#married!reader

You came from a wealthy family. Generational wealth that had taken a hit during the War, but quickly bounced back when your family invested in clothing manufacturing. Your family helped sponsor the reconstruction of factories destroyed in Eight, and soon, the business boomed. Your wealth grew, surpassing anything you’d ever imagined.

But despite having access to the finest fashion first, you remained the same sweet girl. Always willing to give a skirt, blouse, or dress with a flaw to Tigress, saying, “It would be a shame to waste it. I just don’t have the talents to fix it.” Tigress always smiled in return.

Watching you during the Hunger Games years ago had been painful. When the games changed, and Academy students had to mentor District tributes, you were assigned Wovey, a poor thirteen-year-old from District Eight. You did everything in your power to keep your promise to get her home. But near the end, after Wovey drank some water and died within minutes, your frustration boiled over. You demanded answers, questioned the contents of the water, and felt humiliated. You had failed, and it ate at you, gnawing at your pride.

After the Games, life seemed to return to normal—for you, at least. News broke about Coriolanus Snow’s involvement in cheating and his banishment to District 12 as a peacekeeper, and the gossip spread like wildfire.

You’d liked him—been acquaintances. You exchanged basic pleasantries, nothing more. He was smart. Incredibly so. Even in silence, his eyes were constantly assessing, watching everything.

You felt sorry for him. Sorry that he was stuck in an awful district with awful people. Sorry that he’d been manipulated by Lucy Gray, that District girl who you believed was only using him. How awful those District people were.

Then, near the end of summer, after Sejanus Plinth’s death, Coryo returned to the Capital. And he was different—hardened, colder, more toned. But the way he looked at you was also different.

It began with simple compliments during classes at University. Compliments that made you blush. Then came walks to class, studying together, dinners. And before you knew it, you were standing beside him as the First Lady of Panem, ever so cold, calculating, and calculating. You saw the side of him he only allowed you to see—the soft, loving Coryo you had come to know and love.

And now here you were. Just two years into his presidency. The grand hall of your home was packed, its glittering elite seated in perfect rows as cameras broadcasted the event to the districts. Tonight, the event was designed to be a spectacle—a night of carefully crafted rhetoric.

You stood at the podium, poised, regal, your silk gown flowing over the unmistakable curve of your belly. Coriolanus had urged you to rest, to stay seated during the event, but you insisted. This speech was important.

The initiative you were launching, The Future of Panem Fund, symbolized progress—a new focus on education and healthcare for the next generation. It reinforced Coriolanus’ image as a leader who not only brought order but invested in the future. As his wife, you played a key role in solidifying that vision.

Standing before the audience, you smiled, your voice unwavering. “Good evening. I would like to thank you all for taking the time to come tonight. I assure you, it will be worth it,” you began, the polished ease of a practiced speaker settling over you. A sweet smile, a perfect face, the ideal First Lady for their perfect President.

“For too long, we have focused on the present—on survival, rebuilding, improving. But tonight, we look beyond the now. We look to what comes next. What comes tomorrow.”

A wave of nods rippled through the audience, all of them hanging on your words. You had crafted this speech carefully, balancing inspiration and strength.”

“The Future of Panem Fund is not just an initiative; it is a promise.” Your hand rested lightly on your belly. “A promise that every child in the Capital will have access to education, healthcare, and the resources to grow strong and capable.”

Applause rippled through the hall, and beside you, Coriolanus stood composed, his sharp gaze never leaving you.

You took a steadying breath before continuing. “Because the future of Panem is not written by chance. It is shaped by those with the will to guide it. Together, we will build a nation that does not just survive—but thrives.”

The applause swelled, echoing through the hall. You allowed a brief smile, savoring the moment—

And then, the contraction hit.

Your breath hitched, pain radiating through your abdomen. You gripped the podium, forcing yourself to maintain a serene expression. You weren’t going to falter.

Coriolanus noticed instantly.

Though he didn’t move, you could feel his attention shift, his calculating mind assessing every detail.

Still, you pressed on. “This fund will ensure that every—” Another contraction. This time, your breath left you in a slow, controlled exhale. You gave a short laugh, shaking your head.

Oh.

Oh, this was happening.

You turned to Coriolanus and, in a voice that carried through the microphone, murmured with quiet amusement, “I do believe I’m in labor, my dearest.”

Silence.

Then the hall erupted.

Laughter, cheers, applause—thousands of people on their feet, reveling in the spectacle. This was their perfect moment—their President, his wife, and the arrival of their child, the future of Panem.

But Coriolanus didn’t see it that way.

For the first time, his mask cracked. His usually unreadable expression betrayed sheer disbelief.

You, however, were laughing softly, gripping the podium as another contraction struck. “Well,” you exhaled, glancing back at the crowd, “it seems the future of Panem is arriving a little earlier than expected.”

More laughter, more cheers, more applause. Half the room was celebrating, while reporters scrambled to capture every moment as though it was a privilege to witness.

Coriolanus finally snapped into action.

“Go,” he barked sharply to the peacekeepers, “Bring the doctor. Now.”

The peacekeepers moved immediately, but Coriolanus was already at your side, one hand pressed to your back, the other reaching to steady you. His grip was firm, unwavering, but you felt the tension radiating off him. More peacekeepers formed around you, escorting you out of the hall and to the private part of your home.

“You should have been resting,” he muttered lowly, his voice tight as he guided you away from the podium.

You smirked despite the pain. “And miss my big speech? Not a chance.”

His jaw clenched, but a faint twitch of his lips betrayed something softer. “You’re insufferable.”

“And yet,” you teased breathlessly, leaning into his support as another contraction hit, a small groan escaping, “you married me.”

»--•--«

“So how’s preschool going for Brodie?” You take a sip of your drink as you glance at Julia, “I know his first day was what, a few days ago?”

She lets out a laugh, glancing over at her husband with yours, “It’s.. going good actually. I thought it was going to be a tough, but he actually loves it.”

“How are you?” You stare at her and she looks at you with a smile, “I hate it. I hate how fast they grow up.”

You nod, “Yeah, I know what you mean.”

“So enough about that, when are you and Leo going to start trying for another?”

You let out a laugh, “Funny, you’re funny.” She leans in, “What? I’m serious.” You shrug, “He’s got his work, I have mine, Lincoln is enough for now.”

“You don’t even think about wanting another?” She tilts her head, “Two isn’t all that bad.”

You raise your brows, “Link is only two, so maybe within the next year I’ll change my mind?” You shrug again, “I don’t know.”

You look up as Sam and Leo walk up.

“Here, Julia. Take her. I have to go get Brodie.” Sam hands the small child to his wife, “He’s up there taking toys from other kids.”

“Can’t you get him to come down?” She asks and Sam sigh, “I’ve been trying. So I’m just going to go up.”

You smile at the baby girl looking at you and you look back over as Sam climbs within the netted step, “Brodie. You can’t just take stuff from other kids.”

Brodie whines and throws the toy, and Sam grows more stern, “Hey. We don’t, throw toys. That could really hurt someone. Come on. We’re going to sit with mom.”

“No!”

“Brodie.” Sam tilts his head, “Let’s go.”

“No! No!”

“Yes, now come on.” Sam grabs the child and wraps him in his arm as he climbs back down.

You blink, looking over to see Lincoln playing with your hair, “Hi, baby.” You reach over, taking him from Leo, “Did you bring his snacks?”

“Yes, I put them in the diaper bag, hold on.” Leo stands up and walks around you to unzip the bag, “Here, babe.” You take the small bag, “Thank you.” You smile at him and open it up, allowing Lincoln to grab a snack.

“Oh he loves those! Look at him chow down!” Julia laughs, “Are those the veggie puffs?”

You nod, “They’re his favorite. Does Quinn want one?” You hold out the bag and the girl starts to smile. Julia laughs, “I think she does.” She grabs a few out for her daughter and lays them on the table.

“She loves them, too!” You shake your head and look back over as Sam carries Brodie back over to the table, “You need to calm down, you can’t throw toys or take them away.” Sam says as he sits the fussing boy down next to his mom.

“No, Brodie. When you can play nice and share, we’ll let you go back and play, but for right now, you’re going to sit and calm down.”

Brodie sits down, pouting as Sam sits on the other side of him. He looks up at you, “Kids. They said it would be fun, right?”

“I believe they did, but I don’t think they meant all the time.” You laugh, looking over at Leo who is staring at his phone, “What is it?”

“They want me to go into work.”

“You’re supposed to have a week off.” You sigh, “Where do they need you to go?”

“Colorado.” He lays his phone down, “There’s a rig out there that needs work and apparently no one else can do it.”

“What do you have to do?” Julia asks, “Is it like an oil rig or something?”

He nods his head, “Yeah. Damn it.” He leans back, “I’ll have to leave tomorrow, I’ll be gone for a few days.” He looks at you, “Are you okay?”

You nod, “Yeah, I’ll be fine.” You point to Julia, “Well just hang out with the kids.”

“Oh shit.” Julia sighs, “I have to fly to Toronto tomorrow night to finalize this magazine that’s launching.”

“Oh right, the women’s one.” You tilt your head, “Well that’s okay. I’m sure Link and I can find something to do.” You look back at Leo, “It’s only for a few days. We’ve done longer.”

Leo kisses your head, “Yeah, you’re right.”

»--•--«

It was Saturday, two days since Leo left and two days since you seen Sam.

You knew you shouldn’t be thinking of him, you knew it was wrong. You were both married, but there was just something about Sam that just kept bringing your attention back to him.

You loved Leo, but things aren’t.. like they were? You knew having a baby would change things, you knew you would change, but you didn’t expect it to go downhill like you feel it’s going.

Your mind was racing as you were trying to get Lincoln down for his nap. Humming lowly as your hand gently patted his back.

You heard the vibration of your phone on the arm of the couch buzzing with an incoming call.

You moved over, sat down and picked it up.

“Hey, Sam.”

“Hey, I’m so sorry that this is last minute, but would by any chance be able to watch my kids for a little bit? I got called into work, something about an emergency meeting and my mom can’t get here in time.”

“Of course. I just need to get link around and then I’ll be on my way. I’ll try and be quick.”

“Okay, thank you thank you thank you.” Sam sighs, “I appreciate you. I’ll bring dinner on my way home, if you want.”

“Sounds good. See you soon.” You hang up and stand up, “Alright, honey. We’ll get you asleep in the car.”

A little bit later, you were pulling up to Sam’s. You grab your child and his diaper bag, and walk up to the door.

You’ve known Sam and Julia for years, so you didn’t feel the need to knock. You just walk in, calling out to Sam.

Brodie runs over to you, “y/n!”

“Hi, buddy!” You reach down, rubbing his head, “Ready to have a play date with Link?” He cheers as you set Lincoln down, and you look up to see Sam running down the steps, “Quinn is already down for her nap, Brodie had lunch.”

Your eyes move up his half unbuttoned shirt and you look up at him, “Perfect. Is there anything you want me to-“

“No.” He cuts you off, “You just, make yourself at home. Chill out. Whatever.” He laughs slightly, “I fucking hate this job.”

“Did they tell you what it was about?”

He shakes his head, his fingers moving swiftly to button up his shirt the rest of the way, “Nope. They just said we need to get there.”

He walks over, grabbing his jacket from the back of the chair and slipping his arms into the sleeves.

You couldn’t help but think, Sam looks good in a suit.

“Okay. Well don’t worry about rushing back here. I will make sure they’re both good.” You give him a smile and he nods, letting out a sigh, “Thank you so much for coming over. I’ll text you when I’m on my way home.”

You nod, watching as he bends down to give Brodie a hug, “I’ll see you later buddy, you be good for y/n.”

“I will!” Brodie giggles as Sam tickles his sides, “Dad! Stop it!” He laughs and laughs until Sam’s lets him go, “Alright. See you later.”

Sam walks by you, his hand lying on your side, “Thank you, again.”

You nod, “It’s no problem, really.”

He smiles, nodding before grabbing his keys and leaving. You turn back, watching Brodie play with Lincoln and you smile as you walk over.

You grab the baby monitor off of the counter and move to sit on the floor with the boys, playing along with them until Quinn wakes up.

»--•--«

It was about five o’clock. You had just gotten off the phone with Leo when Julia called.

“Are the kids being good for you?” Julia asks from the other end of the phone, “Brodie is playing nice?”

“Oh yeah, he’s playing really well with both link and Quinn.” You smile at the kids looking up at you and they giggle as they return back to playing, “Brodie is helping them build a big tower out of blocks. They both lose it laughing when he knocks it over.”

“That’s good.” She pauses, “I’m sorry Sam threw this on you.”

You furrow your brows, standing up to move away from the kids, “He didn’t throw it at me, Jules. He asked if I could and I could, so I did. I love your kids, so it’s no problem at all.”

“I appreciate you, thank you for- oh, I gotta go.” She hangs up without another word and you furrow your brows, “That was weird.”

“What was weird?” Brodie asks and you shake your head, “oh, nothing.” You smile at him, “I’m going to get started on making you guys dinner, do you know what you want?”

He gasps, “pa-sketti!”

“Spaghetti?” You ask with a laugh and he nods, “Yes, pa-sketti!”

You nod, “alright, pa-sketti it is.” You make your way into the kitchen and start making it. Every now and then you’ll check in on the kids, making sure they’re good before returning to the kitchen.

As the kids finish up dinner, you finally get a text from Sam, I’m so sorry that took a lot longer than I thought it would. I’m just now heading to my car, did you eat dinner yet?

You lean against the counter, pausing your clean up, The kids did, I made them Pa-sketti, per Brodie’s request. You set your phone down, making your way over to the table to get the kids cleaned up.

Once that was done, you checked your phone, smirking when you see Sam’s text, That’s not a shocker, he could eat that everyday if he could, but did you? I’m going to stop at The Hattan’s, text me what you want.

You sigh, thinking for a moment before texting him back your order. You bite your lip as you set your phone down, quickly snapping out of your thoughts.

No, no, you shake your head, it’s not like that.

You finish cleaning up before making your way upstairs with the kids. You know their bedtime routine, so you work on that.

As you’re getting them dressed for bed, you hear the door open and Brodie jumps up, “Dad! Dad!” He runs out of the room and you grab Lincoln and Quinn before heading back downstairs.

“Were you good?” Sam asks as he picks him up, “Did you get a bath?”

He nods and Sam looks at you, “You didn’t have to go all out.”

“I wanted to make it easier on you when you got home, especially after a meeting like that, it’s what friends do.” You give him a smile, more or less trying to convince yourself that’s all you and Sam will ever be.

He stares at you, almost like he did like you saying that, “Right, yeah. I’d do it for you.” He gives you a smile and looks at Brodie, “Alright dude, let’s go up and get you into bed.”

He sets the boy down and walks over to take Quinn from your arm, “Was she fussy at all?” He looks from her to you and you shake your head, “she was very giggly tonight.”

“Good, I forgot to tell you she’s cutting teeth, I was hoping she was fine.”

You nod, “She was perfect.”

Sam laughs slightly as he nods into the livingroom, “I guess he couldn’t hang.” You look over to see Lincoln sleep on the floor, “Oh my gosh.”

“You can put him up in Quinn’s room, we have the pack and play up.” He nods, “You need to eat.”

You sigh, “Right, yes.” You laugh slightly and Sam tilts his head, “I don’t mean to intrude, but is everything okay with you?”

“What do you mean?” You look at him and he shrugs, “I can explain once I get these two down for bed. Bring him up if you want.” He walk away, answering Brodie as he walks up the steps, “I’m coming, buddy. Hold on.”

You walk over, scooping up your son from the floor and slowly walking up the steps. You make your way into Quinn’s room and walk over to the pack and play.

Just as you lay him down, Sam comes in to lay down Quinn.

You glance over at him, your eyes following him in the light from the hall as he sways with her back and forth, his hand gently patting her back and you pull your lip between your teeth.

Sam leans over the crib railing to lay her down before standing back up. He points to the door and quietly walks out with you.

You make your way back downstairs and sit down at the table, Sam sitting across from you. He gets everything out and gets back up, “Do you want some wine?”

“Please.” You nod, “So, what did you mean?”

“I didn’t mean it, in a bad way, or anything.” He glances at you as he sets your glass down in front of you, “I just.. notice some things that are different.”

“I had a baby, Sam.” You argue, but he shakes his head, “Two years ago, and I don’t mean, with that.. I mean..”

“With Leo?”

He nods, “You seem, I don’t know how to explain it, more.. dim? I guess.”

“Dim?” You laugh slightly as you take a sip of your drink, “I mean, I’m a stay at home mom. That can take a lot out of you.”

“I’m sure it does, sweetheart, I just mean, like you don’t seem happy.” Sam tilts his head, “By any means, stop me if you don’t want-“

“I don’t think Leo finds me attractive anymore.” You blurt out, eyes burning at the fact that you’ve been dying to talk to someone about this for a while now, “Before I had Leo, when he was home from work, we’d go out, dinner dates, bar hopping, just hanging out like two teenagers, and then I got pregnant and it’s like he couldn’t accept the fact that I was going to change.”

Sam’s brows furrow, “It’s not like you could help that, though.”

“No, I know.” You sigh, “He was alright until I started showing and then it was like he didn’t want anything to do with me. I’ve brought it up and he just said that it was nerves about becoming a dad and that everything was going to change, but I just-“ you swallow, “Sorry that was a lot in a short amount of time.”

Sam shakes his head, “I asked, y/n. You’re fine.” He gives you a reassuring smile, “So is it still like that now?”

You nod, “He’s always working when he can, it’s like he doesn’t want to be home with me or Lincoln. And I know, I know he loves him, I just don’t know if he loves me.”

Sam’s face falls and he shakes his head, “I don’t think that’s the case. You’re the mother of his child.”

You shrug, shaking your head before downing the rest of your glass. Sam chuckles and gets up to grab the bottle, “Here.” He pours more into your glass and you nod, “Thanks.”

“Have you talked to Julia about any of this?” He sits down, “Actually, have you talked to her at all today?”

You nod, “Yes, I’ve talked to her today, no, not about any of this.”

“Hmm.” He nods, “Okay. She texted me once today and that was it.”

“She called me right after I got off the phone with Leo, and she like, it was weird, she was talking and then was like, I gotta go, and hung up right away.”

He shakes his head and takes a big swig of his wine, “Yeah, she’s been acting weird, too.”

“Sounds like we’re all just going through it, huh.” You laugh slightly and he nods, “Sure does seem that way.”

“A part of me feels like he has someone who hasn’t had a baby on the side, like someone who doesn’t disgust him when they find the confidence to change in front of him.”

“For what it’s worth, I think you’re beautiful. You’re a mom, a good mom at that, and I think that makes you even more attractive.” Sam smiles slightly and you can feel your cheeks burning, “You really think that?”

He nods, “I do.”

You chew on your cheek, looking down before continuing to work on your dinner, “So, enough about my issues, what’s going on with you?”

“You mean work, or Julia?” He looks at you and you shrug, “Whatever you want to talk about.”

He takes a deep breath, “Well, this meeting was about someone who quit and took stuff that they shouldn’t with them, and with me being a higher up boss, I had to be there and go over every thing we have in office. I hated it.”

“Oh gosh, yeah, that sounds not only boring, but brutal.”

He nods, “Yeah, and then Julia.” He shrugs, “To outsiders, we seem normal. But when it’s just us, I don’t even know what we are.”

You were shocked to see that Sam felt the same exact way you felt, or almost the same.

“I know what you mean.” You nod, “Right before you called me, I was thinking about everything and thats literally what I-“

Sam seemed just as shocked, “Really?”

You nod, “Yeah.” You laugh, “it’s, crazy. I know.”

He shakes his head, “No, no. Not at all.”

You let out a sigh, “It’s really nice to know that you aren’t alone with stuff.” He nods, “Right, and I mean, I consider us really good friends, so to me, that’s even better that it’s us, I mean.” He laughs, “Not that it’s what we’re going through but-“

“I know what you mean.” You laugh quietly, “People we’re comfortable with, who we don’t really have any shame with I mean, I knew you when you were in band, in highschool.”

“Hey, hey. Let’s not bring up my geek phase, okay.” He laughs and you shrug, “I always thought you were kind of cute.”

He raises his brows, “Whoa, hey. No need to lie to try and make me feel better.”

“I’m not lying!” You laugh, “I swear! I always thought you were too good for me.”

“Okay. Now, you’re lying.” He laughs as he brings his glass up, his eyes staying on you as you gasp, “I’m not lying! You can ask my friend, Everly. She had to listen to me talk about you. She kept pushing me to tell you, but you were caught up on Julia that I just settled for being friends.”

“Being high school sweethearts isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.” He shrugs, laughing slightly, “I probably, no i definitely would have dropped her for you.”

“Now you’re lying.” You shake your head and he sighs, “I’m not. I liked you, too. Hell..” he laughs, “Maybe I still do.”

Your heart skips a beat and you tilt your head, “You know..” you swallow, “Since we’re claiming, to be honest here.” You smirk, “I may or may not still have my crush on you.”

“Hmm.” He nods, “What should we do about that?”

Your head snaps to the steps as you hear Lincoln fussing on the monitor. You stand up, “I’ll go settle him down before he wakes up Quinn.”

Sam nods and watches as you walk towards the steps.

You make your way up, quietly making your way into the room, and you can’t help but smile as you’re patting the back of your son, “Shh, it’s okay.” You whisper quietly, “It’s okay.”

After a minute or two passes, you sneak away, stepping out of the room and when you turn, Sam is standing there.

You lock eyes for a few seconds before he quickly walks up to you, his lips smashing onto yours.

You’re taken a back at first, knowing what you’re doing is wrong, but damn does it ever feel so right. You bring your hands up to his shirt, gripping tightly as you deepens the kiss.

He bends down, picking you up to carry you into his room.

He reaches behind him, closing the door while your hands work at popping open the buttons on his shirt. He walks you over to the bed, laying you down.

His lips trail down your skin, as his hands slip into the band of your sweats and push them down. He stands up, watching as you discard your clothing as fast as you can.

His breath hitches as you take off your bra and your arms automatically move to cover your chest as your legs bend up to block your body.

“No, no.” Sam shakes his head, dropping his shirt, “Baby, you don’t need to do that.” He tilts your chin up, “You don’t need to hide from me, sweetheart.”

You swallow, nodding as you slowly move your arms away from your body.

Sam smiles slightly, leaning in to press a kiss to your lips, “You’re incredibly beautiful.”

You smile, pulling him back in. Your hands slide down his chest, causing his breath to hitch as your nails graze over his abdomen. You work at undoing his belt, then his pants and he leans up, pushing them down.

You move up, slipping your legs under the covers before he joins you. His body hovering over yours as his lips reconnect with yours.

Everything was happening so fast, yet so slow at the same time.

“Are you okay?” Sam asks quietly as he brushes hair from your face. You nod, “Yes, I want this.” You lay your hands on his neck, “I want you.”

“I want you, too, baby.” He smiles slightly and leans in, lips pressing to your cheek as his hand slides down to part your thighs more.

You bite your lip, looking down as his fingers gently move to circle your clit.

You let out a quiet gasp, your back arching upward at his touch. Small whimpers leave your lips as his pressure grows harder.

“Does that feel good?” Sam asks, his lips brushing over your cheek, “Can I do more?”

You nod, “Y-yes, please.” You bite your lip, eyes fluttering closed, face scrunching up with pleasure as he slips two fingers into you.

“You’re so wet.” Sam groans, “Fuck, you’re going to feel so good.”

You moan out quietly as he pulls them out and pushes them back in, “Sh-shit.” Your hand slides down to his bicep, nails digging in as his thrusts grow a little faster, “Yes, yes.”

Sam presses his lips to yours, swallowing your moans with ease. He misses back your jaw and down your neck, “I can’t wait to be inside of you.”

You reach down, wrapping your hand around his cock as you moan, “Sam, please.” He nods, pulling his fingers out and shifting his body over top of yours more. Your hands move up to rest on his shoulders as your legs wrap around his waist.

Your breathing grows faster as he drags the head of his cock against your slit a few times before slipping in slowly.

He groans, face falling into your neck, “Oh my god, you feel so good, sweetheart.”

Your arms tighten around his neck, both of you gasping as he thrusts into you fully. Your hand slides up to tangle your fingers into his hair, tugging slightly as he slowly pulls out and slides back in.

“Don’t ever let anyone make you feel like you’re not beautiful.” He whispers, “You’re such a work of art, baby.”

You slide your hand slides down to his upper back, nails digging in to his skin as he thrusts into you, slow and deep.

Your lips part, quiet moans slipping through as your legs move with his hips, “Sam.” You breathe out, “Feels so-so good.” Your nails drag down his back, “Fuck.”

Sam moves to hold his weight up on his arm by your head, his other hand moving to cup your cheek before kissing you. Your lips move in a slow, passionate pace and he groans against your lips.

“It’s crazy how Leo doesn’t see what’s right in front of him, you’re so fucking beautiful in every way.” His jaw falls slack as your walls pulsate around him, “If you were mine.. I don’t think I’d be able to let you go.”

His eyes scan over your face, “to me, you’re perfect. You shouldn’t have to change for anyone.” He gently peppers kisses all over your face as he keeps his thrusts slow, “I’m lucky to just even get this moment with you.”

You slide your hands to his cheeks, lifting your head to meet his lips with yours. Your legs tighten around his waist as your tongue pushes against his.

He groans, head tilting as you kiss down his neck,

“I can’t get over how good you feel, baby.” His voice low, “fuck, I could do this all day.”

You smile as you look up at him, “this feels so normal.”

“Like it was meant to happen.” You whisper and he nods, “exactly.” He closes the space, lips on yours as his thrusts pick up just a tiny bit.

You moan, hands sliding up his sides and you whimper, “M’so close.” Sam nods, “I got you, sweetheart.” His lips press to yours, “Go ahead and cum for me.” He brushes hair from your face, “I want to make you feel as good as I can.”

Your back lifts from the bed, heels digging into his lower back as you slowly cling to him, “F-fuck.” You bury your face into his neck, moaning continuously as you come undone beneath him.

He tilts your head back, crashing his lips to yours as his thrusts grow more quicker. You exchange moans, your nails digging into his back as you pant.

You gasp at the sudden loss of his cock, biting your lip as you feel him spill his cum onto your waist. You watch him close his eyes, chest rising and falling quickly as he comes down from his own high.

“Fuck.” He breathes out, his eyes snapping open to look at you, “That was..” he smirks, shaking his head, “Amazing.”

You smile, watching as he gets up. He grabs a towel, walking over to wipe off your skin and you roll over as he tosses it down.

“What are you thinking?” He asks as he climbs into bed behind you, fixing the blankets to lay around your waist and chest, “Tell me.”

“I’m just.. thinking about..” you take a deep breath, your eyes bouncing back and forth between your ring and his, “what if.. you and I were meant to part ways, like, think about it.” You roll over to face him, “You and I lost contact after high school right? Then out of everyone I could have ended up with, it brought you and I back together.”

He smiles as his eyes scan over your face, “The first time I saw you again, I was at a complete loss for words.”

“I was shocked to see you and Julia still together honestly.” You laugh slightly, “Sorry, I don’t mean-“

“No, you’re fine.” He laughs, moving his head around to get more comfortable, “I’m shocked, too. But, now that I think about it, you’re right. Like, how small of a world does it have to be for you and I, when the universe knows we liked each other back in the day, to just come together again, I mean.” He sighs, “I would have liked it to be not like this, I mean us being married to two different people, not like, this.”

He motions his hand over your bodies and you nod, “No, I know.” You smile, “I just..” you shake your head and Sam brushes his fingers over your cheek, “What, sweetheart?”

“I wish I would have told you I liked you in high school.” You shrug with a laugh, “Maybe this could have been us from the beginning.”

“Hey, things happen.” He shrugs, “That doesn’t change how I feel about you now.” He smiles and presses his lips to your forehead, “We should probably get dressed, I don’t know when Julia will be home.”

You let out a sigh, nodding as you continue to lay there, “Sam.” He lays back down, “What, baby?”

You stare at him for a second, eyes glossing over, “Thank you for making me feel beautiful.”

You could tell that caught him off guard, but he shakes his head, “You don’t ever have to thank me, you were beautiful then, and you are even more beautiful now.”

He presses his lips to yours, “No matter what you go through, no matter what happens, I’m always going to think about that about you.”

You smile, pressing your lips to his before sitting up, “You know..” you giggle as you think about what you want to say, “from being that nerdy saxophonist in the schools marching band, you really turned into a dilf.”

“Ah, ha. Ha. Very funny.” He smirks, and you can see the redness forming on his cheeks. You smile, shaking your head as you pull your shirt over it.

As soon as you, the front door opens and you look at Sam. He nods, “Just get, Link, I’ll tell her I just got home.”

You nod, walking over to grab your son from the pack and play. You shush him quietly as you make your way down the steps.

Julia goes pale as soon as she sees you and you give her a smile, “Hey, I used your pack and play for Link, I hope that’s okay.”

She nods, batting the air, “Yeah, that’s- that’s fine.”

You give her a weird look, “Hey, what happened earlier, you like hung up super fast. Was everything okay?”

She looks between you and Sam and the tears start falling, “I-I’m sorry. I just-“

“Whoa, hey.” Sam walks over, laying a hand on her shoulder but she bats it away, “I’m sorry.”

“I’m going to get him home.” You look at Sam and he nods, “Thanks for watching the kids today.” You nod, “Not a problem.”

As you bend down to pick up the diaper bag, Julia sighs, “I didn’t go to Toronto to finalize a magazine.” Your heart stated racing as soon as you heard her words, you knew what was coming.

“So, where did you go?” Sam asks and she looks at you, “I went to Colorado.”

Your brows shoot up and you stay silent.

“Leo.. went to Colorado..” Sam crosses his arms, “but I’m guessing.. it wasn’t for work.”

Julia gasps for air, “I-it hasn’t been- it just-“ she lays her hands over her face and sobs. Sam looks at you and you can’t help but laugh, “Oh, my god.”

“I-I’m so-“

You cut her off, “No, I mean. I’m mad, but at the same time..” you take a deep breath, “It’s okay.”

“It-it’s.. okay?” She stares at you, makeup running down her face, “Wh-at do you m-mean?”

“I just fucked your husband, so I guess we’re even.”

»--•--«

Let me know what you thought of this one! Thank you so much for reading! I love you sooo much! Catch you in the next one! 🖤

          Midgard was such an odd place. From its technology to the strange euphemisms people used, it was truly peculiar.

Oh, but you belonged in Asgard. Loki just needed to convince you of that. To show you.

You belonged wherever he was; you just didn’t understand that yet.

 But you would, in time.

Loki made another round through the library, still not focusing on any of the tomes before him. His mind was elsewhere.

Light shone in through a window, as if welcoming him to select a book and read it by the mid-morning sun.

Who can resist a window so full of sunshine?

The window overlooked the massive courtyard, as did many of the royals’ chambers, as well as a few chambers reserved for diplomats. Hospitality, or some such.

One window across the way was guarded by a delicate curtain. Loki had expected to see the curtain swaying gently in the breeze. Instead, it simply hung in place.

His guest must not have awakened yet to open the window. How long did mortals sleep for, anyway?

Or perhaps…?

No, it was certainly no fault of his.

You would wake when you were ready. You would throw open the window, take in the beautiful sights of Asgard, and thank him for bringing you to your new home.

He could hardly wait to hear you say that you no longer wanted any part of Earth. Midgard, you would call it with a wrinkled nose. You would scoff at the idea of returning, at the idea of anything it had to offer.

Anyone it had to offer.

Loki frowned for a moment, then shook his head. No, you would surely choose him.

~*~*~*~

This was certainly no hotel you had ever been to. You had never seen anything nearly as luxurious as this place.

When did you get here? How did you get here?

You had some vague recollection of a party the previous evening, and mingling with your husband’s new coworkers. You had only met them once, maybe twice, before the party.

They seemed nice enough, and not as intimidating as you expected from a gaggle of supers. Sure, you had initially been a little insecure about him being around Natasha, but you seemed to hit it off with her and soon forgot all about it.

Let’s see. Who else was there? As you took a mental head count of who you remembered seeing, you notice everyone had been there. The whole Avengers squad.

Oh, and you vaguely remembered seeing this one tall guy with dark hair, but you weren’t completely sure who he was. You may have seen him at a previous gathering, too, but you certainly didn’t remember being introduced.

Maybe your husband couldn’t think of his name, either.

Your roll call did little to jog your memory, so you decided to look around the room. Nothing specific stuck out to you. The room was decked out in more gold than you had ever seen in one place, but that hardly seemed suspicious. Surprising, sure, but not quite suspicious.

There was nothing of yours in the room, save for your purse. The little bag sat neatly on the gilded vanity beside the window.

It was your own purse. Still, you absently rifled through it, knowing it would hardly contain any clues.

Identification, keys, broken cell phone, a pack of chewing gum, sunglasses… Nothing out of the ordinary.

You stopped, trying to think of when you broke your phone. Oh, well. You had always been a bit clumsy. Maybe you dropped it while you were at the party last night.

Just… from high enough that it wouldn’t turn back on.

Lovely.

An icy chill slithered down your spine, eliciting a shudder. Not that the room was cold, but something… just was not right.

It was a lot like that feeling you had been getting at home on certain nights, when you and your husband had been making love.

Where were you, anyway?

You pulled back the curtain, but nothing about the scenery looked remotely familiar. The courtyard was pretty, but you simply did not recognize anything you saw.

Or anyone you saw, for that matter. The few people in your field of vision were certainly not any you remembered meeting before.

With a shrug, you stepped away from the window. Had the armoire been open, or did that just happen since you got up?

No matter. Curiosity beckoned you forth, like a magnet.

When you looked inside the armoire, you gasped.  It was filled with beautiful, luxurious ballgowns.

Someone must have already been staying in this room!

And she clearly had a favorite color.

Every dress was made from deep, saturated shades of green with emeralds embedded amongst the gold embroidery.

Whoever’s room this was sure had expensive taste.

None of your questions were getting answered. If anything, you were only coming up with more and more questions.

Where were you? How did you get to wherever this place was? How long had you been here?

And where in the world was your husband?

Knock, knock.

You could have jumped out of your skin at the sudden sound. After a quick glance down to confirm that, yes, you were decent, you went to answer the door.

As if it had been your own door to answer all along.

~*~*~*~

Loki greeted you with a canty smile, oblivious to your whirlwind of questions, as he entered the room. “(Name). How did you sleep, darling?”

Your brows furrowed and your face crinkled as if you had just smelled something dead.

Hardly the response he had expected from you.

Certainly, you at least recognized him… right?

You had to.

Ah, you just needed a moment. Perhaps you still needed to get your bearings from sleeping so well the previous night.

His smile never faltered as he repeated his question.

Still, you stared at him in silence. Like a mouse meeting the gaze of a pit viper.

And you looked about as brave, too.

~*~*~*~

The man looked at you – spoke to you – as if he knew you personally. As if you were supposed to know him, too.

Did you? Had you seen him somewhere before?

What was his name?

“Sir?” Your voice squeaked. “Where am I?”

He gave a forced-sounding laugh, like he was trying to mask something else behind it. “Asgard,” he said, as if the answer had been obvious.

Asgard? Didn’t your husband have a coworker from there?

The longer you waited, the more certain you were that one of his green eyes was developing a twitch.

After a sigh, he continued. “You will like it here. I am sure of it.”

“H-How did I get here?” A part of you wondered if maybe you should have started by asking his name, but that was a newer question.

The man’s smile softened, as if he felt sorry for you. Why? “Oh, my dear. Don’t you remember?”

You shook your head.

Everything within you screamed to back away from this stranger when he reached for you. But… you stood still.

~*~*~*~

“Oh, no, thank you. I’m married.” You hoped you didn’t come across as rude, but you had no interest in dancing with strange men.

Natasha gave a tipsy giggle when the guy left. “You know, your husband is over there playing darts. Besides, he’s not gonna care if you just dance.”

You shrugged. “Maybe, but I just don’t feel right about it.”

“I get that.” Natasha hopped off her barstool and informed you that she would be back.

“Do you need me to go with you?” You had no idea how many shots she had thrown back.

She waved you off as she made her way to the powder room.

The bartender set down a glass and tapped his fingers against the wood of the bar.

“Hm?” You turned around and saw a cocktail, much like the one you had just finished. “Um… Sorry, I-I, uh… I didn’t order this.”

He nodded to a man at the other side of the bar. “No, but he did.”

You met the man’s emerald gaze, and he briefly raised his own drink in your direction with an almost-too-friendly smile.

Had nobody been listening to you?

You shook your head and pointed to your wedding ring.

“Do you always reject gifts?” The bartender furrowed one brow.

All you could muster out was a wordless stammer.

The glass groaned against the bar as it was pushed farther in your direction.

“Hey, look at you!” Natasha seemed a little too chipper when she returned. “Got somebody buying you a drink?”

“Yeah, but…” You sigh. “I’m not exactly fishing for a date here.”

“Pfft,” she scoffed. “It’s a drink that you don’t have to pay for. Come on! What’s the worst that could happen?”

Maybe she and the bartender were right. Maybe it was just a simple drink.

You accept the drink with a shrug. “Thanks.”

“Ooh!” Nat squealed when she saw him grinning at you. “So, Loki bought you a drink? Lucky, lucky girl.”

Funny. You could have sworn her eyes were blue earlier.

Through the noise of the party, you just barely hear her giggling as you take a sip.

~*~*~*~

The air quivers in your lungs.

“Th-That… That was you? You bought me that drink?”

He never did break eye contact as he nodded. “Did you enjoy it?”

“O-Okay, listen. I don’t usually have more than one drink, and I have never accepted a drink from a-a stranger before, and I definitely wasn’t, like, trying to… Um… I’m married.”

His smile fell in an instant. “I know.”

Something about the whole situation felt wrong.

“Did we ever actually meet? I mean, you know my name.”

“Good question.” He gave a soft, wistful laugh. “But it’s certainly hard to believe we haven’t known each other since the beginning of time.”

Wherever this Asgard place was, you doubted they understood the meaning of the word “married.”

“W-Well… Um, I should be getting back home. My husband is probably wondering where I am.”

His hand fell from your temple to your shoulder blade. “Why rush? Stay.”

“I mean… Thank you for, you know, not making me drive, but I didn’t make it home last night. I’m sure he’s worried.”

Come to think of it, why did he bring you here? Your husband was at the party, too, so you had a way to get home. Even if he had been drinking, too, what would have kept this guy from driving the both of you home?

Nothing about this made sense.

“He didn’t drive, either.”

You felt an eyebrow twitch. How could he have known what you were thinking?

The whole day was getting weirder by the minute, and you had barely been awake for an hour.

You took a half-step backward as he offered his hand.

~*~*~*~

He couldn’t help but chuckle at your expression. Oh, you still had much to learn if you were to be queen.

“Loki.”

You stared at his hand as if he were holding out a dead rat.

“Don’t be shy, pet. You were not sure that we had met. Now, we have.”

Still, you hesitated.

No matter. He was willing to wait all day if he had to.

Although, that was by no means his preference.

“I’m sure you shake hands on Midgard, no?”

Your lips formed a thin line as you shook his hand. Clearly wary, but you accepted.

He could feel his own heart fluttering in his chest at the contact.

Maybe yours wasn’t just yet… At least, not for the same reasons.

All in time.

“I… I guess you already know my name.”

Another chuckle.

“B-But, how do you know my name?”

Oh, you still had so much to learn.

~*~*~*~

At least you knew his name now.

“And… Why am I here? Instead of… home?”

His laugh sounded innocent, but something about it unsettled you. “My dear, you are home.”

“No, I mean my home.”

Loki gestured to the room around you, as if to say, “Duh.”

You couldn’t quite tell if he thought this was funny, or if he was stupid, or… something else.

“I don’t live here, you know. And you still haven’t told me how you know my name.”

“The entire compound knows your name. That husband of yours made sure of that.”

The way he spat the word put a knot in your stomach. Why the bile?

“But, speaking of demanding answers, I have asked you two questions, and you have yet to answer either. Come, sit.” He made his way to a divan at the opposite end of the room.

“Um…” You plopped awkwardly onto a nearby ottoman instead.

“How did you sleep? I must say, I went to a bit of trouble getting this room prepared for you.”

Your saliva felt like a rock in your throat. “F-Fine, thanks.”             

He had to let you leave eventually…

… Right?

The look on his face inspired zero confidence in that.

“And did you enjoy your drink? I’m sure that helped you rest.”

Another rock in your throat.

“It… it was fine.”

A grin spread from one ear to the other. “I am so glad to hear that. I made it myself, after all.”

“I-I… I thought you bought the drink?”

He gave you a wink that came across more menacing than flirty.

But if he made the drink…

Oh, no.

“Now, tell me. Do your dresses fit?”

“Um…”

You followed his gaze to the armoire. Dresses…?

“They were designed specifically for you, darling.”

You could feel the blood dripping out of your face. “Um…”

Why couldn’t you think of something else to say? Something coherent?

“Have you not tried them on yet?”

Nothing made sense.

“I, uh, I thought they were someone else’s.”

Loki chuckled lightly before standing. “Choose one, and try it on. Then I have something for you.”

At least he was finally leaving.

As he closed the door behind him, you clumsily stood up to look through the armoire again.

You deliberately chose the dress with the most coverage. The longest sleeves. The highest neckline.

No way were you giving this guy anything to look at.

But… the dress fit.

Great. Now you didn’t even have an excuse to just wear what you had on before.

Loki seemed pleased to see you in the dress. It had not been his favorite of the bunch, but it pleased him nonetheless.

You didn’t recall letting him back into the room. Maybe it was best not to think about that too much.

He kissed your hand, then narrowed his eyes at your ring. His glare turned to you for a moment before softening slightly. “Come with me.”

Your feet were too confused to obey, and you stumbled on the way out of the room.

As Loki dragged you through corridor after corridor, you looked around. There had to be a way out, right? Any place with an entrance should have an exit.

Palace or not.

Your surroundings started to become darker. More ominous.

“W-Where… Where are you taking me?”

His pace never wavered or stopped as he looked over his shoulder at you. “Don’t you want a grand tour?”

There was something pernicious hiding in his white smile.

You just knew it.

Loki led you through the palace, pointing out various rooms and explaining what the artwork represented.

“But…” He hesitated for dramatic effect, like a deranged showman. “Perhaps the grimmest of intrigues lies in… the dungeons.”

It was every bit as eerie as you had expected, and only seemed to get worse the farther into the dungeons you progressed.

“Why did you bring me here?”

He sighed. “My dear, we’ve been over this.”

“No, no. I mean, why did you bring me to a dungeon?”

“It’s not ‘a dungeon,’ (Name). The dungeons.”

You swallowed yet another rock of saliva and waited for his answer.

An answer that never came.

At the back of the dungeons sat an anxious-looking man in his cell.

You shrieked with… excitement to see him? That he was alive? Fear of what may have happened?

Had you been blindfolded, you still would have recognized him.

“Enjoy this. It will hardly be the joyous reunion you hoped for, but a reunion nonetheless.”

With that, Loki shoved you to the ground in front of your husband’s cell.

The glass was clearly soundproofed from one side, but you could see the anxiety, the relief on your husband’s face when he saw you. You could even read his lips as he called out to you and asked, “Are you okay?!”

You each pressed your palms to the glass, wishing it wasn’t there. Wishing you weren’t there.

“I told you he didn’t drive. But you’re quite careless with your beverages on Midgard.”

He snickered, giving his words a moment to sink in.

You turned to look up at Loki, unsure whether to be horrified or incensed. “So, you really did roofie us.”

“Would you have come here otherwise?” He clearly already knew the answer. “I may have bought your drink, but I was your bartender, as well.”

Despite the soundproofing, you knew your husband was beating against the glass and calling Loki every name in the book.

“And don’t forget your friend.” With a flick of his wrist, a ghostly image of Natasha appeared, her eyes that taunting shade of green you had seen before. “You did need a little encouragement, after all.”

You could have vomited at any moment.

“But it was all worth it. Wouldn’t you agree?”

You glared up at him.

Loki scoffed at your silence and waved away the illusion of Natasha. “What does Earth have that you could not find here, hm? What makes it so special?”

Your expression softened when you turned back to look at your caged husband. It broke your heart to see him like that.

~*~*~*~

Loki snorted at the sight.

“Just because of him? Is he the only reason you are so attached to your planet?”

You didn’t answer him.

“Oh, but just think: elsewhere, you could be queen. Right here, in fact.”

He saw you freeze in place, and lowered himself to look into your eyes.

“Ah, yes. Loyal subjects, every luxury you could imagine, and if all that could somehow not be enough for you…”

You shuddered as Loki leaned in close, his lips brushing against your ear.

“… You would hold the king’s heart in your hands.”

He heard you gulp.

With a deep breath to calm your nerves, you turn toward Loki. Your nerves drowning beneath a cracked mask of stoicism.

“This is a beautiful palace, but if you don’t mind, we would both like to go home. Please.”

One brow quirked up. “Go home? If that is what you wanted, why did you put on a traditional dress?”

~*~*~*~

“I-I, um…”

You had no solid answer, and he knew it.

He had tricked you.

No matter how you did it, leaving would be no easy task.

But you certainly couldn’t stay.

Especially since Loki clearly had some twisted fantasy of convincing you to stay for-freaking-ever.

The sight of his approaching hand didn’t even register until you felt his cool fingers against your temple, gently dragging a strand of hair behind your ear.

“It would mean the world to me if you stayed.” His voice sounded soft. As if he was pleading with you not to leave him.

“Would you please let us go home?” You hoped your tone was as sweet as his was. “We don’t belong here, really.”

“Oh, but you do! Well…” Loki turned to scowl at your husband before returning his piercing gaze to you. “You do. You belong at the king’s side, with your hand in mine. Stay, and I will show you a love the realms have never seen.”

All you could do was shake your head. This was getting too weird.

“Darling,” he ignored you. “Do you love me?”

You never did eat breakfast that morning, but something within tried to heave up the emptiness.

Loki pretended to pout for a moment. “Consider it, then. The two of you will stay in Asgard until you reach a decision. I will wait for as long as I must, my dear (Name), but I certainly suggest that you do not dawdle.”

He certainly was not going to make any of this easy.

Clark frowns at his friend, his cape draping against his feet as he sat. "Have you tried talking to her?" Bruce asks, his arms crossing over his chest. "No...I just don't know what to say. Things have gotten so bad. We barely talk and a lot of it is my fault. I look at her and I want to tell her I love her, but I think it'll be a moot point so we don't say anything,"

Bruce hums, passing Clark a glass. "Know you can't get drunk, but it'll help. I've noticed. It's destroying you," Clark sighs, knocking the glass back in one single gulp. "I don't know what happened to us. I hated bringing this life to her, the danger, and so I don't talk about it. Then we just stopped talking about anything. She's asleep when I come home, or quiet. I feel like if I say anything we're going to argue. I just don't know where to start,"

"How about a trip? Like a couple's retreat or something. Go out of town. Metropolis will be fine without you, you know?" "She did ask about a vacation a few weeks ago," "And?" "And....I never asked her about it. How did I get like this?" Bruce stands quietly, patting Clark on the shoulder. "I don't think that matters, but if you still love her, then you should go fix it before there's nothing else to fix,"

Clark brings himself to a stand, nodding softly. "Yeah...yeah. I owe you,"

****

When Clark arrived home, he felt excited but nervous. He didn't realize how bad things had truly gotten. But he would do anything to fix it. The living room light was on, and he knew he had a lot of work to do. There was a lot to talk about, but he was ready. Things wouldn't be fixed overnight, but he would do whatever he needed to make this work. He loved you more than anything.

He knew that things weren't quite the same for a long time. He started to distance himself when things as Superman become more dangerous. And a part of him knew he did that purposefully. If he didn't tell you, you weren't in any danger. All he was doing was keeping you safe. That's at least what he thought.

When he walks in, he's surprised that you're not in the living room. Before he makes his way further, it's the piece of paper on the table that stops him. He can read it before he even gets close, and his body feels like cement. He can't move.

He swallows, getting closer. The ink is dry, but smudged, the water droplets in the paper permanently stained.

He sits heavily in the chair, his heart rate increasing. Your name was neatly printed above the signature. He doesn't know how to feel. He feels numb. You signed it. He couldn't be surprised, but he never thought it would get here.

If you signed it, should he? Were you finished with this marriage?

He picks up the pen, and for the first time, he feels human as his hand shakes. It trembles. He remembers when you first met. You bumped into each other at the Daily Planet. You'd just left an office, doing an interview on someone about some ancient history piece. You bumped right into him, tumbling all your papers to the floor. He was smitten the moment he saw you.

He remembered sharing the truth with you the first time, your first date, the first night you made love. The day he proposed, when the two of you got married. When you brought this house. All those firsts. He even remembered your first argument. The two of you used to be so happy. Where did he go wrong?

He sets the pen down, making his way up the stairs, hoping to talk you out of this. He'd do whatever it took. Whatever it takes to keep you. Counseling. That trip you wanted. Whatever. Anything.

The bedroom door is already open, and he almost staggers to his knees when he realizes you aren't home. The bed was neatly made, things how you'd normally leave them. When he opens the closet door, his heart sinks. A few of your suitcases are gone, but some of your clothes were still hanging up. Where did you go?

He pulls out his phone, immediately calling you. It goes to voicemail, and he sighs. When it beeps, he's silent. He contemplates hanging up but decides to say something.

"Hey...I...Please call me soon," He hangs up the phone, sitting on the bed.

****

You saw the voicemail from Clark, but you were too afraid to listen to it. You did your best to keep your mind off things. Touring the city with your boss and his assistants, traveling through the deserts to view the exhibitions.

The first day was hard, but the next two days became a bit easier. But on the fourth day, you were ready to rip your hair out. You could admit that you weren't being fair by silencing any attempts he made to contact you. You were afraid of what he'd might say.

Good riddance? Your things will be shipped to you? It's not what you wanted at all, but you signed the papers thinking that maybe it's what he wanted and it would make things easier.

You fiddle with your ring, twisting it on your finger, tears welling in your eyes. After all this time, you never took it off. You loved him more than anything. But was it enough? Neither of you made any attempts to talk about your dwindling marriage. You both ignored the signs. Maybe this should have been addressed a long time ago?

A knock sounds at your hotel room door, and you sigh. It was probably house keeping again. "No thank you!" You call. You plop down on the bed, sniffling. You grab your phone, contemplating on finally looking.

The knock sounds again, and you sigh. "Please, go away!" Again, a knock sounds, more rapid than the last, and you huff, getting up. "I said-," Pulling the door open, you freeze, your eyes on the bouquet of flowers. Trailing your gaze up, you see Clark, his thin frame of glasses brushed against the bridge of his noise.

He looks exhausted. You stare at him for a long moment, adverting your gaze when his eyes catch yours.

"Clark..." You breathe, blinking rapidly. "Can I please come in?" You swallow, stepping backwards to let him in. He smoothly glides in, the scent of his cologne wafting against your nose. It was your favorite scent on him.

You close the door softly, your hands feeling clammy. You stay pressed against the door, facing away from him, your heart hammering in your chest. You didn't do what to do. You didn't know what to say.

You feel warm, and you pull off your sweater, pursing your lips. You were too afraid to turn around. You were terrified to have this confrontation. Flowers were a good sign yes, but could whatever this conversation hold fix things?

Clark doesn't know where to start. He can see you're trembling by the door, and he swipes a hand through his hair. He didn't prepare for a speech, but he had things he knew that needed to be said. Showing up wasn't enough to win you over. He knew that.

He pulls out the papers in his pocket, frowning. He only brought them for the sake of if this didn't mend the broken pieces, he'd sign it for you. Every part of him wanted to rip it to shreds and then disintegrate it.

"I made some calls and....found out where you were since I couldn't get a hold of you..." He breaks the silence first, setting the flowers on the bed. You've yet to face him, leaning against the door. He could hear your heart erratically skyrocketing, and he's worried you'll throw yourself into a panic.

Your fingers clench around your sweater, and you let out a shaky breath. "I didn't come here to beg...I just....I didn't sign them. The papers," He whispers, and you bite your tongue to keep a sound from leaving your mouth.

"I don't...want to sign them," His voice cracks, and your shoulders drop, and you suck in another breath. You finally turn, blinking back tears. His tie is crooked, his eyes red-rimmed. He looks tired. Not just physically—he looks like a man who hasn’t known peace in weeks.

For the first time in months, you really see him. The small lines of worry. The soft curve of his mouth when he’s trying not to cry. His tense shoulders that used to feel like home.

Your sweater slips from your fingers and falls to the floor. You don’t move to pick it up.

Clark’s eyes follow it down, then drift back to you. You can see the conflict there—he’s begging to close the space, to take you into his arms, but he doesn’t. He’s waiting for you to say something, to let him.

“I kept thinking,” He says, quieter now, “If I just worked a little harder, if I kept you out of the danger, you’d be safe. But I didn’t realize I was the one hurting you.” He steps forward just enough that you can feel the warmth radiating from him. “I thought I was protecting you by keeping things from you. All I did was build a wall.”

Your lip trembles, and you bite down on it to stop the sound that threatens to escape.

He exhales shakily, the faintest shimmer of tears in his eyes. “You asked me once if love was enough,” He says. “I didn’t answer you. I should’ve. Because it is, sweetheart. It always has been," The folded papers drop to the floor and you close your eyes, your chest starting to feel heavy.

Your name slips from his lips, and you bite your own to hold back the sob wanting to release from you. When you open your eyes, he's closer, and his hand raises to your face, yet he doesn't touch you. It shakes, and looking at him reveals tears on his cheeks.

The moment you lean into his hand, this invisible dam breaks, and he's brushing a tear from your face. "I'll follow you to the ends of the Earth if I have to," He whispers, cradling your face with both hands, tilting your head up so he can see your face. "Just don't tell me it's over," You don't say anything, but you don't pull away.

And for now, that's enough. It'll always be enough.