Getting The Falcon Role- Danny Ramirez

Getting the Falcon Role- Danny Ramirez

Description: Danny gets exciting news regarding his career and the first person he delivers it is his wife.

Warnings: None, Pure fluff

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“I made you some breakfast so you can take it with you. Try to eat something before the audition,” I say, standing in the doorway of the bathroom, watching Danny focus on his reflection in the mirror.

A few seconds pass in silence. His brow is furrowed in concentration as he struggles to get his hair just right. I step closer, reaching out to smooth the back of his head, and press a light kiss where his neck meets his shoulder.

“You’re going to do great… Don’t stress about it. They’ve worked with you before, and they know how talented you are,” I reassure him softly.

“Yeah, I know,” he replies, his voice coming out almost too cockily, with a hint of bravado that doesn’t quite mask his underlying anxiety.

I catch his eye in the mirror, giving him a teasing look. It only takes a moment for him to notice and turn to face me.

“I’m sorry. I’m so nervous I could shit my pants right now. I don’t even know what I’m doing with this,” he says, gesturing vaguely to his hair. I raise an eyebrow—he looks perfectly fine to me.

“Alright, sit down. I’ll handle it for you,” I offer.

He sits obediently, allowing me to stand between his legs to get a better angle on his damp hair.

“Just don’t use too much product, okay? I want it to look natural,” he murmurs.

“I’ve got it,” I assure him. A couple of minutes pass in silence before he speaks again.

“Babe, I don’t want it to look too neat. Don’t overdo it,” he insists, his nerves peeking through.

“I’m not overdoing it. Just relax,” I reply calmly.

Another couple of minutes pass before he interrupts again.

“Can I see? I just want to—”

“Danny! Can you please let me finish?” I interject, laughing. “I’m literally two curls away from being done. Chill! I’ve done this a thousand times.”

That’s enough to silence him, though I can tell it takes some effort. When I finally step back and let him see the finished result, he breaks into a reluctant smile, realizing he has no complaints.

Ten minutes later, he’s ready to leave, having spritzed on some cologne and put on his wedding ring along with the two chains he always wears.

He doesn't want to eat, but he won’t refuse the breakfast I made, even if I know he won’t touch it until after the audition.

Before he leaves, we say a quick prayer—something he’s grown accustomed to over the six years we’ve been together.

I pull him into a tight hug, wishing him all the luck in the world, then rise on my tiptoes to give him a few light kisses. He thanks me, still holding me close, and before stepping back, he gives me one more kiss, deeper and more lingering.

“I’ll let you know how it goes. I love you,” he says, his voice filled with sincerity.

“I love you, too,” I respond with a smile as I walk him to the door, watching him until he disappears into the elevator.

Hours later, we speak on the phone. His voice is noticeably more relaxed and cheerful than it was this morning.

“I think I’ve got a good chance. They had a lot of positive things to say, you know? And Sam told me the role is pretty much mine. But I don’t know… I don’t want to get my hopes up. Or maybe just a little,” he says, grinning at me through the phone camera. I can’t help but smile back.

“I mean, if Sam said it, why wouldn’t we believe him, right?” I reply encouragingly.

“But we could just be delulu right now. Sam loves me. That’s definitely something he’d say,” Danny laughs.

“Who cares? Let’s be delulu, then. Nobody can play that role better than you.”

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Time passes by and Danny keeps working harder every single day. New projects keep coming his way, and he is profoundly grateful for every opportunity. After so many years of navigating an industry with limited roles for Latinx actors, this is a major breakthrough.

Nearly four months after the audition, he finally receives the news he had been waiting for during a meeting with the production team and his agent.

As soon as Danny steps out of the building, a surge of adrenaline pushes him forward. He sprints down the bulding, his heart pounding in sync with his racing thoughts. He hardly notices the people he weaves through, the city blurring around him as he focuses solely on getting home. When he reaches our front door, he bursts through with such force that the door almost bangs against the wall. His bag slips from his shoulder and thuds to the floor, forgotten in his excitement.

“(Y/N)! Baby, where are you?!” he calls out, his voice carrying a mix of exhilaration and urgency.

I don’t hear him at first. I’m in the studio, headphones on, fully immersed in the process of layering tracks, the bass reverberating through me. It’s only when I catch a faint sound through the music—a distant, frantic shout—that I pause, lifting one earphone.

He bursts into the office/studio, his face flushed, eyes bright with an intensity I haven’t seen in a while. I swivel around in my chair, startled by his sudden entrance.

“What’s up? Are you okay?” I ask, concern flickering in my eyes as I take in his breathless state. Before I can react, he scoops me up from my chair, lifting me off the ground with an unexpected burst of strength. I gasp, caught off guard, my hands instinctively clutching his shoulders.

“I got the part! They just told me! I’m going to be the Falcon, (Y/N)!” he exclaims, his voice a mix of disbelief and euphoria, the words tumbling out in a rush.

“Wait, what?” I blink, trying to process what he’s just said. My eyes widen as his words sink in. “You got it?! Shut up!”

“I got it, baby!” he shouts again, his joy utterly infectious. A laugh bursts out of me—a mixture of relief, pride, and sheer happiness—as I wrap my legs around his waist. I pull his face down to mine, capturing his lips in a quick, jubilant kiss.

“I knew it! I told you you’d get it!” I whisper breathlessly against his lips, my fingers running through his hair. “There’s no one better for the role than you. You have no idea how proud I am of you.”

He grins so wide it lights up his entire face, his eyes glistening with emotion. He presses his forehead against mine, letting out a shaky breath before leaving a tender kiss on the tip of my nose.

“I still can’t believe it,” he says, his voice softer now, as if speaking any louder would shatter the moment. “This is such a big deal. I have to call Mom, Glen, Paola...” He starts listing names, his excitement bubbling over.

“Do you want to make a list?” I tease, a laugh escaping me as I watch him roll his eyes playfully, still wearing that incredible smile. “Call them. They’ll be over the moon.”

“Yeah, I’m going to do that. I can’t wait to see Glenn’s reaction.” He chuckles, heading towards the door but stops mid-step, spinning around again.

“Oh, and Sam wants to celebrate tonight with some of the team. Maybe go out for drinks or dinner. You’ll come, right?”

“Absolutely,” I reply, my smile mirroring his. “I should be done with work in a couple of hours, and then I’m all yours.”

“Okay.” He smiles again and as he reaches the door; his body turns around and walks back to where I still stand, wrapping his arms around me one more time. His voice softens, “Thank you for being my rock through all of this. I really appreciate all your support.”

I hug him tightly, feeling the warmth of his words. “I wouldn’t want to be anywhere else. Te amo (I love you)."

“Yo también te amo (I love you too),” he whispers, his voice thick with emotion.

He finally leaves to go tell the others, and I watch him go with my heart still full of excitement for what this meant for him.

In Your Embrace- Joseph Quinn

Description: Joe has a rough day at work, but at the end of the day he gets to unwind and distract himself with the only person he would rather spend time with.

Word count: 1772

Warnings: None, Pure Fluff

Joe had only been home for about an hour, still shaking off the exhaustion of a long day filled with back-to-back meetings and endless tasks. He hadn’t had a moment to reach out to Y/N, the one person who could always make him feel grounded. Now, finally settled in bed, he picked up his phone and scrolled through his apps, feeling the quiet of his apartment settle around him.

It was just before 9:30 p.m., their usual time to reconnect when the chaos of the day would finally quiet down. With a tired but eager sigh, Joe tapped on the FaceTime icon. A wave of anticipation mixed with the weariness still clinging to him as he waited for her face to appear on the screen. 

Y/N had just stepped out of the shower when her phone rang. She wrapped a towel around herself, glancing at the screen before answering the call. Her hair, still damp, clung to her cheeks, and she greeted him with a soft smile. "Hiiii," she said, showing just half of her face through the camera, her eyes narrowing in that familiar way when she smiled.

Joe appeared on her screen, a small grin tugging at his lips. “Hey, love,” he greeted, his voice warm but edged with noticeable tiredness. He could see she was still finishing up her routine, her usual products on sight.

“Do you want me to call you back later?” he asked softly, noticing she was still getting dressed. His tone was gentle, trying not to rush her.

Y/N quickly shook her head. “No, it’s alright. I’m nearly done,” she replied, disappearing from the screen momentarily to pull on some clothes. Her voice was slightly muffled as she added, “How are you? How’s your day been?”

Joe’s smile faded a bit, and he let out a small sigh, his accent a little thicker, making his words sound heavier. “It was alright,” he said vaguely, his tone subdued. “Just thought I’d call you before you go to bed.”

When Y/N returned to view, her body fully in the frame now, she noticed the shift in his expression. “Did something happen? You seem a bit off,” she pressed gently, a playful yet concerned lilt to her voice as she searched his face through the screen.

Joe shook his head, trying to make himself comfortable, shifting his position on the bed while keeping his gaze fixed on her. “I’m fine, don’t worry about it. Just tell me about your day,” There was a hint of effort in his voice, as if he were trying too hard to sound casual.

Though not entirely convinced, Y/N decided to play along. She began recounting the events of her day, adding in some of the gossip they both enjoyed. Joe’s lips curved into a small smile, his dimples deepening whenever he laughed softly at her stories. He made the occasional comment, enough to keep the conversation flowing, but his usual energy was missing.

Despite the lighthearted banter, it was clear to Y/N that something was weighing on Joe’s mind. She could see it in the way he occasionally rubbed his temple or how his fingers tapped restlessly against the bed sheets.

“Okay, I’m sorry. But... Are you sure you’re okay? It doesn’t seem like it.” 

Joe let out a long sigh, his shoulders relaxing slightly as he finally admitted, “I’ve had a rough day with press interviews and handling logistics for the next project. Just a bit under the weather. Nothing specific. But it’ll pass…”

Y/N nodded, her expression softening. “Is there anything I can do to cheer you up? We could watch a film or do something else you fancy.”

Joe’s lips curved into a faint, tired smile. “I wouldn’t mind one of your hugs right now.”

“A hug?” Y/N chuckled, a playful glint in her eyes. “I'm always down for that. What are we gonna do about that then?”

His smile widened, his dimples becoming more pronounced. He glanced at his phone, considering it for a moment. “Fancy a drive? I can pick you up if you’re not too tired.”

“Sure. Can I go like this?” Y/N asked, showing him her oversized T-shirt and biker shorts.

“Yeah, you’re fine like that. I’ll be there in 15 minutes, alright?”

“Sounds good. See you soon."

They hung up, both moving quickly to get ready. Joe grabbed a blanket and an extra hoodie, just in case, then left his flat and fetched the car from the garage. He sent Y/N a quick text as he arrived, and she hurried out, shivering slightly in the night’s chill.

When Y/N slid into the car, she greeted Joe with a smile and a quick kiss. He smiled back, letting her choose the music as he drove. The hum of the engine and the familiar beats of their shared playlist filled the space, creating a comforting backdrop for their light chatter. Y/N kept her conversation minimal, sensing that Joe needed some quiet to process whatever was on his mind.

After a few minutes, Joe reached out, his free hand searching for hers. Y/N intertwined their fingers without hesitation, and he began gently stroking her hand, placing a soft kiss on her knuckles, his eyes never leaving the road. His serious yet calm demeanor reassured her, even as his arm flexed slightly with each turn, veins visible in the dim light.

They made a quick stop at a petrol station for snacks and drinks. Y/N chuckled at Joe's snack haul, grabbing a chocolate bar while Joe picked an assortment of crisps and a couple of fizzy drinks. Back on the road, he took a sip of his drink and grinned mischievously.

“Did you know that cows can have best friends? They get stressed when they’re separated from them. So, if you ever see a cow looking sad, it might just be missing its BFF.”

Y/N looked at him with a blank face, biting into her chocolate. “Hmm, exactly how you act when you're not around me,” she quipped back, a teasing smile playing on her lips.

Joe raised an eyebrow, trying not to smile. "Alright, your turn."

"Okay, I got one. Why don’t scientists trust atoms?"

Joe gave a mock sigh, playing along. "Why?"

“Because they make up everything…” Y/N said with a smirk. She paused before adding, "Kinda like you do."

Joe rolled his eyes, sighing dramatically. "Oh, so we're going there, are we?"

They continued their playful banter, tossing silly jokes back and forth. Joe’s tone grew more animated as they went on, his laughter becoming more genuine. Y/N could see the tension melting away from his features, his smile becoming more relaxed.

“Alright, alright. I think you’ve won this round,” Joe finally conceded, a wide grin spreading across his face. The trivia game, filled with side glances and stifled chuckles, had turned into a riot of laughter. Their playful competition kept the mood light and joyful, making the drive an enjoyable experience despite Joe’s earlier down mood.

Eventually, they arrived at a quaint park with a panoramic view just outside the suburbs. Joe grabbed the blanket and hoodie, and Y/N followed him.

They both took in the view, and he handed Y/N the blanket to keep her warm while he wrapped himself in the hoodie.

“I’ve only been here a handful of times,” Joe said, his voice softer now. “But there’s something about this place that I really love.”

“I mean... The view alone is reason enough,” Y/N replied with a smile. “I don’t think I would have experienced England the way I have if it weren’t for you.”

“You probably would have,” Joe said, mimicking her expression and sitting on the edge of the car. “There’s still so much more I want you to see.”

“Good thing we’ve got some time.”

Y/N lingered for a few moments before turning to Joe with a playful grin. Joe was already looking at her, his expression shifting from confusion to a small smile as she moved closer and opened her arms for a hug.

He welcomed her with open arms and a warm laugh, letting her hold him tight as she wrapped him in the blanket. His arms rested gently on the lower part of her back, and his chin rested on top of her head, leaving a soft kiss there.

Since they’d met, Joe had noticed Y/N wasn’t a big fan of physical touch with just anyone. Only a few people got that kind of affection from her, and thankfully, he was one of them.

He never turned down a hug, kiss, or even the smallest touch from her, even if they were upset with each other.

“Hey,” Joe murmured after a while. Y/N lifted her head to meet his gaze. Joe smiled down at her, taking in her features and the pimple patch she had on before leaning in for a kiss.

Joe’s kisses usually started soft, almost as if offering a preview of what was to come. When he deepened the kiss, his hand, adorned with rings, cupped her face while the other hand held her waist securely.

Their lips moved together in a rhythm that seemed to crave more, and when Joe bit her lip, Y/N melted, letting his tongue explore as the intensity grew.

They only broke apart when they needed air, both of them noticing how their lips had turned red and slightly plumper.

Y/N smiled shyly, her cheeks flushed as if it were the first time they had shared such a tender moment. She rested her face against his chest for a brief second, making Joe genuinely laugh.

“Only gave you a kiss and your knees are already weak?” Joe teased with a laugh, his eyes becoming smaller with the act. 

Y/N playfully punched his chest, laughing. “Shut up, Joe.”

“But am I even lying? ” he said, trying not to laugh as his hands wandered to her backside and gave it a playful squeeze.

“Joseph!” she exclaimed, half-laughing, half-protesting.

“Alright, alright, I’m sorry! Don’t be looking so good then. It’s not my fault,” Joe said, his tone light and teasing.

“I literally look like a bag lady,” Y/N laughed along with him. “Leave me alone.”

“I haven’t done anything to you. It’s my presence that makes you nervous.”

“No, it doesn’t. Don’t let it go to your head,” Y/N retorted with a small, playful smile.

Joe laughed even harder and pulled her closer, allowing himself to enjoy all of her presence. Spending time alone together turned out to be exactly what Joe needed, making the hours of stress and exhaustion seem now like a complete distant memory.

MET GALA- Joe Keery

Description: (Y/N) navigates her first MET Gala with Joe by her side. After the glamorous event, they both share a tender moment alone.

Warnings: None, Fluff, Established relationship

Word count: 1314

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For the first time ever, (Y/N) was invited to the Met Gala, donning an exquisite creation by Gaurav Gupta. It was the most elaborate and breathtaking outfit she had ever worn.

Relatively new to the public eye and experiencing this level of recognition, (Y/N) was both thrilled and petrified about what the night would bring. After all, being one of the few Latinxs at this exclusive event only added to the significance of the evening.

Joe, who had been on the verge of canceling due to a Heineken promo deal for the F1 races, managed to make it work. She had also been there as his plus one, so they both traveled from Miami to New York on separate days to beat the tight schedule.

While (Y/N) and Joe prepared in different rooms—given the numerous people involved in perfecting (Y/N)’s look—the moment of transformation was nothing short of magical. When she finally saw her reflection, she was left speechless, her heart racing at the sight of her stunning appearance. This transformative moment was captured for later promotional content on social media.

After expressing heartfelt thanks to the designer, Joe knocked on the door. His reaction was probably the highlight of her evening. Overwhelmed with awe, he struggled to find the right words, simply gazing in wonder at all the details of (Y/N)’s look. He hesitated to touch (Y/N), as if afraid to disturb the perfection before him.

“I’m absolutely floored,” Joe finally said, his smile lighting up the room. He took (Y/N)’s hand, his eyes never leaving theirs. “You’re going to be the star of the night, baby. You guys nailed it!”

They shared a few more quiet moments together, savoring the intimacy before heading out. As they approached the Met Gala, the swarm of paparazzi was already buzzing with anticipation.

In the quiet of the car before arriving, (Y/N) leaned in close to Joe. “I feel like I’m going to burst from nerves. Can you feel my heartbeat?” (Y/N) whispered, guiding Joe’s hand to her chest.

“You don’t need to worry about a thing,” Joe replied softly, pressing a reassuring kiss to (Y/N)’s cheek. “Just be yourself and enjoy every moment. Remember, this is your night. I’m right here behind you if you need me. You’ve got this.” (Y/N) nodded, sighing in relief, and gave him a tender peck on the lips. He returned the kiss as the car came to a stop. “Let’s do this,” he said with a grin.

The initial moments at the gala were as overwhelming as expected. With a team directing (Y/N) on where to go, who to talk to, and when to pose, she began to feel more at ease. The girl's charisma started to shine through as she smiled, waved, posed, and engaged in conversations about her projects, taking every opportunity to express gratitude for the chance to be part of such a special night.

Joe, as promised, stayed a few steps behind, allowing (Y/N) to bask in the spotlight while enjoying the evening himself. They did, however, carve out a few moments for themselves amidst the festivities.

In one particularly charming moment, Joe pulled (Y/N) close for a photo. With his arm wrapped securely around (Y/N)’s waist, he leaned in and whispered, “I could spend the entire night just admiring you.” The chemistry between them was palpable in every photo, their connection evident to everyone present. As they approached the final interviews, reporters turned their attention to the couple.

“Let me start by saying, Joeliz, you look absolutely stunning tonight.”

“Oh, thank you so much,” (Y/N) replied, her face lighting up with a genuine smile. “I really appreciate that.”

“So, this is your first time attending the gala together, right? How are you feeling?”

“It’s honestly surreal,” Joe said, his hand resting gently on (Y/N)’s waist. “We’re beyond excited to be here and surrounded by such incredible people.”

“Let’s talk about you two,” a reporter said with a grin. “We’re all thrilled to see you together tonight. Is this your first event as a couple?”

“It is, sort of,” (Y/N) chuckled softly. “There’s no one else I’d rather share this moment with than my husband.”

The reporters' eyes widened in surprise at this revelation. The fact that (Y/N) and Joe had been married for two years and had kept their relationship a secret until now was unexpected to many.

After a few more questions, they bid their farewells and headed to the official dinner. The dinner was pleasant but lacked excitement, so after it they decided to make a quick detour to their hotel for a change into more comfortable after-party outfits.

The after-party was in full swing, with upbeat music and lively chatter filling the room. The venue was beautifully decorated, and the crowd was a mix of high-profile artists and industry insiders.

Joe and (Y/N) were on the dance floor, surrounded by a sea of people. Joe, ever the social butterfly, was effortlessly moving through the crowd, introducing (Y/N) to various guests. The atmosphere was electric, but Joe kept glancing over to ensure (Y/N) was comfortable and enjoying herself.

With a mischievous grin, he gently tugged her away from a particularly enthusiastic conversation. “Come dance with me. I think it’s time for a little break from the mingling.”

(Y/N) smiled, allowing Joe to lead her to a quieter corner of the dance floor where the music was softer and more intimate. As they began to sway to the rhythm, (Y/N) rested her head on Joe’s shoulder, savoring the warmth of his embrace.

After a few songs, Joe excused himself to fetch some drinks. He soon returned and, having heard from others that the rooftop area was also available, decided it was the perfect place for a more private escape.

He guided (Y/N) through the bustling party and toward a discreet stairway. They climbed up to the rooftop, where the city lights stretched out below them, and the night sky was clear and serene. The rooftop was a tranquil haven, adorned with cozy seating areas lit by soft, twinkling string lights.

“Welcome to our little escape,” Joe said as he led (Y/N) to a comfortable couch set against the backdrop of the shimmering cityscape. He gestured to the inviting seating area. “I thought we could use a moment away from all the chaos.”

As they settled onto the couch, (Y/N) lay back against Joe’s chest, feeling the strength of his embrace. The quietude of the rooftop was a stark contrast to the party’s energetic buzz, allowing them to fully enjoy the serenity of their private retreat.

“I know it’s been a whirlwind tonight,” Joe murmured, his lips brushing against (Y/N)’s ear. “But I just wanted to say how proud I am of you. You’ve been incredible.”

(Y/N) sighed contentedly, resting her head on Joe’s shoulder. “Thank you. I couldn’t have done it without you. Tonight has been magical.”

Turning slightly, (Y/N) faced Joe, their hearts beating faster as their lips met. The kiss was both sweet and passionate, a perfect blend of tenderness and desire. After a moment, Joe pulled back, looking into (Y/N)’s eyes with a warm smile. He reached for the champagne glasses they had brought up, handing one to her. They clinked glasses, enjoying the bubbles and the calm atmosphere.

“Here’s to many more nights like this,” Joe said softly, his gaze warm and loving.

Smiling, (Y/N) snuggled closer. “Here’s to us.”

As the night wore on, they reluctantly left their rooftop retreat, their hearts full and their spirits high. They returned to their hotel, eager to unwind and reflect on the unforgettable evening before heading home the next day.

Remus Lupin- Beneath the Surface

Remus Lupin

Marauders Era

Year 1977 (Sixth Year at Hogwarts)

(Y/N) Bristol had always been a focused young woman with very few friends. While many of her peers spent their time goofing off or falling in love, she meticulously set goals for her future. That’s why working on a poison antidote essay with Remus Lupin didn’t seem like a great idea. The brown-haired boy was associated with Sirius Black, James Potter, and Peter Pettigrew, who always seemed to be in trouble or seeking attention. This group of boys disliked following rules or apologizing for their mistakes; they were simply reckless. Therefore, it was understandable that the young woman was reluctant to be paired with the sixth-year student.

However, over the course of their meetings, (Y/N) realized that Remus Lupin was much more than he appeared when surrounded by his friends. He was shy and reserved, respectful in his interactions, and incredibly intelligent. But to be fair, everyone knew that. The now-prefect of Gryffindor House was always on the list of top students in most of their subjects. She was also on that list, of course, but she often went unnoticed.

Up until now, Remus had acknowledged her existence only a few times, and he occasionally wondered how he hadn’t paid more attention to her before. (Y/N) always seemed to have answers for everything. She was prudent, serene, and genuine, truly herself. Talking to her felt like taking a breath of fresh air—an experience he could repeat over and over.

Sitting on the clock tower’s courtyard, they discussed trivial matters while adding final touches to the essay they had been working on for the past two weeks. She held a parchment and quill, while Remus had several books resting on his lap.

“So, what do you want to do after you leave Hogwarts?” The girl glanced up from her parchment when she heard the question.

“I definitely want to be a Healer. It’s been a dream of mine since I was little.”

“Can I ask why?” Remus inquired curiously, leaning back on his arms.

“My grandfather was a Healer until recently. From a young age, I saw how passionate he was about his career and how many people he helped with his knowledge. I loved sitting with him in the afternoons and hearing about his workday. I want to help as many people as he did and never forget to be empathetic or humble with my roots.” A smile appeared on Remus’s face upon hearing this, and (Y/N) mirrored his expression with a small smile of her own. “What about you?”

“Um... Honestly, I’m still not sure what I want to do when I leave here. Maybe teaching? I don’t know.” He shrugged dismissively. “I hope to have a clearer idea before we graduate.”

“I’m sure you will. Don’t worry too much about it.” The young woman responded before continuing with the next question. “How did you get all those marks on your body?”

“What?” The boy’s brow furrowed, and his body tensed immediately—a reaction that did not go unnoticed by (Y/N), who instantly regretted asking the question.

“Forget it, I shouldn’t have asked that. Let’s move on to...”

“Wait, (Y/N),” Remus interrupted. “It’s nothing. You just caught me by surprise...” His mind wandered for a few moments, trying to figure out how to answer the question while sounding truthful. “I’ve always been clumsy. My parents always had to keep an eye on me because turning away for a second meant I’d end up hurting myself. We thought it would stop when I grew up, but it didn’t.” He shrugged and avoided her gaze, knowing that if he looked her in the eye, she would know he wasn’t being entirely honest. “I got these latest ones a few days ago playing with the guys near the Whomping Willow.” He rolled up one of his sleeves to reveal several healing wounds. “But they’re healing, so that’s good.”

“You shouldn’t go near the Willow,” (Y/N) frowned, scrutinizing the young man’s arm. “It’s dangerous, and next time the results could be much worse.” Remus laughed awkwardly at this and nodded.

“I think we’ve figured that out by now…”

“Can I ask you another question?”

“Go ahead.” (Y/N) seemed to think carefully about what she was going to say, and after a few moments, she dared to speak.

“You’re very different from your friends... Before we started this project, I judged you based on everything I’d seen and heard about you, especially from Sirius and James. Why would you want to spend your time with them? Besides the fame and attention that comes with it, what else could you gain from such a friendship?” Remus sighed upon hearing this and took a moment to process what the girl had just said.

“They can be many things, but they’re still my friends... And you’re right, I’m not like them and I don’t agree with everything they do, but they’re important to me. The guys have supported me in my darkest moments when no one else could. We’re inseparable, so if one gets into trouble, the rest do too. It may sound silly, but that’s how we are, and I wouldn’t change it for the world.” He shrugged and looked at (Y/N). “When you get to know them, you realize they’re much more than they seem, just like with me. You should give them a chance; you’d get along well with them.”

“I don’t know, Remus.” (Y/N) sighed, turning her gaze back to the parchments in her hands. “What they did to Severus Snape wasn’t right. And let’s be real, I’m not much different from him. What makes you think they wouldn’t do the same to me?”

“Because I wouldn’t let something like that happen. Besides, the situation is completely different. Not that I’m defending them—never would I do that—but there’s been a rivalry between them and Severus for years.”

“I’m not sure that makes me feel any better, to be honest...” She sighed. “Let’s just forget about it and finish this, it’s getting dark.”

Remus nodded in agreement to not press the issue further, and they spent the rest of the hour solely finishing the work. The next day, both students handed in the essay to Professor Slughorn, and as class ended, they began to gather their things in silence.

“It was nice working with you.” (Y/N) broke the silence after a few seconds. “You know I’m here if you ever need me.”

Remus looked at her upon hearing this and nodded, unsure of how to respond due to the nerves overtaking him.

“Yeah, same.” He managed to articulate, and the girl smiled awkwardly, finishing gathering her things.

“See you later, Remus.” She smiled one last time and left the classroom, leaving behind a blushing and embarrassed Remus.

“You’re such an idiot.” A voice came from beside him, and when he turned his head, he found James grinning at him mockingly. “Is that how you say goodbye, my dear Moony? I thought you were more polite.”

“Shut up, James.” The brown-haired boy rolled his eyes, leaving the classroom with his friends trailing behind him and laughing at his embarrassment.

“You should ask her out without using work as the perfect excuse,” Sirius commented this time, wrapping his arm around Remus’s shoulders once he caught up with him. “She seems like a nice girl.”

“She is, and that’s exactly why I’m not asking her out.”

“Oh, come on, Remus. What’s wrong with having a date with Bristol? You should relax and enjoy yourself a bit.” James interjected again.

“Do I really need to remind you why doing that is a bad idea?” He stopped abruptly, his muscles tensing at the thought of the disastrous possibilities if he lost control near her or anyone else. “It’s a risky move, and she’s too curious... She asked me about the marks on my body yesterday, and I had to lie because I had no other option.”

“Remus, mate...” James sighed, glancing at his friends before speaking. “We’ve got it under control, okay? No one needs to find out or get hurt. We’ll keep doing things the way we have been, and that’s that. Ask her out! You’ve got nothing to lose.”

“And if you don’t like it, just don’t do it again, simple as that. If you want, we can do a group outing to make you feel more comfortable,” Peter added this time, and Sirius nodded, smiling.

“No. That’s definitely not happening.” Remus shook his head repeatedly, clutching the books he was carrying even tighter. “Just... I’ll think about it, okay? I’m not promising anything.”

“Well, that’s better than a no.” Sirius laughed, ruffling the brown-haired boy’s hair, which he swatted away with a complaint. "Don’t make us do it for you, Moony.”

“Whatever. Let’s get going. We’ll be late for Transfiguration class.” He fixed his hair back into place, and his friends laughed, following him as they greeted everyone in the hallways and raced to see who would reach the next classroom first.

The following days passed without any new events. Remus still hadn’t mustered the courage to ask (Y/N) out, so he had settled for small talk with her during Potions class or greeting her in the hallways. His friends hadn’t stopped pressuring him about it, just as they were now, seeing the Ravenclaw girl enter the Great Hall. Remus’s cheeks were red, as always when the subject came up, and his heart raced at the thought of her possible rejection. Since hitting puberty at Hogwarts, he had been accustomed to attention from girls. Not many approached him, but some did. However, he had never even considered having more than a cordial conversation with them. The reasons were endless—starting with the fear of what his nature could provoke, then the little interest he had, and of course, his shy nature. With (Y/N) it was different; being near her was appealing. Conversations flowed naturally, silences were comfortable, and neither of them felt the need to put on an act to impress the other. Even though a part of his mind kept repeating how bad an idea it was to ask her out, there was another part that urged him to take the plunge. Taking a deep breath, he stood up from the table and, ignoring his friends’ comments, walked toward the end of the Ravenclaw table where the girl was seated, already preparing a plate of food. When he arrived, he cleared his throat and put his hands in his pockets to hide his nerves, while (Y/N) turned to look at him.

“Hi...” Remus smiled shyly, trying not to pay attention to the curious eyes watching him at the Ravenclaw table.

“Remus.” (Y/N) smiled back. “How are you? Is everything okay?”

“Yes, of course.” He hurried to say, feeling his face warm up again and his stomach flutter as if hundreds of butterflies were inside him. “Listen... I was thinking that our next trip to Hogsmeade is coming up, and I was wondering if you’d like to join me for a butterbeer and a chat...”

“Oh.” (Y/N) swallowed hard at the proposition, feeling instantly nervous. Was he inviting her on a date?

“You don’t have to say yes.” Remus rushed to add, noticing her reaction. “You probably have better plans, and I don’t...”

“I do want to go.” She interrupted him to prevent him from continuing. “Sorry for reacting that way. I usually go to Hogsmeade alone, so you caught me by surprise.” She smiled faintly without breaking eye contact, even though she could feel her nerves showing.

“Well, there’s a first time for everything, right?” Remus laughed, scratching his neck, and (Y/N) nodded. “How about we meet in front of the carriages at nine in the morning, and then we can take one together? I promise it’ll just be you and me. I know the guys can be overwhelming sometimes, and we don’t want that.”

“Yeah, that sounds perfect.” (Y/N)’s smile widened a bit more.

“Great, then I’ll let you eat. See you on Friday.”

“See you on Friday... And thank you for inviting me.”

“No problem...” Remus smiled again and waved before turning and heading back to the Gryffindor table with a sense of happiness and excitement he could hardly contain. He couldn’t believe it...

He was going on a date with (Y/N) Bristol!

Second Chance- George Weasley

George Weasley 

Sixth Year of Hogwarts 

The sixth-year girl walked through the hallways, searching for a place to spend her free period before returning to class. She ended up choosing to recline against one of the arches that overlooked the main gardens of the castle, intending to resume reading the new book she had started recently. She had been trying to avoid a certain person since yesterday, and so far, it had been successful, as she didn't have any classes in common with the Gryffindor boy that day and had breakfasted earlier than usual. However, her reading was interrupted by the voice of someone calling her. Without even having to turn her face to know who it was, her body tensed, and she closed her book, ready to leave.

-Hey, Fernsby! Wait! - The redhead boy quickened his pace, leaving his brother and best friend behind. ---(Y/N)! - The Ravenclaw stopped with a sigh, knowing this time there was no escape, and turned around, forcing a smile.

-George... What's up? - He raised an eyebrow when he noticed this and crossed his arms, observing her.

-Are you avoiding me? Because that's what it looks like. -

-No- (Y/N) shook her head repeatedly, glancing at the two people now behind George. -Fred, Lee. - She greeted warmly, smiling halfheartedly.

-(Y/N)- Both said simultaneously, mirroring the young woman's gesture.

-Guys, why don't you go on ahead? I need to have a conversation with (Y/N) for a moment. - George said, making the girl feel uncomfortable for a few seconds, Fred and Lee watching both with some amusement.

-Sure, see you in the Great Hall, Georgie. - His brother tapped him on the shoulder and smiled in farewell to (Y/N) before leaving with Lee, leaving the two alone.

-So... What do you need to talk to me about? - The Ravenclaw asked, biting her lip in a nervous reaction to the tension she felt in that moment. She knew perfectly well what they needed to talk about.

- I waited for you for an hour yesterday at the Three Broomsticks as we agreed, and you never showed up... I even had to give someone the butterbeer I bought, for you. -

- Oh...- (Y/N) couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt when George mentioned the latter. Perhaps standing him up hadn't been as good an idea as she thought. In fact, it hadn't been a good idea at all. -I'm sorry, I honestly completely forgot that we were supposed to meet, and I didn't even go to Hogsmeade. -

- You're lying- George almost immediately said, still with his arms crossed over his chest.

- I'm not lying! -

- Of course you are. Every time you lie, you can't look people in the eyes, and you play with the ring you're wearing right now. -

The girl glanced at her hand for a second, ceasing the spinning of her ring to look back at George, somewhat surprised by that observation.

-What's going on, (Y/N)? I thought you were okay with going on a date with me...- She sighed upon hearing that and briefly averted her gaze from the redhead before speaking.

- Listen, George, I'm sorry. It's just that I don't think this— - Her hand moved, pointing to herself and then to him- is a good idea. Maybe it's better if we stick to me helping you with Potions and nothing more. - George frowned upon hearing this and shook his head.

-That's stupid. What made you change your mind? Did I do something wrong? Did someone tell you something about me? -

- No - (Y/N) hurried to say, being completely honest this time. - I just... I don't think I'm what you're looking for in someone, George. There are plenty of other girls who would love to go out with you. Much prettier, more interesting, definitely more laid-back- She added with a forced laugh, avoiding direct eye contact. -I don't want to waste your time, not when it comes to me. -

His expression twisted upon hearing these words from (Y/N), huffed, shaking his head before moving a bit closer to the girl. Making her lift her face to be able to see him due to the significant height difference.

-It's me who decides what I'm looking for in someone. I don't want to date anyone else; I want you... I thought I made that pretty clear when we talked before- He moved a bit closer, causing the girl's nerves to spike along with the beating of her heart.

—George—

—Let me finish— He whispered, never breaking eye contact with (Y/N). -I don't need someone who's just like me; I want someone who complements me. I don't care if you prefer being in the library instead of pulling pranks. I definitely don't care if you think you're carrying a few extra pounds or if you sometimes struggle with your hair- His hand takes a curl resting on (Y/N)'s face and moves it aside as his gaze descends to her lips. -Don't push me away without giving me a chance. That's all I'm asking for.-

(Y/N) sighs at the redhead's words, the butterflies in her stomach now fluttering intensely as he was so close, she could feel the gentle brush of their noses.

—A date, just that— The boy whispered, daring to draw her closer by the waist, his lips now brushing against (Y/N)'s. -And if you're not pleased, I'll let you go. We'll just go back to being the same old classmates... Please. -

He left a small kiss on her lips, causing (Y/N) to feel like she was melting in the arms of the beloved redhead. She gazed at him for a moment before nodding, returning the gesture with a small, shy kiss that brings an immediate smile to George's face.

—Should I take that as a yes? — He chuckled, pulling back slightly to get a better look at her. —Yes...— (Y/N) smiled shyly, forcing herself to step back completely. -This Friday, we'll meet at the Black Lake at 5 in the evening. I'll take care of the rest. It's the least I can do after leaving you hanging yesterday. - George laughed and nodded, slipping his hands into his pockets as he watched the girl start to walk away, keeping her gaze fixed on him as she walked backwards.

—It's a date then, see you later, Fernsby!

—Until later, Weasley. Don't be late for tomorrow's tutoring! — The redhead chuckled at that, shrugging while keeping his eyes on her.

—I can't promise anything, darling. — (Y/N) rolled her eyes, shaking her head before turning around to continue her way to the class about to begin, unable to shake off thoughts of a certain someone who was slowly but surely stealing her heart.

Wish I Didn't Love You- Neville Longbottom

Neville Longbottom

Seventh Year at Hogwarts

I have never run as fast and desperately in my life as I am doing right now. Even with the pain spreading throughout my body, the only thing I can think about is not being caught. My feet directed me on their own, knowing perfectly well the path they should take. Alecto Carrow had stopped hot on my heels thanks to the Locomotor Mortis I had recently thrown at him. However, that wouldn't last for long. I take the last curve towards my final destination and my mind repeats over and over again what I needed to appear at this moment. Just when I reach the wall for which I had run so much, a door appears in front of my eyes and without thinking twice I enter it. Instantly, I feel all eyes on me and even when I try to get the words out of my mouth, it is almost impossible due to uncontrolled breathing.

– What are you doing standing there? Help her! — Seamus moves through the mass of students, hurriedly approaching me while he takes a quick look at me. 

— Have they followed you here? Did anyone see you enter? —

—No—I manage to say between breaths—I gott rid of Alecto on the way. He won't make it this far. —

—Good. — Seamus' frown deepened as he took in my appearance. I could still feel the intense pounding on my bleeding nose, but nothing compared to the pain in my left arm. — Wake Neville up , he needs to know what happened. —

Padma Patil instantly darts toward one of the hammocks seeking out Neville, while Seamus holds me firmly by the waist and with Colin's help we head towards one of the available chairs. Colin wastes no time and begins to examine me more exhaustively, noticing the multiple blows spread across my body and the arm that made it impossible for me to move. 

—We'll need a bone-growing potion for this...— He hurriedly walks to the other side of the Room of Requirement, being swiftly replaced with a familiar face. —

— (Y/N) — Neville kneels before me, cupping my face in his hands and his expression etched with concern. —What the hell happened? —

—Alecto.— I limit my words to that as Colin had returned with a bottle in his hand. —

—Her arm is broken— He comments to Neville as he sits next to me.—This is what we have left of the Skele-Gro.—It may not be enough to completely repair the damage, but it will help at least. We can heal the nose easily. (Y/N), I know this will hurt but it's necessary, okay? —

—Do what you have to do...— I responded, my voice trembling due to the pain. Neville, sensing my distress, settles beside me, clasping my hand gently, offering a reassuring squeeze. He signals Colin to continue, who seconds after whispers 'Episkey', causing my nose to return to its original state with a small 'crack'. I let out a painful moan when I feel that sensation and I squeeze Neville's hand harder. He begins to gently rub my back while he rests his chin on my head. —

— Here you go — Seamus hands me the Skele-Gro. — it will take some time to do its effect so once you drink it you should lie down. Maybe it will help you with the pain. —

I nod listening to his words and without thinking too much I down the liquid in a single movement. The disgusting taste takes over all my senses and I grimace, handing the bottle to Colin before leaning back against Neville, closing my eyes. The boys leave giving me space and a few minutes later the pain I felt in my arm multiplies four times more, causing me to make multiple complaints of pain and some rebellious tears to escape from my eyes. Neville doesn't leave my side for a second and whispers in my ear that the pain would pass soon and I would be fine. A few minutes later I start to feel a little better and he gets up looking for a piece of cloth that he tears and ties to his liking to put around my arm so that I have some kind of support. The next few minutes were spent in silence allowing my body to get a little used to the pain to the point where I could breathe somewhat normally again.

—How... How did he do this to you? — Neville whispers after a while, causing me to come out of my little trance. —

—I was leaving the library when Alecto saw me. — I sigh, brushing the hair away from my face with the hand that was still healthy — He stopped me and began to question me about where you were hiding. I told him I knew absolutely nothing and he stressed to me over and over again how close you and I were... He couldn't get any information out of me so he decided it was time to take me to the dungeons. Anyway, I escaped before he could do anything else. That's when he started following me and along the way he managed to attack me a couple of times. On one of those times I fell down the stairs and ended up with this.— I point to my nose and arm vaguely. — I knew that if that woman ended up capturing me I would end up dead so I got up and continued my way here. —

—Then you're not going back out there.— He whispers with a thick voice and tense muscles as he observes me carefully. His features were strong and somewhat wrinkled, giving me the impression that he was angry. — I knew that it was a mistake for you to return after the Easter holidays. You should have listened to me (Y/N). —

—And what did you want? That I would sit at home with my hands folded when the school is falling apart and you're basically shouldering the burden alone? What kind of person would I be if I did something like that Neville? —

—Someone who wants to live (Y/N)!— He raises his voice a little, causing my body to tense and the anger to increase.—

—That is the most stupid and selfish thought I have ever heard you say. —

—Selfish?— He laughs sarcastically, shaking his head— Don't you realize? Ginny and Luna are gone. Who knows if they are still alive after all this time. Dean is on the run because his life is in danger and no one is safe here, no one (Y/N). And I’m selfish for wanting to protect you? Look how you are right now! Do you think it's worth it? —

—Why wouldn't it be worth it? Neville, we're in this together. I can't be far from my friends, from you, knowing the type of people we are facing. You and I made a promise and I won't be the one to break it. So forgive me if you don't agree with my way of thinking, but it is what it is and that's the end of the matter. —He snorts, shaking his head and crosses his arms, remaining silent for a few minutes.—

—Sometimes, I wish I hadn't fallen for you…— Neville's words pull my gaze to him, and as he sighs, I see the weight of his feelings mirrored in his eyes. — Not in this reality we're trapped in. I wish I didn't have to fear losing you, seeing you hurt, or wondering if each kiss might be the last. But that's not the hand we've been dealt. I can't stop loving you, can't shake off these fears, can't help being selfish when it comes to you, because, (Y/N), you're everything to me. Just try to see it from my side, even for a moment, please.—

His voice wavers, and my heart clenches, a lump forming in my throat. Shifting on the couch, I lean against his chest, feeling his arms envelop me in a cocoon of warmth.

—That's what I do every single day.— I murmur, hiding my face in the curve of his neck.— I've seen you hurt so often, I've feared your life slipping away in my arms. I've watched you champion others, devise plans to protect them, and take risks just to show us reasons to keep fighting. I hate that you constantly put yourself in danger, yet I can't help but believe you're the person we all need in these times. Let me support you. Don't push me away, asking me to see things your way because I can't, not when I'm here to care for you and others just as you do.—

Neville sighs and pulls me a little tighter in his arms, careful not to touch my injured arm. We remain silent for a couple of minutes until he separates himself a little from me so he can look me in the eyes.

—Let's clean you up a little so you can rest. I'll be back, stay here. - I move away from him so he could go get some things and he returns with a cloth and some water. He sits down next to me and begins to wipe the blood off of my face with such gentleness that it seems as if he were afraid of breaking.

My gaze traces his face, lingering on his pink lips and the newly grown beard, a testament to the weeks spent confined in the Room of Requirement. Stress had etched maturity onto his features, evident in the shadows beneath his eyes—common to all of us—but he retained the same handsome allure from last summer, perhaps even more so. As he finishes tending to me, a tender kiss graces my cheek, eliciting a half-hearted smile that cherishes every display of affection from him.

Resting my forehead against his, I toy with his hand before our lips brush fleetingly, fulfilling the longing that had brewed within me for days. Our mouths meet in a soft, unhurried kiss, an expression of emotions unspoken. When we separate, Neville's faint smile lingers, punctuating the moment with a final kiss placed gently upon my forehead.

—It's better that you rest for a while. I have to go get more food. When I get back I'll wake you up, okay? — I nod and he gets up from the couch so he can lie me down on it. — I'll see you later, try not to scare me anymore today, okay? —

—Only if you try not to give me headaches either. — Neville laughs lowly, rolling his eyes and nods. —

— I can try, I don't promise anything. —I smile and Neville waves goodbye, while I close my eyes trying to fall asleep.—