Archive of Our Own ^beta

The classroom buzzed with the usual chaos of a Monday morning—papers shuffling, conversations humming, and the occasional sound of chairs scraping against the floor. Y/N sighed, clutching their notebook tightly. It had already been a tough day, and the teacher's sudden announcement wasn't making it any better.
"Y/N, you're moving to the seat by the window," the teacher said with a tone that brooked no argument.
Y/N's heart sank as they glanced toward the designated spot. Jake, the school's infamous Emo boy, was slouched in his seat, his face turned toward the window. His headphones were on, and his foot tapped subtly to a beat no one else could hear.
Y/N hesitated, then reluctantly gathered their things. The idea of sitting next to Jake wasn't appealing. They'd never gotten along—his standoffish attitude grated on Y/N, and they suspected their presence irritated him just as much.
As Y/N approached, Jake didn't acknowledge them, his eyes fixed somewhere beyond the glass. His dark bangs partially obscured his face, and the faint hum of his music drifted from his headphones. Y/N couldn't place the song but could feel its raw emotion.
Sliding into the chair next to him, Y/N tried to ignore the nervous flutter in their stomach. For a moment, it seemed Jake hadn't noticed. But then he turned his head slightly, his dark eyes narrowing as he pulled off his headphones.
"Why tf are you here sitting next to me?" he asked coldly, his voice low and laced with irritation.
Y/N blinked, caught off guard by the directness. "The teacher told me to," they replied quietly, keeping their tone neutral.
Jake rolled his eyes, annoyed, removed one of his earphones, and glared at them from head to toe.
"Figures. Can't believe I'm stuck with you out of all people."
For the rest of the period, an awkward silence hung between them. Y/N tried to focus on the lesson, but Jake's presence was impossible to ignore. Occasionally, they stole glances at him—at how his fingers drummed against the desk in time with the music still playing faintly in his headphones, at the scribbles in the notebook he had open, which looked more like lyrics than class notes.
Eventually, curiosity got the better of Y/N. They leaned over slightly and whispered, "What are you listening to?"
Jake looked at them, his expression unreadable. For a moment, Y/N thought he might ignore them entirely. But then he sighed and pulled out one earbud, holding it out.
He raised an eyebrow, almost as if he found your presence here amusing.
"Why do you care?"
Y/N hesitated, then took the earbud and slipped it in. The song was raw and heavy, the kind of music that felt like it came straight from someone's soul. It wasn't Y/N's usual taste, but something about it resonated.
"It's… different," Y/N admitted. "But I like it."
Jake huffed, surprised by their reaction. He half-expected Y/N to sneer and call his taste in music trash, but surprisingly, they didn't.
He looked at Y/N, studying their face as if trying to determine whether they were joking. "Really? You're not messing with me?"
"I'm serious!" Y/N said a bit defensively. "It's... intense. Honest. I can see why you like it."
Jake smirked slightly, clearly not expecting that answer. He leaned back in his chair, studying Y/N intently for a moment longer before replying.
"Huh. Well, color me surprised. Didn't expect you to have decent taste in music, considering how basic you look."
"What's that supposed to mean?" Y/N asked, their cheeks flushing. Jake shrugged, his tone casual yet his gaze sharp. "Nothing. Just surprised you don't hate it, that's all."
For the first time, the tension between them seemed to ease. They spent the rest of the class in relative silence, but it wasn't as uncomfortable as before. When the bell rang, Jake stood and slung his bag over his shoulder.
"Later, newbie," he said, his tone lighter than before.
Y/N watched him leave, a strange feeling settling in their chest. Maybe sitting next to Jake wouldn't be so bad after all.
Later that day, Jake leaned against the wall outside the school, his headphones draped around his neck. His usual scowl softened into something more contemplative. He tapped his foot to an imaginary beat, thinking about Y/N.
They weren't like the others at school, who avoided him or whispered behind his back. Y/N sat beside him without hesitation, asked about his music, and even… liked it. Jake shook his head, trying to push the thought away.
But he couldn't stop noticing them for the rest of the day.
In biology, he caught them doodling in their notebook, their tongue poking out slightly in concentration. They sat with their usual group at lunch, laughing at something one of their friends said. Even in the hallways, their presence stood out more than normal.
Jake hated this feeling of curiosity, this itch to know more about someone who wasn't already part of his world. But the more he tried to ignore it, the more his mind circled back to them.
Y/N, meanwhile, was grappling with their own set of thoughts. Sitting next to Jake had been… unexpected. They'd always known him as the aloof Emo boy who seemed to exist in his world of music and rebellion. But that brief moment of connection—the shared earbud, the song—had revealed something more profound.
For the first time, Y/N wondered if Jake's cold exterior wasn't a defense mechanism. What would it be like to break through it?
The next day, Y/N arrived early to class, determined to make the most of their new seating arrangement. When Jake arrived, he paused at the door, his gaze flicking toward them.
"You're here early," he said, slipping into his seat with practiced ease. "Could say the same to you," Y/N replied, a small smile tugging at their lips. Jake huffed, not expecting them to be so cheeky, but a hint of amusement flickered in his eyes.
"Fair enough. Couldn't sleep, so I decided to come early and get this over with." He leaned back in his chair, his eyes studying Y/N again, but there was less edge to his gaze this time. It was almost… interested?
Y/N hesitated before asking, "Bad dreams?" Jake tensed momentarily, clearly caught off guard by the personal question. He shifted in his seat, avoiding their gaze. "Something like that."
He put his headphones on, signaling the end of that conversation. But Y/N didn't miss the flicker of vulnerability in his eyes.
As the weeks passed, the tension between them continued to thaw. Y/N started asking more questions about Jake's music, lyrics, and art. And Jake, despite his initial resistance, began opening up—bit by bit.
"You write songs?" Y/N asked one day, leaning over his desk to peek at his notebook. Jake quickly slammed the notebook shut, shooting them a warning glare.
"Don't you know it's rude to read other people's stuff without asking?"
He looked tense momentarily before sighing and leaning back in his chair.
"They're Lyrics," Jake corrected, but his tone lacked its usual edge. "Not like anyone would care."
"I would," Y/N said softly. Jake looked at them, taken aback by their earnest tone. He seemed ready to snap back with a defense, but the words died on his tongue as he realized they weren't mocking or making fun of him. They actually meant it.
"Maybe," he muttered, stuffing the notebook into his bag. "Maybe I'll let you read one someday."
Outside of class, their interactions were less frequent but no less meaningful. Jake would nod at Y/N in the hallway, his version of a friendly greeting, and Y/N would smile back. Sometimes, they'd catch each other's eye during lunch or between periods, a silent understanding passing between them.
For Jake, Y/N became a reminder that not everyone in the world was shallow or judgmental. For Y/N, Jake was proof that even the coldest people had warmth hidden beneath their surface.
One afternoon, as the final bell rang, Y/N caught up with Jake as he was heading toward the school gates.
"Hey," they said, breathless. Jake halted, looking back as Y/N approached him. There was a hint of irritation on his face as if he were about to tell them off, but the look faded when he saw the determination in their eyes.
"What?" he asked bluntly, his usual cold tone softened ever-so-slightly.
"Do you Want to walk home together?" Y/N asked, their tone casual but their heart pounding. Jake was surprised by the invitation, his eyes widening slightly before he quickly masked his surprise.
"Sure," he said, his voice low. As they walked under the fading sunlight, the conversation came quickly—talk of music, school, and what they couldn't say to anyone else.
Walking with Y/N, Jake relaxed in a way he never did around anyone else. Their easy banter and genuine interest drew him in against his will.
He looked at them, studying their profile as the sunlight softened their face. At that moment, he wondered what it would be like to hold their hand.
Jake quickly shoved the thought aside, annoyed with himself. //What's wrong with me?// He thought, clenching his fists in his pockets. He didn't do stuff like this—wonder about people, imagine moments that only existed in cheesy rom-coms. And yet, with Y/N, it felt… different.
Y/N, oblivious to Jake's internal turmoil, turned to him with a curious expression. "So, do you always walk home alone?" they asked, tilting their head. Jake snapped out of his thoughts, his expression turning guarded again. He cleared his throat, shrugging casually before replying. "Pretty much. Nobody wants to walk with the Emo kid, y'know?"
Y/N frowned slightly. "That's their loss. You're… interesting." Jake hadn't expected that. He looked at them, a hint of disbelief in his eyes.
"Interesting?" he echoed, scoffing. "Coming from someone who looks like they've never had an interesting thought, that's not much of a compliment."
"I mean it," Y/N insisted. "You're different, Jake. And I think that's kind of cool." Jake was quiet momentarily as if he was struggling to process the compliments. Finally, he huffed, stuffing his hands deeper into his pockets. "You're full of shitty compliments, you know that?"
But despite his gruff tone, there was a hint of a smile playing at the corner of his lips as if secretly pleased by their words.
They walked silently for a while, the only sounds coming from the occasional car passing by and the crunch of gravel underfoot.
"Do you ever feel like you don't belong?" Jake asked suddenly, his voice quieter than usual.
Y/N looked at him, their expression softening. "Sometimes," they admitted. "I think everyone does, in their way. But… I don't think it's about belonging to a place or a group. It's about finding people who get you, even if it's just one person."
Jake nodded, staring up at the darkening sky as they continued walking. He was quiet momentarily, thinking over Y/N's words before responding.
"You make it sound so simple, like finding someone like that isn't some miracle. People don't get me, and I sure as hell don't get them."
He shot them a sidelong glance, his expression unusually vulnerable. They reached a small park along the way, where the path was lined with trees, and a faint breeze carried the scent of grass and wildflowers. Jake slowed his pace, glancing at an empty bench nearby. "Want to sit for a bit?" he asked, surprising himself.
Y/N nodded, smiling. "Sure." Jake sat down on the bench, leaving ample space between them. He leaned back, his arms stretched out along the backrest.
The park was quiet, and Jake looked lost in thought. The light evening breeze rustled the trees around them, and the sky turned into a beautiful canvas of purple and orange as the sun began to set.
After a while, Jake pulled out his notebook and flipped it open to a blank page. Y/N leaned over, curious.
"Are you writing something?" they asked. Jake tensed slightly, reluctant to share his creations. "Kind of," he said, his voice low as he watched for their reaction. "Depends."
"On what?"
Jake glanced at them, his eyes flickering with something unreadable before he looked back down at the open page. He hesitated, then handed Y/N the notebook and pen. "On whether you've got anything worth saying."
Y/N blinked, surprised, but their face broke into a grin. "Alright, challenge accepted."
They took the pen and started scribbling; their expression focused but playful. Jake watched them out of his eye, a small smile tugging at his lips. He wasn't sure why he'd handed them his most personal possession, but it felt… right.
When Y/N handed the notebook back, Jake scanned the page. It wasn't a song or a poem but a simple message: "Sometimes, it's not about being understood by everyone. Sometimes, it's about finding someone willing to try."
Jake's eyes widened as he read the words on the page. His mind was reeling, grappling with the strange feeling in his chest. No one had ever tried to understand him, let alone write something so profound.
"It's good," he said, his voice softer than usual. "I mean, for a first try."
Y/N laughed, and Jake felt a warmth he hadn't felt in a long time.
As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting everything in a golden glow, Jake thought again about what it would be like to hold their hand.
This time, he didn't push the thought away. Instead, he let it linger, like a melody that might one day become a song.
As the world around them faded into the shadows of nightfall, Jake found himself strangely reluctant to say goodnight. Sitting on that bench, he felt something stirring inside him – a connection, a bond he'd never experienced before.
He glanced at Y/N, their face illuminated by the soft artificial glow of the nearby streetlights. At that moment, he felt a strange urge to reach out and touch their hand, to bridge the small gap between them.
Jake's fingers twitched where they rested on his lap. He clenched his hand into a fist, forcing himself to stay still. //Don't be stupid,// he told himself.//They probably don't even see you that way.//
But then Y/N shifted slightly, leaning back on the bench with a content sigh. They turned their head toward him, catching him mid-thought.
"What?" Y/N asked, a soft smile playing on their lips. Jake's heart skipped a beat as their eyes met in the growing darkness. He wasn't used to such intimate moments, and he felt suddenly flustered.
He looked away, clearing his throat and willing his heart to slow down. But he couldn't help sneaking back at them, a myriad of emotions swirling in his eyes as he attempted to hide his feelings behind his usual calm facade.
"Nothing," he said, hoping his voice didn't betray the conflicting emotions.
"Doesn't seem like nothing," Y/N teased lightly.
Jake huffed, his usual defenses rising, but they crumbled just as quickly. He exhaled, leaning forward with his elbows on his knees. "You ever feel like you're not sure what you're doing? Like everything's just… too much?"
Y/N's expression softened. "All the time," they said. "But I think that's part of life. Figuring things out as you go?"
Jake was quiet for a moment, pondering their words. "Maybe," he said finally. "But it'd be nice to have a damn map sometimes, you know? To know where this all leads instead of stumbling in the dark."
"True," Y/N admitted. "But it's easier when you're not doing it alone."
Their words hung in the air, and Jake's heart thudded. Alone. That word had defined him for so long; it was like a second skin. But now, sitting here with Y/N, it didn't feel as inevitable as it once had.
Jake hesitated, then looked at them again, his dark eyes meeting theirs. "You're not like the others," he said quietly.
Y/N tilted their head. "What do you mean?" Jake shifted on the bench, struggling to put his thoughts into words. The emotions stirring inside him were foreign, intimidating even. But he couldn't deny the pull he felt towards them, like a compass pointing north.
"You see me," he said, his voice hoarse. "You actually... listen. You don't look at me like others do. Like I'm some freak or something to avoid."
Y/N frowned. "You're not a freak, Jake. You're just… you. And I think that's pretty great."
Jake stared at them, the unfamiliar wave of emotions surging through him like a flood. No one had ever said words like that to him before, and they seemed to break down the walls around his heart brick by brick.
His breath caught in his throat. "I don't get you," he said, shaking his head with a small, self-deprecating laugh. "Why are you even talking to me?"
Y/N's smile widened, their gaze unwavering. "Because I want to."
For a moment, the world felt impossibly still. Jake glanced down at their hands, so close on the bench. The urge to reach out returned stronger this time. His heart thundered in his chest, adrenaline and anxiety mixing as he finally made a decision. With a shaky exhale, he unclenched his fist and hesitantly inched his hand closer to Y/N's, brushing his fingers against theirs. It was tentative and uncertain, but he didn't pull away.
Y/N glanced down at the contact, then back up at him, their eyes softening. They shifted slightly, letting their hand rest against his.
The moment their fingers intertwined, it was like a shockwave of electricity. Jake's heart hammered in his chest, and he fought back a sharp inhale.
The connection was strange yet incredibly comforting. The smoothness of Y/N's skin against his roughened knuckles and how their fingers slotted perfectly with his was all so foreign, yet so... right.
Jake swallowed hard, his voice barely audible. "Is this… okay?"
Y/N smiled, their fingers curling gently around his. "Yeah," they said softly. "It's more than okay." Jake was quiet momentarily, his mind struggling to process the unfamiliar feeling of someone willingly choosing to be close to him.
But the feel of their hand in his, their thumb tracing gentle patterns over his knuckles, soothed his racing heart and made his worries melt away.
With a soft exhale, he tightened his grip on their hand, a small act of reassurance that he didn't want this moment to end.
As they sat there in the quiet of the evening, their hands intertwined, Jake felt a flicker of something he hadn't felt in years: hope.
And for once, he didn't fight it.
The next day, Jake found himself at his locker, the previous night's events replaying in his mind like a movie he couldn't pause.
His fingers absently turned the combination lock as he looked around. Students were milling around, chatting, laughing, and minding their business. And like always, no one paid Jake any attention, too occupied with their social circles.
He had nearly forgotten how invisible he was... until a figure appeared at his side. Jake glanced sideways, his heart beating when he saw Y/N standing there. They had that same easy smile that had somehow managed to crack through his walls.
"Hey," Y/N said casually, leaning against the lockers as if this was the most natural thing in the world. Jake was momentarily stunned, caught off guard by their unexpected appearance. He recovered quickly, feigning nonchalance.
"Hey," he replied, closing his locker and leaning against it, mirroring their pose. He tried to keep his voice casual, but a slight flicker of surprise still flickered in his eyes. "You, uh, need something?"
"You're not avoiding me, are you?" Y/N asked, their tone playful but with a hint of genuine curiosity. Jake's lips twitched into a small, almost smile. "And what if I was?" he shot back, trying to keep up his calm exterior.
But he couldn't help the way his heart thumped a little faster in his chest at their question, a mix of uncertainty and anticipation stirring inside him.
Y/N laughed softly. "Well, here I am. Figured I'd check on you after last night." Jake's gaze softened slightly, an unexpected flutter of something like affection stirring in his chest. But he pushed it down, hiding it behind a casual shrug.
"I'm fine," he said, his voice nonchalant. "Just... thinking." Y/N raised an eyebrow. "Jake, you were borderline philosophical last night. I just wanted to ensure you didn't regret talking to me."
Jake exhaled a laugh, his usual cynicism seeping into his tone. But he couldn't deny the way their concern made him feel strange. Good, but odd.
"Regret talking to you?" he echoed, a hint of incredulity in his voice. "Why would I regret that, huh?" Y/N shrugged, their eyes searching his. "Some people push others away when they get too close. I thought maybe…" They trailed off, looking almost shy.
Jake shifted against the lockers, his casual facade faltering momentarily as he processed their words. He hadn't expected them to be so perceptive, to see through his usual defenses so easily. It was like they had a direct line to the vulnerable parts of him, which he kept hidden.
He swallowed hard, torn between pushing them away and pulling them closer. "I'm not used to people sticking around," he admitted, his gaze falling to the floor.
"Well," Y/N said, their voice warm, "you're gonna have to get used to it."
Jake huffed, a mixture of surprise and disbelief crossing his face. He'd never thought someone could be this stubborn about wanting to be in his life. The thought both annoyed and comforted him. "You're impossible, you know that?" he said, the hint of a smile tugging at his lips.
The day passed in a blur, with Jake becoming more distracted than usual. Whenever he saw Y/N in the hallway, across the cafeteria, or even a fleeting glimpse through the classroom window, he felt a strange sense of grounding, like the world wasn't quite as heavy when they were nearby.
By the time the final bell rang, Jake was mentally exhausted from processing his emotions. He was heading toward the school gates when he heard Y/N's voice calling out.
"Jake! Wait up!"
Jake halted, schooling his features into a neutral expression as he turned around. But his heart gave him away, fluttering a little too fast for comfort as he watched Y/N approach. "What's up?" he said casually, shoving his hands into his pockets.
"Thought we could walk home together again," Y/N said with a grin. Jake paused, a thousand conflicting thoughts running through his head, walking home together... again. Like the night before hadn't been a one-time deal.
"You sure you want to be seen with me?" he asked a hint of sardonic humor in his tone. Y/N rolled their eyes. "Oh, please. Like I care what anyone thinks."
Jake chuckled, a genuine laugh this time. He was baffled by how they could be so unflinchingly confident yet also so caring. He shook his head slightly, gesturing for them to lead the way.
"Then lead the way, fearless one," he teased, stepping alongside them.
As they walked, their conversation was lighter this time, peppered with jokes and sarcastic remarks. Jake found himself laughing—a real, unguarded laugh that felt foreign yet welcome.
But as they reached the park again, their mood shifted slightly. They slowed their pace, and the quiet of the evening settled around them.
"Can I ask you something?" Y/N said, their voice hesitant. The change in tone was subtle, but Jake picked up on it immediately. His guard went up a fraction, his shoulders tensing slightly as he looked over at them.
"Depends on the question," he said quietly, bracing himself for whatever was coming next.
"Why do you always keep people at arm's length?" Jake paused, the question hitting a nerve he hadn't expected. He should've known they would see through his usual aloof exterior. Jake exhaled sharply, his eyes fixed straight ahead, his jaw tightening. "It's easier that way," he said finally.
"Easier?" Y/N repeated, their tone gentle but probing. Jake clenched his jaw, the words coming out reluctantly. "Yeah. Easier. If you don't let people get too close, you don't have to worry about them leaving or hurting you. It's just..."
He swallowed, his voice growing a little hoarse. "It's just safer that way."
Y/N stopped walking, and Jake realized too late that they weren't beside him. He turned to see them standing a few steps behind, their expression unreadable.
"Jake," they said softly, "not everyone will leave. Some people want to stay. You just have to let them."
Jake's eyes narrowed slightly, his chest constricting with an unfamiliar feeling. No one had ever challenged him this way, with such sincerity and determination.
"And how do you know that?" he snapped, his voice tinged with a hint of desperation. Y/N reached out, gently touching his arm. "You don't have to do anything to deserve kindness, Jake. You just have to accept it."
Jake exhaled shakily, his body stiffening at the contact. He hated how much their words affected him and shook the foundations he'd built to protect himself.
"Kindness is bullshit," he said, his voice bitter. "People say they care, act like they care, and leave anyway. Everyone does."
Y/N didn't flinch at Jake's harsh words. Instead, they stayed close, their hand lingering on his arm like an anchor. "I'm not everyone, Jake," they said firmly. "I know you don't trust easily, and I'm not asking you to. But maybe… maybe you can start with me."
Jake clenched his jaw, his heart doing strange things as he heard Y/N's words. His mind was screaming at him to push them away, to shut down his feelings and return to his usual cold demeanor. But something about their eyes, unwavering and honest, made him hesitate.
"Why?" he finally croaked out, his voice raw. "Why do you care so damn much?" Y/N smiled, their expression soft. "Maybe I'm just as messed up as you are," they said teasingly. Jake's face hardened momentarily, old habits rearing their ugly heads. He was used to being seen as a freak, a loner… an outcast. But Y/N's teasing carried none of the usual disdain. It was almost affectionate.
"Yeah, you must be," he muttered, a hint of sarcasm in his voice, but his expression betrayed the slight softening around his eyes. "Only a truly messed up person would spend their time with me."
"Come on," Y/N said suddenly, stepping back. Jake blinked, confusion crossing his face as Y/N stepped away. He was about to ask what was happening when they began backing up. "Where are you going?" he said warily, watching them with a slight frown.
"My house," Y/N said casually. "It's not far. My parents aren't home, and I've got some stuff I want to show you." Jake raised an eyebrow, unsure of what to think. Spending time in someone's house and meeting their parents was like normal teenagers' stuff; it was a world in which he was sorely inexperienced. "Why?" he asked, trying to sound disinterested, but his curiosity was piqued.
Y/N shrugged. "Because I want to. Unless you're scared?"
Scared? The word hit a nerve. Jake's eyes immediately narrowed, annoyance and defensiveness flashing across his face. "Scared? Of course, I'm not scared," he retorted.
The mere suggestion of him being afraid was ridiculous. And yet... he couldn't deny the slight flutter of nerves in his stomach.
"Lead the way," he said gruffly, stuffing his hands into his pockets.
The walk to Y/N's house was quiet, the air between them heavy with unspoken thoughts. When they finally arrived, Jake hesitated at the door, suddenly unsure of himself.
Y/N noticed and smiled reassuringly. "Relax. It's just a house, not a trap." Jake forced his shoulders to relax but couldn't shake off his unease. He followed Y/N inside, taking in the neat, middle-class home that was so different from his chaotic household. Seeing a place where someone took care of their surroundings was foreign to him.
He silently followed Y/N through the hallway, unsure what to expect next.
"Make yourself comfortable," Y/N said, tossing their bag onto a chair. "I'll grab us something to drink."
Jake stood awkwardly in the living room, looking like a fish out of water in this new environment. He watched as Y/N disappeared into the kitchen, his tension growing with every second of being left alone in this foreign territory.
He took a few steps, his eyes roaming the room. The furniture was clean, and the walls were adorned with family photos. It was all so normal. It made his stomach twist in an unfamiliar way.
Y/N returned with two glasses of soda and handed one to him. "Come on," they said, leading him to the couch. Jake took the soda, his fingers brushing against Y/N's momentarily. The casual contact sent a strange shiver through him, a feeling he was not used to. He followed them to the couch, trying to keep up his usual apathetic veneer as he sat down.
He took a slow sip of his drink, his eyes fixed on the carpet, avoiding their gaze.
"So," Y/N said, setting their glass on the coffee table. "You like music, right?" Jake looked up, surprised at the random question. But he nodded, a flicker of interest behind his guarded expression.
"Yeah... I guess," he said, trying to sound casual. "Why do you ask?"
Y/N grinned. "Good. Because I've got something I think you'll like."
They grabbed their phone and connected it to a small speaker. Moments later, a hauntingly beautiful melody filled the room—a song Jake recognized but hadn't heard in years.
He couldn't help but be drawn in, the music wrapping around him like a familiar embrace. "Where did you... How did you know I like this?" he managed to mumble, the words catching in his throat. Y/N shrugged, their gaze soft. "I pay attention."
Jake swallowed hard, the simple statement surprising him more than he cared to admit. No one had ever paid this much attention to him, not even his parents. It was terrifying and comforting all at once.
He took another sip of his soda to cover up his emotions. But he couldn't take his eyes off Y/N; the music and their presence created an intoxicating mix.
Without thinking, he reached out, his fingers brushing against theirs. Y/N looked at him. Slowly, they turned their hand, letting their fingers intertwine with his. "This is okay, right?" Jake asked, his voice trembling slightly. Y/N nodded, their smile soft.
Jake swallowed hard, his heart pounding as he leaned in slightly. "I… I don't know how to do this," he admitted.
"Do what?" Y/N asked gently. Jake exhaled shaky, his hand still clutching Y/N's tightly. Their presence made him feel vulnerable and raw, and he hated it as much as he craved it.
"This," he said hoarsely, gesturing between them with a jerk of his head. "This… emotional stuff. Feeling things. It's…"
He paused, his voice faltering for a moment before he continued.
"It's not exactly my forte." Y/N reached up, their fingers brushing against his cheek. "You don't have to be good at it," they said. "Just… one step at a time." Jake flinched at first, unaccustomed to such tenderness. But then he leaned into their touch, his eyes fluttering shut momentarily. Their gesture felt like a lifeline, a lifeline he desperately craved.
"One step at a time," he echoed softly, repeating the words like a mantra. His fingers tightened around theirs, his heart thudding against his ribcage as if trying to break free.
When he opened his eyes, Y/N was closer, their gaze steady and unwavering. Slowly, cautiously, Jake leaned in, their foreheads touching as they shared a quiet moment of understanding.
And then, like the softest note in a song, their lips met—a tentative, gentle kiss that held a world of unspoken promises.
Jake's eyes widened in surprise, his body tensing momentarily as a rush of emotions flooded his senses. It was unlike anything he had ever experienced before. Y/N's lips were soft and warm, moving against his with a gentle curiosity that sent shivers down his spine. He could taste the sweetness of their breath, and it was like a jolt of electricity, awakening something deep within him.
As the kiss deepened, Jake's initial surprise gave way to a sense of comfort and safety. He had always prided himself on his individuality, his emo aesthetic a shield against the world's expectations. But with Y/N, he felt no need to put up barriers. Their kiss was a gentle exploration, free from judgment or pressure. He could feel their hands resting on his chest, and it was as if they were anchoring him, grounding him in a way he had never experienced before.
Y/N's touch was tender and hesitant as if they feared breaking something precious. Their fingers traced the outline of Jake's black hoodie, the thumbholes providing a subtle yet comforting grip. As they explored his body, Jake felt a warmth spreading through him, melting away the cold exterior he often presented to the world.
The kiss lingered, each moment stretching into eternity. Jake's mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and sensations. He had never felt this way before, and it was both thrilling and terrifying. Y/N's lips were like a gateway to a new world where he could be vulnerable and open without fear of rejection. He wanted to lose himself in this feeling, to forget about the outside world and the expectations that came with his emo persona.
Breaking the kiss, Y/N pulled back slightly, their cheeks flushed and their eyes sparkling with a mix of shyness and excitement. "Wow," they whispered, their voice soft and breathy. "I've never..."
Jake smiled, his dark eyes softening as he looked at Y/N with a newfound intensity. "Me neither," he replied, his voice raspy with emotion. "But I want to." He leaned in again, his lips brushing against Y/N's cheek, then their jaw, leaving a tingling sensation in their wake. "I want to explore this with you if you let me."
Y/N's eyes widened, and a smile broke across their face, lighting up the room. "I'd like that," they said, their voice gaining confidence.
Jake nodded, his black hair falling into his eyes, and leaned forward to capture Y/N's lips again. This time, the kiss was more confident, driven by their unspoken connection.
Jake's hands roamed freely, exploring Y/N's body with a newfound curiosity. He traced the curves of their back, feeling the softness of their skin beneath his fingertips. His hands traveled down, cupping their full breasts through the fabric of their oversized sweater. Y/N let out a soft moan, a sound that sent a jolt of pleasure through Jake's body.
"You're so beautiful," he murmured against their lips, his voice hoarse with desire. "I want to see all of you."
Y/N's cheeks flushed a deeper shade of pink, but they nodded, their eyes never leaving Jake's. They removed their clothes with slow, deliberate movements, revealing their plump, curvy figure. Jake's breath caught in his throat as he took in the sight of Y/N's naked form, their skin glowing softly in the dim light of the room.
With gentle fingers, he traced the outline of their breasts, teasing the sensitive peaks until Y/N squirmed with pleasure.
"You're so responsive," Jake whispered, his breath hot against their skin. "I love how you react to my touch."
Y/N let out a soft laugh, a mix of nervousness and delight. "I can't help it," they said breathlessly. "You make me feel things I've never felt before."
Jake smiled, his eyes glinting with mischief. "I aim to please," he said, his voice low and seductive.
Y/N's hands, guided by Jake's, began to explore his body, their fingers tracing the contours of his chest and stomach. They were tentative at first, but as Jake encouraged them with soft moans and words of guidance, their touch became more confident. They unbuttoned his tight black jeans, revealing the bulge in his boxers, and Jake couldn't help but let out a soft groan of anticipation.
"You're so hard," Y/N whispered, their eyes wide with curiosity. "Can I...?"
Jake nodded, his breath coming in short gasps. "Please," he managed to say, his voice thick with desire.
Y/N's hand, guided by Jake's, wrapped around his length, and he shuddered at the touch. Their strokes were slow and gentle initially, but as Jake encouraged them, their grip tightened, and the pace quickened. He couldn't help but thrust his hips forward, seeking more of their touch.
"That's it," he groaned, his head falling back as pleasure coursed through him. "You're so good at this."
Y/N's eyes sparkled with a mix of satisfaction and surprise. "I want to make you feel good," they said, their voice determined. "I want to make you come."
Jake's heart raced at the thought, and he couldn't help but thrust into their hand, seeking release. "Yes," he hissed, his body coiled with tension. "I'm close."
Y/N's strokes became more urgent, their hand moving faster, driven by Jake's encouragement and their own growing desire to please him. As he felt the coil of pleasure tightens within him, Jake reached down, guiding Y/N's hand away.
"Not yet," he panted, his eyes never leaving Y/N's. "I want to come with you."
Y/N's eyes widened, and a look of determination crossed their face. "Show me how," they said, their voice husky with need.
Jake smiled, his eyes dark with desire. "I will," he promised, his voice hoarse. "But first, I want to taste you."
With that, he guided Y/N back onto the couch, their naked bodies pressing together, skin against skin. He kissed his way down their body, pausing to pay homage to their breasts, suckling and teasing their sensitive peaks until Y/N was squirming with need. Then, he continued his journey south, his hands and mouth exploring every inch of their soft, squishy stomach until he reached the apex of their thighs.
Y/N let out a soft cry as Jake's tongue teased their clit, circling and flicking the sensitive bud until they were writhing beneath him. He took his time, savoring their taste, their scent, and the sounds of their pleasure. He wanted to memorize every inch of their body, to know what made them moan and writhe with desire.
"Oh, Jake," Y/N gasped, their hands tangling in his black hair. "I'm so close."
Jake smiled against their skin, his eyes closed in concentration. "Not yet," he murmured, his breath hot against their most sensitive spot. "I want us to come together."
With that, he positioned himself between their thighs, his length pressing against their entrance. He looked into Y/N's eyes, seeking permission, and they nodded, their lips parting in a silent plea. Slowly, he pushed inside, feeling the warmth of their body envelop him.
"Oh my," Y/N breathed, their eyes fluttering shut as they adjusted to the sensation.
Jake began to move, his thrusts slow and deliberate at first, but as Y/N's moans filled the room, he picked up the pace. He wanted to give them everything, to show them the depths of his desire. He thrust harder, his body slick with sweat, his muscles straining as he sought to bring them both to the brink of ecstasy.
"Jake," Y/N cried out, their hands gripping his shoulders, their nails digging into his skin. "I'm close, I'm so close."
"Me too," he grunted, his voice raw with effort. "Together, Y/N. Come with me."
As if on cue, their bodies tensed, pleasure building to an unbearable peak. Y/N's walls clenched around him, and Jake felt himself teetering on the edge. With one final, powerful thrust, they both cried out, their voices mingling in a symphony of pleasure as they came, their bodies trembling in the aftermath.
Jake collapsed onto Y/N, his breath ragged, his heart pounding in his chest. He felt Y/N's arms wrap around him, pulling him close, and he buried his face in the crook of their neck, inhaling their scent, feeling their heart beat against his.
"That was..." Y/N began; their voice was soft and dreamy.
"Incredible," Jake finished, his lips brushing against their skin. "I've never felt anything like that before."
Y/N smiled, their eyes sparkling with happiness. "Me neither," they said, snuggling closer.
Jake held them tighter, his heart swelling with a mix of emotions. He had always felt like an outsider, but with Y/N, he felt a sense of belonging he had never known before. Their kiss, their touch, and the intimacy they had shared opened a new world where he could be himself without fear or judgment.
As they lay there, entangled in each other's arms, Jake knew this was just the beginning. He had found a kindred spirit in Y/N, and he couldn't wait to explore the depths of their emotional and physical connection.