Doing The Right Thing

Doing the Right Thing

Ransom Thrombey/Drysdale x Reader

Rating: T

Warnings: Language, some sexual themes (nothing too bad though), spoilers though I did change a little bit of the plot, a kind of ooc Ransom, and terrible writing (I blame it on being sick)

(GIF is not mine) 

Summary: You knew you were making the right decision but do the Thrombey/Drysdale family agree with you? 

Author’s note: The amazing @capshoney gave me prompt 35 and 51 from this prompt list. Since I’ve had so much fun writing about Ransom, I just had to make this a Ransom fanfic too. <3

I really wanted to show how self-centered this family is. Or, at least, how self-centered they seemed to me. I hope everyone likes it. It’s kind of different from the other Ransom fics I’ve been writing. >.<

(In this fanfiction, Ransom didn’t kill Harlan.) 

“What did you just say?” 

If you weren’t already on some of the Thrombey and Drysdale’s shit list, you certainly were now. You doubt anything would change that so why stop? You shrugged before crossing your arms over your chest, watching as the family lost their minds over the simple action. You couldn’t help the smirk that crossed your lips as Linda continued to lash out at you, leaning forward as if to pounce if it wasn’t for her husband holding her back. 

“Do I need to order you a hearing aid Linda? I was pretty clear on what I said.” You chuckled as she gasped, a sharp glare from not only her but everyone else in the room now being thrown in your direction. 

“You little bitch. Our family took you in. We helped you!” 

You lifted your hands in defense, contradicting the amusing smile that still played on your lips. “No. I believe it was Harlan that helped me.” 

It was a simple statement but it left a soft smile on your face as you glanced at the portrait of Harlan. It had been almost twenty years since Harlan had learned from his grandson about your situation and changed your life. You could still remember the grief when he sat down with you at his office, a comforting hand on your shoulder as he confessed he knew about your living conditions. 

Your father had passed away two years prior and your mother? She found comfort in a bottle rather than pay attention to her grief stricken daughter. The times she did notice you, it was just to leave another bruise that you hastily tried to hide. 

It had been Harlan that put up with your panic, defending the woman you now knew was toxic. It had been Harlan that sent her away, leaving you in the care of your grandmother. A woman who had been trying to see you but was turned away time and time again by her own daughter. It was Harlan that later took you under his wing, giving you the motivation you needed to make something of yourself. To not dwell on the past. 

You loved Harlan and he loved you too. But you didn’t expect for this to happen. Harlan had you given you more than enough. He helped you get back on your feet. He helped you find a therapist to work through the trama. He helped you with school work, finding a job, and years later, finding the courage to confess to the man you loved. He gave you his support and you didn’t need any more from him. But he never stopped giving. 

When the will was read, you were a wealthy woman. You and Marta would split everything. Marta would receive the house. You would get the publishing company. The money would be split between you two and immediately, you knew exactly what you had to do. 

Every last dime you received went to charities across the country, supporting countless abuse victims to help get them back on their feet. It would help give them a second chance just like Harlan did for you. 

Of course the selfish people before you didn’t agree with your decision. 

You shrugged again. “It’s only right that I follow in his footsteps and help others too.” 

“It wasn’t your money to give away!” Linda paused. “And the publishing company?” 

“Harlan trusted me to run it. I’m going to do my best to make him proud.” 

You knew you were making things worse by telling them you weren’t giving up control of the company but you wanted to see them suffer. After all the snide comments and insults thrown at you, it was only fair...right? But you had taken it a step too far and as Linda broke free from her husband’s arms, a dangerous look in her eyes and her hand raised, you immediately backed away. 

You didn’t get far through. A strong arm wrapped around your waist, pulling you tight against a chest you knew all too well. Instinctively, you snuggled closer towards it, taking a deep breath of his scent as you lay a hand on top of his arm. Finally, you looked up, a soft smile on your face to finally see your protector. Though Ransom didn’t notice, too busy glaring at his mother who froze in her spot. 

“Don’t you fucking touch her mother.” He said while his grip around you tightened. You couldn’t help but smirk as it was now Linda who backed away from her son’s sharp look. She quickly tried to compose herself as she snapped. 

“Did you know about this? Did you know that my father was giving your...your whore…”

“Insult her one more time. I dare you.” He growled, cutting off her rant. He paused. “You know what? Fuck this.” 

With that, he led you away from the screaming group towards the front door of the mansion. Once he slammed the door, he didn’t stop and started towards the car. 

“Are you happy now?” He asked while not even looking at you. You arched an eyebrow before rolling your eyes. 

“That’s rich coming from the jackass that always likes to piss them off.” You were on a roll today. But unlike the family inside, Ransom wasn’t having it. Or at least, he knew how to catch you off guard. He pinned you against the car, his body leaning against yours as he gripped your chin and forced you to look at him. His warm breath fanned against your face and while you knew he wasn’t trying to seduce you, you couldn’t help but feel weak at the knees. Your face was beginning to turn red. 

“You’re so god damn stubborn.” He frowned. “Just because you got the money doesn’t mean they’re broke. Who knows what they’ll do to you.” 

You scoffed. “I can handle them.” This only made Ransom growl, his grip on you tightened as he slightly shook you. 

“Did you not hear the detective? What if they did something to grandad? If they did something to their own family, imagine what they’d do to you?” And there it was. The spark of worry that shined in Ransom’s eyes. 

You sighed, finally moving to run a hand through his hair as you moved your face away from his grasp. Instead, you snuggled closer against him as a soft hum escaped your lips. While a lot of people thought your boyfriend was a self-centered rich asshole, you got to see this side of him. It wasn’t perfect but it was more than enough for you. Once again, you thanked Harlan for pushing you two together. 

“We can hire a bodyguard. Or better yet, I’ll hire you as my bodyguard.” It was enough to make Ransom chuckle, his body starting to relax as he caressed your lower back. “You make me feel safe Ransom. You make me feel alive. If you stay by my side, we’ll figure this out...together. But I had to do this.” 

Ransom sighed as he finally let go of you to slide his sunglasses on. No doubt he was taking a moment to settle down after the mess you made. “...You really had to give it ALL away?” 

It wasn’t complete acceptance but then again, when did Ransom ever fully agreed with you? You laugh as you shake your head, tiptoeing to kiss him quickly. 

“We’ll go on a vacation once we settle into our roles at the publishing house.” 

“Our?” 

“Of course. Every CEO needs a good COO.” Ransom laughed as he got into the car, grinning when he started the engine. 

“And you think I’m the best choice for that position?” 

“Well...no. But it’s a better title for payroll than ‘(y/n)’s personal eye candy.’” You winked before you grabbed your shades from the visor. You were about to put them on before Ransom grabbed your hand. 

His eyes locked with yours, he kissed the back of your hand gently. But it wasn’t enough and soon, he pulled you close to him to kiss you. It was rough, which was often the case with Ransom but you could feel the emotion through the gesture. As he left you panting, your lips already starting to swell with the force of his kiss, it was his turn to wink. 

“You know...I think your first order as CEO should be to soundproof your office.” He said as he finally started to drive. 

You laughed and rolled your eyes before responding. “Keep acting cocky like that and I’ll be banning you from my office.” 

“You can’t resist me.” You wanted to scoff and retort with some witty comeback, but it faded away as you looked at your joined hands. You smiled, shaking your head as you looked out the window. 

“Come on. We have an empire to run.”

“You Look Amazing Tonight.”

Ransom Thrombey/Drysdale x Reader

Rating: T

Warnings: Language, some sexual themes (no smut though) and spoilers (though I did change some of the plot) 

(GIF is not mine) 

Summary: Being Ransom’s fiance can be tough. But times like this? It makes it all worth it. 

Author’s Note: Prompt #14 of this amazing prompt list. 

(In this fic, Ransom didn’t kill Harlan. But Harlan still passed away so Marta still inherited everything.)

It was no secret that Ransom’s family was...different. Ransom liked to say that they were ‘batshit crazy’ and while you tried to see the best in everyone, you couldn’t help but agree with him. 

Even after the Thrombey/Drysdale bunch was knocked down a peg or two after Marta inherited Harlan’s fortune, it still didn’t help with all of their selfish tendencies. Marta, bless her kind heart, gave them some sort of stability yet they took it for granted, acting like the same idiots they were before their lives were turned upside down. 

Walt was offered a job at the publishing company though he still acted like he owned the place, urging everyone to consider making his father’s work into blockbuster films. Joni continued to hound Marta for money, blowing her yearly allowance in one month with trips and the latest trend instead of investing in her business. In fact, most of the money Marta gave them was gone almost immediately, none of them ready to give up their lavish lifestyles that used to come from Harlan’s money. 

Richard and Linda divorced. With the prenup, Richard walked away with almost nothing and the last time Ransom heard from him, he was in Hawaii with his latest fling. And Linda? She threw herself into her work. It was as if she forgot she had a son. Her lack of attention towards Ransom was worse and now, she only saw him on the rare family get together, using it to only berate her son rather than give him the love he needed and deserved. 

She scolded him on his new line of work, a car company that he built from the ground up. No loan from Harlan needed. She scolded him on his still lavish lifestyle even though he wasn’t relying on Harlan’s money anymore. She scolded his attitude which was...understandable. Ransom was still an asshole to his family. Though you’d never admit it outloud, they kind of deserved it though. 

She also scolded him about you. Perhaps it was Linda’s failed marriage but she hated everything about you. From your appearance to how you acted around them, nothing was good enough for Linda Drysdale, now Thrombey. 

Which is why you were doing this. 

As you fixed the bottom of your short dress, you quickly grabbed your things before leaving the suite Ransom had booked for you. Your short heels clicked against the tile floor as you hastily pressed the elevator button, a big grin on your face as you begged the thing to quickly arrive and take you to the first floor. 

Once the doors opened, you saw him leaning against the opposite wall. Dressed in a dark blue button down shirt and a black suit jacket hanging over his arm, it was his signature smirk that drove you crazy. You wanted nothing more than to pull on his arm, leading him back up to your room for the rest of the night. Instead, you stood frozen at the door of the elevator, only jumping when the door began to close. Hastily, you stepped forward, tucking a strand of your (h/c) hair behind your ear as you smiled brightly at him. 

“You look amazing tonight.” He chuckled as he immediately pulled you in close. “But of course you do. After all babe, I did pick the outfit.” 

He laughed, the sound ringing in your ears as you playfully swatted at his chest. “Shut up. It was your idea to do this. You didn’t even give me a chance to pack.” You pouted, pushing against his chest to move away from his hold. But instead, his grip tightened around you as he leaned down to whisper seductively in your ear. 

“Your point? After tonight, I want you naked until we need to board the plane on Monday morning.” He growled, gently nipping at your neck as a deep blush spread across your cheeks. A soft moan escaped your lips as you ran your fingers through his hair, losing yourself in the moment until he spoke again in your ear. “If it wasn’t for the damn venue and their appointment, I’d say fuck it and take you upstairs now.” 

That was all you needed to hear. Immediately, you pushed yourself off from him, fixing your now messy hair as you brightly smiled. “What are we waiting for then?” 

And there it was. The genuine smile that Ransom saved just for you. It made your knees weak and if it wasn’t for the arm still wrapped around your waist, you were sure you’d have collapsed onto the floor by now. You sighed as Ransom’s other hand took yours, lifting it slowly as he kissed the huge engagement ring that rest on your finger. 

“Are you that eager to be a Drysdale?” 

“Just eager to be your wife.” You immediately retorted, leaning up to kiss him quickly before you bent down to retrieve the bouquet. You smirked when the simple action made Ransom moan as he watched. “Damn it (y/n). I take it back. That dress needs to go. If you bend down like that in front of others, you’ll soon be bailing your fiance out of jail.”

You smirked. “Or husband. If we can make it through the ceremony first.” 

Ransom rolled his eyes as he once more pulled you close, one hand squeezing your ass as he kissed your roughly. He finally spoke after that, a little out of breath as he rubbed circles on your back. “Are you sure you’re still okay with this? Isn’t it a girl’s dream to have a big wedding or some shit like that? Besides, I wouldn’t mind showing off my girl.” 

“All I care about is marrying you Ransom. Plus, if it means avoiding your family or your mother trying to object, it’s just another bonus. Even if it means we have to get married at the most cliche wedding destination.” 

Ransom chuckled. “Las Vegas isn’t so bad.” 

“At least Elvis isn’t marrying us.” 

Ransom chuckled as his hand tried to sneak it’s way up your dress. “Please. Do you really think I’d agree to something like that? We’re here at the finest hotel, I booked the fucking penthouse, and you’re wearing a four thousand dollar dress. Which, I might add, I’m going to rip off of you as soon as we make it back upstairs. Do you really think I’d let a cheap impersonator marry us?” 

“You might.” You teased as you swatted his hand away. “You do like to piss me off.” 

Ransom, with a long sigh and a small laugh, finally stepped away and lifted his hands in defeat. “Just for today, you’re safe. I want my bride happy. Happy wife means mind blowing sex, right? Isn’t that how the saying goes?” 

“Something like that.” You said as you rolled your eyes and lowered one of his hands to lace your fingers with his. “Now hurry up and marry me asshole.” The insult only made Ransom chuckle as he kissed your hand. 

“That’s my girl. Now lead the way.”

You pulled me from the river. Why?

Flannel

Rating: T

Warnings: Swearing, innuendos, crappy writing and late night editing. 

Author’s Note: It’s been...eight months since my last imagine?! I can’t believe how fast time went by! Due to personal issues, I lost the energy and passion to write during that time. It hurt to not find the motivation to write my own stories but I’m thankful to be here now. I’m ready to write again! Forgive my crappy start back and hopefully, this isn’t as bad as I think it is. 

(GIF not mine as always)

A silent gasp escaped your lips as you saw him walk up to you, a big smile on his face as he looked around the empty room. You were an hour early, as always, and previously thinking it would be that way for a while, shock was the only emotion now plastered on your face.

That and the desire to just pull your husband close and kiss him. Damn that flannel shirt. All red, blue, and…perfect.

Quickly, you snapped out of your thoughts as he loudly coughed to grab your attention once more. With a smirk, he leaned over your chair and slowly, he moved to rest his lips close to yours. His hot breath fanned across your face, making you blush a deep red color, while one hand moved to touch your cheek. 

“Hey gorgeous.”

Despite being married to the man, all you could do was stutter as you worked towards a response. But finding it difficult to do even that, you did the next best thing and set your earlier plan to motion. Quickly, your arms hooked around his neck, pulling him the rest of the way down to kiss him passionately. His chest rumbled with a chuckle as he happily pulled you up out of your chair, bringing you both to his without breaking the kiss that was quickly becoming a little too steamy for a public setting. But your sense of judgment was gone as you weaved your hands through his long hair, pulling it gently as you longed for this moment to last.

Yet it did too soon to your liking and with a pout, you pulled away gasping for air. You moved, resting your forehead against his shoulder, smiling as you felt his body vibrate from the laughter that came from him. He squeezed you tightly, pressing you flush against him as he worked through the chuckles to softly lay kisses down the side of your neck.

“Surprised?” He asked as his hands moved down your back. You groaned in delight.

“Confused.” You mumbled, waiting for your racing heart to settle until you pulled away to look at his happy expression.

“My new agent booked an interview with your company weeks ago. I know you usually handle this sort of things and come on babe, it was too good to pass up. I had to surprise you.”

“You succeeded.” You chuckled. With the bright smile on his face, how could you be anything but happy anyways? Besides, when were you not excited to be with your husband? With a smile that seemed to rival his own, you kissed him quickly before standing and retrieving the sheets of paper that scattered to the floor when Chris picked you up. “So what, I’m supposed to interview you?”

“That is your job.” You shot a glare at Chris leading him to raise his arms in defense. He chuckled while trying again. “Just act like I’m just another guest on your show babe. It’ll be fine.”

You rolled your eyes while setting the papers back on your chair before once more going to sit on Chris’ lap. Snuggled close to your husband, you sighed in content before you nodded to the idea. Honestly, you would have agreed to anything if the promise of Chris’ amazing hugs were part of the package. Your eyes closed and with a deep breath, you indulged in the little moment the two of you shared. But of course, it didn’t last for long as you played with the sleeve of his shirt, groaning as you finally looked up at him.

“I’m pissed too by the way.” You chuckled as the smile on Chris’ face dropped, his eyes quickly searching yours for a clue as to why. But the tension that had already seemed to grow within him faded when he saw that adorable pout he fell in love with, your bright (e/c) eyes trying their best to look sad.

“You promised you wouldn’t wear that shirt anymore outside of the house.”

Chris couldn’t help himself. He laughed, the sound echoing in the room as he moved to squeeze his left boob. His eyes clenched shut, he threw his head back as he let the amusement of what you said, and the memories of your past promise, wash over him. You couldn’t help but chuckle alongside him, remembering when you saw the interview where he showcased the flannel shirt. Halfway across the country, the sight of your husband and how that damn shirt looked on him almost sent you in a panic to buy a ticket and fly out there to meet him.

If he had that effect on you, his wife, how would anyone else think? While jealously wasn’t something you often showed during this relationship, that damn shirt had led to it as you keep staring at Chris on the screen of your phone. Combine that with his signature beard and his overall adorable self, you were certain at that point that the flannel shirt needed to go. Or be for your personal eyes only. If you had to share your man, the least you could take was one shirt away from the public. Something only for you to see on him.

The thought of that shirt lingered in your mind until he came home a few days later. Immediately, he was greeted with a welcome that was far more than a simple kiss and after that, you voiced your thoughts about the flannel. The reaction had been the same as now and with a chuckle, promised you that the shirt would be for you only if you did the same with that (your favorite color) dress that he loved.

“You started it. You wore that damn dress to Sebastian’s party last month in New York.”

“I forgot all my other dresses at home!” You retorted while going back to pouting.

“Still…” Chris was still laughing, moving to wipe his eyes before he looked down at you once more. “I told you that you looked stunning in that dress and I was right. All his single friends kept hitting on you and…damn it (y/n). Call me selfish but I didn’t want anyone else to see how beautiful you looked then. It was for my eyes only.”

“Now you know how I feel when you’re in that fucking flannel.”

“Noted.” Chris chuckled. Finally, he was starting to calm down. His eyes focused on you and his thumb rubbed against your bottom lip as he smiled. “I promise to head home after this. Plus, this is just a voice interview. No one will see me in the shirt. Happy?”

With a grin on your face, you leaned forward. After voicing your approval against his lips, you happily indulged in the small make-out session that happened right after

“I am Home”

Rating: PG

Warnings: Angst and Mediocre writing

(GIF, like always, is not mine) 

Author’s Note: Long time no see, huh? I’ve been dying to write again and while this first attempt isn’t great, it’s a start. This is #63 from a recent prompt list I reblogged onto my page. Please feel free to leave a number in my inbox with one of the characters I’ll write for. I’d love some inspiration!

You were a fool.

From the moment Steve volunteered to return the stones, you had assumed he’d come back. That he’d back in a few seconds and sweep you up in his arms before you both helped the world recover from Thanos.

You hoped that he’d choose the life he made with you.

Yet as you fiddled with your wedding ring, leaning against the wall by the open door, your heart broke as you overheard your husband and Bucky talk on the other side.

“You’re really going back to return all those stones?” Bucky asked, leaning against the counter as he watched Steve fasten his gloves. His feet fiddled with some of the damage from the recent fight, his eyes focused on the floor to hide his sullen expression. “Someone has to Buck. I know the locations of where to return the stones and honestly? I don’t think any of the others are fit to do this right now.” Steve sighed, running his hand through his hair as he leaned down to fix his boots next.

Bucky paused. “You’re not coming back, are you?”

“What are you talking about?” Steve finally looked up, watching as Bucky did too to reveal his bloodshot eyes.

“Don’t act like you haven’t thought about it. You have the chance to go back and have a life with her. She’s the love of your life, Steve.” It broke your heart that he didn’t object. Or at least, you didn’t think he did as the room went quiet. You almost jumped when Bucky finally spoke up again. “You deserve a happy ending Steve. You’ve done enough for this time. It’s about time you went back to yours.”

Once again, the silence killed you. You felt like your heart stopped as you painstakingly waited for Steve to speak. Whether to confirm or deny it, you just needed to know. You needed to prepare yourself for a world without your husband. You held your breath as you counted the seconds until someone would speak and break the tension that seemed to haunt the room and the hallway where you were.

“Stop being ridiculous Bucky.” Steve finally said. But his voice was flat, completely unlike the one you came to love. Steve’s voice that you knew was full of conviction, truth laced in each word. Whether it was to save the world or to promise you that he’d be home for Thursday pizza movie nights, you never once doubted him. But this time, you faltered and obviously Bucky did too as he sighed again.

“Whatever you say pal. I’ll see you over there.”

You needed to go. You didn’t want them to catch you eavesdropping. But you stood frozen in your spot. The tears raced down your face as a hand flew over your mouth to hide the sobs. Your ring scraped over your lips, as if reminding you of all the precious memories you had and the ones you would lose the opportunity to experience if he chose to leave you behind.

Bucky froze when you saw you on the other side. He didn’t alert Steve of your presence though. Instead, his arm wrapped over your shoulders as he steered you away while he whispered words of comfort in your ear. But nothing helped. The only thing that could would be to see the man you loved return back with an empty briefcase and a smile on his face.

***

The three of you were silent as Bruce and Steve discussed the details of the mission. Sam had been oblivious just like you had been, hands tucked into his pockets as he waited nearby. But you and Bucky knew better. Bucky hovered near the end of the clearing, hands tucked into his pockets while you...you didn’t know what to do. You stood next to the platform, struggling to find the strength to speak when Steve finally came your way. You were losing him. What could you say?

It all happened so fast though. The briefcase was locked, Mjolnir was picked up, and in just a few moments Steve was standing by your side. A small smile was on his face as he took your hand, lifting it to his lips to kiss it gently.

“Why the long face, doll? I’ll be back before you know it.” Lies. But you couldn’t say it as tears welled up in your ears. It felt hard to breath as he gently placed his hand against your cheek. You held it tighter against your skin and savored the feeling. With shaky hands, you finally took his hand and kissed his wedding ring.

“I hope I made you happy. Even if it was just for a small amount of time.” Steve looked at you in confusion.

“Doll, I don’t understand.” He said, letting out a weak chuckle as he pulled you close against him. “Is this another one of your song references? Because now really isn’t the time.”

You just shook his head, trying to force a smile on your face. “I love you.”

Steve smiled. “I love you too. Always.” He kissed your forehead before he finally let go. You missed his touch, your arms instinctively reaching out to grab for him before they fell limp against your side. No. There was nothing you could do to change his mind. Not when his best girl was waiting for him.

As he finally took a step onto the platform, he shot you one last smile before he disappeared. Then there was nothing. You were nothing. Your arms wrapped around yourself as you stepped away from the scene, venturing off towards the nearby lake to clear your head.

Steve had left you. He left the life he made with you. It made you feel insecure. Did you mean that little to him? You’ve been with him since the attack on New York but it meant nothing compared to the little time he spent with his precious Peggy. But you didn’t blame him. She was perfect. Unlike you. The bitter thoughts in your head kept repeating your insecurities, the panic attack that hit you making it hard to breath.

You didn’t even hide the tears as you fell to your knees, clutching the grass as you struggled to catch your breath. You missed him. You missed everything about him and it was too late. It was too late to tell him to stay. It was too late to tell him how much you needed him.

How quickly you crumbled apart without him. As you still struggled with your thoughts, you felt a hand on your shoulder. Quickly, you shook it off as you tried and failed to wipe the tears from your face.

“Leave me alone Bucky.” But it wasn’t his voice that said your name next. You gasped as you whipped your head around. It was like seeing Steve after years apart and not trusting your legs, you remained sitting there, looking at him in shock. Your mouth was wide open, your eyes wide as you struggled to speak.

“You thought I’d stay?” He asked, kneeling beside you as he gently helped wipe your eyes. Your silence was enough of an answer as he weakly chuckled, leaning forward to rest his forehead on yours. “How could I leave my best girl?”

It was then that you pulled away, constantly shaking your head as you struggled to put some distance between you two. “Best girl? No Peggy was. Is.” You paused, trying desperately to speak despite the pounding in your head. “You could have stayed in the past. You could have gone home.”

Steve couldn’t stand the distance. He pulled you close, not that you objected, holding you tight as he looked in your eyes. His voice was firm, the same truthful tone was back as he leaned closer to whisper against your lips.

“Love, I am home.”

“It’s Cold, You Should Take My Jacket.”

Johnny Storm x Reader

Rating: T

Warnings: Innuendos?

(GIF, like always, is not mine) 

Summary: Reader meets Johnny

Author’s Note: #81 from this amazing prompt list. Feel free to message me a number with a character from my list! I’d love some input on what to write next! 

It was your first Winter in New York and you definitely underestimated the cold. You wrapped your arms around yourself, seeking comfort in the small warmth that came from your long sleeved tee. Your teeth chattered as you quickly made your way through the park, counting the steps until you made it back to the warmth of your apartment. But the odds were stacked against you. Every street light turned red the minute you walked close to it and your idea to take a shortcut through the park? It was just your luck that so many events were going on today, constantly blocking your path.

You cursed as you rubbed your arms, giving up on your brisk pace as you just gave in to the inconveniences. It was your fault anyways. You should have worn something warmer before you went out today. As you slumped down onto a nearby bench, you tried to catch your breath while rubbing your hands together.

“Cold?” You turned to the voice, not even noticing someone sat down next to you until he decided to speak up. He was gorgeous as he lay back against the cold park bench. His hands were tucked inside his leather jacket, his legs crossed and his body turned towards you. He smirked, no doubt holding back a laugh as his bright blue eyes shined.

You blushed, looking down as you fiddled with the sleeves of your shirt. “I’m used to warm weather. Much warmer weather.” You laughed. “Around this time of year, I’d still be lounging around in shorts and a tank top.” “Sexy.” Your head whipped towards him at the comment, watching as he quickly lifted his hands in defense as he laughed. “Hey. You put the image in my head.”

You rolled your eyes, scoffing as you moved to stand up and make the final trek towards your apartment. Before you could step away, his hand covered yours, the warmth from his touch seeming to travel down your body.

“I’m sorry. I’m sorry. It just slipped out.” He held back a laugh as he gestured towards the bench. “Stay with me. Just for a little longer?”

You should have left. With how cold you were, you should have left him there and went home. But you couldn’t stop yourself from sitting down again, not once moving his hand that lay on top of yours. Gosh, he was so warm…

As if he read your mind, he finally moved his hand away, leaning forward to shrug off his jacket. He stood up, leaning over you as he draped his jacket over your shoulders. “It’s cold, you should take my jacket.”

“But what about you?”

“I’ll be fine.” He chuckled, going back to sit beside you as you looked at him in confusion. How could he be fine in this weather? You should have insisted he take it back. You should have taken the jacket off. But it was so toasty and whatever cologne he wore...it made you melt.

As you snuggled into the leather jacket, you smiled as you turned to face him again.

“So, used to warmer weather, huh?” He asked, scooting a little closer to you. “What brings you here then?”

“Work. If it wasn’t for the raise that came with the relocation, I’d still be soaking in the sun.” You smiled. “And what about you? You seem used to all this.” “I’ve been here for years. This is nothing.” He shrugged. “This is home. I can’t imagine living anywhere else. And besides, if I wasn’t here, I wouldn’t have met a pretty girl like you.”

You rolled your eyes. “Trying to get me in bed?”

“Depends. Is it working?” You sighed.

“And here I thought you were just being nice.”

“I’m kidding.” He laughed, grabbing your hand again. “I’m known for being quite a flirt. It’s kinda hard to stop.”

“Your charms aren’t working on me.” But the playful pout that appeared on his face from your words proved otherwise. You blushed, quickly focusing on his jacket again.

“How about one date then? Maybe I can change your mind.” “What happened to you ‘trying to stop being a flirt?’ Do you do this with all the girls you meet?”

“Used to. I’ve been trying to get my priorities straight recently. But...there’s something about you that just made me want to try my luck.” Your blushed darkened.

“After everything you’ve just told me, I’m not sure if I should take that as a compliment or not.”

“Compliment. Definitely a compliment.” He said and smiled, about to speak once more before his phone went off. He frowned, cursing the thing under his breath as he slid the phone from his pocket. Once he read the message though, his eyes went wide as he scrambled to his feet. He quickly looked around, his hands clenched into fists as he looked up. But his gaze finally landed on you before his body relaxed and instead, he started taking off in the opposite direction. All the while, he ran backwards while still trying to talk to you.

“Listen, I have to go. I’m sorry. It’s an emergency. Call me!”

“Wait! Your jacket!” You said as you hurry to your feet, trying to shrug off the jacket.

“Keep it! It looks better on you anyways.” He shouted, winking at you before he finally disappeared from sight.

Stunned from the recent events, you stood still. It wasn’t until someone shouted nearby that you looked up, seeing flames burst into the sky and disappear into the city. But you just walked back home, still reeling over the conversation you had with that gorgeous stranger. He never gave you his number. How the hell were you supposed to contact him?

It wasn’t until the next day did you know it was Johnny Storm. You stared at his picture in the newspaper on your way to the mall for more appropriate winter attire. You had unconsciously put on the leather jacket that morning and now, it felt like fate that you did. You smiled as you turned around, heading towards the Baxter building instead.

...Part 2?