Chapter 1: Snowed In
Chapter Text
Price was fussing about the cabin. He was stressed. It’d been a great day, recharging with Simon and Stella at their winter home in the outskirts of the city. He’d come up that morning to keep them company while they hunted down trees to take back into the bustling city for their friends. Simon had deliberately planted a few sprouts some years ago, taking care of the firs as a fun side hobby in anticipation for this year. As much as he would’ve liked to have spent the night, he needed space away from them.
The two people that held his heart still had no idea about how he felt, and the last thing he wanted was to spend the night stuck with them. Coveting more of what he wanted but couldn’t bring himself to have.
“John, you can’t leave,” Stella urged him, her boots thudding onto the wooden floor.
“I have work tomorrow.”
“I know, but the weather’s not looking good!” she persisted, looking over to her husband for backup.
“John, don’t be ridiculous,” Simon chimed in. “We’re about to be snowed in. The last thing we want is for you to be stuck in your car on the way out of here.”
“I have a very important meeting in the morning I cannot miss. I need to leave right now,” John said, shaking his head. His stress was reaching a boiling point as the sun continued to descend over the horizon.
“No,” Stella said firmly. “I know you’re stressed, Kate told me how much this meeting means to you, but you shouldn’t leave. It’s not safe.”
“Don’t tell me what to do!” he snapped. Stella flinched at his tone, unable to control herself. Simon took in a deep breath, storming over to his former commanding officer and covering the startled brunette.
“John, apologize right now.”
“No, Simon, it’s fine.”
“You flinched,” he nearly growled, the deep timbre sobering the former captain right away. “Do not gaslight yourself, dove.” John watched how Simon’s gaze softened again, concern for his wife’s well-being winning out. “Are you alright?”
“Yeah, I’m okay. Just a little startled,” Stella sighed, shaking the edge off. John took a moment, basking in the sudden revelation.
“You don’t yell at each other,” he said softly, his heart pounding in his chest. This was just another revelation to the wonderful depth and devotion his friends had for each other.
“We try not to. We both grew up in angry houses,” she explained softly. “We will sometimes yell in frustration, but we try to control our anger and channel it elsewhere, so we don’t say things we don’t mean in the heat of the moment. There are some things you can never come back from.”
“I…respect that,” John said softly, glancing over to Simon. “I’m sorry, Stella,” he continued, swallowing thickly. “You didn’t deserve that ire,” he breathed out. The idea of being stuck here overnight with you two is daunting, he thought, trying to even out his heartbeat. He adored the pair, craved to be with them carnally and emotionally, but he knew how happy they were together. The last thing he wanted was to come between that.
“Thank you, John,” she said softly. “The sun’s about to go down, and Simon and I in good conscience can’t let you go out there with the cold front coming in.”
“You don’t have to work that hard in convincing me,” he chuckled wryly. “We’re snowed in,” he shrugged.
“I’ll go look for board games in the closet. What do we have here?” Stella asked.
“We have Clue,” Simon offered. The brunette groaned, rolling her eyes before smiling.
“You always beat me at Clue. But I do love playing with you.”
“That would be fun, anything else?” John said. Stella then pressed her lips together, an impish look decorating her features.
“Oh, bloody hell. That’s here, isn’t it?”
“Yes, it is. Imma go get it,” she grinned, darting off. “Boys your asses are gonna get handed to you in Rummikub.”
“Never heard of it,” John said softly.
“It’s one of her favorite board games. She usually wins,” Simon grinned. “She’s good at puzzles and if the game gets really intense, she’ll start calculating how to beat us in 15 different ways.”
“That many?”
“Not really, but it’s a wonder to see her work it out to win as quickly as possible.” The admiration in his voice thrummed in his veins, as John wished someone would speak of him in that same reverent tone.
“Really?” John asked.
“Yes, wait until you see her in action,” Simon grinned.
"Do we have enough wood for the night?"
“I think we do. I should probably chop some more before it gets too dark.”
“I really appreciate all the effort you put in to keep this place toasty enough that the fire is just the cherry on top,” Stella said as she came back. She was cradling two board game boxes and an extra box.
“Of course,” Simon beamed. “The last thing I wanted for you is to feel too cold in here. I know you’re not used to it, even after years in the city.”
“Yeah,” she said with a sheepish grin. “Should we move the mattress out into the living room so we’re close to the fire in case the power goes out?” Her voice was soft, but John caught the slight tinge of something else creeping into her voice. He was sure Simon hadn’t missed it either.
“We’ll keep you safe, luv,” he reassured her. “This won’t be like Maria. I promise you. I checked our solar batteries. If the power goes out, they’ll kick in. I tested them earlier today.”
“Oh, good,” she said softly, the tension in her voice smoothed out. “I am going to call Kate and tell her that you’re staying. You two go off to chop wood just in case.”
“You’re the boss,” Simon grinned.
“You know it,” she teased, scrunching her nose as she ushered John and Simon outside. “I’ll have some hot chocolate waiting for both of you when you get back. If you’re on your best behavior, there may be dinner on the table too.”
“What are you thinkin’ of making?”
“You’ll see,” she said, pecking Simon’s cheek. John felt his heart skip a beat at the bright smile she gave him, warmth spreading through his chest. He kept telling himself that he was imagining it, but that blissful smile matched the same ones she gave Simon.
It made him hope.
Gods, I really need to get myself together, John admonished himself as he and Simon headed outside to chop more wood. There’s no way either of them would love me. They’re already whole.
“Come on, John. Let’s take care of that wood before it gets too cold,” Simon said, nudging him outside.
~~
They spent the entire sunset working together to get the wood chopped down before lugging it together to the back porch. At Simon’s insistence, John chopped a few pieces, his tension somewhat released thanks to the exertion. Simon slid open the back door, a heady groan escaping him as he smelled dinner.
“Fuckin’ hell,” he cursed.
“That smells wonderful,” John agreed as they stepped inside and started to take off their heavy winter coats.
“Hey!” Stella beamed from the kitchen. “I’m almost done with dinner. Freshen up when you get a chance.”
“Will do, dove,” Simon said, striding over and giving her a quick kiss. “I smell something sweet.”
“You’ll see,” she smirked.
“Do you need help with anything?” John quickly volunteered.
“Not at the moment. Please, get comfortable,” she answered reaching out and squeezing his forearm. The affection felt electric, John blushing slightly at her gesture.
“Are you sure?”
“Yes, if I need help, I’ll ask.”
“Alright,” John relented, heading deeper into the cabin to freshen up. He stepped into the secondary restroom, splashing warm water on his face as he tried to calm his racing heart. Something was sparking in the air, and he didn’t know what it was. It was terrifying. The last thing he wanted was for them to know how he felt. The former captain wouldn’t be able to live with himself if they knew how he felt. It was daunting to know that his feelings could never be returned already and even after months of trying to get over the pair, he couldn’t escape them.
It’s just dinner and maybe some board games. I can do this. It’s no different than being at Emily’s or the Lucky 7, he reminded himself as he took a few deep breaths before stepping out of the restroom.
He could still smell their dinner but something in the air had shifted. The sky was dark now, snow pelting against the windows as the storm really managed to kick in. John took another deep breath before heading toward the kitchen, seeing the table set up for all three of them. The lights had been dimmed a little, with the place settings close around the table.
“Hey, welcome back. Simon’s off doing some stuff in the living room,” Stella said, taking off her apron and setting it on a hook by the fridge. John observed how she undid her bun and fluffed up her hair, looking as radiant as ever. There was a dust of rose covering her cheeks as she grinned at him, her nose doing that little thing he adored.
Bloody hell, I can see why Simon never shuts up about it, John thought as Stella brought a small serving bowl to the table.
“Is that pork shoulder?” John asked.
“Yeah, I found some and uh, wanted to try my hand at it. Followed a bit of Em’s recipe but also my mom’s,” Stella answered, her blush deepening. “I taste tested it a bit ago and I thought it was okay, but I’m not sure.”
“I’m sure it’s incredible, angel,” he said, not even thinking about it. He cursed himself for the slip, but then the look in her eyes made him reconsider. Stella’s cheeks flushed further, and she could barely contain her smile.
“Thank you. I really appreciate the vote of confidence,” she beamed.
“Dove, you made pernil?”
“Yeah. Y Arroz con cebolla y bacon. There’s also a side salad for you two in the fridge.”
“I’ll grab that,” Simon said, not even fazed by the color in his wife’s cheeks. John watched as a silent conversation took place with the pair, a trait he envied, as Stella quietly nodded. He continued toward the refrigerator, groaning at the sight of a bowl covered up with cling wrap. “I see cookie dough.”
“Yep. After dinner.”
“But –”
“No raw dough!”
“Fine,” Simon huffed, coming back to the table with the small salad bowl. John chuckled, shaking his head.
“Really, Simon?” he asked.
“You’ve tried her cookies. Am I wrong?”
“No, I would’ve snuck some dough myself if I wasn’t so hungry.”
“You two, stop it right now and eat, carajo,” Stella said, shaking her head. She came back with a serving bowl full of rice, setting it next to the pork shoulder. “Dig in,” she said proudly. “Let me grab the parmesan cheese.” It didn’t take long for her to come back, container of grated cheese in hand.
“You first,” John said softly. Simon grinned; the look completely missed by John.
“Okay,” she said softly, filling up her plate. Simon and John then followed suit, starting to eat quietly. “I was thinking,” Stella started, chewing on her lip before taking a deep breath. “We could settle into the living room, bring out the air mattress and watch movies?”
“No board games?”
“Well if you want me to kick your ass in Rummikub I’m not against that,” she giggled.
“I’ll take a crack at the game,” John challenged.
“Oh, you don’t know what you’re in for, John,” Simon said beaming at his wife.
“Considering how competitive she is with other games, I think I do,” he chuckled.
“Be prepared to eat your words…and maybe some cookies.”
“Now that second one, I’m very much looking forward to,” John grinned.
“I’m glad I bought that extra gallon of milk,” Simon chimed in. “Can’t wait.”
~~
After dinner, Simon and John cleaned up and packed up any leftovers while Stella busied herself with making cookies. Within twenty minutes, the kitchen was clean, and they were all gathered up in the living room to play some Rummikub. A plate of fresh cookies, three glasses of milk, and the coffee table set up for them all to play.
Simon explained the rules of the game and got them all set up for the first round. It was quiet as they all strategized for their first turn, Stella frowning as each turn passed and she wasn’t able to start playing. It amused John to see her mind work, how she was slowly setting tiles aside as she took from the pile before finally sighing in relief.
“Finally got the thirty?” John said.
“Yes. Thank God,” she groaned.
“Too bad,” Simon said with a shrug. “I just won,” he said, finishing up his tiles.
“No fair!” Stella screeched, getting up and tackling him. “I didn’t even get to drop mine!” John laughed as he watched the pair tease each other, amused. The sound was pure, and so unexpected, the couple stopped to watch him. He stopped when the cabin fell quiet, blushing furiously as the realized Simon and Stella were observing him with the same soft look in their eyes.
“Sorry, that was a little –”
“Do not apologize for that,” she interrupted John as she straightened up. “It’s been a long time since either of us heard you laugh that hard.”
“You’ve noticed,” John muttered.
“Of course, we’ve noticed,” Simon chimed in. “We care about you.”
“It’s nothing,” he said, dismissing his own feelings.
“No, you don’t understand,” Stella said quickly. “We’ve been trying to talk to you for months.” John stared at her, confused. What could they even mean? He’s been talking to them constantly, hanging out with them when they gather with their friends, at the store, at the bar. They’re consistently interacting with each other, what would she- “John, we know.”
The former captain immediately froze. Three words and his feeble attempts at keeping himself together crumbled apart. His chest felt tight, his heart racing, panic slowly starting to surge through his veins. The one thing. The one thing, he wanted to avoid, and it still found a way to happen. His breathing hitched, the dread of their rejection making it harder to breathe. John’s throat felt tight, his eyes finding it hard to focus on anything.
“Shite,” Simon cursed. He sounded too distant, far away.
“I’ve got it, you grab the weighted blanket off the closet,” John knew it was Stella’s voice, but it also sounded distant.
“You sure?”
“Yes!” John heard the voice closer now. “John, please, take a deep breath for me,” Stella’s soft voice was clear. “Breathe in,” she instructed. John closed his eyes and followed her lead, trying to focus on her voice. “Breathe out,” she continued. “And another deep breath in.” Her voice was sweet, soothing, and listening to her was helping more than he’d anticipated. “And out. One more, for me.” John opened his eyes, the world coming into focus again. Stella was right in front of him, kneeling on the carpet. Her hands twitching before they finally relaxed as their gazes met. “Good job. What do you need right now?”
“I need to leave.”
“No, you can’t,” Stella said. “You can walk around the cabin if you need to release some steam, but Simon and I aren’t going to let you leave. There’s no visibility beyond the balcony right now.”
“I can’t be here. I-I-” he stammered, trying figure out the best
“Please, take your time, Simon and I are here for you.”
“I don’t- I don’t want to –” he winced, tearing his gaze away from her.
“John, sweetie, this conversation is not going to go the way you’re catastrophizing it in your head right now. Please, stop overthinking it for a second and look at me,” Stella pleaded. It took a moment for the words to process in his mind but, the message was getting there.
This conversation is not going to go the way you’re catastrophizing it in your head, her voice echoed in his mind multiple times before he finally turned to look at her. Really look at her.
“How did you know I was doing that?” he whispered.
“Because I suffer from rejection sensitive dysphoria, too,” she admitted.
“There’s a name for this?”
“Yeah, there’s a name for a lot of things,” Simon said as he came in with the blanket in his hands. “I’m glad to see you’re calmer, now.”
“I want to keep talking, but first, we need to make sure you’re okay. Do you want a hot chocolate? Tea?”
“Whiskey,” John tested.
“This is a dry house, pick something else,” Simon said, sighing.
“But you drink at the bar.”
“One glass that I entertain for the entire time you lot drink multiple. Other than that, no more.”
“And you?” John asked Stella softly.
“Parents are alcoholics. Mom’s recovering, dad’s…well, you remember my wedding celebration,” Stella answered. John grimaced as he recalled the afternoon vividly. Her father came in already somewhat tipsy, and started making a whole fuss about how there was little alcohol at the celebration in the first place. Then proceeded to get hammered on the hard alcohol and trying to grab the microphone for a speech nobody wanted to hear.
“I’ll take a hot chocolate,” John said softly after reconsidering.
“Simon?”
“I’ve got it, you’ve got this,” he said, walking over and giving Stella the blanket.
“I’ve got it,” she repeated, taking a deep breath of her own.
“I love you,” Simon said softly, kissing the corner of her mouth before whispering something in her ear. Stella gave a soft nod before he stood up and headed toward the kitchen.
“Okay,” she said, taking another deep breath and clearing her throat. “I’m going to start with this to help put your mind at ease. Simon and I feel the same way you do,” Stella said softly. John felt like the ground was being ripped right out from under him again. This time, it was different.
This time, it was disbelief.
Every scenario he’d made up in his head about their rejection disappeared. As much as he’d been pining for them, finding the places where he could fit into their lives, the former captain had never even considered the possibility of them reciprocating. John stared at her, still in mild shock. Stella felt her heartbeat in her ears, waiting for him to react. All the prepared speeches that she and Simon had made were thrown out the window the moment John started to have his panic attack. She wanted to keep talking, to reassure him, but wouldn’t do that until she was certain he was listening to her.
“You do?” John finally spoke up after a long silence.
“Yeah,” she answered. “Simon and I talked about it after Laura’s wedding. He saw the look you gave me, and I saw the look you gave him as he protected me from Ricardo. And then you took care of Simon while I was at the book convention, and he told me all about how attentive you were.”
“When you two asked me to come over for dinner…”
“We were trying to ask you out on a date. And have been for weeks,” Stella said, grunting as she stood. “I need to stop kneeling because my knees are fucking killing me.”
“Please, sit down,” John said quickly, making space for her to sit next to him. She slowly settled next to him; her smile timid but still radiant.
“John, after the wedding, Simon and I spent a lot of time thinking about you. About how we hoped you found someone to take care of you who would love you the way you deserved. And then we realized we wanted to be those people. Simon mentioned how he’d always considered you attractive but hadn’t given it much thought because he hadn’t fully worked out his sexuality or yours. And me,” she started, blushing furiously. “I was a little put off by your coldness, but then I realized that your heart was as sweet as Simon’s. So, I grew attracted to you, too.”
“I didn’t think either of you would’ve even considered hearing me out.”
“Simon and I are on the same page for a lot of things. And you were one of the easiest decisions for us to make. We love you; we want you happy, we want to take care of you, and when we realized that we felt the same as you, we wanted to do the right thing and court you properly.”
“But then your stubborn arse started avoidin’ us,” Simon chimed in, walking in with a tray loaded with mugs of hot chocolate, topped with whipped cream. “Dove and I were positive we were reading your signals correctly, so we were stumped when you kept dodging us.”
“I’m sorry,” John apologized, reaching over to take the warm drink. “This smells heavenly,” he muttered, bringing it closer to his lips. “Is that…cinnamon?”
“My favorite,” Stella said, smiling up at him. “We get it from Café Cortés. Thank you, osito.”
“You’re welcome,” Simon beamed. “What made you want to avoid us so much? It shocked Dove and I you even accepted our invite to come over today. Any signs that it would’ve been just us three had you always runnin’ to the hills.”
“I dreaded the thought of me speaking up,” John finally admitted, keeping his gaze on the swirling chocolate drink. “I feared your rejection.”
“Well, I totally went the wrong way about the conversation. I am so sorry, John. I didn’t think me saying that would set you off,” Stella apologized, reaching over. Her hand hovered over his thigh, respecting his space. It was a strange feeling, being so raw and vulnerable, and at the same time having his personal boundaries honored in such a way. John nodded, sighing as he felt the warmth of her hand on his leg. “Simon can tell you, we both have had moments where we overthink and overanalyze things.”
“I admire your grace in helping me come down from that episode.”
“Of course, we will help you and take of you for as long as you want us to. If at any point, you want it to end, you tell us.”
“I don’t think it could ever come to that,” John said softly, looking at the pair. “I love you both too much to even think about a future without you.” Stella squeezed his thigh as Simon took the words right out of her mouth.
“Same here,” Simon said softly.
“So, how do we go about this?”
“We date, communicate, and take it a step at a time,” Stella explained.
“How would dates work exactly?” John asked.
“Whatever makes you most comfortable. The way Rose described her relationship with Ale and Rudy is that they took her out on group dates and also separately,” she answered. “I’m really proud of her growth. For someone who really avoided all sorts of relationships, Ale and Rudy have been incredible with her. She had some bumps along the way, but once she understood that she needed to nurture all of the relationships instead of splitting them into tiny pockets of time, things flowed better for her.”
“I’ll have to ask her for advice.”
“She and Gaz will have plenty to give. I don’t know everything about how Sean and David courted him, but I’m sure it’s a story he’d love to tell you.”
“I didn’t expect tonight to go this way, but I’m very happy it did.”
“Us too,” Simon beamed.
“Now, can we get the mattress out here so we can watch movies and cuddle? I would love to have John between us if he’s willing,” Stella requested softly.
“That sounds like a wonderful idea, dove. John?”
“Yes,” he said quickly. “I’d love that.”
“Get ready for a lot of that. We’re both cuddlers.”
“Sounds like heaven,” John mused. Stella’s airy giggle flooded him with warmth as she leaned into him.
“I want a Rummikub rematch though,” she added.
“Of course, you do,” Simon he said, smirking at her. “Let’s get that sorted first and then we’ll bring the mattress out here. What do you want to watch?”
“The most not-Christmas movie Christmas movie. Die Hard.”
“It is too a Christmas movie,” Simon argued. John laughed at the revelry, elated that he had a lot of these moments to look forward to.
With the two people he couldn’t live without.
Chapter 2: Love Letters
Summary:
Love Letters that Simon has received for every Christmas over the course of a few years.
Notes:
Hey everyone! I come with prompt two, Love Letters.
The featured couple here Simon and Stella with a little bonus at the end. If you read the first prompt, and have read The Assistant, you know exactly who it is. (Price)
This is the AU where they get together first and he joins later.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Simon,
I know you particularly don’t enjoy Christmas, so that’s not entirely what this letter is.
I wanted you to find this while you’re on your visit to your family, so you remember that there’s someone out there alive who’s very thankful you’ve fought to keep going.
You’re an incredible friend and I’m so thankful to have you in my life. Don’t forget to bundle up in the cold and I hope you enjoy the hot chocolate bar I’ve attached to this letter while you’re in your flat.
So, help me God, if I find out you used boiling water with this Cortés bar, I’m going to seriously question our friendship.
I’m kidding.
Or am I? :P
Happy Three Kings Day!
Stella.
Simon,
What a fucking year.
I can’t believe we’re actually together. I love you so much and I’m so thankful every day that I get to wake up next to you.
I have to say, I was already brainstorming this letter before we got together, and words were failing me. All I wanted to do was tell you how much I love you and it was hard to find a way to do it without being painfully obvious of what I was trying to say.
Thank you for inviting me to come with you to see your family. I’m honored to have the privilege to come with you and greet them. I know how personal this visit is to you and being invited along shows yet another level of your continued growth and healing.
I’m so fucking proud of you. I can’t wait to keep witnessing more of your growth and to support you every step of the way.
All my love,
Stella
PS: Also, please let me know if the gift attached is too much. We’re already going to St. Petersburg for the Rumble so I thought we could cross off another item on the same trip. Happy early Three Kings Day!
Osito,
First off, I love you.
Secondly, I’m so happy we’re spending this holiday with our new family. Our friends. I was already looking for flights and places to stay to see your family when you told me you wanted to spend it here. In the city. With our found family.
I’ve already got almost all of your presents and I’m so excited. At this point, it’s been two holidays with a letter from me, so I will deliver again this year.
I’m so proud of your continued growth and healing. I love you more and more each day. I will continue to be your biggest cheerleader for the rest of my days. I know we just had the talk of what our long-term plans are and I’m here to remind you again, you’re it for me.
Thank you for always reminding my feelings are valid. Thank you for being so patient with me when all I want to do is pull my hair out. Thank you for taking care of me. I can’t thank you enough for believing me when I don’t believe in myself at times.
I can never thank you enough and I will continue to spend the rest of my life showing you how much I love you.
I’m going to smother your bearded cheeks in kisses when I give you this.
Love,
Dove
PS: The Inter Miami 2025 schedule isn’t out yet so…surprise! We’re making a trip to Miami as a whole crew to see Leo. (and we’ll also be able to visit the bookstore we’ve been talking about!)
Osito,
Another holiday together, and another letter.
The way your eyes lit up last year when I pulled out the envelope from my purse made me so happy.
I want to keep doing this for as long as I can.
This year has been a roller coaster, I can’t believe we actually found a house that was perfect for the both of us. It’s absolutely perfect and the library you and John made for us is stunning. I can’t get over it. I love spending our lazy days in there cuddling and reading together. It’s the perfect way to recharge.
I was hoping to surprise you with a dog today, but then I got the call for Spectre sooner than I was expecting. He and Bowser are the best pair of mismatched siblings we could’ve asked for. Also, please, for the love of God, stop leaving your socks in your boots. Bowser has torn through more than half of them already.
I love our little family and I’m so thankful every day that I get to wake up next to you. Every day with you is a gift and I will continue to fight and cheer for you with the same passion I did back then.
I’ve attached my first completed manuscript for Ash and Sera. I…I hope you like it. I’ve been working on this all year and I’m finally ready to share it with you. Thank you for believing in me.
Te amo,
Goddess
To my precious Husband,
I can’t believe I get to call you that now, officially.
Having our friends with us when we eloped was the best choice. I cannot thank you and the rest of the team enough for surprising me with the family members you flew over. They were the right people to have on our special day. It was the perfect wedding with the people we wanted to share it with.
You have been such a light in my life since you came back, and I will never stop telling you that. I’m glad you’re seeing it in yourself just like you’ve made a believer out of me with all the love you’ve shown me these past three years together.
I love seeing you live. Every time you laugh, my stomach flips. When you cradle my cheek, looking at me like I’m the best thing in your fucking life, my heart flutters. I feel the same way. The way we fit together, when you tuck my head under your chin when we cuddle in bed, I feel safe. The world melts away, leaving the one thing that matters.
You.
Until Bowser does something and Spectre comes to get us.
I love you and I’m so thankful we’ve taken the next steps into forever together.
Yours in this universe and in every other,
Dove
Starlight and Moonlight,
With Stella being busy this holiday with her book release tour, I wanted to make sure you got a letter this year.
I’m sure she’s probably got one stashed somewhere in the house, just waiting for that moment when she comes back.
I would like to start with one very important thing. I want to thank you, you two have given me the best gift I could ever ask for.
Being with you.
I know I’ve been a stubborn arse to you, Stella, and I’m sorry. I will never stop apologizing for my callous behavior. From the moment I met you, I could see why you were Simon’s light. You’re a joy to be around. Brilliant, funny, and beautiful on the inside as you are on the outside. It’s an honor to be able to worship you and give you all the love you deserve.
Simon, words fail to capture how much I revel to be in your presence. Seeing you smile, hearing you laugh, cuddling with you fill me with such joy I can barely fathom. You’re incredible. The real you is wonderful and I will be thankful for the rest of my life that you’ve bestowed me with this honor. Every moment I spend with you is precious.
I never thought love could be this easy. Yes, there’s work, but you two have taught me so much. Spending time with you recharges me in a way I’ve never felt with another partner. Sharing your interests has brought me so much fulfillment, even if I still can’t understand how monster anatomies work. Starlight, bless your heart, you can’t just explain things away with “magic lube.”
I do think I still need to work on that “just go with it” that you two embrace at times when reading some of these books.
Nights spent with you either in bed watching something or tangled up together make me feel complete. We all fit together in a way that I still can’t comprehend, but I’m thankful all the more for every moment we have together.
I never thought two people could ever make me this happy and that this is my life now.
With love,
John
Notes:
Transalation:
Osito - Little bear
Chapter 3: White Christmas
Summary:
After dinner at the private 141 Hotel Bar, Simon prepares to surprise Stella with a late night dessert date. She doesn't realize what's happening and thinks Simon's showing her a private set up for someone else.
Until she finally sees who it's really for.
Notes:
Hello! I am back with prompt number three. This one's also sweet and fluffy, but no smut. (That's for tomorrow.)
Today's couple are Simon and Stella, but the world's a bit different. This is a little what if peek into a Mafia AU that I've been cooking since last year. The crew is totally going to be there, along with some special surprises that round out the world and make it even more interesting.
Chapter Text
Simon fussed about the private club house. He’d been able to procure Cortés bars from the shop and asked the chefs to make some chocolate chip cookie batter while he fussed about making sure there was enough milk in the upstairs fridge. They’d all had dinner together at their private bar, but this was special.
It was the closest thing to a date with Stella.
Ever since they’d taken her out of the brothel, she’d barely left the hotel. It didn’t matter how much Simon promised her she would be safe, her fear of being seen by the cartel kept her tethered indoors. She was slowly working through her pain, thanks to the therapist John had found for her, but there were things she was still struggling to move forward with.
Like walking outside.
Simon hoped that she would accept coming up to see the night sky. It was forecasted to snow, but even if it didn’t, the view from the top of the hotel was spectacular. He was sure she’d appreciate it. His heart thundered in his chest, the anxiety simmering beneath the surface. Things needed to be perfect. Or at least, as close to perfect as they could be.
“It looks nice,” spoke a voice behind him. The Lieutenant turned to see Valeria standing there, hands on her hips, studying the set up. “Now I see why you asked Rudy to go fetch the Cortés.”
“It’s her favorite,” he explained, swallowing nervously as he looked over everything. “You don’t think it’s too much?”
“No,” she assured him. “I really like what you did. You got her more books?”
“Yeah,” Simon said softly. “She reads quickly, so I grabbed her some new ones from her favorite authors. Dove won’t come outside, but I will do my best to bring the outside world to her.”
“You’re a good man, Simon,” Valeria said softly.
“I try,” he said softly. After going through everything again, he realized that it was pointless to keep fussing over perfection. He’d set up everything. There was no more he could do to delay it. “I should go get her. I’m scared of what she’ll say when I ask.”
“She’ll say yes.”
“How do you know?”
“Because it’s you,” Valeria grinned at him. “She likes you.”
“Thanks,” Simon said, taking another deep breath before they both started back down to the residential suites. The brilliant fashionista gave him another encouraging smile before starting down the hall toward home. He took a deep breath before stepping into his own suite, smiling slightly at the sight of Stella settled onto the couch.
“Hey,” she said softly, looking up at him. “You took your time getting back,” she said softly.
“I was uh, setting up something.”
“Oh,” Stella replied softly, almost…
Disappointed? he thought, trying to make sense of it. “I wanted to ask you if you could come with me for a moment.”
“Where?" her voice was soft, tentative. “You want to show me what you set up?”
“Yeah,” he said, following her lead. “It’s upstairs.”
“Up in the lobby?”
“No, actually. On the rooftop cabana. The pool’s been closed for the night so there will be nobody up there.” He watched an array of emotions dance across her features, but he could barely tell if they were good or bad.
“Oh, okay,” Stella said softly. “Yeah, I’ll go.”
“Come on,” Simon said softly, holding out his hand toward her.
“Do I need to bring my jacket?”
“You can if you want to; the cabana is temperature controlled.”
“Cool. I’ll grab one regardless,” she said, disappearing into her room. She stepped back out, wearing an extra hoodie over her long-sleeved shirt. Her lips twisted into a nervous smile, a feeble attempt to hide her obvious tension at the thought of being outside.
“Comfy?”
“Yeah,” she said softly, taking a deep breath. “Let’s go.” Simon nodded, leading her toward the private elevator. It was quiet as they rode up to the rooftop, Simon eager to explain himself, but holding back at the risk of making things uncomfortable. Even if he told her that what he’d been preparing to surprise her, he wasn’t sure if she’d even believe it. She was still struggling to come to terms that she deserved good things.
He wanted to give her the world.
“It snowed?!” her voice squeaked as the elevator doors opened. The outside of the cabana was covered in a fresh blanket of snow. “Wow, it’s been so long since I’ve seen snow,” she muttered, walking toward the windows and drinking in the view of the city. Simon beamed at her enthusiasm, elated that she was embracing the moment for what it was. “The view is so pretty from here! It’s also like, super cozy in here.”
“I’m glad you think so,” he said, waiting for her to turn around. A few quiet moments later, Stella turned and looked around the rest of the cabana, awed at the effort he’d put in. The lights were dimmed to a comfortable level, there were plush blankets on the cabana bed, and the nearby table had an empty platter ready for a treat along with a small stack of books.
“This is incredible, your date is going to love this,” Stella said softly, yearning tugging at her heart. As comfortable as she was around Simon, she knew she was too fractured for someone like him. He was patient with her, but she doubted that courtesy would also be extended if they decided to go beyond their friendship. Her chocolate eyes caught the stack of books on the table, and the gift bag that was hidden behind them. “You even got them books?!” she continued, striding over and reading the first title of the generous stack. “Oh, this is Clio!” she whispered, taking the book in her hands. “That’s the barista.” She carefully turned it around, cocking her head sideways as she recognized the other two characters. “And Trixie and Lucy. You need to get me one,” she grinned, opening the book. “It’s signed! To –” her voice dropped off as her mind caught up.
To Stella, read the inside.
“You did this for me,” her voice cracked as she took a look around the room with a renewed perspective. “All of this, for me?”
“Yes,” Simon answered, moving closer. The twinkle in her eyes was all he needed. While this hadn’t been the plan, he was glad that it all worked out. The surprise still did its job. “Merry Christmas, dove.”
“Thank you,” she said softly, holding the book close to her chest. “I can’t wait to read this and the rest.”
“Want to get started?”
“You sure?”
“As long as you read out loud while I make cookies.”
“What?!”
“I had the chefs make some chocolate chip cookie dough.”
“Oh my god,” Stella said in disbelief. “Cookies, books, a cozy place to read and look at the city, I-wow.”
“I’m glad you like everything,” Simon beamed. “There’s one more thing.”
“Jesus Christ, Simon. I don’t know how much more you could even do to –”
“Want some cinnamon hot chocolate?” he asked, holding up a very familiar orange bar.
“Cortés,” she sighed. The yearning came back as she realized how much he’d paid attention. This holiday was more than she could’ve ever bargained for.
“Dove?”
“Oh, right, yes. Please,” she nodded, looking at the stack of books on the table. Each one was something she’d mentioned in passing, or the next in a series she wanted to dive into. Carefully, she peered into the gift bag and found pens, markers, and annotating tabs. He listened, she thought, glancing over her shoulder to see him busy at the kitchenette. “Do you need context for the Clio book?”
“If you could, please.”
Stella then settled onto the plush bed and grinned as she went off explaining to Simon all the details about the Creature Café series, starring a grumpy Barista and a lively employee. It was the perfect way to fill the time as he prepped their drinks and snack, her melodic voice wrapping around him and keeping him present on the same day that his life once fell apart.
And he couldn’t have asked for better company.
Chapter 4: Kissing Under the Mistletoe
Summary:
After months of being a part of Stella's security team, the tension between Simon, Stella, and John come to a head.
All because of one kiss Simon and Stella share under the mistletoe. Then the night becomes all about her, her pleasure, and finally giving into their wants.
Each other.
Notes:
A little late today but the spice was spicing.
This is a little peek at a Bodyguard AU where Stella's a celebrity and 141 (plus the Vaqueros) serve as her security team. So this one shot features Price, Simon, and Stella.
I hope you enjoy the spice!
Chapter Text
If there was one thing Stella hated about the industry, stalker situation aside, it was the parties. They could go on for hours when all she wanted was to be home to catch up on her reading. Or gaming. There were hundreds of other things she’d rather be doing than be at the wrap party of her latest film. It would also help if I stopped fucking fantasizing about my goddamn security detail, too, she thought with disdain as she turned away from gawking at Simon. They both look too good in these suits. I’m going to kill Emily, she thought, sighing as she found her best friend and assistant all cozy with her boyfriend. Soap was also on her security detail, but he self-assigned himself to Emily. The rest of his team didn’t mind though from the looks of it.
John and Simon were also always around her. No matter how much she insisted that they rotate with Gaz, Ale or even Rodolfo. It was suffocating, but the feeling of safety the former Captain and Lieutenant provided were worth every cent her management was paying for.
The club had been outfitted with gaudy and bright Christmas décor. Garlands and lights illuminated most of the VIP balconies while there were so many trees lining up the corners that Stella was sure they all had to be fake. As always, Hollywood never did anything halfway.
“Good thing the paps are banned in here,” started a deep voice from behind her. “I would loathe to see that pout of yours splattered across the tabloids.” Stella whipped her head around to see Simon approaching her. While his lips were concealed with his usual surgical masks, the heat in his eyes sent her heart fluttering madly in her chest.
“I wanna go home,” she groaned before a loaded sigh escaped her lips. “I’m only here because Emily said I should. The last time the news rags had a field day because I didn’t show.”
“I know, goddess,” he said, raking his gaze across the room. Makarov was still in the upper balcony, nursing what was definitely water and enjoying the wide array of models that were dancing at his table.
“How’s John?”
“He’s alright,” Simon answered. “He can’t wait to get home either.”
“Yeah, seeing your narcissistic ex playing it up for the world can do that to you,” Stella sighed, glancing down at her own can of soda. Her focus was back up on that balcony, watching her co-star accidentally spill something he was pouring. His aloof demeanor made her uneasy, a slight chill going down her spine as his mask slipped for a second. “Is he drunk?”
“No, that’s water in his glass,” Simon answered.
“How do you know?”
“I just do,” he teased her, nudging her shoulder. A real smile graced her lips for the first time all night, and Simon was elated to be the one who put it there.
“I miss Navidades at home.”
“Spent it with your family?”
“We had so many events to get to, oh my god,” Stella answered. “There was my mom’s aunt who always threw one at the same time my abuela did hers every 24th. We would always go to that one first, have some dinner, which was usually god-awful, and then meet up with dad to go to my grandmas on his side.”
“Why was the food awful?”
“Textures,” she shuddered. “As a kid, some of the stuff was not it.”
“I don’t blame you,” Simon said, grabbing a plate of appetizers off a nearby waiter. “Here.”
“What?”
“You skipped dinner. Eat something.”
“Oh.” Warmth flooded her system as Simon offered her the light snack. As much as she tried to not read into the gesture, every time he or John did something like that, Stella couldn’t help but wonder if there was more to it. Some of their attentiveness felt too intimate in comparison to her last security detail. “Thanks,” she said.
“Of course,” Simon grinned. He tore his gaze away, unable to keep his wild thoughts under control. She was eating, and yet, his mind kept wondering how her lips would feel against his skin. Were they soft as she was? Bloody hell, he cursed mentally. Get a grip, Riley, he continued thinking, watching as Stella handed him the empty plate. “Good job,” he praised.
“Thanks,” Stella said, swallowing thickly as her cheeks flushed with color. The moment hung between them, words failing to take shape. Simon’s eyes darted down to her lips before meeting he eyes. In the time he’d been working for her, he’d known her to be selfless, to take care of everyone on her team but herself. The look in her eyes now was wholly different. She wanted him. He’d only seen her give that look to someone else.
John.
Oh hell, he cursed. Now was not the time to kiss her. Not in public. Not where people could see. It wasn’t because he didn’t want the world to know but because she deserved to be savored, worshipped, and this wrap party was not the place for any of it.
The pop of a champagne bottle startled them both back to their senses. Simon let out a sharp exhale as he looked away for a moment. He turned back toward Stella, frustration gnawing at his chest. There was more than disappointment in her eyes. She took a large step away from him, pressing her lips together as she tried to process what had just happened. The brunette had visibly withdrawn, almost like she’d felt –
Bloody hell, I fucked up. I wasn’t rejecting you! Simon screamed internally, wanting a do-over. Stella quickly picked up her phone, sending Emily a text before starting to make her way outside. No, you’re not going to leave thinking I just rejected you. Not if I can help it, he thought, storming after her. His eyes followed every movement of the people around him, watching for threats but also her. The goddess of his dreams, the star in his darkest nights. Her shoulders hunched and he knew he had little time to fix this. “Stella,” he called out, gently grabbing her by the elbow and turning her toward him.
“Hey!” cried out one of the secondary actors. An up-and-coming comedian who was known more for his loud personality than his jokes. “We finally got someone under the mistletoe!” The pair looked up and Simon could barely contain his glee. There was his second chance.
“I couldn’t – ” Stella started as someone started shouting “Kiss!” from somewhere in the crowd. It took her a moment to register who’d said it first as the rest of the party joined in on the boisterous chant. I’m going to kill Emily. “You don’t have to do this. We can just go. I don’t mind taking the heat for it,” she started rambling, visibly freaking out. Simon carefully removed his mask, grasping her jaw as he turned her toward him. The rest of her nervous words died in her throat as their eyes met, the heat she was sure she’d seen in Simon’s eyes before back with a renewed vengeance.
“Yes, or no.”
“What?”
“Do you want me to kiss you, yes or no?”
“Yes,” was her breathless answer. Simon leaned in, his breath tickling her ear.
“Good girl,” he murmured, dipping his head and meeting her lips in a chaste kiss. The crowd rejoiced, before the DJ finally came back from break and began his second set. He smirked, admiring the dazed look in her eyes before leaning back into her ear. “We’re going straight home, and you are going to be a good goddess and not overthink this until we’re safely locked inside the house. Are we clear?”
“Yes,” Stella replied, trying to keep herself together.
“John, call the car. We’re going home,” Simon spoke into his earpiece. “Do you want to go get Emily?”
“No. She’s got an apartment nearby, I’m sure Soap will walk her home and stay with her,” she answered.
“Alright then. Come on, let’s go,” he said, carefully resting his hand at the small of her back. It was hard to look away from him. After nearly a year at her side, Stella knew him well. To the outside world, he seemed unaffected by their little peck but, she knew better. The hand at the small of her back was no longer a gentle presence. His palm was fully splayed out, his thumb discreetly brushing against the skin of her back to keep her present.
It was hard to not overthink it’s meaning.
“Everything alright?” John asked as they exited the club.
“We’ll talk when we get home,” Simon answered as the SUV pulled up. They all quickly boarded the car, Sean speeding off into the Los Angeles hillside to get them back to the mansion. Stella’s mind ran wild with so many scenarios, she didn’t register the drive. It didn’t make sense, nothing felt remotely real. “Stella,” his voice cut through her frantic thoughts as the world came back into focus. “We’re home.”
“Oh,” she said quickly, swallowing thickly before being helped out of the car.
“Gaz already checked the perimeter, as did Ale and Rudy. No signs of your stalker tonight,” John chimed in as he followed the pair through the garage door. Sean nodded as he ducked out through the front yard, headed to his wing. John’s heart raced in his chest, his gut feeling telling him that something happened at the party. He wouldn’t dare to step inside. Filming this movie had been months of careful avoidance, and he was more than happy to be done with all of it. Now it was time to focus on what was next.
Stella’s well-deserved vacation with them at her side. Time in Puerto Rico, on the beach, keeping her company as she relaxed and let the world of glitz and glamour disappear. The sweetest, most agonizing torture of his life. Seeing her at ease, in her element, but not being able to touch her.
“Alright,” Simon said, closing the kitchen door and locking it behind him. “Dove.”
“Yes?” her voice was soft, scared. John could see the tension coiled in her shoulders, whatever had transpired between her and Simon had her ready to snap.
“How much did you overthink it in the car?”
“The whole time,” she answered, swallowing nervously. “I don’t know what it means.”
“Then I’ll spell it out for you,” Simon said firmly. Carefully, he reached out toward her, relief taking over when she didn’t pull away. With a gentle hand, he grasped her jaw and brought her eyes to meet his. “I. Want. You.”
“What?” Stella whispered; her breath caught in her throat. “Why?”
“You really don’t know how wonderful you are, do you?”
“But I’m not,” she argued. “No guy has ever wanted me enough to –” Simon brought his lips to hers, cutting her off mid-sentence. She was used to words, pretty lies that danced around her ears, creating grand illusions of what it meant to be wanted. But this kiss, this fire felt realer than anything else. His hands cradled her face as he gently brushed his mouth against hers, doing what his words could not.
John watched, entranced as her eyes fluttered closed. A broken sigh escaped her lips as her hands clutched the lapels of Simon’s tux, clinging to him for dear life. The former captain remained frozen; feet planted firmly on the ground as he debated leaving. He yearned for the pair before him, craved them as much as he needed his next breath. There was no way he was leaving unless they asked him to.
“You kiss like a dream,” Simon whispered onto her lips. “John,” Simon panted, his voice hoarse as he pulled away. “Show her,” he instructed.
“Wait, what?” Stella gasped, as she came back to her senses. Her brown eyes opened wide in surprise as she was turned to meet the blue-eyed captain’s heated gaze.
“I want you, both,” he admitted. He caught the former lieutenant’s answering smirk, relieved at the confirmation that those feelings were returned. Stella was a different story.
“You want me? And Simon?”
“Yes, but tonight it’s all about you,” John muttered, brushing his fingers across her cheek. “Look at me, beautiful,” he requested softly. Shyly, she met his gaze, heat pooling down in her core at the desire in John’s eyes. It was as intense as Simon’s. “Gods, that dress has been drivin’ me wild all night,” he growled, threading his fingers through her hair. “I want to show you how much I want you. Will you let me?”
“Yes,” Stella answered quickly.
“Good girl,” John muttered, bringing his lips toward hers. Her fingers gripped his shirt, lost in the feeling of his lips. There was no hesitation in the way he held her, pulling her closer. Simon walked up to them, steps measured as he brushed her hair aside and kissed her shoulder. Stella pulled away from John’s lips, sighing contently.
“How are you feeling?” Simon checked in.
“Like I’m living out one of my bedtime fantasies,” she whispered. Their gazes darkened further, eager to please.
“Good thing tonight is all about you, then,” he said, burying his nose in the crook of her neck and shoulder. “This perfume is my favorite.”
“Mine, too,” John agreed. “I’ll go triple check the interior. You takin’ her upstairs?”
“Yes,” Simon answered, sliding an arm around her stomach. “We’ll see you there but before you go,” he continued, meeting his partner’s gaze. John smiled, leaning in and meeting his lips in a soft kiss before pulling back. “Thank you.”
“I’ll be quick,” he said, swiftly walking away to check the inside of the home for any signs of her stalker.
“Come on, goddess, let’s get you comfortable,” Simon said softly, turning her around to face him.
“This is really happening?”
“Yes, it is,” he assured her. Her hand found his, lacing their fingers together. Simon closed his eyes as he brought their hands over his heart, brushing a soft kiss to her fingers. The gesture was tender, and he felt his heart beat faster as Stella squeezed his hand in return. “I want you to remember one thing,” he started. “You’re in control. The moment you’re not enjoying yourself, say so and everything stops. Are we clear?”
“Yes,” Stella answered. “Crystal clear.”
“Good. Come on,” Simon said, carefully leading her up to the primary bedroom. The house was quiet, lights being turned off as John checked every room. Anticipation heightened all of her senses as they slowly made their way up to her room. Each step made her heart race faster as her mind ran wild with all of the ways tonight could go right. There was still the little voice in her head that kept saying this was all a ruse, but their actions kept speaking louder than her doubts.
They reached the top of the stairs, and he couldn’t wait any longer. A surprised squeak escaped her as Simon lifted her up into his arms, carrying her. He wanted to take his time, worship her, savor her. Stella deserved that and more. “I can’t wait to get my hands on you,” he promised as they finally crossed the threshold into her room. “What don’t you like?” he asked as he slowly set her down on her feet.
“Degradation. I-”
“You don’t need to explain. Let’s get you out of these blasted shoes and comfortable.” His voice was soft, matching the pace of his hands as he carefully knelt down to help undo her strappy heels.
“Simon, you don’t –”
“Actions speak louder than words, sweetheart, now keep telling me what you like or what you don’t like,” he said firmly, his large, calloused hands somehow making quick work of the tiny buckles.
“I hate edging. Please don’t build me up and then make me start over,” she started. “I don’t like a lot of pain play. Spanking occasionally is okay, but I prefer being grabbed. Not enough to bruise because-”
“We know the why, angel,” John said as he stepped into the room. “Our touch will always be gentle with you unless you want more.” His shirt was undone, looking disheveled and all the more real. The mask he always kept in place, the composed head officer of her security detail, was gone; the vulnerable man beneath that normally stoic exterior continued further into her room. Brows relaxed, shoulders slack, and wanton need in his gaze.
“You’re ours until the moment you decide you’re not,” Simon added, standing at his full height. “You’ve got the zipper?”
“Yes,” John answered, his voice husky. “Now it’s time to unwrap our present.”
“Fuck,” Stella whispered.
“You alright?”
“Yeah. I’m just very, very, nervous right now.”
“Why?” Simon asked as John carefully lowered the zipper to her forest green dress.
“Because I’m worried you will rethink this once you-”
“Bloody hell,” John whispered, tracing the curve of her spine. Stella shivered under his touch as Simon carefully eased the gown off her shoulders.
“Stella, you’re the woman of our dreams,” he said softly. “There is nothing for us to rethink.” John carefully continued to slide the outfit off her curvy form. The brush of his hands against her skin was tender, reverent, as he tried to convey just how much he admired her with his touch. As her dress pooled across her feet, her breath caught in her throat. The fire in Simon’s gaze rendered the insecure words in her throat useless. “Remember, you’re in charge. Be vocal. Tell us when something doesn’t feel right or if you want us to stop altogether.”
“Your comfort is our utmost priority,” John affirmed.
“Wow,” she whispered. “I’m…speechless.” Simon grinned as he stepped closer, capturing her lips in a sweet kiss. Her lips were soft against his, each brush sweet and affectionate as they showed more of his devotion than his words could ever express. Stella threaded her fingers into his hair, humming contently as she kissed him back. John stepped up behind her, brushing her hair aside and joining in. He leaned in, brushing his lips against her neck. The brunette melted into their attention, sighing as they led her to the bed.
Simon pulled away from her lips and let John take over for a moment. The former captain kissed his way up to her ear before turning her around and crashing his lips against hers. His cock was already straining against his dress pants but that didn’t matter as much as the view before him. The two people he adored the most in this world ravishing each other. The stupid tie took forever to come undone before he finally tossed it over his head and threw his jacket somewhere else. All he wanted was to join the pair on Stella’s bed and shower her with the attention and care she deserved.
“Those bloody sounds,” John muttered, pulling away from her lips and kissing down her jawline. “I love that we can hear how happy we make you.”
“I do, too,” Simon said as he climbed onto the bed to join them. He grinned at the sight of her flushed cheeks, and the content look in her eyes. “We’re goin’ to make a mess out of you.”
“Oh, God,” she whispered. John chuckled, nuzzling her neck.
“I think she likes the sounds of our voices,” he teased. “Is that right, angel?”
“Yes,” she answered, gasping as John reached around to unhook her bra. Much like every other item of clothing, that ended up being tossed away.
“She’s being so good for us,” Simon said, slowly kissing his way up her calves. “Don’t hold back any of your sounds, we want to hear you,” he encouraged, his gaze drifting from the trembling brunette to John. He was so meticulous with his affection, planting soft kisses on her pulse point as he cradled her head carefully.
“How do you feel?” he checked in, kissing her collarbone before placing more gentle pecks down the valley of her breasts.
“Really good,” she answered. “The more you keep talking, the less I’m in my own head.” Her admission washed over the pair, renewing their resolve to make sure she had the night of her life.
“Such a good girl,” Simon praised, nipping at her thigh. “You get a reward for being honest.”
“Really?”
“Yes,” he assured her, hooking his fingers in the hem of her underwear. Instead of teasing her, as he’d planned, they were quickly discarded. A rumble of satisfaction escaped Simon’s lips as he noticed her slick folds. “You’re so wet for us already, goddess,” he murmured, kissing and nipping his way up her thighs. Each teasing kiss bringing him closer and closer to the apex of her thighs. Simon growled in approval as he ran his fingers over her slit, licking one clean before offering the other to John. Stella opened her eyes once she felt John’s mouth leave her skin and was entranced at the sight of him licking Simon’s finger clean.
“You first, I’m enjoying the view up here quite a bit,” John murmured, softly squeezing her breast. A heady whimper escaped her lips as she met those icy blue eyes once more. There was a warmth to his eyes that took her breath away. In the months he’d been working for her, all she’d wanted was a peek at the man within. Now that she had a full view of his heart, all Stella wanted was to keep it for herself.
He and Simon were ruining her for any other, and she didn’t care. Simon grinned at the way John and Stella looked at each other, knowing that there was no way he’d go back to the way things were before. Everything he ever wanted in his life was in this room, and he was determined to show them the love they both deserved.
With Stella distracted, he slowly took off his dress pants. A sigh of relief escaped his lips as his pants finally dropped to the carpeted floor, his hardened cock leaving a marked silhouette on his underwear. Quickly, he slid them off crawling back onto the bed and planting gentle kisses on her upper thighs. The adoration and disbelief in her eyes warmed his heart. Simon knew he would spend the rest of his life reminding her that she was more than enough.
The startled gasp that escaped her throat was music to his ears as he gave her slick folds a teasing lick. She chased after the contact, whimpering in relief when Simon finally dove into her aching cunt. It didn’t take long for him to learn what she liked, slowly building her up further and further. “That’s it, angel,” John encouraged the trembling starlet as her moans and sighs got higher. “Let us hear you,” he murmured, taking a stiff peak into his mouth.
Stella’s body trembled beneath their combined efforts until the coil in her finally snapped. Her first orgasm came through with a soft whine. Simon eased the pressure on her clit, eager to do it all over again. John brushed a soft kiss to her temple before taking a moment to admire her.
“What a sight,” Simon murmured. “You alright to keep going?”
“Please,” she begged softly. “I want more.”
“We’ll give you as much as you can handle tonight, beautiful,” he said, circling his fingers around her entrance. “You’re so wet for us already. I can’t wait to feel you wrapped around me.” The already gravelly tone got even deeper as he slowed eased a finger into her wet heat. Stella gasped, her hips swiftly moving as she continued to seek for more of him. “Do you want more?”
“Yes!” she cried enthusiastically. John grinned as he slowly traced a path down her stomach before finding her clit. “Oh God,” she gasped as Simon inserted a second finger inside of her.
“That’s it,” John muttered, grasping her neck and angling her to meet his eyes. “Take everything we’re about to give you. It’s yours.” Just like our hearts, he finished in his thoughts. The view was better than any of his late-night sex dreams, she was radiant as they pleasured her. Their combined efforts brought her to her peak even faster the second time around as she came once more with an even louder cry.
“Please, Simon, John,” Stella pleaded. “Please, I-”
“We’ve got you,” Simon said softly, easing his fingers out of her. John stopped applying pressure on her clit and glanced at his partner to see him eagerly poised to enter her. Stella reached out, grasping his hand and lacing their fingers together. She pulled him closer before slowly reaching out to undo his pants.
“You’re still the only one dressed,” she murmured.
“I’ve got it, I’ll be right there,” he said softly, sliding out of the bed and undressing. He watched as Simon slowly pushed inside her. Stella’s content sigh filled the room as soon as he was fully seated in her warmth.
“Fuckin’ hell,” Simon muttered. “Look at you. So beautiful. Like you were made for us,” he leaned over, brushing his lips against her pulse point as he eased in and out her in slow, languid strokes. John slowly climbed back onto the bed, his cock straining at the sight of his partner slowly making love to her.
Her soft cries filled the room once more, each heady and blissful whimper bringing him closer and closer to the edge. Simon slowly angled her face toward him, giving John the perfect view of her pleasure-filled face as she was wound up higher and higher once more. Her hands found him, gentle caresses as Stella explored the scarred skin until she found her aim.
“Fuck,” John hissed as her fingers wrapped around his hardened length. “Sweetheart, tonight –”
“John,” her broken moan caught him off guard and it took him a moment for him to realize that she needed this. Their lively star wanted to give as much as she was receiving. He groaned as she managed to pump his shaft, her flexing with each thrust of Simon’s cock into her soaking cunt.
“You’re taking me so well, dove. I can’t wait to see how you take John’s cock,” Simon growled into her skin as he picked up the pace, thrusting into her faster.
“You’re bein’ such a good princess for us,” John praised, stained as he tried to keep himself together for them. Stella came with a loud cry, screaming Simon’s name as he grunted out his own release. Her body shook with the aftershocks of her release, her grip on his cock slackening. “You’re so beautiful when you cum, angel,” he said softly.
“Fuck!” she gasped as her back arched off the bed. Simon watched her, entranced as that surprise orgasm caused her to clench tightly around him once more. He gave her a few minutes, watching her catch her breath in a blissful silence.
“How are you feeling?”
“I…I think I can take one more,” she breathed out.
“Well look at her,” Simon teased, brushing a soft kiss to her temple. “Our girl is greedy for us.”
“Yes,” she agreed, glancing at John. “Please. I want to feel you, too.” The soft look in her eyes affirmed John of one thing.
After her, there was no other client. No other job. It was her, him, and Simon.
That’s all he needed for the rest of his life.
“Anything you want, angel,” John said as he came back to the present moment. Simon grunted softly as he slid out of her, some of his spend spilling onto the bedsheets. “We’re goin’ to make a proper mess out of you,” he continued, watching as Simon poised himself next to her. “You two make a beautiful picture.”
“And you make it complete,” Simon said soft as John slowly shifted to position himself between Stella’s legs. Carefully, he worked his way into her, groaning at how wonderful it felt to have her heat squeezing his cock.
“I’m not goin’ to last,” he grunted out as he slowly started to move. Each thrust was measured, Simon’s fingers finding her overstimulated bundle of nerves. It wasn’t long until Stella was whimpering and writhing beneath him, Simon swallowing up some of her cries with soft kisses and tender praises.
“You’re taking him so well,” he crooned onto her lips as her pussy clenched around John’s aching cock.
“Stella, you’re –” John groaned as her cunt continued to spasm around him. Her cries grew louder until she came with another shattering cry. Stella’s orgasm spurred his own, the former captain groaning loudly as he spilled into her. “Fuckin’ hell. You’re incredible, sweetheart,” he praised, barely holding himself up above her.
“How are you feeling?” Simon asked.
“So good,” she murmured. “But I can’t do more,” she whimpered.
“We know. You’re about to fall asleep on us, aren’t you?”
“Maybe.” Her voice was softer now, sleep creeping into her veins.
“We need to clean you up,” John said as he finally found his words.
“Fine,” she huffed defiantly in her half-asleep state. “Carry me then.”
“With pleasure,” he grinned, grunting softly as he pulled out of her.
“You give her a bath and I’ll take care of the bed,” Simon instructed. John nodded and they started working through it as a team. Gently, he scooped the brunette into his arms as his partner took care of the rest.
In just a few minutes, the bed was made, and they were all showered. The trio were all settled onto the plush mattress in a tangled mess of limbs and blankets. John played with Stella’s hair as she slowly drifted off between them. Earlier he was in heaven, and now he was in paradise. Basking in the afterglow of their encounter, cuddling and soaking up as much of each other as they could to kick off Stella’s vacation.
“How did this all start?” he asked softly.
“I kissed her under the mistletoe.”
“Really?”
“Emily’s fault.”
“Of course it is.”
“I’m no longer going to kill her,” Stella muttered in her sleep. John and Simon chuckled, sharing a soft kiss before settling into bed.
“Us either,” Simon said softly. “We’ve finally got you.”
Chapter 5: Gift Wrapping Skills
Summary:
It's Simon's first Christmas since he and Stella got together, and he's struggling to wrap some presents. Stella comes in and they have a small heart to heart where they remember things don't have to be perfect.
Notes:
Number 5!
I hope you guys are enjoying these little glimpses and what ifs as much as I've been enjoying writing them.
Thank you for the kudos and the comments. I love every single one of you.
Today's includes another peek at Simon and Stella where they end up getting together first.
Also, prepare for a wee bit of emotional whiplash at the end.
OKAY BYE! SEE YOU TOMORROW.
Chapter Text
It’d been a mostly quiet afternoon. Stella had been spending most of the day working out the dessert menu she wanted to have for their holiday gathering. Emily was hosting at her apartment again, and this time they were going to have more people than they did at their Friendsgiving. Soap had mentioned wanting to invite their former handler Kate, her wife, and their friends Alejandro and Rodolfo from the Mexican Special Forces.
It was going to be a large gathering, and she wanted to make sure to have a few varieties of dessert for everyone. Cupcakes seemed to be the best option since she had a bunch of flavors to work with.
“Bloody hell!” a loud curse startled her from her planning. She slid her chair back, slowly leaving the room and heading toward the living room. She could hear him still muttering under his breath, complaining about something being ‘too ruddy difficult.’
“Hey,” Stella said as she stepped into the living room. Simon was cursing, scrambling to hide the box in his hands. “Am I interrupting?”
“Sorry,” he sighed, defeated. “I’m…not good at this.”
“What are you trying to do?”
“Wrap one of your presents,” he admitted reluctantly. “I can’t do this shite.”
“Yes, you can,” Stella said, slowly making her way over. “Do you think I was born a good present wrapper?”
“Yes.”
“Please. Most times I just toss a gift in a bag with some tissue and call it a day,” she admitted, taking up the spot next to him on the floor. “I can help.”
“Just don’t look at what’s inside.”
“I wasn’t gonna,” she reassured him, squeezing his knee. “Now make some room, I’m gonna sit on your lap and walk you through it.”
“You sure?”
“Yeah, it’s a little tough but you’ll get the hang of it quick.”
“I want it to be perfect.”
“Don’t fuss too much over that.”
“But look at your corners!” Simon said, exasperated as he pointed out the boxes already under the tree. “They’re so precise.”
“And I have the papercuts to prove it,” she admitted with a sheepish blush. His heart fluttered in his chest, and it took him a moment to recognize what it was. Aside from her perfectionism, there was more of her care hiding in the wings. The little things she would do that always went unspoken.
“You’ve been fussing about making this Christmas perfect, haven’t you?” he called her out, narrowing his gaze.
“…Yeah,” she admitted. “I know you haven’t had the best holidays, and I wanted you to have something special for your first Christmas with me as your girlfriend,” Stella said softly. “So, aside from probably buying too much stuff for Christmas and Reyes, I’ve been fussing about making sure each present is wrapped perfectly.”
“You have all of my presents, including Reyes?”
“Yeah.”
“Bloody hell,” Simon said softly. He ignored the present he was wrapping and pulled her onto his lap. A shocked squeal escaped her lips at the sudden movement, soon followed by a content sigh as his strong arms held her close. “You really are the sweetest fuckin’ thing on this planet, aren’t you?”
“I might believe you one of these days.”
“Oh, I’ll make a believer out of you.”
“Really?”
“Just like you’ve been doin’ for me,” he said softly, kissing her forehead. Her content hum soothed his tension as she leaned into him. “I love you,” he murmured, happy as Stella rested her head against his shoulder for a moment.
“I love you, osito,” she said softly, brushing her lips tenderly against his neck. “Want to try wrapping this present with my help?”
“Yeah.”
“Okay,” Stella spoke softly, carefully shifting so she could sit on his lap. He adjusted, making sure there was room for them both on the floor before carefully listening to her careful instruction. She was precise with her movements, showing the former soldier how to wrap the box carefully. The corners and the sides were the hardest part for him to learn, but with her gracious patience, Simon was managing better with her assistance. “Good job,” she beamed as she sat back.
“I could’ve done something better with that corner. Maybe like cut some of the excess paper off.”
“You did really good, don’t sell yourself short,” she said, looking over her shoulder at him. “It takes practice. I was shit when I wrapped my first presents too.”
“I can’t even imagine that.”
“Okay you know what? I’m going to do you one better. I’m going to share something really embarrassing about myself.”
“Go for it.”
“Up until late high school? I had to ask my mom to put contact paper on my books.”
“Wait, really?”
“Yeah, I was really bad at it! I always cut it too short, too long, or worse.”
“Stella, what could be worse than that?”
“Bubbles,” she groaned, moving back until she rested her head on his shoulder again. “I hated bubbles on my books. I would spend almost every period moving it around to try and pop it.”
“Why not use your pencil?”
“Because it would leave a hole and then I would pick at it until the cover came off. And if it was a paperback workbook?! Oh my god,” she groaned again. Simon chuckled, wrapping his arms around her stomach and burying his face in the crook of her neck and shoulder. This was more than he could’ve ever asked for.
“Thank you.”
“For what?”
“Reminding me it’s okay to human.”
“Same to you.”
“When did I do that?”
“When you called me out for trying to make this Christmas perfect,” Stella said softly, pulling back and turning herself around to face him. The sheepish blush was adorable, and Simon loved seeing it. He carefully reached out, brushing his thumb gently across her freckled check. She grunted happily, her nose scrunching up slightly.
“You know I don’t need Christmas to be perfect, right?”
“It’s nice to have the reminder,” she admitted. “You can keep practicing wrapping presents if you want, I’ll duck into my room and catch up on my Christmas reading.”
“I’ll try a couple more now that I’ve got your tips.”
“If you want some gift bags and tissue, let me know. I have too much of those.”
“Do you?”
“Yeah, I tend to recycle gift bags if they’re in good condition. Funnily enough, there was a gift bag that kept bouncing around in my family for a while.”
“You’re kidding,” Simon said, shaking his head.
“I wish I was. It was uh, a cute one. That’s what I remember. My tía and my mom had a back and forth with it. It’d come home with me one birthday, and then it’d go back to my aunt for Christmas or something like that. Then it came back to my mom on Mother’s Day.”
“You’re kiddin’.”
“I wish I was. I actually was the recipient of that gift bag just a few weeks later for my birthday before mom stored it. I loved that little gag so much that I ended up buying one a few years ago. Rose, Em, and I have been passing it around since then. I think I have it now,” Stella explained.
“Why in the world?”
“It’s a nice gift bag!!” Stella persisted, getting up. “Let me show you,” she said, disappearing down the hall. After a few minutes of rummaging, she came back, a sturdy multi-colored polka-dot bag in her hands. “See for yourself,” she said, handing the bag over to him. Simon tested the material, noting how soft and durable it was.
“How long have you had this?”
“Uh, going on two years now. I first gave it to Emily, and then she gave it back on my birthday. And then I gave it back to her,” she giggled. “And she gave it to Rose for her birthday before I got it back on our girls’ night in for Halloween later that year.”
“You’re going to keep using the bag until it falls apart.”
“Hey, at least it’s not a suntanning Santa,” she laughed.
“Oh, bloody hell,” Simon groaned. “Why do I feel like there’s a story behind that one.”
“There isn’t. I saw that one while shopping the other day. Not everything I tell you has a story.”
“I do like hearing them,” he said softly. Simon’s smile widened as he saw the blush deepening across her cheeks.
“I…I appreciate that,” she said softly. “Do you want some space to wrap in peace?”
“Yeah, if you don’t mind.”
“Not at all. If you need more help, I’m in our room.”
“Thanks,” Simon said softly. “I love you.”
“I love you,” she said softly, blowing him a kiss before retreating down the hall. He grinned watching her go, thankful that they were together. As much as he wanted to visit his family, he was going to start living.
Chapter 6: Holiday Photos
Summary:
Gaz, 141, their significant others, and their kids all come to his house to celebrate the holiday on top of getting holiday photos taken.
Notes:
Day 6 is here!
The primary focus couple here is Gaz, his partners Sean and David(introduced in The Assistant) and their big family as they all meet up and get ready to have their family portrait taken.
I also have to give 661ave a shout out for her suggestion she made to me on her latest render. (If you're subbed to her Patreon, you know exactly which one I'm talking about)
It was the cherry on top of everything I was thinking about for this one shot.
Chapter Text
Kyle glanced around the house, taking in the chaos. There was a growing pile of presents under the tree that the kids were eager to dive into but thanks his creative storytelling, the kids who still believed in Santa knew not to touch them until the 25th. That in order for Santa to make his deliveries all over the world, he would send elves in advance with their presents.
“Dad!” cried out Lucas, running over with a wagon full of presents stacked a few feet tall. “Aunty Stella said these are our presents!”
Bloody hell, Stella, what did you do? Kyle thought as she walked through the door. He grinned, watching as John and Simon followed her up the steps. John was sporting a baby carrier while Simon was cradling a large cupcake container and a cake.
“Kyle!” she greeted, hugging her friend. “Did Lucas come in?”
“Yeah, he came in with a wagon,” he said, raising an eyebrow.
“I have presents in there for any emergency placements you get in the next few weeks up until Reyes,” she explained with a grin. “I gotta spoil all of my niblings. Including the ones who are only here for a small amount of time.”
“Thank you,” he said softly as he pulled back. “We just got a teenager the other night. Emergency removal. She’s still adjusting.”
“There’s something there for her. The nameless presents have a strip of tape with their age range and what they are. You can just use the empty name tag and put her name on it.”
“You’re the best,” Sean said as he came over to greet her. “Our budget ran tight with presents this year because we wanted to make sure our self-care kits were all stocked up.”
“We’ve got you, always,” John beamed as he reached them. Aria, their little bundle of joy was barely 8 months old. She was contently nuzzling her father’s chest as she fought off a nap. Her blue eyes blinked sleepily as he kissed her head before he turned his focus back to the Kyle and Sean.
“Thank you for everything you all do for us. Truly.”
“I’m going to the kitchen to drop these off,” Simon chimed in.
“I’m going with you,” Stella said, walking off to help him. John patted Gaz on the shoulder, beaming at him.
“How does it feel to have such a big family?”
“I bloody love it cap’n,” Kyle said as he looked around the foyer. It was covered in photos of all of their children over the last eight years. Some had aged out of the system, but they never forgot their home. “We’ve been thinkin’ about adoptin’ more.”
“Really?” John asked as they started toward the living room. David was trying to keep the kids under control, all of them fawning over the ever-growing stack of presents.
“Yes, a set of twins. The mother came to us because she heard about us from Lucas’s mum,” Kyle explained. John nodded, recalling the story of how the trio had come to welcome their first child. He was a lively eight-year-old now, running circles around his younger cousins. John MacTavish Junior was his accomplice, always running behind him whenever they were together.
“When’s she due?”
“Any day now,” Kyle answered, nervous. “How’s Aria been treating you three?”
“MacTavish keeps complainin’ that we got lucky,” Simon said as he held out two mugs of tea. “She sleeps through the night.”
“I can see why he would say that, but he also ended up having twins himself,” he remarked. “Jr’s the spittin’ image of him. And Isa’s got his nose.”
“John says she doesn’t, but I’m with you on that,” John agreed.
“We’re here!” Laura chimed in, carrying a large bag with her. After her wedding and everything that happened, Stella had been meeting up with her more, and the group welcomed her and her husband with open arms. She’d been taking photos off and on for them for years. This time around, on top of celebrating the holiday, she’d agreed to take the latest portrait of Kyle’s family.
They were at this point five kids in with one foster, not counting the countless others that had come through in their care.
“Dads!” cried a voice from the front door. Nicola walked in with her partner, Teia. She’d been placed with Sean, David, and Kyle when she was just 13 and after a rough adjustment, embraced her forever family. Kyle grinned at the sight of her, setting his mug of tea aside and hugging her.
“Look at you!” he groaned, giving her a tight hug.
“You remember Teia,” Nicola said softly.
“Yes, I do. Welcome back,” he said, giving her a warm hug as well.
“Thank you,” she said softly, taking in the crowded house. “Wow, everyone came today?”
“They did,” David grinned, quickly hugging the pair. “I’m so glad you came, sweetie. There’s more than enough food for everyone.”
“Did auntie Stella make dessert?”
“Yes, I did!” her voice cried out from somewhere.
“Oh, my god,” Nicola said with a squeal. “She’s so good at baking. I can’t wait for you to try it.”
“Wait, is that Nicola? Chiquita!” Stella cried, darting across the room and hugging her.
“I’m so sorry we’re late,” Emily’s voice chimed in as she arrived. “The twins were restless, and they were hard to get into their booster seats and –”
“I’m going to be a big brother!” John Jr announced suddenly. The room suddenly fell quiet, all eyes turning toward the arriving pair.
“Steamin’ bloody Jesus,” Soap cursed under his breath.
“Wait, seriously?” Rose asked, as she and Farah walked into the living room.
“Yes,” Emily said, a little breathlessly. “I was hoping to have a little longer before I said anything but evidently,” she said, shaking her head.
“Babies all around!” Alex cheered, holding onto Safiya. She was his and Farah’s second, a vibrant seven-year-old who was always hanging around Isa. Unlike her brother, Barry, who thought he was too cool to hang out with kids now that he was eleven.
“When are you due?” Farah asked.
“June,” Emily answered. “So thankfully I won’t have the belly all summer,” she sighed as the door closed behind her. “Are we all here?”
“I think so,” Kate said, looking around the room. “Oh, hello Isa,” she beamed as the five-year-old tugged at her pants.
“Titi Kate!” she cried gleefully before hugging her leg.
“I thought you said Nik was-”
“Uncle Nik is right here,” his voice boomed, carrying Lucas on his back. “Someone asked for a piggyback ride.”
“Me next!” John Jr. cried.
The house was a revelry of hugs, kisses, greetings, and smiles. Everyone was catching up with each other, the love for their family filling up the space. There was so much warmth in the house that Kyle took a moment to smile adoringly at the entire view. He loved his partners, all of his kids, and couldn’t wait to grow his family further. All of the things he had a hard time envisioning years ago were coming to fruition and he couldn’t help but feel proud of himself and at how far he’d come.
At how far the team had all come.
“Hey,” Sean said, nudging him playfully on the shoulder. “You alright?”
“Yes, snuggles,” he beamed. Sean’s cheeks flushed slightly, loving the sound of that word coming from Kyle’s lips. “I’m…proud,” he admitted. “Of our family, our kids, seein’ Nicola back again.”
“I am, too. I can’t wait for our two new ones.”
“Me either,” David said, wrapping his arms around his partners and bringing them into a tight hug.
“Okay,” Laura started, using her photographer voice. “Clan Garrick! In front of the tree! Dads in the middle.”
“That’s our cue,” Kyle said as they all slowly made their way to the large fir tree. Nicola was quick to stand beside her dads, smiling as her adopted siblings slowly joined. “Wait, where’s Lucas?” Kyle asked.
“I’m here!” he cried, running around while making whirring noises. “Uncle Nik gave me a toy helicopter!”
Bloody hell, he thought, sighing as Lucas joined the group photo. Laura carefully positioned them all now once together, carefully snapping pictures as they all grinned at the camera. The loud chirp of Kyle’s phone interrupted the moment, prompting them all to put a pause on their photography. “Sorry,” he apologized, pulling out his phone from his pocket. “Hello?” he answered, looking away nervously. “Yes, we’ll be right there. Yes. Yes! Just give us a few minutes. See you there.”
“Kyle?” Laura asked, concerned
“The twins, they’re coming,” he said, looking over at Sean and David. “Selena went into labor.”
“Oh my god,” Sean whispered. “We need to go to the hospital.”
“Who will stay with the kids?” David asked.
“We’ve got it,” Kate said softly. “Go!” Kyle nodded as he and his partners exchanged soft words and hugs amongst each other. They were elated that their family was now two members bigger. More blessings and more love to give. All of their children squealed and hugged their parents, celebrating their new siblings.
“We’ll drive you,” Laura’s husband, Carlos offered.
“You don’t mind?” Sean asked.
“Not at all, come on,” he said grabbing his keys out of his pockets.
“We’ll be back soon, we just want to –”
“It’s alright, we’ve got it!” John assured them. “Go!” Kyle nodded as he, Sean, and David followed after Carlos. Laura and Stella exchanged a knowing look as she followed after her husband, camera at the ready.
Clan Garrick got a lot of photos that day, including the one that ended up being framed and hung in the center of the living room’s photo display.
A picture of Kyle, Sean, and David being hugged by their kids as they celebrated the two new members of their family.
Chapter 7: Seasonal Holiday Drinks
Summary:
Simon's invited to Stella's and the girl's version of 'girl's night.'
A cozy readathon with snacks, drinks, and some quiet reading time.
Until a buzzed Emily brings up something she's worried about.
Notes:
In my current WIPs I have something like this but without Simon. (You'll understand that when we get there)
Stella and the girls normally have readathons or girls nights like this because they know their best friend doesn't do parties. And this often times ends up being more fulfilling than a brunch for them.
I hope you enjoy!
Translations at the end.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Stella grinned up at Simon, squeezing his hand as they waited for Emily to open the front door to her apartment. It was their first Christmas readathon together. After meeting Simon during their Friendsgiving lunch, the plans for this event kicked into full swing. As soon as Emily heard that Simon also read romance novels, he was immediately invited to their holiday reading binge. He was carrying Stella’s large tote bag, sporting more than enough books for everyone.
“You’re nervous,” Stella said softly, squeezing his hand.
“A bit,” he admitted. “You keep saying Emily and Rose like me, but I still worry that they might-”
“Sweetie, you’ve been invited to a readathon, that’s a good sign,” she assured him, leaning into his arm.
“Really?”
“Yes, and you also spent hours are the bookstore finding reading material for all of us.”
“Thank you for checkin’ what manga series Rose has read. Made things much easier.”
“Of course, I’m still surprised she hasn’t read Ouran,” Stella said as the door to Emily’s apartment finally opened.
“You’re here,” Emily greeted softly. “Welcome!”
“I’ve got some stuff in here for all of us if you don’t mind,” Simon said, showing her the large bag.
“Oh? We’ll let’s see it! I’ve got the living room all set up for us,” she said, stepping aside so Simon and Stella could walk in. Similarly to how they usually had their readathons, there was the air mattress in the living room along with a side table full of snacks and a warming tray he quickly recognized from a few weeks back. “I’ve got some hot chocolate, some spiced tea recipe I found that says it’s really good for Simon, and spiked mulled cider for Rose and me since I know you both don’t particularly drink.”
Simon smiled at his beloved’s friends, touched that they went the extra mile to make him something. It was unexpected, but the warm feeling in his chest returned as he realized he was building something new here with this group of friends. These girls were welcoming with open arms, just like the team had.
This time, he wasn’t too stubborn to see it. Now, he was welcoming it.
“Thank you,” Simon said softly, setting the bag on the couch. He pulled out three nearly identical stacks of novels, handing one to Emily.
“Oh! Thank you,” she said, shocked as she looked at the first title. “This is the new Lauren book! You got copies for all of us?”
“I did,” he grinned.
“Oh, and you got me Natalie’s new book!” she squealed.
“You’re going to love it. Dove and I spent the whole weekend diving into it when I got them for us.”
“At this point, you’re gonna have nothing for me for Christmas.”
“You’d be surprised,” Stella said, giggling.
“Oh, and of course, a Christmas…this is Clio!”
“Yeah, Dove told me you two have read the whole series up until now. Thought you two could get a seasonal read in together. I have the whole series on my e-reader but I will be reading the Laruen book with you two.”
“Oh, my god, yes!” Emily cried.
“Rose,” Simon started, digging into his bag and pulling out another stack of books. “I got you two shojo volumes and two volumes of a series Stella said you’d been meaning to read,” he explained.
“You got me Ouran and Black Cat. Thank you,” she said softly, looking through the manga volumes with a soft smile. Stella leaned into him, happy that things were going well. She’d barely been able to mask her own nerves but put on the bravest face imaginable since she knew how much it mattered to Simon that her friends accepted him.
“How’s Johnny?” he asked, inquiring about Soap. From what he’d heard from the Scot, the pair had been out on at least two dates since they met, but he wanted to hear it from her.
“He’s good. A little upset I didn’t let him come in tonight, but he doesn’t really know what the concept of a readathon is. Even if he were to try with audiobooks, I sometimes like the quiet between the gossiping and reading.”
“He wouldn’t stop complaining about why Simon got the invite, and he didn’t understand until Gaz asked him if he would’ve been able to spend the night quietly hearing a book in the corner,” Stella added, shaking her head.
“Even I know he wouldn’t, and we’ve barely gone out on two dates,” Emily beamed. “It’ll take him some time to learn how to do that and right now, all I want is a night with my girls and get to know Simon in an environment I know will be best.”
“I agree,” Rose said as she poured herself some mulled cider. “To the books, the manga, the booze, and the gossip!”
“Cheers!” Simon said as he poured himself some tea and toasted with her. Stella poured herself some hot chocolate and sprinkled some marshmallows on top before finding her spot on the mattress. She also toasted with Rose and Emily before they all found some place to settle and popped open their first book of the night.
~~
Just a few hours later, Emily and Rose were buzzed and giggly as they kept reading together. There were little exchanges here and there as they talked, mostly basic questions to know him a little better. Simon had told Sullivan earlier that day how nervous he was about the activity, his doctor assuring him that if he ever felt uncomfortable, to use his voice. It wouldn’t be the end of the world if he felt the need to leave early and other little bits to help the retired soldier build is confidence.
“I want to yell at Dahlia,” Emily cried, tucking her bookmark in between the pages.
“Listen, I get where she’s coming from though,” Stella said, capping her highlighter.
“That’s because you read like a speed demon. I literally don’t know how you can read and highlight so fast,” Emily teased her, taking another sip of her freshly refilled cider.
“I ask myself the very same question often enough,” Simon chimed in, looking at how the edges of Stella’s copy had a multitude of flags in all shades of purple and off-white.
“You’re not that far behind her either!” she said, setting her cider aside.
“What page are you at?” Stella asked.
“I’m at 251.”
“I’m at 275,” Simon countered.
“And you?” Emily challenged Stella.
“Uh…” she stalled, blushing. “Four hundred?”
“Carajo mujer.”
“It gets really good!” Stella cried in her defense.
“Okay, you two, chill it,” Rose said, setting her first volume aside and gabbing her second.
“I am chill!” Emily said, leaning back onto her couch. “I have to say something though,” she continued, glancing over to Simon. “You have competition.”
“How so?” he asked, confused.
“Well, I like you. And I’m going to be honest with you,” Emily said, taking another sip of her drink. “I know Stella says you two have known each other a while.”
“Yes, and?”
“Her abuelo died last year. Rose and I couldn’t be there for her. From what we know from Stella, because she’s refused to shed any details, there was this one guy who took care of her the whole time we were away,” Emily answered, sighing.
“Ay dios, did you really have to bring this up to Simon?” Rose asked, rolling her eyes. “Te lo dije que this was something we needed to address with Stella, not him.”
“Pero es que he deserves to know! The last thing I want is Stella breaking his heart because of some pendejo who -”
“Emily, that was me,” Simon cut in. Her jaw dropped as she gaped at him.
“No,” she said in Spanish, sounding almost identical to Stella. “That was you?!”
“Yeah, that was me,” he affirmed, looking over to Rose. She also seemed surprised at the news, glancing over to Stella.
“It was,” she said softly. “He came over to apologize after we had a fight over whether we were friends or not,” Stella continued, tucking her bookmark between the pages. “And he stayed.”
“Holy fucking shit. And you didn’t fall in love with him then?!” Emily cried.
“No, that happened a few months later.”
“And you guys didn’t start dating until recently?”
“I’ve had a lot of hardships, plenty broken friendships and not a lot of romantic ones. If she’d told me before I was ready to see it for myself, I would’ve broken her heart,” he admitted, reaching over and taking Stella’s hand in his. Simon brought it to his lips, brushing a soft kiss against her knuckles. “She brought me back to myself when I didn’t even think there was any left. She waited.”
“To be fair, it feels like we’ve been dating longer,” Stella said.
“She’s right. The more I think about it, the more it feels like we started dating at some point earlier this year,” he admitted. Emily gazed at the pair, processing the current revelations. She’d been eager to probe into their dating story since they barely discussed it over Friendsgiving, and now that she had more of the story, she was relieved that her best friend wasn’t going to have another wrench thrown into her love life.
“Wow,” Rose said softly, grasping her mug with both hands. “I’m even happier for you two now.”
“Really?” Stella asked softly.
“Yeah,” she answered before taking a sip. “Because you have someone who really adores you. I can see it in his eyes. The only reason Emily and I were worried about the guy who took care of you was because the last time you talked about him, you had the same look you have when you talk about Simon. We wanted to be sure that nothing could come in and just…”
“Turn me into a mess like Ricardo would do whenever he came into my life?”
“Pretty much,” Rose said with a shrug.
“He’s not botherin’ her anymore, she blocked him a few months ago.”
“She did!?”
“Yeah,” Stella said, refilling her hot chocolate. “I’d completely forgotten about him until he randomly texted me to tell me he was hoping to visit me the next time he had time off. I had a lot going on at the time with making sure I was the support system that Simon needed while also taking care of my own needs, I didn’t have time to cater to his ego. Didn’t tell him to fuck off, but I did block all of his access to me.”
“Good fucking job!” Emily said, pumping her fist in the air.
“Now, enough about my love life,” she said, glancing at Simon’s mug. “You want tea or chocolate?”
“Hot chocolate if there’s any left,” he answered.
“Just enough.”
“And marshmallows?”
“Of course, osito,” she beamed. “As I was saying,” she continued, preparing his drink. “What about you, Rose?”
“Ugh,” she groaned, throwing her head back. “Listen, don’t get me fucking started. I think I’m just not made for committed relationships.”
“What happened?”
“This latest guy basically just…ugh, no offense, Simon but men suck.”
“None taken, I’m surprised at how much of my shite Stella has put up with until this point,” he said, winking at her. An airy giggle escaped her lips as she handed him his drink, settling beside him on the mattress.
“You’re worth it,” she said softly, kissing his cheek. He blushed, the color reaching his ears. Emily and Rose smiled, certain that their best friend had finally found a person worthy of her. “Now tell us about this pendejo.”
“Oh my god!” Rose cried, throwing her manga aside.
The rest of the night was full of giggles, laughs, more drinking and reading until the girls ended up falling asleep among their locations. Simon glanced around Emily’s dimmed living room, softly playing with Stella’s hair before he gazed up at the ceiling.
“I love you,” Stella murmured, nuzzling his chest.
“I love you, too,” Simon replied softly, kissing her forehead. “Sleep well, dove.”
“You, too,” she sighed, clinging to him tightly. Even though he wasn’t at their apartment, he didn’t find it hard to fall asleep. He was home.
Because home was wherever she was.
Notes:
Ay Dios - Oh God
Te lo dije - I told you
Pero es que - But its just
pendejo - motherfucker
Chapter 8: Choosing/Cutting a Tree
Summary:
Simon's prepared a surprise for Stella at his cabin.
And they end up having a surprise guest.
Notes:
Hey everyone!
Notes at the end for this one but it should be quite obvious it's Simon, Stella, and Price.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
The day was clear. Simon couldn’t wait to show her. He’d grabbed one of the company trucks for this endeavor, but he was more excited for her to see the surprise he’d been working on as a side hobby. He’d bought this place years ago as a safe haven to hide out. It’d been his escape sometimes when coming back from deployment had been too hard. He’d never been able to let the place go. After he’d met Stella, pieces of her started to come back with him. Little notes she’d thrown away, books he’d bought and annotated to read when he didn’t want to by anywhere but the cabin, and so much more.
“I still can’t get over how nice this place is,” Stella said as he pulled up and parked in front of the garage.
“I’m glad you think so, but I think I might end up sellin’ it soon,” he admitted.
“Really? Why?”
“Because I think it’s time we find a beach house for us to visit during the winter,” he said softly, watching how the words settled over her.
“You wanna get a house on the beach?”
“In Puerto Rico,” he added.
“Oh, Simon,” she whispered. “But you like this place.”
“I do, but I also know how much you miss being home for the holidays. A house there will incentivize us to visit.”
“It would.”
“But that’s a few years away from now, I’d think.”
“Yeah, that’s still a bit of a ways away,” she agreed. “Why’d you bring me here? With the truck?”
“There’s something I want to show you,” Simon said as he led her further into the property. He stuffed his gloved hands into his pockets, keeping his eyes on her. “Wait,” he said softly, adjusting her scarf to keep her as bundled up as possible. “There we go. “
“You’re wearing the beanie I got you.”
“I love it,” he grinned, brushing his fingers against the stitched skull design. It’d been years since she’d unexpectedly presented him with the gift. He treated it with care, it was the first Christmas present he’d received since everything had happened with his family. Correction, his first ever ‘Three Kings Day’ present. “Come on, I think you’ll love what I’ve got to show you,” he continued, slowly leading the way deeper into the land. The snow crunched under their steps as they pressed on, the cold weather biting against their exposed skin. Simon stopped for a moment, dipping into the shed before coming back out with a saw and a bag slung over his shoulder.
“What are we doing?”
“You’ll see.”
“How much longer?”
“Not much,” he assured her as they pressed on for a few more minutes. As they made their way closer, his heart raced, worried about whether she’d like the surprise he’d prepared or not. Considering how much she loved celebrating even the smallest moments with him, he was sure she’d like it. Her little stunned gasp as they reached the clearing said it all.
“You’ve been planting trees?!” she squealed, sprinting up to one of them. “They’re so pretty!”
“Yes,” he grinned. “I thought we could pick one and take it home with us.”
“Really?” Her eyes shone brighter than the stars. Simon nodded at her, falling more in love with her than he thought possible. “Our first Christmas in our new home and we get to bring a tree?!”
“Yes.”
“I love it!” Stella cried, wrapping her arms around him. “Thank you.”
“You’re welcome, dove,” he said softly, looking around at his work. “I was thinkin’ we could cut a few up and take them to our friends after we pick ours out,” he explained, pulling out some ribbons form his backpack. “Thought you’d like the honors.”
“Yes!” she squealed. “I can’t believe it. This is amazing. These take years to grow.”
“They do, I’ve been plantin’ seeds every year since before we met. It’s a nice hobby to trim them,” he admitted sheepishly.
“They look so well maintained; would you like to plan out our garden for the backyard?”
“That sounds nice, but I like the studio better.”
“You can do both, you know,” Stella said as she started surveying all the firs.
“True,” Simon agreed. “I just happen to like the idea of making things with my hands more than a garden.”
“Fair enough. You know I’ll support you with whatever you choose.”
“That is never a doubt.”
“I like this one for us,” Stella said softly after a few minutes. “It’s got the bottom high enough where Bowser shouldn’t disturb it too much. There’s a lot of branches and it’s full enough that we don’t need to over do it with the decorations. What do you think?”
Bloody hell, he thought, surprised. “You picked the same one I was thinking when I came to look at them last week.”
“Really?”
“Yeah,” he answered, watching as she tied a black ribbon around a branch. “What color ribbon do you want to use for Emily?”
“Blue. Rose is pink, and I was thinking Clan Garrick should be purple.”
“Lucas’s favorite color.”
“Yeah. Oh! And yellow for Farah and Alex. Can you believe that Safi is almost two now?”
“I sure can,” he said, chuckling.
“Do you think Kate and Liv would want one?”
“If I don’t come back with one for them, Olivia will truly let me have it. She’s counting on it.”
“Copy that,” Stella said, having a thought. “Do you think John would want one?” her voice was soft, pensive as she brought up their friend. They’d been trying to talk to him for weeks now, but he’d been avoiding time alone with the pair more often than not. All they wanted was a chance to tell him how they felt, how much they wanted to be there for him. To date him. To be with him. To love him.
“There you two are!” John exclaimed, starling them both. “I saw the truck, but I didn’t see either of you in the cabin. “
“Oh, we’ve been picking out trees for everyone. I’m just about done,” Stella said, her eyes lighting up again at the sight of him approaching. “Do you want one?”
“Yes, they look incredible. You grew these?” he asked Simon.
“I sure did,” he beamed. “We’re so glad you’re here with us, John.”
“Thank you for the invitation. Now, let’s get to cutting some trees for everyone, shall we?” he said, smiling at the pair. John craved them, loved them, but he knew it was impossible. He’d finally decided that he was going to start spending time with them in small doses again, even if it killed him on the inside. Their company made the darkness in his mind disappear.
And that was worth everything.
Notes:
Was the intention of this to be the prequel before the first one shot of this whole thing? Nope.
Do I still like how it turned out? Yes.
Thank you for being here!
Chapter 9: Family Holiday Tension
Summary:
It's been a year after Stella's kidnapping, the team is celebrating at John's apartment while Soap is engrossed in a very tense game of Jenga.
Notes:
Hey everyone!
While this isn't the official epilogue of The Assistant, this is just a peek into the trio and their friends a year after the fic takes place.
Chapter Text
Everyone had gathered at John’s penthouse apartment to have dinner together. It’d been a long year, and things were finally settling down after the chaos that had transpired the year before. After Stella’s kidnapping during the first ever TF141 Christmas Party, Kate and Price were quite adamant they’d never be doing that again. The idea of such an event was now mostly tainted with the memories of how close they all came to losing someone they all loved. Stella, John, and Simon were doing much better now, especially since Shepherd had been finally brought to justice. And with the addition of Bowser, their home felt complete. Despite all the dog hair.
Now, the Friendsmas Christmas Dinner Party had come to a screeching halt, and everyone was holding their breath. Soap was currently trying to remove a brick from their oversized Jenga tower, using his demolitions expertise into trying to find the best way to make sure it would collapse in the next turn. Somehow, he kept getting outsmarted. Emily had proven herself to be more than a competent player, she was an outright menace.
And he loved her for it.
“Johnny, pull the damn block out,” Simon muttered, sighing.
“At this point I’m going to have to put a timer on,” Stella said, shaking her head.
“Shush, bonnie, I’m concentratin,’” Soap said, finally finding the one he needed to make sure the tower would be uneasy for the next turn. With a gentle push, he was able to the block out at long last. Silence filled the apartment as he slowly set it atop the structure, taking a quick step back to make sure it didn’t fall.
“Puta madre,” she cursed under her breath, looking over to Emily. “You go, I’m not touching that.”
“Fine,” Emily huffed, taking a step forward. Her team had been relying on her for the last few rounds, giving her fiancé a run for his money. “Oh, mi amor,” she said, smirking. “You left an easy one for me.”
“I did no such thing!” Soap argued. They all watched, dumbfounded as Emily managed to pull out another block and set it atop the tower right next to his.
“Steamin’ bloody Jesus. We’re playing Clue after this.”
“Why do you want to play that? You always get angry when you lose!” Rose cried from her seat on the sectional.
“I do not!”
“Soap, the last time we played, you got so heated that Simon got it right on his second turn you asked to look at his sheet to try and figure out if he’d cheated,” Rodolfo said, shaking his head before he took another sip of his drink.
“No one should be able to get it that fast!”
“I get your point, but he does the same thing with John and me. I can count on two hands the time he’s messed up and it’s because I deliberately mess with him,” Stella explained.
“I love that strategy of yours,” Simon smirks. “It keeps me guessin’ every damn time you do it,” he grinned.
“What is it?” Alex asked.
“I’m not telling,” Stella said softly. “Simon knows what it is but I’m not giving any of you my playbook.” Everyone laughed for a moment as they all watched Soap try to pick up another piece to see if he could outsmart his fiancé.
“Is Kate coming?” Emily asked as Bowser settled onto Stella’s lap.
“Yeah, she said she had to make a stop before coming in,” she answered as Soap finally settled on a block to pull. The room fell quiet as tension filled the space once more, everyone watching him carefully. With a still hand, he slowly started pushing a block out. His blue eyes focused entirely on the prize until he finally got it.
“Take that!” he challenged Emily, smirking smugly.
“Okay, I need one of you two to lose already because I am getting hungry,” Alex said, groaning as he got up from the plush couch. He walked over to the in-home bar and poured himself a drink, glancing over to the rest of the group for any requests.
“I’ll take a rum and coke if you could,” Rose requested.
“Gotcha covered.”
“How’s Barry doing?” Kyle asked, looking away from the game of Queen by Midnight that Sean and David were setting up.
“He’s gotten so big already. I can’t believe it’s almost going to be a year soon,” Farah mentioned, giving Alex a glowing smile as he came back with a sparkling water for her.
“Do you have any idea what you want to do for a cake?” Stella asked.
“I’ve been thinking about Bluey. The show calms him down and he really seems to like it. Alex does, too,” she teased.
“I can totally do that.”
“Stella, I can’t ask you for something like that.”
“You’re not asking, I’m offering. I’d love to make the little guy a cake. Especially if we make him one he can smash.”
“Yes!” Alex cheered. “Let the little guy demolish a cake, please,” he pleaded Farah. She laughed, picturing it vividly in her head. The mess would be a lot, but the joy on her husband’s face was going to be worth it.
“Emily, what the fuck are you thinking?” Rose cried. “The tower is going to fall over!”
“No, it’s not! You had a choice and decided to give me your turn, Rose. This is on you.”
“Ugh,” she groaned, watching as her best friend carefully pulled out the brick. The tower wobbled and the tension in the room returned. Everyone held their breath, waiting for it to fall.
It didn’t.
“Shite,” Soap cursed. Emily smirked as she placed it at the top and took a step back. The tower wobbled for a moment but then held again. “There’s only one brick I can think of after and I’m not sure I can do it.”
“If I win, I’m going to have so much fun with you later,” Emily grinned. John’s neck quickly flushed pink, his mind running wild with ideas. He loved it when she got cocky like that. Especially when her voice got breathy, in his ear, at that right pitch where sultry and sweet met and it –
“Johnny, either pull out the brick or I’m settin’ Bowser up to topple the tower,” Simon said, sitting next to Stella and petting him.
“Right,” he sighed, slowly taking step forward toward the structure. Soap’s steely blue gaze remained firmly on the prize as he carefully began moving the wooden block out…
…until the precarious tower toppled over with a crash.
As Soap groaned and the girls cheered, the room breathed a collective sigh of relief that the night could move on.
“Yes! Let’s eat!” Alex cried. “Sean, David, I need you to teach Farah and me how to play Queen by Midnight because from the way you two described it, sounds like something she’d love.”
“We’d be happy to!” David cried with glee. “We’ve been playing with people at the shop, and it’s been a lot of fun.”
“I ran out of stock already. Just put in an order to carry more,” Emily said as she and Soap started cleaning up the mess. Bowser hopped off Stella’s lap and helped, grabbing bricks and carrying them over to the pair. “Stella, wherever you found Bowser, I need to know. Because oh my god.”
“My therapist helped me find a reputable breeder and trainer. We were lucky Bowser was just about to graduate when I found him. He lived with us for a few weeks before he actually got to work.”
“Who taught him how to do that?”
“Simon. He loves teaching him stuff,” Stella answered as Bowser gave Soap the last brick that was across the room before going over to John.
“Good job, Bowser,” he praised, reaching into a nearby cabinet and pulling out a small treat. “Now let’s eat. I’m already hankerin’ for dessert.”
“What did you make for us this time?” Nik asked.
“You’ll have to wait and see. It wasn’t just me this year. Alejandro also contributed.”
“Oh, I can’t wait to try it!” Rose squealed. “He wouldn’t let Rudy and I step into the kitchen while he worked on them.”
“Whatever it is, I’m just glad the ultimate high-stakes Jenga game is over,” Alex said as a chorus of laughter filled the space.
“Me too,” Stella agreed as they all continued toward the dining room. The night had been wonderful so far and she was feeling more and more like herself thanks to the support of her friends and the endless love of her partners.
The worst was finally behind her.
Chapter 10: Snowball Fight
Summary:
The team met up to celebrate Emily and Soap's joint bachelorette at Simon's cabin.
And all hell breaks loose in the backyard.
Notes:
Some more 141 found family fluff shenanigans. I had so much fun writing the chaos in this one.
Enjoy!
Chapter Text
The day started off with cuddles, a hearty breakfast, and exchanging gifts. Simon had been eager to welcome the team to his cabin, having spent the entire night before making sure the area backyard was clear. Stella had gotten desserts done the night before with his and John’s help, an array of cookies, cupcakes, a tres leches cake, and a pecan pie for the occasion.
It wasn’t just Christmas morning; it was also Soap and Emily’s joint bachelor and bachelorette party. They wanted something low-key with their friends. A little mindless fun, some board games, good food, and even better company. It was all they really cared about.
“John? Simon?” Stella asked, looking around the kitchen. The day was blissfully clear, so there wouldn’t be any issues hosting the event after all. It had been her biggest concern for the last week, having a few panic attacks due to the weather patterns changing. It’d taken a lot of coaxing and reminders from John and Simon, but she was finally in a position that ‘whatever happens, happens.’ “Where the fuck are you two?”
“Sorry, angel,” John said as he finally appeared. “Simon and I were getting the fortress ready.”
“Fortress? What the fuck are you two planning?”
“You’ll see,” Simon grinned. Her heart fluttered at the sight of him being so happy on a day like today. It never ceased to amaze her how much he’d grown from the man she’d initially met. He was thriving, alive, and seizing life for what it was. “For what it’s worth, you’re on our team,” he said finally.
“Wait, ¿qué?”
“You’ll see,” he said, pecking John’s lips before going toward her and kissing her as well. “There’s an extra present we’ve got you.”
“What?”
“Yes,” John said, quickly grabbing a box and setting it on the table. Stella wiped her hands on her apron before slowly opening the gift, shaking her head as she laughed.
“Really?” she asked, holding the snowball maker in its packaging.
“Yes,” he answered. “You make ‘em, we toss ‘em.”
“When are we doing this?”
“When they step into the backyard.”
“Wow, we’re taking it seriously this year.”
“We haven’t had a proper snowball fight, ever,” John said. “I love that Simon suggested it.”
“When did you two get me this?”
“Just a few days ago, when Johnny asked if we could host the party here.”
“I can’t wait, but I also want to throw!”
“She’s got decent aim, angel,” Simon said, glancing at John. His cheeks flushed, before turning toward her.
“Fair enough,” he relented.
“Awesome,” Stella beamed. “The kitchen’s ready for Emily to bring in the pork shoulder and I’ve got the mac and cheese all set up and ready to cook in the oven.”
“Perfect,” Simon said as they heard a car pulling into the driveway. “That’s our cue,” he said gleefully.
“You two are going to hide out in the yard until they come out?”
“Yes,” John said, following after Simon as they left with her new toy. Stella laughed, happy to see her partners enjoying the holiday.
“We’re here!” Emily cried as she and John stepped inside.
“Hey! I’m in the kitchen,” Stella cried as her friends walked in.
“We’ve got your presents right here,” Soap started.
“Put them by the tree, yours are there, too,” she said as Emily proceeded toward her. “I didn’t do a lot of decorating because I didn’t know if you wanted to-”
“Stella, you’ve done enough by making a huge dessert table, that’s more than enough,” Emily cut in as she hugged her friend. “I brought rice, and the pork shoulder is with John on the wagon we brought.”
“Awesome, the oven should be good to go. I have mac and cheese as well; all it needs is some time to broil.”
“Noted,” Emily said as she checked the temperature on the appliance before putting the slightly cooked meat in the oven.
“Where’s Price and Lt?”
“Check the backyard?” Stella suggested, shrugging. “I haven’t heard from them in a while.”
“Alright then,” Soap said as he walked through the backdoor. The loud smack and splatter that immediately followed had Stella cackling.
“Ya cheeky bastards! Where are you?!” Soap cried, his steps fading away as he ran down the steps.
“It’s two against one! No fair! I’m coming, baby!” Emily cried, running after him. Stella laughed as another car pulled up. She slid off her apron before starting toward the front door to see Farah and Alex arriving.
“Where is everyone?” he asked, carrying a sleeping Barry in his car seat.
“Get ‘im, Emily! Their left flank is weak!” Soap’s voice cut through.
“Oh, it’s on,” Alex said, setting him down on the couch before running toward the backyard. “I’m coming, Price!” he said as soon as he stepped outside.
“And they all just left you? Where’s Emily?” Farah asked.
“Backing up her man. She just finished setting the pork shoulder in the oven,” Stella answered. “I wanna go out there and help but I want to make sure everyone sets their stuff down before –”
“Where is Price?” Nik asked, carrying quite a few presents. He was followed by Kate and Olivia.
“He’s outside having a snowball fight with the-”
“Vamos Alejandro, Soap needs us!” Rodolfo said, carefully walking through everyone and darting toward the backyard.
“Snowball fight, say no more,” Nik said, setting the presents down by the tree and also making his move to head outside.
“Who’s winning?”
“I don’t know yet,” Stella answered Kate. “John or Simon had the first shot. I wanna go out there and help, but I want to make sure everyone’s here first.”
“We’re here, Laura and Carlos are just parking the car,” Kyle said as he, Sean, and David stepped inside.
“Snowball fight in the yard,” she said simply.
“Oh, let’s go,” David said. “It’s been years, but I did win the neighborhood battles back in my day.”
“Let’s go,” Kyle agreed, following after his partners.
~~
Outside, John and Simon were having a great time. They were throwing snow at their friends, holed up on their wall and watching how Alejandro and Rudy were busy building a wall to help protect Soap and Emily from their persistent onslaught. Alex threw another ball toward them, hitting Rodolfo in the shoulder. Rose finally made it outside, quickly preparing a ball and throwing it in Alex’s direction. She hit his beanie and squealed at knocking it off of his head.
“I did it!” she cried as she hugged Emily.
“Alex, I’m coming,” Farah said as she sprinted across the backyard toward her husband. Nick was on snowball duty, using Stella’s gadget to keep them well-stocked. John and Simon had also left one for the other team, which Sean was currently using.
“Who’s got Barry?” he asked.
“Olivia and Kate,” she answered as she reached the group. “Who’s winning?”
“We are,” Simon said as he lobbed another ball.
“That’s a load of shite!” Soap cried as he threw another snowball and hit Simon on the head.
“Oh, you’re goin’ to pay for that one MacTavish!” he cried as he wiped the ice from his face.
“You fired first!”
“Doesn’t matter!” Simon cried back, taking a snowball from Nik. “Thank you!” he said as he tossed it, landing squarely on Soap’s chest.
“I’m here!” Stella cried, sprinting down the steps and bolting to reach her partners.
“Get ‘er!” Soap cried.
“No, you don’t!” Stella said, grabbing some snow right quick and throwing a ball at his arm.
“That’s our girl!” Price cried as she reached their side of the yard.
~~
The war raged on for the better part of an hour, until Kate called a ceasefire on account of the babies being too fussy. Farah quickly ran up the back steps to take her squawling son from Kate, everyone slowly filing in behind her. John squeezed Simon and Stella’s hands as they finally stepped into the cabin. Soap grinned at everyone, panting as he slowly caught his breath.
“That was fun. Thank you,” he said, grinning at Simon and John.
“You’re welcome,” John said with a warm smile.
“Lunch should be ready soon,” Emily said. “I saw you brought out a bunch of board games into the living room.”
“I did,” Stella beamed. “I’ve also got my switch and Mario Party for those who would prefer that.”
“Let’s go!” Alex cried. “Calling dibs on Mario,” he said, quickly grabbing a controller off the rack.
“Just don’t be mad when I leave you in the dust,” Stella boasted.
“Oh, you’re on.”
The rest of the afternoon flew past the group, with them playing and having a great time celebrating Soap and Emily’s upcoming nuptials with board games, good food, and fighting with the random number generator. It was exactly what the couple wanted, and they couldn’t be any happier than they were when their found family was gathered together.
Everything went perfect.
Chapter 11: Work Party Mishap
Summary:
Simon and Stella arrive at the first ever T141 PMC Christmas party to celebrate Price and Kate's accomplishment with their friends.
Notes:
Hey everyone!
Day 11 and for this prompt I could only think of one thing, and it happens in the AU where Simon and Stella get together first.
Enjoy!
Chapter Text
Simon stepped into the event hall, lacing his fingers with Stella’s as they continued toward the 141 table in the far corner of the room. She was dressed in an elegant forest green dress, and he complimented her perfectly in a grey suit with a satin tie the same color of her dress. They were dressed to the nines, and while they would’ve preferred to stay home…
This was the first big T141 PMC Christmas Party, they needed to be there.
“Have I mentioned how much I love your dress?”
“About twenty times since we’ve left the house,” Stella said, blushing once more. “You helped me make it.”
“I know, and I can’t get over how well you did with everything.”
“The one at the department store was deplorable.”
“I’m glad we didn’t purchase it.”
“Me, too,” Stella said as they reached their table. “Your tie came out really nice. My first time working on a pattern like that and it came out pretty good,” she continued, brushing off a speck of dust from it.
“I got us a suite here for the night.”
“While I love that, who’s taking care of Bowser and Spectre?”
“The neighbor. I promised her cookies.”
“Which ones?”
“The shortbread ones you make in powdered sugar with almond extract.”
“You know what’s funny?”
“What?
“Emily’s most recent pregnancy craving were those cookies exactly,” Stella giggled. “I’ll make them tomorrow.”
“Perfect, so we can stay here as long as you want and retreat to our room whenever we need a moment.”
“Thank you. Our bags are packed in the car, weren’t they?”
“Of course,” Simon beamed at her.
“Thank you for the surprise, I really appreciate it,” Stella said softly.
“There’s a part two.”
“What did you do?”
“We’ve got massages, and a few treatments booked for tomorrow along with a late checkout.”
“You’re spoiling me,” she blushed, squeezing his hand.
“You deserve that and more,” he said, kissing her forehead. “Don’t want to ruin your makeup just yet.”
“Oh, God,” Stella said, her cheeks growing redder. “Are we the first ones here?”
“No, Soap and Em said they had just gotten out of the cab when I last texted them,” he said as their friends came into view. While Emily still wasn’t visibly showing yet, she was still glowing as they walked over to the table. Her red dress went well with Soap’s black tux, and they were dressed to kill as well. They sat down next to Simon and Stella, briefly exchanging their greetings before catching up. Stella was quick to mention that she was about to fulfill Emily’s craving the next night if all went according to plan.
“Thanks,” she said softly as Kyle and his dates finally arrived. They all looked incredible in their coordinating suits and ties, the trio sporting wide grins. Kate and Olivia arrived not long after, followed by John as he took up the last seat on the table.
“You outdid yourself, Kate. Everything looks amazing,” David complimented as the lights dimmed just slightly and the DJ began his first set.
“Thanks, John almost messed up the napkin color,” she teased.
“I didn’t realize that off white and eggshell were not the same color,” he sighed. Stella and Emily laughed before she nudged Soap playfully.
“Soap almost got the wrong blue napkins for our wedding,” she teased him, nudging him playfully. “Thankfully, I was able to fix it before he’d placed the order.”
“I don’t blame you,” Kate laughed. She eyed the ballroom, glad to see their employees having a great time. The music swelled, the bass thrummed, the employees drinking and enjoying the moment. Kyle was swiftly swept away to the dance floor by his partners while Soap and Em headed in the same direction after them. Simon held out his hand toward Stella, a quiet question hanging in his eyes. Slowly, she slid her hand into his, squeezing it.
“I’d love to,” she answered, following him to the floor. He grinned, leading the way before sliding an arm around her waist.
“Time to put my dance classes to good use.”
“I told you they’d last longer than our wedding,” Stella teased him as he pulled her against him and swayed to the music together. He loved the feeling of her body against his, how her soft curves fit against his now smoother edges. He still trained, but not as rigorously as before. As long he could still carry Stella to bed, he was happy. That was his biggest priority.
“Thank you for coming with me tonight.”
“Of course,” she beamed. “it’s not every night I get to show off my man,” she said into his ear. Simon laughed, holding her tightly as they continued to move about their little corner of the dance floor together.
~~
Stella sighed as she waited around for Simon to come back. He’d excused himself to got have a small meet up with the guys before Price’s big speech. Dinner was about to be served in a bit, which meant the music was softer now as Kate and John prepared to share some words about the PMC’s success that year and sharing their plans about what was going to come next.
“Well looky here, a fine lady such as yourself alone this evenin’,” started a voice with a heavy southern drawl right next to her. Stella shifted her gaze, catching what she was certain was a blonde head of hair and blue eyes gazing intently right at her.
Well, more like her chest, before the gaze moved back up to meet her unamused expression. She shook her head, sighing before leaning back against the wall and sipping her soda.
“Would you like to join me for a dance?”
“No, I’m perfectly all danced out, thank you,” Stella said flatly, clearing her throat. Scanning the room revealed no signs of Simon, which frustrated her, but she also knew he had things to do. She could fight her own battles, but she loved seeing her husband stand up for her.
“Come on, darlin’,” the blonde pushed as Stella took a step aside to put more distance between them. “You can’t be that bad of a dancer.”
“I’m not, but I don’t want to dance,” she persisted, trying to let him down as gently as possible.
“Put the drink down and indulge me. I’d love to get to know you better,” he continued, grabbing her glass and setting it on a waiter’s tray. Stella scowled, starting to walk away when she felt his fingers wrap around her wrist and tugging her toward him. “It’s rude to walk away when someone’s tryin’ to talk to you.”
“No is a complete sentence,” Stella said firmly. She took a deep breath, deciding that enough was enough. “Kate, please forgive me,” she said out loud. The name seemed to ring a bell for the blonde as his grip loosened for just a moment.
“Kate?” he asked as Stella took the opportunity and stomped on his shoe. The jolt of pain startled him, releasing her. “Son of a bitch!” She took a quick step back, ready to run when a gravelly voice swiftly surrounded her in warmth.
“Everything alright here?” Simon asked.
“Yes, Ghost, it’s just my date here has two left feet.”
“Simon,” Stella breathed out, relief flooding her system. He swiftly wrapped an arm around her waist, tucking her into his side. Her head came to rest against his chest, and she quickly pressed her ear against it to feel his heartbeat. It slowly eased her nerves, putting her further at ease. “You’re here.”
“You know him,” the southern gentleman responded. A chill crawled down his spine at the intense stare Simon was giving him, keeping him tethered to his spot on the carpet. It didn’t take him long to put the pieces of the puzzle together and his expression became even paler as the awareness seeped into his bones. The way their looks completed each other, the possessive hold the former SAS soldier had on her form. How quickly she melted into his embrace. It all meant one thing. “She’s your date.”
“Of course, she’s my wife, Graves,” Simon said firmly, brushing his thumb across the small of her back. The soft gesture helped assuage the last bits of her tension. “Who else would I bring?”
“You’re married.”
“Happily so,” she beamed, a saccharine smile on her lips. “It does look like someone needs a reminder that ‘no’ is a complete sentence.”
“I’m so sorry for the misunderstanding,” Graves spoke quickly. “No wonder you mentioned Kate, you-I-I need to go,” he said, making a swift exit.
“Now he can’t get away fast enough,” Stella muttered. “Thanks for coming to my rescue.”
“You did a good job on your own. I’d just come out of the back room when I saw him grab your wrist. Couldn’t get here quickly enough.”
“Thank you,” she said smiling up at him.
“I thought you were goin’ to kick him in the balls,” Soap said as he arrived with Kyle.
“I thought about that, but I do think that’s the last thing Kate would’ve wanted. Though I regret it now that I know he’s Graves,” she chided.
“Don’t worry about it, Stel,” Soap assured her. “He and his Shadows have to deal with us now on the daily.”
“I don’t think I’ve ever seen someone go so white before. Not even Simon when he wore his mask constantly,” Kyle teased. “What freaked him out?”
“That I’m Simon’s date, thought I do think he also got even more ill when Si corrected that I’m his wife,” Stella answered. “You’re the best, osito,” she said, looking up at him.
“No, that’s you, Koeia,” he said, dipping his head and meeting her lips. “What do you say we go upstairs to our suite and catch up on our Christmas reading?” Simon grinned.
“After dinner, I’m hungry.”
“Fair enough, we’ll burn off some calories later.”
Chapter 12: Santa Claus
Summary:
Price is all dressed up as the jolly man to celebrate the holiday with their friends and their kids when he and Simon get some unexpected news.
Notes:
This one's Price, Simon, and Stella.
Short and sweet today.
I'm super excited for tomorrow's prompt.
Chapter Text
John adjusted his suit, taking a deep breath as he scrutinized his reflection in the bedroom mirror. This had all been Simon’s idea, a way to celebrate Christmas differently. Kyle loved the idea, and the rest of the group chipped in to purchase the Santa Suit and everything else to make sure he looked the part. Stella and Laura were fussing about his makeup and ensuring the beard and everything looked absolutely perfect.
John felt every bit of the jolly man, but the nerves were winning over. Simon stepped into the room, lugging the bag of presents over his shoulder. “Nervous?” he offered softly, setting the pouch onto the guest bed.
“A bit,” he said softly, adjusting his hat. “Do you think the kids will believe it?”
“Yeah, they will,” Simon reassured him. He carefully reached out, grasping his hand. The warmth of his partner did wonders for his nerves before the door opened once more. Stella grinned nervously, clutching a small box in her hands as she stepped further into the room. “Dove, did I forget a present?”
“No, uh, this one’s special,” she said softly, moving a few steps closer. “Santa should open it first,” she continued, carefully handing the present over. Simon and John’s gazes narrowed as they stood together their attention focused on the present. John carefully unwrapped it, making sure not to damage the paper. Simon took the gift wrap, setting it aside before John finally opened the lid of the box.
Tears formed in their eyes as they saw the positive pregnancy test settled atop of a onesie that read ‘Player 4.’
“You’re pregnant,” John whispered.
“Yeah,” Stella said softly, chewing on her lips. “We’re having a baby.”
“Oh, sweetheart,” Simon said softly as they wrapped her up in their arms. They showered her with kisses all over her cheeks, muttering soft praises while carefully rubbing her stomach.
“I can’t wait to meet them,” John murmured, pulling away for a moment before leaning and giving Stella a long kiss.
“Mamaaaaaa!” cried out a voice. “Auntie Stella was kissing Santa Claus!”
Chapter 13: Precariously Hanging Christmas Lights
Summary:
Stella is trying to hang some lights on her bookshelf and stumbles. Simon rushes over to help her and well...
they fuck.
Notes:
Hello! I come bearing some smut!
I had so much fun working on this one.
Also, please, practice safety when trying to use restraints. Especially if they're Christmas lights. (tis a big no-no though LEDs don't heat up as much as your standard bulbs. I did some research, okay?)
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Stella huffed as she tried to find a way to hang the lights in the living room. They were LED lights, battery operated. A small string of decorative bulbs that were meant to illuminate her reading nook perfectly. It was hard to reach, but she was sure she could do it without Simon’s help. He was busy in the kitchen as he cleaned up the space. It’d been a few hours after lunch, and they were gearing up for a night in with their holiday books and some cozy games.
“Oh, fuck!” Stella cried, tripping on the armrest and falling onto the plush chair. “Ow!”
“Dove?!” Simon said, bolting to the living room. “Are you alright? What were you doing?” he sighed, seeing her tangled up in a mess of lights.
“I slipped,” she sighed, shaking her arm. “Bonked my elbow when I landed.”
“What were you doing?”
“Trying to put some lights up there,” she answered pointing over to the top of the shelf.
“Why didn’t you ask for my help?”
“Because I thought I could do it.”
“Sweetheart, how many times I have to tell you that you’re not bothering me when you ask for help?”
“I’m stubborn, you know that.”
“As am I, but I still push through it,” he scolded her. “Where does it hurt?”
“Here,” Stella said, struggling as she tried to show him. Simon chuckled, watching how the lights were tangled up in her form, nothing restrictive, but enough to give him a few ideas.
“Let me help, you’ve gotten yourself all wrapped up in here,” he murmured, reaching over and taking one end of the lights and slowly untangling her. The mess fueled his imagination, thinking about how beautiful she’d look all wrapped up for him, a present. He helped her through it, being careful to not make the bindings worse while also taking the proper measures to not hurt her any further. It took him a moment to register Stella’s own heated gaze, her brown eyes fully immersed as she followed the movement of his hands. “Dove?” he called out softly.
“I really like your hands,” she blurted out, meeting his eyes as the finally set her free from her LED and wire prison. The outburst caught him off guard, a blush creeping onto his face and reaching all the way up to his ears. Out of all of the compliments she’d bestowed on him, this was the most peculiar one, but it wasn’t unwelcome.
“You do?” he asked softly.
“Mm-hmm,” she hummed as her eyes kept following each movement of his hands. He smirked, elated that she was having the same thoughts he was. While keeping his eyes on her, he reached over and grabbed the string of lights.
“Do you want to be a good helper?” Simon whispered, his voice husky. A dreamy hum escaped her lips, setting him on fire. “Hey, look at me,” he continued, keeping his voice in the same pitch. Stella held his gaze, and he could see the same wanton need in her just as he had. “I would like to tie you up with the lights, would that be alright with you?”
“Yes,” she answered, sounding a little more like herself.
“What’s your safe word?”
“Soccer,” she replied without missing a beat. Simon internally cringed but appreciated it. He’d never admit it, but that word was the perfect one for him. The gut instinct to correct her would always win outright no matter the circumstance.
“Good girl,” he praised. “I will make the binding loose enough for you to slip out of if you need to.”
“Okay,” Stella agreed.
“First off, take off that sweatshirt,” he requested, his voice deeper. She slowly pulled off his Batman sweater, throwing it onto the couch. “Look at you,” he breathed, teasing her with the string of lights. “No bra, just a flimsy little tank top.” Each word in that deep timbre sunk deeper into her skin, stirring the want into her veins further. “Fuckin’ hell.” He reached out, grasping her hands and bringing them toward him. “You’re going to look so pretty tied up with these lights,” he murmured, carefully twisting the cord around her wrists. He kept pulling one end of the cord until he found the switch, turning it on. The LED lights came to life, pulsing on and off. “How does that feel? Loose enough?” he asked, checking in.
“Yes,” Stella said softly.
“Good,” he murmured, gently placing her hands above her head. “Now you need to stay absolutely still.”
“Yes, sir,” she affirmed. Simon stood up for a moment, drinking the sight of her bound hands draped over the cushion. His mind ran wild with more ideas, they’d read about bondage and restraints, but this was the first time it’d ever been put into practice. Now he wanted to explore it further. “What are you going to do to me?”
“I’m going to take my time,” he said softly, his hands ghosting over her form. Stella trembled and shivered, anticipating the warmth of his hands and whimpering as he came close but still wouldn’t touch her. Slowly, he pushed up her stretchy crop top, exposing her full breasts. “Fuckin’ hell, you’re so beautiful,” he growled diving into the crook of her neck and shoulder and nipping at the soft skin. The delectable sigh that escaped her lips went right through to his cock, stiffening in his joggers. His lips brushed against her pulse point while his hands carefully kneaded her breasts.
She tried to remain still, but each twirl and pinch of her nipples spiked her arousal further. “Such a good girl for me,” he murmured into her skin, slowly kissing his way downward. He lingered on her chest, lovingly pecking each peaked mound. “I could just stay here, kissing every inch of you.” The gravel in his voice continued to wrap her up in his warmth, his hands grasping onto her hips.
“Simon,” Stella whimpered, arching toward him.
“Patience, beautiful,” he said, keeping his voice low. Finally, he hooked his thumbs on the hem of her joggers slowly pulling them down. As each inch of skin was revealed, he showered her with more kisses.
“Simon,” she begged softly.
“You’re well wet for me, aren’t you?”
“Yes.”
“Good girl. You look so festive. I’m about to grab some of that satin ribbon and make you my pretty little present,” he murmured. The warmth in Stella’s veins turned to fire at his words, every inch of her heightened at the reverence he stared at her with. It’d been years together by this point, and she could never get over the adoration in his eyes every time he looked at her. “Wrap it around these gorgeous tits, making sure the ribbon rubs you just right,” he purred.
“Fuck,” she hissed.
“You stay perfectly still, love,” he said, kissing her pudge. “I will be right back.”
“Simon,” she whined, opening her eyes and following his movements. He walked around the living room, finding exactly what he was looking for. Each step back toward the lounge chair was measured, his smirk hardening as he saw the pleading look in her eyes. Her gaze followed his hands, watching almost entranced as he slowly pulled out more of the black satin ribbon. Once he reached her side, he cut the length he was sure he needed before slowly wrapping it around her chest, twirling the textured ribbon so it wouldn’t lay flat.
“There we go,” he said in appreciation as he tied the bow off right in the valley of her breasts. “You make such a pretty present.” Her needy, rapid breathing egged him on further as he slowly cut up two more pieces of ribbon. “I’m going to tie up your ankles so I can have your legs nice and spread out for me.”
“Oh god,” Stella gasped.
“How are you feeling, angel?”
“Green, fucking green,” she answered quickly. Another impish smirk curled on his lips as he slowly wrapped the ribbon on her ankles with care, making sure that they were loose enough for her to slip through if need be.
“That’s my girl.” His voice was pure velvet to her ears, that deep timbre that for her meant safety. He had her. And he always would. Now that she was positioned exactly how he wanted her, Simon slowly worked his way up her legs. With rapt attention, he nipped, suckled, and kissed his way toward her center. Her needy whimpers were music to his ears as he drew closer to the apex of her thighs. “Look at you, so wet for me, just like I knew you would be,” he murmured, teasing her glistening folds with his fingers.
“Simon, por favor,” she pleaded, chasing after his touch. In all their time together, she’d never used her native tongue when they were intimate; and now, hearing her speak it so delicately, tugged at the little self-restraint he had left.
“I’ve got you, never forget that,” he reminded her, slowly sliding two fingers inside of her sopping cunt. It was easy to work her up, knowing her body like their favorite romance novel. A curl of his fingers, along with the right amount of pressure on her clit and she came undone beautifully. He finger-fucked her through her aftershocks, watching contently as she slowly caught her breath. “I could watch you orgasm all day,” Simon complimented. “How are you feeling?”
“Really fucking good, but empty,” she answered.
“Does my good girl want me to fuck her?”
“Yes, please.”
“After I make you cum a few more times,” he smirked. “I didn’t spend all this effort tying you up just to give you one.” The flush of her skin deepened, her cheeks rosy as she realized the implication of his words. Slowly, he traced her freckles, pleased at the giggle that bubbled out of her. He brought the hand that was slick with her release to his lips, enjoying the look in her eyes as he licked it clean. “I’m going to enjoy this pussy for a little bit.”
Simon enthusiastically dove into her folds, using his fingers and mouth together to bring her pleasure over and over again. Stella whimpered and trembled with each orgasm he gave her, squirting all over him as she came once, twice, and a third time. “How are you feeling?”
“Sofuckinggood,” she murmured. “Butineedyou,” Stella rambled in her orgasmic haze. He chuckled, quickly standing up and sliding his joggers off. He carefully tossed his shirt over his head, throwing it over to the couch and climbing back onto the lounge seat. His cock ached, and he was eager to bury himself inside her needy pussy, knowing she was extremely sensitive.
“I’m right there, angel,” he whispered, thrusting into her in one fell swoop. He threw his head back for a moment, groaning in relief as he found himself in heaven. Stella sighed contently, his favorite sound as he slowly moved in careful strokes. “You always feel so good,” he praised, hearing her fractured cries of blissful pleasure. “You were made for me, for this cock,” he continued, moving faster as he felt her spasming around his length. “Fuckin’ hell, you’re so fuckin’ perfect, angel,” he growled, picking up the pace.
“S-simon,” she whined, arching her back off the lounge chair.
“That’s it, gorgeous, say my name, tell me who’s making you feel good.”
“You, Simon. A-a-lways you,” she whimpered, gasping as she felt her next release building. “I-I-”
“I’m right there with you, love, one more. For me,” he groaned as he bent over, cradling her cheek with one hand as he held himself up by his other elbow. One dip of his head and their lips met in a soul-mending kiss as they both came together, crying into each other’s lips. Stella swiftly pulled her hands free, cupping his cheeks as they kissed their way down together. “Fuckin’ hell,” he gasped out as he rested his forehead against hers. “That was unbelievable.” Stella hummed beneath him, breathing heavily as she slowly caught her breath. “You were incredible.” More noises poured out of her, eliciting a chuckle out of him. “Angel, I need you to actually talk to me.”
“Hold, my soul is somewhere in here,” she finally spoke up, her voice hoarse. Simon laughed, burying his head into the crook of her neck and shoulder.
“How are you feeling?” he checked in.
“I’m okay. Do we need restraints now?”
“Only if you want them.”
“Maybe,” Stella said softly. “We could get them in silk.”
“That’s an idea,” Simon agreed, shifting so they were both sideways. “Want a few more minutes of this before I take us to the shower?”
“Yeah. Cuddles and Jim Carey’s Grinch movie later?”
“Absolutely. But after I hang your lights first.”
“Thank you,” Stella whispered, pecking his lips. He flashed her a lopsided, happy grin before kissing her nose.
“Te amo.”
“Y yo a tí, mi osito.”
Notes:
Translations:
por favor - please
Te amo - I love you but more intimate
Y yo a tí, mi osito - And I you, little bear. (yes, it's ironic. he loves it, okay?)
Chapter 14: Just Like Mum Used to Make
Summary:
Emily and Soap have a special Christmas Eve dinner.
Notes:
It's been so long since I focused on these two. Soap and Emily for today's prompt.
Chapter Text
It’d been the longest Christmas Eve ever for her. She’d been trying to figure out how to make the best Scottish holiday dishes for Soap. Simon and the lads had taken him out to spend the day together at the cabin, playing games and apparently having a snowball fight amongst themselves. Stella, Rose, and Laura had been her assistants. Stella was at her side in the kitchen, helping her follow along the recipes she found while Laura and Rose made sure the rest of their apartment looked every bit cherry while Sean ran the store.
“Are you sure he’s going to like it?” Emily fussed as Stella helped her mash the turnips and potatoes.
“Yes, Em,” Stella assured her. “We’ve been at this all day, you found a bunch of recipes his cousin said he liked, and you’re making it with a whole lot of love. That’s what matters.”
“Yeah, but, I’m worried. He never really talks about his family and his cousin is just too busy to make it over this year.”
“He’s got time to visit. Especially if you two are getting married. Give it time,” her best friend assured her.
“Thanks,” Emily said as they stirred everything together.
“We’ve got your back, Em,” Rose piped in as she came into the kitchen with Laura. “I’m eager to see what Ale and Rudy cook up for us tomorrow.”
“I’m surprised they didn’t ask you to help them.”
“Hey, they said I was not allowed in the restaurant kitchen, I listen,” Rose said, holding her hands up in defeat.
“Fair enough,” Laura said, shaking her head. Even though she was fairly new to the group, she was thankful for them all. After Stella reached out shortly after getting together with Simon, this chaotic group of friends embraced her and her boyfriend with love. She appreciated every moment they all spent together. It was the family away from home. “How much longer until Soap gets here?”
“Not much, Si told me that they’re about an hour away. So, we,” Stella started. “Need to get going so Em can get ready for her man.”
“Wear the red dress!” Laura said as she grabbed her bag.
“Don’t forget the ring in the tart!” Rose chimed in as she also grabbed her stuff.
“You’ve got this, we love you!” Stella said as they all hugged their friend before swiftly making their exit.
Emily quickly showered and dressed up, eager to surprise her boyfriend with their intimate holiday date. It was more than just a date to her. She knew that he was the one and for the last two weeks, she’d been trying to figure out how to propose to him. Sure, it was non-traditional, but she truly adored him. Wanted to make sure he knew her intentions.
She took a long look at herself in the mirror, making sure that every hair on her head, the makeup, and the fit looked perfect. Soap loved every inch of her as she was, and it did wonders for her confidence. The front door to the apartment opened, and soon his raspy voice spoke up. “Princess, I’m back!”
“Welcome home, Johnny,” Emily said as she stepped into the living room to greet him. He let out a low whistle, grabbing her hand and twirling her for a moment.
“You always look gorgeous, Em. What’s the occasion?”
“I made us dinner. Wanted us to have a nice little date night, just you and me.”
“Sounds wonderful. Let me pop in the shower and I’ll be right out,” he beamed at her.
“I’ll get the table ready.”
~~
John looked at himself in the shower, sighing before he shifted his focus to the velvet box in his hand. He’d bought the ring weeks ago, after telling Simon that he was positive that he wanted to marry Emily. It wasn’t long after they started dating that he’d had an inkling she was the one, but the feeling came full circle recently while on the phone with his cousin. He’d been talking his ear off about the Puerto Rican woman who practically owned his heart and soul when his cousin chimed in with ‘Then marry ‘er!’
He was right.
After running a hand through his hair, he walked into their room. It didn’t take long for him to find exactly what he was planning to wear. A plaid Henley that would go well with Emily’s dress and some of his best pants. Sure, they weren’t going anywhere, but she’d made the effort to wear a dress, so she deserved the same respect.
“It smells delicious in ‘ere, Em, what did you make for dinner?” John asked, fidgeting as he played with the box in his pocket.
“I made some venison, Neeps and Tatties, some Haggis bon bons, Brussel sprouts wrapped in bacon, and dessert,” Emily said softly, uncovering each dish carefully. Each plate of food mentioned sounded incredible to his ears, and he couldn’t believe it as he eyed every plate on the table.
“This looks incredible, princess, just like ‘ome,” he said, breathless.
“I-I know it’s probably nothing like how your mom used to make but your cousin said he didn’t have the recipes,” Emily explained nervously.
“It doesn’t matter, you brought a bit ‘o ‘ome ta me,” John said softly, wrapping his arms around her and giving her a long kiss. In that moment, he knew that tonight had to be the night to propose. There was no way he was going to let her slip away. “I can’t wait ta try everythin.’”
“I’m glad,” she said softly. “Sit, I’ll go get us some wine.”
“Right.” He quickly took his usual seat at the table, taking a photo of everything Emily had gotten done.
Look at what princess set up for me.
I’m proposing tonight.
Gaz: I know she’ll say yes.
Price: She’d be a fool not to.
👻: Better show us a picture, then.
“I’m back,” Emily said softly, setting a glass of white wine next to him. “What were you doing?”
“Tellin’ the lads what I came home to,” John beamed proudly.
“I’m glad you like the surprise,” she said softly, taking a seat across from him. “Why don’t you tell me what chaos you got into? Stella mentioned a snowball fight?”
“Oh, it was more than thaa,” he grinned. He spent the next few minutes telling her the whole story about how Simon showed them the whole property and then it all started with one snowball from Gaz before it completely turned into a chaotic mess. Emily grinned as he continued further, explaining how they all ended up settling inside and letting themselves dry off as they played some video games together. And then he also told her about how Alex completely kicked their asses in Mario Party thanks to Gaz’s bad luck and having to swap stars with him.
“Sounds like you had a lot of fun today,” she grinned as they started to eat. John moaned as he tasted the venison, it was cooked perfectly. It was spiced well and the meat almost melted into his mouth. “Good?”
“Yes,” John groaned. “Just like mum used to make it.”
“Really?” Emily asked softly.
“Yes,” he assured her, having some of the mashed potatoes and turnips. “Steamin’ bloody Jesus, Em. You’ve outdone yourself.”
“I’m so glad you like it,” she whispered, tears glistening in her eyes.
“I do.”
“I can’t wait for you to try dessert.”
“What’d you make?”
“A surprise, you’ll see,” Emily beamed as they continued to enjoy their meal together. John asked her how she managed to get everything done and she admitted that she’d had the girls over to help. It made things easier. He loved their friends, appreciated Simon and Stella for introducing them in the first place, and the family he built now warmed his heart. After only having his cousin for most of his life, everyone that has come into his life in recent years was a blessing. “I’ll be right back with dessert,” Emily said as they finished their dinner. She quickly ducked into the kitchen as John finally pulled out the velvet box. He took a deep breath before getting up and setting the velvet box on her placemat.
Emily reappeared, nervous smile on her lips as she set a plate before him with a decadent-looking Ecclefechan tart before him. John started at it in awe, marveling at the beautiful-looking treat, adorned with a scoop of ice cream, and a glistening Claddagh band.
“Em,” he said softly, looking up at her. “Look in your seat.”
“What do…oh my god,” she whispered, dropping her pate. John caught with his reflexes, avoiding disaster as she opened the velveteen box to see a beautiful band that matched the one she got him. “John,” she whispered, tears in her eyes.
“Will you marry me?” he asked softly.
“Yes!” Emily squealed, wrapping her arms around him. He breathed out a sigh of relief, beaming as she peppered his cheeks with kisses. “Oh my god.”
“When did you get this?” he asked, pulling out the ring and cleaning it up with a nearby napkin. “It’s beautiful.”
“Stella helped me pick one out.”
“Simon helped me pick out yours.”
“Oh, my god,” Emily breathed, shaking her head as she watched John slide the ring onto his finger. “Does it fit?”
“Perfect,” he said, pulling her close.
“But the tart-”
“Right now, I don’t care about the tart. I want you,” John murmured, bringing her lips to his. “Just you and that ring on your finger.”
“Same here,” Emily grinned, letting out a surprised yelp as he scooped her up into his arms. “I love you.”
“I love you,” he said, carrying her to the bedroom. Telling the lads could wait. Right now, all he needed was her.
Chapter 15: Ugly Christmas Sweater
Summary:
Kyle, Stella, and Emily go shopping.
Notes:
No couple here, just Gaz and the girls shopping for some Ugly Sweaters.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Kyle looked around the store, wanting to find something for everyone. He’d already found sweaters for his partners, but he still hadn’t found ones that screamed the names of the rest of the people on his list. At the moment, he was still starting at two options for Alex. One of them featuring the Mandalorian and Grogu while another sported Storm Troopers.
“Stella,” he said, calling the brunette over. She and Emily had joined him on the venture, trying to find some geeky stuff to decorate their respective apartments with. “Which one do you think would work for Alex?”
“Strom troopers,” she said without a second thought.
“Really?” Gaz asked, looking at the respective sweater.
“Yeah, get John the Mandalorian. He’s been watching the show with Simon and I,” she continued.
“He’s watching it?”
“Oh, yeah, he and Simon love it.”
“You’re gawking over Pedro Pascal, aren’t you?”
“Of course I am,” she declared proudly. Gaz chuckled, shaking his head as he added both of the items to the cart.
“I haven’t found anythin’ for Nik.”
“It shouldn’t be that hard,” Emily said as she placed a few items into the cart as well. “You have Ale and Rudy, right?” Gaz nodded in response, showing him a set of superhero sweaters.
“What did you find?” Stella asked.
“Some ornaments.”
“What would Soap like?” Gaz asked.
“I’m thinking Mario,” Emily answered. “Hold on, I think I saw one,” she said, darting off.
“I’ve got Simon covered,” Stella chimed in.
“You do?”
“Yeah,” she said, blushing slightly. “I found a Batman one a few days ago and grabbed it before it sold out,” she said, showing it to Gaz. He grinned, loving the design of the sweater, it was hideous and fit the theme he wanted for the photo.
“I’ll pay you back for that.”
“You don’t have to,” she said quickly.
“I want to,” Gaz insisted. “I wanted to get a picture of us all sporting the sweaters.”
“So that’s why you asked us to come with you!”
“Yes, I’m still missing Nik.”
“Hmmm,” Stella hummed, looking around the store. “Oh, I think I saw just the one. I’ll be right back.” He looked around the shopping cart, loving everything he’d picked out. This holiday was going to be one to remember. It was their first with Nicola and Lucas. Everything had to be as close to perfect as possible. “What do you think?” she asked, holding up a sweater with a Deadpool motif.
“Perfect,” Gaz grinned.
Notes:
Also, yes. Nik's sweater choice was deliberate. Iykyk
Chapter 16: Unusual Christmas
Summary:
Soap and Emily, while in their current friends with benefits arrangement, are on their way to her family Christmas where they encounter a familiar face.
Meanwhile, Simon finally decides to take the next step in his life.
Notes:
I have to say it's been so long since I visited this world. After writing myself into a box that I haven't been able to write my way out of, it's nice to visit these two in the universe I first started with.
So for those who have been truly missing Playing with Fire, just a sprinkle for now. (We might see these two again later.)
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Emily and Soap fussed at the airport, trying to make sure they had everything together. He’d been learning the name of the relatives he hadn’t yet met, while also trying to figure out when to tell her that he wanted their arrangement to be permanent. He’d been trying for days since they’d been told they’d gotten leave for the holidays, and he’d been nowhere near close enough to admitting how he felt.
“Is that Simon?” Emily’s voice cut through the Scot’s thoughts. Soap looked up in the direction she was glancing at and was just as surprised as she was to see a familiar shade of auburn hair make his way toward their gate. Always on alert, the Lieutenant was quick to feel the eyes of his peers on him, and his head whipping around to meet their eyes. Simon waved at them before boarding with the group in first class. “What?” she asked, confused. “I thought he wasn’t coming until New Year’s.”
“I want ta ask him the same thing. I thought he’d be goin’ back home.”
“He’s not visiting his family this year?”
“Apparently not,” Soap said, just as confused.
“Maldita sea, he’s hiding something from us,” Emily murmured.
“We’ll ask him when we get ta Puerto Rico. We’re going ta the same bag check.”
“Well, we checked our bags. But he’s got the same ones he left base with.”
“Shite,” Soap cursed. “We’ll have to ask him when we land.”
“And here I was thinking of setting him up with my friend.”
“Emily,” he warned.
“What?!” she said, exasperated. “Would it have been so bad to set him up on a blind date?”
“Yes,” Soap said, shaking his head. “He would’ve let you have it.” His gaze focused on her, chuckling as she scowled.
“I don’t want him mad at me,” she admitted.
“Good. I don’t want him mad at me either,” Soap said as their boarding group was called. “Come on, we’ve got a flight ta catch.”
“Right behind you,” Emily said, grabbing her backpack.
~~
A few hours later, they finally landed in Puerto Rico. The dramatic shift in the weather jarred Soap as the cabin door opened and more heat entered the space. People were quickly shuffling into the aisle, and he was trying his damned best to catch Simon before he got away. Emily was right behind him, quickly matching his stride as they searched for their fellow Lieutenant.
As much as he enjoyed the smells of the airport when he first arrived, his focus was on figuring out what Simon was up to. And Emily was not too far behind him. They finally caught up to Simon as he left the restroom, tying his plaid shirt onto his backpack. He looked dramatically more relaxed now, his gaze meeting Soap and Emily as the swiftly made their way over.
“Had a good flight you two?” Simon teased, smirking under his mask.
“Yeah, but what are you doing here?” Emily asked, straight to the point.
“Wouldn’t you like to know?”
“I do!” she said, smacking his arm with her paper ticket. “I thought you weren’t coming down until New Year’s.”
“Well, spendin’ Christmas at the beach sounded like a good idea,” Simon said with a dismissive shrug.
“You can come to my family party!” Emily offered. “It’s at my tío’s house. There’s music, really good food, and dominos.”
“I appreciate the invitation, Emily, but I’m quite alright. I’ve got my lodging, and I’m very much looking forward to soaking up the sun and the waves.”
“Tell us where you’re staying so we can go visit you,” she pressed.
“You enjoy your time with Johnny,” Simon said, eager to get going. “I’m sure you two have plenty to worry about than fussin’ about me,” he said, narrowing his gaze at Soap. “I’ll see you on the 30th,” he finished, turning around and walking away.
“But-”
“Em,” Soap started. “He’s not going to tell us anything.” She sighed, defeated.
“I just don’t want him to spend his time all alone.”
“I know, princess, but if he wanted us there, he would tell us,” Soap assured her, squeezing her hand. “He looked happy,” he offered in consolation.
“He did,” she conceded. “I hope whatever he’s doing, he has the time of his life.”
“That’s the way. Come on, your family’s probably losin’ their mind waitin’ for us.”
“Oh God,” Emily groaned. “Do you think they made a banner this time?”
“Your sister did mention one.”
“And you didn’t think to tell me?”
“I’m kiddin’,” Soap laughed. “Really. Now, let’s get our bags and see your family. I want to crawl into a comfortable bed and sleep until tomorrow.”
“Fair enough, me too,” she agreed, squeezing Soap’s hand.
~~
Simon took a few deep breaths as he finally reached the house. Home, sweet, home, he thought, eyeing the decorated two-story property. Stella had hung white lights over her street facing balcony and stuck an inflatable tropical Santa in the front yard. He shook his head, amused. The Santa’s new, he thought, slowly exiting the car. Hearing the waves crashing into the rocks was soothing some of his nerves. He’d been calling this place his primary residence off and on for months, but this was the first time he was coming back since he and Stella became official. Simon had wanted to come on his last leave, but there were things he needed to settle back in Manchester before he could finally start his new life.
As much as much as he cared about putting the bad guys away, this feeling was irreplaceable.
He finally had someone to come home to.
Simon pulled his bags out of the car and slowly walked his way up the front steps, carefully opening the main door. He could hear Stella talking in the background before all noises stopped. He couldn’t stop his heart from racing as he dropped his bags, quietly shutting the door behind him. As he was used to by now, he kicked off his sneakers and slid off his mask before turning his gaze up to the top of the stairs.
“There you are,” he said softly as Stella peeked out from the hallway.
“You’re here,” she breathed out, bolting toward him.
“Careful with the stairs!” Simon cried as she moved. It was such a flurry of movement; he barely registered her leap from the last two steps into his arms. He held onto her tightly, savoring the warmth and the feel of her body against his. Nerves forgotten as he was finally home. “You gave me a rightful fright.”
“Sorry. I’m just so happy to see you,” Stella sniffled.
“Are you crying?”
“Yes,” she said softly, shifting to meet his gaze. “I’ve missed you since I saw you in Chicago. I know you had things to do last leave, but I didn’t know if you were coming back to me now, or later,” she admitted.
“I’m here now. And I’m not going anywhere,” he said softly.
“Not for a few weeks.”
“No, I’m stayin’ here. I sold the flat.”
“You’re moving in?”
“I am,” he answered. “If you really meant it.”
“Of course I did! You practically spent almost every leave here since we met anyway.”
“I know,” Simon admitted. “But I meant it, I’m not leaving any more if I don’t have to.”
“Wait, so what Kate told me just now is true?”
“Yeah,” he nodded. “I’m done.”
“I thought you had more to go. The current –”
“I love you more than I love the job,” he interrupted, slowly setting Stella down on her feet. More tears streamed down her cheeks as he carefully cradled her chin. “The team can finish this. I trust them. But I can’t do this anymore. Not when I know I have someone at home, worrying about whether I come back or not.”
“Simon,” Stella whispered softly, her voice cracking.
“I would fight the world to come back to you, sweetheart,” Simon promised, kissing her forehead. “But for the last year, every time I left you, I was terrified about never making it home. I can’t live like that. Not when we’re finally together.”
“Oh my God,” she breathed, tightening her hold on him. “You’re really doing this.”
“I am. You were on a call with Kate?”
“Yeah, she was asking me to take on some consulting work to help you guys out. But I’m not gonna take it if you’re just gonna be a civilian from now on. I’d rather work on my next book and be with you.”
“Good, because I really want to know who the next couple is.”
“It’s the best friend with the oversharing speedster.”
“Bloody hell, I fuckin’ knew it,” he muttered. “I love you.”
“I love you, too. Now, I need to hang up with Kate so we can have a proper reunion,” Stella said, kissing his cheek before darting back upstairs. Simon slowly followed after her, feeling at ease for the first time in weeks. He was home, and nothing was going to change that. “Yeah, it was Simon,” he heard her speak softly onto her microphone. “He’s home.” Even hearing her say it made his heart flutter in the best way.
“Hello,” he said, stepping into the primary bedroom and seeing the camera on. John and Kate waved back as he glanced over to Stella, who still had her headset on.
“I know you wanted my help Kate, but I’m going to have to decline. I am happily retired. Have a good night, I’m going to spend my evening catching up my boyfriend who just got home,” she said, looking over her shoulder and beaming at Simon. “Bye,” she finished, hanging up the call.
“Come here,” Simon murmured, watching as she covered up her camera and took off her headset. Her eyes sparkled in the dim bedroom lights, each step she took toward him painfully slow. “Dove.”
“My answer is yes, by the way,” she teased.
“For what?”
“You retired because you see a future, and I’m a part of it. It’s almost a proposal, you know.”
“Give me a few months, and I’ll have the ring to go with it.”
“Seriously?”
“When you know, you know.”
“How did I get so lucky?”
“I ask myself the same question every day, dove,” Simon said softly, trucking a wayward strand behind her ear. “Take those glasses off for me before we break them.”
“Gonna love me that hard tonight?”
“I have you all to myself until the 24th. I intend to make the most of it,” he said, sliding an arm around her and gripping one of her plush ass cheeks.
“It’s a good thing I went grocery shopping ayer.”
“That’s my girl.”
Notes:
Translations:
Maldita sea - Goddamit
ayer - yesterday
Chapter 17: Tree Decorating
Summary:
Rodolfo and Alejandro host Rosie in their apartment for their first date as a trio to decorate the tree.
Notes:
I think this is the first time I actually explore this unit after having them interact during the Friendsgiving chapter in The Assistant.
With evidently, more emotional whiplash at the end because this really fits perfectly with the timeline of the fic.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Alejandro and Rodolfo fussed around their apartment above the bar. Things needed to be absolutely perfect. Rosita was coming over for the first time. They’d all mussed about what to do for their date, and Rose mentioned how much she loved to decorate for the holiday. Hence the idea of her coming over to help them with their tree.
The rest of the team was going to be over at the company party, and they’d dared to let their employees run the place for the night just so they could have this night alone with Rose. The smell of their fir filled the space, while Alejandro was busy in the kitchen preparing their dinner. Rudy paced at the door, eager to receive their red-headed crush as soon as she buzzed her arrival.
Right on time, the buzzer rang. Rudy made sure that he looked perfect before darting down to greet her at the door. “Preciosa,” he said softly, drinking her in. She looked beautiful in her coat, and he couldn’t wait to see the rest of her outfit as soon as she made it upstairs.
“Hi,” she said timidly, holding out a box. “I brought something for us to drink tonight while we decorate the tree.”
“Gracias,” Rodolfo said, leading the way to the apartment. She stepped in after him, her eyes taking in the space. It was already lightly decorated but there was definitely room for more. She was excited to help them make the place even better. It was a stark contrast to most of her previous partners, they’d put effort into their place. It felt like a home. A place she could see herself regularly in. “Let me help you with your coat,” he offered, helping Rose take off her winter coat. Her cheeks flushed with color at the gesture, warming Rudy’s heart.
“It’s so nice here,” she said softly.
“I’m glad you think so. Alejandro is finishing up our dinner. Hope you’re hungry.”
“Yes,” she nodded, seeing the empty tree in the corner. “Your tree is so nice. My housemates have a shitty tree.”
“Ghost has a tree?”
“No, we uh, stopped living together.”
“We didn’t know.”
“We haven’t told anyone, really,” Rose explained. “I moved out a while ago and live closer to Canal Street now.”
“If you want to stay the night so you don’t have to take the subway late, we’ve got the guest room ready,” Alejandro said, walking into the room with the wine she’d brought in.
“Sounds wonderful,” she said softly, taking a glass. “Salud!”
“Salud!” Rodolfo and Alejandro cheered, toasting along with her.
“What do you guys usually do for your tree?”
“We have these ornaments that Rudy inherited from his Abuelita that we like using,” Alejandro explained, pulling out a storage box. “We brought them with us from Las Almas, knowing that we couldn’t leave them behind.”
“Oh!” Rose exclaimed quickly walking over. “My Abuelita used to have these. I loved decorating her tree with them every Christmas. We also used to do popcorn wreaths at my other grandmother’s house. Those were always fun to make, too.”
“We can make some popcorn if you’d like to make a garland, what else do we need?”
“Well,” she started shyly. “I uh, kinda brought some stuff. My housemates already have their tree all set up and what I wanted to use didn’t go with their theme so…”
“Show us!” Rodolfo urged her excitedly. At his cheering, she pulled out some small plastic toys and a few more supplies. “They look like they go in a ball pit.”
“Yeah, that’s kinda it. Make a really big wreath with them,” she explained, pulling out her phone and showing them the inspiration photos. “I told the girls all about these and they encouraged me to try and make some. So, I thought we could all learn together.”
“I love it,” Alejandro beamed. “Let’s get the tree decorated and then we’ll work on that project together while we have dessert.”
“Really? You’re excited?”
“Yes,” he nodded. “We get to spend time with you, Rosita, that’s the best part,” the former colonel said warmly.
“Thank you,” she smiled. “What did you make for dinner?”
“Hice Pozole de chorizo y cerdo, should warm us right up.”
“Oh, that sounds so good,” Rose groaned. “Have you guys ever had pasteles?”
“No, but Emily mentioned that they’re like tamales?”
“Yes! Mom has a recipe for plantain pasteles that is fucking insane. I should teach you both how to make it. Mom usually stuffs them with pork, too.”
“Your English is better than your Spanish,” Rodolfo remarked.
“Yeah, I was born in Puerto Rico, and I went to school there for a bit. But I moved to the US at a young age. In order to blend in as much as possible, I was really stubborn about not learning Spanish,” she admitted sheepishly.
“It’s alright,” Rodolfo reassured her.
“Stella and Emily say that all the time. I can understand their conversations completely, but it’s hard to speak it at times because I always get nervous,” she admitted. “They never make me feel bad for responding in English.”
“They’re true friends,” Alejandro assured her.
“Yeah, they’re the best. I’m so lucky I met them online.”
“We are, too. They led us to you,” Rodolfo said, squeezing her hand. He leaned in, brushing a soft kiss to the corner of her mouth, smiling at her. After Thanksgiving, they’ve taken her on individual dates, and this was the first time they’ve been able to have a date as a trio. Things were looking well, and the pair was looking forward to a future with her in it.
“How have you been feeling?” Alejandro asked as he held out an ornament toward her.
“It’s a little overwhelming,” she admitted. “The idea of both of you wanting to pursue me is something I’m still wrapping my head around. Gaz has been wonderful in telling me how to handle things.”
“Good. We’ve been speaking to him, Sean, and David for advice.”
“I really appreciate how much you two communicate with each other, and with me,” she added. “I’ve only been with one other person who was like that, but it didn’t last long.”
“What happened?”
“I want kids, he doesn’t. Which, now that I think about it, I should ask you two the same thing,” she said, hanging her second ornament. “How do you feel about kids?”
“Oh, we want them,” Alejandro said firmly. “It’s been a rough few years since we retired before we finally settled into the city and the bar.”
“Really?”
“Yes,” Rodolfo answered, taking another ornament and hanging it. “We know we want more than one.”
“Good, because I want a big family, too,” Rose grinned, relief flooding her system. The idea of them also sharing the same thoughts she did eased her nerves. After her breakup with Simon, she wanted to make sure to communicate her expectations better in her next relationship. Things were already looking up. “A bunch of little kids running around the house.”
“Yes, that’s exactly what we want, too,” Alejandro said. “The pozole should be ready to go, do you want to have dinner now?”
“Yes, please,” Rose nodded. They continued toward the kitchen, where the table was set wonderfully for three. The food was amazing, and the company was better. Conversations flowed as they ate, getting to know each other with deep conversations and little details. Rose was surprised at their compatibility, getting excited at the prospect of a future with them.
It was everything she’d been hoping for. Her happy ending.
As they were all cleaning up the kitchen, Alejandro’s phone chirped loudly in the corner. He stared at the device, confused. I thought I put it in ‘Do not disturb while the others are at the party, he thought, reaching over to grab his phone after drying his hands. Soap was calling, repeatedly. “Un momento,” he said, ducking out into the bathroom and answering the phone. “Soap, what is it? We have Rosita over.”
“It’s an emergency. Come to the PMC.”
“What do you mean?”
“Stella’s missing.”
“Pinche mierda. We’ll be right there.”
Notes:
Translations:
Preciosa - Beautiful (in this context)
Gracias - Thank you
Salud - Cheers!
abuelita - grandmother
Hice pozole de chorizo y cerdo - I made chorizo and cerdo Pozole
Un momento - a moment please
Pinche mierda - Fucking hell
Chapter 18: Coquito
Summary:
Soap and Emily head to the beach before her big family party and bump into Simon.
Notes:
More of Soap and Emily in their Playing with Fire universe.
So at this point, they're still 'Fake Dating'.
Translations at the end like always.
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Soap and Emily were ready to go. After much of his insistence, they were taking a beach day before the big family party just a few nights away. Shortly after securing their parking around the street, they unloaded the car and headed into the malecón. Emily kept urging Soap to follow her, excited to show her the spot her family normally used when they came all the way up to Fajardo. Soap drank in the sun, the views, and really loved the feel of the wind in his hair and the smell of salt water.
It'd been days since they’d arrived, and he still hadn’t found a way to tell her how he felt. It was like a wall came up from her every time they had a moment where they could just be. Emily would always come up with something else to do or to say. He sighed as he followed her lead, eager to live in the moment with her.
“It’s so nice out! Just keep an eye out for jellyfish. If the water’s warm, they could be hiding,” Emily explained as they continued forward. “I don’t see any Jet skis running around today in the water, so hopefully we won’t be dealing with broken ones.”
“That happens?”
“Oh yeah, they suck in the jellyfish and tear it apart. If you’re unlucky, you can get stung with a portion of one.”
“Has that happened to you?”
“No, but I’ve heard of a friend of a friend who got stung in the back of her neck by a broken jellyfish,” Emily answered. “Her parents found the fragment just a few hours after she got stung.”
“Steamin’ bloody jesus,” Soap cursed.
“The word in Spanish is aguaviva. So, if you hear anyone scream that, run the other way,” Emily continued.
“How do ya know they’re in season?”
“My Abuelita always says it’s in the months that end in ‘bre’ so it’s all the way from September to December.” Soap took a moment to translate the months in his head and nodded. He continued forth, smiling at the families running around and celebrating before something, or rather, someone caught his eye. Emily seemed to notice him too, looking over her shoulder toward him. “Is that?”
“Looks like it,” Soap answered, standing beside her. “Without his mask, on the beach, just like he said.”
“He looks happy, too,” Emily remarked. “I wonder if he’s…” her voice trailed off as she spotted a brunette slowly approaching him from behind before tackling him into the water. The pair watched as they disappeared into the water only to come back out a split second later, Simon carrying her on his shoulders.
“That’s how you want to play it?” they heard his gruff voice tease. “Hold your breath, you’re going overboard!”
“No!” the brunette cried as he carefully threw her back. She shrieked before coming back up out of the water, shaking her head. “¡Carajo! ¡Esta fría!”
“I’ve never seen him act like that,” Soap said.
“He looks…really fucking happy,” Emily agreed as they reached a spot and dropped off their stuff. Simon looked to be engrossed in conversation with his companion, but he still caught their eye and waved. “Well, so much for him not seeing us.”
“I swear, he has eyes in the back o’ his head,” Soap sighed. “Want ta go say hi?”
“Yes!”
~~
“Are you sure you don’t want to go over and say hello?” Stella asked.
“They’re going to come over regardless, luv,” Simon said. “Emily’s nosy.”
“More than you?” she challenged, raising an eyebrow.
“Yes,” he answered. “More than I.”
“Well then,” she giggled. “Do you mind if I invite them over to the house later?”
“No, gives me time to talk to Johnny. He clearly hasn’t told her how he feels.”
“Oh! Those are the –”
“Yeah.”
“That just like-”
“Yeah.”
“Oh, dear. So, he’s aware and she’s…”
“Not even close.”
“Ah,” Stella said, watching them approach. “Well, let’s see if I can do anything to help.”
“Please,” Simon urged.
“Oi! Lt!” Soap’s voice called as he and Emily finally got close enough to talk. “Ya weren’t kiddin’ when you said you wanted ta spend time on the beach.”
“Hi I’m Emily!” Emily said approaching. “And this is?”
“This is Stella,” Simon introduced her proudly. “My fiancé,” he declared. Stella stared at him in shock, elated that he said it so proudly.
“Wait, but you never told us you had a girlfriend.”
“I’m private with my life, Emily. You know that well enough. While you’re a great friend, there are some things I like to keep to myself while on the job. Stella was one of them.”
“Oh,” she said, slightly disappointed.
“I wanted to keep her safe from the chaos we deal with. Especially since she’s been retired for quite a few years now.”
“You were on the job?” Soap asked.
“Yeah, I took a harsh blow to the head a few years ago and decided that it was better to hang it up before someone does it for me,” Stella answered. She took Simon’s hand in hers and squeezed it before turning to the pair.
“Emily’s the one I discuss romance novels with,” Simon then elaborated, everyone slowly wading into the water further.
“I meant to tell you!” she said. “I started reading the superhero rom-com you recommended and while I’m not done with it yet, I absolutely love it! The bilingual aspects of the book make me really happy, and I am enjoying how cozy it all is.”
“Really?” Stella asked, glancing at Simon for a moment. He was glowing with pride, squeezing her hand under the water.
“Yes! I can’t wait to read the next book even if I’m not done with this one. I really love the world she’s created here.”
“Who do you think would be the next book?”
“Oh, it has to be the Martian girl with Alex’s brother, no doubt.”
“Huh,” Stella said, amused. “I hadn’t even thought about that. That’s a good one.”
“You’ve read the book too?” Emily asked excitedly.
“Way too many times, I wrote it,” she laughed.
“Oh, my god!” she squealed. “Really?”
“Yeah, M. Towers is my pen name.”
“Now I regret not getting a physical copy because I would love for you to sign it for me.”
“I’ve got copies and swag at home, you’re welcome to come over with Johnny and have dinner with us. I have a house not too far from here.”
“Really?”
“Yeah, Simon and I walked here,” Stella explained.
“John, do you mind?”
“Not at all, princess,” he answered. “I think it’d be great.”
“Awesome, Simon can cook us dinner while I work on the coquito I need to produce,” Stella said.
“Wait, you make coquito?” Emily asked, surprised.
“I do, my bisabuela’s recipe. I just made a few tweaks to expand the flavors.”
“Could you teach me?”
“Yeah. Not a problem. I actually need to make some bottles specifically for Olivia.”
“Laswell’s wife?” Soap asked.
“Yeah, she won’t serve anything other than my Nutella coquito for Christmas anymore. Hoards two virgin bottles for herself and shares the rest during their small holiday get together,” Stella answered. The conversations continued to flow through as Stella got to know Soap and Emily better. They made a cute couple, and she was sure that with a nudge in the right direction, Emily would stop denying it. She clearly had feelings for him, but she was still holding onto something else.
~~
After a few hours of soaking up the sun and enjoying their time on the beach together, Stella lead Soap and Emily toward her house. They parked in the extra space on her driveway, drinking in the Santa that decorated the yard before washing off the sand and heading inside. Simon quickly busied himself by preparing their dinner while Stella got wrapped up showing Emily how to make coquito. Soap joined Simon outside while the girls got to work.
Stella gave Emily a sample of her last batch, and she moaned at the taste. It was rich, creamy, and everything a good Coquito should be. “Holy shit. What’s your secret?”
“I use homemade vanilla for my basic recipe,” Stella explained, pulling out her bottle from the pantry.
“You make your own?”
“Yep, never bought from the store since I saw how easy it is.”
“Holy shit,” Emily said, opening the bottle and taking a deep breath. “Carajo. Eso huele cabrón.”
“También hago de pistacho.”
“Necesito como tres botellas de eso. Tengo una tía que se muere por él and she’s super picky.”
“I gotchu. Tengo una nevera en la marquesina que tiene botellas extras.”
“¿Tú las vendes?”
“Yeah, except for Kate and Olivia.”
“Understandable,” Emily said.
“I have to express ship those tomorrow, so they get there on time. Kate pays for the shipping because I ship them in a cooler, with ice packs, and all the fun stuff to make sure it doesn’t go bad.”
“What don’t you send?”
“Pasteles.”
“Fair enough,” Emily laughed as they got to work together on making coquito. “Gracias por enseñarme cómo hacer coquito.”
“Pues claro,” Stella said. “I’m so glad you love my book so far.”
“I do!” she gushed. “Simon and I talk about romance novels a lot on base after he caught me reading Lauren Asher on my e-reader one night during dinner.”
“Which book?”
“Redeemed.”
“Santi’s my favorite.”
“I love Liam, but I totally see the Santi love.”
“Good,” Stella said softly as they let the blender run for a while longer. “Book two is the speedster and the best friend.”
“You know what? I thought that was going to be down the road.”
“You’ll see why by the end.”
“I’m so excited now,” Emily grinned.
“It’s in revisions now, due out in a few months. While that’s blending, let me go get you a swag package,” Stella said, disappearing for a moment. She slowly made her way upstairs, ducking into her guest room and searching for what she was looking for on the shelves. After signing the copy with Emily’s name and packaging it up, Stella walked back downstairs. “Here you go, wrapped it up and everything.”
“You didn’t have to!”
“I wanted to, now don’t open it up yet.”
“We should be done with dinner soon, dove,” Simon said as he peeked into the kitchen.
“We’re almost done with these last few bottles. We should be good,” Stella said as she and Emily packaged the last of their coconut Christmas drink. “So, to recap. You’re taking three pistachio, one Nutella, and two regular?” Stella asked as she tracked the totals on her fridge board.
“Yeah,” Emily nodded.
“I’ll bring any leftover to your place in Old San Juan to toast for the New Year.”
“Sounds perfect. Thank you again so much for this.”
“You’re welcome. You’re friends with Simon, you’re good in my book.”
“How did you two meet anyway?”
“On a job, actually. We kept bumping into each other and then I told him he should come here to stay in my guest room,” Stella answered. “He came back a few times, we got to know each other pretty fucking well until one night we ended up having sex.”
“How the fuck does that come up?”
“I was reading a book; he was playing with my Switch in the living room, and he caught me squirming. Talk about awkward. I explained the gist of it, he read the scene, we are both consenting adults, so he got me off. It was fucking amazing.”
“That was more information about Simon than I think I needed to know.”
“Anyway,” Stella said, trying to shift into the subject Emily had been avoiding the whole time they’d been talking. “We decided to keep going. Friends with benefits arrangement.”
“Until it wasn’t.”
“Yeah. We didn’t really talk about when it changed. Since he was still on the job most times, it was easier to not address it and make it more than it could be until he told me he wanted to try and make it real.”
“How did you feel about it?”
“I wanted it to be real, too,” Stella said. “He’d come with me to family events and such, too.”
“Really?”
“Yeah, everyone loved him. I did, too. He and I made sense. As friends and as lovers, why not give it a full try?”
“And now you’re engaged.”
“Yeah,” Stella grinned. “It’s not my story to tell, but he can definitely explain why during dinner.”
“How did he propose?” Emily asked. Stella pressed her lips together, trying to gauge what she knew of his retirement.
“I told her I was done with the job,” Simon answered as he came in with Soap.
“What?” Soap asked. “You’re done.”
“I’m done.”
“But we have the-”
“Civilian here, need to know only,” Stella cut her off, grabbing some of the coquito bottles and darting to the garage to put them away.
“I know. And I don’t want to do it anymore. I would rather be with her than have her worrying about whether I’m coming home next deployment or not,” Simon explained.
“So, she took your retirement as a proposal?”
“Yes, because it is,” he answered. “You both know me well enough. Other than the job, I never really gave my future any thought. Retiring shows that now I do. I see a future, with her.”
“Damn, that’s actually kinda romantic when you put it that way,” Emily muttered. Soap looked at his friend, still trying to process the news. Years working side by side and now he was seeing a completely different side to the man he knew. “So, you’re not leaving with us then?”
“No. I’m stayin’ here,” Simon answered with a small smile. “You and the team have got it handled. I trust you. By the way, Johnny, you’re my best man. You know that, right?”
“Really?” he asked, stunned.
“Yeah, we don’t know the date yet, but I’ll let you know. The whole team is invited.”
“Thanks,” Emily said softly.
“Are we eating or what? Pookie’s hungry,” Stella said as she came back. Simon chuckled, nodding.
“Let’s eat.”
Notes:
Translations:
bisabuela - great grandmother
abuelita - grandmother
Eso huele cabrón - that smells fucking amazing.
También hago de pistacho - I also make pistacho flavored.
“Necesito como tres botellas de eso. Tengo una tía que se muere por él - I need like three bottles of that. I have an aunt that goes crazy for it.
“I gotchu. Tengo una nevera en la marquesina que tiene botellas extras.” - I have a fridge in the garage that has my extra bottles.
“¿Tú las vendes?” - You sell them?
Pasteles - kinda like a tamale but Puerto Rican style
Chapter 19: Deck the Halls
Summary:
Simon arrives at Stella's home for his leave and realizes she hasn't decorated yet. As much as he doesn't care for the holidays, she does.
So he does something about it.
Notes:
This one's detached from all of my current AUs though it does feature some repeated elements you've seen around here.
Simon and Stella in this one.
Chapter Text
It’d been a long day for Simon. After he’d been given the all-clear by Kate, he headed to Puerto Rico instead of home. Soap had been urging him to come down so they could spend time for the holidays together, but he didn’t want that. Something in his system called out to be around Stella instead. So, he followed his gut and got a plane ticket to the island.
After the Uber dropped him off, he let himself in with the spare key she always left out for him. Simon eyed the empty entrance hallway, surprised that she hadn’t decorated yet for the holidays. As much as he was ambivalent to the season because of his history, Stella still decorated the house. He thought she just hadn’t gotten the outside done yet, but the inside looked just as void of holiday cheer. She usually had a tree in the corner of her living room, twinkling lights on the staircase, and some little wreaths and garlands here and there.
Why hasn’t she decorated? he thought, looking around. Simon slowly made his way upstairs, trying to figure out what was going on. Her car wasn’t on the driveway, so she wasn’t home. He had the house to himself for a little while longer. As he reached the primary bedroom, where he usually stayed nowadays, more worrying thoughts filled his head.
They weren’t a couple, but they were intimate more often than not. Simon refused to address that things were deeper than what it looked like on the surface because he was a stubborn ass. Feelings weren’t on the manual. Stella seemed mostly content with the way things were, at least she hadn’t communicated anything otherwise. She was usually vocal about other things.
Like what she didn’t like in bed.
Simon’s eyes raked over the primary bedroom, feeling something in the air. It felt, stale. Like it hadn’t breathed in a while. The curtains were drawn, her gaming PC was sleeping in the corner, and her hamper was loaded with clothes. As he worked his way downstairs, the kitchen looked the same. Things were tidy but nothing felt right.
The calendar she kept on the fridge hadn’t been flipped over to December either.
He didn’t like it. This wasn’t Stella. Something was bothering her.
And was damn certain he was going to fix it, somehow.
With his mind made up, Simon made his way back upstairs, looking through the guest room storage closet and finding the boxes that held her decorations. Slowly, he started cleaning up and adding the holiday décor. Every movement was careful as he made sure to hang the lights right, putting up the garlands where he remembered seeing the year before, and more. He opened the balcony door for a moment to let some fresh air in before changing the bedsheets and putting in a new duvet over Stella’s comfy bed. Spent time making sure everything in the kitchen was spotless.
Everything looked refreshed, and there was finally some holiday cheer in the home. Simon kept himself busy cleaning up the rest of the house, the motions distracting him as he tried to figure out what could be affecting Stella so much. It unsettled him, unease brewing in his gut as he saw her behavior as a reflection of his own when he was on lows. It was jarring to even think about his ray of sunshine being so depressed.
The sun set as he finished up loading the washer with the last load of laundry, a combination of their clothes since he needed to clean up some stuff anyway. Simon slowly made his way back to the front of the house, seeing Stella’s headlights fill in the space as she pulled into her driveway. His heart suddenly started beating frantically in his chest as he fussed about whether she’d like what he’d done. All she needed was a tree and the front yard decorations to go up, but the hardest part was over.
Stella cut the engine, the lights coming off as she started toward the front door. Aside from the tinnitus ringing loudly in his ears, the only other sound was the gate closing before she inserted the key into the lock.
“Thank God, I…” she started, frozen in place as her chocolate eyes caught everything at once. The banisters had their lights, the garlands were in the right spots. “What the fuck?” she whispered, taking off her shoes and jumping at the sight of Simon in the hallway. “You decorated,” her voice cracked.
“I did,” he said softly, slowly making his way over to her. Her gaze followed his movements, fresh tears brimming in her eyes as he drew closer. “Sweetheart, what’s wrong?”
“A lot,” she admitted, taking a deep breath so she didn’t burst into tears.
“I’m sorry,” Simon said, his voice gentle as he tried to soothe her. “I’m here now,” he continued, brushing his fingers across her cheek as he cradled her face gently in his hand.
“Why did you decorate? You hate Christmas.”
“You don’t,” he answered brushing his thumb across her freckles. “And when I came in, something didn’t feel right. Figured decorating would help.”
“It…it does,” she sniffled.
“I also changed the bedsheets and did some cleaning around the house.”
“Thank you.”
“Want to order some pizza and watch Die Hard?”
“Yeah, that sounds like a good idea.”
“Do you want to take a bath before we order food?”
“That would be nice,” Stella said meekly. Simon softly brushed his lips against her forehead, relieved when he heard a content sigh escape her lips. He draped an arm around her waist, leading her upstairs to the bedroom. “Thank you for doing all this for me.”
“You’re welcome, glad I could be of help,” he said softly. As much as he loathed to admit it, there was a warmth brewing in his chest. He couldn’t deny he cared for her, not anymore. Not after this. But he wasn’t in love.
Not a chance in hell.
Chapter 20: ¡Parranda!
Summary:
John and Stella are settling in for the night when they get startled by a surprise visit.
Notes:
Replaced the prompt list I found with something a little more unique to me and my culture.
So Smoke and Stars Price and Stella get a revisit for the first time in a while. Enjoy!
Chapter Text
John beamed as he settled onto the plush couch for the night. After a day with good food, incredible company, and the beach, the captain was waiting for his beloved girlfriend to return to the living room so they could watch a holiday film. Stella finally appeared, grinning as she set a bowl of popcorn on the sectional.
“You look relaxed,” he said softly, pulling her close.
“You do, too,” Stella said, leaning in and pecking his cheek. A sound outside alerted them both, their gazes turning to the covered front window.
“Asalto!” yelled out a chorus of voices outside before breaking into song.
“Starlight?”
“Oh, fuck,” she groaned, getting up from the couch. “I’m going to kill whoever decided to do this,” she said, slowly making her way through to the front door. John followed after her, cursing whoever was outside to interrupt their cozy night in. He watched as she opened the door, eyes widening as he caught the crowd in front of her gate playing instruments. It took him a moment to recognize his own team among the crowd, Simon standing in the far back, unenthusiastically clapping his hands while Gaz and Soap were having the time of their life. “They dragged Simon into this,” she whispered in mild disbelief.
“They did,” he said, recognizing the lead singer in the front. “Emily.”
“Who’s that?”
“Soap’s girlfriend. They met on a job a while back.”
“Oh,” Stella said before sighing. “Get some chips and dip ready. We have to enterain them for a bit before they head off to their next destination.”
“Truly?”
“It’s tradition,” she answered, grabbing her keys. “I think their cars are parked around the road.”
“Bloody hell, how long will they be here?”
“I don’t know. This is the first parranda I ever receive at this house.”
“I’ll get the backyard ready,” John said as the crowd started singing another song. Stella slowly made her way toward the pedestrian gate, opening it and letting them all pass through. Soap and Gaz continued to sing their way toward the house, while Simon still hung back.
“They dragged you into this.”
“Blame Emily,” he sighed. “The only reason I’m here is because they promised I’d get to see you,” he admitted.
“How’s the Airbnb?”
“Crowded. I miss the quiet. I have my bags in the car.”
“You want to stay here with John and I?”
“You don’t mind?”
“No,” Stella answered as she felt a familiar presence behind her. “We’d love to have you here.” Her voice was soft as she reached over, grasping his hand and squeezing it.
“Yes, if you’d like to stay with us instead, please,” John said, putting his hands over theirs. “Do so. We’ve missed you.”
“Thanks,” Simon said softly, smiling under the mask. The music kicked in louder inside the house as Simon took off his mask, swallowing thickly in the chilly oceanside air. “I uh,” he started, taking a deep breath. “I’ve missed you both, too,” he admitted. “I know you’ve decided to take a long vacation from work and…”
“Stay as long as you want,” Stella said, looking over to John. He nodded, smiling as she wrapped her arms around her fellow Lieutenant and held onto him tightly. She rested her chin on his chest as she looked up at him, her brown eyes twinkling with a little mischief. “You can even crash on our king-size bed with us. There’s room for you, too,” she added. The words sank in, and he quickly focused on his captain in mild shock at the implication.
“She’s right,” John agreed. “We would both love to have you with us. The choice is yours if you’re willing to take us.”
“Truly?” he asked, barely above a whisper.
“Yeah,” Stella answered. “We wanted to invite you over with us, but then Soap basically tugged you away from sight after John and I got the all-clear before you three.” Simon sighed, resting his forehead against hers. John wrapped an arm around the pair, kissing Simon’s cheek as the ruckus inside the house faded away.
“Bloody hell, this feels nice,” Simon admitted.
“Get your things, we’ll settle you in upstairs while everyone’s distracted in the backyard.”
“Rog,” he said, flashing a keyfob. “Good thing I took Emily’s keys,” he chuckled, pulling away and starting toward the waiting car with a pep in his step. He’d admired them so long rom afar, he hadn’t even thought they’d accept him or his feelings.
For once in his life, Simon was elated that he’d been proven wrong.
Chapter 21: Secret Santa
Summary:
It's Friendmas and Simon is nervous about his Secret Santa present.
Notes:
Hey everyone! Still here, working on these. Holiday and the call center queue has gotten the better of me but I can't wait to finish this because I have ideas for the remaining prompts.
This one is Christmas where Simon and Stella put their feelings for each other on hold, kinda similar to The Assistant, but instead of Simon realizing his feelings and confessing how he does in the fic, he confesses the holiday before the fic even starts.
I've been cooking with a lot of ideas lately.
Chapter Text
Simon fussed around the restaurant, sighing. Stella looked like she was having the worst Christmas of all time. Mostly sulking in corners, keeping to herself, practically withdrawn from the group. Something had to be bothering her. They were close, once, and in the last few years they’d put distance between each other.
Tonight, he’d hoped things would change.
Over the last few days, he’d been thinking about how much he missed being so close to her. When he talked about it with his therapist, Sullivan, he’d realized that the feelings he had for her were still there. He now knew how to handle himself and was finally ready to try and be with her. By some cosmic chance, during the preparations for their Friendmas, he’d gotten Stella for their Secret Santa. Shopping for her was a delight, having spent a lot of time in Kinokuniya making sure he grabbed the pens and highlighters he knew that she liked. He’d been able to get a lot and stay right under budget, enough to get one more little detail.
A bag of Dove chocolates.
Innocent to their friends, but hopefully not to her. If she still felt the same way, she’d know what they meant.
He watched as she fussed over her phone, checking it constantly. The only other time he’d ever remembered her being that fussy over her device was when she was waiting for him. Ricardo. The bastard who would constantly lead her on, break her heart, and then do it all over again. She said she was done with him, why was she hanging onto her phone for him again?
Because you told her to wait, the little voice in his head reminded him. Simon sighed as he grabbed a cookie, starting toward her. He wanted to give her the present now, but Emily liked keeping things on schedule, so it was better to play along with things for now. Simon cleared his throat, watching how she turned toward him. He hated the haunted look in her eyes, like she was clinging to the hope of something she knew in her heart wasn’t going to come to pass, but she needed to have hope in something. Even if it was on the wrong person.
“Hey,” Simon said softly, standing close to her.
“Hi,” she said, her tone distant.
“Waiting for somethin’?” he tested.
“N-no.”
Gods, you’re still the worst liar, he thought, swallowing thickly. “How’ve you been with the new job?”
“Busy, dealing with an asshole,” she murmured with a loaded sigh.
“He can’t be that bad,” Simon said, watching how she seemed to glare daggers into Price’s back. He shrugged it off for the time being, his primary focus being on her. How he wanted her to feel better, remind her that she wasn’t alone. She had him.
“Yeah, he is, but I think I can handle him. I’ve dealt with worse.”
“I know that for a fact,” Simon said, standing next to her.
“It’s time to exchange presents!” Emily cried. Simon couldn’t hold back his sigh of relief, glancing over to Stella to see how she was doing.
“I can’t wait to see who you got,” she said, a half-smile fleeting across her lips.
I can’t wait to see the look on your face either, Simon thought, following her to the table. Alejandro had set up a private area for all of them for their lunch, a full spread that had been prepared between him and Emily right at the center of it all. Stella had made dessert again, but it wasn’t her usual fare. She’d made only one cake. Emily had been concerned about her friend all day but with everything going on around them, she couldn’t check in with her like she wanted.
“Okay, so we’re going to start of with, me,” Emily said, picking up her present from the table. “I got Kate,” she said, handing it over.
“Thank you, Emily,” Kate said, smiling as she opened up the gift bag and took a peek inside. She grinned as she pulled out an engraved water bottle, adorned with her initials. “This is wonderful. Olivia was dying to get my last one replaced,” she grinned.
“I’m so glad!” Emily smiled. “Who did you get?”
“Kyle,” she said, grabbing her gift and sliding it over. He quickly opened it and grinned, seeing some new filament for his 3D printer.
“Thank you, Laswell, I’m going to have so much fun with this,” he said with a smile. “Alejandro,” Gaz continued, passing his present over. Their exchanges continued, with Alejandro giving Soap his present, Soap moving onto Price, before he passed a gift over to Rodolfo, and Rudy handed Emily her present.
“Wait, Simon and Stella got each other?” Emily said, as she realized who hadn’t exchanged their presents yet.
“Looks like it,” Soap said, glancing over to the former Lieutenant. He looked nervous, completely out of character for the soldier. Simon carefully passed his present on over to Stella, taking a deep breath and hoping things went well. If she didn’t understand it, he’d have to be completely open about his wants. He was teetering on the edge of his nerves, hoping she still understood him even without him saying it out loud.
“Let’s see,” Stella said, pressing her lips together as she moved the tissues aside. Her eyes caught all of the pens and highlighters in her favorite hues. Simon smiled as he could see the scrunch of her nose, the delighted twinkle in her eyes as she pulled the stationery items out. “My favorites,” she whispered, rolling them over the table. “Thank you.”
“There’s more,” Simon said, his throat bobbing as he swallowed back his nerves. “At the bottom.”
“Oh? Let me,” she said, tilting the bag and moving more of the decorative paper aside. “Chocolates,” Stella said, reading the name on the packaging. “Dove-” her voice stopped, frozen in place as the word sank in. Dove. Her gaze snapped up, meeting Simon’s eyes. Their friends watched, confused but invested as they watched who they considered the most unlikely pair have a silent exchange of words.
“Stella you-”
“Shhh,” Soap said, covering Emily’s mouth. Simon nodded silently in response to her unspoken question, his heart racing as he waited for her response. Stella threw her arms around him, burying her face into his neck as she sobbed. Alejandro moved quickly, darting over.
“The door to the stairs are over there,” he said softly, pointing it out toward Simon.
“Thanks,” he said softly, scooping Stella up into his arms and slowly making his way over.
“What the fuck just happened?” Emily asked as Soap uncovered her mouth once Simon and Stella were out of sight.
“We have to wait for them to tell us,” Soap answered. “But I’m just as invested as you are.”
~~
Simon carefully helped Stella down to her feet, taking deep breaths to steady himself. The reaction wasn’t what he was expecting, but the way she’d held onto him gave him hope that maybe he was misunderstanding her cries. Finally, after a few long and quiet minutes, Stella pulled back, taking one deep breath after another before speaking up at last. There were too many feelings at once. Joy, disbelief, anxiety. She didn't know where to even start with her words. After everything, there was only one sure thing she wanted to say.
“Yes,” she gasped out. “Yes!” Simon’s heart soared at her affirmation, cradling her face in his hands as their eyes met. “I’ve missed you so much.”
“Me too,” he whispered. “S-Sullivan asked about you last appointment and then somethin’-somethin’ kicked into me, and I started talkin’ about how much I missed being around you, how much I longed to be close to you again and it all fell into place in my head. I-I knew I had to tell you, because I’m ready. I-If you’ll have me.”
“Yes,” Stella nodded, clutching his sweater. “God, Simon. I’ve been waiting for Ricardo to show up all day because I’ve been feeling so lonely and I didn’t want to put that on you,” she whimpered, resting her head against his chest.
“Sweetheart, I thought you were done with him.”
“Simon, I needed hope in something,” she whispered. “And I told you I’d respect your space until you came to me.”
“Thank you, dove,” he whispered, shifting to meet her gaze again. “Want to go out with me for dinner tomorrow night?”
“Why not tonight? Come home with me,” Stella whispered softly. “I’ve waited years for you, Simon, don’t make me wait one more night,” she sniffled. “Not after dropping that on me.” He nodded, kissing her forehead.
“Fair enough, sweetheart,” he murmured, holding her close. Gods, he’d missed the feel of holding her. He held onto her tightly, taking her in for a moment longer before her stomach decided to make her hunger known. “How long has it been since you last ate? Your stomach normally isn’t that vocal unless you’ve been neglecting your needs,” he said, narrowing his eyes.
“I haven’t been eating much today since I’ve been wondering if Ricardo is going to show or not.”
“Did he buy a plane ticket this time?”
“I don’t know and frankly, I don’t care,” Stella answered. “The only reason I was going mental at the idea of him was because it was yet another Christmas where I couldn’t have you. And it’s been hell dealing with Price at work.”
“Wait, you’re workin’ with Laswell?”
“Yeah,” Stella sniffled as Simon helped her dry her eyes with his sweater. It all suddenly clicked in his head, Kate’s new assistant that John didn’t like at all because she was difficult.
“Why didn’t you say anything?”
“Because I can handle it,” she insisted.
“I know you can, luv, you dealt with worse shite at the law firm. I haven’t forgotten that,” Simon said, brushing his thumbs back and forth over her freckles. “But you know we can help, if not them, then ask me,” he reminded her. “Come on, let’s go back in there so we can feed you and then we can go back to your place.”
“Please,” Stella whispered. Reluctantly, he released her, turning her around so they could step back into the restaurant and spend some more time with their friends. Just before he opened the door, Simon took her hand in his, lacing their fingers together.
“We only tell Em we met before they did?” he asked her.
“Yeah,” Stella nodded. “That works for me. The rest can come when I’m ready.”
“That works for me, too,” Simon agreed as they stepped back into the restaurant. Their friends quickly glanced at the pair, Emily’s gaze narrowing in on their joined hands. “Sorry about that,” he started.
“How long have you two felt like that?” Emily blurted out.
“Years, we’d had a talk about putting feelings on hold just before you met Soap,” Stella answered.
“And today?”
“I told her I was ready to be with her. I’d been goin’ through a lot at the time we had the talk.”
“You’re serious,” Emily said, moving closer to them. “Because –”
“I know about Ricardo and trust me. I would never put her through that,” Simon cut her off. “I already put her through hell once when we fought years ago. When I came back and apologized, I vowed I’d stay. I may have put distance between us because I wanted to focus on myself for a while, but I have never ignored her when she’s needed me. I took care of ‘er when her grandfather died,” he argued. Emily’s eyes widened at the revelation, nodding to herself.
“Fair enough,” she said.
“And you,” he nearly growled, glancing at his former captain. “She just started workin’ with Kate. Don’t make things harder for her than they absolutely need to be.” Price pressed his lips together, avoiding the former lieutenant’s fiery gaze. Everyone else on the table focused on him, Kate grinning smugly from her setting in the corner.
“I’ll be nicer,” Price mumbled begrudgingly.
“Thank you,” Simon said, squeezing her hand. “Now let’s eat. Stella’s hungry.”
“I am, too,” Gaz said, grinning at his friends. “Rosie’s missed another eventful holiday,” he added.
“I really hope we can meet her soon,” Rodolfo said. “The way you all speak about her, she sounds wonderful.”
“She is,” Stella said softly. “You’ll love her.”
argella1300 on Chapter 2 Mon 02 Dec 2024 03:35PM UTC
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argella1300 on Chapter 9 Tue 10 Dec 2024 03:24PM UTC
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