?”

         You smiled at him, softly placing a hand on his prosthetic arm. “Yes. I like having friends, but I do want to make college about my degree.”

         “And if you make a move?” He gave you a smug smirk, running his thumb over your hand.

         “Why would I?” you laughed jokingly. “I think I’d value my sanity over hormones.”

         “Well, let me know if you change your mind, doll.” He winked, it made your heart flutter. You rolled your eyes, started eating again.

         Nearing a year of friendship, Bucky had become your best friend. Cuddles on hard days and during movies. Uncontrollable laughter, some petty fights, challenging each other. But he always was there for you, whether it personal or school. Spending a lot of time together in the library, park, and his apartment. His parents made enough, plus him doing service, to where he could live off of campus.

         “I am so done with boys!” You groaned, flopping on Bucky’s couch. Bucky chuckled from the kitchen, heating up some pizza for both of you.

         “Told you he just wanted in your pants.”

         “Yeah, yeah, you were right,” you sighed sitting up as he handed you a plate of the warmed-up pizza. “You’re a fuckboy, but you still understand I only wanted to be friends.”

         Bucky nodded while chewing his pizza before it hit him. “Wanted, past tense?”

         “Oh, um, want, wanted, yeah, ya know whatever.” You shrugged before picking your food back up and focusing on the show he had on.

         He put his plate on the coffee table, turning his body to face you a bit more. “Ya know if we’re talking about past tense things. I was a fuckboy,” he huffed when you snorted. “It’s true!”

         “Uh-huh, I saw a girl leave your apartment like a week ago on my way up. You don’t need to lie to me Bucky. I don’t care who you fuck-“

         “Well, I do!” he cut you off with a shout, startling you.

         “What?”

         “That girl that you saw, she came to ask for sex. I said no. I care who I fuck. And I care who you fuck too!”

         You scoffed, “I’ve been with like a handful of guys-“

         “But you’d rather fuck a stranger than me! Like you did two months ago!” He was so upset; visibly shaking.

         “I never told you that!”

         “I had to find out from your roommate when I came to pick you up for brunch!”

         “Bucky! That’s enough!” he froze at you yelling back. “Just talk to me, enough yelling. Let’s talk like the adults we are.” You placed your plate next to his and turned to face him as well. “What is this all about? Where did all of this come from?”

         He closed his eyes pinching the bridge of his nose trying to calm down. After letting out a deep sigh, he dropped his hand before reaching out to you. Hesitating for a moment before you went into his embrace. Squeaking when he pulled you into his chest, pressing your head into his chest. His heart was pounding.

         “I love you, ___,” he sighed kissing the top of your head. “I have for months. But I knew if I continued to see girls and didn’t let them all know why fully ahead, you’d distant yourself. I know you don’t want drama.

         “So, about 5 months ago, I broke off all of the regulars, let them know I wanted to be in a relationship so I needed to stop. There was only one who went crazy, but she calmed down after a few months. The girl you saw leaving last week, I turned her down. Honest. But we did talk. I’m not a fuckboy or player anymore, more of a sexual counselor; it feels like.” He gave a dry chuckle while starting to rub your back.

         “I’m a safe person to talk to about kinks and sexual fantasies, I just guide them, if they want. Tell them how to be safe, offer knowledge on toys. But that’s all. I lied to you when we started being friends, I did have an alternative motive. I’ve always liked you, saw you around on campus before. I was so stoked when I found you alone in the library. When you said you didn’t want to be like that. I thought you’d come around. But you never made a move.

         “We both let down our walls, we became close. And for the first time in my life, I didn’t feel like a piece of meat. I didn’t feel the want to have sex with just anyone. All because of you. I want the happiness I have when you’re nearby. When we laugh and argue, cuddling during movies. I love it when you’re having a bad day, clinging to me.”

         “Buck-“

         “Said you’re done with boys. I promise to be a man. I’ll help you with your degree, I won’t take that focus from you. Let me be around more, hold you more.”

         “I’m not sure if I feel the same way,” you whispered pulling back, pushing off his chest. But as you met his cerulean eyes, the sincerity there sparked something you buried long ago. “But I know I care for you deeply. I feel safe with you, emotionally and physically.” You looked away feeling the heat rising into your cheeks.

         Bucky leaned forward placing a hand on the back of your neck, tipping your head back to have you look at him again. Leaning forward, making your breath hitch slightly. “Let me take care of you,” he gently brushed his lips across yours. Your fist gripped onto his shirt.

         “Show me you can,” it came out nearly as a whine. Somewhere in your brain, you had small flashes of previous partners. And knew already, whether Bucky would live up to his old title, or not. You’d find a new pleasure tonight, simply by it being Bucky and how much he cared for you.

         Bucky’s eyes softened the hunger in them. Before easily maneuvered you into his lap then stood up. Your arms and legs clung to him along with a scared yelp.

         “I won’t drop you doll,” he smirked that cocky smirk of his. Adjusting you up high on his muscled form, before brushing his lips against yours. His metal fingers dug into your thigh, to keep you up, as he used his other hand to open the door to his room.

         With a kick of his foot the door closed and he gently sat you down on the edge of his bed. Kissing you passionately, gripping the back of your neck to angel and deepen the kiss. Breaking away with a pant, kneeling in front of you, making you gulp nervously. “I’m not going to stop, unless you tell me to.” Unfastening your jeans, watching you for any sign of discomfort, discarding your pants and underwear.

         Biting your lip, to stop the whimper in your throat as he skirted kisses from your knee to your thigh. Spreading your thighs as his lips traveled to your core. A soft groan from him as saw the slick starting drip from you.

         “Lay back, doll, I’m gonna take very good care of you,” he simpered while tugging your thighs, pulling you closer. A soft laugh left you as flopped back on his bed.

         Gently running his thumb over your folds, “shit doll.” He grunted at the soft slip of your labia. Words died in your throat as he flattened his tongue against you.

         The pound of your blood in your ears muffling his groans and sweet words, so sweet, better than I dreamed. Fisting twisting into his sheets as his tongue lapped at your slit then prodded inside you. Your bundle of nerves throbbed as he devoured your core, waiting for your first broken sob before sucking on it harshly.

         As your hips started to ride his face, he hooked his arms under your legs then laced his fingers together over your stomach. Anchoring you down, before circling your clit with his tongue. Fragments of his name tumbled from your lips as a fire expanded in you. One hand clinging to his bedding.

         “I gotcha ya, let go,” his words were muffled between his assault on your folds. A hand gripped his soft locks as he started to fuck his tongue into you. Curling and twisting it, grunting and moaning against you as you tried to pull away.

         “I-I can’t,” a high whine fell from you as he shook his head slightly, growling against you.

         “Yes, you can,” he adjusted to weigh his metal arm across your thrashing hips. Freeing a hand to thrust two fingers inside you. Twisting them and his wrist, searching for that patch inside you. A high mewl of his name let him know where it was. He started to hit it precisely.

         “There you go,” you whimpered as you clenched down on his fingers. “I know, I know, just like that baby.”

         Backing arching off his bed as he pulled your clit back into his mouth, the fire spread everywhere. Locking your muscles and thighs around his head, as you keened, helping you ride out your orgasm. Lapping at your juices along with soft strokes of his fingers. Only letting you go after you collapse back down.

         The heat and blur of your mind vaguely let you notice being moved to the middle of the bed. Your eyes focused on Bucky as he was discarding his shirt, which you soaked down the front. A wave of embarrassment hit you, as you watched your slick drip off his chin.

         Giving you a crooked smirk, “I knew you could do it for me.” Bucky pushed down his shorts, but stopped at his boxers, cursing softly. “Doll, I don’t have any condoms, used them up then didn’t buy more while getting clean for you.”

         Your eyes raked down his body, the rigid outline of his cock against his boxers was downright sinful.

         “Don’t look at me like that,” he grumbled. “Been wanting you to look at me for so long, fuck.” He ran his fingers through his hair before climbing over you.

         “Like what?”

         “Like you want me to make you scream my name,” he ground his erection against you.

         “Bucky,” you sighed. He huffed before pulling you up to rid of your shirt and bra. Kissing along your neck, kneading your breast. Pulling soft pants from you.

         “Shit, doll. Finally got a taste of you and it’s not enough. I need to be buried in your cunt.” He pushed down his boxers, nudging at your folds with the tip. “Fuck, she wants me too, already trying to suck me in.”

         Wrapping your legs around his waist, you tried to pull him closer. “Make me scream your name,” you kissed him softly.

         “Fuck, I love you.” His mouth clashed against yours, needy. All tongue and soft bumps of teeth. While gathering your hands to pin them above your head with his metal hand. Teasingly letting his dick gather your slick against your opening. “I’ll get you Plan B later,” he mumbled into the kiss.

         You pressed your heels into his ass, “Bucky just fuck me already.”

         He froze, “do you love me?” You whined as he pressed against your core. “Promised myself the next cunt I would be in, would be the last. I’ve got my heart set on it being yours.” Your heart constricted at his words, that was a long-time commitment. Very different from his old, “nothing serious” tone.

         Everything you’d ignored or buried over the past year came back full force. Every sweet gesture, all the bickering, the late study nights. Very memory, had the ardor his eyes held now. Your eyes watered with the influx of sentiments and reminiscences, of your best friend, now lover.

         His eyebrows knitted together, concerned as your eyes brimmed with unshed tears. Watching your mouth open but no words come out, before you sniffle a bit. Nodding your head ‘yes’ and doing your best to sit up. Smashing your lips against his, in urgency to convey your affections.

         Your head fell back down to the bed with a moan of his name as he drove into your twitching canal. A cuss and your name are stammered out from him. “Oh doll, you’re perfect.”

         “T-thick,” was all you could choke out. Between the smoldering pleasure and fermented emotions reconstructing. Your brain couldn’t register thoughts from the onslaught of feelings, mentally and physically. But his chuckle brought some coherency.

         “Not even all the way in yet,” the sultry gasps that left your throat were so foreign as he snapped his hips forward. To the hilt, your spasming walls betrayed you, instead of trying to extort the strain they were given. You swore she was trying to suck him in deeper.

         Bucky nipped and kissed you everywhere he could, softly rutting into you. Involuntarily moan of his name slipped out as he sucked on your neck. Whatever mental wall he had, crumbled. From the blissful clenching of your cunt to moaning his name. He unraveled.

         Letting go of your wrists, he moved to support himself on one arm. As his flesh hand gripped your hip, lifting you. The next thrust was so sharp and forceful, punched out your breath. Every thrust built, deeper, harder. Your hands clambered for purchase, nails digging into his back. Dragging them down when you’re forced up the bed by the drive of his smashing hips.

         The salacious sound of your copulation could barely be heard over your whines, his grunts, and the creaking of his bed.

         If you felt ablaze before, you were sweltering now. Strangely appealing as your inside wound up, tittering on the edge of blissful release. Sweat slick bodies met in fervor, as you clung to him and he slammed into you.

         You’d missed the majority of his praise, sweet words of love. But hearing his, such a good girl for me, my good girl and a new angle with a rough slap of his hips. Snipped the taut thread inside of you.

         Screaming his name, you went limp with pleasure. Cries from overstimulation, you clutched to him the best you could as he chased his own release. Erratic clenching of your pussy milked his hot spent for every drop she wanted.

         You expected him to pull out and roll over, but the weight of his body pressed you deeper into bliss as he peppered your face with kisses. Wasn’t until he was fully soft did he pull out, a soft whine and hiss from you both at the loss.

         “I love you, Bucky,” you breathed before he leaned down with a tender smile to kiss you as your eyes feathered close from exhaustion.

         “I know, doll, now let me take care of you.”

         And he did, a shower, some water, and a light snack later. You were laid in his bed. The last thing you remember for the night is him crawling under the covers with you. Wrapping you in his arms.

         Never had you felt more at peace or at home, than you did there. Cradled in his embrace.

Author’s Note: continued  

I’ve been reading a lot of College, Roommate, and Fuckboy Bucky AU’s. Which usually turns to Bucky being soft for his girl in fics. And I fucking love it. I’m a sap for it. If you need recommendations for any of these fics. I can recommend a few authors whose master lists I’ve binged. Darcy, Amy, Nora, and Bee. There are clearly other amazing author’s out there who are not listed, but these are the ones I have read, loved, and binged before and likely will do again. All of their names are links to their Masterlist, as I’m not comfortable tagging people who didn’t ask for it.

          Warmth was all you could feel for a while, slowly waking up. It was so wonderful you fought the slow waking of your brain. You were so comfortable that you almost didn’t want to wake up. You curled your fingers into Blair’s shirt, nuzzling into her. “I feel a lot better, thanks sis,” you murmured.

          “She went to pick up the food,” Eddie breathed softly, flinching when you sat up quickly. “I came out but you were asleep. Blair said she didn’t wanna pay delivery fees so she went to go get the pizza. Told me to take her place.” He spewed quickly in defense.

          “Oh, okay,” you looked away. You cuddled into him so blindly, fuck, could you be any more desperate looking? You groaned internally at yourself while silence settled between you.

          Eddie sighed while looking at you. “I didn’t mind, um, holdin’ you. If you wanna come back?” he opened his arms tentatively. When you looked at him through your lashes he melted and gave you a lopsided grin. Chuckling softly as you tenderly lay your head on his shoulder, sighing when his arm wrapped around your waist.

          “The movie is over.” You reached over Eddie a bit to the side table to get the remote. “You wanna pick somethin’?” you held it to him.

          “Um, how ‘bout you go through movies you like and I’ll pick one of ‘em?” you nodded and went to your list and scrolled through it. Giving small non-spoiling synopsis of every one you paused on. After watching a few trailers Eddie picked Zombieland, which you told him was a mix of comedy and gore/horror.

          Eddie liked this, it felt natural, the most natural he’d felt since he got here. Holding you, watching a movie. Your voice drift through his thoughts, the first time he had heard it, from Blair, while running for his life. You had been the first comfort he had in a long time and now, he had it. First time in all his life, he felt wanted and safe.

          A close second, for him to feeling natural and comfortable, would be him talking about and playing D&D and getting supplies for it. And any time he was able to fully memorize and shred out a song perfectly.

          He was engrossed in the film, only noticing his wandering hand when you gave a sharp inhale. His thumb was rubbing small circles on your hip and had carelessly dipped into the waistband of your sweats. He mumbled an apology and rested it back on your soft plush side.

          “Aw, you two are so cute, watching a fun movie,” Blair called out while trying to balance the pizza in one hand and free her keys from the doorknob with the other. A liter of soda already sat on the floor.

          You popped up and went to rescue the food before she dropped it. “We need to get that replaced. When I go to make a copy of my keys for Eddie, I’ll make you one too.” You picked up the pop and put everything on the counter.

          Eddie had gotten up, aimlessly following you. “What happened to her key?”

          “Had my keys laced through my fingers for protection while in a dimly lit parking lot.” Blair got out plates while you poured soda. “Some creep got the worse end of the damage, but my key is bent now and likes to keep fighting. Mainly with the door.” She shrugged and handed a plate with two slices of pizza on it to Eddie.

          “Does that happen a lot? Roaming creeps.” He started eating.

          “Especially for beautiful faces such as ours,” Blair swept her clean hand under your jaw then her own. “But yeah, girls gotta be careful. Angel here doesn’t go anywhere dark without someone, doesn’t work nightshifts, go clubbing, she’s safe. A bit boring, but safe.”

          “Hey, now!” you protested while chewing, swallowing quickly. “I got mugged once and I’m not gonna let it happen again. I’ve got my taser and I’ve never really liked the dark anyways,” you muttered.

          “Yeah, I know, nightlight,” Blair snorted.

          “Hey, my fairy lights and moon set a wonderful mood and are gorgeous.”

          “Well, now we have another person for you to climb into bed with when the power goes out.” You whimpered slightly. “I mean when I’m not here, which has been more, due to Meredith.”

          “Well luckily, we haven’t had a storm knock out the power since you’ve been dating Mer.”

          “Maybe you’ll get lucky anyways, Eddie,” Blair winked at him before whining at your hand playing smacking her arm.

          “I don’t mind,” Eddie shrugged with a mouthful of pizza. “If you ever need someone to hold you, that is. No matter the reason.”

          “Well, it’s my job first, you’re second,” Blair stuck her tongue out at him.

          “For now,” Eddie chuckled at Blair’s shocked expression.

          “Okay, eat, children,” you mumbled.

          “Okay, mom, God you sound just like her.” You rolled your eyes at her. “You even roll your eyes the same way!” Blair pointed at you and you both giggled for a moment.

          The rest of the night was simple, as leftovers were put away, and the three of you were relaxing on the couch. Another movie, Eddie had forgotten the name of it already. When Eddie caught Blair looking over at him, a lot.

          “What?” Eddie squinted at her.

          “Can I go over the hair and skincare stuff now? You’ll probably wanna shower before bed, right?”

          Eddie groaned throwing his head back. “I’ll come with, I’ve gotta clear space for your stuff anyways.” You patted Blair’s leg before getting up to go do so.

          “What?”

          “You’re sharing a bathroom with her; I’ve got my own.”

          “Why do you have your own?”

          “Because this is my condo? I get the master suite, as I’m the master of my home,” Blair wiggled while sitting up very straight. “But I’m not a dictator, if you wanna change anything, just ask first, please. Girly here did when she wanted the shelving installed for all her collectibles. Dad came over and did it for us, so I know it’s secure. As long as it’s not too damaging and easy to fix, I likely won’t care.”

          “So, if I wanted to paint my room?” Eddie smiled slyly.

          “Maybe once I know you’re staying here. But, if all goes to my plan, you won’t be in that room very long anyways. But feel free to nail stuff up and whatever.”

          “Where else would I stay if not in the guest room?” Blair’s smile widened looking towards your room, Eddie followed her gaze. “You expect that to happen fast?” he chuckled.

          Blair heaved dramatically before flopping back into the couch. “No, not with her. Always said no man that existed would fall for her. She’s been hung up on you for months, which is longer than any other character. But I have a feeling, now that you do exist, she’ll think you can do better.”

          “So, she doesn’t want me now that I’m here?”

          “No, she does. She’ll just push you to get out there, explore, and possibly date other people. Because why would you want her? She’s,” Blair paused, chewing her lip for a moment, “she’s complacent, she has her routine, things she’s does. She’s stagnated,” Blair dropped her voice to a whisper. “She’s boring, she doesn’t really do anything.”

          “There’s nothing wrong with that, she’s so sweet, caring.”

          “I know that, you clearly see it even after one day with her. But she knows you’re fun, you’re playful. She thinks people who are meant to be together, their energies have to match. She’s seen it with our parents and then me and Mer.”

          “But you and her get along so well, and you’re opposites.”

          “Her defense on that, is we’re sisters. She doesn’t have anyone else, no other friends. I’m not sure why, but so many people never connect with her. They just leave, she says it’s because she has nothing to offer.”

          “Having someone care about you so much? Someone who wishes for your safety and happiness? How is that nothing?”

          “It’s not!” Blair smiled at Eddie brightly. “Just don’t get discouraged if she shuts down your advances at first. If she tells you to date, other people. Just don’t give up on her, please. She needs to see opposite energies can balance each other. She needs your light Eds.”

          Eddie nodded softly while Blair clasped his hands, “as long as I know she likes me back, I won’t.”

          “Perfect,” she smiled and sat back from him as you came back.

          “Got a corner and shelf cleared out for all the jazz you bought him.”

          Blair smiled and pulled up Eddie from his spot while he jokingly dragged his feet. And to his credit, he did pay attention. While Blair pulled things from the bags, explained what it was, and how to use it, then handed to you to put away. But he was glad you were paying attention as well, to help him, remind him later if he forgot.

          Eddie got a shower with little confusion. But when he came out, he was alone. Damp hair, a plain black shirt, clean underwear and socks, and gray sweats. He wandered the kitchen and living room for a moment. Before remembering a sweet you had bought him when he eyed it for a few seconds. He went through the bags on the counter until he found it.

          He hummed at the flavor before jumping slightly when you came out. Seeing you scan the room before grabbing your water thermos, freezing when you saw him.

          Oh, he looked so good, cleaned, relaxed, damp curls beautifully smooth, and fucking hell, Blair that bitch. Gave him grey sweatpants, a blessing, and a curse, as you felt your heart rate increase along with the temperature of your skin. Your knees felt weak. When you finally looked back into his eyes, you could see a faint pink on his cheeks. Eye blew wide. He had been checking you out too. In your tank top, braless, and in sleep shorts.

          “Is it good?” you asked softly, eyeing the candy in his hand. Timidly crossing your arms across your chest when he glanced down at the treat.

          “S’good,” he muttered. He broke off a piece and held it out to you.

          “No, no, it’s okay I’ve had it before. You enjoy it.” You shook your head with a smile.

          “I can always get another, right?” you nodded slowly. “Then come here before it melts in my hand.” Your teeth worried your lip as you slowly walked over and went to take it from him. But he smirked, holding it up out of your reach. “It’s melted a bit,” he moved it towards your mouth.

          You felt like you were going to catch fire as you slowly opened your mouth. Eddie’s smile just grew, to show his dimples while he placed the piece tenderly into your mouth. “Good girl,” he chuckled slightly when you shivered.

          “We’ve got a big day tomorrow,” you whispered. “Blair will be on a long date with Mer tomorrow. So, it’ll be just me and you. To do the last errands. But it’s only the tech and thrift store. Then we go wherever you wanna go.”

          “It sounds like a wonderful date of our own,” Eddie reached for you, to cup your cheek, grunting lightly when you move away.

          “It’s just errands,” you looked down at your feet.

          “Then after the errands, we can do a date-like thing.” Eddie took a wide step to be in front of you and placed his hand on the counter next to you.

          “You want to?” you looked at him quickly before looking away.

          Eddie slowly moved to cup your jaw, pushing your head up, willing you to hold his gaze. “I’d love to.” He smiled as he felt the burn under your skin and brushed his thumb across your cheekbone.

          “What would you wanna do?”

          “Just be with you, check out a couple of stores, take me to a couple of your favorite places. Make sure when we eat, it’s quiet enough for us to talk.”

          You felt like your knees were going to buckle from his intense stare alone. But then the soft stroke of his rough thumb on your skin sent a tingle down your spine. You got lost in his eyes, watching him, studying the warm brown irises. Soft gold-like flecks. “Golden chocolate,” you muttered before pulling away and slapping a hand over your mouth. Realizing too late you’d said it out loud.

          Eddie’s heart stuttered at your compliment then shy retreat. He gripped your shirt and then pulled you back to him. Gently removing your hand and kissing your cheek. “You’re so sweet,” he chuckled bumping his nose to yours before straightening his back. Trailed his knuckles over your jaw shyly.

          You swallowed hard when he trailed down your neck slightly. He pulled away with a smug smile. “We should get some sleep,” his tongue swiped over his lip briefly, at your vulnerable look. “Goodnight, Angel.”

          “G’night, Eds,” you whispered as he retreated to his room. Once his door closed, you sank to the floor and pulled out your phone from your waistband where it had been tucked. Texting Blair.

          ‘I have a date tomorrow.’

          ‘If it’s not the boy I literally brought here for you. I’m gonna murder you.’

          ‘He’s not a boy, he’s a man.’

          ‘Yea yea. You need help picking out a dress?’

          ‘If you’re not too tired.’

          You stared at your screen for a moment, waiting for her to reply.

          “Never too tired to help you,” Blair spoke up next to you and you squeaked in surprise. “What you doin’ down there?” she smiled knowingly.

          “My knees buckled.”

          “Oof,” Blair reached down and pulled you up. “He’s gotta be good if he did that without even impaling you.”

          “Blair!” you whined at her crude statement.

          “Oh shush, let’s go get pick out your outfit. Somethin’ to hug those gorgeous curves.”

          Eddie only slept for a few hours before heading out to the living room. Decided to watch his show, Stranger Things, but he would be stopping before Season 4. He kinda didn’t wanna watch himself on screen, by himself. Honestly, he wanted to watch it with you, see where he makes you laugh. Still not sure if he wanted to see his death or not. Watching from the beginning, let him learn so much about his town, the boys, and even see where Henderson got his attachment to Harrington.

          He was a few episodes in when Blair came out. “Couldn’t sleep?”

          “I have a hard time without smoking and being in a new place.”

          “I’ll get you some real grass, instead of Angel’s gummies then. But tobacco is a big no, better to quit cold turkey, okay?”

          “As long as I’ve got somethin’ to smoke,” he grumbled before lying back down on the couch.

          “Liking it so far?”

          “It’s insightful, knowing more about my town and the people in it.”

          “I mean the story, silly.” Blair rolled her eyes while making a pot of coffee.

          “Oh yeah, it’s cool, I understand why it’s a hit.”

          Blair wasn’t fully awake yet so she gave him a soft hum while pouring her coffee. “Mornin’ babs,” she eyed you while you stumbled out in your sleep clothes. Smiling when she noticed you didn’t see Eddie.

          Sitting at the island, mocking a line from the show. “With her mind!” You mimicked Dustin and both you and Blair started giggling before you willed your eyes to open and look at her. “Pour me a cup?” you pleaded, not seeing or hearing Eddie laxing on the sofa, peering at you both from over the top of it.

          “Lazy,” she teased you. “You okay?”

          “No, Trustee died last night, new batteries didn’t work either. Now I feel all grumpy, pent up.”

          “I’ve been telling you to replace him for years.”

          “He was so good though.”

          “Well, now you can get a new one. Take Eddie with you.” Blair chuckled.

          “I will not!” you declared to her. “I’ll find something online. I think I’d melt if I took him with me there,” you said incredulously.

          “Who died and where won’t you take me?” Eddie sat up. Laughing when you jumped and spun to look at him.

          “Her favorite toy and a sex store,” Blair stated calmly while sliding you your coffee.

          “You were trying to get off last night? What’s wrong with a sex store?” Eddie paused the show and scrambled over to come to tease you.

          “Yes,” you muffled while taking a swig of your drink, to answer the first question. “And I’m barely comfortable going in there alone, let alone with, well um, anyone else really.”

          “Not true,” Blair sang. “We got together all the time.”

          “No! You drag me with you to get new things for you and Mer.”

          “It’ll be easier to go together than alone, right?” Eddie smiled at you.

          “No, because I don’t know what I want and I’m gonna take forever and…and…” you trailed off as you met his eyes. The hunger in them sent warmth pooling directly into your stomach.

          “And?” Blair giggled. “Not sure if you’ll need a replacement when you’ve got-”

          “Blair!” you balled up a paper and threw it at her.

          “What?” Eddie’s eyes shined playfully while looking between both of you.

          “When she’s got a chance at the real thing. I mean it’s why she wanted to get off in the first pl-” Blair was cut off by your desperate fumble to her side and covering her mouth. The two of you wrestled playfully before she got you turned around. Pinning your arms to your side in a tight hug, making sure you’re facing Eddie. Soft and mortified eyes clinging to his, in a silent beg to have him forget all of this.

          “Toys are always fun,” Eddie shrugged, looking away from you. He wanted to keep teasing you, but if he didn’t stop now, he’d wanted to do other things with you as well. Your beautiful helpless eyes were doing things to him.

          “See, nothing wrong. Eds probably would like some for himself as well.” Blair spun you out of her arms, you huffed, and gripped the edge of the counter stopping yourself.

          “Fine, we’ll go,” you glanced at the clock on the wall. “Aren’t you going to breakfast with Meredith?”

          “Oh shit!” Blair dropped her cup in the sink and bolted to the door. “Love you, have fun, be safe, and get key copies!” Blair spouted while tugging on her jacket, and grabbing her purse, phone, and keys. Then she was gone with a slam of the door.

          “Eggs and toast good for breakfast?” you asked while getting said things.

          “Perfect, Angel.” Eddie sat at the island and watched you flit about the kitchen.

          Eddie was enthralled with all the new technology. Games, computers, TVs, music. You took him over to the record players, picking out a simple one. Getting him headphones as well, over the ear with Bluetooth, but that could plug into his amp for in-depth yet quiet playing.

          Thrift store was like a buried treasure cove for his clothes. Pants, band shirts, some vintage things from the 80s he adored, and even a new leather jacket. His current didn’t take well the lake water and got stiffer. He fonder over the chunky rings in the display case, giddy when you got him a couple as well. Across the street, there was a kiosk to copy keys; you made ones for him and Blair.

          You took him to your favorite café, getting overstuffed sandwiches made with fresh bread and ingredients. Eddie watched you quietly as you both ate. Soft conversation easing between you.

          “You look lovely in that dress,” he’d stopped and stared at you a few times while in the stores. But realized he needed to voice it, instead of just staring at you when you weren’t looking.

          “Oh, thank you,” you bashfully smoothed a wrinkled bit on your lap. “You look nice too.”

          “Well, most of my clothes are to Blair’s taste, so we should thank her.” You both laughed and finished eating in comfortable silence.

          “Where do you wanna go after here?”

          “To start our date?” Eddie smiled as you grinned with a slight nod. “Today has been great, especially compared to yesterday. Everything was so rushed and Blair just took control. But with you,” Eddie reached across the table and took your hand. “None of it has felt like errands or chores, being just with you, it’s a lot nicer.”

          Cautiously you laced your fingers with his. “I normally don’t like going out and about, it drains me. But I haven’t felt that with you, it’s been very pleasant.”

          “Let’s go to that adult store then we can wander in the mall.”

          You sighed heavily, “okay, to Creamy Dreams we go.”

          Eddie snorted and started laughing. “That’s the name of the sex store?!” he was near wheezing with laughter. You giggled at his guffawing, smiling while watching him. Dimples, smiles, and laugh lines. You could watch him forever.

          What had been an easy day, was now beyond stressful. Eddie had been watching you intently the whole time you were there. He wasn’t rushing you but you felt pressured. Silently in your shadow, watching your every rigid movement.

          “Why don’t you go look for something for yourself?” you suggested.

          “I will in a bit, just trying to gauge what you like.”

          “How about I get what I want and I show you later? You’re stressin’ me out.”

          “Why’s that?” Eddie encroached into your personal space, pulling you towards him. Pressing his front into your side.

          “Are you two looking for couples’ toys?” a young man came up with a proud smile. “They’re on the other side. I’d be happy to recommend something. Don’t mean to overstep, but it seems like a dom and sub relationship. So perhaps a toy for him to control?” he tilted his head looking at you two lovingly.

          “Oh, we’re, we’re,” you started stumbling over your words as Eddie’s grip tightened on you. You looked up to him for help, like you do with Blair.

          “We’re not dating, yet. I just love teasing her. Her favorite toy died, so she needs a replacement.”

          “Oh, I apologize for assuming. Do you have an image of it and I can give you a few recommendations?”

          “Oh, yeah,” you pushed away from Eddie a bit to get your phone out of your purse. Elbowing him playfully as he tried to look at your screen as you got to the image. Nervously showing it to the clerk, Ket, who whistled.

          “I like it, sorry he died on you. I’ve got the perfect thing to replace him and it’s rechargeable. Do you need any help, sir?” Ket looked to Eddie now.

          “Just wanna look around, point me to the section for my solo play?” Ket smile and pointed to the opposite wall. Eddie smiled at you as you anxiously followed Ket.

          Ket wasn’t lying, he had the perfect replacement and even suggested a few new items to pair for those days you were having a hard time reaching your peak. “How that I’ve earned your trust back with these beauts,” he gestured to the items in the basket he filled for you. “I can tell you really like that man you came in here with.” His smile grew when you shifted from foot to foot. “Could I interest you in some couple toys or lingerie for the future?”

          You bit your lip, looking around, unable to see Eddie you gave Ket a quick bob of your head. “Maybe both?” you looked down and dug your foot into the floor a bit.

          “Oh, I know what will suit you with that reserved personality. Come on, take my hand, trust me,” Ket hummed as you did so. “You know, my husband and I barely use toys, but when we do, it’s always special. But I help tons of people every day, of every personality type. But sweet things you like, are still so rare. What I’m gonna give you, might scare you a bit, but I promise he’ll shred it off you. And if he doesn’t, come back, I’ll give you two free toys.” He cackled as you gasped in embarrassment.

          You nervously tapped your foot as Ket rang up your purchase. Eddie came up right as you were paying, everything already in a discreet black bag. “Find what you needed?” Eddie asked you.

          “And then some,” Ket winked playfully. “Did you find anything you want, sir?” Eddie was now a bit shy while placing a few items on the counter. “See I knew you were a dom,” Ket chuckled to himself as he rang up the leather handcuffs, restraints, blindfold, lube, some other bottles you didn’t get to read, and pocket pussy.

          “You’ll show me what you got, right?” Eddie whispered darkly in your ear as you reeled back and shook your head. “Oh, come on, you said you would,” Eddie leered. “Show me at least your replacement?” you nodded hesitantly. “Okay, I’ll take it for now.”

          Eddie paid with the card Blair had given him, teasingly offering to carry your bag for you.

          “Now the mall, right?” Eddie breathed deeply while getting into the passenger side.

          “Wherever you want Eds,” you smirked before starting up the car and clicking on your seat belt.

          “Don’t wanna stop wandering around with you. So yeah mall,” Eddie placed his hand on your thigh, just above your knee. “Wanna get some ice cream too, they’ve got that there, right?”

          “’Course they do,” you smiled.

          Wander you did, Eddie collected some more band tees. And a few hoodies, a couple sizes bigger, a note from Blair, so that they’d fit you for sure, as you should be stealing them. Once you let him in your heart fully that is. A few other places you browsed together before getting some shakes.

          “Okay, so tell me something about this Joseph Quinn? Since he played me.”

          “He’s British, 28. So technically you are too now. I think he has naturally curly hair, but it’s short. Normally has a beard, I’ve seen him with glasses a few times. He seems like a goof but very nice. They cast him as you, very well. He’s gotten an outpour of support, love, and fans. Eddie is a loved character and there was a lot of anger at the Duffer brothers for killing him.”

          “It’s really weird to hear someone talk about me as if I don’t exist,” Eddie muttered.

          “Oh! I’m so sorry Eddie, I didn’t mean to, I just started rambling. I mean on the bright side of all this, Blair is getting your birth certificate, high diploma, social security, driver’s license, credit history, passport, and all that. You’ll be ready to live your life however you want. And of course, you’re more than welcome to stay with us as long as you want. There is no rush to you getting a job or moving out.”

          “Angel, breathe, it’s okay,” Eddie chuckled and patted your knee. “So, I’m not some Super Senior, trailer trash loser here?”

          “No, Eddie, no. We dragged you here and we’ll give you a fair shot at life. Yeah, you were a Super Senior and a nerd there. But I never would have thought of you as trailer trash or a loser. You’re a sweetheart, a goofball, a non-conformist, loved, talented, soft-hearted, eccentric, passionate, playful, a jokester, and a courageous person.” You bit your lip and then looked up at him, realizing you were probably going overboard on the compliments.

          “I don’t know if I’ve ever been called any of those things,” his eyes were on you but soft, amorously. “Blair gave me a lot of knowledge to help me fit in here. But in that, she also shared a lot of her memories of you with me. So, you feel like you know me and I feel like I know you.”

          “Yeah, but Blair is biased, her memories of me are probably rose-tinted,” you gave a tight-lipped smile. “She’s become my protector, my safe harbor, and the person I dote on. Of course, she’d only have good things to remember or say about me.”

          “Not all good, memories. She gave me the bad ones too, your fights, your breakdowns, all of it. Your cute flaws. I think it was to show me all your sides, to understand you more.”

          “Eddie,” you whispered to get him to meet your eyes. “You don’t need to know me, understand me. You owe me nothing. Because let’s be honest here,” you sat up and tucked your knees away from him. His hand dropped. “If you weren’t dragged here because of me if we naturally existed in the same universe. You never would have noticed me. I’m no Chrissy or anyone you’ve crushed on before.

          “I might seem like your only option, with Blair being in a relationship and gay, but I’m not. You have to know, you’re very loved in this world. And just about any fan would love a chance at talking with you. You’re amazing. I’m not. I really loved today, but you should look at all your options before settling on this.” You gestured to yourself, your figure, before taking another drink of your shake. Looking away from his sad doe eyes.

          Eddie’s heart clenched; he was hoping today would make you see how he feels already. He’s never felt this quickly about anyone before. Yet here you were, pushing him away, just like Blair said you would. But he knew better due to her warning. He shuffled to forcible take your hands, entwining your digits together, so you can’t escape.

          “I’ll do whatever the hell I want. And if that means going out and meeting people, I’ll do it. If it means not doing that because I’ve got a hidden gem here right in front of me. So be it. I don’t owe you anything. I understand your worries and I hear you. But being with you, would not be settling!”

          You stared at him wide-eyed. Speechless. Words stuck in your throat with some rebuttal. Mirroring his wistful smile, gulping when he kept glancing at your mauve-painted lips. Wishing to test how good your liquid lipstick was.

          “Fancy seeing you here!” you ripped your eyes away from Eddie to look at your ex, looking as good as you remember. With the girl he cheated on you with, right on his arm, and a pretty engagement ring.

          “Hello Shawn,” you whispered and tugged on your hands with Eddie, trying to pull free, to curl in on yourself. You looked at Eddie shocked when he didn’t let you. Instead, he stood up, a bright smile on his face. He pulled you up with him, only letting go of your hands to tuck you into his side.

          “Eddie!” he introduced himself with a hand straight out. Shawn was clearly taken back but gathered himself quickly and shook Eddie’s hand. “Nice to put a name to a face.”

          “Oh, so she’s told you about me?” Shawn had a smug look as he looked down at you.

          “Nope! Blair did, and I just wanted to thank you.”

          “Thank me?” Shawn sneered.

          “If you hadn’t been a total asshat and left her, I wouldn’t be here with her.” Eddie’s statement rang through you and you could tell he meant it. He was happy Blair brought him here, to be with you. You looked up at him, starry-eyed, totally smitten.

          Shawn saw the way you looked at Eddie and it pissed him off. You never looked at him that way. “Well enjoy her while you can stand her. She’s a good lay, tight, but fucking hell, she’s boring.”

          Both Shawn and his girl were laughing at that. You wanted to hide, feeling shame wash through you. Eddie’s grip tensed on you as he felt anger boil through him and your tug on his arm. That his asshole still had this hold over you to the point you wanted to run away.

          He understood that he’d done it so much, but not now. He’d stand up for you at the very least.

          “Takes one to know one. I assume your description of fun, is pArTiEs~ and drugs. It’ll get old quickly just like your face will from using. And she’ll be timeless and forever loving. I’d take someone who cares deeply about me over frivolous things like that any day. So once again, thanks for being the prick you are.”

          “You’re just some freak who couldn’t get invited to a party if he wanted to!” Shawn jabbed a finger at Eddie’s chest. And before he could respond, you moved to stand between them. Shawn took a surprised step back.

          “And you’re just some dime-a-dozen douche with mommy issues and that needs therapy. But you’re a parasitic narcissist too afraid to do it, to change, so you bury it all with sex and drugs. We might be freaks, but at least we’re not senseless moronic mistakes! Don’t you ever talk to him like that again? Take your tramp and get the fuck outta our faces. You’re not wanted!”

          Shawn was stunned, you had never raised your voice, you were just a pushover who blubbered. The only person he’d ever seen you stand up for was Blair, and now, this, Eddie. Your words stung and the small voice in his head told him, she could never love you the way she does him.

          “Let’s get outta here,” his girl tugged on his arm, and he followed numbly.

          Your shoulders slumped as the adrenaline left you and you turned to look at a flabbergasted Eddie. Surprised eyes scanned yours before a smile crept onto his features, dimples, and teeth adorably on display.

          “Angel,” he cooed with his smirk, resting his hands on your hips. “That was so hot, and you didn’t have to defend me.”

          “You’re not a freak Eddie, I don’t want you thinking you are, especially not here. You deserve that fresh start; I couldn’t let him taint it.”

          “Start fresh, with me?” Eddie’s golden browns searched yours, wanting an answer.

          “Of course, I’ll be here, you live with us,” you smiled at him brightly. “I want you to have a good life. And once you’re settled into some routine and into the things you want to be. We can go on vacations and travel. It’ll be so fun with the three of us, ooh, wait four with Mer.”

          Eddie’s smile slipped for a moment when he realized you didn’t understand what he was asking. But you answered in your thoughtful way. And with that, he understood, you wanted him to be adapted to this world. That you wouldn’t take him until he was. It bothered him almost, but he’d do what he needed to prove to you. Prove that he wasn’t settling on you.

Peace, a word often used in hope, was finally an option now. Ozai locked up. Avatar Aang and Fire Lord Zuko ended the 100 Year War. ___ and Zuko did a quick and small wedding after his coronation. Their wedding was simple yet public to the nation.

Stigmas of all nations were a touchy matter, but everyone seemed like they wanted to thrive in this new world. After declared the end of the war, Zuko learned very quickly that the history taught in schools needed to be changed. Soon he realized this wasn’t enough. The older generations need to be taught the truth as well. As the young tried to teach the old caused more friction in his homeland. Elders and those out of school, all seemed to be prodigious against all outsiders, those of different nations.

The Gaang were off trying to gather all truths of the 100 Year War, from every corner of the planet. Taking a high notation of the brainwashed and propaganda used in the Fire Nation to appease the citizens. They wanted to rewrite history so it was true, not just the tales of the winners. A rare chance, as history is usually written by victorious crusades.

Fire Lord Zuko was doing his best in the meantime, trying to put out word of the need changes of false telling of his forefathers. Some elders were outraged until he brought out living proof of the devastation his nation has caused. Mothers speaking of lost sons, children crying out memories of departed loved ones, burn victims, refugees. Human trafficking that was allowed due to Fire Nation believing they were mighty, enslaving anyone who wasn’t born to their standards.

Although the past few months were brutal waves of truth, they sparked the proudest corners of his heart. Organizations forming to help those who needed it. Funding request to regrow towns, to make orphanages, filing systems to try and reunite lost families. Fire Lord Zuko was exhaustingly busy, helping regrow his nation out of the embers of isolation. But his dedicated wife made everything better.

Truly his safe harbor, his wings. In every situation he fretted over she would give sound options and resource information. The best support he needed, changing and adaptive, loving and caring. And above all; reasonable. Nothing ever too farfetched, nothing too impossible. If he thought her wrong, which was very rare, she’d find something to prove her right.

His wife, his queen, was truly the backbone of his support and his nation. And all while pregnant, so close to the end of her pregnancy, waddling everywhere. Although if anyone brought it up, just even in a joke, they’d be on the floor mid-laugh. Temporarily paralyzed.

With Zuko’s busy schedule he hadn’t been able to attend all of her checkups with the doctors for the pregnancy. But today he made time as he felt like she was hiding something. He knew she did it to protect him, to keep him from worrying, as he was starting to show so many symptoms of being a worrywart father already. Concerned about every movement and discomfort from his beloved spouse.

“Well, my dear, as we thought, we’re going to have to force labor.” The doctor stated calmly while putting his measuring tape away.

“What? Why?” Zuko was frantic.

“Baby has stopped growing, No growth from last week. She’s been small the whole pregnancy but was always on the tip of being just okay. You’ll likely have a very tiny babe.”

“Is it serious?”

“No, it happens, we’ll induce your wife this week just to be safe though. Measurement on the outside can’t be trusted. There’s a very high chance there is nothing wrong with the baby, they’re perfectly healthy. And we’re only inducing one week early, just to be safe.” The doctor patted Zuko’s shoulder, to ease his tension. “You get dressed, the nurse in the lobby will send a message when we’d like to schedule you for delivery.” He smiled at ___ and left.

“Is this what you were hiding? That the baby is small?” Zuko fretted as he helped her off the table

“Yes, but as the doctor said, it happens. It happened to his wife and his cousin. It’s common.” She took off the flimsy gown used for checkups, speaking as earnestly as she could.

“But-”

“Sweetie,” she placed her hands on the side of his face, pulling him down for a gentle kiss. “Everything is okay. The only worry would be if the baby does grow next week, but we’re not going to let that even be a worry. Because they’ll be in our arms before it’s a concern.”

Zuko sighed heavily as she pulled away to get dressed. But smiled as she struggled a bit to get her shoes back on, because of her beautifully swollen stomach. He smiled and helped her put them on before escorting her out of the office and home.

Standing beside ___ tightly hold her hand, while she sweated, panted, and even cursed some under her breath. Zuko was anxiously awaiting their child, while fretting over his loves pain, determined by the strength of her grip, almost crushing his hand at times. But if this was to help her while he felt completely useless, he’d endure anything. If it meant he could be of help in this moment when her scream of agony, racked through both of their bodies. As she panted, worn and drained, her eyes closed with a happy smile as they heard the first cry of their little one.

“It’s a boy,” the doctor quickly declared, it was the first word Zuko heard from the man since her sobs started. Zuko had never seen his sunflower glow so brightly while looking so defeated, her arms weakly lifting, wanting to hold the whimpering babe. “Would you like to cut the cord, Fire Lord Zuko?” A nurse was offering him some special scissors while the doctor was gently holding their child, cautiously looking over him to make sure there was nothing wrong on the surface.

Zuko barely remembers taking the special scissors but clipping the cord where the doctor instructed him, was a memory he’ll keep forever. Quickly the baby was placed on the mother, while the doctor worked to get the afterbirth out and nurses were fluttering about. Wiping the babe and tenderly lying a warm cloth over them, the infant curling into the warmth of his mother’s chest. Sweaty and dazed from pain, ___’s eyes and a smile never faltered from the precious bundle was placed in her heavy arms. How fragile, sweet, and utterly irreplaceable.

“He’s beautiful,” her sore voice was tender but raspy.

“Just like his mother.” Zuko kissed her head before leaning against her bed and glazing at the small cooing child as his head started to bob around. “Is he okay?”

A nurse nearby looked over and smiled at the concerned Lord. “Yes, he’s just rooting around, looking to feed. Do you want to try on your own first?” Her question was directed to ___.

“Yes, yes,” her reply was a bit absent-minded but she moved gingerly to direct him to her breast and showing him how to latch. Zuko watched intently as the two cuddled and interacted. The hour passed and the small one was taken for cleaning and measurements.

Finally, it was Zuko’s turn to hold the baby, who was now asleep from the activity of being born to eating the first time, bundled in a blanket. How he got to fawn over the baby, while the nurses took care of his beloved, cleaning her, getting her supplies. Once she was settled the nurses took the baby for more testing and to let the mother rest for a bit. Zuko went to ask what she wanted to name their baby, but she was passed out. She deserved it, so he just tucked her in and sat next to her patiently, rubbing his sore hand occasionally.

“Mako! I promise mommy will be home soon, then you can eat.” Zuko was desperately trying to calm the crying baby. He was a few months old, still nursing, but Zuko had seen how exhausted his wife was from taking care of the child basically on her own. He’d been slammed with royal duties; he’d planned this day for mom to get away and pamper herself. She’d given him enough bottled milk for this day, but Mako was drinking as if he’d never eaten before in his life. It was late in the afternoon, so should she should be back soon. Zuko paced.

Mako was viscously chewing and sucking on his fist, trying to calm himself as his father patted his back. Hoping he just needed to burp and not eat, even though his whines and cries were the ones that sounded like his hungry cry.

The drag of the door almost made Zuko cry in relief. Her small laugh, taking away all his worry. She looked rejuvenated while reaching for the whining bundle, making this long day for Zuko, completely worth it. He loved being a father, but he felt every out of step all day long, since it’d been at least a month since he took care of the child on his own.

Zuko was dazed by her smiling face as she nursed Mako. “You’re always saving me.” Zuko sighed before wrapping an arm around her, “what did I do to deserve you?” Kissing her temple before guiding her to the bed so they could sit together.

“Having your grandfather as the Avatar then having him as your best friend, that’s probably what you did. You helped save the world, so if I can help you, then that’s the least I can do.”

“You give yourself too little credit.”

“Like you’re one to talk,” she giggled softly before kissing him. “We both deserve happiness, let’s not question it further. Let’s just be a family, loving each other and helping others where we can.”

“Anything for you,” Zuko leaned his head against hers, closing his eyes and inhaling, taking in her scent and relaxing against her as their little one suckled.

“It looks like he’ll sleep after this feeding. Has he napped lately?”

“No, he ran out of milk a couple of hours ago then just wanted to play and giggle. Spent a lot of time on his playmat, batting at the toys.”

“Then we can have some time to ourselves. While he naps”

Zuko was a bit surprised, he honestly couldn’t remember the last time they’d been alone together, since Mako was born, not that he minded. But it’d be nice to spend some unaccompanied time together.

___ entered their room, after placing Mako in his crib in his room. She glanced around but didn’t see her love. “Zuko?” She called out softly, wondering if he’d left the room. As she turned to close the door, she spotted him. Leaning against the wall, his arms crossed. “What are you doing there? Not sulking again are you King Pout?” she teased as she shut and locked the door.

He grumbled softly before pulling her to him, resting his forehead against hers. “Just thinking about you, our time in the Earth Kingdom. How I could have lost you forever.”

“You could have, but you came back to me. And now we’re here, that’s all that matters.”

Zuko gave her a soft hum of agreement before turning her around, wedging her between the wall and his body. Her giggle was cut off as his mouth slotted against hers. As his hands and lips started to wander, she let out breathy moans, relaxing back into the wall. Gently taking his hair out then carding her fingers through it. As he bunched up the skirt of her dress, her leg followed up his and hooked on his hip.

“It’s been a while, hasn’t it?” She murmured after a light moan escaped. One hand of his was diligently pulling her underwear to the side. The other pulling the hem of her top aside to suckle across her collar bone.

He could barely hear anything outside her noises, as his fingers started to pump into her core. Chanting his name as he curled them into her soft sponge, her hand reaching down to stroke him through his trousers. His dick almost painfully pushing into her hip bone. He quickly pulled her hand off of him and pinned it up against the wall.

His fingers worked faster, making her keen and arch into him. Her breathing sped up with his actions. Her moans turned into pants and whimpers; her hips started to move with his hand. She was so close, Zuko groaned against her heated flesh as she tightened. Wanting her to reach her peak, he guided her hand to his neck before kneading her breast. He pushed another finger into sloshing folds breaking her pants, making her moan his name. He swallowed any other noises from her as he claimed her mouth.

Forming tight circles around her clit with his thumb, as his fingers, curled and pumped inside her. He knew the moment he started to touch her button, circling it and adding pressure it wouldn’t be long until she’d crash.

“Cum for me, Sunflower. Let me take care of you tonight. Cum baby,” he kissed her up her neck in between his words. A high-pitched whimper trembled her lips as the orgasm started to rip through her. His kisses and digits helping her stay on the high.

Waves of pleasure started to tamper off, she rested her head back against the wall, panting softly as he withdrew his hand from her. “Love you,” she pulled him closer to kiss him gently.

“I love you too,” resting his forehead against hers breathing her in before stepping back and tugging her towards the bed. Pull off her dress and soaked panties before kissing her and working on his own articles of clothing. “I’ll never get used to your wonderful body.”

“You will.”

“No, I won’t, because we’re growing older together every day, so there will always be something new to love.” Guiding her to lie down on the bed, under him. Settling his hips between her thighs as he scattered kisses across her chest. “A new wrinkle, a hair, stretch mark, I love them all and any new ones you get.”

“You’re sappy today,” she giggled as he huffed at her joke, gently nudging her folds with the head of his dick. Rubbing the tip, teasingly, against her throbbing core.

“Tell anyone, I’ll deny it,” he grumbled before slowly pressing into her, savoring her breathy sigh. He loved that sound and getting it every time, he sank into her constricting channel. That was something she’d never get used to, him filling and stretching her.

“I won’t,” a soft whine escaped her as he leisurely moved in and out of her. Zuko pressed into her deeply before stilling to kiss her deeply. Tongue, gentle brushes of teeth as he nipped on her lips. Not breaking the kiss, he pushed her legs to wrap around his waist. She crossed her ankles, pulling him down, closer.

“Zuko move,” she breathed pulling him down again and rutting her hips up. Zuko groaned softly resting his foreheads against hers.

“I wanted to go slow, enjoy this for a while. What do you want?” He started to pepper her face with his slightly chapped lips.

“Go slow another day, give me you,” she pulled him close and shoved her tongue into his mouth. Grinding her hips and purposely clenching down on him causing him to grunt. He gave her a grumbled fine, before snapping his hips into hers. The rapid movement causing her to moan, before she bit her bottom lip.

“We’re alone, don’t hold back on me, let me hear you,” Zuko used his thumb to gently pull her bottom lip free before thrusting harshly into her again. “Just. Like. That.” Every thrust followed with a pant or moan, punctuating his words with every drive of hips.

Salacious slapping of his hips into hers, echoed by moans and grunts from the two. Entangled limbs, sloppy kisses. Zuko was getting sloppier though, but he wanted her to release again before him. He needed to breathe, so he slowed down for a moment, kissing her more passionately. Reaching back, he grabbed one of her legs pulling it up onto his shoulder, one at a time. Circling his hips before grinding down, causing her to whimper out a wanton breath. He lied down on her more, almost pressing her knees into her shoulders.

Delicious burn went through her body as he bent her where he wanted her. A high thin whimper was his reward as he slammed into her, setting a bruising pace. Zuko grabbed her trembling hands as they wandered, looking for something to hold onto, entwining their digits and pinning them to the bed. Strangled noises and broken pieces of his name were all she could muster as he continuously abused her sweet spot. Tightening around him, as her coil started to wind making her feel him more, every vein.

Zuko’s grunts became feral and guttural. Soft praises and sweet words were murmured along with her name, as it became more difficult for him to pull out for every movement. Her cunt slopping wet, clung to him, sucking him back in every time he tried to pull back. His skin was so calmy, exerting himself to keep up his strokes. Trying to keep up his strength to make her snap.

“I can feel-” he growled lowly “-how close you are. I can barely move.”

Her reply was nothing more than broken pieces of his name and begging. Her legs were beginning to shake, she was so ready to let go but she needed more. Something to completely unravel her tension.

Prying his hand from hers; his traveled to her clit as hers gripped his hair. Also clawing at his scalp, he hissed before pinching her swollen bundle of nerves. Even with how he had her pinned, she was able to arch up, pressing into him more as she let go with a scream. Her spasming walls, pulled him deeper, the helmet of his dick snuggly against her cervix. Zuko nearly collapsed on her, as she milked him making him unable to move as his release pooled inside her. Trying to rut into her, help her ride it out.

“Sunflower?” Zuko panted out softly before pulling back to look at her face. She was so dazed on the verge of passing out. He couldn’t help the smile and pride at bloomed in his chest. It took her a moment, but she gave him a soft whimper, answering him. “Go to sleep, my love.” Pressing a kiss to her forehead then slowly pulled out of her.

He left to clean himself and by the time he came back, she was pliant within her deep sleep. Humming softly as he cleaned her, wincing at her soft whimpers as he did so. Her lips were swollen and her button was overstimulated. Zuko quickly discarded the rag, blowing out candles, before crawling into bed with her. Curling her into his chest, even asleep and in the dark of the winter’s moon. His sunflower gave him warmth.

Zuko fell asleep, knowing he’d be up in a few hours for Mako, to let his queen get a good night’s sleep for the first time in months. He started to dream of their future and the possibility of more children.

Author’s Note: I forgot the name Mako was in Korra until after I was proof-reading this and I am too lazy and uncreative to get a different name. I used that name since it’s the name of the voice actor of Iroh and no other reason. 

This came out finally and sooner than I planned because I lost my job due to slow impact of COVID. But hey I’m pregnant and at this point, I’m kinda okay to have a few days to myself and just lazy about as I’ve been so sick. Milk and strawberries are my only craving and saving grace when I’m sick ahaha. Also, I wasn’t expecting it end with smut, but meh what can I say, it wrote in itself after the fluff ahha. The birth from this story is very similar to one of mine, as I’ve got two kids, for now. 

I started a side blog, off this one, to support more artist and writers. So if you love a lot of different fandoms, especially MCU, as I’m migrating back into that fandom right now. Then I recommend following it to see my favorite fics and such :) You can follow it here; @lalahreblog​

          Once back home, you both relax for a moment, music playing in the background softly. Then you were unpacking the bags. Showing Eddie how to use the new technology of the washer and dryer. To wash things from the thrift store. Smart washer and dryer, ones Blair insisted that they were a necessity because she forgets to flip over the loads without the stupid app.

          You left him to do it himself after you gave him a brief showing of knobs and buttons. Starting some easy pasta for dinner. Eddie wandered back into the kitchen and watched you for a moment with a soft smile before eyeing the black bags on the counter, not unpacked. He bit his lip to contain his smile as he slowly dragged on to him. He honestly didn’t know whose was whose, but he was hoping it was your bag. A soft glance in, and he cheered mentally, odds were in his favor.

          He slowly took out the items, a rose-shaped thing, a basic dildo, a sensation gel it seemed, then he saw the one he assumed was your replacement. Box adverting all the specs, Eddie could feel himself heating up just thinking about easily he could replace, your little replacement. Then pulled out a few unexpected items. Lingerie, silky red lace, he swallowed hard trying to not picture it on you or he’d be hard with his next breath. And the last two; were toys he knew were meant for a couple. He’d eyed the exact ones when you were first off with Ket.

          “Eddie!” you cried, humiliation flushing through you. “That’s clearly my bag!” you rushed over and start putting the items back.

          “Sorry, I was too curious. Did Ket talk to you into all that?” Eddie couldn’t help his simper as you gathered the bag behind your back and you nodded shyly. “Hey it’s okay, I’m sorry, but also you did say you’d show me. Now you don’t have to, I just did it myself. But I do have to ask,” he chuckled when you looked at him with a glare that had no heat to it. “That panty vibe, have you ever used one?” you shook your head no. “Well, I’d be willing to, uh, use it with you,” he gave you a lopsided smile with a tilt of his head.

          The smile he had was so fiendish it made your breath quicken. “Eds,” you whined softly. “S-stop teasing me, please.”

          “It’s hard not to when you look so good when I do,” he reached out to cup your face in both of his hands. “And knowing I made you this hot. Your sweet eyes,” he groaned in the back of his throat. “You’ve gotta tell me to walk away, or I’m ‘bout to kiss ya.”

          “I don’t kiss on first dates,” you muttered but gave a shaky exhale when he noticed you glance at his lips.

          “I’m happy to be an exception. Rules are meant to be broken, sweetheart.” He’s dangerously close and you can’t keep your eyes off his tantalizing plush lips. “Besides, I’m gonna be your last.”

          “Last?” you whispered, sighing as his warm breath fanned over you.

          “Last first date,” his lips almost touching yours. “Last everything and a few first,” he slots his lips to yours as soon your eyes flutter close at his proximity. Ripples of affection rolled through your flesh, leaving goosebumps in their wake. You weren’t too sure if was your moan or Eddie’s, or hell maybe even both of you did. Eddie’s hand trailed to the back of your neck, tenderly shifting your head to deepen the kiss. Velvet lips glided against yours as you dropped the bag to grip onto him. Needing the purchase as you felt your knees wobble.

          One hand balling into his shirt to bring him closer and the other pushing into his hair. Eddie dropped a hand to your hip to bring you flush to him. You gasped as your back hit the wall, you hadn’t even noticed him backing you up. You could feel his smile in the kiss causing you to giggle as the kiss got sloppier and became pecks. Quick presses of his lips all over your face until you give a breathy laugh.

          His hands dart to tickle you, one to your side and the other to your hip. You squealed and squirmed against him, trying to escape.

          “Eddie!” you gasped for breath when he pinched you slightly.

          A sinister chuckle is all you got before you were giving him slurs of stop stop stop. He bit his lip before resting his hands on your waist. Staring into your glossy eyes from unshed tears from laughter.

          “You’re so sexy.” He breathed softly before kissing you chastely. Hands lovingly following the shape of your figure.

          “If you say so,” you sighed happily, pushing your burning face into the crook of his neck.

           “Oh, I do, Angel,” Eddie pulled you back from the wall a bit to embrace you tightly.

           “So, my last everything, huh?” you mumbled at his neck, lips brushing against his skin there.

          “If you’ll have me. Whatever doubts, worries, or fixed ideas you have already about how this should go with us. Just sweep them away, please. Because this-” he embraced you harshly, laughing when you wheezed a bit before loosening his hold “-it feels s’right. Can barely hold myself back right now, but I want to, to show you. Show you how much I want to cherish you.”

          “Eds,” you pulled back to look at him. “We just met, and yea you can do whatever you want. But jumping into a new world and into a relationship before you’ve even had time to be alone. Before we’ve gotten to know each other, truly. That doesn’t seem healthy.”

          “I need you. You need me. Can’t we just leave it at that?” he sighed sadly then pouted as you pulled away from him. “Sweetheart?”

          “Blair said that to me,” you lamented. “After one of our big fights on my insecurities.” You backed up more when he took another step towards you.

          “So what? It’s true for me as well.”

          “How much of what you’re saying is you? How do we know it’s not just Blair’s memories, her love from those memories, just seeping into you? So now you only think you want me.”

          Eddie took a large step toward you, grabbing your hand and putting it to his chest. His heart was hammering against your palm. “Even if that was true. You did this to me, just by kissing me, laughing with me, that didn’t come from memories. I have never felt like this, my body has never felt like this with anyone in my life. Not the way I do with you. Don’t get paranoid about Blair’s recollections in my mind. I stole a sweet line from one, but I don’t mean it any less.”

          You looked down at your feet, allowing Eddie to pull you back to him.

          “I loved getting to know you through her eyes, but I don’t need them. I can ask her to take them away. Then I can make fresh ones with you. Please, pretty girl, don’t discount my feelings because I plagiarized something.”

          That got you to giggle and you felt Eddie relax at the sound. You hugged him back. “You really feel that comfortable with me?”

          “Never felt so natural from another being. Only from my hobbies. Fantasy game and playing guitar, but you, I just need to be near you. I feel on top of the world.”

          You nuzzled your fervid face back into the curve of his neck. “I feel like I’m gonna catch fire. So, zip it, don’t know if I can take any more compliments right now.”

          “Pfft, like you can talk. Spouted like 10 rapid-fire compliments at me while on our date. Talk about unfair standards, sweetheart,” he huffed playfully while rubbing your back.

          “Shit!” you pulled back from Eddie in hurry, rushing to the stove and then draining the pasta. Eddie chuckled softly as you tried the pasta and made a face. “Okay, so, um, it’s overcooked. Someone distracted me.” You stuck your tongue out at him.

          “Worth it. What else we got that’s quick?”

          “Microwavable stuff, check the freezer, I’m gonna dump this mush.” You sighed.

          You were nearly in Eddie’s lap while helping him set up and figure out his phone. You glared at him a few times; you could tell he was playing dumb sometimes. Leaning closer and closer to you.

          “I think I got it all.” Eddie leaned back, from you, back into the cushions, relaxing a bit. “Man, this is cool.” He said while staring at the screen, scrolling through band info on the internet.

          “It can get addicting though, so just make sure you’re not on it all the time.” Eddie nodded in response. “Oh, do you wanna text the guys from GameDen to get deets on their campaign; when you can join and all that?”

          “Yea,” Eddie sat forward to have you watch him do it. “Just say who I am and ask how they are first, right?”

          “You can do the small talk or you can just be like; Hey this is Eddie, we met at GameDen. You said I could join your party. Can you let me know when? So, I can have my character ready.”

          “You’re good,” Eddie teased, typing out what you said. “You don’t like the small talk, do you, in text?”

          “Not really. Not in general. Rather just get to the point. I don’t text a lot, mainly because the only person I would bother to text, lives with me. I usually just call, because my boss and parents don’t like texting because they’re older. If I’m on my phone. I’m reading, watching something, scrolling through memes, or a social. I send a lot of memes and TikToks to Blair. It’s how I mainly communicate with her. I just see something and think of her, so I send it to her.”

          “Will you send me some?”

          “If you’d like.” Eddie nodded at you with a smile before looking back to his phone. “They haven’t replied?”

          “No, does it take a while?”

          “Sometimes, if they don’t respond. You have the other numbers, don’t worry.” You patted his thigh before standing up, stretching a bit. “What you wanna do, hun?” you looked down at him.

          “Think I wanna go play my guitar a bit.” He glanced up at you, not missing the slight sadness in your eyes for a moment. But it was gone in a blink, he stared at the fake smile you plastered on.

          “That sounds great. We can call it a night. I gotta get ready for bed anyways. Goodnight Eds, see ya tomorrow,” you started to walk off.

          Eddie quickly got up and grabbed your arm to turn you to him. “Everything okay?”

          “Yeah?” you titled your head confused.

          “So, I just imagined that flit of sadness when I said I wanted to play my guitar? And where is my goodnight kiss?” he huffed it all out in a quick breath.

          You propped up on your tippy toes to kiss his cheek. “G’night.” Your brow furrowed when he still didn’t let go. “Are you okay?”

          “No, tell me what’s wrong? We just started dating and you’re already hiding things from me and I don’t like it.”

          “Dating?” you murmured softly.

          “Did my confession of how you make me feel make you think otherwise?”

          “I just didn’t want to assume, usually putting a label on something, ends badly for me. I get too attached, clingy.”

          “I asked if you’d have me. But fine I’ve got no issue with you clinging to me, Angel. Will you be my girlfriend?” he smiled at your flustered state while you nodded. “Words, sweets.”

          “Y-yes. If that’s what you want.”

          “Oh, it is.” He encircled his arms around you. “Just so you know, I expect morning and nightly kisses. Real ones.” He seamed his mouth to yours savoring your soft whine. Barely pulling away, so his lips would brush against yours as he spoke. “Now, tell me what you were sad about with me wanting to go play guitar?”

          “Didn’t want the date, or night, to end. Just wanted to stay with you. But you deserve alone time and it is late, so…” you trailed off and glanced over your shoulder to your room. “So, I was just going to go to bed. Well maybe read a bit then bed. I’ve got work in the morning anyways.”

          “We’ll have other dates, better ones, this isn’t the end. Do you wanna go get ready for bed then come to my room while I dick around? You can read on my bed until you’re sleepy enough.” Eddie couldn’t help his little amused huff at your bright smile and quick bob of your head.

          Eddie had changed into some loose pants and was shirtlessly lounging on his bed. Back barely touching the headboard. Headphones on to hear his guitar while playing with the adaptions and equipment you bought him. He left the door open for you and smiled when he saw your figure there. But gave you a confused look when you were in far more clothing than he’d seen you in before to sleep.

          He pushed down his headphones to talk to you before you could reach the bed. “What’s with all this?” he gestured to you.

          You looked down at your body confused. You were in a long sleeve shirt and comfy sweats. “What you talkin’ ‘bout?”

          “Are ya really going to wear that to sleep?” he raised a suspicious eyebrow at you that disappeared into his fringe.

          “No?”

          “Then what’s with the getup?”

          You giggled softly. “Eddie, I don’t wear anything to bed. I just pull on whatever I can reach when I wake up.”

          “Shit, sweetheart, you can’t just say things like that.” Eddie gripped at his heart before slumping back on his bed.

          “You asked!” you tittered before sitting at the foot of his bed.

          “How am I supposed to behave knowing my voluptuously hot girlfriend sleeps naked just down the hallway from me?!” Eddie whined.

          “Pffft,” you giggled. “Not like we both don’t have toys and good imaginations to handle it ourselves.”

          “Wait, no, you said you didn’t have a good imagination, that’s why you don’t play D&D.”

          “I didn’t expect you to remember that,” you stammered.

          “Well, I did, now level with me. What do you mean?”

          “Ya know, to get off, I’ve gotta think of something. Reading helps, I can just replay those spicy scenes to ya know, get there, finish. I don’t really have a good imagination; I just reuse things or think up something I want.”

          “Woah, what, what?! You read porn?!” You squeaked at his shocked tone. “Little Precious Angel, my ass! What do you read? Show me.” Eddie gently yet quickly put down his guitar and headphones. Then crawled down to you. Chortling as you stuttered and shyly tried to hide your phone.

          “Eddie!” you squealed as you tried to keep hold of your phone. You let go and he flopped back with the prize and gave a victorious shout. “Not like you can unlock it and find it anyways,” you grumbled.

          “No, I saw your code when you showed me Rainbow in the Dark. But you’ve gotta tell me where you read.”

          “Eds, no! You don’t need to know. Just find your own porn.” You tried to reach for it.

          “Unless you’re offering to make me a few videos or make a film with me, I don’t care. I wanna know what you’re reading, you little scamp. I can’t believe I thought you were this sweet innocent thing. Angel,” Eddie mocked with a cackle while unlocking your phone.

          “Y-you,” you were beyond flustered by this conversation.

          “Where? Which app is it?” Eddie started thumbing through the apps on your phone. “I’ll open every single one until I find it.”

          “You won’t find it like that then,” you muttered, you took his confused face as an opportunity to grab your phone. “Haa!” you triumphed then shrieked as Eddie gripped you and wrestled you to the mattress. Pinning you down, knocking the breath out of your chest. All this talk and now him basically manhandling you with unforeseen strength, you whimpered.

          Heavy breathing was the only sound in his room as you both stared into each other’s eyes. Eddie’s body was arched over yours, his hands still affixed to your wrists. “Jesus Christ,” he groaned before leaning in to graze his lips against yours. “Shit, how did I get so lucky?” he whispered, mainly to himself before gingerly lying his body onto yours. “This okay?” he asked sheepishly.

          “Uh-huh,” you mumbled before lifting your head a bit to capture his lips again in a sudden burst of confidence. You hummed into his mouth when he teasingly brushed his tongue against the seam of your mouth. You let your head fall back to the bed and Eddie followed, claiming your mouth again desperately.

          Eddie didn’t mean to, but he rutted his growing hard-on into your hip. Stopping himself when you whined at it. “Shit, sorry,” he panted.

          “S’okay, Eds, but maybe we should calm down?” you tugged at his grip on your wrist.

          He tightened his hold. “Tell me what you read.”

          “Just smut, like sex,” you muttered before looking away.

          “What it’s all just vanilla sex?” he teased.

          “No, no, it’s um, fuck, Eds, you don’t know about this stuff and I don’t wanna talk ‘bout it. Because it’s so mortifying to admit it for me.”

          “Babe,” he cooed tenderly. “I’d never judge you; it’d probably just turn me on.”

          You sputtered for a moment before coming to the realization Eddie isn’t going to let you go until you told him. “Okay fine,” you heaved. “So, you know how people like things, create things from liking that thing?” he nodded. “It’s usually called a fandom like you’re a fan of that thing, you find the community for it and you just create together.”

          “Like that artwork of me on one of the t-shirt booths in the mall?”

          “Yes, exactly. Stranger Things has its own fandom. That shirt would be fanart, and with drawing, there is also writing. Fanfiction, stories of the characters, but there are reader-insert stories. When it’s a story with a character or multiple and then you are able to just, kinda, put yourself into the story.”

          You could see the gears turning in his head, piecing it all together. “So, you read smut of characters you like, written by other fans?” You give him a stiff nod and swallowed. “What characters?” your breath got caught in your throat for a moment at the sudden desire in his eyes.

          “Y-you,” you were barely audible. His eyes widened at your admission.

          “Been reading about having sex with me? Then you remember those works. And use the memory to then masturbate to me as well?” you pressed your lips together and Eddie couldn’t help the swell in his chest. “Is that common, fanfiction?” he was trying to downplay the hammering of his heart. Block the idea of you writhing on your bed at the thought of him.

          “Y-ya,” you cleared your throat. “I think so at least, Blair, too.”

          “Cool, cool, coooolll,” Eddie droned until you started to giggle. He pecked a kiss on your nose and let you up. “Is that what you were going to read in here?”

          “Maybe fluffy stuff, but likely not, I have a book I’m trying to finish, I just keep forgetting about it.” You gave him a dry chuckle.

          “What book?” Eddie reclaimed his spot at the headboard and resituated this guitar onto his lap.

          You started going on about what you’ve read so far. Eddie gave you his attention, asking some questions here and there. And when you trailed off, you two just smiled at each other.

          Eddie put his headphones back on and you started reading your book. Occasionally Eddie would nudge your hand with his foot. Laughing childishly when you’d drop it and give him an unamused glare, blowing kisses at you.

          Although the next time he went to do it, you had fallen asleep, he watched you for a moment before glancing at his watch. The new one that linked to his phone, he’d forgotten what you called it, but he liked it. You’d picked it out and a badass chain to connect to the face plate.

          “It’s almost 9,” he whispered to himself. Eddie chewed his lip for a moment. Carefully getting up, hanging up his sweetheart, and placing the headphones on the desk. Eddie so wanted to just try and get you up the bed and cuddle with you. But maybe that was too soon, he’d already pushed so much today. He just worried if he didn’t just do what he wants, you’d sense it, you’d try to pull away.

          Goddammit, is this what love is? Just being so damn nervous all the fucking time? Scared to screw it up, worrying about all the trivial things? No, no, Eddie was just jittery. Jazzed up, he’s so happy. Fuck he’s so lucky. Love-struck and feeling like a damn pre-teen around this gorgeous thing. One that loves him back. Lying in his bed. Has made herself cum to the simple thought of him. No one could compare to you. You’re sweetness, you’re unselfish nature. He wants all the mundane cliché bullshit he hated before. Morning kisses, checking in on each other, going on dates, getting married, maybe a nugget or two, holidays, vacations, Jesus Christ. He just wanted everything with you.

          Eddie took a deep breath to relax his mind. Shaking you gently. “Angel,” he called out softly. When your eyes fluttered ever so slightly for him, he smiled at you brightly. “You fell asleep, we should go to bed. You’ve got work in the morning, right?”

          You bobbed your head slowly before sitting up. “Yeah, sorry, I’ll let you be and go get some shut-eye. Or I could accidentally bake myself,” you joked dryly while standing up.

          “You never told me, well I also never asked. What is it you do for work?” Eddie firmly held your hand, leading you back to your room.

          “Head Baker, Pastry Chef, Kitchen Manager, whahaveya, whatever it is. I handle just about everything in the kitchen and I work closely with the owner. A sweet old woman named Evie, no kids of her own. I might get to own it someday. I mean I basically do everything but the ordering of supplies and accounting. Or at least that’s how it feels.” Eddie was shocked. Mainly at the level you were at in your life. But also, how you were so coherent with your words, yet were nearly stumbling just down the hallway.

          “You’re amazing,” he let out a soft chuckle. “Do you manage all the people too? Like employees?”

          “No, Evie handles all that, I can’t be an axe man. Makes me wanna cry, I mean unless they like piss me off. I have the power; I just have never used it. Evie also handles all the café, coffee, beverage stuff. I make all the food and keep the kitchen in pristine order.”

          “That’s still a lot. Do you like it?”

          “I love it. I do worry about owning it. Don’t know if I could make it stay successful. So, I’ve just been slowly helping out with more responsibilities. Hiring more staff, to give over some of my current responsibilities. It’s a bit stressful, but I mean if I could own my café, it’d so be worth it. Not having a boss anymore. Granted Evie is amazing, but I mean she only comes in like once a week if that, makes bank, and doesn’t answer to anyone else. I mean like besides like bills and helping me and staff when needed. I would love that, the freedom.”

          “You’re so cute when you’re rambling yet almost dead asleep on your feet.” Eddie barked out a laugh when you stuck your tongue out at him. “Go to bed Angel, I’ll bother you tomorrow.”

          “You could never be a bother, my love,” you extended your head for a kiss. He eagerly scooped down to claim his goodnight kiss.

          “I’m gonna hold ya to that,” he muttered against your lips

          “Good,” you pulled him down to deepen the kiss for a moment before pulling away. “Night handsome.”

Author’s Note;

I’m debating if this is the end or not. I’m starting to think it’d be better left as a short fluff series. But Idk, anyone would like this continue, just let me know. I’ll ponder it and see if I can get a good next part or somethin... Idk just not really feelin this one rn. I feel like it’s not that good, but I hope you enjoyed it anyways!