"You—fuck—sure you w-wanna do this out here?" You just barely managed to stutter out the remembrance that you were out in public, suddenly making you shy.

And Sam couldn't help but laugh, hardly even throwing a look over his shoulder as he pressed himself even closer to you, one of his hands starting to travel down from your tit to begin slipping your already short dress further up your thighs. "You're asking that now?" He breathlessly laughed, each word punctuated with a kiss. "Don't think anyone will really care what we're doing, babe—" A shuddery moan left the blonde when he felt just how damp your underwear was, how your slick was already beginning to leak onto the bar stool you sat on. "—Damn, you're this wet from me just talkin' and playin' around with you a little?"

You bit your bottom lip when he gently began to rub over your cunt, that single digit making you noisier than ever as you grabbed onto the bar counter just to keep yourself from losing yourself completely. Although you didn't even want to begin to think about who may have been watching you—the moaning in the background slowly started to fade out as you slowly started to try and grind yourself closer to Sam's fingers, each little buck resulting in the blonde teasingly tearing his finger away from you with a cruel giggle. "Y-You—"

"I can't make it too easy~" He purred, biting onto the shell of your ear before tugging you off of the bar stool just enough to where your ass nearly hung completely off. The perfect position to better fuck his fingers into you from behind—as well as fuck you properly, should he have gained your permission as well. "I'm having too much fun with you, I don't want it to end." He added on with a pout before slipping your dress over your ass completely, a low whistle popping out of his mouth at the sight of your lingerie.

Unlike your front, there was an open back for your ass, a whispered moan escaping him as he began to unzip his pants to free his cock. "You're pretty dirty, aren't you?"

The way you immediately looked over your shoulder at him made his cock even harder, a hiss leaving his lips when he pulled his cock out to be exposed to the slightly cool air of the club before he boldly started to slowly stroke his cock to the arousing sight. "Not as dirty as you—you can't even wait to f-fuck me properly?"

"Is that permission?"

Your mouth held open for a few beats before it snapped closed with a stubborn shake of your head.

Sam's smirk grew as he forced his hand away from his cock to refocus, giving all his attention to you, slowly crouching himself down to be face-to-face with your dripping cunt. "I suppose I'll have to earn permission then by giving you the best orgasm of your life." And before you could open your mouth to retort, an embarrassingly loud moan escaped your lips when you felt the flat of the blonde's tongue lick up your pussy before tugging you closer to his mouth. You were nearly completely standing at this point, your hands now firmly pressed onto the plush bar stool seat to help keep your balance as your thighs began to shake at the pleasure.

Dirty—absolutely filthy moans left Sam's mouth as he ate you out, his index and middle finger rubbing light yet fast circles onto your clit as he drank in every drop of your essence while his free hand firmly gripped the base of his cock, anything to keep himself from cumming to the act of eating you out. Every drop of himself, he wanted to save for you.

But that was proving easier said than done.

As the sound of your moan, as well as what he was doing...was beginning to attract a small crowd of onlookers. Whistling and hooting at the public act, and further making you blush in embarrassment, an embarrassment that only seemed to make your pussy even wetter as you could feel the vibration of Sam's chuckle into your pussy. "Feelin' good, babe?" You heard him say. "I thought you didn't like being seen in public...your pussy is getting even wetter." He continued before diving back in.

When someone had come up to you, a faceless figure in your eyes, with how your brain was too busy conjuring up image after image of Sam and how he may have looked licking your cunt. A shaky moan left your lips when you felt a hand place itself on your tit; the feeling of the hand was just similar enough to how Sam's felt that you were hardly able to tell the difference. A whispered voice came up to your ear. "You mind a couple of other people touching you, pretty? How's your boyfriend feel?" The voice breathed.

You blushed at the inaccurate description of the man you just met, looking behind you before cracking open an eye.

And Sam was already looking at you, as happy as a dog who was being given all the attention in the world. "What pretty?" Sam placed a drawn-out kiss on your pussy before giving you his full attention, albeit a little unfocused, while his fingers continued to plunge in and out of you. "D-Do...oh fuck...m-mind someone else touching me?"

Only a little while of knowing him, and you were already asking permission? You were cute.

His darkened baby blue eyes flicked over to the unknown gentleman. So long as you didn't prefer his touch over his own, then he couldn't care less. You were your own person; he was just lucky enough that you felt comfortable enough to allow him to do this with you. "Don't mind at all," He smirked before he dived right towards kissing your lips, taking advantage of your already open mouth to sneak his tongue in.

Your mind was getting dizzy, the combination of embarrassment, tipsiness, and pleasure mixing into an addictive cocktail of feelings that you were far too engrossed in the moment to really focus on. All you could think about was the growing feeling of more eyes starting to watch you, how good Sam's mouth felt on yours, and how good the stranger's hand was fondling your tit while softly moaning in your ear.

You whined as the already growing knot of pleasure increased tenfold when the stranger bent down to begin sucking at your tit while fondling the other, more of your juices rushing down the blonde's hand and dripping onto the floor. "We're attracting quite a crowd," Sam said, quietly enough for you to hear as his eyes looked at the small group that was watching, masturbating to the sight. "Hopefully you'll still prefer me, though? Even after so many people are admiring you—" You shut him up with a quick peck against his lips before a drawn-out moan escaped you, a sliver of drool beginning to fall from the side of your mouth as you started to buck your hips to match Sam's pistoning fingers, chasing after your budding high.

"A-Always gonna prefer you—s-shit...!" You cried out. "Your fingers feel so good i-inside—" The rest of your words were stolen away when Sam suddenly increased the pace of his fingers, heavy globs of pre-cum dripping from his cock as your words replayed in his head, over and over and over again. He feared he was going to cum untouched at this rate, your prettiness and the way you sounded so lewd just from being fucked by his fingers all combining to make him want more and more of you...though, when he made you cockdrunk from his dick next, he wanted that to be in a more private setting.

Something that you silently wanted too, the imagination of Sam fucking you with his twitching cock, making your moans and whines rise in pitch until your moans and whines were replaced with a sudden scream, your nails threatening to tear holes into the bar stool cushion as you squirted over Sam's fingers, each continued thrust forcing more of your cum out until your juices threatened to completely drench the blonde's forearm.

And he helped you ride out your climax until the very moment you began to make sounds of overstimulation.

The gentleman who was previously tending to your breasts quietly thanked you for the opportunity before leaving without another word.

And, effectively, alone with Sam as he wasted no time cleaning you up as best as he could.

Once you were clean (with some napkins from the bar that is), he pulled your dress down back over your ass. But not before your hand grazed over his cock. "What—" You gulped. "—what about you?"

He shuddered at the feeling of your hand touching him, but he forced himself to take a single step back and put his aching dick back into his pants. "I-I'll be fine..." He said. "I don't want to make you uncom—"

You shut him up by more blatantly placing your hand against his now covered cock, pressing yourself to him on shaky legs as you wrapped your arms around him. "Let's get a hotel."

By the time the farmer came in again at noon, Haley had already rehearsed at least ten different versions of what she wanted to say. She didn’t start with any of them. Instead, when the farmer leaned against the counter and asked if Haley wanted anything from the market later, Haley let out a sharp laugh.

“Oh, so you do remember I’m here. What an honor.” Her voice dripped with the kind of sarcasm that always made the farmer pause, the kind that stung because it wasn’t entirely a joke. Haley’s arms folded across her chest, nails tapping against her elbows, her gaze steady and unyielding.

“Honestly, I should cover myself in feathers, maybe then you’d notice me.”

The farmer blinked, caught between confusion and guilt, her brow furrowed as if trying to piece together where this had come from. Haley rolled her eyes, pushing back her chair and standing in one fluid motion.

“Don’t look at me like that. I’m not being dramatic. I married you, not the damn crops. If I wanted to feel invisible, I could’ve stayed in my parents’ house and let them ignore me there.”

Her words came fast, edged with the hurt she’d been holding back all week. The silence that followed felt heavier than any storm cloud, filling the kitchen with something that demanded an answer.

Haley paced across the kitchen, her arms flaring out as though even her body couldn’t hold the frustration in.

“You know what’s funny? Everyone in town thinks you’re this perfect, hardworking saint. Always out there, tending crops, feeding animals, saving the whole valley one turnip at a time. Meanwhile, I’m in here wondering if my wife even remembers what I sound like.” Her laugh was sharp, bitter, but her eyes glistened. She jabbed a finger toward the window, where the fields stretched beyond sight. “Congratulations. You’re officially married to the dirt. Hope it keeps you warm at night.”

The farmer opened her mouth to speak, but Haley cut her off with a raised hand and a shake of her head. “No, don’t you dare tell me ‘it’s just the season’ or ‘it’ll calm down soon.’ I’ve been here through every season, remember? Winter, spring, summer, fall—I’ve memorized them all like clockwork. And you? You treat me like I’m just another part of the background. I could paint my hair green and roll around in compost and maybe, maybe you’d look up for five seconds.” She tilted her head, lips curling in a half-smirk that didn’t reach her eyes.

She crossed her arms again and leaned against the table, her voice lowering, growing steadier. “I didn’t marry you so I could be second place to a crop yield. I didn’t trade in photo shoots and the city and everything else I could’ve had just to sit here and feel like a ghost in my own home. If you want a farmhand, hire one. If you want a wife, maybe you should actually act like you have one.” The words hung in the air, sharp and daring, daring the farmer to prove her wrong.

The farmer finally pushed away from the counter, her jaw tight but her eyes soft, like she was weighing every word before it left her mouth.

“Haley,” she said slowly, “you think I don’t notice you, but I do. Every day. Even when I’m out there, I’m thinking about you. About this house, about us. I work the way I do because I want you to have more than the life you left behind. I don’t want you ever regretting choosing me.” She took a step closer, boots heavy on the floorboards, but her voice gentled. “You are not invisible. You’re the reason I’m doing all of this.”

Haley scoffed, flicking her hair over her shoulder like his explanation was nothing more than dust in the wind.

“Wow, how romantic. I’m the reason you’re married to the hoe and the watering can. Truly, I’m swooning.” Her hands flew up theatrically before she dropped them with a sigh. “You don’t get it. I didn’t marry you for the farm. I married you for you. And lately, all I get are glimpses of that woman between hauling buckets and falling into bed half-asleep.” Her eyes narrowed, the bite of her words softened only by the crack of hurt hiding underneath.

The farmer’s brows drew together as she leaned her weight against the table opposite Haley. “You think I don’t want that too? To just stop, to sit with you, to… breathe? But if I let it all go, the farm doesn’t run. And if the farm doesn’t run, then we don’t have anything. I thought you understood that when you chose to be here with me. I thought you saw that I’m trying to build something for us.” Her hand hovered on the wood, as if reaching for Haley but not daring to bridge the space just yet.

The farmer finally closed the gap, her hand rising to rest lightly against Haley’s arm before tugging her close. Haley resisted for half a heartbeat, her body still stiff with pride, but then she allowed herself to be drawn in, her cheek brushing the rough fabric of the farmer’s shirt. A kiss landed softly on her temple, warm and steady, the kind of gesture that carried more weight than any rushed excuse.

“I’m sorry,” the farmer whispered, her voice rougher now, thick with sincerity. “You’re not second to anything out there. You’re the reason I wake up every morning and push myself until there’s nothing left. You are my home, Haley. You’re what makes all of it matter.”

For a moment Haley stood very still, her breath caught somewhere between indignation and relief. Slowly, she let her hands slide around the farmer’s waist, resting against her back.

“You always know how to ruin a perfectly good rant,” she muttered, though the words were softened by the way she leaned into her wife’s chest. Her sass had dulled to embers, still glowing but not burning as hot, and beneath it was the tender truth she couldn’t deny. Giving in felt less like surrender and more like choosing, like remembering what she wanted most in the first place.

The farmer pulled back just enough to look at her, brushing a strand of blonde hair from her face with careful fingers. “Let me shower,” she said, a small smile tugging at her lips. “Then the rest of the day is yours. Whatever you want to do, we’ll do it.”

Haley searched her eyes, waiting for some crack of insincerity, but found none. Her expression softened fully then, her smile small but real. “I don’t care what we do,” she said quietly. “I just want to be with you.” The words landed between them like a vow, simple and unadorned, and for once Haley didn’t try to cover them with sarcasm.

Abigail:

Outside, snow was falling, effectively turning Pelican Town into a winter wonderland. Quiet music played in the background, barely hiding the squeeking metal of David's hamster wheel. Abigail was sat in the floor, controller in hand as she focused on the tv, still trying to beat Journey of the Prairie King. You were sat beside her with your own controller, trying to help her out. So far, it wasn't going to plan and as you played your sixth round, you were beginning to think that the game would never be beat. Abigail groaned in frustration as her character died once more, leaving you to fend for yourself.

"This is impossible! I hate this game.. how on earth is anyone supposed to beat this?!" You couldn't help but smile, biting back the laugh that threatened to escape you, glancing over to the purple haired girl. Her face was scrunched up in annoyance, eyes set on the pixelated screen. The sound of your character dying brought your attention back to the screen, making you sigh.

"One more round? I have a good feeling about this one." Abigail's eyes were bright, spirit somehow lifted once more as she gripped her controller, already starting up a new round.

"You've said that before every round... you know that, right?"

"Well, this time I mean it." She motioned to the tv, where the level was starting. "Come on!"

With two lives down and tensions heightening, you and Abigail played better than you had all morning, nearing the end of the game.

“Almost.... we're nearly there..."

A beat of silence seemed to consume the room as the level ended, congratulating the two of you for beating it. You and Abigail turned to each other, slow smiles growing on your faces before Abigail was jumping up, throwing her controller aside as she cheered, practically running around her room in excitement. "Finally!!!!"

You laughed, watching her from the floor as she jumped up and down, suddenly stopping and turning to you as if just now remembering you were here.

"Y/n!!! Thank you!!" She rushed to you, throwing herself on you in a hug, nearly knocking you back. "I cannot tell you how happy I am to finally beat that stupid game!" She reared back, excitement taking over as she grabbed your face, slamming her lips down onto your own. You felt yourself freeze, unable to react. Abigail pulled back, shock and panic on her own face as she realized what she had done.

"Oh Yoba.." She moved away from you, still kneeling in front of you as she hid her face into her hands. "Y/n, I am so, so, so, so sorry!! I don't know what came over me!" You blinked, laughing slightly as you reached for her wrists, revealing the deep blush on her cheeks. She kept her eyes closed tightly, apologies still spewing from her lips as you pulled her closer. It wasn't until your lips met hers that she stopped apologizing, immediately kissing you back.

When she pulled away, a triumphant smile on her face as she said, "I think this is turning out to be the best day of my life." You couldn't help but laugh and say, "Why? Because you beat the game or because we kissed?" She gave you a look, leaning in again to kiss you, hovering over your lips for a moment. "Both, duh." Before you could laugh, her lips met yours once more in a kiss that was far from the last you'd share.

Emily:

The scent of Sweet Pea's and an underlying hint of rain greeted you as you walked out of the Mines. Your backpack was heavy, weighing you down slightly as you walked through the mountains. Your muscles were aching and a cut on your thigh was bleeding a bit too heavily, running down your leg and ruining your sock. Still, you walked with a smile on your face, finding it hard for anything to dampen your mood

You had been down in the Mines all day, on the hunt for a Ruby. Emily had mentioned wanting one the other night and that was enough to send you down in search of one. It was growing late into the evening, the hot summer temperatures dropping, an almost cold breeze blowing through the trees in anticipation of the distant storm. The sky was growing dark, deep purple clouds blowing in, slowly overtaking the pink and orange hues of the sunset. You could hear the frogs croaking in the lake as you passed, could smell the faint smoke of Sebastian's cigarette as he crouched down near the water.

You waved to him as you passed, not bothering to stop for a chat as you made your way down to the town, excited to see the blue haired girl that had caught your attention from the very first day you moved to the valley 2 years ago. You were just passing Pierre's General Store when a flash of blue caught your eye. Emily was leaving the Saloon, laughing loudly as she walked alongside Marnie. It was still early, you hadn't expected her to be leaving the bar so soon, but you felt your smile grow as you called out to her.

Emily paused, turning around to find you. She smiled at first, but as her eyes trailed down to your bloody leg, you could see her already pale face whiten. She said something to Marnie, quickly excusing herself as she ran to you. "Y/n!! Are you alight?" You glanced at your leg barely noticing the sting now. "Hmm? Oh fine, don't worry about that. Are you done with work already?" She looked a bit exasperated at your nonchalance, but it wasn't hard to miss that it was easing her anxiety. "Um..yeah. Gus let me go early cause of the upcoming storm. Are you sure you're alright?"

"Just a scratch, Em." She hummed, shaking her head and grabbing your arm as if deciding something. "Come with me, I'll get you cleaned up. " You let her pull you to her house, watching the side of her face as you went. When you reached the house, you were met with silence.

Emily pulled you along to the kitchen, finally letting go as she pointed to the dining room chair. "Sit." You did as she said, eyes following her as she searched under the sink for a first aid kit.

As she cleaned up the blood, she glanced up at you, a slight scowl on her face. "How did you manage to get this 'scratch', hmm?" "I was in the Mines, tripped over a rock as I was trying to dodge a Slime." Her eyes widened slightly, making you chuckle. "It's okay, could've been worse."

"Why were you down there in the first place? I thought you said you were gonna wait until Winter to go back." "I did, but something came up." "What's that?" "I'll show you in a sec." She hummed, going back to her work as she cleaned up the wound. The cut had went a bit deeper than you originally thought, hence the blood, but as Emily decided that it wouldn't need stitches, she put some ointment over it and finished off with a bandage.

As she walked to the sink, turning her back to you as she washed her hands, you grabbed your backpack. Emily was turning back to you as you pulled out a cloth, catching her attention. "Is that what you went back down for?" You nodded, slowly unfolding the cloth to reveal the shining Ruby. Emily gasped, dropping down into the chair next to yours, her eyes never leaving the gem. "Is that...oh Y/n, you didn't. You went down there for me?" You smiled, extending your hand for her to take the Ruby as you said, "Of course."

Emily leaned forward slightly, resting her hand overtop of the gem, but not taking it from your hand as she rested her forehead against your own. "I can't believe you...you risked getting hurt just because I wanted a Ruby?" You chuckled, your fingers dancing up against her wrist. "Well, you said you wanted one.." She scoffed, shaking her head, keeping her head pressed against yours. "You're insane, you know that?" You pushed your hand up, forcing the gem further into her hand. "Take it." She did so, pulling back slightly as she looked down at it. "It's beautiful. I hate that you got hurt because of me."

You shook your head, leaning down and forcing her to catch your gaze once more. "You didn't ask me to go down there. I made that decision myself, it's my responsibility." A shy smile appeared on her face as she set the Ruby down on the table. "Still...I don't like seeing you hurt. You mean a lot to me, Farmer." Your smile widened, feeling emboldened enough to lean forward, but stopping far enough away to allow her to take that next step.

Emily leaned forwards, not hesitating to press her lips onto yours, hands finding their way to your neck. You leaned closer, hand resting on her knee as the other reached up, cupping her cheek. You found yourselves getting lost in the kiss, only pulling away out of surprise when an annoyed voice exploded in the silence of the kitchen. "Uh ew... your room is right there, Emily." Your eyes flicked over to Haley, who was reaching into the fridge for a drink. "Sorry Haley...I thought you were out." The golden haired sister turned, eyes falling to you as she said, "Clearly." As she walked away, her voice called out one more time, "it's about time, by the way!!"

Haley:

The rippling sound of the developing solution was all that could be heard in the dark room as Haley developed her latest photos. Your shoulders brushed against the girl next to you, the cramped closet leaving little room to move around. You watched with undivided attention, a sense of pride warming your chest over the knowledge that Haley had never brought another person into her dark room, not even her sister. You knew this process was special to her, that her photography was something she was very proud of.

You looked to the photos hanging above you, various subjects littered throughout. The newest additions she was adding featured your farm, with you as the main focus in more than a few of them. Haley was moving with practiced precision, in her own world as the pictures came into view. You wouldn't be surprised if she had forgotten you were here at all. You watched in silence, eyes trailing to her face more than once. You had never seen her so at peace, almost as if a mask was removed and her guard was entirely let down.

She clipped another photo onto the drying line, taking a moment to admire it with a small smile on her face. You watched her face harden slightly, expression unreadable as she turned to you, eyebrow raising in the process. "You're staring, you know that?" You smiled, shrugging slightly. "I'm just admiring, you seem to be in your element here." Haley's shoulders eased slightly, biting her lip as she failed to stop the smile that tugged at them. "I am, nothing makes me happier than photography."

She turned back to the task, dipping another photo as you leaned forward slightly. "How did you get into it anyway?" For a moment, Haley didn't speak, focusing on what she was doing.

You thought maybe she wouldn't answer at all, when she suddenly glanced back to you, only meeting your eyes for a brief moment. "My parents have always traveled around, mostly just leaving me and Emily to our own devices. It got lonely sometimes... and you know me and Emily aren't the closest, I guess that's mostly my fault. We're just so different, you know? I guess it was easier for me to just push her away. I mean, mom and dad were never around and I guess I was just worried that one day she'd leave too so..it was just easier to keep my distance."

She sighed, moving her head forward a bit so her hair would fall, covering more of her face. "I found this camera in my parents closet.... thought I'd try it out. I realized how much it comforted me...being able to capture something in the moment. It allows me to keep things close... freeze moments in time so they'd never end." You turned once more, looking at the pictures around the small room, spotting ones of various townspeople, Marnie's cows, a bunny hiding in a bush, multiple snapshots of Emily, and finally, the newest ones of you that had been added to the collection. At your silence, Haley shook her head and muttered out, "I don't know, maybe it's stupid." You turned to her, reaching for her arm. She flinched away, looking to you as you said,

"It's not stupid...I think it's really nice. It's beautifil, actually."

She turned fully to you as you smiled, admiring the photos around you. Haley watched you for a moment, slowly reaching out to place her hand on your jaw. Your eyes found hers immediately, not expecting her to reach for you. You lifted your hand, placing it over her own as you stared at each other, the silence of the space somehow becoming even louder. You felt her pull you closer as she took a small step, an unnecessary movement in the small closet, but a welcomed one nonetheless. She leaned closer to you, foreheads bumping lightly as her nose nudged into yours. In a hushed voice, that would've been missed anywhere else, she said, "Thank you."

You almost pulled away, confusion seeping into your tone as you said, "for what?" A teasing smile pulled at her lips, her other hand finding its way to your cheek. "For being persistent." She pressed a small kiss to your lips, pulling away before you could deepen it. "For continuing to talk to me even when I was being mean to you." Another kiss. "For being one of the only people in this town who have actually tried to get to know me." Another. "For making me want to be a better person." And another. "For not leaving." Her lips fully slotted against yours, hands moving into your hair as your own hands reached for her, deepening the kiss.

She pushed you back slightly, your back bumping against the door. The kiss grew hurried, almost desperate, as if unspoken words were being passed between the two of you. When Haley pulled away, and harsh breaths replaced the once silent room, you couldn't help but laugh. Haley raised her eyebrow, her lips twitching upwards as she said, "what's so funny?"

"Nothing, I just, I didn't think you liked me back." She smiled, leaning in to kiss you once more, a few pecks following as she pulled away. "I liked you from the moment you moved to this old town....you somehow made everything feel alright again, for the first time in a long time." You smiled, wrapping your arms around her instead, pulling her into a hug. After a moment. Haley pulled back, a mischievious look on her face as she said, "I think I know what I want my next photography session to be." Her lips finding yours once more as her hand pressed against the light switch, turning off the red light and bathing the two of you in darkness.

Leah:

Rain was tapping against the roof of the small cottage, the fireplace lit and casting a warm orange glow onto the living room floor. You and Leah were sat on the floor at her coffee table, an array of art supplies strewn about the room. She had suggested a paint night for your 3rd date, which you had gladly accepted. Music was flowing softly throughout the room as the two of you laughed, talking about anything and everything you could think of.

Since coming to the valley a year ago, you and Leah had only grown closer and closer. When you finally built up the courage to gift her a bouquet, she had accepted it with a loud laugh, pulling out a bouquet of her own that was meant for you. Ever since then, you two seemed to be inseparable, spending every chance you could together. Now, as thunder rumbled in the distance, and a blanket wrapped around your shoulders, you studied Leah's face, glancing down at the canvas where you were failing miserably to capture her features. You watched as she painted with ease, clearly in her element as her eyes flicked to you every once in a while.

"Are you going to break up with me once you realize that I can't paint to save my life?" You cringed at the painting, all the colors melting together in a shapeless blob. Leah laughed, shaking her head as she dipped her paintbrush once more. "Course not! Besides, I'm sure it looks great, honey." Your chest warmed at the pet name, smiling as you looked back to the canvas. "I think a raccoon could've done a better job than me. This looks nothing like you." Leah's smile deepened, eyes finding your dejected figure as you slumped slightly. "Art is subjective anyway." You looked to her, disbelief on your face as she laughed. "I'm done with mine, you?"

The two of you moved to the side of the coffee table, sitting closer as you held your canvases away from each other. Leah's toothy grin made your stomach swim in butterflies as you looked back down to the monstrosity you had created. "Who's first?" You sighed looking at her, “I’ll go...it's better to get the disappointment out of the way." Leah gave you a pointed look, shaking her head as you turned the canvas towards her. You watched her eyes fall down to it, smile brightening as her eyes widened. "Oh wow... honey that sure is something." You groaned, setting the canvas aside as you fell back, ignoring Leah's laugh as she placed her hand on your knee.

"I told you it was awful!!" She laughed harder, making you smile, laughing along with her as you sat up. 'It is not! I just... well I wasn't expecting that." You nudged her with your foot, pushing the canvas even farther away from the two of you. "Oh whatever! Well come on, let's see your masterpiece." She huffed, ears turning red as she said, "it's hardly a masterpiece... but I suppose next to yours, anything would be." She laughed as your jaw fell open, a smile on your face nonetheless. "You're mean!" She reached forward, grabbing your hand in apology before turning her own canvas. You weren't surprised to see the beautiful painting before you, but you smiled as you took it from her, admiring how she painted you.

"Leah... this is beautiful." "Well, I had a beautiful model" You poked at her again, face scrunching as you said, 'cheesy." She laughed, scooting closer until your shoulders pressed together, admiring the painting. "This was a fun date though, right? Even if your painting didn't come out exactly as you wanted?" You nodded, placing her canvas down on the table with care.

"It was... thank you for putting it together." You placed your head onto her shoulder as she smiled, leaning her head against yours. "Maybe I could teach a few things, if you want?" 'I'd like that."

The two of you sat in silence, listening to the mix of music and rain, the fire crackling in the fireplace. It was cozy and warm, a moment you wanted to live in forever. At the sound of a loud clap of thunder, you sat up, pulling away from Leah. Your mind wandered back to the farm for a moment, wondering how your chickens were doing in their coop, knowing they weren't the biggest fans of storms like these. Before your mind could drift too far, a warm hand gently pulling at your cheek caught your attention, your eyes falling back to Leah. She smiled at you, features soft in the warm light. "Where did you go just now?" "Just thinking... my chickens don't like thunder." A soft chuckle left Leah's lips as she rested her forehead on yours. "Ahh, I see. Do you want to go check on them?" You thought for a moment, finding it hard to move away.

"No, they'll be okay, it's not too bad." She hummed, face tilting closer to yours as she muttered, "good." Her lips slotted against yours, fingers tangling in your hair as she deepened the kiss. The storm melted away into the background, your sole focus remaining on the girl before you.

Maru:

A cool breeze blew through the trees, carrying fallen leaves up into the sky and away from where they had previously landed. It was a cold Fall night, the sky clear of any clouds, allowing the stars to be on full display. They twinkled brightly, accompanied by a crescent moon. You were sure that time was ticking past midnight, but it was hard to care as you sat on a quilted blanket, wrapped in another as you watched Maru. She was tinkering with her telescope, adjusting and zooming the lens as she looked for something. Your breath was visible as you let out a yawn, the long day creeping up on you the longer you sat here.

Maru leaned away from her telescope, bright smile on her face as she turned to you. "I found it! Come here, have a look!" You stood from the blanket, keeping the one around your shoulders tightly wound against you as you walked over to her. "What am I looking at?" You leaned against the telescope, a glowing cluster catching your attention immediately. "It's the Orion Nebula! This isn't the strongest telescope, so you can't see it in its full beauty, but it's still magnificent isn't it?!" You smiled at her enthusiasm, nodding in agreement. "It is... wow" You pulled away, looking to Maru. She was looking up at the stars, a smile so wide on her face you were sure her cheeks must be aching

"Anything else you'd like to see?" You thought for a moment before saying, "Saturn?" She smiled, moving to the telescope once more. The two of you stayed there for a bit longer, Maru finding different things within space to show you while you listened to each fact she had to say.

After a bit, you layed on the quilt together, looking up at the different constellations above you.

As you listened to Maru point them out, telling you of the stories and legends that went along with them, you felt your eyes growing heavier and heavier. Fall was always one of your busiest seasons and today had been especially busy. It was the start of Blackberry season, your fingers still stained and sore from all the picking you had done earlier in the day.

Your eyes slowly closed, completely at ease as Maru droned on, unaware of your tired state.

Only a few minutes had passed before Maru realized you were no longer responding. She gently shook you awake, a sheepish look crossing her face as you blinked awake, looking to her.

"Did I doze?" She smiled, nodding as she began to sit up. "I'm sorry.. I didn't mean to keep you out so late. I know you're busy, you've probably had a long day." You shook your head, sitting up as well before standing with her. "It's okay, this was nice...I had a great time." She smiled, bundling up the quilts in her arms. "Good. I'm glad. I, I had a nice time too." You grinned, eyes still heavy with sleep as you turned towards the trail. "Can I...can I walk you back to your farm?" You raised an eyebrow, looking to Maru as her face flushed. You held your tongue, deciding not to tease her as you nodded, reaching backwards for her hand.

She smiled, interlacing her fingers with your own as the two of you made your way down the dirt path to your farm. The two of you walked in silence, listening to the crickets singing within the grass, the distant sound of an owl hooting within the trees. As you reached the porch of the farmhouse, you turned to Maru, thanking her for walking you back to the house. She smiled, other arm full of blankets while she still held onto your hand. "What are your plans for tomorrow?" You thought a moment, glancing down to the planted seeds that had just started to sprout. "Tomorrow should be less chaotic, think it's supposed to rain so. I won't be doing much." Maru nodded, looking down at the porch for a moment. "Mind if I come see you?" You shook your head, hand gripping hers tightly. "Course not."

She smiled, stepping closer to you as she pulled you into a one armed hug. "See you tomorrow then?" You nodded, stopping her from walking away.

You lifted your hand, brushing her hair back behind her ear before cupping her cheek. She stepped closer, head tilting as you kissed her. A dull thump hit your ears, but before you could pull away to question it. Maru's hands reached for you, letting you know she had dropped the quilts. When she pulled away, hesitating to move, you reached down, gathering the blankets. "Would you...want to just spend the night?" Maru smiled, nodding her head before kissing you again, following you inside the farmhouse.

Penny:

Thunder shook the old farmhouse, rain beating against the old wood. It was a crisp Spring day, the rain blowing in early this morning, cutting your duties short. The crops were easily forgotten in the rain, the animals had been fed, and any other work that needed to be done could be left for now. A fire was lit in the fireplace, your cat snoozing on the rug nearby.

The tv in the corner played quietly as you sat on the old beat up sofa, book in hand. With your new occupation of running the farm, you found little time to read nowadays, so rainy days like this were always welcomed.

You could hear the wind whistling outside, trees bowing over with the force. Rain smacked the windows in a loud pitter patter, no doubt coming down harder than before. You were just turning the page when a hurried knock sounded at the front door, catching your attention immediately. Your eyebrows scrunched together as you stood, wondering who would be insane enough to walk all the way out here in this storm. When you pulled open the door, the last person you expected to see was Penny. She was standing beneath the porch roof, arms wrapped around herself as she shivered, soaked to the bone.

"Penny?! What on Earth are you doing out here?" You pulled her inside, shutting the door behind her before quickly running to get her a towel. When you came back, wrapping it around her, she sniffled, grabbing it with shaky hands. "Thank you." Her voice came out small, eyes cast down to the floor. You stared at her a moment, completely perplexed. "Do... do you want to go take a shower? You can borrow some clothes?" She nodded, following you along to the bathroom. You grabbed her some warm clothes to change into, taking her own drenched clothing to throw in the wash. As she took a shower to warm herself up, you sat back on the sofa, book long forgotten as you wondered what could've possibly possessed her to walk through the rain to get here.

After a while, Penny returned to the living room, looking as sad as she did when she got here.

You stood on instinct, meeting her halfway. "Thank you. I feel better." You nodded, looking over her face. Her eyes were red and puffy, no doubt from crying. "Penny... what's going on?" She sighed, eyebrows furrowing together as she sat on the couch. You followed her, taking the seat next to her. "It's my mom. She came home drunk, reeking of beer. I hadn't seen her all morning and I was getting worried, so when she came home I just...I got mad. We got into this huge fight and...she said that if I didn't like it there, that I might as well leave. I know she didn't really mean it...we' ve blown up on each other over way less, but I couldn't stay there. I ran out and... my feet led me here. I'm sorry to just show up unannounced."

"It's okay, you're always welcome here. I'm sorry about your mom." She smiled slightly, meeting your eyes for the first time since she got here. "Thanks. I just don't understand why she can't see where I'm coming from. She's practically killing herself in front of me and then doesn't understand why I'm upset over it. I love her, and even if we don't always get along, she's all I have. I don't want to lose her...she's my mom." You sighed, unsure of what you could say

"Maybe...maybe we could hold an intervention for her? Show her how much this truly means to you. I could help you out...and I know Gus would be up for it."

Penny's eyes watered up once more as she looked to you. "Would you really do that?" You nodded, reaching for her hand. "Of course. I know how much Pam's drinking affects you, how much damage it's causing. Id hate to see anything bad happen when we have the means of at least trying to help her. Obviously I can't promise it'll work... but it's a step in the right direction." Penny nodded, tears slipping down her cheeks as she hugged you, grateful for the suggestion. "Thank you... you have no idea how much that means to me." She pulled back slightly, placing a gentle kiss to your cheek. You turned your head slightly, noses brushing as Penny's breath hitched.

You stepped back, already flustered from your day’s work and the frustration of missing Robin and took in the figure in front of you.

He was a full head taller than you with shaggy, raven hair and eyes of the same deep color.

“My mom isn’t here,” he said breaking the silence, “She goes dancing with Demetrius on Fridays. You just missed her.”

Your brow furrowed, “You’re Robin’s son?”

“Sebastian,” he smiled halfway, and your eye caught the ring in his lip. He stuffed his large hands into a black hoodie that hung low on his hips.

“Sebastian,” you repeated, “I’m—“

“The new farmer,” he cut you off, “I’ll let her know you stopped by,” he kept walking into the kitchen and you watched his lean frame bend down to see what was in the fridge.

“Thanks,” you trailed off. You watched him for a moment longer before retreating out the door and back down the path to your farm. Your heart beat abnormally hard in your chest as you thought about the cool contrast of him against your overheated body. A groan escaped your lips when you remembered your hair frizzy and sun dried from the river, the smell of dried sweat that plagued you after a hard day’s work, and the inevitable bug bites that littered your limbs. Not a great first impression, and you hoped you would be able to make it up in time.

Winter, year 1

This was a peculiar little town riddled with traditions. At first, you found it cheesy, but as your first year came to a close, you started to grow fond of these odd little people and their habits. When the day came for the feast of the Winter Star, you put on your warmest hat and boots, and made the trek into town with a neatly wrapped gift tucked below your arm.

Every season had been beautiful, but seeing the world covered in snow drifts nearly every day had been such a delight to you. Coming from somewhere that got a dusting of ice if you were lucky, a snowy winter was something you had always dreamed of. You had spent the season building new garden areas and rigging the sprinkler systems to be ready for spring. More than once you had to go inside to thaw your frozen fingers by the fire. It was slow, quiet work, but you didn’t mind. The roar of the wind against the snow blanketed hills was soothing, and you grew to love it more every day.

The town was alive with twinkling lights and the sound of joyful conversation when you came up the cobblestone path. The sun was bright and warm against the calm, cold morning. Jas and Vincent were chasing a chugging little train around the base of one of the trees.

Gus called out a greeting to you, and you walked over to give him a squeeze with your free arm.

“Everything smells delicious,” you grinned, taking in the tables piled high with food.

“We’re just about to start!” Mayor Lewis chimed in, clapping you on the back.

Your eyes searched the crowd for Abigail, the recipient of the box beneath your arm. Purple hair blowing in the soft breeze showed she was standing near the bridge to the beach watching Sam and Sebastian pelt each other with tightly packed snowballs.

“Asshole!” Sam exclaimed as he squirmed to shake the snow out of his shirt that Sebastian had shoved beneath his scarf.

You laughed at the sight and presented the box to her, “Ta-da! I’m your secret Santa!”

“No way!” she exclaimed, unwrapping the ribbon clumsily with her thickly gloved hands. Inside the box lay a huge amethyst geode you had found while looking around in the caves. “This is beautiful,” she gasped. “How did you know this was my favorite?”

“Lucky guess,” you laughed, gesturing to her purple hair, purple scarf, and purple sweater.

She pulled you into a firm hug, “I love it. Thank you.”

“Don’t mention it.”

“I’m really glad you moved here,” she remarked, catching you off guard. “You fit in well.”

“I don’t know about fitting in with these guys,” you said loud enough for Alex and Sebastian to hear.

“Hey!” Alex clutched his heart over his puffy coat, “That stings.”

“No, but this does,” Sebastian said, dumping more snow on Sam’s head and causing him to screech.

You and Abigail laughed out loud, clutching each other’s arms while Mayor Lewis called for everyone to come sit down to eat.

Alex scrambled away from Sebastian, and Abigail followed him up the hill.

“Hey,” Sebastian called and you turned to see him brushing snow off of his pea coat. His form was so dark against the snow it was hard to not notice him. With fingerless gloves on, he fished a small box out of the inner pocket of his coat. “For you.”

“Are you my secret gift giver?” you gasped dramatically, causing him to roll his eyes, but his lip turned up in a half smile.

Carefully, you peeled the wrapping off and tucked it into your jacket pocket. When you popped the lid off, there was a small jade carving of a frog.

“Oh. It’s beautiful,” you said softly, pulling off a glove to feel it between your fingers. It was no bigger than a coin and perfectly smooth. Small enough to fit in your pocket as a good luck charm, you reasoned.

Sebastian looked nervous for the first time since you had met him. “I hope you like it.”

“Bad luck picking the new girl, huh?” you tried to tease.

He looked you straight on, unblinking, “I don’t think this is unlucky at all.”

For a moment, you felt like everything was hushed by the snow and it was only the two of you, trying to piece something together in each other’s eyes. The silence was shattered by the Mayor once again calling in any stragglers.

“I guess we should get back,” you said.

“You can sit with my family if you don’t have a seat yet,” he said warmly, falling into pace beside you. His arm brushed firm against your shoulder, but he gave no indication of pulling away so you stayed in close proximity. You hoped the heat in your cheeks could be attributed to the cold day, and no one would think twice of you sliding into a seat next to Sebastian.

Robin and Maru greeted you warmly as the Mayor monologued about the town’s rich history, drawing a scoff and a head shake from Sebastian. You eyed his profile carefully from beside him, and in this cast of the light, you realized his eyes were a warm olive green, lighting up in the golden sun.

You were drawn back to the present by Demetrius asking your table to join hands to say grace before the meal. Seated on the end, there was no one near you but Sebastian who offered a calm, firm hand. While your body was swimming with nerves and questions, he seemed just as laid back as the day you ran into him for the first time. He took your hand in his, and you tried your best to focus on Demetrius’ words about family and togetherness, ignoring the hammering heartbeat inside your chest.

Summer, year 2

For some reason, it felt like Sebastian withdrew after winter. Or maybe you were so busy with spring seeding, you didn’t have the time to check in with him as readily. So when summer came again, you found your thoughts wandering to the quiet boy on the mountain. The weight of the frog he gave you became a familiar weight in your pocket. You would sit on your porch for quick lunch breaks and fish it out to feel its coolness against your skin. You’d never told him, but you carried it everywhere. In the mines late at night, into the woods to gather lumber, in the early morning to feed you chickens— it was always with you, and, in a way, so was he.

After weeding and watering all morning, you took a look around and realized everything that needed to be done was done, and decided to head to the beach for a swim break. You packed a quick lunch and changed into some cut off shorts over your swimsuit, dreading the long walk, but knowing it would be worth it once you felt the cold water on your legs.

Gulls screeched overhead as you came through the wooded shade and onto the soft sand, pausing to kick your shoes off and gather them in your free hand. The salty wind whipped through your hair and instantly dried the sweat on your chest as it formed while you made your way to the pier. Halfway up, you saw a figure seated at the end with a mess of jet black hair that could only belong to Sebastian. For a moment you hesitated, he looked content to be alone, but a moment of courage got the better of you and you walked the rest of the way in bare feet. His hoodie was laid out behind him with his phone, socks and shoes, and a lighter spilling out of his pocket. He had rolled his jeans up and was dangling his legs into the water.

“Is this seat taken?” you asked quietly, announcing yourself a few feet back.

Sebastian startled a little, but his face broke out into a smile when he saw it was you.

“I was saving it for you,” he said smoothly, scooting a little to the right to make more room for you.

You felt his gaze on you as you looped your tote snugly around a dock post and tucked your shoes beneath it.

“Big boss let you take a long lunch today?” he teased.

“She’s reasonable sometimes,” you smiled, fishing the sandwiches you made out of the bag and offering him one, “Hungry?”

Sebastian took it willingly, peeling back the parchment paper to take a bite.

“You taking a break?” You asked before taking a bite.

Sebastian shook his head and swallowed, “I stayed up late to finish my last contract so I took the day off.”

“Maru said you’re really good at what you do.”

He preened slightly at the compliment then shrugged, “It comes easily to me. Everyone’s different.”

“I might need you to come take a look at my computer. I tried to rig it with some spare stuff I had laying around the shed but it…isn’t quite right.”

He huffed a laugh between bites, “What do you mean not quite right?” He asked with a smile.

“I mean I can hoe a field of cauliflower, but I can barely make a call on my smart phone,” you laughed. “Everyone’s different,” you repeated his words back, leaning slightly into his shoulder.

Sebastian finished the first half of his sandwich and dusted his hands off reaching back for his phone. “Here, put your number in, and let me know when a good day to stop by is,” he handed it to you with a new contact screen open.

You punched in your name and number and handed it back, “You’re a lifesaver.”

“Just a nerd,” he replied, picking his sandwich back up.

The two of you finished your lunch slowly, talking and joking while the heat of the day receded.

The sky was starting to bleed from blue to pink and orange, and what remained of the sun rippled white hot across the surface of the receding tide.

“Man, I came out here to swim and I haven’t even gotten in,” you remarked.

“Jump in before it gets too cold, I’ll help you back up,” Sebastian nodded towards the water.

You rose and dropped your shorts by the rest of your stuff before scooting to the edge of the dock and slipping in slowly. You plunged all the way under, feeling the stinging salt envelop you and swam a few meters out before surfacing again and brushing the hair from your eyes.

“It feels great,” you taunted.

“I don’t have a towel,” Sebastian called with a smile, shielding his eyes with his hands to get a look at you in the day’s last light.

“Suit yourself!” You called back, content to splash in the waves for a few minutes.

Sebastian glanced down at your shorts and noticed something that had spilled from the pocket. When he reached over to tuck it back in, his breath caught in his chest. It was the frog he had given you last winter. In your pocket though you had no idea he would be there today. You must carry it with you every day. He looked from the frog and back to you, eyes closed and floating in the gentle waves. He quickly shed his tee shirt and jeans and jumped in after you in just his boxers. He made long strides and was beside you in seconds.

“What are you doing?” You asked incredulously.

“Hopefully something I won’t regret,” he said, a little out of breath.

His orbit started getting closer to yours until you were treading water inches from each other. Sebastian slicked his hair back from his forehead and angled it against yours. Your breath hitched as you pushed your nose against the sharp angle of his.

“Tell me if you don’t want this,” he said hoarsely.

“I want this,” you breathed back, just a hair’s breadth away from his mouth.

He let out a small groan and caught your lips in a needy kiss. Both of your mouths were cold and tasted of salt, but his tongue licked gently at your bottom lip, and you welcomed him further, enjoying the warmth. Sebastian rutted his slender thigh between your legs and you wrapped around his torso as he took over keeping you both afloat, drifting slowly to where his feet could touch. Once you were on more solid ground, his hands roamed over the expanse of your skin, pulling you close to him while he lavished you in kisses across your cheek and down your throat.

A gasp slipped out from your lips and he paused, then pulled his mouth back to yours for one more kiss.

“Sorry, I got carried away,” he panted. Though the sun was gone along with her light, you could see the flush coloring his cheeks and chest.

“It’s okay,” you smiled back, placing a lingering kiss to the hollow of his throat and causing his eyes to slip closed. “Now we’re even.”

He laughed shyly, pulling your head closer to him so he could press a kiss to your forehead. You allowed yourself a second to rest against his chest, savoring this moment because you knew it would be over soon.

“We should get back,” he whispered through the silence. You nodded against his chest and pulled away from him, already missing the way you fit together. Sebastian led you back to the pier and hoisted himself up with ease. You grabbed the edge and he leaned down to lift you up with his hands around your waist. He was lean but strong, and pulled you beside him with little effort.

You reached for your towel, and Sebastian grabbed his hoodie to dry off as best he could.

“Sorry I brought two sandwiches instead of two towels,” you gave him a smile while you scrunched the water out of your hair.

“Don’t apologize for that sandwich,” he laughed, lifting his leg to dry off his thigh.

“You’re gonna be soggy,” you frowned watching him pull his jeans back on over his damp legs.

“I’ll be fine,” he assured you as he buckled his studded belt with deft fingers. You wiggled your shorts up and packed everything else into your bag.

“Can I walk you home?” Sebastian asked, catching your face with a gentle hand and rubbing a polished thumb over your cheek.

“Yeah,” you said breathlessly.

He gave you one of those killer half smiles and started the long trek home. Most of the people in town would be heading to and from the saloon at this hour, so you opted to cut through the forest instead.

The night air was alive with the songs of crickets and frogs, buzzing and humming, but the space between you was filled with comfortable silence for the first part of your walk.

“Sorry if you had other plans today,” you said finally.

Sebastian shook his head, “This topped anything I was planning.”

Your hand brushed his, and he laced his fingers though yours with no hesitation. He led you over roots and under branches until the edge of your land came into view.

“Wow, you’ve really done a lot of work,” he remarked, taking in the clearly labeled signs and neatly spaced fence posts. You had cleared out all of the undergrowth and debris and made it something livable. “Your grandpa would be proud,” he said softly.

The compliment went straight to your throat and lodged itself there while you hoped the words were true.

You stopped on your porch, and it felt like beating around the bush. New tension and the fear of falling circled you like moths in the porch light.

“If you want I can make us something to eat,” you offered.

He gave you a saddened smile, “I’m already late for dinner.”

“Oh. Yeah, sorry. Of course,” you stammered.

Sebastian stepped closer so that you were leaning against the solid wood beam. His arm rested above your head caging you in so that his face was inches from yours again, “Don’t hear me wrong. There is nothing I want more than to follow you through that door,” he said in a low voice nearing a growl. He kissed you quickly, continuing, “I’m just afraid if I don’t leave now, I’m not sure I ever will.”

“That sounds fine to me,” you whispered, peeking up at him.

He looked at you like his heart might crack in two, like he could devour you whole, like he wanted to hold you and never let go.

“I’m sorry. I’m making this harder than I need to,” you placed a hand on his chest and reached the other to fluff out his mostly dry hair.

He leaned into your touch and sighed, “I wish I could stay.”

“I’ll see you around,” you smiled, leaning in to kiss him once more.

Both of his hands cupped your face as he kissed you languidly, moving in perfect sync with your mouth beneath his. You grabbed for his waist, searching for purchase and he moaned into your mouth when you pulled his body flush to his.

“Shit,” he smiled, leaning his forehead against yours.

“If your pants weren’t wet before, they might be now,” you joked and he busted out a genuine laugh.

“God damn it,” he chuckled, kissing you twice more quickly before backing down the porch steps.

“Get home safe,” you called, “Lot of things that go bump in the night around here.”

“I’m one of them,” he waved off your concern, tossing his hoodie over his shoulder.

You watched until his form disappeared behind the trees then fumbled for your keys, heart and mind racing.

What the hell just happened, you breathed out, dropping your bag to the floor and sinking into the chair by the door. You pressed a hand to your lips and felt your face break out into a smile. You closed your eyes and tried to remember every touch and breath you shared, your stomach turning cartwheels as you realized the echoing emptiness of your house now that you were alone.

With a sigh, you pushed out of the chair to preheat your oven for a pizza in the freezer, figuring you could squeeze in a quick shower while it cooked.

You were sad to smell the salt water fade as you scrubbed your skin, wishing you had something from the day to hold onto. After pulling on a comfy pair of old pants and a shirt, you curled up on your couch with a few slices of still steaming pizza. On the table, your phone dinged and you leaned forward to grab it. A text from an unknown number read: this is called a text message. You respond by typing the words you want to say back.

Your face cracked into a smile as you responded,

Very funny. I’m not that technologically handicapped. Could be nice if you came and held my hands to guide me through though

While he responded, you took the time to save his contact, smiling as you saw his name pop up in a notification.

My hands are on probation, they don’t behave around you

Heat rose to your cheeks again, and you bit your lip as you responded

Can I call you?

Within seconds, you had an incoming call.

“Hey stranger,” you hoped he could hear the smile coloring your voice.

“Hi,” he grunted followed by some shuffling that sounded like he was rearranging his blankets.

“Are you in bed already?”

“I just got out of the shower,” his voice sounded far away. You imagined his phone lying on the edge of his bed while he pulled dry clothes over his sinewy limbs and tried to ignore the desire that coursed through you. “And now I’m in bed,” his voice sounded close and clear. He was speaking in a low volume that made it more rumbly than normal, causing your heart to flutter.

”I’m about to get in bed too,” you switched your tv off and grabbed your empty plate to deposit in the sink for later. “I’ve got an early morning if I want to beat the heat, which I do.”

“Just let me know when you need to go. I’m a bit of a night owl.”

“I was too in college. This was a really weird life transition for me,” you laughed lightly.

You continued to chat while you put on a moisturizer to hopefully restore some of the sun damage from today and quickly brush your teeth.

“And now I’m in bed,” you narrated.

“What are you wearing?” He asked in a way that sounded genuine.

“Plaid pajama pants and a Star Wars tee shirt.”

“Shut up,” he laughed.

“What?”

“So am I.”

“Shut up!”

“If we ever lived together, laundry would be a nightmare,” his voice rumbled with a chuckle.

You tried to not let his comment affect you as you arranged your pillows and switched off your light. Your phone buzzed as you plugged the charger into it so it didn’t die while you were talking.

“What’s your bed situation look like?” He asked.

“Why do you want to know?” You asked suspiciously.

“Just trying to get a better picture of you,” he said honestly.

“A lot of pillows but not a lot of blankets.”

“Okay, a cozy queen who runs hot.”

You laughed at his analysis.

“I’m always cold at night,” he continued.

“Hmm, sounds like we’re a good match then.”

He gasped in mock surprise, “One kiss and you’re already talking about sleeping with me.”

“Who knows what the future holds,” you replied, feeling the tension grow thicker once more.

Sebastian chuckled into the receiver, “You’re killing me, angel.”

The nickname washed over you from head to toe. How long had it been since someone had such an electric hold on you? Easily years. There was something about the boy on the other end of the line that made you unafraid to keep falling though.

“I’m not usually this much of a tease,” you said apologetically.

“I like it.”

“I like you.”

There was a long, meaningful pause before Sebastian replied, “I really like you too.”

Against your better judgment, the conversation stretched on while you were losing precious sleeping time. You figured an extra large espresso in the morning could make up for it though. This hazy, new thing was something you weren’t willing to step back from just yet. Like he had plunged in the water after you today, you wanted to stay submerged in this, in him.

Despite your best efforts though, your voice started getting heavier and your words began to slur a little.

“You sound tired,” he said softly.

“Nuh uh,” you mumbled through a yawn.

“I should let you go, get some sleep.”

“Sebastian?”

“Yeah?”

“Can you stay on the phone? I like knowing you’re there.”

“‘Course, angel. I’ll be right here if you need me.”

You smiled and hugged your pillow closer, wishing it was him and his musky scent instead.