#mmfdfanfic

Putting this back together was hell! If anyone knows how to easily take out html tags, please let me know. But I’m hoping once I get approved for ao3 again, that will make it easier. Let me know if you like this and if you prefer a03 or tumblr so I know what is best for the others.

Summary: Rae finds smoking annoying. Finn finds Rae annoying. Will they ever find common ground?

Long time no see! *coughs guiltily*

I’m not going to apologize, but here’s some fic! (Okay, the truth is that I kept hoping I’d have something of my own to list in the round up, but I have to just suck it up, post the backlog, and get my arse in gear with writing.)

Since it’s been an age, there is a good chance I’ve missed something, a story, a new author, or a new place to post fic. It’s easier for me to focus on Tumblr offerings, but let me know if I’ve left something out (wherever it may be) and I’ll update the post.

Mega thanks to those writers keeping the fandom alive, and Happy Holidays to all!

* * * * *

@finn-nelson-for-the-win -- Good Neighbors Ch. 6 - Ch. 7 - Ch. 8 - Ch. 9 - Ch. 10 - Ch. 11 - Ch. 12 - Ch. 13 - Ch. 14 - Ch. 15 - Ch. 16 - Ch. 17

@flirtmcgirt -- Make It a Double Pt. 1 - Close to You Pt. 2 (FYI, flirtmcgirt has announced a fic retirement, so please don’t message her for additional chapters or updates.)

@kneekeyta -- a bit like love - by the way - Prompt “Am I your lock screen?” - Sleep Tight - Caught in the Dark - “boyfriend” - the good, the bad, and everything in between - Beautiful Illusion Pt. 1 - Pt. 2 - Pt. 3 - Pt. 4 - Pt. 5 - Pt. 6 - Pt. 7 - Pt. 8 - Broken Hearts & Broken Windows - Secrets in the Dark - Unlocking Secrets Pt. 11

@lurkernolonger -- Alright - Getting Kinda Used to Being Someone You Love

@mariamirallegro -- Yes Ch. 4

@peterjakes -- The Two Months Ch. 1 - Ch. 2 - Ch. 3 - Ch. 4

@rockinthebeastmode -- Casual Affair - Prompt ER Date - Prompt “Why are you awake?” - Mess Around

Hey guys, this is the second part of my first mmdf fanfic. I hope you like it ❤️

@mmfdstuff @mymadfatdiarygifs @emzi06 @lily-pop-2 @lilaviolet @mmfdstuff @i-dream-of-emus @mymadfatdiary-br @mmfdofficial-blog @rae-nelson @rockinthebeastmode @fizzezlikecherrycola @fckyas-mmfd @finn-nelson-pls @happyfrasers @how-ardently @hey1tskat1e @ch1darkcy @chiefbellamy-blog @kneekeyta @kit-writes-fanfic @i-love-mmfd @madfatty @endemictoearth @eveerez @milllott @imeantobecontinued @ps-ilovemyself @mymadfatdiaryfinnandrae @flowerthroughdisarrayy @mmfdfanfic

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Carter's P.O.V

Me and Amanda finally arrived at school and she's already the main attraction. Amanda is like everyone could define as their biggest dreams. Flowing ebony hair, athletic, the leader of the cheerleaders and obviously, she's the apple of everyone's eyes. I used to worship her, like everyone did, but now, after two years together, I'm finally seeing how mean and horrible she can really be. The worst part is that I hate what I'm when I'm with her, for everyone here in this school, I'm just the most popular guy in the school, the lucky bastard who can get on Amanda's Wayne knickers. But deep down, I know I'm more than just this stupid label, and I have to do something for them recognise me for who I'm, but I really don't know what.

"Oh god, look at those nerds, probably they've never kissed a girl before". She laughed, making me roll my eyes. 

"Whatever, they are probably busy with something else". I said, placing some books on my locker. 

"Aw such a grumpy lad". Amanda caressed my arm.

"I'm sorry" I closed the locker. "Is just… I hate going back to school. It's sucks Mandy". I sighed. 

"What can I do to make you feel better?" She whispered, placing kisses on my neck. God, if she keeps kissing me like this, I'll get a stiff right here in the middle of the corridor, oh fuck. 

"If you keep kissing me like this, I won't last longer". I groaned.

"So, what about if you come to mine? my parents gonna be working until 8". She told, as she places her arms around my neck.

"I don't know Mandy, I have to practice, the auditions will be coming soon". I told her. 

"But you are already good, no one compares to you baby" She caressed my arm gently. "Please, I missed you. Being in Amsterdam without you was horrible". 

Although she was so mean, I knew how much she supports me to follow my dreams. I think that I'll always be grateful for this part of her, the part where I can see that she still being the same Amanda that I fallen in love with so many years ago. 

"I'll only going with two conditions" I stepped closer to her. "One: you'll wear that lace set that makes me crazy about". I whisper, kissing the way down to her neck. "Two: That you let me please you as much as I want" I kiss her lips hungry.

"A bit of lace and you going down on me? How on earth am I supposed to blow this off?" Amanda comments, with a wide grin on her face. 

And then, some time later, I got some free time before class and I'll use it to choose new songs to practice while I waited for Amanda. The auditions on University of Liverpool it's in about 2 months and there still a lot to practice. As I was going to the library, I heard the most beautiful song I've ever heard. It was coming from the music class, it was someone playing the cello so nicely that it was thrilling. The door was ajar by a few inches, which was enough for me to peck inside. There playing, was a girl, with short curly hair, rose cheeks, who glided smoothly the arch on the iron strings as she played the 5th Beethoven symphony. The soft music notes flowing in the air, the goosebumps each right note gives. It was perfect, brilliant in a way that I've never seen before. As she finished playing, she then glanced up. She was as beautiful as the song she played. 

"Wow!" I came into the classroom, clapping my hands. "You were amazing" I compliment, looking at her confused face. "Sorry, I'm…"

"Carter Nelson, everyone here knows who you are" She said, while she placed her cello on the case. "What do you want? you want to take the piss out of me?".

"No, no! Of course not" I denied hard. "I just think you were sound". 

She narrowed her eyes at me, clearly don't believing in what I was saying. 

"Thanks, I've been practicing a lot" she huffed a laugh. 

As I was going to ask for her name, her phone rings, interrupting me. 

Here’s something, don’t ask me when it is. Or how it started. Long time no see MMFD fandom ✌🏼

P.s I know I’ve got other works not completed. I got bored easily, didn’t feel my fan fic writing was exciting enough. This shit is hard, but every now and then I come back and have a snoop xoxo

Title: One Shot Wonder

(Insert) - this has nothing to do with the main story line, only the main characters.

Rae POV:

Fucking rain again. One day, I just needed one day of sunshine in this shitbox of a town. But, of course, Stamford new how to kick me up the rear when going gets tough. Why I chose to stay here was beyond me, I would rather be living it up in a city somewhere on the other side of the country. Actually, fuck this continent, take me somewhere else. Anywhere else.. Well, right now anyway.

Yeah, I’ve had a bad day. The day Oasis release their reunion album - on vinyl only! Is the day my car decides to shit itself, and the clouds open up and piss all over my already bad day. So now here I am trudging through the puddles that have collectively grouped together, (I swear just for me), just to get my copy before it’s sold out. Stamford is a small town, Jono told me Thursday that they were only getting a limited amount of copies and that he had lots of interest in them already. I ain’t missing out. Even if that means being cold, shitty, and wet like rag doll. I’m getting my hands on a copy.

If only you had taken finn up on his offer the other day.

My subconscious snaps. Or really I should say my inner bitch. I imagine her as a tall, thin blonde, with banging legs and a great rack. All the things I’m not. But hey, she does look great cracking the whip and lighting a fire up my ass when I over think shit.

Like with Finn, a gorgeous man barking up the wrong tree. Well, I think he’s barking up my tree. He’s sweet, and broody. A total god from his head to his toes. He’s asked to do things with me, and go places but I shut down completely when I’m around him. My intelligent brain turns to complete moosh, and I blush like a bloody beetroot. All red and clammy, total suttering mess. And still he call me girl, and the odd ‘love’.

I shake my head. I’m over thinking once again, he’s just being polite. I must just keep him entertained, I mean my mouth has a mind of its own. Yap, yap, yap. When I’m not stuttering. He smiles, laughs, and gives feed back. Comfortable... Just friends. Yeah, that’s it. Friends.

I stepped over another puddle, only to side step into another. Nice going Rae, you’ll look like a wet noodle by the time you arrive at the record store. Scare all the customers away, then I can get my hands on that sweet, sweet candy. I was another 5 blocks away atleast, down Lane drive until I reach Sturt Avenue, which of course leads to Main Street. Which oldly enough hosts 80% of the shops around this cramped town. It was only just before 8am, close enough to their open time to make me panic and pick up speed.

I didn’t hear them at first. I was to focused on getting to the shop to register what was happening around me. When I felt the pull on my arm did I then realise someone was trying to get my attention, in a very informal way. I stopped, and moved way from the touch immediately. “Calm down darl. Didn’t you here me calling ya name?” Of course my day just had to get worse.

Liam was there looking a little bit disheveled but otherwise clean. He had become a lot more rounder around the middle since I had seen him last. His face aged beyond his years, it had been nearly 10 years since I hooked up with him in freshman year at a college in Leeds. It was not pleasant and I was very drunk. I blame Chloe, and Izzy, and chop, and Archie for that night. They practical poured the liquor down my throat all night, my 18th birthday. I was the baby of the group, even though I didn’t look like it. I started when I was only 17, high grades in high school allowed me to graduate early.

Chloe, also a freshman, or aka the queen of the gang. Blonde, skinny, wealthy and an absolutely sweetheart. She looks like she drags her fingernails down a chalkboard for a living, and trust me she has her moods. But she has been my best friend for 10 years. Izzy, a bubbly little petite ginger and also a freshman. Chop, who was a senior was a typical textbook “clown”, and had a wickedly dirty mouth. I think my then virginal ears use to bleed back then. Archie, my beautiful boy. Gay and as sexy as hell, in a I’m in love with a nerd sort of way. My crush on him lasted 2 weeks when we first met. Until he drunkenly let it slip on our ‘first date’ I just laughed and popped the top button on my jeans there was no need for me to remain uncomfortable anymore. Then there was finn, who arrived at our school in his senior year, when I was a junior. He was hot, broody and a total jock. Not that he acted that way. No he was an old soul.

Izzy and Chop got married 2 years ago, stayed in Leeds and started a family. One baby, a adorable peach fuzzy little boy named Timmy. Chloe married a screenwriter named johnathon 5 years ago, they both moved to London together straight after university. They are a beautiful couple, who would rather share dogs and careers, than a baby. Archie is dating a handsome man by the name of Eric, nearly coming up a year. Currently traveling Europe, destination Italy. I got a postcard the other day. Finn and I decided to both move back to Stamford after university, I more so for my mum who was still of a bitter old women since my dad walked out, and lonely non the less. Finn graduated with a business degree, and I majored in English literature. He opened a small mechanic shop, east of Main Street. He even went back to school to earn his trade as an auto technician so he could do most of the work himself. And I, I brought the old book shop, and on the side I do some free lancing writing for different publishers. We both sit quite pretty these days.

“Jesus Rae, you looking a bit wet there love. Didn’t know you would be that happy to see me” Liam tried to joke. Failing miserably, but not noticing I couldn’t give a fuck because he was to obsorbed in himself and what he said. I had known Liam since I was 5, but only by name and face, not until university that is. And ever since then whenever he sees me he will always, always try to get my attention. I didn’t see him very often, but he was hard to shake off.

“Is there something you needed Liam? I’m kind of in a rush and...” I was cut of mid sentence by obnoxious snort from liam. His whole demeanour changed. He became tight and Ridget, his jaw squared and now he was sporting a pretty pissed off scowl. Wow, that’s different.

“Ya always have some excuse don’t cha Rae. I’m only trying to be nice to ya, but your always mugging me off, making me look like a twit” he spat with distain, I stepped back further until I didn’t care that I was standing directly in a puddle. I just wanted distance. But that didn’t work. I was suddenly pushed up against an old bus stop, scared and fucking mad.

“Liam get off me! I will scream if you do not let me go right now!” I sounded panicked but that was only because I was petrified. This had never happened to me, willingly or otherwise.

“Oh shut up you dumb whore. Ya should I should of just taken ya that night. Yan were so ready for me” he breathed in my face and That’s when I smelt the beer on his breath, and notice how bloodshot is eyes truely were. He was drunk, the bastard is out of his fucking mind and drunk

“I will scream if you do not let me go. I will defend myself, so fuck off” I tugged my left hand out of his grip, which he had pinned against the glass. I then through my left elbow directly into his face. The momentum of the elbow dazed Liam and he went stumbling back as he clutched his jaw in pain. I was now successful free from his hold. I kicked him straight in the dick and watched the big guy fall. Acting like a total pansy, crying and swearing, and that made me happy. I kicked him again, this time in the stomach - just for good measure.

“You think it’s O-fucking-Kay to grab me or anyone else like that you dirty Bastard!” Kick! “I’ve had a fucking, shit morning and now here you are to make it even worse” kick! “You ever come near me or if you even think about me or communicating with me in any way again I will chop your dick off and feed it to you” kick! I backed up a bit more when Liam started to pull himself off the ground, slowly but surely. So, maybe I wasn’t being as rough with him as I though I was.

Running seemed cowardly, but even with my epic fit just moments ago it didn’t get anyone’s attention, I didn’t want to be alone with this maniac. Run.

“Oh no you fucking don’t” crunch! I spun around just in time to see Liam practically melt to the ground, and Finn shaking his fist. Finn! Where did he come from? “Rae! Rae, are you alright? Are you hurt?” He was panting slightly, and once again my brain turned to moosh. “Are you in shock?” I shook my head, and he relaxed slightly.

“Finn- uh, where- where were you?” I stuttered. “I always go for a run before I’m off to the shop, this is my route, I just happened to be coming around the corner to see you kicking the shit out of him” he pointed to Liam’s unconscious body “I thought you’d be alright but when you tried to get away, he tried to grab you again. So I did the only thing I could think of” he blushed, he actually fucking blushed.

“Thanks. I-I, thank you” I was glad that the rain had decided to let up at that point. Whilst I looked like a drowned rat, he on the other hand looked amazing. Slightly pink cheeks from the run, a beanie firmly in place of his head. His waterproof rain jacket look shinny from the water droplets, and mine started to squelch every time I moved -perfect.

“That’s alright. Where were you off to? In the rain” he looked puzzled, well until I explained to him what has happened throughout my crap-sastic morning.

“I would of done the same thing, maybe if it was blur” he cheekily replied. “Look I live honestly 3 houses down” he pointed to a lovely red brick house “I know you said you didn’t need a ride, but do you really want to walk the rest of the way after what just happened?” He questioned and I evaluated in my head whether it was a good idea or not.

Liam let out a small grown and I practically leaped off the ground and moved further away from his body. I was scared, I didn’t want to take the chance of this happening again. “I’ll take up your offer thank you” I nodded and smiled.

“Finally!” He murmured.

“Wha- what do you mean finally?”

“Are you really that oblivious, Rae?” I nodded. “I’ve had a crush on you for the last 6 years, and in those 6 years I don’t know how many times I’ve tried to do something with you, or offer for me to take you somewhere, and you always turn me down. In a Rae kind of way” I shrugged it off, but I could tell that I really hurt him. I had a small inkling that he was interesting but in all fairness, I never in a million years thought it was true. I just thought he was being polite.

“I’m sorry” I murmured.

“Me too. I should of just told you how I felt, I was a coward.”

We walked side by side over to his house, leaving Liam still laying on the pavement where he belonged. Today has been a total unexpected shock.

“Do you wanna go out with me? Do you want to, like, do something today or tonight? With me. Of course, like as a date?” Oh, he was nervous and It was so cute to see.

“Yes I would. I’m a bit wet though, and don’t you have work?”

“I’m the boss, I choose my own times. Plus Barry is already working, I’m sure he will do fine by himself. I’ll give him a ring when I get inside. And I’m also sure we can swing by your house after the record shop so you can get into some dry clothes. I’d offer to go by your house first if I didn’t know you better, but I knew you’d never go for it after you see the time.”

8:13am FUCK!!

I marched fast over to the passenger door and waited what felt like a whole year for Finn up run inside and get his keys, opting to stay in his running gear. We jumped in the car and he started the ignition.

“Ready girl?” He turned to look at me. I swear he meant more then just ‘are you ready to go to the shop’, no this felt more personal, special even. I smiled because yes I was ready.

“Of course. Lead the way and I’ll follow”

—

They lived happily ever after - together!

The end

So, the Chloe’s sister thing. It’s not what I imagined but it’s the best I could do. These things are far more detailed and elaborate in my head. I wish you could see. 

If you’ve seen all my other whiny posts about this thing you’ll be aware of the back history/head canon bullshit that was the mess in my head. Whether any of it made it’s way in to the finished product is debatable but it has influenced it I feel. Anyway, after all my whinging, and a million different versions, I typed this straight into the box this morning. No one’s seen it but me. 

The title is from the Terence Trent D’arby song of the same name (ask your nan). Not sure it really applies but once I thought of it, I couldn’t get it out of my head.

Whatever, at least I don’t have to think about it anymore.

Hi Guys, me again! So I’ve recently realised that all of my fics are about how Finn looks after Rae, so I thought I’d try to flip it a bit in this one. This is a follow on from my eight months fic. I’m thinking of doing an actual fic page once I can figure it out. Hope you enjoy

She finds herself carrying out Isla’s night-time feed in the nursery again. She marvels at the soft yellow walls that provide such a happy warm space, for her to carry out her mothering duties. She had wanted to go with white walls, and then she would brighten up the space with accessories, Finn had suggested yellow. She hadn’t really liked the idea, but he wouldn’t budge on it, explaining that yellow is the colour of happiness. She’s so happy she gave in and agreed, because she knows her white walls would do nothing but represent blankness, whereas Finn’s yellow made her happy, kept her calm and also warm just like Finn himself.

Finn had always looked after her to his best ability; nothing ever seems too much for him when it comes to her, and now their little girl. She loves him so much it’s hard for her to comprehend. She used to worry all the time that she didn’t put in as much as Finn did. It wasn’t that she ever doubted her feelings, or her commitment to their relationship, but it was more that although she gave her all in their relationship, she always thought Finn had always given more. She can actually remember the very first argument they had had once they had moved out together, she remembers he had been asking her for a few weeks what was wrong with her, and she always blew him off. This one night though it had come to blows, both severely inebriated after far to many down the Swan with the gang, Finn had called her out on her being distant, and being the full of love man he was, he asked what he had done. She blew at the thought of him thinking he had done anything wrong at all, and instead shouted about how she didn’t deserve everything he did for her and how she could never give what he gave. In His drunken state, Finn had understood wrong, and took her outburst as her trying to break up with him, like she did when she first got accepted to uni, and left her, or so she thought. The following morning she had found him curled up on the couch, he hadn’t left, he’d just spent the night downstairs. Through his hangover he managed to explain that he had taken what she had said the previous night the wrong way and how sorry he was to have walked out of the room like that. She had forgiven him instantly and said

“I deserved it Finn, I was being a cow.” to which he had put his arm around her and through his tears he had whispered;

“How come you think you deserve to be treated that way but feel as though you don’t deserve to be loved Rae?”

And that had been the start of her going back to therapy.

Isla whimpers slightly while Rae refastens her baby grow. Rae is still shocked at how quiet their baby is, although they both know she has a set of lungs on her, that could rival Rae’s and Chops together; she also has this quiet side to her, which she most definably gets from her dad. Once her nappy is changed and she’s all correct in her baby grow again, Rae lifts her off the changing station to cradle her in her arms, while making her way over to the rocking chair. Sitting down she starts to undo her top ready to feed. Considering she had found her pregnancy hard, and she had struggled to cope with the impending change of becoming a mum, Rae is extremely proud with how she has been coping. During the first few weeks she didn’t really feel comfortable with any of it unless Finn was around, little did she know that Finn felt the same; but once they had settled into a routine, she was fine and would often offer to do the night change if she was awake. She loved nothing more than their quiet mornings where either her or Finn would collect Isla and they’d have their morning cuddles in their bed. When Isla was three months, they were both happy to start putting her in the nursery of a night time, which she had happily adjusted to, and while Chop might have made a comment about Rae and Finn having some adult time, they hadn’t really, they much preferred cuddling up together and listening to their baby girls soft snores through the baby walker.

The gang hadn’t really changed over the years; they still met on a Friday night down the Swan, although now with Isla being here, both her and Finn hadn’t been along in a few weeks. They also met for dinner once a week, which now usually meant a takeaway around their house, not that the gang minded whatsoever. Even though Chop would moan about missing out on his usual pint down the Swan, the second he’d have Isla in his arms, he’d change completely. He was proper smitten. Isla was always going to have a home away from home with Chop, Izzy and their two kids. Archie and Chloe were both smitten too; Archie now being able to call himself uncle Archie and Chloe buying matching clothes for her and Isla to wear. As she sits on Finn’s old rocking chair, handed down from his Nan, rocking Isla as she feeds, she thinks about the future, and even if her and Finn were to not have another baby, Isla will be surrounded by love from the gang and Izzy and Chops two.

****

When he wakes, he finds himself alone in their bed, wrapped tightly in their duvet. Their bedroom is dimly lit, by the light from their landing flooding in from around the doorframe, but yet it still causes him to squint. His head is bouncing, more than it did the morning following the night the gang had gone to wet Isla’s head. In his 27 years he has never experienced a hangover like it, however he would take that hangover over the Flu he’s currently experiencing. Rae had been so good, she had hardly let him lift a finger around the house, and he’s not shy to admit that he loves the extra snuggles he’s be claiming. He looks to his right and sure enough on his bedside table, Rae had left him a glass of water and a pack of pain killers, he sits up before popping two into his mouth and taking a drink of his water. While he sits there, he thinks back over the last four months and how brilliantly Rae had coped with becoming a mum. He knew she would make the best mum but she had such a hard pregnancy and had serious doubts. He thinks back to his daughter’s birth and thinks about the tears he cried during and after. He has always been proud of Rae but the way she coped throughout labour and everything after, sets him with this pride he can feel in his chest.

Finn had been so overcome with emotion from his daughter’s birth, he’d found himself crying into his dads arms on night. Finn had found himself calling his dad two days after Isla’s birth. Both Isla and Rae were sleeping, after Rae had had a salt bath, Finn had been cuddle into Rae’s side but had got up when he heard a noise coming from Isla’s moses basket. After checking her over, he realised that she was just whimpering and was in fact fine, but for some reason he was so over come with emotion, he found himself in floods of tears and swiftly reached for their house phone to call his Dad. His dad had been round within fifth-teen minutes, and Finn had cried and explained he was just so happy, and exhausted. Once he had calmed down, his dad had fixed them with a bru, and Finn had opened up more at what he thinks had caused his emotional outpour. Earlier that morning, while him and Rae were trying to get ready to make their way down to their local shop for the essentials such as milk and bread, Rae had whispered to him that she had finally found a name they would both be happy with. Isla; after his Nan of course. He’d smiled and asked if she was sure, before explaining how perfect it was and how much he loved her. And ever since that moment, he hadn’t been able to stop thinking about his Nan, he wondered if she would be proud of him, how she would feel about being a great Nan and how smitten she would be with Isla. Throughout their day Rae had picked up something had been bothering him, but he thought he was doing fine, until later that afternoon when he needed his dad and to talk about his Nan. Once his dad and his self had finished their bru’s, Isla started crying, which Finn jumped up to collect her. Once he was back in the lounge, his dad sent Finn on his way for a well-earned nap with Rae while he cared for Isla. Finn and Rae had woken two hours later to find Gary, rocking Isla off to sleep while singing her a lullaby of none other than Status Quo.

From the baby monitor on his bed side table, he can hear the rocking of the rocking chair and Rae humming. Feeling as though he has missed out of so much already this week while being sick, Finn makes his way to the nursery, where sure enough, he finds Rae, feeding their little bundle of joy. As he makes his way over to them, Rae catches his eye and smiles at him, before he bends to kiss her forehead, and stroke Isla’s. He makes his way to the small couch opposite the rocking chair and perches on it.

“How you feeling? You’ve been asleep for a good few hours.” Rae whispers softly not wanting to disturb Isla’s sleep. Finn rubs his eye before replying

“A lot better than I have been. Missed my girls too much so I had to wake up and find you both.”

Rae hums along, before gathering herself and Isla and making her way over to slot next to Finn. She sits down before motioning to Finn to place his head on her lap, which he does straight away. With her free hand she combs her fingers through his hair, which has him moaning out with satisfaction before she says; “we’ve missed you too. Its awful seeing you so ill. But it does give me chance to look after you, like you always look after me.”

The three of them sit in silence, cuddled up on Isla’s couch, for half an hour, all enjoying spending time with each other through the stolen hours of the early morning, before Finn sneezes. The sneeze causes him to cough, and cough and cough, until he’s sat up with Rae rubbing his back. Once his cough eases, she exclaims; “back to bed now Finn, come on.” He nods, and stands before collecting Isla’s moses basket and asking “please?” with his puppy dog eyes, he knows Rae can never resist. she tuts out a giggle before rolling her eyes and saying “Go on, Just this once.” before following Finn out of the Nursery and back into their bedroom.

Finn sets up Isla’s moses basket before settling into bed waiting for Rae. He sits and watches as Rae settles their daughter into the basket, closes her top, and climbs into bed next to Finn. She laughs when Finn makes a joke about her covering her breast back up, and him missing the girls, before pulling him down and cuddling him into his chest. He yawns once more before kissing the only place he can reach, her neck, while being cuddled into her chest, before speaking softly in a sleep drunken haze; “I love you Rae. You and Isla, I love you both so much.” He feels Rae kiss his head once before he’s carried off into the deepest slumber.

This was supposed to be a short little nothing, but it got away from me. Now it is a long lot of nothing. 5,000 + words. Sorry.

Summary: Rae and Finn have broken up, but their child keeps them connected.

Dear Gallagher,

Happy Christmas buddy! Saw these at the shop and thought of you. Reminds me of all our trips to the park. Couldn’t help but get ‘em.

I know mum’ll tell you “only one”, but don’t you worry. When she thinks no ones looking, she’ll sneak into the lounge to watch Top of the Pops, so just snag another one then! Trust me, she’ll never know. Used to do it all the time with her choc chip cookies, and she never had a clue! ;)

Hope you get the wishbone at dinner! I know what I’d wish for.

Miss ya, Dad x

Rae shakes her head with a fond laugh, as she reads over the note for the third time. She glances at the box of biscuits shaped like squirrels, and smooths a hand over Gallagher’s head.

“Lamb and gravy. Your favourite, innit? Finn still remembers.”

The pup sits up at the familiar name. Quirking his head to the side, his tail starting to wag excitedly. Rae can’t help but grin.

“Don’t get any ideas about an extra treat now,” she warns before feeding him one of the biscuits. “Always knew when your dad did it. Thought he was so clever, the dickhead.”

And then she can’t help her small sad smile, or the tears welling up in her eyes.

“Yeah, Da’ I’ll be there. 7 o'clock sharp. Got it.” Finn cradles the phone between his ear and shoulder, reaching for the pile of post that’s spread on the welcome mat below the slot. “Look, the longer you take to tell me to be there on time, the later I’ll be!”

As his dad goes through the plans for Finn’s birthday weekend for the umpteenth time, he shuffles through the mail. Bill. Bill. A flyer for the garden centre. Fairy lights are on offer for the post holiday season. Bill. A yellow envelope. No stamp, no return address. Finn turns it over and guffaws when he sees the seal covered in a single muddy paw print.

“What’s so funny?”

“Nothing Da’. Look I gotta go, see you in a bit alrigh’?”

“Don’t be late!”

As soon as he’s hung up Finn rips open the envelope, hands shaking slightly from happy anticipation. His eyes move across the front of a card, and he throws his head back to laugh, harder than he’s laughed in the last three months.

“YOU’RE MY FAVOURITE FACE TO LICK WHEN I’VE FINISHED CLEANING MY BOLLOCKS” is the message he’s greeted with, and if it wasn’t so funny he’d be sad that only she could make him this happy.

The inside is much sweeter, a simple “Happy Birthday to my Doggy Daddy!” Below that, Finn can tell Rae has used her wrong hand to messily scrawl “ur the most PAWesome dad eva xx” before forcing Gallagher to press another muddy paw down as a signature.

Inside the envelope he finds a photo. Gallagher in front of the Christmas tree, tongue out, teeth bared in what can only be classified as a smile. A tartan gift bow is stuck precariously to his ear, and the tin of mostly eaten squirrel biscuits sits next to him.

Half in shot is Rae, hand out as if to adjust the bow. She’s beautiful as always, and Finn wonders who snapped the photo. Hopes it was Linda or Karim, maybe even Chloe; just no one new.

He examines the rest of the scene, trying to commit it to memory. Maybe if he can memorize it, it’ll be easier to step into it and pretend that he had been there Christmas Day, instead of sat on his dad’s lounge over a turkey sarnie. He’s able to make out a few of the baubles hanging on the tree in the background, and he feels his chest fill with a dangerous cocktail of hurt and hope when he spies the glossy black of the set of decorations they’d bought together; tiny vinyl records, engraved with “R&F”. Finn traces his thumb over the image, over the part of Rae that’s visible. Scoffs at himself for thinking that’s exactly what he has left of her: just small parts. Carbon copies of what life was before.

Moving into the bedroom, he wedges the photo into the frame of his mirror, right below the one of them the day they moved into that flat. Their flat. Chop had captured the moment perfectly. Rae is scowling at Finn as he holds up the Babylon Zoo record, about to add it to the shelf of vinyl in their new music room. He can still remember how she’d tried to snatch it from his hand, threatening to use it as a pot coaster. They’d play wrestled until they were both on the carpet and the grappling had shifted to tangled limbs and mingled lips, when Chop had yelled “I’m still ‘ere you dirty fuckers!” before leaving the room. It’s one of his favourite memories and, when he’d moved out, the photo was one of his top priorities to pack.

Finn sighs and lays back on the bed. He misses that home, that room, that girl. If things hadn’t gone to shit Rae would be coming with him to his Dad’s; Gallagher in the back seat, head stuck out the window panting into the wind. He can imagine it perfectly and it makes his eyes sting. He almost lets the hurt take over, until he remembers that she’d put up their baubles, so Finn lets the hope win out instead.

Finn rearranges the two gift boxes on the passenger seat, repeating to himself that the purple one is full of Rae’s favourite chocolate, while the black one has liver treats for Gallagher. He’s antsy about this whole thing already, doesn’t need the added worry of poisoning the both of them with a nerve induced mix-up. He was annoyed at the shops for only carrying the cheesy love-heart shaped carriers, knowing Rae would find it campy, but it’s Valentine’s Day after all.

He’s sitting in his car, outside the building that houses the magazine Rae works for. Glancing at his watch, he’s timed it perfectly; knows from experience that in a couple minutes Rae will walk out with her coworker Rob. Finn’s legs bounce nervously, his knees hitting the steering wheel that he’s gripping firmly. This could go wrong in so many ways, but he’s been holding on to the baubles on the tree for the last fortnight; the tinsel-shiny prospect of them keeping him afloat, and he’s sure deep down that she’s thinking of him too. When Finn sees Rob emerge from the front doors alone, his brow furrows and he jumps out quickly and jogs to meet him at the entrance.

“Finn!” Rob is cheerful, but obviously surprised to see him, and Finn wonders how much he knows about the last few months. “What’re you doing here?”

“Alrigh’, Rob?” Finn tucks his hands in his jeans, shoulders bobbing up and down in greeting. “Just wanted to catch Rae. Is she running late?”

Rob’s face morphs into a mask of confusion and the tide of Finn’s nerves threatens to drown every one of his internal organs. His pockets feel too tight for the fists his hands have formed.

“No. I mean, she left about an hour ago. Thought she was meeting you?”

Right, he doesn’t know anything about the break up then. Finn is baffled into silence, unsure of how much to say, and the air grows heavy with awkwardness.

Rob clears his throat and continues, “Outfit she had on, we all figured she had a hot date or summat!” Rob chuckles, clearly hoping his quip would lighten the mood, but all it does is snap the already too-taut string holding Finn together.

Finn’s not sure what his face looks like – he’s feeling too many things at once: hurt, disappointment, jealousy – but it’s definitely not the neutral expression he’s aiming for based on Rob’s wide eyes and the concerned step he takes towards him.

“Is everything alright, mate?” Rob’s voice is worried, and now Finn’s angry at himself for putting them both in this uncomfortable situation.

“Yeah, ‘course. Must have just gotten our wires crossed. Thanks.” Finn hurries out his explanation, already turning back towards his car to escape this whole embarrassing exchange. Thanks all that is holy that he had left the stupid gifts in the car. Didn’t need them there to decorate his humiliation.

“Do you want me to give her a message?” Rob yells after him.

Finn immediately pivots mid step to stumble over a “NO! No, that’s alrigh’ mate. Don’t worry about it. I’ll talk to her me'self!” After returning Rob’s unsure nod, Finn fights the urge to run back to his car. Instead he measures his steps, trying to appear calm and unaffected; the complete opposite of how he actually feels.

*

Finn had driven blindly, leaving his hands and feet to navigate, as his mind was too wrapped up in imagining Rae dressed up and sat across from some wanker who probably didn’t know how much she hated going out on Valentine’s. His heart is pounding and all the blood in his body must have found it’s way into his head, because he feels like he’s about to erupt.

He’s not surprised when he looks up from where he’s parked to see he’s outside her flat. Knows he shouldn’t be there, but she’s on a bloody date and Rae being with anyone else is so wrong that he needs some familiarity. He can tell from the street that her lights are out and he lets go of the tiny hope he’d held on to that Rob had been wrong.

He still has his set of keys. Rae never asked for them, and Finn couldn’t bring himself to loose them from the ring. It was like he needed the heft of them in his palm and pockets; a physical reminder of their commitment that he could keep with him at all times without seeming mad. As he uses them to unlock the main door, he finds himself bitterly doubting that commitment. He knows it’s not fair, they’ve been broken up for months, but he hasn’t even looked twice at another girl and he can’t believe she’s moved on this fast.

Finn takes the two flights quickly, eyes down, silently hoping none of the neighbours spot him. The last thing he needs is Ms. Dewhurst telling Rae that “the boy with the too long fringe who used to live here was lurking about”. Once he reaches the door, he knocks tentatively just in case Rae really is home, maybe listening to a record in the dark like she used to do. Finn cringes at the thought of startling her as he essentially brakes in, but his relief of her being there would be greater than the embarrassment. However the only sound from inside the flat is the panting breaths and scurrying paws of Gallagher. The pup’s clawing lifts his spirits and Finn unlocks the door to greet him. Gallagher barks before jumping to his hind legs, front paws landing on Finn’s hips. Finn swears he can see the recognition in the dog’s wild eyes, and it hits him then that Rae’s not the only one he’s been missing terribly.

“Hiya, buddy!” Finn drops down to his knees to give him a proper petting, scratching at Gallagher’s neck while he licks at any part of Finn he can get at. “Just finished cleaning your bollocks?” Finn chuckles, scrunching his eyes shut as Gallagher’s tongue takes a swipe at them.

Gallagher is frantic, breath panting, and he jumps up again knocking Finn on his back so he can climb onto his stomach and continue his assault. “Alrigh’, alrigh’, I’ve missed you too!” Finn pushes him away from his face and Gallagher hops off him, settling instead on Finn’s side, head resting on his chest. The two boys remain sprawled on the floor, catching their breath. Finn strokes the top of his head gently, as he stares up at the ceiling.

“So your mum’s on a date, huh? Have you seen him? What’s he like?” Finn lifts his head to look Gallagher in the face, and the pup tilts his head to the side like he’s really contemplating a response. Finn rubs one of his floppy ears between his fingers. “Never mind, don’t answer that. Don’t wanna know nothing about the tosser. Hope they’re having a shit time. Hope the Spice Girls come on in the car and the twat knows all the words.” Gallagher lets out a low growl and Finn laughs. “Glad you still agree.”

They lay in content silence for another 10 minutes until Finn figures he should go before Rae comes home to find him lying on her rug. “I gotta get going, mate. But do me a favour and attack his leg or summat, alrigh’? I know we sent you to obedience school and all that, but I won’t be bothered if you wee on his trousers.”

Gallagher licks at his face again, and Finn suddenly feels like crying. “Not sure when I’ll get to see you again, Gall’. Thought maybe I’d be coming 'round more after tonight, but guess I was stupid to think Rae was missing me 'ey? She was always the stronger one.” Gallagher gives him a pitiful whine and Finn smiles dolefully. “I know, mate. I’m sad too.”

“Thanks for taking me out. Even if it was on Valentine’s.” Rae playfully rolls her eyes and holds the door to her building open for him.

“I knew you’d complain about that! But of course I’m gonna take out my favourite girl on this day of love!”

“You’re ridiculous.” Rae shakes her head with a small laugh as she leads the way up to her flat. “But really, I appreciate it. Glad you’re spending the night too. It’ll be nice to have someone besides Gallagher around.”

“Yeah? So I’m the only bloke who’s lucky enough to have been invited?”

Rae scoffs. “Please, Arch. You know I haven’t even thought about another guy since…you know.”

“Yeah, I know.” Archie gives her a soft smile. “I’m sorry about that by the way. I know today didn’t go how you thought.”

Rae just shrugs. She had gotten all dolled up and left work early, hoping to “catch” Finn at home while she was dropping off a card from Gallagher. But he wasn’t in. She sat on his front step for a good ten minutes before deciding she didn’t want to be that pathetic, and called Archie to pick her up.

“Yeah well, it was daft of me to think Finn Nelson would just be sat at home on Valentine’s Day. I guess I just hoped…I don’t know what I hoped.”

They’ve reached her floor now and Archie clocks the heart shaped box propped up against her door. “Maybe you were hoping for something like that?”

Rae blushes when she sees what he’s pointing at, and her pulse quickens and she bends to pick it up. She bites her lip to stop her manic smile as she recognizes the scribble she’s long since memorized from countless mix tapes. She presses the black box to her chest as she rips open the card.

Dear Gallagher,

Don’t think I forgot about you! You know you’ll always be my second love, even though you probably met some lucky lass down the pet shop. That reminds me, we need to get ya fixed. Don’t need to be a grand dad any time soon.

Dad x

P.S. Soz if the liver breath cock-blocks ya.

“It’s from Finn right? What does it say?” Archie asks excitedly.

Rae tips her head back and releases a short wry laugh. “It’s not for me.” She shoves the box into Archie’s arms before unlocking the door and going straight to the fridge for a  beer.

“He always sends Gallagher stuff like this?” Archie leans a hip on her kitchen counter, frowning down at the note.

“Yeah. He loves this little guy.” Rae is on her knees, scratching at Gallagher who has come to greet them in the kitchen. “At least he still loves one of us, hey Gall’?”

“Rae,” Archie starts.

“No Arch, it’s fine.”

Rae waves him off but Archie hears the wobble of her voice, and even though her face is turned away, he knows it’s probably wet with tears. Archie throws the box and note on the counter and sits down on the floor next to her.

“Move over, Gall’.” Archie pulls Rae towards him, wrapping his arms around her shoulders which are now shaking as she sobs. Rae tucks her face into his neck, and Archie’s shirt is instantly wet.

“I’ve been so stupid, Arch.”

“You haven’t.”

“He’s probably on a date with some beautiful girl who likes shit music but can get away with it 'cause of her stupid pretty face.”

“We don’t know where he was, Rae.”

“I’m an idiot.”

“No, you’re just… in love.”

“Same shit. How stupid am I to think he still feels the same? I must be mad to hope that I could keep someone like Finn. That stuff doesn’t happen to girls like me. I don’t get the happy ending. I get crying on the kitchen floor.”

“Rae, this is not what your life is going to be forever. It’s hard right now, but you’re strong. You’ll get past this.”

“I don’t want to get past him, Archie. I want him back.”

“I know.”

They’re quiet for a long time, only the sounds of Gallagher’s soft whines and Rae’s sniffles filling the room. Finally Rae sits up, wiping her face with the sleeve of her coat.

“Sorry.”

“Hey, don’t ever apologize for snotting on me. That’s what best mates are for.” Archie nudges her knee with his.

“Would my best mate be willing to help me break into Finn’s and get that card back?”

“You and I would make the worst burglars. Can you imagine? But maybe if we get arrested I would finally get some action in jail.”

“Didn’t know convicts were your type.”

“Rae, it’s Valentine’s day and the closest to intimacy I’m gonna get is your dog slobbering on my leg. Don’t think I can afford to be choosy.”

Rae scoffs. “Yeah well, welcome to my world.”

They share a laugh before Archie asks, “You alright?”

“No, but I’m used to not being alright.” Rae sighs before reaching for the box of treats and retrieving one for Gallagher. “C'mere, boy. Enjoy this token of a man’s affection. You’re the only one here getting it.”

“So how was yesterday? Did'ya get the ‘V’ in Valentines?” Chop laughs at his own joke before scooping another heap of curry into his mouth. He’d come round to Finn’s for a take away after their shift at the garage.

Finn scowls and takes a swig of beer. “No. It was crap.”

After leaving Rae’s he’d stopped at the off licence for a 12 pack before heading home, only to find a red envelope on his welcome mat. When he saw it was stamped with another messy paw print, he’d chucked it straight in the bin. After beer number two he’d taken Rae’s keys off his chain and thrown them on top of that. Beer number four had him tying up the bag roughly and hauling it to the garden because he couldn’t stop thinking about them sitting there. And once half the pack was gone he’d been drunk enough to forget about everything except the melancholy lyrics of Morrissey.

Chop’s brows meet in the middle at Finn’s rough reply. “Yeah, who’s that from then? Secret admirer?” He nods his head at the purple box lying on the coffee table between them.

Finn groans and rubs at his face. He’d forgotten about the stupid chocolates he bought Rae. “They’re your pudding. Have at 'em.” Finn stands to walk to the kitchen for another drink.

“Hey, aren’t these Raemundo’s favourites?” Chop yells from the lounge and Finn has to hold the cold can to his forehead to calm him down.

“Leave it alone and eat the damn chocolate Chop,” Finn growls back. He cracks the beer, awaiting Chop’s inevitable piss take but he’s quiet. Too quiet. Finn turns to see him frowning down at the box, and he realizes Chop’s reading the other part he’d forgotten: the foolish note he’d written.

“Shit.” Is all Chop says once he’s done, flicking the card towards Finn.

“Yeah. It is shit.” Finn replies, picking it up to read it over.

Rae, “But tonight I miss my girl, mister tonight I miss my home.” I know you hate today, but love makes you mean all those crazy things.

Finn x

P.S. Sorry this is so cringe. At least it’s not Backstreet Boys lyrics right? Not that I know any…but you probably would ;)

Chop shakes his head. “I ain’t no Casanova, but even I know that’s romantic. Fuck, I’m tempted to date ya! Fucking Springsteen? Why didn’t you give it to her?”

“'Cause she was out with someone else.” Finn lets out a humourless laugh, tossing the card back on the table. “I was ready to move back in and she was on a date with some other bloke.”

“No she wasn’t,” Chop says in between bites.

“What?”

“Well, she was with another bloke, but since Archie fancies lads I don’t think he’s much of a threat.”

“What are you on about?”

“Izzy told me she was having a catch up with Archer but he dipped out half way because he had to meet Rae.” Chop says it with a shrug as he continues to pick through the chocolates. He’s so casual, as if this info doesn’t alter Finn’s whole life.

Finn stares incredulously at him, trying to comprehend the gift of information he’s just been handed. Chop looks up and gives him a confused look before lifting the box of chocolate in offering. Finn shakes his head and scrambles for the back door, nearly tripping on the bin bag he’d thrown out carelessly the night before. He rifles through it’s contents to find the now damp and slightly sticky envelope.

Inside is a white card sporting a drawing of a derpy dog that looks just like Gallagher. Underneath it says “I’ll sniff your arse, if you sniff mine” in loopy font and it makes Finn smile for the first time in the last 24 hours. Inside is Rae’s familiar bubbly printing that he’s learned from grocery lists and sneaky notes in his packed lunches.

I told Gall’ this was an inappropriate card to get his dad, but he insisted. Though, I can understand the attraction to your arse :p

We both know this day is for mainstream people who listen to boy bands, but it never hurts to remind someone you’re thinking of them.

Happy Valentine’s Day, Finnley.

We miss you. Love, Rae and Gallagher xx

Finn reads the message six times over searching for any double meanings or misinterpretations, but all he registers is “miss you” and “love”, and maybe the comment about his arse. He hates that the card (that he’s definitely keeping forever) now smells of the mushy peas he’d thrown out after his fish and chips the previous day, but that doesn’t matter. None of it matters because Rae wasn’t on a date and she misses him and maybe loves him and still thinks “the curve of his arse is the solution to every impossible maths problem in the known universe.” (She’d drunkenly confessed this to him after two months of dating, which also happened to be the same night Finn knew he was in love). So he shovels through the rest of the bag’s contents to find his set of keys.

Rae trudges slowly up to her flat. It’s been a long day, after an even longer night. All she wants to do is get inside, put on a record, take off her bra, and cuddle with Gallagher.

Her and Archie had stayed up watching films and dunking Hobnobs into hot toddies; the perfect night for two sad and singles. One of the comedies they’d put in turned out to be a romantic one, and Rae had another cry before they’d fallen asleep in front of the tv. She woke up cold and alone in the middle of the night to find Archie snuggled up to Gallagher at the other end of the couch. Story of my life. Every guy prefers the bloody dog, she had thought but was secretly glad they hadn’t moved to the bedroom. Best mate or not, Rae wasn’t ready for another man in her bed.

Work was no better. Rob had acted strange around her but when she asked if anything happened he shook his head and asked about her night, which she promptly lied about. She tried to focus on the article she was writing, but it seemed like every new band she researched only served to remind her of one person.

“Rae dear, you’re home late.”

Rae looks up to find her elderly neighbour at the stop of the staircase. “Hiya Ms. D. Been a long one. Y'alright?”

“Lovely, dear, just lovely.” Ms. Dewhurst replies airily.

“That makes one of us,” Rae mumbles under her breath as she takes the remaining steps.

“Think your day is about to get a bit better, love.” Ms. D pats her shoulder, a broad, knowing smile on her face before turning to her door.

Rae watches her go, confused by the cryptic message until her eyes fall on a rectangle box sat by her door. Now she is even more confused. She bends to pick it up, a mix of déjà vu and nerves filling her. She has a curious prickle on the back of her neck, like she’s being watched, and turns to look behind her; swears she sees Ms. D vanish from behind the peephole. Rae decides she doesn’t need an audience to witness whatever this Pandora’s box contains and hurries to unlock the door.

As soon as she’s inside, Rae leans against the door and takes a deep breath. She had gotten prematurely excited over the box from last night, so she tries to reason with herself that this delivery could be anything. Perhaps the candles she’d ordered, or the adorable flannel harness she’d bought online for Gallagher because it reminded her of one of Finn’s coats, maybe even the vibrator Chloe had convinced her to invest in the other week. Any of those seemed much more likely than what her heart was holding hope for.

That optimistic heart jumps into her throat when she opens the card to find the familiar perfectly untidy printing.

Rae, “But tonight I miss my girl, mister tonight I miss my home.” I know you hate today yesterday, but love makes you mean all those crazy things.

Love, Finn xxx

P.S. Sorry this is so cringe. At least it’s not Backstreet Boys lyrics right? Not that I know any…but you probably would ;)

P.P.S. Figured if I waited a day, you’d like this more. Bonus: no heart shaped box.

P.P.P.S. I got your card. I’m thinking of you too. I miss you too. And your arse is also great.

Rae’s smile has broadened with every word and her knees suddenly can’t handle the weight of that blossoming hope, so she slides down the door to fall on her “great” arse. Gallagher comes running to lick at her and Rae lets herself dissolve into a fit of giggles.

“Maybe he still loves us both, Gall’.”

Gallagher bounds down the hall, bumping in to balloons that scatter the floor. He barks at the offending objects attempting to pounce on them, but only manages to kick them away so he chases them into the kitchen instead. A stray chew left by his food bowl distracts him on his quest, and he settles at  Chop’s feet to gnaw on it.

“Can’t believe you threw your dog a birthday party!” Chop shakes his head and playfully kicks at Gallagher’s rump.

Izzy scowls at him and bends to stroke Gallagher fondly. “He’s part of the family! Besides he’s sooooo cute!”

“He’s a dog! Doesn’t know how old he fuckin’ is!”

“Didn’t stop you from drinking the beer or eating the food, did it?” Chloe shoots back. “Besides it’s just an excuse for us to get together. We haven’t all hung out since…you know.”

Rae clears her throat before she smirks at Chop and continues to plate cupcakes. “Let me guess, you’d prefer a 'sexy’ party?”

“Raemundo, you know me too well. Now, what have we ‘ere?” Chop reaches over and grabs a cake off the tray, already unwrapping it.

“Think you’ll like it. It’s has cream cheese and peanut butter icing.” Rae gestures for him to take a bite, which he does. A big one. “Topped with lamb treats. They’re pupcakes for Gallagher.”

Chop’s eyes bug out and he spits his mouthful into the sink. The gang erupts into laughter, and then Chop is chasing Rae through the lounge trying to smear the icing on his face and hands onto her. He manages to tackle her down on the sofa, Rae squealing through her laughter for him to “stop, stop, get off”. Gallagher barks at Chop clearly defensive over Rae, and starts to pull at the cuff of his jeans, growling low. Chop rolls off Rae, his hands up in surrender.

“Oi mate, it’s jus’ me, your favourite pork-Chop!” Chop bends to pat him and Gallagher’s act of protection drops as soon as he sniffs the peanut butter on him. Instead he jumps up onto his lap, excitedly licking off all the icing from Chop’s face. “Christ, it’s like the first time I snogged Izzy!!”

“You horrible boy!” Izzy complains, smacking Chop. “You get ‘em, Gall’! Bite his face off!”

“Alrigh’, there will be no biting of anyone’s face! Even his ugly mug,” Finn laughs, walking into the room with Archie. “C’mere Gall’, time for presents.” Gallagher runs towards him, sniffing at the boxes and barking. “Easy now, sit!” Gallagher sits up, tail wagging happily. “Good boy!”

“Here, let Uncle Archie read you the card.” Archie plucks the envelope off a random box, and starts to read.

“Dear Gallagher,

Happy First Birthday! Seems like just yesterday we spotted you at the shelter. Always thought you were cute, but when we drove you home and you started howling along to Oasis, we knew you were the perfect fit.

Thanks for ending the debate over which brother is better, because now you’re our favourite Gallagher.

Love, Mum and Dad x”

The gang exchange surprised looks before they all turn to Rae and Finn, who are too busy looking at each other to notice their knowing smiles.

Concept inspired by this story and my general love of dogs. Apologies for it being lame, cheesy, and late. Thank you for reading!

This is a band AU that’s been in the works for years, literally. I could never let it go, and I’m thrilled that it is finally seeing the light of day. My endless thanks to @madfatty, who I rely on a frankly shocking amount. She listens to me whine, makes the bust suggestions, names all the things, and gives the best compliments a girl could ask for. When she read this, she literally said, “I’m never talking to you again.” and if that’s not true friendship, I don’t know what is.

Tags and a little author’s note at the bottom. 

Nights When They Play

He’s expansive tonight, stage Finn. She watches him from her seat at the bar, shaking her head as he claps a tall guy on the shoulder and squeezes, wearing his familiar manic energy like a costume. Finn elbows the guy in the ribs, and the whole group laughs riotously. Rae rolls her eyes.

She hates when he gets like this. She much prefers regular Finn, easy Finn, Finn of the haughty opinions and careless banter, Finn whose laughter always sounds like a surprise. She even prefers grumpy, sullen Finn, who scowls into his pint and can’t be drawn out with anything less than the boldest of taunts. Performer Finn just makes her feel small.

“Nelson’s on fire tonight.” Manny laughs, leaning over the bar in front of her. She shoots him a brief, tight smile, and they both return to watching Finn as he shakes a rail-thin girl jokingly and all her friends giggle in envy.

“I hate when he gets like this.” Rae says, because it feels good to talk about him behind his back, because she owes this Finn no loyalty.

“Seems obnoxious.” Rae swivels on her stool to face him, turning her back on Finn Nelson. Manny shrugs and pulls a pint glass from under the bar. “But I can see why he’s got so many fans, I guess. He seems to be charming them pretty well. Another one, babes?”

“It’s my round, so for the whole table, if you don’t mind.” Rae sighs, spinning to look at Finn again. No less than three girls are touching him in some capacity; she rolls her eyes again and looks away. “Oh, the fans. All the many, many female fans.”