Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Mom? I’m home,” I call out as I step into our apartment.

I set my backpack on the floor next to the door like always, and make my way into the kitchen. There she is, sitting at the table, head in her hands. I set my textbooks on the table and sit next to her.

“Mom, what’s wrong?” I rub her shoulders as they shake with sobs, giving her the time she needs.

She turns to me with red eyes and she bites her lip. I nod gently, encouraging her.

“W-we have to leave,” she finally mumbles, through trembling lips.

“What do you mean, mom?”

“I’m so sorry, baby. I just couldn’t scrape together the rent this month. He said we gotta leave by tomorrow,” she takes my hands in hers, begging me for forgiveness.

“Who said that, mom, who said we have to leave?” I ask, tears welling up in my eyes.

“The landlord. He came while you were at school, sweetie. I tried to reason with him, I really did-“

“The landlord? The guy who never leaves his apartment, even when we complained about our leaky faucets?” I pull my hands out of my mother’s and lean back in my chair.

That fucking deadbeat is the worst excuse for a landlord I’ve ever seen. Can’t be bothered to get off his ass unless a single mother can’t pay the rent? We’ve been here two years and the rent has never been late once, and this guy thinks he can kick us out? No way.

I stand up abruptly, the chair scratching across the tile floor. My mother grabs for my arm, but I’m faster than her. I open the door and slam it behind me before stomping down the stairs.

I look at each apartment door before stopping at the one marked J. SCHLATT - LANDLORD on a shitty, flaking, faux-gold plaque.

I lift my hand up and bang on the door, in a way I’d only ever seen on TV. I pause and listen, hearing nothing. My brows furrow and my anger brews stronger. I bang harder and harder before wincing and rubbing my hand. It was effective, apparently, because I hear noises coming from inside.

The door swings open and I take a step back. There stands our landlord, hair disheveled, lit cigarette hanging from his lips. We stand there a moment, looking each other over, both chests heaving with anger for different reasons.

“What do you want?” Schlatt finally asks, leaning against the doorframe and pulling the cigarette from his lips.

In this moment, all of my anger boils over… I shove him.

“Who do you think you are, huh?” I shove him again, my nails pressing into the plush flesh of his chest.

He stumbles back. Shock then anger spread across his face. He takes a drag from his cigarette before dropping it on the floor. He grabs me by my wrists and pulls me inches from his face as he exhales the smoke. I cough and try to turn my head, but he shakes me.

“You little bitch,” he seethes, “You think you can bang on my door and then shove me-“ he stops.

His eyes widen just the slightest bit, before a smirk spreads across his lips.

“Oh I know you. Your poor mother told me all about you today,” he shakes me with each sentence for emphasis. “Oh please, don’t evict me. I have a daughter about to graduate high school, please,” he says in a mocking tone.

I flinch, closing my eyes as he laughs.

My poor mother. She does the best she can for us. It’s not her fault my dad left.

“She’s never paid the rent late once, you don’t have to be such a fucking asshole!”

“That’s where you’re wrong, toots,” he shakes me again, “I own the fucking building. I can enforce the rules however I want.”

“What do you want? There must be some way we can work this out,” I spit, tugging against his grip.

“Get inside,” he jerks me into his apartment and closes the door before locking it.

I rub my sore wrists and take in my surroundings. Before I can get a good look around, he pushes me into a lounge chair, mumbling, “Sit.”

I sit up straighter in the chair and adjust my clothes, stiffening my expression again. He sits on the sofa across from me, pulling a fresh cigarette from the pack on the coffee table.

“You smoke, kid?” he asks with the cigarette between his lips before he lights it and takes a drag.

I cross my arms in front of my chest, “No.”

“Yeah, your mother suggested you were a fucking square,” he flicks ash into an ashtray.

My nails dig into my arms, my hatred for this man threatening to spill over. I want to tear his fucking head off, but I need something from him, so I have to play ball.

“Fine, give me one.”

He raises his eyebrow before sliding the pack and lighter to me. I grab them and place a cigarette in my lips before lighting it, taking a drag like I’ve seen my friends do a million times. I’m surprised when I exhale and I don’t start coughing. I feel a bit calmer, the nicotine quickly making my head feel floaty.

“Okay, well there must be some way we can work this out,” I start, “We’ve been model tenants for two years. This is the first time my mom hasn’t been able to make the rent on time-”

“No.”

I blink a few times, completely stunned.

“What?”

“I said ‘No’.”

“B-but-“

“I’m a businessman, toots,” he extinguishes the cigarette in the ashtray and stands up, “If you pay on time, you have a place to live. If you don’t, well… I can’t afford to be a pussy and let tenants do what they want, pay when they want. You’re a smart kid, you understand.”

I subconsciously take a drag of the cigarette in my hand before shaking my head and putting it in the same ashtray.

“I can’t believe this! You’re completely heartless!”

“Hey, you’re lucky I gave you until tomorrow afternoon to leave. I could’ve had you out tonight. Now, get out. You have a lot of packing to do.”

I swallow, preparing myself. I stand up and close my eyes.

“I’ll fuck you.”

“Excuse me?”

I sigh and take a deep breath, “If you let us stay, I’ll fuck you.”

Chapter Text

Schlatt shakes his head and pinches the bridge of his nose before taking a step towards me.

“Fuck off, kid,” he sighs with a dismissive wave, “You don’t know what you’re saying.”

I take a wide step towards him, closing the distance between us. I raise my trembling hands and trail my fingertips up his arms.

“C’mon, Schlatt…” I force a smirk, tracing a pattern on his chest, “I’m old enough to smoke, but not old enough to fuck?”

Schlatt’s chest raises and falls rapidly and a groan rumbles through his throat. I glance up at him to see if I’m winning. His eyes are shut tight, so I take the opportunity to take it a step further. My hands cup his cheeks, his mutton chops scratch my palms.

He sighs, “Y/n-“

I cut him off with my lips against his. Schlatt freezes against me, before surrendering and kissing me back. He wraps his arms around my small frame, squeezing my waist and rubbing my back. Goosebumps raise on the back of my neck.

Fuck. I’m fucked.

I tug on his hair, whimpering into his mouth. Schlatt takes this opportunity to snake his tongue into my mouth, sliding back and forth with mine. I reach my hand between us and rub the growing bulge in his jeans.

Schlatt groans against my lips, “Y/n… fucking stop, kid,” But he makes no effort to stop me. He doesn’t pull back from the kiss or push me away.

“Make me,” I mumble against his lips.

He suddenly stops the kiss, staring down at me, brows furrowed. Frankly, he looks pissed.

“Schlatt-“ I can barely start to make out an apology before he picks me up over his shoulder.

I try to look around, try to figure out where we’re going. I can tell we’re deeper into his apartment as he carries me down a hallway. At least he hasn’t kicked me out… yet.

Finally, I’m flung onto his bed. Schlatt’s pissed off expression is unchanged when I look up at him. I crawl backwards, towards the headboard, away from him. He grabs my foot and tugs me down the bed towards him.

“Ah, ah, ah,” he shakes his head and starts untying my shoe, “There’s no leaving now.”

I swallow loudly, my chest heaving. I watch as Schlatt carefully removes my shoes and socks before peeling his shirt off.

Shit. He’s hot. He’s really fucking hot.

Schlatt’s dad bod hangs proudly, a beer gut and soft chest masked with dark hair. His shoulders and arms are slightly toned, most likely from the minimal maintenance he does in this building. He catches me staring and I bite my lip.

He smirks, “You like what you see?”

I blush and nod from below him. He leans over before climbing on top of me, effectively trapping me between him and the mattress. If any part of me wanted to leave, it’d be impossible at this point.

Schlatt takes my mouth again, hungrier this time. I can tell all restraint is out the window. My hands hold his arms on either side of me before he pulls away, leaving me panting. He sits up and tugs at my shirt. I lean up and he quickly removes it. Instinctively, my arms wrap around to cover my tummy. Schlatt sees this and gently pulls my arms away. He latches his lips to my neck, leaving little bites and kisses.

“Don’t ever do that around me, toots. You understand? Never.”

I nod and whimper, feeling a warmth fluttering in my stomach from Schlatt’s attack on my neck.

“Good girl,” he purrs.

Schlatt reaches behind me and unhooks my bra. I let my arms go limp as he slides it off and tosses it onto the floor. He leans back and takes in the sight of my naked torso.

“You’re fucking beautiful, y/n.”

I turn my head, trying to hide my blush. He catches my chin between his thumb and index finger, turning my head to face him. He kisses me again as I lean back onto the pillow. My hand tugs on the hair on the back of Schlatt’s neck which elicits a groan.

His rough hands grip my waist as his tongue massages mine. Schlatt pulls away and kisses my jaw and down my neck before taking my nipple into his mouth. He moans and I whimper as his tongue dances around my stiffened peak.

“So fucking hot,” Schlatt mumbles before switching to my other breast, giving it equal attention.

He kisses down my tummy and starts to unbutton my pants. I watch him slide them down my legs, my chest heaving. As Schlatt pulls my panties down, a string of slick sticks to them, and I cover my face.

“ Fuck ,” he groans, “You’re so wet for me already, toots.”

He shoves my panties into the pocket of his jeans before standing up from the bed. I lean up on my elbows and watch as he removes his pants and boxers. My jaw nearly drops.

He’s thick, probably 7 inches long, and uncut. Balls hanging low. Hair as thick and wild as his muttonchops. He lazily strokes himself a few times and I feel the warmth flutter in my stomach again.

Jesus fuck. How is that supposed to fit in me?

Schlatt climbs back onto the bed and lays on his stomach, his face dangerously close to my pussy. I can feel his breath fanning over me, his tight grip on my thighs.

“Please,” I mumble, feeling my mouth getting dry.

“I’m gonna take good care of you, y/n, don’t you worry,” Schlatt smirks up at me.

I nod and lay back down and take a deep breath.

Immediately I gasp and moan out as he glues his mouth to my pussy. Mixing his spit with my juices, lapping me up. My hips jerk, my hands fist the sheets. When he starts circling his tongue around my clit, my fingers tug on his hair, needing him impossibly closer.

“Shit!” I cry out, “Feels so fucking good, Schlatt!”

He nods, “Come for me, babe. Come on my face like a good girl.”

After a few more flicks of his tongue, my back arches and I come hard. My thighs tremble and squeeze his head. I’m sure the heavens above can hear me screaming his name.

Only when he decides he’s satisfied does he pull away from me with a smirk, his face glistening. He rubs my thighs soothingly.

“That was amazing,” I pant, “Thank you.”

Schlatt chuckles, “I’m not done with you yet.”

He crawls up to kneel next to me and starts to rub my clit. My hips jerk and I whine from how sensitive I still am.

“I know, toots, but I gotta make sure my girl is nice and ready for me.”

Schlatt slides a thick finger inside my wet heat and my eyes flutter shut as he starts pumping.

“Jesus Christ, you’re so fucking tight,” he groans, “I’m gonna have to warm you up for a while before you can take me.”

I blush before he adds a second finger, scissoring them to open me up. My moans grow a bit louder with every curl he makes inside me. When he adds a third finger, I practically see stars. I start moaning wildly, my head rapidly turning from left to right. My hands are tugging the sheets, then squeezing my tits, then pulling my own hair. Schlatt smirks and uses his free hand to start rubbing my clit in tandem with his fingers pumping me.

“Oh god, oh fuck,” I pant, “Please don’t stop.”

“You already gonna come again, y/n?” He chuckles, “Such a good girl.”

Within half a second, I’m putty in his hands again, seeing stars as my body shakes violently. He slowly comes to a stop before removing his fingers.

“You didn’t tell me you were a squirter,” Schlatt darkly laughs before obscenely sucking my juices off his fingers.

Before I can say anything, he’s laying on top of me, positioning himself at my entrance.

“You ready, babe?”

I can barely bring myself to nod as I melt into the mattress, totally floating on a cloud. Thankfully, he sees my attempt, and slowly pushes himself inside. My back arches and I wince a bit at the stretch. Schlatt just soothes me and tells me to relax. When he’s fully bottomed out he groans.

“You okay?”

I bite my lip and nod, holding his arms. He pulls back and slams into me, setting a brutal pace. My eyes roll back as he slides in and out deliciously.

“So… full…” I moan with each thrust.

Schlatt groans, his head falls onto my shoulder. “You take it so well, y/n, such a fucking good girl, so fucking tight.”

He grabs my hips roughly and starts pounding into me harder than ever, a look of determination on his face. “Gonna make you come again. You’re so easy to get off, you little slut.”

“Fuck, oh god- please,” I whimper, “Don’t stop!”

“Look how you fucking take me, y/n. Stretching this tight little cunt over me.”

His words send chills down my spine. His voice, his smell, his cock… it’s all too much.

“Gonna… I’m gonna…”

“That’s it, toots, fucking come again,” Schlatt doesn’t slow his pace.

My nails dig into his back. I can feel myself almost about to tip over the edge. Just… a little… more…

“Mmm, mmm, almost… fuck!!” I throw my head back, moaning wildly as Schlatt fucks me through my third orgasm. He doesn’t let up, chasing his own high.

“You on the pill? You want me to pull out?”

“No, don’t,” I beg.

“Thank god,” he pants, “Gonna fucking fill you up. Gonna walk around so full of me. Fuck! You’re so fucking tight.”

His hips stutter and his thrusts become erratic. A bead of sweat drips off of his forehead and onto mine. Schlatt growls, “Fucking take it,” before he starts to come, “Fucking take it all.”

I whimper as I feel each rope coat my insides. He fucks me through his orgasm and collapses on top of me, both of us panting. I bring my hands around him, holding him to my chest and rubbing his back soothingly. We both catch our breaths, enjoying the silence.

“Fuck,” I finally say with a smile, “I never knew it could be that good. Now I know why everyone does it all the time.”

Schlatt lifts his head and looks at me quizzically, “What do you mean?”

I blush, “It was my first time.”

Schlatt’s eyes go wide and he looks between us where his cock is still buried inside me. He leans up and slowly pulls out, watching his load and the tiniest bit of blood leak out of my puffy, used hole. He turns his head to the side and closes his eyes. He fully sits up and grabs a cigarette from the nightstand, lighting it and taking a deep drag.

I wrap the blanket around my chest and sit up. I lean over and kiss his back. “Thank you, I really enjoyed it.”

Schlatt flinches and sighs, “You should go.”

I pull back a bit, clutching the blanket tighter. “W-what?”

“Get out, kid,” he holds his head in his hands.

Chapter Text

It’s been about a week since I left Schlatt’s apartment. I just grabbed my clothes from the floor and got dressed in his bathroom before leaving, without another word between us. I ran out of our building onto the street and cried on the sidewalk.

Why did he act like that? He didn’t even hold me afterwards or kiss me goodbye. Was that childish of me to think? Wasn’t that how sex was supposed to go?

After a few minutes, I gathered myself and stood up. My mother was probably worried sick, and I’d have to tell her we still have to leave tomorrow.

You can do this, y/n.

I straightened myself up and walked back into our building. Each step up the stairs felt like a rock rumbling in my stomach.

Fuck, what am I gonna say?

I opened the door to our apartment and…

Chicken?

I stepped inside and closed the door behind me.

“Mom?”

“Y/n!” she called back to me, “I’m in the kitchen!”

I swallowed and took a few deep breaths before I walked towards the kitchen. I poked my head around the wall and saw my mom, cooking dinner and humming to herself. She saw me out of the corner of her eye and turned to me, walking towards me quickly...

And she hugged me. Her warm embrace both comforting and confusing.

“Oh thank you, y/n! Thank you, thank you, you sweet girl!”

“Uhhh what did I do?” I laughed nervously and hugged her back.

She pulled away just enough to look me in the eyes, “Schlatt just came by to say you’d help him around his apartment as a way to make up for the missing rent!” Her smile spread from ear to ear.

“H-he did?”

“You have such a full plate with graduation in a few months and finals and homework, but you still find a way to help out your mom. How lucky am I to have raised such a wonderful daughter?” Her eyes welled up, threatening to spill.

“You’re um… you’re burning dinner, mom,” I changed the subject with a smile.

She hurried over and stirred the pot before telling me to have a seat.

We enjoyed a pleasant dinner before I excused myself to do my homework in my room.

As I sat on my bed, textbook in my lap, I replayed my mom’s words in my head.

“…you’d help him around his apartment…”

Does that mean he wants me to come over again? Does he really want my help?

I went to sleep that night giddy at what was to come.

But that was a week ago, and I haven’t seen Schlatt since. Every day after school I knock on his door, trying to offer my help, to keep my end of the bargain. But every day he doesn’t answer. So every day I sit outside in the courtyard of our building and do my homework for an hour so my mom doesn’t know.

Until today.

“Shit!”

“Oh god I’m so sorry!” I exclaim as I bump into someone while coming around the corner.

I hear stuff clatter onto the floor and know it has to be the other person’s belongings. I kneel down and start picking up screwdrivers and wrenches, putting them back into the toolbox on the floor.

“Fucking watch where you’re going next time-“ he pauses.

I look up and see Schlatt looking back down at me.

“-Kid,” he sighs.

“Hey,” I smile.

“Hey,” he responds gruffly. He kneels down in front of me, organizing the toolbox.

“Did you need my help today? I can come over after-“

“No,” he cuts me off.

“But you told my mom-“

“I fucking said ‘No’, y/n,” he raises his voice and runs his fingers through his hair.

I hand him the last wrench and rest my hands in my lap.

“I could help with other things,” I smirk and wiggle my eyebrows.

Schlatt looks disgusted, in fact he practically shivers as he stands up, “Ugh, no. Just forget about that. You and your mom can stay here, I don’t care.”

I look down in my lap and frown before standing up too, dusting myself off.

“Did I do something wrong? You were so cold and dismissive afterwards and… Look, I know it was my first time, but-“

Schlatt cuts me off again, angrier, “Will you just fucking drop it? Holy shit! It happened once, and it won’t happen again! I was being a fucking idiot.”

I flinch at his tone, “What did I do wrong? Why are you acting like this??”

He grits his teeth, chest heaving, “Because you’re just a stupid fucking kid! What were you thinking?? Losing-“ he lowers his voice and steps closer to me, “Losing your virginity to a grown ass man without even telling him. That’s the kind of thing you fucking tell somebody beforehand!” he hisses.

I lower my volume to match his, “I was fucking desperate! You were gonna kick us out! I graduate in a few months, I can’t fucking deal with that right now! So forgive me, but I didn’t think you’d be interested in fucking a virgin!”

“You’re god damn right I wouldn’t be!”

I take a step back, my voice returning to normal, “So this was just a mistake then?”

“Fucking gold star for you,” he huffs.

Tears well up in my eyes. I inhale sharply through my nose to contain myself.

“Yeah, well, I’m sorry you have so much regret. Must’ve been the worst thing for you,” I say sarcastically, “I’ll graduate and go to college and you’ll never have to see me again, how’s that?”

“Fine by me,” he shrugs, looking anywhere but my eyes.

“Fine.”

“Fine.”

With that, I continue down the hall to my apartment. I open the door and pass my mother in the living room before shutting myself in my room. I lay down and cry into my pillow, letting it all out.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m not naive. I wasn’t expecting flowers. I didn’t think we loved each other or that we’d be together forever. I thought maybe we’d do it a few more times. Then I would move off to college and find my real love. That’s all.

But I certainly wasn’t expecting this.

Chapter Text

The past few months have gone by painfully slow. I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t been thinking about Schlatt. The way his hands felt on my hips, his lips on my neck, his cock in my-

Look, I’m getting carried away.

I wish he’d just talk to me and tell me what the fuck went wrong.

But, true to my word, I’ve been leaving him alone. Everyday, I come home from school and just do my homework for an hour in the courtyard so my mom doesn’t know. Fucking asshole could at least use my help to clean his apartment.

Whatever.

School’s been alright. Prom came and went. I didn’t go, no one asked me. Just like no one ever asks me to anything. Sure I have friends, but no one wants to go with friends. You want a date. You want to take the cheesy pictures. You want to slow dance. You want to maybe get groped in the limo on the way home.

Instead, I stayed home and got drunk on my mom’s stash. Almost stumbled my way to Schlatt’s door, until I remembered the way he looked at me.

“Ugh, no. Just forget about that.”

“Because you’re just a stupid fucking kid! What were you thinking??”

I knew I’d be happy once finals were over and I could get out of this fucking building. Maybe some distance from Schlatt will take my mind off of him. At least I got into my dream school. Sweet scholarship, too. Though, something tells me crossing state lines wouldn’t be far enough.

All the week through finals, I was really sick. Fucking nerves. I’m sure overthinking about Schlatt didn’t help. Aced them, though. College here I come.

God, why did he have to be such a dick?? We could’ve had a nice, long, hot celebration.

Focus, damn it!

Today is my graduation ceremony. My mother has pinched my cheeks and hugged me with tears in her eyes about 20 times already and we haven’t even left the apartment. I straighten my gown in the bathroom mirror and practice my smile a couple times.

Let’s go, girl.

My mother drives me to school, for the last time. She walks me through the halls, reminiscing about when she was my age and she attended.

“…And this used to be where Mrs. Fort taught US History. God! She was my favorite!” she gushes, “The way she’d go on and on about The Revolutionary War, you’d think she was actually there.”

I laugh and watch my mom go to the next classroom. Man, I’m gonna miss her. She was the best mom I could’ve asked for, did everything she could for me.

I guess that’s why I did what I could for her.

“Baby?”

I blink and look at her, “Yeah, mom? Sorry I zoned out for a minute.”

She rubs my back and smiles warmly, “You got something you wanna tell me?”

“No mama,” I smile and kiss her cheek, “C’mon, you’re gonna make me late.”

I stand in line with my fellow classmates as our names get called. My stomach turns a bit. Not to be dramatic, but it feels like everything is about to change.

“Y/f/n y/l/n,” I hear my name echo through the auditorium.

I step forward and shake the principal’s hand, taking my diploma.

I’m done. Holy shit, I’m done. I’m outta here.

A camera flashes and time slows down as I walk off the stage and take my seat.

I’m onto adulthood now. The past four years were tirelessly spent paving the road for me to get into my dream school on a full scholarship. And now it’s over. I feel a weight lift off my chest as I throw my cap in the air.

My mom takes a few pictures of my friends and I. We drive home. There’s a piece of paper taped to the front door of our apartment.

CONGRATS GRAD! written with black marker.

I peel it off before heading inside, taking my cap and gown off and hanging it in the closet.

“I’m just gonna go for a walk, clear my head. Big day, y’know?” I kiss my mother on the cheek.

“I know, honey, take your time,” she smiles at me.

I walk downstairs, note in hand, to the person I know taped it to my door.

I gently knock on his door. A moment later, Schlatt opens it with a tiny smile tugging at his lips. I shove the note into his chest before letting it fall to the floor.

“What the fuck is this??”

“Whoa! Hey, y/n, calm down!”

“Don’t tell me to calm down!”

“Will you lower your voice??” he looks left and right down the hallway.

My chest heaves, breathing audible. I push past him and into his apartment. I sit in the same lounge chair as the last time I was here and grab a cigarette. As I light it and take a drag, I hear Schlatt sigh and close the door.

“Yeah, make yourself at home,” he says sarcastically before sitting across from me and doing the same.

We both sit there, smoking quietly, waiting for the other to talk.

“Why did you leave that note? I know it was you.”

Schlatt shrugs and picks at loose threads on his couch, “Just wanted to congratulate you, I know you worked hard.”

“You don’t know shit about me, Schlatt.”

His brows furrow and he takes a final drag of his cigarette before putting it out in the ashtray, “Your mom told me.”

I scoff, “You talk to my mom, but won’t talk to me?”

“No, when I told her you’d be helping me. She asked if I was sure because you were already doing a lot for school.”

“Whatever,” I extinguish my cigarette too.

“Will you just fucking get over it? Jesus, you’re acting like a child.”

“Oh, I’m sorry. Was I supposed to jump for joy? You don’t speak to me for months, you won’t even tell me why or talk to me about it like an adult, and then you leave that corny ass note on my door like that was gonna make everything better,” I cross my arms over my chest.

Schlatt sighs and rubs his hands over his face.

“I was trying to forget, I really was. I probably would’ve succeeded too if you hadn’t done that.”

He doesn’t reply. He just sits on the couch with his head in his hands, the same way he did after we had sex.

“Goodbye, Schlatt” I stand up from the chair, smoothing out my dress.

I lean down and kiss his cheek. I open his door and look back at him, “Don’t bother me again.”

He still doesn’t say anything, just sits there staring at me.

And I leave his apartment.

Chapter Text

Fuck.

And I mean fuck.

Fucking fuck.

FUCK!

Five minutes. You don’t think your whole life can change in the course of five fucking minutes.

I lean over the toilet and throw up. I wipe my mouth and flush.

“Oh god, fuck me,” I groan, leaning against the tub.

My mom taps on the bathroom door, “You alright, baby?”

I sit up a bit, “Yeah, don’t worry about me.”

“Alright well, you still want lunch?”

“Yeah, yeah, I’m coming.”

I stand up and quickly brush my teeth. Splashing water on my face helps. Feels cleansing, like starting new. I suppose I am.

My mom plates up a sandwich and some chips for me, setting it across from her at the table. I come out and join her, pushing my food around on the plate.

“What’s wrong, y/n? You got that look on your face, I can tell something’s up.”

A chip clangs against the plate when I drop it. I rub my forehead.

“Mama, I think I really fucked up this time.”

“Well, just tell me, baby, it can’t be that bad. There’s nothing we can’t fix-“

“I’m pregnant,” I cut her off.

She takes a deep breath, “Oh, baby…”

“Everything I worked for- all the sacrifices you made for me… just pissed away. One fucking stupid mistake and my whole future is flushed down the toilet.”

“Are you sure, y/n? Absolutely sure?”

“Yeah, I took like five tests this morning. They can’t all be wrong.”

She nods, taking it in.

“Do you know who the father is?”

“Oh Jesus Christ, mom! Of course I do!” I cross my arms over my chest, “I’m not that kind of girl.”

“Well clearly you’re some kind of girl, because I did not raise you to be this irresponsible!”

“Don’t you think I’m beating myself up enough? I don’t need this!”

“Alright, alright, you’re right,” she sighs, “You’re right, this isn’t what you need right now.”

My eyes tear up and I nod.

“Have you thought about… y’know?”

I look at my mother, disgusted, “So that’s your big plan to ‘fix this’?!”

“All I’m saying is you have worked too damn hard for your future to have this… mistake get in your way!”

“Two wrongs don’t make a right.”

“You don’t wanna do this, y/n. You have no idea how hard it is raising a kid.”

The chair drags across the floor as I stand up, “I can’t believe you right now,” I turn around and head for the door.

“Y/n please! Listen to me!”

I slam the door and stomp downstairs. Tears streaming down my face as I knock on his door.

“Please answer, please,” I beg between sobs.

The door flies open, “What- Jesus Christ, kid, what’s wrong??” Schlatt reaches his hands out to hold my shoulders, “Are you okay? Is your mom okay??”

I just wrap my arms around his sides and bury my face in his chest. He holds me close, rubbing my back. We stand there a moment. When I stop crying, I lift my face up and look at him. Schlatt stares down at me with his brown eyes, his long eyelashes fluttering when he blinks. I lean up and kiss him, walking us into his apartment and kicking his door closed.

“No, y/n, no,” Schlatt gently pushes me back.

“Please, Schlatt,” I pull his jacket off, “Please, I need you.” I peel my shirt off and toss it aside

“Stop, you’re not thinking straight,” he grabs my shirt and tries to hand it to me.

“Please, I wanna do better than last time. I’ll do anything you want,” I beg him.

He stands in front of me, that same pissed off expression from before spreads across his face. Schlatt’s chest heaves with anger, his hands are clenched into fists at his sides. He roughly grabs my arm and pulls me to follow him. When I see Schlatt’s bed, my tummy flutters, but then he tugs me into his bathroom.

“Wha-?”

“Strip,” he cuts me off.

I just nod and do as he says. He doesn’t take his eyes off of me the whole time.

“Get in the tub, y/n.”

“Schlatt, I don’t understa-“

“If you wanna do this, you’re gonna do it my way, toots. Or you can get the fuck out, and don’t come back,” he bends down and grabs my panties, shoving them in his pants pocket again, “Now get in the fucking tub. And I don’t wanna hear another word ‘til I say.”

I nod again and step into the tub. Schlatt unbuckles his belt, “Kneel.”

I silently do as he says. He stands above me, shoving his pants and underwear down to his ankles. He strokes himself a few times, my eyes glued to his cock. I slide my hand between my legs and start to rub myself.

“I want you to close your eyes and open your mouth, like the good little desperate slut you are.”

I nod and place my hands on his thighs to hold me steady. I close my eyes and open my mouth, sticking my tongue out as far as it’ll go. I ready myself to give my first blowjob.

It can’t be that hard, right? Everyone does it all the time.

Instead, I feel warmth on my chest.

What the hell?

I open my eyes and see Schlatt, pissing on me. Fucking pissing on me. I try to lean back, but he grabs the back of my head, “You stay right there, bitch.”

His flow continues, trickling down my tummy and legs. He aims his cock higher, pissing into my mouth as he watches. His eyes are blown out and lips slightly parted as the bitter liquid dribbles off my tongue. The look on his face turns me on to no end. My hand continues working on my clit.

“You dirty girl,” he pants, “You like it, don’t you? Answer me.”

“Uh huh,” I manage with my mouth open.

His stream trickles to an end. He taps his tip on my tongue, flicking the last few drops into my mouth. I look in his eyes as I wrap my lips around his tip and suck the last bit out of him like a juice box.

“Fuck,” Schlatt’s breath shudders, “Get up. Take a shower, you’re fucking filthy.”

My knees ache as I stand up, he turns the water on. I quickly wash my hair and rinse myself off as Schlatt watches me. A look of pure lust on his face as he hands me a towel.

I dry off as fast as possible and rinse my mouth with mouthwash before dropping the towel to the floor and kicking it aside. Schlatt fills the space between us and takes my face in his hands before kissing me. The passion and hunger between us makes it clear to me that it wasn’t just me missing him these past few months.

Schlatt pushes me backwards and lifts me up onto the counter, his lips never leaving mine. I quickly slide my tongue into his mouth.

“My dirty little girl,” he mumbles into me.

“Only for you,” I moan.

My hands slide up onto his hairy chest and I feel a groan rumble through him. He grabs my waist and pulls me off the counter as I wrap my legs around him. He carries me to his bedroom and tosses me on the bed. He quickly joins me, nestled between my legs.

“Been thinking about this sweet little cunt for months,” Schlatt licks a wet stripe up my core, “And your noises, fuck.”

He doesn’t waste any time and dives right in. My hands tangle in his hair, tugging gently.

“Shit,” I whimper, “I missed you so much.”

“Don’t talk,” he slides a finger inside me, “Just lay there and take it.”

My back arches and I pant, practically melting already. Schlatt smirks and adds a second finger before returning his mouth to my clit, sucking and circling his tongue.

“Please, I can’t wait,” I squirm and moan.

“So desperate for my cock, aren’t you, toots?”

I pathetically nod.

Schlatt smirks and climbs on top of me, kissing me again. I can taste myself on his tongue and I whimper. He pulls away and looks between us, lining himself up with my entrance.

“You gonna be a little bitch again and whine? Or are you gonna take it with no complaints this time?”

Now it’s my turn to smirk, “Took it like a champ last time. Just fuck me already, you’re stalling.”

“You’re gonna eat those words, toots,” he slams into me. I let out a pornographic moan and I hear him chuckle above me, “Good girl, I’m impressed.”

He starts thrusting hard and deep, his face buried in the crook of my neck. My fingers tug at his hair.

“So fucking good, Schlatt,” I moan, “Gonna come so fast.”

“Say my fucking name,” he grunts.

“Schlatt,” I purr.

“John,” he thrusts harder, “My name is John.”

Hearing his name sends a shiver down my spine. My nails scratch down his back.

“I’m gonna come, John,” I whimper.

He lifts my legs so my ankles are on either side of his face and thrusts faster, hitting a spot that makes me see stars.

“Oh fuck, don’t stop! Please please, don’t stop, John… oh god, oh fuck! Yes yes yes-!”

My eyes roll back in my head as my orgasm crashes over me in waves. I hear him groan and pant as I clench around his length. He brings my legs back down and kisses my neck.

“You alright?” he asks with a chuckle.

“Mmhmm.”

“Good, ‘cause I’m not done,” he smirks, thrusting into me again.

He’s getting close, I can tell. His breathing stutters and his movements become erratic.

“You still on the pill?”

Damn. Just when I had forgotten why I came down here in the first place…

“Oh um- yeah yeah, I am.”

“Fucking good girl, gonna fill this pretty cunt up,” he grunts, “Gonna be so fucking full of me, baby.”

He crashes his lips into mine, chasing his own high. I wrap my arms around him, pulling him close.

“Want you to fill me up, John,” I whisper, “Wanna feel you drip down my legs.”

That seems to egg him on, “Oh fuck, you’re so god damn tight. Gonna fucking come, y/n! Fuck!” his hips crash into mine and he groans into my neck, thrusting a few more times as he empties into me.

Schlatt collapses onto me, panting. I gently rub his back, wondering how long I have this time before he kicks me out again. He kisses my neck and rubs my hips. I whimper when he pulls out, overstimulation still coursing through me.

He sits next to me on his bed and grabs a pack of cigarettes from the nightstand. I lean up and sit against the headboard with him. He lights a cigarette and hands it to me before lighting himself one and putting an ashtray between us on the bed.

He takes and drag and slowly exhales, “Nothing better than a smoke afterwards, you’ll learn.”

I take a drag too, feeling the floaty feeling in my head amplify as I exhale, “Fuck, you’re right,” I laugh.

Schlatt laughs too, taking another drag, “So, you gonna tell me why you were so upset?”

“No, it’s stupid,” I frown looking down at the cigarette in my hand.

I’m not supposed to be doing this.

I quickly extinguish it in the ashtray, “I should go.”

“Well, hang on, you don’t have to,” Schlatt grabs my hand.

“No, really, I don’t wanna overstay my welcome,” I stand up, “Thank you, though, I needed the distraction.”

He watches me, bewildered, as I walk to the bathroom to gather my clothes. I walk back to the bedroom and start to get dressed.

“Was that okay?” he nods to the bathroom.

I pull my shirt over my head, “Yeah, I just wasn’t expecting it,” I laugh, “You really caught me by surprise.”

Schlatt chuckles and puts his cigarette out in the ashtray. I pull my pants up and start buttoning them when he wraps his arms around my waist from behind.

“We can do it again next time, if you want,” he purrs in my ear.

“I’m leaving next month, and… I don’t think it’s good for us to do this again.”

He abruptly pulls back, arms falling to his sides.

“So that’s it?” he huffs, “We just fuck whenever you want? When it’s convenient for you?”

I turn around and face him with a sigh, “Schlatt, you said it yourself, I’m a stupid fucking kid. Who else would try to solve a problem with sex?”

He just stands there wordlessly.

“It’s not the right time for us,” I lean up and kiss his cheek, “I’m sorry.”

Still, he doesn’t say anything to me.

And I leave his apartment again, though it feels more permanent this time.

Chapter Text

Three months ago

Schlatt’s POV

A smug look spreads across my face as I walk down the hall and up the stairs of my building. I raise my fist to knock on my tenant’s door.

“Who is it?” a voice from inside calls.

“Schlatt, your landlord,” I answer.

She opens the door with a smile, “Hey, good afternoon Schlatt, how are you?”

“Well, I’m not doing too good, y/m/n,” I lean against the door frame and cross my arms, “Your rent is late.”

Her smile quickly falters and she starts stuttering, “I-I’m sorry, I have some, just not a-all of it-“

“I expect every cent that’s due in my mailbox on the first of every month, you know that,” I cut her off, taking pleasure in watching her squirm.

Usually, single mothers are my favorite kind of tenant. They’re usually militant with paying the rent on time and keep their brats quiet, extremely fearful of being evicted.

Apparently not this one.

“I’m sorry, Schlatt!” she holds onto my shirt, “M-my daughter, y/n, she’s just about to graduate high school a-and her birthday is coming up, I just had some unexpected expenses this past month, I just need a little more time…”

My ears turn off as she rambles on, begging and making excuses. I roll my eyes and huff, “None of that is really my problem, though. Is it?” I pull her hands off my shirt, “I want you out by this time tomorrow.”

I step back and walk down the hallway. I can hear her crying and begging, but I just don’t care. As a businessman, I have to make sure people pay. Every cent, on time. No late payments, no partial payments. Rent is rent. I shouldn’t have to explain that to a woman 10-15 years my senior, nor accept excuses from her.

In my apartment, I pour myself a celebratory drink. Taking a sip and savoring the flavor, I reach for my cigarettes and light one. Inhaling the smoke and feeling it co-mingle with the drink is almost euphoric. A smile spreads across my face and I lean my head back in my chair.

~~

“It was my first time,” she smiles at me with blush in her cheeks.

Jesus Christ. What have I fucking done? What did she make me do? Oh god. Fuck!

I fully sit up and turn away from y/n, my legs hang off the side of my bed. I grab a cigarette from the nightstand and light it, taking a long drag. I feel her weight behind me shifting on the mattress and feel her kiss my bare back.

“Thank you, I really enjoyed it,” she whispers against my skin.

I flinch and sigh, “You should go.”

Feeling guilt and something else bubbling up in my stomach, I just can’t stand her near me anymore.

The mattress shifts again, “W-what?”

Is she fucking deaf?

“Get out, kid,” I hold my head in my hands, ashamed of what I’d done.

She wordlessly gets up and grabs her clothes from the floor, running into the bathroom to get dressed. Less than five minutes later, she re-emerges.

I can feel the weight of her gaze on me, but I don’t look at her. It would be too much right now. I know the look she has on her face. If I look now, I’ll tell her she can stay.

I hear the front door shut and I know she’s gone. I let out a breath I didn’t know I was holding, and take a final drag before putting my cigarette out.

Oh fuck. I can’t kick them out. She’d tell her mom, and that bitch would probably call the cops. Even though it was her daughter that came onto me!

I quickly stand up and get dressed, rushing up the stairs to their apartment. I knock on the door and tap my foot.

Her mother answers the door, “What do you want now?”

“I just uhh..” I scramble to think of anything to say, “I just wanted to let you know that you and your daughter can stay,” I finally blurt out.

She raises an eyebrow, “What changed your mind?”

Fucking cunt couldn’t just be grateful??

“Uhh y/n came by, said she’d help me around my apartment to make up for what was missing of the rent.”

“She did? She’s so busy with homework and finals… That selfless girl,” her eyes tear up.

Oh, Jesus fucking Christ.

I mentally roll my eyes, forcing a smile on my face, “Yeah, so it’s all sorted out, have a goodnight,” I quickly turn and walk back down the hall.

I hear her thanking me before closing her door. My feet quickly carry me down the stairs and back into my apartment. I slam the door shut and practically throw myself onto the couch.

What the fuck, Schlatt? It’s one thing to fuck a minor. It’s a completely different thing to be her first. And who would just omit that? That’s the kinda thing you tell someone before!

Should I have been gentler? No, no… she liked it. She came three times.

I hold my head in my hands again.

I’m never gonna shake her now. I’m just gonna have to be completely cold. She has to be with someone her own age. No matter how badly I’d kill to have her little pussy shaking around my face again-

I’m getting carried away.

I reach in my pocket and feel her panties in my fingers before pulling them out.

This is gonna be rough.

One week later

“Fucking cunt,” I mumble under my breath.

I’ve just finished fixing the air conditioner in my tenant’s apartment.

I know it’s like 90° outside, but did she have to be such a bitch about it? Fucking boomer. I really should hire a maintenance guy-

“Shit!” Someone rounds the corner at the same time and bumps into me, my tools and toolbox clatter on the floor.

“Fucking watch where you’re going next time-!“ I look down and see her kneeling, picking up my tools, “-Kid.”

“Hey,” she smiles up at me.

Fuck.

“Hey,” I respond gruffly. I kneel in front of her, organizing the tools she’s just randomly throwing in my toolbox.

“Did you need my help today? I can come over after-“

Oh Jesus.

“No,” I cut her off.

“But you told my mom-“

This fucking kid.

“I fucking said ‘ No ’, y/n,” I raise my voice and run my fingers through my hair.

She just won’t quit. I have to be stern.

She hands me the last wrench and almost looks disappointed.

Good.

“I could help with other things,” she smirks and wiggles her eyebrows.

I practically shiver as I stand up, “Ugh, no. Just forget about that. You and your mom can stay here, I don’t care.”

I knew this would happen, saw it coming a mile away. This is what happens when you give a virgin her first orgasm.

She stands up too, dusting herself off.

“Did I do something wrong? You were so cold and dismissive afterwards and… Look, I know it was my first time, but-“

I cut her off again, angrier, “Will you just fucking drop it? Holy shit! It happened once, and it won’t happen again! I was being a fucking idiot.”

She flinches at my tone. Good.

“What did I do wrong? Why are you acting like this??”

I grit my teeth, chest heaving, “Because you’re just a stupid fucking kid! What were you thinking?? Losing-“ I pause, fearful other tenants might hear. I lower my voice and step closer to her, “-Losing your virginity to a grown ass man without even telling him. That’s the kind of thing you fucking tell somebody beforehand!” I hiss through clenched teeth.

She lowers her volume to match mine, “I was fucking desperate! You were gonna kick us out! I graduate in a few months, I can’t fucking deal with that right now! So forgive me, but I didn’t think you’d be interested in fucking a virgin!”

“You’re god damn right I wouldn’t be!”

She takes a step back from me, her voice returning to normal volume, “So this was just a mistake then?”

“Fucking gold star for you,” I say sarcastically.

Seriously, how did she not get the memo by now? I’ve been avoiding her for a week. Even going so far as to ignore tenants’ issues on her floor so I wouldn’t risk running into her.

Tears well up in her eyes. She inhales sharply through her nose.

Great, here come the waterworks. What’s with her and her mom and fucking crying at everything?

“Yeah, well, I’m sorry you have so much regret. Must’ve been the worst thing for you,” she says sarcastically and I roll my eyes, “I’ll graduate and go to college and you’ll never have to see me again, how’s that?”

“Fine by me,” I shrug, looking anywhere but her.

“Fine.”

“ Fine .”

We both turn around and return to our respective apartments.

Three months later

Months pass by painfully slow. Obviously, y/n has been stuck on my mind. Who can blame a guy? The way her hands felt on my chest, the innocent way she covered her chubby tummy, the look on her face when I-

I’m getting carried away.

But, seriously, I don’t know why I give a fuck. Pussy is pussy. I’ve had plenty of it. Hell, I could go get some right now, if I wanted. Maybe it would take my mind off of the way she drunkenly stumbled down my hall while I watched from the peephole, wishing she’d knock.

From eavesdropping, I know y/n is about to graduate. Her mother was proudly bragging on the phone to a friend as she brought in groceries, while I stood in the kitchen fixing her leaky faucet.

I wish I could send flowers or something to congratulate her. Graduating high school with a full ride to college is not an easy feat. Would it be weird if I did something? Or weirder if I didn’t?

When I watch them leave, y/n’s mom in her Sunday best and y/n in her cap and gown, I run my fingers through my hair. I think I’ll leave a note. There’s no way she’d know it was me.

I grab a piece of paper and a marker and scribble CONGRATS GRAD! before taking it upstairs and taping it to their door. Fine, now I’ve done at least something. It’s not balloons, it’s not cash, but it’s something. I go back to my apartment and decide to take a nap.

A few hours later, knocking on my door wakes me from my nap. I look through the peephole, it’s y/n holding my note. I smile a bit and open the door before she angrily shoves the note into my chest.

“What the fuck is this??”

“Whoa! Hey, y/n, calm down!”

“Don’t tell me to calm down!”

“Will you lower your voice??” I look left and right down the hallway.

She pushes past me into my apartment. She sits in the same lounge chair I was just napping in and grabs one of my cigarettes. As she lights it, I sigh and close the door.

“Yeah, make yourself at home,” I grumble sarcastically before sitting across from her and doing the same.

We both sit there, smoking quietly, as I wait for her to talk. I can tell she’s unhappy, but I want her to say it.

“Why did you leave that note? I know it was you.”

I shrug and pick at loose threads on my couch.

What am I supposed to say to that? “I haven’t been able to get you off my mind for three months”?

“Just wanted to congratulate you, I know you worked hard.”

“You don’t know shit about me, Schlatt.”

My brows furrow and I put my cigarette out in the ashtray, “Your mom told me.”

She scoffs, “You talk to my mom, but won’t talk to me?”

Fucking drama queen.

“No, when I told her you’d be helping me. She asked if I was sure because you were already doing a lot for school.”

“Whatever,” she extinguishes her cigarette too.

“Will you just fucking get over it? Jesus, you’re acting like a child.”

“Oh, I’m sorry. Was I supposed to jump for joy? You don’t speak to me for months, you won’t even tell me why or talk to me about it like an adult, and then you leave that corny ass note on my door like that was gonna make everything better,” she crosses her arms.

I just sigh and rub my face, because deep down I know she’s right.

“I was trying to forget, I really was. I probably would’ve succeeded too if you hadn’t done that.”

I don’t reply. I can’t think of anything constructive to say. I just sit on the couch with my head in my hands, the same way I did after we had sex. I had tried to be nice and just ended up hurting and confusing her more.

“Goodbye, Schlatt” she stands up.

I feel her kiss my cheek. I lift my head up as she opens my door and looks back at me, “Don’t bother me again.”

I still don’t say anything, just sit there staring at her.

And she leaves my apartment.

Chapter Text

It’s been about a month since I found out I was pregnant. When I turn to the side, I can see the tiniest bump poking out past my usual tummy. I find myself talking to it like it can hear me. I don’t know the gender or want to know, I just want it healthy.

I’ve been to the doctor twice now. Alone. Once to confirm the pregnancy and find out my due date, and a second to make sure my baby is growing at a healthy rate. All is well, I’ve been taking my prenatal vitamins and avoiding things I should. I asked the doctor if the cigarette I smoked hurt my baby and she gently laughed.

“While it’s not good and I definitely don’t advise doing it again, your baby is fine, y/n. You’d be surprised, I’ve had mothers tell me they took a shot of tequila right after finding out. It’s a stressful time, especially if the pregnancy wasn’t planned. As long as it was just once and you won’t do it again, you and your baby will be healthy. We’ll run all the usual tests when it’s born, but I’m betting it’ll be fine.”

That definitely took some weight off my shoulders.

I haven’t seen Schlatt, I’ve practically been avoiding him. I just haven’t made up my mind if I should tell him or not. I know I should, but he’s made it pretty clear these past few months that he wants nothing to do with me. It’s a god damn mystery to me why he even let me sleep with him again.

With summer break coming to an end, I have a big decision to make. Well, another big decision. Should I try to go to school or just go straight to work? That’s a decision for another day. I wish my mom would stop pretending the baby doesn’t exist. I need her now more than ever.  

I close my eyes and pull the blanket tight around me.

Tomorrow is a new day.

~~

“Happy birthday my sweet girl!”

I peek my eyes open, waking up a bit. I see my mom standing at the foot of my bed with a cake. Eighteen candles melt onto the frosting.

“Thanks, mom,” I mumble, my voice still gravelly from sleep.

I sit up and blow the candles out before rubbing my eyes.

“Make a wish, baby!”

I wish I knew what to do. I wish you’d talk to me, be my mom again!

My mom leaves my room and closes the door behind her. I lay back down and stare at the ceiling.

I rub my face with my hands and sit back up. I can’t do this shit right now. Today’s my first step into adulthood, but I don’t have the energy for adult decisions right now.

I stretch my arms over my head with a groan and fully sit up.

“You ready to start the day?” I rub my belly and smile.

My joints crack as I stand up and walk to my closet, picking out clothes for today. I don’t really have any plans, so probably something casual.

“Hurry up! I wanna give you your present!” my mother calls from the living room.

I strip away my pajamas and slowly get dressed in a comfy, flowy sun dress. Something that doesn’t cling to the skin. It’s too damn hot for that.

I brush my teeth in the shared bathroom before joining my mom in the living room. “What did you get me that has you so excited?” I smile.

She hands me a small box with a ribbon tied into a bow on it, her smile spreading from ear to ear, “Go on, open it! I can’t wait a minute longer!”

I softly laugh at my mom’s excitement and untie the ribbon. I open the box and dump the contents into my hand.

“Wh-what is this??” I look up at her.

“I got you a car, baby!” she squeals.

“How?” I ask, a wide smile on my face. I turn the key over in my hand.

“Well… a few months ago when I couldn’t get all the rent together, it was because I needed to pay the down payment.”

Oh.

“And since I won’t have to pay for your living expenses when you move out in a few weeks, that extra money will go towards your payments…”

I can tell she’s still going on, but I can’t hear her. She wanted to get me a car, so she almost got us evicted.

“…and then you can pay for your own insurance!” she finishes with a sigh, “Well let me go show you!” she grabs my hand and pulls me up from the couch.

We go downstairs and out onto the street before she points out a small SUV.

“It’s not an Escalade, but it’s perfect for a first car. Do you like it?”

“Yeah mama, I love it,” I force a smile and pull her into a hug, “Thank you.”

She puts a hand on my back and starts telling me all about the car.

Schlatt’s POV

“Oh god!” she whines, “Forgot how good you feel inside me!”

I watch as y/n bounces on my cock like a pro. My hands on her hips, guiding her movements. If I didn’t know any better, I’d think she’s been practicing. My old couch creaks below us.

“You love my cock, don’t you? Say you love my fat cock, y/n.”

She pants and whimpers, “I love your fat cock, John. Love the way it fills my tight little pussy!”

“Fuck, you’re so hot. Gonna stuff you full, baby. You want that? Want my load deep in your cunt?”

“Please!” she moans above me. Her eyes are screwed shut, focused on her movements.

I watch with my mouth open as my cock disappears in and out of her. Such a tight fit.

“I’m gonna come, y/n, don’t stop.”

“Fucking come, John. Come deep in my little pussy. No one gets to but you. It would be the best birthday present ever. Fill me up, baby.”

“Fuck!” I groan as my hand comes to a slow stop.

I open my eyes and see y/n’s panties wrapped around my cock, soiled with my load.

“Fuck,” I pant, peeling them off and throwing them across the room, “I gotta stop doing this.”

I finish the drink in my glass and sigh.

“Happy birthday, y/n.”

Chapter Text

As I pack my final box into my car, I smile to myself. I’m going off to college to meet new people and experience new things. I know it won’t be easy, but I have to try. I’ve worked my whole life towards this.

The drive two states over feels like a layer of skin shedding off, allowing myself room to grow. To become the person I was meant to be. Leaving behind friends and my mom, starting new.

I grab my first box and carry it up the stairs to my dorm. I was lucky and got one all to myself, I don’t know what I did in a past life to deserve this. No roommates, already off to a good start.

Students are weaving in and out of each other in the cramped hallway. Parents tearfully saying their goodbyes. I find my dorm and open the door.

This will be my new home.

I set my box down on the little dresser provided to me and sit on my new bed. I have a nice view of the quad and old brick buildings out the window. I can’t help but smile, the world is my oyster. It’s mine to do what I want. The possibilities are endless.

“Hey,” someone taps on the door frame, “Welcome to the third floor! I’m Ted.”

He looks kinda nerdy in a sweet way. Big glasses, dark hair, tall and lanky, his outfit looks like his mom dressed him.

“Oh, where are my manners?” I smile and stand up from my bed, holding my hand out, “I’m y/n.”

Ted firmly holds my hand and shakes it. “Y/n,” he repeats, “It’s nice to meet you. You a freshman too?”

“Is it that obvious?”

Ted chuckles, “Yeah, the look of pure joy on your face when I walked in kinda gave it away. Apparently we’ll lose that spark after the first semester.”

“Oh boy, can’t wait,” I laugh.

“Do you need help carrying boxes? I got here early this morning, so I’m all unpacked already.”

“Actually, yeah, that would be nice Ted. Thank you,” I smile.

He helps me carry the rest of my belongings upstairs from my car. We talk a bit about where we grew up, what our majors are, and our schedules. Turns out we have a few classes together. It’s always good to have a study buddy.

“And that’s the last of ‘em,” Ted places the final box on the floor, “I’ll leave you alone to unpack now. Wanna walk to class tomorrow? Maybe grab a coffee on the way?”

“Yeah that sounds good,” I smile and he turns to leave, “Ted!”

“What’s up?”

“Seriously, thank you. I swear those stairs are gonna kill me before Christmas,” I joke.

“It was no problem. I’ll see you tomorrow morning. Meet downstairs?”

I nod and wave goodbye and he leaves, closing the door behind him. With a sigh, I grab the box I labeled BED and open it to put clean sheets on my bed.

After unpacking the bare essentials for tonight and tomorrow, I crawl into bed and plug my phone in. I pull my pajama shirt up a bit and rub my belly.

“I can do this. I have to, for you.”

I lay down and pull the blanket up over me, settling in. Exhausted from the drive and carrying boxes, I quickly drift off into sleep.

~~

“I was almost worried you were ditching me,” Ted greets me outside our building, extremely chipper.

“Sorry, just forgot I wasn’t at home anymore and couldn’t remember where I put everything I unpacked last night,” I laugh before yawning, “Really slowed me down.”

He laughs heartily, “Well, c’mon, we gotta hustle to grab a coffee before our lecture.”

I struggle to keep up with him as he speed walks across campus.

“Hey Ted?” I pant.

“Yeah?”

“How tall are you? I mean, your legs are like stilts. You take one step and I have to take three,” I laugh.

“Shit, sorry y/n,” he slows down to match my pace, “And I’m 6’4”.”

Damn.

“That explains it.”

We order coffee and Ted pays, despite my protests. He agrees we’ll take turns paying. As we settle in our seats, the professor clears her throat and claps once to get started. Right on time.

Chapter Text

The past month of school has been a blur. Between lectures, homework, and hanging out with Ted, I haven’t really had a lot of time to myself. Not that I really mind, though. Keeping my mind busy helps me forget about home.

I still keep in touch with my mom, of course. I update her every now and then on how school is going and my baby’s development. She continues to pretend it doesn’t exist, which hurts. If there was any time I would desperately need my mom, it would be right now.

Thankfully, Ted and I have become really close friends, and he invited me to spend Thanksgiving with his family over the break. The last thing I need is to be the size of a hot air balloon and risk Schlatt seeing me. That would open a whole can of worms I’m just not ready to deal with. One day I’ll have to, I know. Just not right now.

As I’m working on my calculus homework, my phone vibrates on my bed next to me. I pick it up and see a text from Ted.

“Hey my roommates are being really really loud, can I come work at your dorm?”

“Yeah dude of course,” I reply and put my phone back down.

I stand up and stretch my back before tugging on an oversized hoodie and unlocking the door. Right on cue, Ted knocks and I open it.

“Red Bull?” I smile.

“Please, thank you,” he walks in and sets his things on my bed.

I grab a can from my mini fridge and hand it to him, sitting next to him on the bed. We work quietly together for about an hour before he clears his throat.

“Can you help me with this? I don’t know what I keep doing wrong,” Ted leans his notebook to the side, showing me his geometry homework.

I take the notebook from his lap and move it to mine, looking at his work. He scoots closer to me so he can watch.

“You forgot the exponents again,” I softly laugh, “You always forget them.”

“Fuck. Yeah you’re right. Guess that’s why you’re in calculus and I’m still in geometry,” he takes his notebook back.

“Don’t worry, dude, that’s why we have tutors and study groups. Math sucks, not everyone gets it,” I reassure him.

“Who needs study groups when I have you?” he laughs.

I softly smile and resume my homework.

“Y’know… you’re really smart, y/n. I mean you really get this shit,” he turns a bit to face me.

“Thanks, Ted. You’re smart too, you just need a little practice.”

He gently grabs my chin, “Hey,” he says softly.

I turn my face with his touch and he slowly leans in and kisses me.

What??

My eyes open wide and I push his chest, breaking the kiss. I wipe my mouth and scoot away from him.

“I- I’m sorry, y/n! I just thought- I didn’t-“

“Ted, it’s okay,” I say calmly.

“I wasn’t trying to like force you or anything, I would never! I thought we were getting along so great-“ he rambles on.

I rub his arm, “It’s okay, I promise. I’m not upset. You didn’t do anything wrong. I’m just not looking for a relationship right now, being pregnant and all-“

“Pregnant??” Ted cuts me off, “You’re pregnant??”

I look down at my stomach and then back up at him, “Uhh yeah, did you think I was just fat?”

“Of course I did,” his face pales, “Which is totally cool, by the way. I mean, you’re still hot- Fuck! I mean, you’re attractive even though you’re fat. God damn it! You’re not fat, but if you were that would be cool- Oh Jesus, can we just start over?”

I laugh heartily, probably the hardest I’ve laughed in a long time.

“Oh my god, you should see the look on your face!” I hold my chest, trying to catch my breath, “Ted, no more Red Bull, buddy.”

He laughs with me, “Fuck off, I was living every man’s worst nightmare just then. You might as well have asked me if a dress made you look fat.”

I smile, wiping tears from my face, “You’re ridiculous!”

The laughter slowly dies down before he asks, “Are you really pregnant?”

I lift my hoodie up to show my round belly, “I’m due in a couple months. Did you really think this was just fat?”

“Well, you’re always wearing bulky clothing, I just assumed. Pregnant in college is… not common,” he says as delicately as possible, trying not to hurt my feelings.

I nod, “You’re right.”

“So… when you come to my house for Thanksgiving…?”

“I’m still invited?” I joke.

“Of course, idiot,” Ted rolls his eyes, “When you come over, are you gonna be like… due?”

“Not until December. I’ll probably deliver over Christmas break,” I reassure him.

“Cool, cool,” he trails off. I can tell he has more questions.

“Go ahead, spit ‘em out. Ask away.”

He sighs in relief, “Okay ummm,” he taps his chin, “Are you having a girl or a boy?”

We spend the rest of the evening talking. He asks questions and I answer as honestly as possible. I don’t really talk about the father, and Ted doesn’t press me, sensing it’s a sensitive subject. I look at the clock on the wall and see it’s midnight.

I yawn and stretch my arms, “Alright, man. This has been fun and all, but I gotta get to bed. Got a test in the morning.”

Ted smiles and yawns too, “Yeah, I’m exhausted.” He stands from my bed and organizes his things.

I give him a hug, burying my face in his chest, “Thank you, Ted, for understanding.”

He wraps his arms around me, “Of course, y/n, you’re my friend.”

I smile and nod. Friends. Thank god. I don’t think I could handle even the rest of the semester without him.

“Besides,” he pulls away with a smirk, “Who else is gonna help me pass geometry?”

“Fuck off,” I laugh.

He grabs his things and opens the door before turning back, “You’re not alone, y/n. You got me.”

I smile as he steps outside and closes the door behind him.

Chapter Text

There’s no hiding my stomach now. I could buy the biggest hoodie on the planet and you’d still see me sticking out like a blimp. I’m due in about a month. Luckily, Ted got us jobs at the student book store on campus, but recently he’s been pushing me to quit.

“I’m serious, y/n, you gotta get off your feet!”

I sigh while I stock the shelves, “Ted, I need the money. I’ll get off my feet and rest at the very last minute. If it gets unbearable, I won’t hesitate to quit.”

“I swear, that kid is gonna be born with a work ethic unlike any other baby.”

I chuckle and roll my eyes.

“Hey, wanna see something really cool?”

Ted’s face lights up, “Yeah, of course.”

I pull out my phone and step closer to him, showing him the most recent ultrasound I got.

“Oh wow, y/n. I can’t believe that is in there,” he points at my stomach.

I smile, “I know, right? It’s getting so big.”

“Which would you prefer, a girl or a boy? I know, I know, you just want it healthy, but c’mon… I’m sure you have some preference or idea in your head,” Ted leans against the shelves.

I look down at the picture on my phone, “Yeah, of course healthy is my main priority. But… when I have dreams about the future, it’s a girl,” I smile and rub my stomach.

Ted smiles softly, “I think it’s a boy.”

“Oh, and you’re always right about everything,” I say sarcastically.

“My mom will be able to tell when we go over for Thanksgiving, you’ll see. She’ll say I’m right,” he pushes off the shelf and keeps stocking, smiling smugly.

“Do I need to bring anything? I’d be more than happy to. Maybe a pie or-“

“No, no, just bring yourself.”

“You sure? Well, what should I wear? I know some families dress nice and some dress more casual.”

“You wear whatever is comfortable. Mom already knows you’re pregnant, no one is expecting you to be in your Sunday best, y/n.”

I smile and gently punch his arm, “Thanks, Teddy.”

“Of course- oh, we got a customer!” Ted speed walks to the front of the small store, greeting our fellow student.

I just stand there, watching him and smiling like an idiot. Feeling so lucky and undeserving of such a sweet, kind friend. I wish I could’ve given him what he wanted. Maybe in the future, down the line, someday. For now, friendship is the most I can offer him. He was so understanding of my situation. Not even my own mother who I’ve known all my life was understanding or supportive.

Ted finishes ringing the customer up and bounces back over to me. He starts gathering the packing supplies left on the floor from our stocking.

“So, I was thinking,” he says.

“Uh oh. Y’know I warned you about that,” I smirk.

“Oh, shut up!” Ted laughs, “I was thinking we could get an apartment together off-campus next year.”

I freeze and turn to him, “You- Um- What?”

He sees my expression and starts explaining, “Well, that way you wouldn’t be alone with the baby! I mean, like, we can take turns watching it and studying and working, so you wouldn’t be over burdened or anything.”

He looks nervous, like he might’ve said the wrong thing and he’s waiting for my reaction.

“I’ll think about it, Ted,” I nod reassuringly, “That’s all I can promise is that I’ll think about it.”

“Okay,” Ted nods, “Okay.”

“Okay.”

His expression is a little hurt as he finishes up the shelf and walks away, going into the back room. I can’t help but frown, I didn’t mean to hurt his feelings. I gave him the best answer I could right now. I didn’t say no and shut down the idea immediately. I said I’d think about it.

“Hey,” I poke my head into the back room. Ted’s sorting boxes on the taller shelves, facing away from me.

“Please don’t be upset, Teddy. I have a lot on my plate right now. I can’t make a rash decision like this.”

“I know,” Ted sighs, “I’m sorry, I’m not upset.”

“Can you at least look at me?” I ask, softly.

He climbs down off the step stool and steps towards me, wrapping me in a warm hug.

“I’m sorry. Of course you have to think about it, y/n. I don’t know why I was expecting an answer right away. I’m not upset, I promise.”

As I nuzzle my face into his chest, my eyes start tearing up, “Look, you asshole. You made a pregnant lady cry,” I giggle.

I feel a laugh rumble through his chest, “Fuck off, that guilt shit doesn’t work on me.”

We laugh and I wipe my face when I step back from him.

“Y’know, you lose hotness points when you cry.”

“Shut up,” I gently shove him, “Get your ass back out on the floor or I’m telling the manager.”

“Aye aye, captain,” Ted stands up straight and salutes me before leaving the back room.

I’m so lucky to have him.

Chapter Text

Take a deep breath, y/n.

Gotta make a good impression.

I quickly go over my checklist of things I need. Keys, purse, overnight bag.

Ted knocks on my door as I check my outfit in the mirror again. Jeans and a comfy knit sweater. Just on the border between casual and nice.

“Good morning,” I greet him as I open the door.

“Morning,” he wraps one arm around my shoulders, his other holding his overnight bag.

He’s dressed similarly to me, a nice sweater and slacks.

“You ready?”

I nod, “Just gotta grab my bag-“

“No, no. Let me,” he lets himself in and picks my bag up off the bed.

The drive to his house is quicker than I expected. He tells me about all his family members that will be there and which side dishes are his mom’s specialties.

“…But don’t try my aunt’s stuffing. She puts tuna in it for some fucking reason,” he shudders.

I giggle, “Sounds like I’m in for quite an evening.”

“You’re gonna love it.”

When we pull up, the front door opens and three little kids run up to Ted, screaming his name gleefully.

“Uncle Teddy, we missed you!” they wrap their arms around his legs.

I smile as he laughs and hugs them back, “I missed you guys too. Hey guys, say hi to my friend, y/n. But be careful with her!”

They come over to me and give me much gentler hugs than they gave Ted. One of them, a little girl I’d have to guess is around 5, puts her hand on my stomach, “My mommy says there’s a baby in here.”

I laugh and nod.

“That’s right, sweetness,” Ted scoops her up onto his hip and kisses her cheek, “Speaking of your mommy, where is she?”

He sets her down and the kids run inside. Ted and I follow.

“There’s my little brother!” I hear before she embraces him, “Ooh I missed you! How’s school?”

“It’s good, Em,” he pulls away from her, “I want you to meet my friend, y/n. Y/n, this is my big sister, Emily.”

I hold out my hand, “It’s so nice to meet-“

“Nuh uh. We do hugs in this family,” she smiles warmly and pulls me in for a hug before kissing my cheek, “It’s so nice to meet you too. And you already met the rugrats. I’m sure I’ll chase down my husband at some point tonight and introduce you two, but I’ll let y’all go and meet everyone else!”

“Okay,” I smile back at her before she turns and chases her kids.

I’m quickly dragged into the madness. There’s more kids running around, men yelling at football in the living room, people grilling outside. I meet cousins and uncles and grandparents. Each giving a warmer hug than the last. We finally step into the chaos that is the kitchen.

“Mom?”

“There she is!” a woman weaves through the people and gives me the best hug of all, “You must be y/n! I’m Ted’s mom, you can call me Lisa.”

“It’s so nice to meet you, Lisa. I can’t thank you enough for having me.”

“Oh hush, I make sure everyone is fed this time of year, the more the merrier,” she pulls back with a smile before looking at my stomach, “Oh, and you are just glowing, dear! Look at you!” She holds my hands.

“Uh yeah, I’m here too, mom,” Ted jokes from behind me.

She lets go of my hands and hugs her son, “Hey Teddy, I’ve missed you.”

“Missed you too, mom.”

“Well, you two go sit down somewhere. Ted, you know how it goes, when dinner is ready I’ll blow the air horn. There’s snacks and drinks, so don’t go hungry, y/n,” she winks at me.

“Actually, could I help at all?”

“Oh, don’t be silly, dear. You’re a guest, go get off your feet.”

“What would really help is if I could feel useful, please,” I beg her with my eyes.

I know I’m pregnant, but I’m kind of getting tired of being treated like I’ll break if I stand or walk too much.

She seems to read my mind and nods, “Ted, go do man stuff with your father. Y/n, come with me, I’ll teach you the secret to my green bean casserole.”

A few hours later, dinner is done, and it looks amazing. I’m salivating just looking at the massive spread. Guess I worked up quite an appetite.

“You’re gonna wanna cover your ears, y/n.”

I do as Lisa says before she raises an air horn above her head and presses the top a few times, “DINNER!”

I laugh and uncover my ears, “I thought you guys were joking about the air horn!”

She laughs too, “Sorry!”

I watch as everyone gets in a line in the kitchen and is handed a paper plate. Ted gently pulls my arm so I’m standing next to him.

“We don’t eat at the table?” I whisper to him.

“We used to, but the family is so big now. Everyone just eats where they want. But you and I will probably sit at the table with my mom.”

I nod and watch as the people in front of us almost move like a buffet line. Stopping at each tray and dish to grab a little bit of everything. Ted and I do the same before sitting at the dining room table.

We share pleasant conversation with his family, laughing and stuffing our faces. This is the kind of holiday I’ve always wanted. Sure, I love when it’s just my mom and I and we order a pizza in our sweatpants for Thanksgiving. But I’ve always wanted a big, loud family. As the table clears to stretch their legs and digest, I feel a tear fall down my cheek.

“Hey,” Ted rubs my arm, “What’s wrong?”

I smile with tears in my eyes and wave my hand, “Nothing, sorry. Stupid hormones.”

Ted looks at me knowingly while I wipe my face with my napkin, but doesn’t press me about it.

After pie, I feel like I might burst. This has to be the biggest meal I’ve ever had. At least I’m not the only one rubbing my stomach as I walk around. I find Ted talking to his brother in law and gently tug him to the side.

“I’m getting pretty tired, where am I gonna sleep tonight?”

“Oh wait, wait! Just one more minute, we gotta ask my mom something,” he smirks and leads me back to the kitchen.

“Mom, do you think y/n is having a boy or a girl? She thinks it’s a girl, I said it’s a boy.”

Lisa stops washing dishes and looks me over from different angles, even circling me, “This is your first baby?”

“Mmhmm.”

“Hmmmm… and were you on top or on bottom?”

“Mom!!” Ted blushes with wide eyes.

Lisa and I laugh at his reaction, “I’m just kidding,” she puts her hands on my stomach for a moment, “It’s a boy.”

“Told you!”

“You guys are crazy, you can’t know just from looking at me,” I chuckle.

“Trust me, I know,” she smirks, “You’re having a boy, y/n.”

I’ll believe it when I see it.

After saying goodnight to everyone, Ted takes me up to his childhood bedroom where he’s brought up our things.

“I can sleep on the floor, of course.”

“No, don’t be ridiculous. We’re going Black Friday shopping and you still have to drive us back tomorrow, I don’t want you having a sore back. It’s fine.”

“You sure?”

“It’s fine, Ted.”

I gather my things for bed and go into the bathroom in the hall, changing and brushing my teeth. When I return, Ted is also in his pajamas.

“I’m gonna go brush my teeth,” he pats the bed, “Make yourself comfortable. And I can get more pillows if you need.”

“Will you stop treating me like I’m made of glass?” I laugh softly.

“When you stop carrying precious cargo,” he walks past me, out of the room.

I settle into the queen-sized bed and lay on my side. After a minute, Ted comes back and turns the light off. I feel the mattress shift as he climbs in behind me. He scoots himself against my back and drapes his arm over my stomach, pulling me close.

“Is this okay?”

“Mmhmm,” I tiredly mumble.

“Did you have a nice Thanksgiving, y/n?”

“Mmhmm.”

“I’m glad. Thank you for coming. Goodnight,” he kisses the back of my head.

“Goodnight.”

As I close my eyes, my body relaxes into Ted’s embrace. He’s warm and soft behind me, holding me tight. But… I wish it was Schlatt.

I don’t have feelings for him, we barely know each other, but I can’t help the feeling that I should be in his arms instead. It’s his baby, he should be here.

I’m so confused.

I drift off to sleep and dream of a little boy this time, instead of a little girl.

Black Friday shopping goes as I expected. Pushy, angry people, trying to get the best deals. Ted and I manage to leave Target with some adorable clothes and essentials like diapers and a crib.

His mother sends us home with enough leftovers to feed an army. She whispers in her son’s ear, “Take care of her.”

I don’t think she meant for me to hear it, but I did.

When we get back to campus, Ted helps me bring my stuff up to my dorm.

“Thanks again, Teddy. I had a really nice Thanksgiving,” I wrap my arms around him.

He hugs me back, “Of course, y/n. My mom loved you, you’re welcome back anytime.”

Ted leaves and I cram the leftovers in my mini fridge.

At least I’ll be fed for a month.

Chapter Text

Schlatt’s POV

The past few months… Jesus.

I feel like I’ve started to fall apart a bit.

What makes y/n so special? She’s just a dumb kid.

Well, she did just turn 18… so I guess technically she’s not a kid anymore and… no one has let me piss on them before, that was pretty hot. I can check that off my list.

Maybe it’s how green she is? How eager she is to please? I’m obviously not the right guy for her, but she keeps coming back, like a stray cat.

She’s away at college now, though. I’m sure she’s fucked her way through the whole damn dorm building by now. I’m probably a distant memory in y/n’s mind. I was just her first, but definitely not her last, I’m not stupid.

I need to move the fuck on, I barely know her. We just fucked twice…

And I jerked off with her panties.

Shut up, Schlatt.

I don’t know what’s wrong with me. Maybe I’m just getting older.

I went out to a bar on my birthday and tried to hit on a woman, in pursuit of some birthday pussy. She laughed at me, turned me down flat.

“More like ‘father’ than ‘daddy’,” she giggled to her friends as they walked away.

What the fuck?

I’m 32, I’m not father old.

I did manage to bring a girl home one night. She smelled like the bar I picked her up in. I fucked her quick and rough just to get it over with.

The noises she made were obnoxious, and she faked an orgasm. “Oh yeah baby, right there!” “You’re fucking me so good!” Nothing like my gi- I mean y/n. Anyway, I had to get that broad out of there. You’re not sleeping in my bed smelling like that.

But still, it didn’t fill the hole. And I wish I fucking knew why there’s even a hole to fill.

Usually, I spend Thanksgiving alone in my apartment, but this year, I didn’t want to be by myself. I thought maybe family would fill the hole.

So that’s how I ended up at my parents’ house tonight. My mother is thrilled, of course. I know I don’t come around as often as I should. My sister lectured me enough about that upon my arrival.

“John, when are you gonna find a nice girl and settle down?”

I choke on my food, “Mom, seriously?”

“I’m just saying, I think it would be good for you,” she shrugs across the table from me, “I think it’s about time, you’re not getting any younger.”

“Jesus Christ,” I take a large swig of my wine.

“Your mother’s right.”

“Oh, not you too, dad,” I groan.

They both hold their hands up in surrender and we keep eating.

After dinner and pie, my older brother and his wife knock on the door. My mom lets them in and greets them with hugs and kisses.

“Sorry, mom, but we had to show our faces at Katie’s family’s house too.”

“No, I totally understand! Now, where’s my grandbaby?” My mother makes grabby hands.

Oh, right. The baby.

My sister in law takes turns passing the kid to each of my parents and then my sister. They all shuffle back into the kitchen to feed my brother and I turn to follow.

“John?”

I turn around to face Katie, “Yeah?”

“You wanna meet your niece?” she smiles warmly, extending the little thing to me.

I react like she’s holding something radioactive towards me, taking a step back.

“She doesn’t bite.”

I hesitantly extend my arms and take her into my hands, holding her away from my body, “Sorry, I don’t uhh...”

Katie giggles, “Here, hold her to your chest, and make sure you support her head.”

The baby is held more securely to my chest, and instinctively I start bouncing on my heels a little bit to rock her.

“She’s so tiny,” I look at her big blue eyes.

“Wow, look at you, you’re a natural,” she says softly.

That pushes some button in me that I didn’t know was there. I don’t like it.

I gently hand her back to Katie and run my fingers through my hair, “Well, uhh.. thanks. I’m just gonna go, uhh… Will you just tell my brother to come find me when he’s done eating?”

“Sure, but-“

I turn around and go out to the garage where I know my dad keeps the fridge stocked with beer. I sit on the back porch and crack one open, lighting a cigarette while I wait for my brother.

“Hey, John- oh…”

I turn around to face my brother and he’s looking at all the beer cans now littering the porch and the ashtray filled to the brim.

“So it’s gonna be one of those talks,” he sits across from me.

“Just… please shut up and listen.”

I tell him the whole story. About y/n and her mom and the sex and the guilt and the hole and the hookup… and now this new feeling I just got.

“Wait… so you were gonna fuck her to substitute for the rent? You know that’s prostitution, right? Underage prostitution, John!”

“Oh, fuck off! That was never on the table for me. I just wanted to fuck her. I was gonna let them stay anyway, it’s just funny to watch ‘em squirm for a minute.”

“You’re a fucking asshole, who does that?”

“That is so not the point of the story, dude.”

“Alright, alright,” he nods and sips his beer.

“So, what am I supposed to do??”

“Well, after having sex with her just the one time, you couldn’t get her off your mind, right? That sounds like Katie and I.”

“Oh, don’t even go there, I am not in love with y/n. It’s just infatuation or something, I don’t even know her.”

My brother shakes his head and chuckles, “But from what you told me you already know she’s cute and sweet and smart and obviously loyal. Look at what she did for her mom, I’m sure that wasn’t an easy thing to do. And you certainly weren’t nice to her, but when she was upset and crying, she came to you. Something about you makes her feel safe.”

“Fucking whatever, you’re no help at all,” I cross my arms over my chest, “I don’t even know why I told you all this shit.”

“You miss her, how can you be so blind??”

“Just shut up-“

“No, you shut up and listen for once. Stop being such a douche!”

That shuts me up.

“You obviously like y/n. I’ve seen the way you act around other women, you’re an asshole, you don’t care at all. But even when you’re trying to push her away, you still thought about y/n on her graduation day. You brought a woman home to hookup and you were comparing her to y/n the whole time.”

I sigh, hating that he’s kind of making a good argument.

“Yeah but, that still doesn’t explain why! Why am I being like this? I know I’m too old for her and, and, and we barely know each other! There’s just no way-”

“No way what? No way you can open your heart just a little and let someone in? No way that this is just how the universe likes to fuck with us? I know you just turned 32, but fucking grow up, John. You can make it work if you wanted to and you know it.”

I sit across from my brother, arms crossed and chest heaving.

“And let’s not even mention that little feeling in your belly when you held your niece,” he smirks, “You’re a goner.”

“Fuck you,” I spit.

“I bet y/n will be home for Christmas. Get her something small,” he stands up and heads for the patio door, “You’d be surprised what could come from a simple ‘Hey’.”

I flip him off as he steps inside. He might be older than me, but what the fuck does he know? Fucking dumbass.

I don’t even know what I’d get her for Christmas.

Chapter Text

“Hey, mama,” I smile to the camera.

“Hi, honey,” she waves at me.

“I’m so glad you finally decided to try FaceTime, I missed your smile.”

“Awww, I miss yours too, baby.”

“How was your Thanksgiving?”

She sighs, “It was lonely here without you, of course, but I know you have new friends you probably wanted to spend it with.”

“Yeah, I have this great friend, Ted. He invited me to his family’s Thanksgiving, they were so sweet.”

“That’s great, y/n, I’m really happy to hear that,” she smiles genuinely, “I know you always wanted a big family and it was just us. But now…” she takes a deep breath, “Now you’re starting one of your own, huh?”

My eyes tear up, “I miss you, mom. I miss you so much.”

“Oh, don’t you dare cry or you’re gonna make me cry,” she points at the camera and laughs.

I laugh and wipe my face, “Alright, you’re right, sorry. Can I come over for Christmas break?”

“Of course you can, y/n! What kind of silly question is that?? I might not have agreed with your recent decisions, but you’re still my daughter and I love you with my whole heart. Please come home for Christmas.”

I bite my lip and nod, trying not to let anymore tears spill, “I love you. Can I invite Ted? I promise you would really like him-“

“Of course! The more the merrier! Maybe this year I’ll actually get help with the decorations,” she jokes and rolls her eyes.

“I’ll make sure he’s Santa’s little helper,” I giggle and she does too, “Alright, mama, I love you. I miss you. I’ll let you know what Ted says. And I’ll see you when finals are over.”

“Okay, baby, you just study real hard for your finals. And easy on the caffeine! It’s not good for the baby.”

Huh??

This is the first time she’s even acknowledged my baby, let alone said anything to suggest she cares about it.

“You still don’t know the gender?”

I stutter a bit, “I- um- I don’t- uh no, mom, I don’t know, I still want it to be a surprise.”

She nods, “And you’re taking your prenatals?”

I blink a few times.

Who is this and what have they done with my mom?

“Of course, mama. I’m doing everything I’m supposed to.”

“Good girl. You’re due kinda any day now, right?”

I nod, “That’s right, probably over the break.”

She was actually listening to me all those phone calls when I thought she was just ignoring me.

“Okay good. You just bring my grandkid here, that’s all I need for Christmas.”

Oh great, here go my eyes again.

“I promise, mama. Alright I love you, I gotta get going.”

“I love you too, baby. You have a goodnight.”

We hang up and I drop my phone on my bed, crying happy tears and rubbing my belly.

“She loves you too.”

~~

The next day, on our way to our first final, I grab Ted’s hand. Hard.

“Jesus fuck!”

“Whoa, y/n are you okay??”

“I… I’m fine, Ted. She just kicked me really hard,” I wince and rub my side, “Just don’t let go of me.”

“I guess he wants out already,” Ted smirks, “Don’t worry, I’ve got you.”

I stand up straighter and keep walking, holding Ted’s hand like I may fall. I seriously don’t know what I would do without him.

“Would you uh… would you wanna come to my apartment for Christmas break? I already asked my mom-“

“Oh my god, I’d love to!”

“Really? You don’t wanna ask your parents first?”

“No, they loved you, y/n,” he squeezes my hand reassuringly, “They’d be thrilled to know I’ll be in such good hands. And I get to meet your mom too! It’ll be awesome.”

I smile at the ground as we step into the big building, “My mom said only if you’ll help her with decorating.”

“You’re kidding. I love Christmas! I always help my mom every year. This is gonna be amazing.”

“You’re such a weirdo,” I laugh and shake my head as he helps me take my seat.

~~

Three finals down, three to go.

One more week, and I get to go home. It’s getting cold here on campus, but my weather app is telling me it’s already snowing back home. Sounds like the makings of a perfect Christmas.

But, going home means seeing Schlatt.

And seeing Schlatt means I have to tell him.

I don’t know how he’s going to react, and frankly, I’m terrified to find out.

“Fuck!” I grab my side again, “Stop kicking me! You’ll get out soon enough, just wait until finals are over.”

A little asshole already, just like her father.

Chapter Text

I rub my cold hands together as Ted loads up his truck with our bags and Christmas gifts. For the next two weeks, we’ll be staying with my mom. I’m so excited to be home and celebrate the holiday with Ted. It won’t be as big or busy as Thanksgiving at his house, but maybe that’s for the best.

With these crazy kicks I’ve been feeling lately, I don’t think I’m really in the mood to smile and hug a bunch of people. And I am starting to get to the point where I can’t stand or walk for too long. Not that I’d ever tell Ted. Can’t let him get too smug.

“Ready?” Ted smiles at me from the driver’s seat.

“Ready.”

The drive home from campus takes about five hours. Halfway through, Ted and I pull over to stretch our legs and get gas and snacks. We decide to switch, with me driving his truck the rest of the way.

As I pull up to my building, my heart flutters. Home. Ted carries our things upstairs as I lead the way to my apartment. I never noticed the hallway has a certain smell, it’s comforting. I inhale it in gulps so I never forget.

I unlock the door and step inside, “Mom? We’re here!” I stand aside and let Ted in. He sets down our things and shivers, rubbing his hands on his shoulders.

“Y/n! Sweetie!” my mom charges at me from the kitchen and wraps me in a warm embrace.

“Hi mom,” I chuckle as we spin a bit.

“God, look at you,” she grabs my face with a smile before gently holding my stomach, “You are just glowing! You’ve gotten so big!”

“Thanks, mama,” I blush, turning to the side, “Oh, this is my friend, Ted.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you,” Ted holds his arms out for a hug.

My mom reciprocates, and with her face in his chest she laughs, “You’re a big fucker, aren’t you?”

Ted and I laugh too. I nervously look up at him, to make sure he didn’t take offense. My mom means well, but she can be a bit… It’s just hard to tell if she’s joking or being mean when you first meet her.

“Just tall enough to slam dunk you into the hoop outside,” they let go of each other.

“Good, you’ve got a sense of humor! I’ll use you to put the star on top of the tree,” she smiles up at him.

“That’s literally my favorite thing to do.”

I watch as my mom wraps an arm around Ted’s waist and leads him into the kitchen, going on and on about all the fun they’re gonna have. I stand in the doorframe of the kitchen with my arms crossed. My mom sits Ted down at the table and starts a pot of coffee before they go through my mom’s cookie recipes.

“Oh, and then if you’re interested, we could even do a gingerbread house.”

“Of course I’m interested!”

I smell the coffee brewing, and the apartment is full of love already. I get the same warm feeling in my chest that I got at Ted’s house. Family. What I’ve always wanted. What I’ve always needed.

Before I start crying again, I better take a walk.

“I’m going for a walk, guys,” I tug my jacket on.

“Okay,” they say at the same time, paying me no mind. They’re totally immersed in the festive spirit. I haven’t seen my mom this excited about Christmas in a long time. It’s sweet, seeing her like a kid again.

I pull my jacket tight as I carefully waddle down the stairs and into the little courtyard where I sat and did my homework months ago.

Admiring plants I never noticed before and seeing some new ones, I feel something cold and wet hit my nose.

I look up and see snow start to fall. Looking around to make sure I’m alone, I decide fuck it.

As if I’m in a Hallmark movie, I twirl around with my arms out, smiling like a dork. This Christmas is gonna be absolutely perfect and- when did the earth get so tilted?

Oh shit.

I stop twirling and feel myself stumbling back and forth before I completely lose my balance and fall backwards.

But before I feel the hard ground, something stops me.

I open my eyes and see Schlatt, “Hey,” he pants.

“Hi,” I smile.

“You okay?”

I nod, “Did you run over here?”

Schlatt nods too, still trying to catch his breath. I giggle and he stands me up. Adjusting my jacket, I look up at him and his eyes are wide and glued to my stomach.

Oh fuck… right.

“You- what- but how- I mean- is it-“

I just softly smile and nod, which shuts him up, “Yeah.” I can see him doing the math in his head.

“Your first time?”

Again, I nod, “This wasn’t how I wanted to tell you, Schlatt.”

I cringe a little, waiting for the explosion, but it never comes.

Instead, a wide smile spreads across his face and he pulls me in for a hug, kissing my forehead. I hug him back, missing his warmth.

“I’m so happy, y/n.”

“What? Really?”

He nods against the top of my head, “I couldn’t have asked for a better Christmas, thank you so much,” he reaches down between us, his hand hovering over my stomach-

“Y/n?”

Schlatt slowly releases me, “Who’s that?”

Ted pops out from around the corner, looking for me, “Your mom wanted me to make sure you have your scarf- Oh, hello.”

“Schlatt, this is my friend, Ted. He’s been helping me out this semester and he’s spending Christmas with us. Ted, this is our landlord, Schlatt.”

They exchange “Nice to meet you”s, but they don’t sound genuine, and they don’t shake hands. As a matter of fact, it’s almost like they’re trying to avoid eye contact. A cold gust of wind blows by and I shiver. Ted twirls my scarf around my neck.

“I should get back inside. Schlatt, we’ll catch up later, okay?”

He just nods, his smile from only moments ago has faded away. Ted wraps his arm around my shoulders to keep me warm and helps me back upstairs.

“He seems… nice,” Ted mumbles.

“He has his moments,” I smile at the floor and rub my stomach.

“If you say so.”

Chapter Text

Schlatt’s POV

“He’s been helping me this semester.”

What the fuck does that even mean?

Has he been fucking her? Studying with her? Taking her to doctor’s appointments?

All the things she should’ve been doing with me?

No… If they were dating, she would’ve said “this is my boyfriend” instead of “this is my friend”.

Right?

Then why the fuck did he wrap his arm around her?

And who brings a “friend” home for Christmas?

She’s my girl, it’s supposed to be me spending time with her. I’ve been waiting months for her to come home.

I light another cigarette and lean back into my couch, rubbing my forehead.

She’s not my girl, not yet.

But she is fucking pregnant.

With my kid.

And she didn’t tell me.

Why the fuck didn’t she tell me??

She’s got a real issue of not telling me vital information until after the fact. What’s with that? Do I have a sign on my forehead that says “Don’t tell me shit”?

Granted, I probably would’ve reacted negatively if I hadn’t met my niece a few weeks ago. But this morning, the first thought that went through my head was just pure happiness.

When I saw her, the hole inside me was filled. When I saw her bump, that feeling inside me pulsed like a second heart.

The past few weeks, I was thinking of maybe asking her to dinner, getting to know each other and taking it slow. I’ve been planning on how to bring up my feelings from the past few months.  Maybe even fucking her again to remind her of what she’s been missing. I wasn’t expecting her to be ready to pop.

With my kid.

My kid.

Wow.

I’m gonna be a dad?

Well now I have to get her something for Christmas, right? It would be weird if I didn’t. Should it be something for her or for the baby?

The baby…

My thoughts are interrupted when my phone rings in my pocket. I groan before I dig it out and answer it, putting it up to my ear.

“Schlatt.”

“Hey, Schlatt, the garbage disposal is acting up again. Can you come take a look at it?” y/n’s mom asks through the phone.

Fucking great. Now I get to see y/n and her “friend” acting all cute. But maybe this could also be an opportunity to show y/n how strong and handy I am? 

Who am I kidding? It’s a garbage disposal, not changing a tire.

I sigh and roll my eyes, “Yeah, gimme a minute, I’ll come up.”

I hang up and take a final drag of my cigarette before extinguishing it. I grab my toolbox and head up to her apartment, letting myself in. I don’t see anyone but y/n’s mom.

“Thanks for coming so soon, Schlatt. Ted and I wanna bake and this damn thing is making that noise again. I’ll bring you some cookies later as a thank you.”

“Where are the ki- y/n and Ted?”

“I realized we were out of some stuff for the baking, so they agreed to pick it up for me after they finish some last-minute Christmas shopping.”

I don’t respond and make my way into the kitchen. There’s a bunch of mugs on the counter and some bubble wrap.

“You guys planning to have a million people over for coffee or something?” I say as I lay on my back under the garbage disposal, getting comfortable.

“Oh no, all those mugs are y/n’s. I don’t know why, but her whole life she’s loved quirky mugs. She wants to take them with her back to campus after the break, so I was just wrapping them up for her. I’ll be glad to have my cabinet space back, that’s for damn sure-” she rambles on, but I stop listening.

That’s perfect.

“I bet y/n will be home for Christmas. Get her something small.”

You are a fucking genius, my brother, I’m sorry I ever doubted you.

“Have you seen her since she’s been back home?”

“Huh? Uhh yeah, why?” I grunt under the sink, not really paying attention.

“I just thought you’d be a little… surprised… by her appearance.”

Understatement of the century.

“Oh yeah, I guess,” I grab my flashlight and a wrench, “Congratulations, by the way. You excited to be a grandmother?”

“I don’t know… Are you excited to be a father?”

“What?!” I sit up too fast and hit my head on the underside of the cabinet, “Fuck!” I rub my forehead and scoot out from under the sink to look at her, “W-What do you mean?”

Y/n’s mom tosses me a bag of frozen peas and looks down at me with a stern look on her face while she slams the freezer closed, “Don’t treat me like I’m fucking stupid, Schlatt.”

I hold the peas to my head and lower my gaze to my lap, ashamed, “Obviously, we didn’t mean for this to happen-“

“No shit. No one plans on becoming a teenage mom, or knocking up a teenager.”

I look up at her and nod. I deserve whatever lecture is coming to me. I knocked up her daughter, for Christ’s sake.

“You think I didn’t suspect something was up when she was gone for an hour and then you came up to say we could stay? Do you think I’m an idiot?”

“No, ma’am-”

“I could fucking strangle the both of you! Don’t you dumbasses know what a condom is??”

I flinch, ready for her to throw a skillet or rolling pin at me, because she’s not wrong or overreacting.

“Look,” she takes a deep breath, “Ultimately, you’re an adult and I can’t tell you what to do, but you need to do right by her. Whether you decide to stick around and be an active role in her and the baby’s life or ditch them, you need to make that decision now.”

“What-“

“I mean it, Schlatt. Y/n’s father took off when she was five years old. She was heartbroken. Her whole life she has been chasing the family she never had. So don’t show her what a family is and then take it away from her because a year or two down the line you decide you don’t want to be a father anymore. And don’t put that baby through that, either. I’ve seen firsthand what a broken home does to a kid.”

“But I-“

“She’s fragile, she doesn’t deserve to have her heart be played with. Ted already told me he really likes y/n and wants to take care of her and the baby. Think long and hard about it, Schlatt, please.”

I sit there a moment, taking in everything she said. My chest heaves with anger at the news about Ted.

“Is the garbage disposal even fucking acting up?”

She smirks and flips the switch, it purrs like a Cadillac. I stand up and slam the cabinet, gathering my things to leave.

“Think long and hard about it!” she repeats as I step out into the hallway.

What the fuck?

I only found out I was gonna be a father a few hours ago. I haven’t even really gotten to talk to y/n about this and now her mom wants to push me to make a decision? Right now?

A decision I could’ve and should’ve had nine months to think about. Y/n had this whole time to decide what she wants, but I have to consider my whole life right now?

I leave my toolbox in my apartment and grab my wallet and cigarettes before heading out. I have a gift to buy.

Though, now I’m not exactly sure I want to.

Chapter Text

Ted’s POV

Y/n unlocks the door to her apartment and steps aside to let me in with all our bags.

“Mama, we’re back!” she closes the door behind us while I set the bags on the couch.

We shrug our jackets off and I hang mine by the door before helping y/n out of her’s and doing the same. We scuff our snowy boots off on the doormat.

“Were you guys able to find all the stuff we need?” y/n’s mom comes out of the kitchen, wiping her hands on her apron.

“Yep, and look at this cute wrapping paper I found!” she smiles wide and shows her mom as they both fawn over it.

I watch from the couch, completely enamored. Y/n is absolutely stunning in her sweater and jeans. Smiling with sparkles in her eyes about something so silly as wrapping paper. I wish she’d smile like that while talking about me. I wish she’d give me a chance. Just one shot to make her happy.

“…and we even found the coconut and walnuts you needed…”

From the moment she told me she was pregnant, I never cared that it was another guy’s baby. We were already such good friends and I liked her so much. She’s smart, funny, beautiful, has curves in all the right places, and my family adores her. I knew I was willing to do anything for her. I still am.

I can only pray she likes my Christmas gift.

“Ted?” y/n’s mom breaks my train of thought.

“Yes?” I blink a few times.

“I asked if one of you kids would mind running down to the laundry room and putting these through a cycle?” she holds up a big plastic bin labeled CHRISTMAS.

“Yeah, of course, I’d be happy to,” I stand up from the couch and take the bin from her with a smile.

“Thank you, Ted. They just stink like dust and old mothballs, they desperately need a good wash. There’s detergent in that closet by the door and a jar of quarters on the side table.”

I grab the detergent and put it on top of the bin before loading up my pocket with quarters, “I’ll be back!”

Lugging the bin downstairs, I find my way to the laundry room, there’s 2 washers, 2 dryers, and…

Schlatt.

He’s pulling his clothes out of the dryer one at a time and folding them before he puts them in a laundry basket.

Good, he’ll be out of here soon.

I don’t know what it is, but he just gives me weird vibes.

“Hey.”

“Hey,” I mumble.

I open the washer and the bin before waving the smell away from the front my face. Jesus Christ, I think ‘dust and old mothballs’ was a serious understatement. This shit smells like it hasn’t been out of this bin or washed in six Christmases.

I quickly shove them in the washer and add detergent before putting quarters in and starting it. I hop up on top of the machine and take my phone out.

Schlatt clears his throat, “So, you and y/n met at school?”

“Yeah, our dorms are on the same floor. I noticed she needed help bringing stuff up from her car, so…” I kind of trail off, not really wanting to get into small talk with him.

“She said you’ve been helping her this semester?” he keeps folding, not looking at me.

I nod before rolling my eyes and putting my phone down, “Well, my sister has three kids, so I know being pregnant is hard enough… but I imagine being pregnant and alone and in college is even harder.”

Schlatt just nods.

“I helped her get a job with me at the student bookstore and we study together. I was so happy she came to my house for Thanksgiving. Got to get her off of the campus and around some normal people for a few days, not just professors and students, y’know?”

Still, he doesn’t say anything. He just keeps folding his clothes.

Does he want me to continue? Is he even listening?

“Right now we’re working on setting up a little nursery corner in her dorm. We got her a crib and some other essentials so far on Black Friday, but she’s gonna get lots of hand-me-downs from my sister, so she’s not too worried. We’ve even talked a little bit about getting an apartment together off-campus next year, so she won’t be alone with the baby.”

I watch as Schlatt squeezes a shirt in his fists, “How nice of you.”

What the fuck?

I knew my vibes were right about him.

Y/n’s mom was right too, this dude has serious anger issues. I mean, why does he care so much about y/n and I moving in together? What kind of reaction was that? So weird for a landlord. And why was he hugging her earlier when I went to find her?

Wait…

I watch him fold for a few more moments.

“It’s you, isn’t it?”

“Is what me?” Schlatt grumbles.

“You’re the father,” he freezes, “Y/n wouldn’t tell me who it was, and I didn’t want to push her, but… it’s you.”

Schlatt just takes the rest of his clothes from the dryer and shoves them in the laundry basket, getting them all wrinkled, “Nice meeting you, Fred.”

“It’s Ted.”

“Whatever,” and he’s gone.

That’s my competition? That asshole??

How the hell did that even happen? On what planet does y/n get in the same bed with that guy? She’s a sweet angel. He smells like a fucking ashtray and his social skills are heinous. No wonder she didn’t wanna tell me about him.

The washer buzzes and I move the stuff to the dryer. I put more quarters in and start the machine, leaning up against it and crossing my arms.

~~

“I’m back!”

“Thank you! I haven’t been able to use these in years because someone doesn’t ever wanna help with the decorating,” she jokingly glares at y/n on the couch.

Y/n just smirks and giggles before sipping her cocoa.

“You see what I have to deal with, Ted?” her mom laughs and I join.

Grabbing the table runner from the bin, I turn and walk towards the kitchen, “Your landlord was down in the laundry room. Weird guy.”

Y/n perks up at the mention of him as I fan out the runner over the table.

So I was right.

Neither of them have poker faces.

“He barely talked to me, but kept asking about you, y/n.”

“What did he ask?” she sits up straighter on the couch.

Damn. This hurts.

Not just because I really like y/n, but because we’re supposed to be best friends. She should’ve told me before we got here, or even tell me now! I bet she’ll just leave me with her mom all break to go spend time with Schlatt.

What am I even doing here? I should be with my family, not trying to get y/n to like me when she’s already made it clear we’ll only ever be friends. I feel like a damn fool.

~~

Y/n and her mom make us a delicious dinner while I sit and watch them joking with each other. We basically inhale it and y/n leans back in her chair and rubs her stomach.

“I think that’s the best chili we’ve ever made, mom.”

Her mom nods, “Did you like it, Ted?”

For dramatic and comedic effect, I hold my bowl upside down over my head and not a drop falls out of it. I practically licked it clean.

“That was the best chili I’ve ever had in my life,” I quickly glance at y/n, “Don’t tell my mom I said that.”

After cleaning up, the three of us bake muffins for breakfast tomorrow morning and one of the many cookie recipes we have planned. About hallway through, y/n bails and watches a Christmas movie bundled up on the couch in some festive pajamas.

“Go take her some of these and some milk, she loves when they’re warm,” y/n’s mom nudges my side and hands me a plate with a few cookies.

I carefully sit next to y/n and hand her the plate, “They’re nice and warm.”

She smiles at me, snuggling into my side before taking them and the glass of milk, “You’re nice and warm.”

My heart flutters. I wrap an arm around her shoulders and hold her close.

The movie concludes and as the credits roll I look down at her. She’s snoring, barely audible. I brush a strand of hair from her face.

“You two look so cute,” y/n’s mom whispers as she takes a picture on her phone.

“Can you send me that?”

I give her my number and after she sends me the picture I immediately make it my wallpaper. It really is a cute picture.

“Can you help her to bed, Ted?”

With a nod, I give her the gentlest nudge, “Y/n… gotta wake up, hun… gotta get you to bed.”

She whines and peeks her eyes open. I help her stand up and walk to her old bedroom, tucking her in.

“Stay,” she mumbles.

“No, I should probably stay on the couch.”

She pouts up at me, “Please, Teddy.”

Pure evil. She knows I can’t say no to her or that face.

“Alright, let me get ready for bed.”

I change into my pajamas and brush my teeth before coming back to her, she’s in a cute little bundle under the blanket. As I climb in next to her, she slowly turns her body around and nuzzles her head on my chest. I wrap my arm around her again and softly rub her belly as I drift off to sleep.

“See you soon, little one.”

Chapter Text

The bright morning sun wakes me up. As I stir, Ted’s arm tightens around me and soft snores fall from his lips. I’d love to stay and bask in this warmth even for just five more minutes, but I have to pee so bad. The baby makes me pee so frequently now that she’s resting comfortably on my bladder.

I really shouldn’t let Ted hold me like this, it isn’t fair to him. I don’t want to give him the wrong idea and confuse him. He likes me, and maybe I take advantage of that because I’ve been so touch starved. Maybe I just needed someone and Ted was there for me when no one else was.

But he’s still my best friend, and I wouldn’t trade him for the world.

Gently unwrapping his arm from my stomach, I slide out of bed and Ted mumbles before grabbing my pillow and hugging it to his chest. I grab some clothes for today, a festive long sleeve shirt and some warm thermal leggings, and go to the bathroom. After peeing and getting dressed, I brush my teeth before walking out into the kitchen.

My mom is already sitting at the table, still in her robe, reading a book, “Good morning, baby. Want some coffee? It’s decaf.”

“Good morning,” I return, nodding, “Yeah, coffee would be great.”

I pick out one of my favorite mugs and pour myself some, inhaling the comforting scent before pouring some creamer in and sitting with my mom. She slides me the plate of muffins we baked last night and I gladly take one, peeling the paper away.

We sit there together, quietly eating muffins and enjoying each others’ company just like we did only a few months ago. She reads her book, and I sip my coffee, wrapping my hands around the hot mug.

“Ted still asleep?”

I nod, covering my mouth as I chew, “I didn’t wanna wake him up.”

“Can I have a potentially difficult conversation with you?”

“Of course, mom,” I swallow my food, “You can say anything to me.”

She puts her book down, takes her reading glasses off, and takes a deep breath, “I don’t think Schlatt is ready to be a father.”

My eyes go wide, “What do you- How did-“

“Just let me get this off my chest… You know Ted really likes you, right?”

I nod.

“He already told me he’d be more than happy to help with raising this baby, y/n. Over the moon, in fact. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a man so excited for a baby to be born.”

I softly laugh.

“Do you know how rare a find that is? Ted is smart, handsome, funny, gentle… He’s going to college, he has a future and a plan. What does Schlatt have? This building that he barely takes care of?”

She’s not wrong. Ted is a wonderful guy. Any woman would be lucky to have him. He’s my best friend, I know him inside and out. I know he would never do anything to hurt me. But I’d be doing myself and my baby a disservice if I didn’t at least try to keep our little family together with Schlatt.

No, he hasn’t exactly been a gentleman in the past, but that could change. Sometimes a baby changes people, maybe he could become a sweetheart. Maybe he’ll soften up a little, and happily take on his new responsibilities?

That’s a whole lot of maybes.

“Sometimes, as a mother, you have to choose between what you want and what is good for your family. I know you probably want to work it out with Schlatt, but Ted is good for you,” she tears up, “And I’m so sorry I put you in a position where you thought you had to sleep with Schlatt to keep us in our home, y/n. That wasn’t ever what I wanted for you or what was good for you.”

Tears well up in my eyes as well, “You didn’t make me do anything, mama,” I take her hand in mine, “I wanted to sleep with him. In hindsight, I probably wanted to for a long time. I just wasn’t thinking of the consequences.”

She nods and wipes her eyes with her free hand, finally accepting it was me alone who got myself into this, “Well now I feel bad, I kind of grilled him yesterday while you and Ted were shopping.”

“You what?!”

“Now, take these cookies downstairs. I told him he’d get them as a thank you, and I guess now as an apology too,” she slides me a plate of the cookies she and Ted baked last night, “And talk to him. Figure it out.”

I blink at my mother’s words, taking in her speech. I just nod again and take the plate of cookies she slides across the table, standing up and grabbing my jacket by the door. I look back at her, picking up her book and continuing to read, and I head out the door.

As I make the all too familiar trip downstairs, my mind races.

What do I really want?

What do I really need?

The easy choice is Ted, but I still haven’t even had the chance to talk to Schlatt yet since I told him yesterday. I can’t make a decision without talking to him. I don’t know how he’ll feel now that he’s had 24 hours to digest this news. Is he still happy? Has he changed his mind?

Something I keep thinking about the past few months pops back into my mind: Why didn’t I tell him I was pregnant when I found out? There must have been some part of my brain that didn’t want him to know. I could’ve easily gotten his phone number online, Google is free. I could’ve called him at any point these past months and told him, but I didn’t.

What if he doesn’t want any part of this? I can’t make him want to be a father. Would I just have to smile and nod like I always do? Go back upstairs and pretend everything’s fine? Give birth by myself?

Well, I’d have my mom and Ted. At least I wouldn’t be alone.

I gently knock on his door and a moment later he answers with a cigarette between his lips.

Just like he did when I first knocked nine months ago.

“Hey,” I smile.

“Hey,” he smiles too.

That’s a good sign. Right?

“Come in, come in. It’s too cold out here,” he holds the door open and gestures inside.

I set the cookies on a side table and shrug off my jacket, tossing it on the lounge chair. He quickly puts out the cigarette, apologizing.

“It’s okay, it’s your home.”

“Here, let me help you,” he holds my hands and slowly eases me down onto the couch before sitting next to me.

“My mom said to give you those,” I nod towards the side table, “They’re really good, I had some last night.”

“Thanks,” he mumbles before picking at his hangnails.

I tuck my head into his side and he wraps an arm around my shoulder. It’s not the same as Ted, but it’s still warm and comforting.

“I’m sure you must have a lot of questions, John.”

He sits for a moment, “Is it a boy or a girl?”

“I don’t know, I wanted it to be a surprise. I think it’s a girl, but everyone else seems to think it’s a boy.”

“What do you want?”

“I just want it to be healthy, honestly. What about you?”

“Of course I’m gonna say a boy would probably be ideal, I think.”

“I think you’d look cute holding a little girl,” I try to flirt, try to lighten the mood.

He just nods and rubs my arm, “When did you find out?”

I shift a bit on the couch, “When um… when we- the last time we…”

“When you came down here crying?”

“Mmhmm.”

“Is that why you were crying??”

I nod against his side.

“Well why didn’t you tell me?!”

“I just… I was just afraid of how you’d react. You weren’t very nice to me after we slept together. I just wanted a distraction, I didn’t want to talk about it. That’s why I came down here that day, crying.”

He squeezes me closer, “I’m really sorry about my behavior in the past. I wanna be better going forward…When are you due?”

“Literally any minute now.”

“Really?” he asks, surprised.

“Yeah- ah!” I grab my side and wince.

“What?? What’s wrong?? Is it happening??”

I take his hand and hold it to my side, laughing softly, “Feel it?”

The baby kicks again, “Whoa! I feel it!” A smile spreads across his face.

We sit there a few minutes, feeling the baby kick.

“That’s so crazy, it’s like magic or something. I can’t believe we made a baby, y/n,” Schlatt kisses my temple, “It’s so funny… I always thought it would be hard like having a basketball under your shirt, but it’s still squishy.”

I laugh softly, “You never felt a pregnant woman’s belly?”

“Fuck no. Even when my sister in law was pregnant, I didn’t go near her,” he laughs too.

“It’s not contagious, you know.”

“I know,” he sighs.

“I didn’t know you have siblings.”

“Oh right. Yeah, I have two older siblings, a brother and sister,” he rubs the back of his neck with his free hand. He doesn’t seem eager to talk about family, which is the whole reason I came down here.

“There’s a lot we don’t know about each other,” a small frown sinks on my face.

He doesn’t reply and after another minute or two, I speak up, “What are we gonna do, John? I know this wasn’t planned at all and we aren’t in a relationship, so… If you didn’t wanna be involved, I’d completely understand. I won’t make you stay, you don’t have to.”

He shifts next to me, sitting up a bit straighter, “Y/n, I wanna try.”

I look up at him and give him a quick kiss on the lips before snuggling into his side again.

“I can’t promise you that I’ll be the perfect father or the perfect partner, but I wanna try. And I wanna try with you.”

I just smile and rub my belly.

“You can’t replace me with Ted that easily,” he chuckles before tickling me.

“You’re ridiculous,” I giggle.

“C’mon toots, let’s get more comfortable,” Schlatt helps me sit up before holding me with my back to his chest. He tugs my shirt over my belly and gently rubs circles.

This feels nice, just like I’d hoped.

Chapter Text

Schlatt’s POV

Simply put, I am just mesmerized. In one conversation, y/n has managed to fill that hole in my chest until I feel like I might burst, and that feeling that’s been pulsing inside me is beating harder than ever.

I feel like The Grinch, like my heart has grown three sizes. She’s got some kind of magic in her. Some magnetic force. Many women have tried in the past, but y/n’s the first to succeed.

Just holding y/n makes me feel like I might be complete again for the first time in months. Maybe my whole life. I probably hadn’t even realized something was missing in me because I’ve been drowning myself in liquor and women for the past 20 years.

But y/n makes me want to try. Try to heal, try to grow. Her laughter is contagious, her smile is so bright it could light up any room. She’s so soft-spoken and gentle. She’s unlike any other woman I’ve ever met, and I can’t think of a more perfect girl to really start my life with.

Did I really expect to find this in an 18 year old? Not exactly. But when life gives you lemons…

And we’ve got a baby coming. Feeling those little kicks was the most amazing thing I’ve ever felt. I can’t bring myself to stop rubbing her belly. I wish I could’ve done this the whole pregnancy. I wish I could’ve held her close every night and shown her all of the adoration I feel for her in this moment.

“C’mon toots, let’s get more comfortable,” I whisper.

I sit straight back against the couch and move y/n to sit between my legs with her back against my chest. Slowly, I wrap my arms around her sides and pull her shirt up over her belly before I rub softly. She relaxes and leans her head back onto my shoulder.

Fuck, I can get a great view of her tits from this angle. They’ve gotten so much bigger, that’s par for the course. I want this shirt off of her, now.

“Y/n, you are so fucking beautiful.”

My fingers slowly travel up and she starts breathing heavier. I fully remove her shirt and unhook her bra before I remove my own shirt and pull her back to my chest, skin to skin.

I gently cup her breasts in my hands, “Is this okay?”

“W-wait, no,” she stutters.

She’s never been shy around me, not about her breasts at least, “What’s wrong?”

Y/n squirms on the couch.

“C’mon toots, tell me,” I pull a strand of hair behind her ear.

“They’re really tender and… th-they leak.”

My expression softens. Her vulnerability tugs at my heart, this is nothing to be embarrassed about. I fucking pissed on her, for crying out loud, this is fine. We’re both adults.

“You’re pregnant, y/n. That just means your body is doing what it’s supposed to be doing, including making food for our baby,” I rub her shoulders, soothing her.

That seems to reassure her, because she relaxes back onto my chest. I trace my fingertips over her nipples, light as a feather, and she shudders.

“You’re so sensitive, I’m barely touching you,” I smirk.

“It’s b-been a long t-time.”

“You didn’t have sex at all this semester?”

“No, of course not,” she says like it should be obvious.

I love the way that sounds. It feels validating. She’s mine. It sends a surge of electricity right down to my cock.

“Good girl,” I whisper before kissing her neck.

She squirms against my lap, panting, “Please, John.”

All hot and bothered from some delicate nipple play? She doesn’t have to ask me twice. I know she needs this. I’ve heard pregnant women can get crazy horny, especially this far along. I won’t make her wait a moment longer.

I tug her leggings and panties down and she kicks them off, leaning back against me. I am beyond turned on. My cock is painfully straining against my jeans, but I wanna take care of my girl first.

I roll her tits around in my hands and feel the tiniest bit of milk leak onto my fingers. Y/n tenses in front of me, but I won’t let this ruin the moment for her.

Loudly, I suck it off my fingers, hopefully showing her it’s really not an issue. When my fingers are clean, I finally slide my hand down to where she needs me the most. Her hips buck and she moans.

“You are so wet, my poor girl. You missed me didn’t you? You must be so pent up, baby,” I continue my assault on her neck while I circle her clit.

She whimpers and nods. I wrap my right arm under her belly and lift it slightly so my left hand has more room, and I pick up the pace.

“I missed you so much,” y/n whines.

“No one else can get my girl off like me, huh?”

“No one, baby.”

I slide my fingers inside her tight, wet cunt and curl them up. She gasps and moans and I chuckle darkly in her ear.

“That’s it, toots, let it go,” I hold her steady to make sure she won’t slide off the couch.

“So close,” y/n digs her nails into my thigh and grinds on my fingers.

“Come on, y/n. Wanna feel you grip around my fingers. Wanna make you feel so good, baby.”

“I’m gonna come, John… oh fuck, don’t stop!”

My wrist starts cramping but I push through until she’s a shaking mess on my couch, screaming and writhing before I gently rub her thighs.

“That’s it, good girl. Ride it out, nice and easy.”

She comes down from her high, panting and twitching.

I felt her squirt again. I look over her shoulder and smirk before whispering, “Oh baby, look at the big mess you made on my coffee table. You dirty little girl.”

I hold her close, giving her tender kisses on her head and neck. My hands massage her thighs and arms before settling on her belly, gently stroking circles. I missed her so much. Her little noises, the smell of her shampoo.

“I need you inside.”

“Are you sure?” I lean over her shoulder to look her in the eye, “I mean, I know it’s safe, but… you’re so close. And you know I’m not gentle.”

“It’s now or months from now and I’ve been waiting for so long, please John,” she begs me.

I nod and slowly help her stand up, her legs are a little wobbly. Y/n turns to fully face me and I cup her face in my hands. We lean towards each other and kiss. I mean really kiss, not just some little pecks. We melt together, we’re the only two people on the planet right now. Our tongues slide along each other and she brings a hand up to rest on my bare chest.

“I can’t do this the way I’d like. You know I’m a missionary guy, I love to watch you,” I hold her hands in mine, “But I’m gonna take care of you, toots.”

She nods and presses soft kisses to my chest, “We’ll make it work.”

I squeeze her hands before leading her to my bedroom and sitting her on my bed, “Do you need some more foreplay? You’re so tight. You could sit on my face.”

She shakes her head and brings a hand up to my belt, “Can I do something for you this time?”

My breath shudders before I nod, “Yes, please.”

Y/n smirks and tugs my jeans and boxers down to my ankles. I kick them off and climb onto the bed with her, laying my head on my pillow. She slowly turns to face me and crawls up on her knees until she’s knelt next to me.

“Can you teach me?”

My cock twitches as she bites her lip so innocently. With all the filthy things we’ve done, she still acts so delicate.

“Just do what comes to you naturally, y/n, I’ll let you know if it’s not right.”

She nods and takes me in her hand, stroking up and down torturously slow.

“That’s it, baby. A little tighter,” my eyes struggle to stay open. I wanna watch her, but it feels too fucking good.

While my eyes are closed, she leans down and presses a kiss to my leaking tip. My hips buck and a groan rumbles through my chest.

“F-fuck, y/n.”

I can see her smirk before pulling my skin back and wrapping her lips around my tip.

Christ on a cross.

My toes curl and my eyes roll back as y/n sucks me like a pro, slowly lowering her head further and further down my cock. When she finds her limit, she pulls back up before bobbing her head.

I gather her hair in my fist and hold her head. Not pushing her further down, just holding it. I force my eyes open to look at her and see she’s rubbing her clit. My dirty girl.

“Alright, that’s enough, you’re gonna make me come,” I chuckle as I gently pull her off me. A string of saliva connects her lips to my cock as she smirks.

“You wanna be on top or on your knees, baby? Whatever you’re comfortable with.”

She pauses, really thinking it over, “If I was on top, you’d hold me, right? Make sure I don’t fall?”

“Of course, y/n,” I rub her arm, “And if you get tired or uncomfortable, we can stop or slow down.”

Y/n nods and very carefully climbs on top of me while I hold her hands. She lets go and holds her belly up so I can guide myself in. Once my tip is in, she rests her hands on my chest and slowly sinks down, a guttural moan leaves her throat.

“Fuck,” my breath shudders, “You are so fucking beautiful, toots. I missed you so much.”

She slowly raises her hips and slams back down on me, starting to set a pace for herself.

“You’re doing so good, baby,” I hold her hips.

“Feel so full, John. So fucking full.”

“I’ve dreamt about this, y’know. About your perfect tits swinging in my face while you bounce on my fat cock. Came so hard with your panties in my hand while you were away.”

That sprouts goosebumps all over her thighs and she clenches around me.

“I’m so close, John,” she whimpers and pants above me.

“It’s okay, come, baby. You’ve been such a good girl, been waiting so long for this.”

Sweat gathers on her forehead and her movements slow drastically. “I can’t,” she pouts, tears welling up in her eyes, “Help me.”

I quickly nod and hold her hips just above mine and fuck up into her. She throws her head back and holds my thighs right above my knees.

“Fuck! Yes, oh my god! Don’t stop, please, please,” she moans wildly above me before coming hard around me.

The pulse of her tight little cunt drives my orgasm home and I slowly thrust into her until she’s completely full of my load.

I sit up and wrap my arms around her, kissing her lips and neck. “You did so good, baby,” I rub her arms and legs.

I carefully lay her down and hold her close, stroking her hair, “You’re so beautiful.”

“You’ve said that about a million times,” she laughs, still trying to catch her breath.

“I know I’ve said it a million times, but you really are stunning. You were always gorgeous, but being pregnant you are seriously glowing. Radiant... Sorry I’m rambling, but it’s true.”

“That’s just your biology. You only feel like that because it’s your baby,” she giggles.

“No, no, you are ravishing, y/n. Being pregnant really is a sight to see.”

She blushes before gasping and wincing.

I smile, “What, another kick?”

“Oh no,” she freezes before clenching her legs and groaning.

“Y/n, are you okay?” I spread her legs a bit. The sheets are soaked, “Oh fuck… fuck fuck fuck!”

She takes a deep breath. Her voice comes out strained, “Calm down, John. Just get me something to clean up with.”

I jump out of bed and grab a damp washcloth from my bathroom. After she’s wiped the come off of her, she tosses it on the floor.

“Okay, now… help me get dressed.”

I hold her hand and scoop my arm behind her back as we walk back to the living room where her clothes are. We sit on the couch and I dress her as fast and gently as I possibly can. I see the coffee table and grab a rag to wipe it off really quick.

“Okay, now what?”

“Now, go get my mom and Ted.”

With a serious sense of urgency, I run back to my bedroom and pull my clothes on. I grab my wallet and keys before hurrying back to y/n. She’s fisting her jacket in her hands and groaning.

“It’s okay baby, I’ll be right back, okay? It’ll be okay, y/n, I’ll only be gone a minute.”

“Oh Jesus, just go!”

“Right.”

I run up the stairs two at a time until I get to her mom’s apartment and bang on the door as hard as I can, “It’s Schlatt, open up!” I bang the door again.

Please God, I hope you fucks are awake.

Chapter Text

Ted’s POV

The morning sun shines brightly through the blinds. A shiver runs up my legs and with closed eyes I reach for y/n, wanting her warmth.

“Y/n?” I mumble.

She’s not here.

Is she-

I shoot up in her bed before I remember, she would’ve told me if she was in labor. She would’ve woken me up.

Regardless, I’m definitely awake now. I get up and brush my teeth before going to the kitchen. Y/n’s mom is on the couch, reading a book in her robe. I grab some coffee and a muffin before joining her.

“Morning.”

“Good morning, Ted,” she smiles before taking her glasses off, “You sleep okay?”

“Mmhmm,” I swallow some coffee, “Other than y/n’s snoring.”

We laugh a moment, “Oh, you just missed her. I sent her down to take Schlatt some of the cookies we baked.”

I hide my frown behind my mug, “Schlatt… He’s uhhh… A weird guy, huh? We talked a little when I went down to the laundry room yesterday.”

I don’t know if y/n’s mom knows what I know, and it’s not exactly my business to share with her. She has to know, right? It’s her landlord and her daughter.

“Why does everyone think I don’t notice things??” she slams her book shut.

With a wince and a scrunched up nose, I hesitantly ask, “So… you know?”

“Duh!”

“And, are you okay with that?”

“Of course not. But there’s not much I can do about it, is there?”

My mouth moves before I can think, “Would you be happier if it was mine?”

She looks at me like I’m an idiot, and maybe I am. Or maybe she’s about to slap me across the face, and I wouldn’t blame her one bit. What the hell kind of question is that??

“Would I be happier if a 19 year old got my daughter pregnant instead of a man almost twice her age? You know that’s not up to us, Ted. And frankly, I’d rather she would’ve finished college and got married first.”

I nod and pull at a loose thread on my pajama pants.

I still can’t wrap my head around how this happened in the first place. Hearing y/n talk about family, I would also assume she’d be married first before kids came along. I just can’t see her being irresponsible like this, she’s the smartest woman I know. And he’s how old?? What the fuck was he thinking?

Did he force her?

I’ll kill him.

No, she wouldn’t come back here for Christmas, if that was the case. I know her well enough to know that. I know her so well.

She knows me too. Better than anyone knows me. She knows my dreams and how to make me laugh and what I need when I’m sick. I never imagined opening myself up completely like that to anyone.

I…

I…

“What’s on your mind, Ted? I know that look anywhere,” y/n’s mom cuts off my train of thought.

Tears threaten to spill from my eyes and I look away, shaking my head.

“Hey, hey,” she rubs my arm, “You can tell me, it’ll be a secret, I promise.”

“I… I love her. I love her so much, y/m/n,” my voice cracks and the tears run down my face, “I love her and it hurts me so much to feel this way and not be able to tell her.”

“Oh Ted, honey… those are really big feelings. Are you absolutely sure?”

“I love your daughter with my whole heart, I want nothing more than to make her happy for the rest of my life,” my shoulders shake with sobs.

“That’s wonderful, Ted, but you have to wait a bit longer to tell her.”

“But-“

“Y/n has so much on her plate. It’s Christmas, she’s ready to pop, and we aren’t even sure if Schlatt will stick around or drop her flat on her ass. I know it hurts to keep this a secret, I know, baby. But please, don’t overwhelm her. I know you care deeply, you know I’m right.”

She’s right. It hurts like a knife in my chest, but she’s absolutely right.

“C’mon kiddo,” she pats my knee and brushes a tear from my cheek, “Get dressed and how about we bake that gingerbread house?”

I smile and nod before standing up. It feels a little better having told someone how I feel. And admitting it to myself.

After I’m dressed in a flannel and slacks, there’s a loud bang at the door.

“What in the hell?” y/n’s mom calls out from the kitchen.

“I’ll check, you stay there-“

“It’s Schlatt, open up!”

I groan and roll my eyes. What kind of way is that to knock on the door?

“What does he want?”

“I’ll find out,” I sigh and open the door, “Hello, Sch-“

“Y/n’s water just broke, we gotta go!” he cuts me off with urgency.

“You hear that?” I call over my shoulder, “He says your grandkid’s on its way.”

“Seriously? I just set the oven to preheat!” she yells as she comes to join me at the door.

“How are you guys not freaking out??” he runs his fingers through his hair.

“Because we both knew this was coming for months,” I mumble.

“Ted, her hospital bag is right there in the closet. Grab it and I’ll go get dressed.”

I pick up the bag and my keys before I walk to the doorway, “Which apartment is yours? I’ll go bring her the bag.”

Schlatt stops me with a hand on my shoulder, “Wait, Ted,” he looks me in the eyes for the first time ever, “Can you please go back to campus and get the crib and essentials you guys bought? Please, it would really be a huge help.”

So he was listening to me in the laundry room. He was paying attention, even if he was paying me no mind.

“Of course, anything to help.”

“Thanks, Ted,” he stands aside and I hand him y/n’s bag and head for the stairs.

Schlatt’s POV

Y/n’s mom and I go downstairs to my apartment. Once we’re inside, I sit next to y/n on the couch. She’s still clutching her jacket in her fists and groaning, but now sweat is starting to build on her forehead.

Out of the corner of my eye, her mom starts sniffing loudly with a disgusted expression on her face.

Jesus, lady, it’s just cigarettes.

“Schlatt, your shirt is on inside out.”

I look down at my shirt before I look up at her with her hands on her hips.

“I send her down here to talk and y’all start trying to make baby number two-”

“Mom!!” y/n painfully yells at her.

She puts her hands up, “Fine, let’s get you in the car, baby.”

We help her stand up and slowly walk to my car parked on the street, “Nice and easy, babe,” I ease her into the passenger seat.

“No, wait! Where’s Ted?”

“He went back to campus to grab your stuff,” I buckle her seatbelt.

She pouts, “Okay.”

I climb into the driver’s seat, starting my car.

“Don’t worry, baby, he’ll be back before the exciting stuff happens,” y/n’s mom rubs her shoulders from the backseat.

What?!

“It gets more exciting than this??”

My heart is already beating out of my chest.

~~

I get y/n to the hospital and we get her checked in. Her mom helps her change into her gown, demanding I turn around. I don’t know what her problem is, it’s nothing I haven’t seen before. Shit, I just saw all of it an hour ago.

A nurse comes in and checks her cervix before looking up at y/n’s mom and I, “Alright, get comfortable. Y’all are gonna be here a while,” she peels her gloves off with a snap, “She’s only two centimeters dilated.”

I finally feel like I can breathe a little, my sense of urgency is somewhat dissolved. I pull a chair up to her bed and hold her hand in mine, mindful of her IV. She looks up at me with her big eyes and I brush her hair from her forehead.

“I’m scared.”

“I am too, y/n,” I lean over to kiss her forehead, “I am too.”

Chapter Text

Schlatt’s POV

As the hours pass torturously slow, her labor continues just as slow. I kind of thought it might go faster than this, but what do I know? With every centimeter y/n dilates, she breathes heavier, squeezes my hand harder, and vomits a lot more.

Unfortunately, I’ve grown to recognize her “I’m going to throw up” face throughout today. Each time, I hold a kidney dish up to her and rub her back before wiping her mouth and giving her some water. No matter how disgusting this is, I’m absolutely determined to be here for her.

“Mama, the minute Ted calls, I wanna talk to him. Promise me.”

Apparently, my help isn’t sufficient enough.

“I promise, baby.”

For either of them.

“Alright, folks, we’re getting closer! Just around another 2 centimeters and we’ll have ourselves a baby!” the nurse gleefully announces before she turns to just me, “Are you gonna cut the cord, daddy?”

The nurse stares at me with a wide smile, expecting an answer, but I don’t have one. I’m completely paralyzed in place. I think the reality of the situation is finally hitting me. Suddenly, this room feels too god damn small.

Out. I need out.

“May I please get some more water?” y/n asks the nurse.

“I’ll get it,” I quickly interject, before leaving the room.

But I don’t get her the water. Instead, I run outside to the front of the hospital and slam my ass down on the curb, lighting a cigarette. It’s fucking freezing out here without my jacket, but it was way too hot in that room.

I take my phone out of my pocket and call my brother.

“Hey, John, what’s up? How are you?”

“Y/n’s pregnant. And she’s having the baby right now.”

“She’s what?! Is it yours??”

“Yeah, of course it’s mine.”

“Congratulations! Oh, I bet mom will be so happy-“

“I’m not ready to be a dad,” I cut him off. My hand shakes as I bring the cigarette to my lips for another drag, “This is all happening way too fast. I only found out she was pregnant yesterday. I don’t know what I was thinking, I reacted so happily. I’m not happy! I’m fucking losing my mind!”

“Calm down, John, calm down. You have to be there for y/n, and your baby. At least for the birth.”

My world feels like it’s crumbling down around me. If a pit opened up right here in the parking lot and sucked me in, I wouldn’t be surprised at all. This wasn’t how I expected my life to go. This isn’t what I want.

“I can’t do this.”

“John, wait-“

I hang up and take a final drag from my cigarette before snubbing it on the ground.

What the fuck am I gonna do? What the fuck am I gonna do?

She doesn’t need me. She has Ted and her mom. She’ll be fine without me.

But the baby…

Oh, who am I kidding? I can’t take care of a baby, I can barely take care of myself. Y/n and the kid will be better off without me. The illusion I created that we would be a happy little family was just that. An illusion.

I stand up and dust myself off before I walk to my car and get in. There’s only one person in the world that I wanna see right now. I start my car and buckle up.

Y/n’s mom’s POV

Where are these fucking assholes?? I know I told Schlatt he could back out, and I meant it. But where the hell is Ted? He was so excited to be here. If he really loves y/n, he wouldn’t miss this for anything. He should’ve been back by now.

“I’m so scared, mommy. It hurts so bad,” y/n cries from her hospital bed.

My heart sinks, she hasn’t called me that since she was a very little girl. I know she’s terrified.

I squeeze her hand reassuringly, “I know, baby.”

“Where are they? Schlatt’s been gone for 2 hours and Ted’s been gone for 10,” I can hear panic in her voice, and her chest starts to rapidly rise and fall.

“I know, y/n, just breathe. You cannot stress yourself out right now. I’m here, I’ll always be here.”

I should’ve told her that from the start. In hindsight, it was far too harsh for me to suggest an abortion only minutes after she had found out she was pregnant. That was uncalled for. I was supposed to support her first, then offer alternative choices.

Ultimately, it was always her decision, and I shouldn’t have given her the cold shoulder those first few months. She needed me, and I wasn’t there. I’ll regret that the rest of my life. Y/n is my only child and I turned my back on her. I can only thank God that she had Ted.

Where is that prick??

“I love you, mama.”

“I love you too. I’m not going anywhere,” I squeeze her hand again and kiss her forehead, “Let’s have this baby.”

Y/n nods and keeps breathing through a strong contraction, “God, this fucking hurts!”

I won’t dare tell her it only keeps getting worse from here.

“I told you to get the epidural, dumbass,” Schlatt says from the doorway.

Y/n’s POV

A smile of relief spreads across my face as he crosses the room to me. He takes my hand in his and brushes his thumb over my knuckles.

“I’m here, babe. How are you doing?”

“I’m pushing a human out of my vagina, how are you doing?” I laugh through tears.

“I’m better. Sorry, I just got so overwhelmed-“

“Don’t apologize, you’re here now.”

“I wouldn’t miss this for the world,” he kisses the top of my head and rubs my back.

A strong contraction comes through and I groan through it, squeezing Schlatt’s hand. The doctor comes in to check my progress again.

“Okay, mommy, it’s just about time to push!” she smiles.

“No, no we’re still waiting for Ted,” I beg my mom with my eyes for just a little more time.

She gives me a look of understanding and strokes my hair, “Babies aren’t on a schedule, honey. If it’s coming, it’s coming now, there’s no stopping it.”

“I’ll go get my nurses,” the doctor stands up and leaves.

I look up at Schlatt, “Last chance to leave.”

“I’m not going anywhere.”

The doctor comes back, “Grandma, daddy, can you help mommy get in a better position?”

My mom and Schlatt help me scoot down to the edge of the bed and they each hold one of my thighs back.

“Now, your body will tell you when to push. Just push when your body says to, don’t try to fight it or rush it.”

I nod and look at my mom and Schlatt, they both nod reassuringly. When a new contraction rips through me, I start pushing.

“Good! That was a good push, y/n.”

I nod and pant before pushing again with a scream, feeling like I’m being sawed in half.

“Good girl, you’re doing so good!” Schlatt cheers me on.

“Come on y/n, bring us this baby,” my mom encourages.

Time slows down. Noises are drowned out.

“I can see the head, y/n, you’re almost there!”

I push again.

“Head’s out!”

I get to meet my baby today. Nine months of wondering that they’ll look like, what they’ll grow up to be, all comes down to today.

“Come on y/n two more big pushes,” my mom squeezes my thigh.

There’s a ringing in my ears, like the world becomes silent. I can feel my mouth is open, but I don’t hear my scream. Then, breaking through the silence, I hear a weak cry.

I blink and see my baby being brought up to me, wriggling and naked. I blink again and the world stops being slow and I hear a stronger cry.

I eagerly wrap my arms around my baby and cry happy tears, “Hey, little one.”

“Date of birth December 14th, time is 21:12,” the nurse declares.

“Hi baby, I’m your mama,” I brush its head with the blanket.

“Y/n…” Schlatt falls to his knees beside me.

I peel my eyes away from our baby for a moment and see Schlatt reduced to a crying mess, a look of pure awe on his face.

“Are you a boy or a girl?”

“It’s a boy,” my mom cries next to me.

I look at Schlatt, “Cameron.”

“What babe?”

“I wanna name him Cameron.”

“Yeah… Yeah that’s a good strong name… Cameron,” he kisses his son’s head, “Cameron.”

Just then, my phone rings. My mom hurries to pick it up and answers it before holding it to my ear, “Teddy? Where are you? You should be here,” I tear up again, “You were right, it’s a boy-“

“Y/n, it’s Lisa.”

“L-Lisa? Where’s Ted?”

“He got in an accident on his way back to campus.”

I feel my breath knocked out of me, a knot twists in my chest, “What? What happened?? How did-“

“Another car slid on the ice all the way across the highway and hit him head-on.”

“Is… Is he…?” a lump rises on my throat, I’m incapable of finishing that question.

“They’re still working on him, he’s been in surgery for a few hours now,” her voice trembles, I can hear her choking back tears.

“Lisa, I am so sorry. He’s gonna be alright, okay? I’ll be there as soon as possible-“

“No honey, don’t be silly. You just gave birth. Enjoy your little bundle. I’ll be sure to call you with any news.”

“Okay, please do. I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be, he’d do anything for you. I’ll let you go. Send a picture of your boy, the family could use something to smile about,” she half-jokes.

”Of course I will. I’ll talk to you later, Lisa.”

I hang up the phone as new tears well up in my eyes and spill over.

“What’s wrong?” my mom and Schlatt say in unison.

I hold Cameron tight as I try to repeat what I was just told.

Schlatt’s POV

Oh my god, I’m a fucking asshole. A dirty, rotten, bastard. This is all my fault. He wouldn’t have been on those icy roads if it wasn’t for me.

I just wanted to enjoy the birth of our child without Ted, I didn’t think that was too much to ask. I could’ve just bought a damn crib and other shit, money’s not an issue. Why’d I have to send that kid out on my behalf? It’s not like we need that shit right now, y/n and Cameron will still be in the hospital for another day or two.

He wasn’t even all that bad. If I remove my own jealousy, he’s been nothing but a good friend to y/n during a time when I couldn’t be there for her. They just studied together and spent time with his family, he wasn’t an asshole. Even in person, he wasn’t anything but neutral towards me.

And obviously y/n’s mom loves him. She’s not an easy woman to please, and I can see the way this news is also affecting her. This moment is supposed to be filled with happy tears, but it’s been tarnished.

I myself can’t even enjoy holding my beautiful son right now, the guilt is suffocating. How am I supposed to teach Cameron to be a good man, if his father is a piece of shit? I saw Ted treating his mother with kindness and respect and I was so blinded with my own jealously and possessiveness that I made up an excuse to get him away from her.

Now he could be seriously hurt, or worse…

No… No, I can’t think like that. He has to be okay, for y/n, for our little family.

Cameron fusses a bit in my arms and I gently rock him, “Shhh, shhh. I’m here, little man. Daddy’s here.”

Please, God. Please, he has to be okay.

Ted’s POV

“Thanks, Ted,” he stands aside and I hand him y/n’s bag and head for the stairs.

I run down to my truck, tripping down two or three stairs on my way. I just can’t contain myself. Y/n is giving birth! The baby is almost here! I’ve been waiting all semester for this.

I really hope it’s a boy. I just imagine a perfect little cherub with y/n’s big eyes and cheeks in overalls as y/n giggles and tries to help him walk. Fuck, I love her so much. I already love this kid too.

Of course when Schlatt asked me to get her stuff from campus, I couldn’t say no. I’d do anything for her, anything for their baby.

I buckle up and call my mom on speaker as I pull onto the highway.

“Hey Teddy! How’s it going with y/n and her mom?”

“Mom, y/n is in labor! I just left her apartment, I’m on my way to get the stuff we bought- whoa! These roads are slippery as hell.”

“Ted, you be careful. I know you’re excited, but drive slow, please,” she puts on her serious mom tone.

I ease my foot off the gas a bit, “I know mom, I have plenty of time. She’ll probably be in labor for what? Another 12 hours?”

“At least. Emily was in labor for I think 22 hours with her first.”

“Yeah, I have plenty of time to get there and back. Oh, I met the father! Mom, he is the weirdest guy ever. He’s- oh shit!!”

I jerk the steering wheel and slam my foot on the break pedal. I cover my face with my arms as oncoming headlights blind me.

“Fuck!!”

Suddenly my world is upside down then right side up again as my truck flips over and over.

“Teddy? Ted?! Theodore Kennedy, you answer me right this moment!” my mom screams through the phone.

I groan and barely open my eyes, looking at my wallpaper. We look so cute there. My vision fades a bit, it’s so hard to hold my eyes open. I have to stay awake for her. She needs me, I have to get to her. I have to stay awake.

She needs me…

I have to…

“Y/n…”