Stina I Love You, You Have Cured Me 🥰🤍❤️

safe to say i’m terrified for what’s about to come

i love being an arsenal supporter ❤️🤍

Stargirl | matildas x original character fic [part twenty two]

Words; 1.5k

Pairings; matildas team x astrid taylor (OC), kyra cooney cross x astrid taylor (OC)

Warnings; swearing

masterlist

After 2 days off in Melbourne and a quick flight to Sydney, the team were officially heading into training camp for the 2023 Fifa Women’s World Cup. The first game of the entire tournament being theirs meant alot to the girls, kicking it off on home soil and starting their journey to hopefully take the trophy in front of a home crowd.

Astrid could never have imagined she would be standing here amongst some of the best players in the world, and the people who had become her family. 

The training ahead of the game was tough and tiring but all while sticking their heads down and focusing, they still knew how to have fun and enjoy this tournament as best they could. The girls made Tiktoks and other content for social media to show the fans everything that went on behind the games and get them hyped up for the opening match. 

The morning of the Ireland game Astrid became very quiet, unusually silent and disengaged from the group. The night before she had woken up many times from nightmares that vocalised all her deep down fears about the upcoming games; That she wasn’t worthy enough for the team, she couldn’t score a single goal and the team hated her for it, that she really was just a young naive girl who didn’t have the skills to solidify her place on the squad. The worst one being her parents looking down on her in disappointment for mess ups and missed shots in every game. 

Astrid was thankful that for the tournament they got their own rooms, meaning she didn’t wake someone else up everytime she shot up in bed, gasping for air between her sobs. She wouldn’t dare tell anyone what happened and explain why she was so quiet any more than saying she was focused on the match that night. A lot of those who asked simply dropped their questions after that, but Charli and Kyra were still hung up on her behaviour even hours after greeting her that morning. 

They eventually arrived at the stadium and the team's energy shifted. Everyone was switched onto the game and the tournament ahead of them. Astrid was feeling very nervous and uneasy heading into the game, but still tried her best to push past those feelings and get into the zone. 

She hadn’t been chosen for the starting eleven but was promised minutes in the second half by Tony which was all she could ask for as a young and less experienced player on the squad. Astrid noted the energy in the stadium as she walked out with the other subs, it was the most amount of support she had felt yet and the game hadn’t even started. 

It was a very tough first half, both teams fighting hard and slightly dirty but it proved how much the game meant to every single person out on the pitch. A 0-0 scoreline at half time only pushed the girls to work even harder and stronger in the second half and get some points for a lead in the group stages. 

Tony had listed when the subs were going to be made for the second half and Astrid was marked for the 75 minute mark to bring out fresh legs and her super-sub reputation once again.

The roar from the crowd when Steph made that penalty shot as captain on home soil was something Astrid had never heard before. The girls on the side jumped up and down in joy as they watched the girls on the pitch celebrate Steph with the crowd. 

Astrid had a fire burning in her belly to push further ahead and safely secure the win in the group stage as she stood on the sidelines, waiting for Cortnee to swap out with her. She ran on and high-fived the girls as she passed them, taking her spot on the left corner as Mary shifted into the middle.

Astrid hadn’t had the chance to get much of a touch onto the ball for the first 10 minutes, but it eventually made its way to the left side of the pitch and onto the feet of Steph. Astrid didn’t have a plan of how she wanted to score but she subconsciously made her way to where she knew she could catch it, somewhere her and Steph had made a connection many times in training this week. 

Her mind went quiet as she saw the ball rolling over to her feet, taking off running with it and trusting her team to keep the opposition away from her as she attempted a risky shot. Although Astrid was known for tapping it in from close distance, there was the odd time she had been able to make it from further out. This was one of those times. 

Her left foot planted itself in the ground, angling towards the goal as her right foot swung hard and booted the ball up into the air. The crowd went silent as they watched it spin in the air, everyone including Astrid hoping she had planned it well enough to catch the inside corner of the net and not pass over it. 

It felt like slow motion for Astrid as she watched it pass by Brosnan’s outstretched fingertips and landing in the white net behind her. The Australian crowd erupted once again with cheers and screams as Astrid began running down the length of the pitch towards Steph. Her smile was wide and her arms reached up to the sky, hands forming a heart shape as she looked up towards the sky. 

She looked back down and saw Steph waiting for her with open arms, Astrid jumping into them and holding onto Steph tight. The rest of the girls had followed behind, cheering for their shooting star before dogpiling her and Steph. She was encased with love and pride by her family as their supporters celebrated in the stands with them. 

They released and placed plenty of head pats onto Astrid, Steph placing a kiss to her hair before leaving her with just Kyra lingering to walk back to their places together. 

“That was fucking insane.” Kyra whispered into her ear, pulling the forward closer as they walked. “I love you.” Astrid whipped her head up with speed, staring at Kyra before she jogged off to her place in the midfield leaving Astrid to quickly run back to her place with a slightly dropped jaw.  

The rest of the game played out resulting in a 2-0 win to the Matildas thanks to Steph and Astrid, the crowd once again cheering when the whistle blew and the rest of the squad making their way out to the field, congratulating the Irish team before celebrating with their own. 

“I’m so proud of you!” Astrid felt a body jump onto her back, wrapping her legs around her waist out of instinct before turning her head to see Charli’s smiley face like suspected. 

“Thanks, Cha Cha.” Astrid smiled awkwardly up at her before she began walking to find Courtney and Kyra on the other side of the pitch, Charli still high up on her back. 

“There she is, star of the show.” Courtney began clapping as Astrid and Charli began falling into view of herself and Kyra. Charli jumped down and they all embraced in a group hug.

“Hey Stargirl.” Astrid lifted her head from the closed circle of giggles and turned to find Caitlin walking over to her with someone in a green jersey. “This is Katie.” 

“Holy shit.” Astrid cursed softly as she realised Katie McCabe, one of her idols, was standing one metre in front of her. “Hi, it’s nice to meet you.” She held her hand out awkwardly for a handshake but Katie surprised her by bringing Astrid in for a hug instead. Safe to say she was kind of freaking out but trying to keep her cool. 

“That goal was impressive, nice to see you’ve got a long range shot in ya too.” Katie remarked as they stepped away from each other. Astrid smiled and nodded her head in acknowledgement. 

“Thanks, means a lot.” Astrid spoke again towards Katie, but she could feel her friends behind her snickering with Caitlin not so silently. 

“Of course. I hear you’re a big Arsenal fan.” Katie comments and Astrid nods her head silently. “Well, let’s just say I hope to play with you and not against you one day.” Katie smiles before saying goodbye to the group and walking off. 

“Okay fangirl.” Charli teases after making sure Katie was far enough away. 

“Shut the fuck up.” Astrid rolls her eyes and begins to walk to where the team and staff had begun gathering for post match talks. 

“Watch your mouth young lady.” Caitlin calls out from behind her with the other girls. Astrid contemplates flipping them the bird but too many cameras and eyes looking at her so she reminds herself to do it later. 

to be continued...

Stargirl | matildas x original character fic [part nine]

Words; 2.9k

Pairings; matildas team x astrid taylor (OC)

Warnings; swearing, mentions of injury (no blood)

A/N; i kinda forgot to upload this earlier sorry

masterlist

Astrid was diligent with the slow and gentle rehab she had been doing, wanting to be better for the next Matildas camp only a month away now. It had been just over two weeks and she had been advised four to six for total recovery, but she was itching to be part of that squad against Canada, even if she only got a few minutes of playing time. 

She worked with the physios everyday to bring her strength back up in her ankle, eventually being able to walk around without the boot after three weeks and Astrid felt good. Without there being any tears or extreme damage to the tendons or ligaments, the time frame had just been an extra precaution because of her high intensity exercise and sport, wanting it to heal undisturbed as much as it could before she jumped back into football. 

By the time this next international call up was here Astrid had just begun jogging again on the pitch, passing the ball between her feet and it was like she was a different person than she had been for the past 6 weeks. She had formed a new appreciation for being able to play at the level she was and getting to do it with her best friends at a club that motivated her. 

The time had come and Astrid had never been more excited to go on a camp, the senior players who hadn’t been there for the last camp returning, the squad back together again to play against Canada. They had all made sure to check in on Astrid after hearing about or seeing her injury, encouraging her to keep going and get back onto that pitch, knowing how useful her skills are when up against tough opponents. 

The games were in Australia this time, meaning Astrid was finally going home for the first time since moving to Sweden, and her parents promised they would be there to cheer her on at the Sydney game. 

After a long day of travel the sweden squad, plus Mini and Harper, were so happy to be back on aussie soil and head straight to the hotel. The car ride from the hotel was full of chatter, all of the players trying not to fall asleep, aiming to hold on until bedtime. The car pulled up and they started getting out of the car, going and collecting their bags from the boot to take inside. 

They received their room numbers and went to drop their bags off, the rooming changing again and Astrid finding herself rooming with Kyra for the first time. 

“This one's mine.” Astrid placed her backpack on the bed closest to the window. 

“Oh so if someone comes to murder us they can get me first?” Kyra stood in front of the other bed, looking at the distance between the door and where she would be sleeping.

“Not what I was thinking, but sure.” Astrid shrugged with a smile. “Come on, let's go to dinner before they eat all the food.” She walked to the door with her phone and keycard, putting her arm out for Kyra to link her own. They left the room, skipping arm in arm down the hallway to the lifts, laughing as they almost tripped about seven times. 

They found their way to the room that had been turned into the team dining room, being easily directed by the noise coming from the girls in there. When they walked in it seemed they were the last to arrive, not surprising of course, the pair known for being late to things all the time. 

“Look who decided to show up.” The room quieted down as Sam spoke loudly, walking up next to Astrid. 

“Oh Sammy, you know I like to make an entrance.” Astrid smiled at her, parts of the room laughing before they pulled each other in for a hug. 

“How’s the ankle?” Sam asked as they stood together. 

“Yeah a lot better definitely.” Astrid nodded, looking down at her taped ankle. 

“Good.” Sam smiled. “Go and get something to eat, kid, catch up more later.” Sam nodded her head in the direction of the buffet, Astrid turning around, instantly spotting Kyra walking away with a full plate, both laughing as they made eye contact. 

Astrid grabbed some food and went to sit at the table where the “original trio” and Steph sat, slotting between the two Arsenal players. 

“Asteroid!” Mackenzie all but yelled across the table, reaching across for a fist bump which was returned with a smile from Astrid. 

“Hey chicken.” Steph spoke from beside her, Astrid instantly rested her head on Steph’s shoulder. 

“Hey Stephy. How are you?” Astrid moved her head to look up at Steph. 

“I’m good, how you feeling?” Steph squeezed her shoulder. 

“Real good.” She smiled and then began eating, catching up with the other girls on the table, hearing all about their time off and where they spent it. 

The team had a mini bonding night, deciding to put a movie on the projector in the dining room before they all headed off to bed. Those with movie suggestions wrote them down and they were placed into a hat for a random draw. 

“And the winner is…” Sam shuffled her hand around in the hat. “Hannah Montana The Movie?” Her eyebrows furrowed in confusion. 

“YES!” A shout was heard and everyone turned their heads. Astrid had shot up from her seat, very happy her favourite movie had been chosen. 

“Were you not like a baby when this came out?” Caitlin asked the youngest member. 

“I was five.” Astrid calmly spoke. A few gasps came from the room, a lot of the players again shocked at how young she really was compared to them. “Enough with the questions, it’s movie time.” She had taken control of the remote, searching for the movie and pressing play. 

Throughout the movie everyone could hear Astrid singing along, dancing in her seat and even mouthing most of the script, a few of them filming her from behind. Then came the scene in the barn and ‘Hoedown Throwdown’ began to play, Astrid let out a small squeal before standing up at the front of the screen.

She began to do the choreography while facing away from the screen, she had learnt it off by heart from the amount of times she had watched it. Everyone sat in shock as she did the dance with precision, not knowing she had it in her. 

When it was done she took a bow, the group cheered and clapped loudly as she sat back down next to Charli and Kyra. The room went silent again, all paying attention to the rest of the movie. 

“Nice dance moves.” Kyra leant over and whispered to Astrid after a while. Astrid just shook her head and giggled. 

The movie finished and to most people's surprise they enjoyed it, something lighthearted and fun to watch before bed. Most of the girls were very tired after travel, Astrid thought she might be too but I guess the excitement of the movie brought her energy back. 

Everyone began to stand, stretching out their limbs while the credits rolled, all watching Astrid who was still dancing around to the music in front of the screen, singing loudly along to the words. 

The music stopped abruptly and so did Astrid’s dancing. Having enough with the upbeat song and Astrid’s energy, Mackenzie had found the remote and turned off the screen. 

“I wasn’t done.” Astrid whined to the taller girl. 

“Yeah you are, bedtime little one.” She patted Astrid’s head and laughed at her pout and eyeroll. Mackenzie headed for the door, Kyra coming over to push Astrid along and drag her off to their room for bed. 

As per usual, when she was done getting ready for bed, Astrid’s head hit the pillow and she was out like a light, the aftermath of long travel taking control and she fell straight to sleep. 

The next morning after getting ready, Kyra and Astrid headed down to breakfast with a little more energy after having slept a decent amount of hours, ready to begin training with the team. 

The first match was still two days away so they had some time to work with each other after months apart now that everyone had arrived. But playing with people on the same club team definitely helps in creating rhythms and relationships on and off the pitch. 

A quick gym session was first up upon arriving at the stadium, everyone working individually on what they needed to before proper training. Astrid was quick to take control of the music to play over the speakers, waiting to show off the playlist she had accumulated. It did feature a lot of Taylor, Hannah Montana and One Direction but she also added plenty of 2000s, 90s and even 80s songs into the mix for everyone to enjoy. Safe to say everyone was happy with Astrid being the DJ after seeing everyone sing or at least bop along to many of the songs. Maybe she would become the team's newly appointed DJ.

They finished in the gym and moved to the pitch, Astrid chatting with Caitlin while they walked out, catching up more than they did last night and Astrid asking about Arsenal and what it was really like. She parted ways with Caitlin after spotting Charli who was chatting with Kyra, Mini and Alex. She ran over and practically jumped on her, gripping the blonde's shoulders who let out a small scream at the impact. 

“Heyyyyy, Cha Cha.” Astrid peaked her head over Charli's shoulder who shrugged the girl off and began walking away from her with a smirk. “Ruuuude.” Astrid yelled at her as she followed behind to where everyone congregated. 

“Alrighty ladies, you know the drill.” Assistant coach Jens yelled out, indicating it was time to begin their session with a jog to warm up. 

“Ughhhhh, I hate this.” Astrid panted out halfway during the jog. “Can I be done yet?” She yelled as they passed the coaches. 

“Does your ankle hurt?” Jens raised a brow. 

“No.” And she kept going, picking up her pace to make it finish faster. She all but crumbled to the ground once she reached the end of the jog, having not run that much since her injury. 

“You good there?” A body covered the sun that was shining over her eyes. 

“I am now.” She smiled at Kyra who was extending an arm to help her up. 

Jens called them over to where they had now set up the circuit for the drills. Astrid liked this part a lot better than the initial jog, ready to hone in her skills and get back into her rhythm of passes and shooting goals. 

They had gone through their regular training drills before moving to work on separate skills in groups of their field positions. So tragically Astrid and Charli had to part ways, Caitlin dragging a pouting Astrid towards the group of forwards and Charli waving dramatically as she walked backwards to the defenders. 

After weeks of just doing small passes to build back up, Astrid was finally able to begin shooting goals again; the main thing she loved about playing football. One of the coaches would pass a ball to the running player and then they would shoot it in, aiming for a different part of the net each time. The goalkeepers had joined them to practise blocking the goals, Astrid was holding the lead against Sam for how many they could get past Lydia. 

“OHHHHH. Another one! And with the left foot!” Astrid ran with outstretched arms after she slotted another ball past Lydia, bringing her total to 6 and Sam just behind with 5. “She’s back and better than ever, baby.” Astrid circled Sam, the other forwards watching and laughing at her antics. 

“Piss off.” Sam shoved the younger striker away, taking her place to accept the next pass. With bad luck to Sam, Lydia had just tapped it away and then the whistle blew to signal the end of drills.  

“Sucked in, oldie.” Astrid whispered as she skipped away to the sideline.

“Get back here you little shit!” Sam huffed and began chasing the girl with a smile on her face, Astrid panicked and began running. 

“STEPHY! SAVE ME!” Astrid screamed as she approached ,the defender turning her head to see Sam chasing after Astrid. Astrid made it to the vice captain and stood behind her panting, hiding from the other captain. 

“Enough you two.” Steph put on a stern voice and looked between the two players. 

“She called me old.” Sam pleaded, going to speak again but Tony had interrupted her from further down the sideline. 

“Alrighty, scrimmage time.” The team began walking closer to him, taking a drink and breath break. “Sam and Steph, come and select your teams.” He tossed the red bibs to Sam for her team and the yellow to Steph. 

They had chosen their players, taking the defenders, then midfielders and finally their forwards. It was down to the two youngest forwards, Mary and Astrid. Steph got first pick so it was up to her, and knowing the passes Kyra and Astrid can make, it wasn’t hard.

“Astrid, you're with me.” Steph beckoned the girl over to her team, glad that it consisted of herself, Steph, Kyra, Charli, Lydia, Cortnee, Clare W, Mini, Alanna, Princess and Tameka. Sam’s team had Caitlin, Mary, Larissa, Emily Van Egmond, Emily Gielnik, Courtney, Aivi, Macca, Alex and Clare P. 

The game began and Sam’s team took good possession straight away but the defence between Charli, Alanna and Steph was strong. 10 minutes in and Kyra had stolen the ball from Larissa, running with it until she could see Astrid making her way into free space further up the pitch. Kyra booted it into the air, ending at Princess who hit it with her chest towards Astrid, right foot ready to catch it.

The tip of her boot brought it to the ground so she could steady her footing, quickly sending it towards the goal through Mackenzie’s still legs, thinking she was going to send it higher like usual. The net rippled and the young player cheered, running back to her position with a high five to her teammates as she went by. 

Tony blew the whistle to indicate the end of the match. It had ended in a 2-2 draw, everyone going around and high fiving each other. 

“Good game, Astrid.” Sam smiled at the young striker. She wouldn’t admit it outloud but she did think maybe one day she could give her a run for her money, seeing a lot of herself at that age in Astrid.

“You too, Sam.” Astrid gave her hand a shake and a clap on the back as they began to walk to the side for a drink. 

“Alright everyone in.” Tony’s voice carried through the team who began walking over to form a loose huddle, too hot to make it tight. “Well done today, very impressed with everyone’s efforts. Even after not playing altogether for a while you showed that no matter what you are a strong team. Off to recovery and then the day is all yours, I’ll see you tomorrow for match day minus 1.” Tony nodded with a smile. Everyone clapped before they made their way inside and headed straight for the cold pools. 

Astrid was the first one in the pool, loving the cold water from growing up at a beach during the winter, going for swims no matter the weather. Everyone else of course thought she was crazy to enjoy the cold water and her eagerness to get in it. 

The next day at training looked very similar to the day before but the physios had been keeping an eye on Astrid, being so soon off an injury. She felt great, really. It didn’t hurt and her ankle felt strong, continuing to work and train to be a sub for tomorrow's game. 

An early dinner of their usual pre-match pasta night was followed by an early bed for all the players, especially for those who had travelled from overseas all but a few days ago. Everyone bid each other goodnight before retiring to their rooms. 

Kyra had called the shower first, knowing from the previous night how long Astrid really did take on her skincare. Once they were both finished and had set an alarm, they lay in their separate beds, room silent, spare the aircon blowing softly. 

“I think you’ll start tomorrow.” Astrid spoke, turning in her bed to face Kyra’s. 

“Really?” Kyra also shifted, finding Astrid’s eyes in the dark room. 

“Yeah, I mean you’ve been working really hard and I think they can tell.” Astrid smiled softly at the girl. 

“Thank you.” Kyra also smiled even if Astrid couldn’t really see it. “I think Tony will put you on, make use of your ‘super-sub’ reputation again.” Kyra let out a soft laugh. 

“Maybe.” Astrid shrugged under her covers. 

“Definitely. I’m calling it right now.” Kyra turned to lie on her back and look up at the ceiling. 

“Fine. But if you’re wrong, you’re buying me a coffee.” Astrid copied Kyra’s shift in movement. 

“Deal. But if I’m right, you buy me a coffee.” Kyra spoke again. 

“Okay.” Astrid’s voice was barely above a whisper as she felt herself drifting to sleep. “Goodnight, Ky Ky.” She spoke one last time before letting herself fall into the pillow. 

“Goodnight, Stargirl.” Kyra took one last look at Astrid before shutting her eyes and falling asleep herself, a soft smile etched on her face. 

to be continued...

Stargirl | matildas x original character fic [part fourteen]

Words; 2.6k

Pairings; matildas team x astrid taylor (OC)

Warnings; none

A/N; Putting up this fic again on here instead of just on wattpad so get ready for 5 chapters in a row uploaded. This story is so special to me and a real escape from the reality of juggling three jobs and I hope you all enjoy it. Love ya x

masterlist

A few hours later the team were boarding a plane and heading straight to Denmark ahead of their next game. A lot of the girls were tired from the match and the past few days of travelling, except those younger players like Astrid, Charli, Kyra and Courtney who were still somehow on a high. They sat in two rows with Charli and Courtney behind Astrid and Kyra so that they could talk to one another between the seats. 

The chatter between them didn’t last long though as exhaustion finally caught up to the main culprit, Astrid, as she found her head inching closer and closer to Kyra’s shoulder. Kyra was quick to welcome the action and soon found herself falling asleep alongside her for the remainder of the short flight. 

As the flight came to an end, Charli called upon the older girls who were slowly getting up from their seats to witness the sleeping pair. They of course were taking photos and videos of them, admiring their cute positioning, before Steph came forward and attempted to wake them up. Steph was gentle with her approach, tapping on both of their shoulders before calling out to them. 

“Kyra, Astrid, time to get up guys.” Steph spoke softly, letting out a giggle when Astrid only began to nuzzle herself further in Kyra and stayed asleep. Steph tried once more but no luck as the duo didn’t respond again. 

“Okay, my turn.” Mackenzie had gotten up from her seat and gently pushed Steph aside. She had a smirk on her face as she approached the duo, stepping into Charli and Courtney’s now empty row, placing both hands on the tops of their seats from behind.

“Wake up!” The goalkeeper almost screamed as she violently shook their seats, instantly scaring Kyra and Astrid awake at the intense motion. They both let out a small scream as they woke up, gripping onto their seats with racing hearts. The shaking stopped almost instantly as Macca doubled over in laughter at their reactions, the remaining team members also laughing as they watched on. 

Astrid panted while looking around for the culprit and when she spotted Mackenzie almost on the floor whilst laughing, it took everything for her to not jump straight over Kyra and tackle her. But Mackenzie was running for her life down the aisle, getting off the plane fast and avoiding Astrid’s rage. 

“I’m going to kill her.” Astrid muttered to herself while collecting her bags from under the seat, Kyra snickering at her and moving around in silence. 

“Maybe tomorrow after you’ve slept it off.” Steph’s voice came from just ahead, the last one waiting for them to get off the plane. “Let’s go, you two.” She began walking to the exit, Kyra and Astrid walking behind her while yawning. 

The high from winning was back at breakfast the next day after a night of rest, and Astrid was warmly welcomed into the dining room when she finally made her way down. She tried to just collect her breakfast and sit down at the table she normally did but was interrupted by multiple pats on her back or head and everyone continuing to congratulate her on her hat trick yesterday. She made her truce with Mackenzie but still pondered silently on ways to get her back when she least expects it. 

She finally made it to her seat between Charli and Kyra, immediately digging into the food she had been thinking about since she woke up. Astrid managed to eat her breakfast without interruptions, only talking occasionally with the girls at her table before cleaning up her spot and returning to her room. 

She was rummaging through her bags for her training kit when her phone began to vibrate. Reaching in her hoodie pocket to find her mum’s contact lighting up the screen. She moved to sit on her bed before answering the facetime.

“Hi mum!” Astrid smiled at her through the screen. 

“Oh hi my darling. Have I woken you? Is it still too early there?” Joanna asked, worrying she had yet again messed up the time zones. 

“No, I just got back from breakfast.” Astrid reassured her. 

“Oh good. I’m sorry I didn’t call last night after the game, but it was so late here and when we woke up it was the middle of the night for you and…” Joanna rambled. 

“Mum, it’s fine. I knew you would have called sometime today. Besides,we were on the plane within a few hours anyway.” Astrid sat up against the headboard, watching her mother’s face visibly soften at the sight of her daughter. “What did you think of the game?” Astrid always valued her parents' opinion of her performances, knowing their kind words would diminish any anxiety or worry in herself. 

“Oh Astrid!” Joanna exclaimed, Astrid giggling at her reaction. “We have never been so proud of you! You were absolutely incredible my darling.” Joanna beamed for her daughter and her accomplishments. “You should have seen your dad and I last night, on the edge of our seats and off our bums within seconds of all your goals!” They both laughed on either end of the phone.

“I can imagine.” Astrid laughed once more, imagining just what she had described. “Thanks mum.” Her voice fell quieter with a small smile on her face. 

“Dad at work?” She asked. 

“He is, but he promised he would call later when he gets home and hopefully you're not training or anything by then.” Joanna explained and Astrid nodded from her end. 

“Okay, I’ll let him know when I’m finished up for today.” Astrid smiled softly. “I-” She was cut off by the door opening, turning her head to see who it was. 

“Okay, it’s been more than 10 minutes since you said you were getting changed and-” Kyra stormed playfully into the room, stopping when she saw Astrid sitting on the bed, looking up at her and still not dressed in her training gear.

“Say hi to mum while I finish getting ready.” Astrid simply turned the phone in Kyra’s direction, Joanna waving with a smile through the screen. 

“Joanna! How are you?” Kyra snatched the phone and waved excitedly at the woman, Astrid finding her clothes behind her suitcase and heading off to the bathroom to change. 

Through the closed door, Astrid could hear Kyra and Joanna talking to one another about the game and other random things before she exited and silently watched from the doorway. Kyra and Joanna laughed with each other over the phone, Astrid’s heart warming at the interaction. She checked her watch and realised it really was time for them to get going.

“I thought you said I was going to be the one to make us late, now it looks like it’ll be you.” Astrid walked over to sit beside Kyra, falling back into the frame. 

“Well how could I deny a chat with the one and only Joanna Taylor.” Kyra scoffed, turning to smile at Astrid. “But if you insist we must go…” She shrugged her shoulders with a pout. 

“Well, although I don’t mind our reputation of being late,” Astrid raised her eyebrows at Kyra. “I’d rather not prove the girls right and let them go on about it all session for once.” She argued with Kyra who seemed to agree with a slight nod. “Sorry mum, but we do have to go now.” Astrid took her phone back from Kyra’s hands.

“I’ll talk to you later then darling. You girls have a good day and say hi to Charli and Courtney for me please?” Joanna smiled at her daughter and her best friend who now wrapped her arms around Astrid’s neck.

“We will. I love you.” Astrid blew a kiss through the screen, Joanna catching it and placing it on her cheek. 

“I love you too.” They all waved at each other before hanging up. 

“Get off me you monkey!” Astrid laughed as she tried to peel the arms off her but Kyra persisted, gripping tighter while laughing with her. “I’m serious!” Astrid tried to get up off the bed. 

“Carry me.” Kyra stood with Astrid who paused for a second before bending down and waiting for Kyra's legs. 

“You’re so annoying.” Astrid grunted as Kyra was now fully on her back, holding arms tight around her legs to hold her up. “At least open the doors for us then.” Astrid turned her head to look up at her, Kyra nodding in response, reaching forward to pull the front door open and making sure it fell shut as they left. 

They had successfully made it down to the lobby with Kyra still on Astrid’s back, meeting the team who were waiting for them like always. Charli laughed as she saw Astrid beginning to struggle under the weight of Kyra, snapping a quick photo for later purposes. 

“Okay Kyra, seriously get off me or we’re both going down together.” Astrid panted from underneath the older girl. 

“Fine.” Kyra huffed before jumping down and Astrid let out a sigh of relief as she stood up straight and cracked her back. 

“Thank you.” Astrid smiled at her before they both turned their head towards someone clapping their hands at them. 

“You two! Let’s go!” Katrina was the last one standing at the entrance, everyone else now outside waiting on the bus for them.

“Coming mum!” Kyra and Astrid sang out in sync, laughing as they ran to the older woman who was shaking her head and walking out the door. 

Successfully the team made it to their recovery session being held at the Viborg Stadium ahead of their next match, everyone piling inside their gym to complete their recovery individually. 

Astrid spent the whole session singing and dancing more than actually recovering, annoying everyone with her karaoke of Hannah Montana and Taylor Swift, before the coaches told her to get on with her workout or she was in trouble.

Recovery ended the way it always did, with the ice baths/pools. And of course like always Astrid was one of the first in there, teasing everyone who took their time and didn’t embrace the cold like she did. But it came to an end finally and they were all encouraged to go enjoy their free time before the next two days of training ahead of the match against Denmark.

“Who’s up for exploring the city?” Teagan posed the question to everyone once they had returned to the hotel and now congregated in the common room, most people nodding or humming in agreement. Astrid and Kyra looked at each other with the same thought on their minds. 

“Astrid? Kyra?” Charli caught the attention of the girls. “You guys coming?” She asked and they looked at each other once more, silently communicating and Charli stood there waiting. 

“I think we’re going to head off on our own.” Astrid finally spoke. “Kyra owes me lunch.” Kyra nodded at Astrid’s statement, watching Charli’s face fall even further into confusion. 

“I lost a bet, so now I buy her lunch.” Kyra simply stated and stood up waiting for Astrid to follow her. Astrid nodded and stood next to Kyra.

“Alright, guess I’ll see you two later then.” Charli shook herself back to reality and stared at the two people who were famous for bickering, waiting to willingly hang out with one another. “Be safe.” She added as they left. 

“We will.” They called out in sync as they left the hotel, everyone in the room watching on in slight confusion. 

“That was weird right?” Charli spoke into the room, looking at everyone’s faces. 

“Very.” “Yes.” “Let’s hope they don’t kill each other.” Different voices rang out before everyone began laughing and preparing to explore on their own accord as a team. 

The pair walked around the streets close to the hotel for a while, trying to spot a quiet yet decent looking restaurant. 

“How about this one?” Kyra pointed up at the sign, attempting to read the Danish but because she didn’t know any part of the language it didn’t really work. Astrid let out a small laugh and pushed Kyra closer to the entrance. “This one it is then.” She murmured as she pushed the door open for the both of them. 

“Oh thank god.” Astrid silently let out as they opened the menus once they found a table, grateful to find English translations underneath the Danish food listings. 

A server came over to the pair and once he realised they couldn’t understand him, he simply asked them to point out the items they wanted and he scribbled them down quickly. Astrid and Kyra were slightly embarrassed at the situation but quickly began laughing over it. 

They talked on and off while eating about random things that were going on and checking in on one another's families. But they were already around each other so much they didn’t need to constantly fill the silence. 

Kyra stuck to her promise and paid for the whole lunch, both of them thanking the staff before heading out of the restaurant and back onto the streets of Denmark. 

“Oh thank god!” A loud voice came from behind Kyra and Astrid, a familiar pair of arms wrapping around both of their shoulders and slotting themself between them. 

“Jesus Charli.” Astrid sighed, turning her head towards the blonde. “What are you going on about?” Astrid sent a quizzed look to Charli and paused the three of them on the street. 

“You guys spent over an hour together alone and didn’t kill each other.” Charli exaggerated, Kyra and Astrid both rolled their eyes at her comment. “It’s a miracle!” She laughed and removed herself from both girls. 

“Leave em alone Charli.” Mini’s voice piped up from behind them, all three turning to see Harper sitting on her hip and the rest of the team walking close behind them. 

“Harps!” Astrid took long strides to reach them, Harper’s little face lighting up at the sight of Astrid, almost jumping out of her mothers arms and into Astrid’s open ones. 

“Weeee!” Harper squealed and giggled as Astrid carefully swung her around in the air before placing her on her hip, Harper instantly snuggling up against the youngest Matilda. The team began their walk back to the hotel after finding Kyra and Astrid, all feeling a little tired after the late night flight and early morning recovery.

A lot of the team chose to hang out together in the main conference room of the hotel, now that it had become their designated hang out room during free time, either just chilling on their phones or playing games with each other. 

Though Astrid, kyra, Charli and Teagan had taken the task of entertaining Harper so that Mini could take a nap. It was a fun yet hard task to complete, Harper often had a lot of energy and an inability to stick with one activity for too long. 

So like always they started with physical games to tire her out, chasing her around and losing their own energy in the process. Then they moved onto any toys mini had left with them, spending their time playing barbies or dolls and then finally putting on a disney movie they would all enjoy. 

So that's how mini found them all after an hour, fast asleep on couches and bean bags with Inside Out playing over Charli’s laptop, and Harper laying over Astrid’s chest. She thought there was no harm done so she left them there, reminding herself to come back and retrieve them all before dinner. 

to be continued...

Stargirl | matildas x original character fic [part six]

Words; 2.5k

Pairings; matildas team x astrid taylor (OC)

Warnings; none

A/N; same as the sydney FC games I won't be going off real games for the new club, it's just easier to make them up and it's easier to find the tillie's ones to go off.

masterlist

Astrid felt a weight lifted off her as she walked away from the Sydney FC training grounds for the last time. Although she hadn’t been there long, this place had given her an amazing start to her footballing career. She had been able to play the game she loved and continue to succeed at a higher level. But it was time to go. 

The offer they presented her with hadn’t changed and it wasn’t going to work with how she wanted to continue to learn and grow as a player and a person. So here she was, telling them she was officially leaving and moving clubs. The staff said they were sad to see her go, which she appreciated. She felt really bad for leaving the girls she had become close with on the team. She told them shortly after telling the club, sending out a group text since they were all on a break currently before pre-season started again. The influx of goodbyes and well wishes she received warmed her heart and brought up her feelings about leaving again, but it was what was best. 

She had called up Lisa again, telling her what club would be best for her and Lisa was very happy and excited to get things rolling. Lisa was the main point of contact with the club, organising everything official while Astrid worked on packing up her life in Australia and moving across the world. Cortnee had been helping her, though there wasn’t much to pack in her apartment, a lot of her old stuff still back at home, which she was going to go and get before she had to leave next week. 

It had been announced on social media that Astrid was leaving Sydney FC but it had not been shared what Swedish club she was joining, and the response from her fellow Matildas was incredible. They were all so happy for her and how quickly she was advancing as a professional footballer. 

She had just finished her lunch when her phone rang, Tony’s contact appearing on her screen. 

“Hello?” Astrid spoke after answering the call. 

“Astrid! Hello, it’s Tony.” The man called out, happiness evident in his voice. 

“Hi, Tony. How are you?” Astrid moved to sit on her couch. 

“I am very well thank you. And you?” He asked politely. 

“Yeah, I’m good, thank you.” Astrid smiled to herself. 

“Good, good. Now first I wanted to congratulate you on your move to Sweden! I may be a little biassed, but it is a beautiful country and I think you will love it!” Tony’s laughter flowed through the speakers. 

“Thank you, I’m looking forward to it. I think it’ll be really good for me and my career.” Astrid laughed slightly at her coach's excitement. 

“Yes, yes I agree.” He cleared his throat. “Now I was calling you to talk about the upcoming camp next month in June, I’m sure you heard about the games against Spain and Portugal.” Tony waited for Astrid to respond. 

“I did. I think those games will be good for us, looking at next year with the world cup.” She swallowed nervously for what he might say next. 

“Yes definitely. Well I just wanted to let you know that you have been selected for the team for this next camp and we look forward to seeing you next month in Spain.” Tony was smiling on his end as he heard the young player let out a soft sigh of relief. 

“Oh, thank you. Thanks so much Tony.” Astrid was beaming now. “I won’t let you down.” 

“I know you won't, Astrid. You’ve been working exceptionally hard these past few months and it really showed in your performances last camp.” Tony could tell how excited she was, obviously not suspecting to be chosen, which was the opposite to the coaching staff’s opinion. “I can’t wait to see what you’ve got for us when we see you again. Keep working hard and we’ll see you soon.”

“Of course. Thank you, again. See you in Spain.” The call ended and Astrid lept up from her couch, letting out a squeal and doing a little dance around her living room. Although she was officially a part of the Matildas, there could be a time where she didn’t get these calls so it was a big relief when she did.

A week later and her parents were dropping her off at the airport with her life packed up into two suitcases and carry ons; this drop off felt very different to the ones in the past. The whole morning had been emotional for Astrid as they left her family home, driving past all the places she had grown up visiting, playing football and making memories. She knew she would be back one day, but the ticket in her bag said ‘one way’ so that day was very unknown.

Her parents had gone through security with her, wanting to spend as much time together as they could before she boarded her flight and went off to her new home. The hugs goodbye at the gate were long and full of whispered “I love you’s” between Astrid and her parents. Her flight was called and it was time to go. 

She managed to hold in her tears until she got to her business class seat, grateful she was sitting alone and could hide behind a small screen, wiping her eyes before anyone could see her. She was sad to be leaving home and her parents, they had such a strong bond, but this was going to be one of the best decisions of her life, and she knew that. 

The flight to Dubai went quite quickly, considering Astrid slept for the majority of it, it was a red-eye so she expected to fall asleep at some point. The layover was only 2 hours and she spent it rechecking her luggage for the next flight, her parents not trusting it wouldn’t get lost, grabbing some food and walking around the airport until she was boarding the flight to Stockholm Sweden, the closest airport to Hammarby and her new housing. 

This flight, though shorter, felt long without her sleeping it away, getting through a few movies and TV episodes before she finally landed in Sweden. She switched her phone on again as soon as she entered the airport, ready for the influx of messages from her parents checking in on her and from Kyra who was waiting for Astrid at arrivals. She collected her bags quite quickly and made her way to where Kyra and Courtney would be waiting. Charli wanted to be there to welcome her too, but being 5 hours away in Rosengård and having a game that day proved to be a little difficult. But they were going to see each other soon so they didn’t have to wait that long to reunite. 

Astrid could feel Kyra blowing up her phone in her pocket but she couldn’t check it with three bags in her hand and trying to find her way through an airport that was in a language she didn’t understand. She followed the crowds of people and eventually found herself near the exit. 

“ASTRID!” Two loud voices mixed together and stopped Astrid in her tracks, turning her head rapidly to find the point of the noise. She didn’t find it but she did find two girls running straight for her and she let go of her bags to meet them in the middle. The three of them hugged tightly, swaying slightly as they laughed. 

“I can’t believe you’re really here.” Kyra said with a wide smile on her face. 

“I know, me either.” Astrid shook her head, looking between both of her friends, this is where it begins. 

Eventually they picked up her bags and exited the airport to a taxi waiting to take the girls back to Kyra and Courtney’s place. Astrid was staying over for the night until she picked up her keys tomorrow for her place just down the road.

The girls took Astrid sightseeing for the rest of the day to try and keep her awake, she wanted to regulate her body clock as soon as possible and avoid jet lag. They cooked dinner together and spent the evening catching up and watching movies until they all decided to go to bed. 

The next day was spent moving Astrid into her own place, thankful it came furnished and all she had to buy was necessities and decorations. The three of them had exhausted themselves by dinner time and decided just to order in and sat in Astrid’s living room this time before Kyra and Courtney left for the night. Astrid was used to living by herself so she didn’t mind the silence, but it felt very different being in a new country where she didn’t fully understand the language yet. But the club had set up language lessons for her to attend while training so she could understand the basics which she was more than grateful for. 

The day finally came for her to officially sign her contract with Hammarby IF and receive her new kit so she could begin training with the team. She was handed her new jersey, flipping the back to reveal ‘Taylor’ above a massive 13, happy because it was her Matilda’s number but just flipped. And also happy because of the 13 and the fact her last name is Taylor; I mean it was just meant to be. 

She took some photos for social media so the club could officially announce her addition to the team and then got shown around the centre and where she would train with the team. It was beginning to feel a lot more real and she could feel her heart growing with excitement and anticipation for what her time here could look like. 

Safe to say her time at Hammarby was going to be good, and she had only just started. Training was already going great for Astrid, and being with Kyra and Courtney really helped, like having Cortnee at Sydney FC helped her last season. She had already felt her skills improving and it had only been a few days. Astrid was hyper focused while in training, working hard on her passes, taking constant shots at goal from both feet and ramping up her fitness during gym sessions. Astrid felt like she had something to prove here. 

She didn’t though, not to anyone that mattered. Her new coaches were very impressed with her ambition and her teammates were grateful to have her on the team. 

They had their first match since Astrid joined and she didn’t plan on them using her at all, happy to just watch the team flow and play like they had been since the season started. But it was getting close to full time and neither team had yet to score. The coaches had instructed a few of the subs to get warm, that included Astrid. 

After a few minutes she was replacing the current left forward, running onto the pitch and giving Kyra a high five who was further back as the left midfielder. From their matches at training, Kyra and Astrid found that when they were on that left side together they were a pretty good duo, despite not really playing together on the national team yet. Being friends might have helped but they had this connection where they didn’t need to say anything and the passes between them were flawless. And it was working during this game right now. 

Kyra stole the ball from the other team, dribbling it around her matched player and running it down the field. Astrid had seen her coming and ran closer to the box. Kyra struck the ball hard, it flew in the air and landed at Astrid’s feet. She took a few short strides but she had space so she swung her right foot at the ball towards the goal. The goalie had gone for it but it slipped past her fingers as she jumped for it, turning her head as she fell, watching the ball sink into the back net. 

The small home crowd cheered and Astrid ran towards Kyra as soon as she knew it was in. Astrid reached Kyra and jumped onto her, screaming with joy that she had scored for her first time on her new team. The team jumped onto the pair, Kyra holding her tight and shaking her as Astrid erupted in laughter. 

The match ended, Hammarby had won 1-0 and the whole team was ecstatic at their new teammate’s goal that got them the win. Kyra and Courtney were probably the most proud and Astrid couldn’t wipe her smile off her face. 

The team had celebrated in the change rooms for ages before they all showered and decided to go home, tired after the tough game but still buzzing with joy. It seemed as if Charli could sense that they were done because as soon as Kyra, Courtney and Astrid had begun walking home, she was calling her.

“WHOOOOOOO!” Charli screamed as soon as Astrid accepted the facetime, all three girls jumping back at the sudden noise. 

“Oh my god.” Astrid shook her head at Charli. “What a way to start a call.” The youngest girl spoke. 

“Well I’m just super happy for you guys. You should’ve seen me when you scored that goal, Astrid. I was off my couch within seconds screaming at my laptop.” Charli laughed and Astrid smiled. 

“Thank you! That’s so sweet Char.” Astrid pouted at the screen, her head whipping fast to Kyra when the girl took her phone from her. 

“Excuse me, I don’t know if you saw but I actually assisted that soooo…” Kyra teased and Charli just stared at her. Courntey and Astrid laughed beside each other as they walked. 

“Yes I saw. Well done Kyra.” Charli smiled at Kyra, sarcasm hiding in her voice which made Astrid snort, snatching the phone back from Kyra who scoffed. 

“Ugh, I miss you Char, I’m stuck with these losers now.” Astrid rolled her eyes playfully. 

“That’s so rude.” Courtney expressed from beside her. 

“You can get to training on your own now, Asteroid.” Kyra crossed her arms as she walked. Astrid’s jaw dropped and turned around, walking backwards to look her in the eyes. 

“That name is reserved for Macca and Macca only.” Astrid pointed at Kyra. Charli was laughing through the phone and Courtney slapped a hand over her mouth to hide her laughter. 

Astrid’s tough facade eventually cracked and she couldn’t help but smile at the brown eyed girl who was running back up to her, wrapping an arm over her shoulder. 

“I’ll let you guys go and celebrate. I’ll catch up with you later, okay?” Charli’s voice flowed and a smile appeared through the phone. 

“Okay, I’ll call you later today Char.” Astrid nodded at her. “Love you.” Astrid spoke first, Kyra and Courtney shortly behind with the same words. 

“BYEEEEEE” Charli excessively waved through the camera, the other three girls following her actions. The call ended and Astrid put her phone away, adjusting her kit bag strap before holding her arms out ready for Kyra and Courtney to link their arms with hers. They walk arm and arm back to their places, Astrid inviting them to come round later after she’s called her parents so they can have their post match dinner together. 

Astrid was feeling so grateful for how her life here was progressing already. She was with two of her bestfriends, she was improving on her football and she was enjoying her new home. 

to be continued...

Stargirl | matildas x original character fic [part ten]

Words; 3.1k

Pairings; matildas team x astrid taylor (OC)

Warnings; none (that im aware of, if there is something lmk)

A/N; hope you are enjoying these xx

masterlist

The team headed straight to the media room after breakfast for their pre match chat. The team filed into the room, chatting or laughing amongst themselves before sitting down. Once everyone was settled Tony walked up to the projector. 

“Hi. It’s so great to see the team together again.” He smiled brightly at the group. “It’s been more than four months. It’s now putting the national team hat on, right? Remember what we are doing here.”  Everyone focused on what he was saying. “I want to thank you for the patience that you’ve had ‘cause we’ve played the toughest schedule in the history of this program in terms of top-ranked teams this year. And at the same time we introduced 17 debutants.” Kyra nudged Astrid’s shoulder at this, Astrid smiling at the girl beside her.

“So, sometimes the result on the scoreboard might not have been what we wanted it to be. But package everything that we learnt up until now and start getting more consistency, cohesion, chemistry, we got the foundation now.” Everyone dodded along to Tony’s words. 

“323 days. That’s the number of days left until the first game in the world cup.” Tony pointed at the screen which then revealed a ‘46’. “What’s that?” He smirked as the room stayed quiet. 

“Days we’re in camp together?” Astrid spoke softly in the room. Tony nodded while making eye contact with the young player. 

“Days we’re in camp together. About three days per camp goes to travel and recovery. That means 32 days of football together before we announce a roster and come here and prepare for the World Cup.” Tony looked around the room again. Astrid’s heart dropped at the mention of the World Cup, it seemed so far away but it was officially less than a year.  “That’s 11 games. That’s what we got. Before announcing the World Cup roster, 11 games. That means we can’t waste one single minute.” The room was silent with the heaviness of the conversation. 

The team made their way out to the bus to take them to the stadium. Everyone always sat by themselves for the ride to the stadium, playing their own music and getting in game mode. 

Astrid wanted to focus on the game ahead but her mind kept drifting to the earlier mention of next year's FIFA Women’s World Cup on home soil. She knew that if she wanted to be even considered for that 23 roster then she would have to work damn hard at both club level and national level before then, especially because so many senior and regular players were already a shoe in. 

They finally arrived and made their way to the changeroom, putting on their boots and making their way to the pitch for pre-match training. After everyone made their way out, Kyra, Astrid and Charli being the last like always, Jack Sharkley the head sports scientist clapped for everyone to join him. 

“Alrighty, let’s go for a jog shall we?” He looked particularly to Astrid who always had something to say about that first warm up, usually groaning and complaining every time. 

“Let’s go.” Astrid simply said and left everyone shocked. 

“You feeling alright there, kiddo? You didn’t groan or complain.” Sam remarked as she ran alongside Astrid who rolled her eyes at the captain. 

“Piss off.” Astrid laughed and shook her head.

After their warmups, drills and skills practise it came time for Astrid’s favourite part of training; scrimmages. Normally Sam and Steph would have separate teams but today they were on the same one, Astrid taking Caitlin’s usual position who was over on the bikes with Chloe. 

The game began and Sam’s side was taking good control, once again having both Kyra and Astrid together on that right side. 

“Kyra.” Astrid called for the ball, the midfielder sending it directly to Astrid in free space. Astrid kept the ball with her, dancing around the defenders to find Sam in the centre. 

“Good, kid, over here.” Sam yelled praise to the young player, catching the ball from her and heading for the goal. A little while later Steph walked off the field, hurting her hamstring after clearing a corner, very soon after Tameka had come off too.

“We’re a man down. Kyra, drop.” Sam called out after noticing Steph missing from her defender spot. “Astrid, move it back and I’ll come out here.” Astrid and Kyra followed her instructions and the game continued. 

The game wrapped up and everyone was tired and/or sore. 

“We’re dropping like flies here.” Astrid commented softly as she saw a few players with ice packs on muscles and the physios watching with caution. 

“Your ankle holding up?” Charli stood beside her, looking at Astrid who began rolling it around and testing it. 

“Yeah it’s good. Promise.” She looked up at the older girl who was still concerned it wasn’t 100% just yet, but it was feeling better than ever. 

A few short hours later and the game had kicked off at Suncorp Stadium against Canada. 11 minutes in and Canada secured a goal from distance after a free kick. The halftime whistle had blown and the score was 1-0 to Canada and Alanna had come off a few minutes prior with a hamstring injury, Aivi taking her place. 

Play restarted and after some substitutions in the midfield, Tameka and Cortnee coming on with fresh legs, it seemed a little more promising. Astrid was told to get ready to sub in for Emily Van Egmond, shuffling their previous 4-4-2 positioning to a 4-3-3 and have Astrid take that left position alongside Sam and Mary up the front, like they discussed at halftime.

A break in play and Astrid keeps her legs moving as she waits for Emily to come off, the players exchanging a double high five before running to her position at the 78th minute. Play resumed instantly and even with many good shots at goal from so many players, nothing seemed to be working for them. Official full time had ended and 4 minutes of extra time was added.

At 93 minutes the ball had been kept in possession by the Matildas, Gorry stealing it and shooting it over to Kyra on the left wing. Kyra darted with it between the Canadian defence, spotting both Sam and Astrid near the goal but the latter had a lot more free space, sending it over her way. She was at the edge of the box when she caught it, no room to run but could spot a narrow spot between her and the goal. 

She struck with her right foot, aiming for the top right corner and as the ball approached the keeper jumped high, but not high enough. It was close to hitting the bar and missing the shot but as it came in it curved ever so slightly, touching the net, rippling as it stayed in. 

The home crowd was up on their feet, all 25,000 fans erupting in cheers. Astrid took off running to Kyra in the midfield, jumping into her arms screaming, everyone else coming to pile on top. 

And in the 93rd minute Australia equalises with Canada. Number 31 Astrid Taylor in her return to the pitch after an ankle injury last time playing for the Matildas against the Philippines. 18 years old, recently joined the Swedish league and then scored that beautiful goal against Spain a few months ago in that tough friendly. What a return to the game. 

Astrid was beyond happy after the ball fell into that net, finally bringing them equal with Canada. Two minutes later and the final whistle blew, and a draw 1-1 with the Olympic Champions. 

The team was very happy they were able to leave the game with an equal scoreline and very grateful Astrid was able to score that last minute goal. Astrid had been beckoned over for a post-match interview, wiping the sweat from her face before appearing on camera. 

“How was it scoring that goal so close to the end of play?” The producer of their ‘Behind the Matildas’ youtube series asked.

“Yeah it was crazy. I mean I was very much expecting it to bounce off that post or for Sheridan to push it away, but it was a big relief when it did go in.” She laughed softly. “I think at that point a lot of people thought it would end in Canada’s favour, but I knew we had a few more minutes in us. And keeping our spirits up so late in the game can be hard but when you’ve only been on the pitch for like 15 minutes, there’s a little extra fight and determination to turn it around so late.” She smiled at the camera. 

“Thanks.” The filming stopped and the crew nodded at her, indicating she was done. She muttered a quick thanks and walked off to be with her team. 

“You owe me a coffee.” An arm fell onto her shoulder and the voice of Kyra got close to Astrid. 

“Yeah, yeah. I’ll get you one tomorrow.” Astrid rolled her eyes at the older girl, bringing her own arm to rest on Kyra's shoulder as they walked down the tunnel. “But you realise I was also right.” She turned to her with a smirk.

“About what?” Kyra asked, confused to what she was talking about. 

“I told you last night that you would start today. And I was right.” She crossed her arms over her chest. 

“I guess you were then.” Kyra smiled at the younger girl, pulling her into her side as they headed for the change room. 

Only two days later and the team had touched down last night in Sydney for match day-1, currently heading to the newly rebuilt Allianz Stadium for their training session. Astrid’s parents had secured tickets to come see her play in person for the first time since her final Sydney FC game and she could not be more excited to see them again, this now being the longest she’s been away from them.

The team piled into the changeroom and began to get ready for their warm up, all watching as Alanna set up a speaker in the middle of the room, confused as to what the defender may be putting on. 

The intro to ‘My Heart Will Go On’ begins to play and the room erupts in laughter at the song choice. Instantly everyone begins singing along, Alanna beginning a piece of interpretive dance to the song.  

“Once more, you open the door!” Their captain sings into a water bottle in front of the camera. 

“YOU’RE HERE! THERE’S NOTHING I FEAR.” The room sings, the loudest singing now coming from Astrid who was standing on her cubby bench, gesturing with passion to Kyra next to her who was laughing at her antics. 

“Get down child.” Macca yells at Astrid who pouts and jumps down, putting her cleats on as the song dies down and their regular playlist begins to play, Sam dragging the speaker with her as they leave the room to walk to the pitch. 

Training had concluded, Alanna was already ruled out from the last game and now Steph was a worry too, her hamstring issue from the other day still not 100%. 

“Let’s bring it in everyone, staff as well.” Tony called and the team had now assembled into a small circle at the edge of the pitch, some sitting and stretching, others having a drink break after a scrimmage. “Er, have to say, I love what I saw out there today. How you took ownership for your performance, how you communicated. I loved what I saw.” He smiled at the girls. “Let’s show what we’re about tomorrow in that game. And to make sure we have memory from that, let’s get together really quick so Ann can grab a photo of us all in the sun on the pitch. Just a quick picture.” Everyone began standing up and moving to open space on the pitch. 

“Viney, help me please.” Astrid looked up at Cortnee with her arms out. 

“Fine.” The older girl grabbed her hands and pulled her up fast. 

“Thanks.” She put her arm over the forward’s shoulder, walking with her to where the group had gathered, both plopping down to the ground where there was a gap between Lydia and Kyra. “Ooo I get to be next to Kyra!” She placed her head on Kyra’s shoulder with a smile. 

“Alright, everyone in.” Ann shouted to catch everyone's attention. The shutter of cameras going off. “Thankyou.”

“Ann, get in on one.” Tony called out. 

“Run!” Astrid yelled and everyone laughed, cheering Ann on as she ran over to the group quickly. 

“Yes, Ann!” Sam clapped as she slotted in. More photos were taken and as soon as the photographer gave them a thumbs up they all jumped up. 

The next day rolled around quickly and before they knew it, the starting line ups were making their way onto the pitch. The energy in the stadium was crazy, so many people were there to watch the Matildas and you could feel their passion radiating down to the players. 

The game kicked off with Emily Van Egmond and although Canada took possession pretty easily, it didn’t take long until it was back to the Matildas. A magical passing sequence between Cortnee, Sam and Mary and within two and a half minutes Mary had opened the scoring with a magnificent goal. The girls on the pitch and the bench cheered, the crowd was maybe the loudest it’s ever been. 

They went into halftime, up 1-0 and spirits a lot higher than the last game, having a stronger defence and the forwards plenty of shots on target but just falling short or being stopped by Canada’s goalkeeper. 

“Astrid.” Tony called her over as the players made their way to the changerooms for the break, she ran over to him. “Come with me, I’m putting you on for Vine, we need fresh legs.” She simply nodded and followed him to a small room, immediately hopping on a bike to warm up while he spoke about the next half. 

The second half began and Astrid was already on the pitch in the right wing position, ready for the next 45 minutes. It’s not a position she normally plays in but she had to take every chance to be on that pitch and making her mark, especially with World Cup talk looming over their heads.

The whistle blew and they were on. Although the Australian defence was strong it didn’t seem strong enough in those first 10 minutes, Leon scoring two goals within minutes of each other and taking the lead 2-1. Astrid fought hard on that right side, connecting with Charli, Gorry and Mary for shots at goal but again nothing wanted to go in or slot past Sheridan. 

It’s finished here at Allianz Stadium. Matildas 1, Canada 2.

Everyone stood still on the pitch, looking around at the crowd before them, seas of green and gold filling the stands. Astrid was exhausted, that was the longest game she’s played for the Matildas and she could feel it, but she made her rounds and congratulated the opposition and found Kyra, Courtney and Charli. 

“Hey.” Courtney’s voice was soft as she saw Astrid approach them.  

“Hey star.” Charli still managed to smile at her, pulling her into her side with one arm. 

“Hi.” Kyra did the same on the other side, Astrid wrapping her arms around their waists, Courtney tagging on beside Charli. 

“Wanna go find my parents with me?” She looked between them, all silently nodding and beginning to walk together to where friends and family were at the barricades. Her eyes searched for them and they finally landed on 2 of the only people wearing her jersey number. “Mum, dad!” She let go of the girls when she spotted them, waving as she ran to them. 

“Hi my darling.” Her mum, Joanna, looked like she was about to start crying as they hugged over the barrier. “I’m so proud of you.” She whispered into her ear, squeezing her tighter. They let go so she could move and hug her dad.

“Hey sweetie, I’ve missed you.” Her dad, Mark, pulled his daughter close. 

"I've missed you too." She nodded into his shoulder, trying not to cry from both happiness and sadness at being with her parents again. They pulled apart and she turned to the three people standing behind her, waving them to come closer.

"Guys, this is Charli, Courtney and Kyra. The rest of the Sweden Squad." She smiled.

“Thank you for taking care of my girl over there and when you guys are on camp, it means alot to know she’s not alone.” Her mum smiled at the girls whose hearts had swelled up. 

“Of course, she’s our stargirl.” Charli donned her signature smile, pulling Astrid into her side and holding Courtney close to her other side. 

“She’s in completely safe hands.” Kyra added herself onto the other girls, squeezing all of them together. 

“Totally.” Courtney put on her best smile, nodding along.

“I don’t know about that.” Astrid laughed with Charli, Kyra and Courtney’s jaws dropping. 

“We are perfectly responsible adults and we’ve kept you alive so far. Making sure you're fed and watered. So…” Kyra pointed out, Courtney nodding along in agreement.

“I’m not a plant.” Astrid emphasised. 

“I didn’t say you were. But we did take care of you while you were injured.” Kyra argued back, the people surrounding laughed at her and Kyra’s interaction. 

“Alright you two. We better get going before you rip each other's heads off or Tony does for taking too long.” Charli intervened finally, pushing some distance between the pair. 

“It was lovely meeting you ladies, and well done on the game today, you all played wonderfully.” Joanna smiled at the older girls who surrounded her daughter. 

“Love you, mum.” Astrid hugged her again, squeezing her tight. “I’ll talk to you soon okay?” She pulled away and moved over to her dad. 

“You make me so proud. I love you.” Mark reached over the barrier, placing a kiss on her head before they parted. “Go on.” He nodded to where the team was beginning to disappear down the tunnel. 

“Bye.” They all spoke in unison, waving goodbye to the couple, Charli wrapping her arm around Astrid who donned a sad look on her face. 

Astrid was beyond grateful these girls had come into her life, especially while living so far away from her family, they became her family. The rest of the team had become her family too but the Sweden squad was something else, something special. 

to be continued...

Stargirl | matildas x original character fic [part four]

Words; 3.2k

Pairings; matildas team x astrid taylor (OC)

Warnings; swearing, mentions of alcohol

A/N; took me a while to do this one so sorry its a bit late. hopefully you enjoy this, I really like this one. again, please give it some love and hope you like it. also this might have a love interest at some point but i haven't figured it out yet. x

masterlist

The team had now travelled down to Canberra for their second and final match against New Zealand again. Throughout the day they had taken their match day walk, eaten their meals together and prepared for the game, feeling somewhat confident after their last win over the opposing team. 

Astrid was still on a buzz from the last game and the love she had been showered in from her teammates, coaches, parents and especially the fans. Making her debut and scoring a goal in the same game on home soil was something really special and Astrid never thought that she would be doing it so young. She was still only 17 and had accomplished so much. 

She was in a really good mood and the team could tell. She usually had a fun, bubbly personality, constantly making jokes and pulling lighthearted pranks but today she just had an extra aura about her that instantly lightened the mood of everyone on the team. And they knew why. Not only had she been promised some minutes on the pitch this game, but tomorrow was her 18th birthday. Finally, the baby of the team was becoming an adult; legally at least. And she got to celebrate with her new family; her own unable to until she planned to go home for a little while, now that club season was over and the next camp wasn’t until late June.

The rest of the day was spent in focus mode, making sure everyone was warm and ready for what could be another tough game. 

The Matildas were off to a great start, taking possession of the ball and a good few attempts at scoring within the first 14 minutes before a corner from Steph and header from Sam secured their lead on the game. Only two minutes later and a great shot from the edge of the penalty box by Hayley, the ball just skimming past the goalie, had given them that extra leg up on New Zealand. 

A shot from Sam had brought them up to 3-0 before New Zealand secured their first goal in the extra time before the whistle blew for halftime and the substitutes got themselves up to warm up in the break. 

Astrid, Charli and Kyra found themselves chatting about Astrid’s upcoming birthday while practising passes and shots at the goal. 

“Guys it’s not that big of a deal.” Astrid spoke, taking a shot at the net with her right foot, surpassing Teagan’s attempt to block it, sending it right in the back, a small smile at Teagan before turning to the girls with confused expressions on their faces. 

“Not a big deal?” Charli used air quotes, stopping her small passes with Kyra. “First of all it’s your first birthday with the team,” She began counting her fingers as she walked closer to Astrid. “It’s tomorrow,” She counted a second finger.  “AND it’s your 18th. What is wrong with you?” Charli was clearly more passionate about this than Astrid, gripping the younger girl’s shoulder, trying to look stern but failing, letting out that signature smile. 

“I’m with Charli.” Kyra had stepped forward to the pair. Astrid bit her top lip, staying silent, contemplating Charli’s reason. 

“Ugh fine. I guess we could do something,” Astrid finally gave in. “But!” She lifted a finger, Charli and Kyra grinning slightly. “Nothing crazy okay, everyone is about to go back to clubs so they probably want to relax.” Astrid spoke, grunting softly as they engulfed her in a hug after sharing a sneaky smirk with one another. 

The second half of the game had finally started, and even with a few misses at a shot, the Matildas were still doing well. Substitutions had been made for both sides, all the Aus subs continuing to keep warm and moving on the sidelines. It was at the 70th minute that Alanna went down from a head collision, resulting in a broken nose and having to leave the pitch. That led to Charli being subbed on a few minutes later as a defender, happiness from Astrid growing for Charli and worry growing for Alanna as she was taken to the changeroom. 

Again with only 15 minutes until full time, Astrid got to take her place on the pitch, subbing for Caitlin in the left forward position, the coaches hoping her fresh legs might help gain them another goal before the end of the game. And they were right. 

The ball was shot far from Lydia, sending it to the midfield where Sam had collected it, heading for the goal but ran out of space, shooting it over to Astrid who shot it through the goalie’s still legs as she expected a higher shot, and slotted it right in the back of the net. The crowd roared, Astrid ran directly to the midfield where most of the team watched the shot, immediately covering the young girl with their bodies, screaming and yelling at her goal that brought them to 4-1. 

The huddle of players parted, Charli making sure to press a kiss to Astrid’s forehead before they both ran off to their positions again with wide smiles. The final whistle blew and Australia had won against New Zealand again, Astrid fighting the urge to run and celebrate with her friends, instead calmly shaking hands with the opposition and sharing clap hugs with her teammates. 

The team all get to their huddle after a few minutes, happiness running high through them about the successful win, waiting for Tony to begin his speech. 

“You’ve been phenomenal in terms of focus and what you can control. Two good games, two wins. This is the closure of the camp now, so that you can enjoy the time with your families tonight, happy birthday to Astrid for tomorrow. Safe travels. Good luck in your club, okay? Looking forward to see you next camp. Good job, everyone.” He wrapped and everyone disconnected to start clapping. 

Family and friends were invited down onto the pitch, Harper being snatched up by Mini the second she saw her and Astrid slowly moving to approach the mother and daughter. 

“Hi Harper.” Astrid waved at the baby in Mini’s arms. 

“Say hi.” Katrina picked up one of Harper’s arms, waving at the player as a smile grew on the baby’s face. “Good job again today Astrid, nice shot.” Mini looked up at the teen. 

“Thanks Mini. Welcome back officially.” Astrid met the older woman's eyes and smiled. They both turned in the direction of both teams gathering on the pitch around Aivi, all of them moving closer to the huddle, Astrid going to stand with Kyra and Charli like always. 

Aivi was shaving her head today in honour of her brother and donating it in a bid to raise $30,000 for brain tumour research. Everyone cheered on as they watched the brave woman, all running over when it was done, patting and rubbing her bare head as tears sprung in everyone's eyes. 

The next morning Astrid had awoken in her and Charli’s hotel room to most of the team, balloons filling the air, and all the girls screaming happy birthday as soon as her eyes had opened. Her heart pounded against her chest at the fright of seeing at least 20 more people in her room at 9am, screaming in her face.

After letting out a quiet ‘fuck’, Astrid’s next reaction was to crawl back under the sheets feeling surprised, shocked and extremely loved in that very moment that the first thing she thought to do was to hide from it. The room filled with laughter and cheers, watching as Kyra and Charli pulled back the sheets and wrapped their arms around Astrid who was about to cry. 

“Aye, she’s finally an adult like the rest of us. Took long enough.” Macca yelled from in the room, everyone laughing along with her, Astrid just looked her dead in the eye. 

“Does that mean you’ll stop calling me kid?” She cocked her head at the goalkeeper. 

“No.” Mackenzie spoke with a dead face.

“Absolutely not.” Alanna chimed in and everyone shook their heads. Everyone gives Astrid a hug and wishes her another happy birthday before leaving, now just Kyra as the only person out of their assigned room. Kyra and Charli approached Astrid on her bed with presents in each of their hands. 

“Guys, no. You seriously did not need to do all of this.” Astrid could burst into tears with the amount of love she was receiving from her friends. 

“Of course we did.” Kyra came to sit beside Astrid, holding a small bag. 

“You’re part of the team, our best friend and as I said yesterday,” Charli paused, trying to emphasise her next point. “It’s your fucking 18th birthday.” Charli smiled and then sat down on the other side of Astrid, placing a box in front of her. 

“I love you guys so much.” Astrid pulled the girls in with an arm over each of their shoulders, turning to place a kiss on their cheeks. 

“Love you too, now open them please.” Charli was bursting with excitement to watch her open the gifts. 

“This one is just from us.” Kyra handing the small bag over to Astrid. 

“Thank you.” Astrid smiled, taking the small bag from Kyra’s hand. A little white box was inside, pulling it out to open it. “Oh my god.” Astrid gasped at the ring that was inside the box. It was a simple silver ring, an oval plate in the middle that was engraved with a small soccer ball. 

“Do you like it?” Kyra shyly spoke after watching Astrid inspect the ring closer. 

“I love it.” Astrid spoke, tears forming in her eyes. 

“Good, because now we all match.” Charli smiled, herself and Kyra bringing up their hands to show the same ring on their own fingers. Astrid pouted before the tears of joy ran down her face. She had never felt more loved by two friends. “Oh, star.” Charli used the nickname she had given Astrid in their first camp. 

Upon deciding that she couldn’t shorten her full name, Charli began to call her ‘star’ or ‘stargirl’ because her name sounded like something to do with the stars; later the rest of the team adopted it on and off the field. Astrid really liked it and anything was better than Macca teasing her and calling her ‘Asteroid’ or ‘As-turd’; although Astrid did think it was quite funny. 

The girls brought the crying girl in their arms again, laughing at her reaction and glad she enjoyed their gift. 

“Okay, enough crying. Open the next one.” Kyra spoke, Astrid wiping her face and letting out a small laugh. 

“This is a bit of something from everyone.” Charli moved the box closer to the birthday girl. 

Astrid opened the box to reveal a bunch of little goodies; a few cards, little bottles of alcohol, some Taylor Swift nic-nacs and other small presents. Astrid examined every one of them, reading every card and letter as the other girls got up to give her some personal space. They also collected some birthday hats they bought, along with a ‘18th birthday’ sash for her to wear. 

“This is way too much, thank you.” Astrid jumped up, running to give them a hug again. 

“Of course not, you deserve it.” Charli pressed a kiss to Astrids head. “But enough of this, we’re going to be late for breakfast if we don’t hurry up.” They all looked at the time and realised they had to be down in 10 minutes. 

To Astrid’s surprise, the rest of the day was spent with the team as she thought most of them would be leaving today to go back to club. But when Kyra and Charli notified them of the important birthday a few months back, they all decided to stick around an extra day and celebrate their youngest member. She was showered with love throughout their team breakfast, when they went for a picnic lunch and then at a nice dinner where a cake was being brought out. 

“Happy Birthday to Astrid, happy birthday to you.” The table cheered, taking photos and videos of Astrid and her cake, a wide smile on her face. 

“HIP HIP!” Charli led the entire restaurant who had joined in. 

“HOORAY!”

“HIP HIP!” 

“HOORAY!”

“HIP HIP!” 

“HOORAY!” Everyone clapped as Astrid leant forward to blow out the candles, silently making her wish that she could be with this group of people forever. 

“Okay, now you have to skull your drink.” Sam who was sat across from Astrid pushed the girl’s almost full cocktail towards her. Her mouth opened in confusion. “It’s tradition, kid. It’s what you do at your 18th.” Sam simply shrugged her shoulders, Astrid looking to her other teammates who were nodding with grins, some holding their phones out to film her. 

So she picked up her drink and began drinking it fast, trying not to spill any on her new dress. Everyone cheered and clapped until she was done and she wiped her mouth, showing off her empty drink. 

A lot of the team members had left after dinner, opting to for an early sleep before their international flights, rather than taking Astrid clubbing for the first time. Those who remained with Astrid included, Kyra, Charli, Cortnee, Courtney, Clare Wheeler, Teagan, Ellie with Caitlin and Steph acting as chaperones for the youngsters. 

Flash forward to 2am and the last remaining partiers stumbled into the hotel lobby by the guide of Steph and Caitlin. Charli and Cortnee held Astrid up with either of her arms, Courtney and Kyra following behind, Steph and Caitlin just watched all of them drunkenly walk to the lifts, trying not to laugh. They all eventually made it to their rooms, Steph instructing Charli to call her in case something happened with Astrid who was drunker than her. 

Charli guided the girl who was almost passed out into their room and sat her down on her bed. 

“Star, hey.” Charli stopped Astrid from falling asleep. “You’ll be mad at me tomorrow if we don’t get this makeup off and out of this dress. So just stay awake for a few more minutes. Okay?” Astrid nodded silently, using Charli’s outstretched arms to pull herself up and walk to the bathroom. 

With makeup removed, teeth brushed and now both in pyjamas, Charli led the drunk girl back to her bed and helped her under the covers. As soon as Astrid’s head hit the pillow, she was out cold. Charli snapped a quick photo before falling asleep in her own bed.

Safe to say it was a good night out when Astrid woke up with a pounding headache, the natural sunlight pouring into the room harsh on her eyes, quickly pushing her face back into her pillow with a grunt. 

“Oh welcome back from the dead.” Charli laughed as she walked out of the bathroom, Astrid lifting her head slowly to give the girl a death stare. “How do you feel, party girl?” Charli sat at Astrid’s feet, watching the girl slowly sit up, hands rubbing her face. 

“Fucking shit.” She laughed as she met Charli’s face. “I went hard didn’t I?” Astrid rubbed her temples, attempting to ease the pounding in her head but it wasn’t working. 

“Oh yeah. You did. Come on.” Charli laughed, hitting Astrid's feet as she stood herself up. “Let’s go soak up all that alcohol with food, coffee and water.” Astrid groaned but slowly got out of bed. After a shower and some fresh clothes, Charli and Astrid had made their way to the team breakfast room again where most of the team still sat, Astrid may have walked in with a pair of sunnies over her eyes. 

“She made it through the night everyone!” Mackenzie threw an arm over Astrid’s shoulder as she rolled her eyes at the goalkeeper. She nudged her away and flipped her the bird with a smile before walking over to the coffee station. 

“Fun night then?” Hayley asked as Astrid sat down next to her with an iced coffee and some buttered toast. 

“Yeah… I think. I don’t remember a lot actually…” She took her sunnies off and rubbed her eyes. “I better ask the babysitters.” She directed her head over to where Steph and Caitlin sat. 

“First night drinking and you got black out. Nice.” Sam reached across the table for a fist bump which Astrid loosely returned, shaking her head slowly, which ended up bringing back the headache that was fading into the background. 

Everyone finished their breakfast slowly, taking in these last moments of camp together because not all of them would be together for quite a while. A lot of the senior players were going into an off season soon after returning to their international homes and taking a break for the first time in a while. 

Everyone caught a flight together back to Sydney from Canberra before separating for their international and domestic flights, saying goodbye to each other in the departure terminals. 

Kyra, Courtney and Charli were the last people Astrid had to say goodbye to, the three of them heading back to Sweden and Astrid sticking behind in Sydney. 

“I’m going to miss you guys so much.” She brought them all in for a group hug quickly. 

“It’s okay, we’ll be back together for the next camp soon.” Charli hugged Astrid singularly, squeezing her close to her one last time. 

“Where hopefully we all get some more playing time.” Courtney smiled at the youngest girl. 

“And we can have even more drunken nights with miss party animal over here.” Kyra teased, Astrid pushed her shoulder lightly, shaking her head. 

“Alright, you guys better go before you miss your flight.” Astrid nodded at them to go, putting a small smile on her face that hid the fact she was quite sad she wasn’t going with them. One day, hopefully. “Have a safe flight. Love you.” Astrid called out as they walked away. 

“Love you stargirl. I’ll text when we land.” Charli yells back before they are out of view. 

“Ready to go?” Cortnee came up behind Astrid, she had been patiently waiting for her to say her goodbyes after her own with other teammates. 

“Yeah, sorry for making you wait.” Astrid apologised as they wheeled their luggage out of the doors and began making their way to Cortnee’s car they left parked before camp. 

“No, it’s all good. I get it.” Cortnee smiled over at Astrid. They made their way back to Astrid’s apartment where Cortnee dropped her off. They said their own goodbyes, Astrid promising to text her later as she made her way inside. 

Her place was small, one bed, one bath, a kitchen and a living room, but she didn’t need much more for just herself. She was leaving again to go back home tomorrow, seeing her extended family for the first time since Christmas to celebrate her birthday with them. That meant she had the next 16 hours to unpack, repack, sleep and get on the road to Bateau Bay.

She also had to think about the next club season and what that looked like for her. Her short contract with Sydney FC was officially over and her agent hadn’t contacted her just yet about whether that was going to continue or if other clubs were looking at her for the 2022/2023 season. Hopefully she would know soon and her future would be clearer than it is now.

to be continued...

A life for a life |Derek Morgan x platonic!reader

Summary; while chasing down an unsub, reader has to make a haste decision on whether to take the kill shot, making it their first. 

Pairings; derek morgan x platonic!reader, bau team x platonic!reader (gender neutral, no direct pronouns used)

Warnings; guns used, blood, typical cm plot things, fluff, angst and sadness wrapped into one.

Words; 1.2k

Not my gif; @just-my-fandom​

Once the team had figured out who the unsub was, they split up between his home and work addresses, racing against the clock towards each. Morgan, Spencer and yourself were currently heading to his house with Garcia on the phone still spitting out random facts about him.

 The SUV pulled up outside the small house, the three of you jumping out straight away. 

“Reid, you take the back entrance.” Morgan instructed, Spencer running around the side of the house instantly. “You take the kitchen entrance and I’ll take the front.” You nodded at him, giving him a fist bump before taking off, it was your way of saying “be safe” without words. 

You stayed quiet and low as you travelled around the west side, looking through the windows for any sign of the unsub. 

“I got him. He’s in the living room with Carrie.” You whispered into your radio, spotting him and the missing girl through the side window. You continue until you get to the door. Derek’s loud voice can be heard throughout the whole house. 

“Samuel Rogers! Drop the weapon and let Carrie go!” 

You twist the handle of the door slowly, attempting not to make any noise as you open it easily, stepping inside the house quietly. You had your gun raised, checking each corner before you found yourself at the edge of the kitchen and the living room. Derek was directly in front of the unsub, gun trained at him as best as he could with the unsub moving back and forth, arms tight around Carrie’s neck. Spencer was only 2 feet away from you, standing between the dining and living room, doing the same as you, standing silently behind them in case things went south. 

Derek was talking to him, trying to calm him down and encouraging him to let her go but he wasn't budging. “Give it up man, let her go. Your plan didn’t work.” Morgan kept saying to him. Your gun was pointed directly at him from behind, Samuel being unaware of the two agents currently behind him. 

“SHUT UP!” Samuel yelled, squeezing Carrie tighter in his arms, pointing his gun directly at Derek’s chest. 

Adrenaline was pumping through your veins, heartbeat pounding in your ears as you stood closer to an unsub than you ever have before. Your finger was pressing on the trigger and within seconds a shot was fired, your arm jolting back as your own gun fired. Your eyes were squinted shut, not seeing directly where it was fired. 

You opened your eyes seconds later, spotting Spencer moving closer to Samuel’s body checking for a pulse, Derek reaching forward to move Carrie out of the way. Your eyes then travelled to the lifeless body on the ground, spotting the bloody hole in his forehead. Your breath left your chest, arms still raised with your gun in your hands.

This isn’t the first time you’ve shot someone while being in the FBI, normally opting for the shoulder or the thigh, pretty much just knocking them down. But this was your first kill. The first time your shot has killed someone else. You were frozen in your spot, watching the scene unfold before you as the rest of your team showed up, moving Carrie out to an ambulance and covering Samuel’s body with a white sheet.

A soft hand on your shoulder finally broke you from your trance, you blinked and the air finally returned to your lungs. 

“Y/N.” Derek called out softly from beside your ear. He reached out and placed his hand on your extended arms, lowering them and removing your gun from shaking hands. “It’s okay.” He whispered and your head dropped, playing back the same moment over and over again. He wrapped his arm around your shoulders and walked you out of your head, guiding you to stand next to one of the SUV’s. 

You were in a state of shock, staring down at the pavement while people walked past you, sirens rang and lights flashed in the street, neighbours coming out of their houses to look at the spectacle happening in their street. 

“Hey.” Derek appeared in front of you again. “You okay?” His voice was soft and calming. You kept your head down. 

“I- I’ve never killed anyone before. I didn’t want it to end like that.” You shook your head, eventually meeting his soft eyes with your sad ones. 

“I know. I know, kid.” He consoled you. “I also know that you saved my life.” He held your shoulder again, pulling you closer to him. 

“Well yeah but-” You looked down again, sighing deeply. 

“No buts. Look at me.” He instructed but you didn’t. He used his hand to grab your cheek softly, pulling you up to meet his eyes again. “You did what you had to. Okay?” He was telling the truth but there was part of you that knew it could’ve ended differently and he sensed this. “Okay?” He asked again. 

“Okay.” You sighed, nodding your head. 

“Come here.” He pulled you into a soft hug, holding your head against his chest as you wrapped your arms up under his shoulders. You didn’t care if people or your team saw you hugging in the field, they knew how close you guys were. He was like your big brother and your best friend rolled into one. He was close to Spencer in a similar way, everyone including yourself knew that. But he was the first to take you under his wing when you joined the team not that long ago, finding comfort in you and your presence; you felt the exact same. 

“Thank you Morgan.” You pulled back from the hug, smiling softly up at him. 

“Anytime Y/L/N.” He ruffled your hair like he always did. “Let’s go get a drink.” He laughed slightly, brightening the mood. You nodded, never passing up the chance to hang out with your team in a fun setting. 

You had all made your way back to the hotel you were staying at, taking some time to get yourselves ready before heading down to the hotel bar. You were the last to arrive, taking a little extra time in the shower to wash the day off. As you walked down the stairs into the bar, the whole team turned to look at you, cheering lightly as they said hello. Your face changed quickly from happy to confused. You walked closer to them, standing next to Derek. 

“What’s going on?” You looked at him, whispering through a smile. His own smile grew larger as he handed you your favourite drink. 

“To Y/N,” Everyone raised their glasses. “For saving my life today.” He continued and wrapped his empty arm around your shoulder. Everyone clinked their glasses together, making sure to smile and make eye contact with you. “Thank you, I’m proud of you.” Derek whispered in your ear, placing a kiss on your temple as the rest of your team talked amongst themselves again. 

The rest of the night was spent talking,laughing and drinking with your newfound family. It was a tough case, especially for you and tonight was exactly what you needed.  

The Feels || Alessia Russo

Alessia Russo x Reader

Summary: Five times you and Alessia soft launched yourselves on social media, and one time you two hard launched your relationship.

Warnings: Maybe a tad bit of angst and a lot of tooth-rotting fluff & comfort

Word count: 7k words

A/N: I don't really know if this makes sense, but I liked it and decided to share it. An Alessia fic was requested second-most to an Alexia fic, so here it is.

1. Festival Dates, Ferris Wheels, & The Feels

Sometimes, rumors were a pain in the ass. Today, however, you’d never appreciated your teams’ gossiping tendencies more. It had come to your attention during shooting drills with the one and only Katie McCabe that one of Arsenal’s latest signings, Alessia Russo, had a crush on you. Unbeknownst to anyone but Katie, it was a crush that you returned. 

You’d always been rather confident in yourself and so, with this new piece of intel, you took it upon yourself to ask Alessia out. Alessia had readily agreed, but now the stress fell onto you to figure out just where the two of you could spend a few hours getting to know each other. Yet again, you consulted the person who had gotten everything started, who also happened to be your best friend. You and Katie had spent several hours plotting for the big day, finally deciding upon what to do. You texted Alessia and told her that you’d be picking her up from her house and giving her a specific time. 

The day came along, and after you finished up team training, you came back to your apartment and showered before leaving to go pick up Alessia. On the way, you bought the gifts that you had debated (at great length, honestly) with Katie on getting, having been nervous that getting the blonde gifts on a first date would be too forward or too overwhelming for the other woman. McCabe had reassured you several times that you would be fine, however. 

While you were borderline terrified, given how things had ended with your ex-girlfriend, you still found yourself making the drive over to Alessia’s. Your last relationship hadn’t gone well, and you didn’t know if you were ready to love or to accept love again, something was always in the back of your mind nagging at you– what if you got hurt again? 

As you stood on Alessia’s front step, holding a bouquet of flowers, you noticed that your hands shook due to nerves. As you raised your hand to knock, you felt yet another wave of nerves crash over you, nearly dropping your gifts just as Alessia opened the door. Alessia poked her head out, grinning wildly at you. 

“Hey, Y/N! You look amazing.” And just like that, the nerves and all of those negative thoughts were gone. An aura of calmness radiated from the other woman, transferring over onto you, and you held out the roses for the other woman to take with a small smile. 

“Hi, Lessi. You look– gorgeous,” You nearly stumbled over your words as you took the other woman in. You’d instructed her to dress casually, and it was simply amazing how Alessia could take the words right from your mouth in just a pair of jeans paired and a simple white top. 

“Thank you. For everything, honestly– you certainly didn’t have to get me these!” She held up the flowers, taking a second to smell them as she grinned before taking a step back into her apartment. “I’m just going to put these in a vase, you’re more than welcome to come in.”

You took a step into the house, closing Alessia’s front door behind yourself as Alessia walked away to go take care of the flowers. You could have followed, but chose to take a moment to calm your racing heart, closing your eyes and taking a deep breath. To be perfectly honest, you’d been dreaming of this day ever since you’d first set eyes on the blonde forward. You’d first met her in 2021, facing off against her in your first ever WSL appearance as you played for Arsenal against Manchester City. 

You’d struggled back and forth with Alessia the entire game, as you were a defender. Arsenal had pulled away with a win, but at the end of the match you had gone up to Alessia to formally meet her, asking to exchange jerseys. That wouldn’t be the last time you’d formally speak with her, as the two of you would be matched up in several more games afterward. You’d never thought your crush would ever come to see the light of day, but here you were, standing on the welcoming mat of Alessia Russo’s apartment, waiting for her to put the bouquet you’d gifted her in a vase. 

It didn’t take long before Alessia returned to you, and by then you’d calmed yourself down enough to make conversation without stuttering over the words. As you two got to your car, and all throughout the drive to the destination you’d picked out, the two of you kept up a conversation. You talked about everything from football to your favorite breakfast foods to Lessi’s UNC days, with you wondering what the extended duration in the United States had been like. Every once in a while, Alessia would ask you where the two of you were going, but you’d always give her a teasingly inconspicuous answer. 

“You’re not secretly taking me to a scary alley and murdering me, right?” Alessia joked at one point, causing you to tilt your head towards her and waggle your eyebrows, rewarding you with Alessia’s giggles. 

Finally, the two of you arrived at the gates of a festival just as the sun was beginning to set. You paid for your tickets and spent the evening chatting with Alessia on your arm, playing festival games, eating some different foods, and sharing jokes and laughter. At one point, you ended up winning a small stuffed bear, which you immediately gifted to Alessia with a smile and a bow, yet again resulting in Alessia giggling, a noise which you were beginning to associate as the eighth wonder of the world. Nearing the end of your night, Alessia convinced you to ride the ferris wheel with her, despite your fear of heights. 

As the two of you neared the top, you couldn’t help but shift closer to Alessia, nervously taking in your distance from the ground. Noticing your slight distress, Alessia brought one of her arms around your shoulders and tugged you into her side, grabbing your hand and holding it in hers with her other arm. You looked at her with a smile, which Alessia returned. Festival music carried on in the background, a song which you faintly recognized as “The Feels” by the Labrinth playing. A small draft of wind had picked up, the heat of the woman beside you keeping you from becoming too chilled. 

“I really enjoyed tonight,” You confessed to the other woman.

“So did I, thank you for bringing me out.” Alessia said back, her breaths brushing across your cheeks due to your close proximity and causing you to blush. Your eyes wandered down to her lips before going back up to her eyes, noticing Alessia looking at your own lips. 

Your fear of heights long forgotten, your heart rate picked up for an entirely different reason as you whispered out, “I’d really like to kiss you right now,”

“Then do it.” Alessia responded, and you brought your free hand up to cup her jaw, closing your eyes as you shifted slightly and guided her lips to your own. Just at that moment, the music in the background picked up as the beat dropped, something that you only faintly picked up on as you were consumed in everything that was Alessia Russo. The kiss was impossibly soft, and the music seemed to pick up at that moment, a song which you faintly picked up on. After a few seconds, the two of you parted, and you beamed at the blue-eyed woman, and she giggled at the giddy expression on your face. Just before the two of you began to move down the ferris wheel, Alessia pulled out her phone and pulled you further into her, for another kiss, capturing the moment with a photo. Parting from you again, she took a picture of the night sky and festival terrain beneath the two of you before quickly pocketing her phone once again. 

“I wanted to capture the moment,” She explained to you, and you just laughed again, bringing her in for a quick peck as the two of you descended back towards the ground. 

Later that night, when you returned home, you opened up your phone to answer Alessia, telling her that you’d made it back to your own apartment safely. 

Opening up Instagram, you saw that Alessia had posted something on her story and opened it, seeing one of the two pictures the woman had taken on the ferris wheel on her story. It was the picture of the sky and the festival, the one that didn’t feature the two of you, which you were grateful for as part of your conversation today had been about keeping what was between the two of you private. As you continued to watch her story, you realized that there was a song playing in the background, the very same one that had played during your first kiss– “The Feels” by Labrinth. Alessia’s attention to detail, and the entire gesture of affection, brought a smile to your face. The smile lasted even as you put down your phone and laid back against your bed, falling asleep to the thoughts of your long-awaited first date with Alessia Russo. 

—--

2. First Meetings, Proud Goals, & Family Dinner

It wasn’t very often that you found yourself in the stands during football matches, but here you were, sitting beside Alessia’s family and watching your girlfriend play on the field in front of you. 

The twist? It was the first time you were formally meeting Alessia’s family without Alessia by your side. 

Having suffered a minor knee injury a few short weeks ago, you’d been unavailable for call ups for the England Lionesses. Instead of watching the match from your apartment couch, Alessia’s family had contacted you and plotted with you to surprise your girlfriend at the match. 

The two of you had been secretly dating for a few months, now, and were still going strong. While the two of you weren’t incredibly obvious, a few of your teammates were beginning to figure out the two of you were a thing. Honestly, you’d just been surprised that McCabe had been able to keep her mouth shut for so long. 

Prior to this, you’d had quick talks with each of Alessia’s parents through the phone when they facetimed or called Alessia while you happened to be there. You’d met one of Alessia’s brothers, Luca, at a match before as well, but the rest of them were completely unfamiliar to you. The entire thing was slightly unconventional, and you’d have rather had Alessia with you when you met the rest of your family, but the Russo family made the entire thing go by quite smoothly, to your surprise. 

As adorable as the entire situation was, you’d never been so nervous in your entire life, and you’d played in the World Cup! As you’d greeted Alessia’s parents and siblings outside of the stadium, you’d been surprised to be pulled into hugs by each of them. It had been a surprisingly warm welcome, making all the worrying that you’d been doing over meeting her family for the first time, alone, seem all for nought. You were sat at the end of the aisle, next to Alessia’s father, Mario, who kept nudging you to keep up a steady flow of conversation, much to your entertainment. 

All throughout the match, Alessia’s family showed you baby pictures of Less, some of which you asked them to send to you. They told you stories of Alessia as a teenager and as a child, and you felt it was only fair to share some of your own. 

At halftime, the Lionesses were up by 3. As Alessia turned to head back to the locker rooms, she looked up and caught your gaze. You saw her go through several different stages of emotions, ranging from confusion, to surprise, to absolute elation as a huge grin broke across her face and she waved to you eagerly. You waved back, nudging Mario, who was also waving and laughing at his daughter’s facial expressions. 

During the game, you took a few pictures– some of yourself with Alessia’s family members, and a few of the field in front of you. You looked through them before deciding to post one of them on your Instagram story. As you made up the story, you hesitated on how to send a secret message to your lover, as the two of you had been enjoying sending subtle hints and messages through your stories and posts. Smiling a little bit, you put a small red heart in the corner of a picture of the stadium that you had taken earlier. Then, you posted it. 

After that, you pocketed your phone, making the conscious decision to be more present during the match and to soak up the moments with Alessia’s family while you could.

When Alessia scored an absolute banger of a goal, you burst to your feet with the rest of Alessia’s family. Shouting your pride for your secret girlfriend for the world to hear, your voice joined the thousands of those in attendance to watch the Lionesses that day, but yours was the only one that Alessia cared about as she tapped a finger to her chest, tilting her head in your direction as she looked at you in the audience. The moment was incredibly special, smiles on both of your faces. The moment lasted a brief second, but felt like so much longer, before Alessia was embraced by the rest of the Lionesses on the field in a huge group hug, breaking your eye contact. 

At the end of the match, Alessia was making her way around the field, conversing with different people and signing things for fans. Finally, she made it around to you and her family, coming close to give each of you hugs. When her arms reached up and around the barrier to embrace you, she got as close to your face as she could before whispering out, “Hi, baby. Thank you for surprising me.” 

“I’m so proud of you, Lessi.” You whispered back, before letting your girl go to hug the rest of her family members. You all spoke for a few minutes before Alessia had to go to change.

You saw your girlfriend again outside of the stadium, giving her another hug as you all decided to go out to eat together. You shared a nice meal with Alessia and her family for a few hours, enjoying getting to know everyone even more as you and Alessia sat next to each other, surrounded by her family that was slowly beginning to feel like your own. 

That night, as Alessia lay in her own bed in her apartment, she pulled up Instagram and saw that you had posted something on your story. Tapping on your icon, a picture of the field came up on her screen, and it took her a second to notice the red heart in the corner that she knew was meant for her. With a smile, she tapped back onto your story to look at it again before sending you a goodnight text, consciously putting a red heart into her text message before shutting off her phone and falling asleep with a huge, cheesy grin on her face. 

—-- 

3. Chocolates, Flowers, & Bears – Oh my!

As you made your way up the steps to Alessia’s North London apartment, you found yourself reminiscing in a scene similar to this one. Holding a bouquet of flowers in one hand, a box of chocolates in the other, and a stuffed bear stuffed beneath your elbow, all of which had been carefully planned out between you and the notorious Katie McCabe. You were reminded of your first date as you rapped on Alessia’s front door with the back of one of your free hands, unable to keep the excited grin from your face. 

It was Valentine’s Day, and you had planned to take Alessia out to a nice dinner, planning to pick her up for a late reservation at her favorite restaurant. For the occasion, you were dressed in black formal wear and had told Alessia to dress nicely as well. As Alessia opened the door, you took her in and your smile fell from your face slightly, an expression of concern replacing it. 

She wore a beautiful, tight-fitting black dress which accentuated her curves and long legs, and for a moment the sight of her took your breath away. Then, you took in her face, and it became very quickly obvious to you that your girlfriend wasn’t feeling it tonight. She had black bags beneath her tired-looking eyes, and her hands fidgeted at her side nervously. You knew that she’d been feeling quite stressed lately, with football and making sure that she was scoring enough goals to satisfy her own standards, which had always been far above anybody else’s. She was her own toughest critic, and it appeared that tonight it was all crashing down on her. 

“Hi, baby. Are you doing okay?” You asked gently, stepping forward. The second you spoke, you saw a tear beginning to form in the corner of Alessia’s eye and your heart broke a little bit at the image. 

“I’m okay. Are you ready to go?” Alessia asked, trying to brush past the fact that she was obviously upset. You shook your head, thinking about how to correctly go about this without bringing up your girlfriends’ feelings, as it seemed like she didn’t want to talk about it and you knew better than to prod at her. 

“Actually, I was hoping we could have a night in?” Your voice was soft and hopeful-sounding, and the second you voiced it a look of relief washed up upon your girlfriends’ face. 

“Yes, please.” She whispered, and you smiled gently. Alessia took a step back to allow you into her home, pushing the door closed behind you.

“Go get changed, baby. I’ll set up the couch for a movie night, how does that sound?” You asked, and Alessia looked at you with such a look of adoration that you nearly melted on the spot. Nodding eagerly, Alessia didn’t think twice before making her way further into her apartment in the direction of her room. While she changed, you kicked your shoes off next to Alessia’s welcome mat before going about setting up Alessia’s living room for a night in. 

You placed the bouquet you’d gotten Alessia in a vase, setting both items on her counter to replace the last bouquet you’d gotten her. You set the chocolates and the stuffed bear on the counter as well before grabbing all of Alessia’s favorite snacks and putting them into bowls, bringing them into the living room and setting them on a table in front of her couch. You went back to the kitchen, grabbing two drink bottles and bringing them back to the living room as well, setting them on the table next to the snacks. Next, you went about preparing the movie.

You specifically remembered Alessia mentioning that she’d never seen the Wizard of Oz during training, despite having the movie on one of her shelves. So, you went about putting that movie on the television before pulling out some blankets and pillows and setting them on the couch. By the time you’d finished, Alessia was coming out of her room. She’d changed into a large sleep shirt and sweatpants with long, fuzzy socks. The second she saw you and what you’d set up, a large smile broke across her face. 

“Thank you, Y/N. It looks very cozy,” Alessia whispered gently, feeling so cared for in the moment that it nearly brought tears to her eyes. She’d been so stressed lately that this had been exactly what she’d needed today, and she was so grateful that you’d seemed to sense that. Coming up to you, she gently pecked your lips before handing you a large hoodie of hers and shorts. “Go change, baby. I’ll be right here when you get back!” 

With that, Alessia took several steps backward before plopping herself down on her own couch, looking up at you expectantly when you didn’t budge. You were staring at her, a fond smile on your face. 

“What?” Alessia asked, appearing confused. 

“You’re so beautiful.” You whispered, in awe of the woman before you. A blush rose to Alessia’s cheeks quickly at your words and she shooed you away to go get changed, a smile rising to her face. 

Once you came back, you sat down on the couch and pulled Alessia over to you. Putting your feet up on the couch and laying back, Alessia quickly climbed on top of you and threw her arms around you, resting her head on your chest. You laid one arm on her back, starting the movie before bringing up your other hand to gently card your fingers through her hair the way that you knew calmed her down. 

As the two of you laid there, your hand tracing patterns on her back as the other gently stroked her head, Alessia’s hand crept up your chest and to the open skin of your collarbone, tracing the skin there as she focused on the movie. Just a moment later, she spoke up softly.

“Y/N?”

“Yes, Less?” You asked, equally as softly.

“Thank you for this. I’m sorry I ruined your plans, though. I know you worked hard to plan tonight.” She sounded sorry, and you frowned gently, your hand leaving her hair to go to her chin and guide her head upward to look at you. 

“Less, you ruined nothing. There’s nothing else I’d rather be doing right now.” You reassured the other woman, a fond smile replacing the frown on your face as Alessia smiled gently at you.

“I’ll make it up to you. We can do something fancy tomorrow, if you want.” Alessia still felt sorry, and you could tell from both her words and her intonation. Shaking your head, your thumb stroked her cheek gently as you spoke.

“Less, fancy or not, we could be shoveling three-day-old trash and I’d still be happy because I’m with you. You don’t have to make up for anything, love.” Your words seemed to strike a cord in the other woman as she gently leaned further up into you, placing a soft kiss against your lips. You two probably would have kissed for longer if you’d have been able to keep the smile from your face. However, as you smiled into the kiss, Alessia couldn’t fight back her own smile and pulled away, the both of you grinning widely at each other. 

“I love you,” Alessia murmured passionately. “So, so, so much.” 

Your grin became impossibly larger at the other woman’s words– you’d known you’d loved her for a long time, but neither of you had ever said it. “I love you too, Less. So much.” 

The two of you would spend the night together, cuddled up and munching on different snacks. When the movie finished, Alessia invited you to stay the night, which you oh-so-gratefully accepted. That night, you made your small instagram story together. The two of you chose a simple picture of the stuffed bear, flower bouquet, and chocolates that you’d bought Alessia and chose to play “The Feels” over the background of the story, posting it to Alessia’s instagram. 

Turning off your phones for the night, the two of you fell into bed together. Cuddled into each other, you both fell asleep with soft smiles upon each of your faces. 

—--

4. Cookies, Puppy Love, & Keys

A knock came at your door, to which you stood up from your position on your couch to make your way over to the door. Opening it revealed your gorgeous girlfriend in a casual jumper and joggers, and a huge smile broke out across your face. However, your girlfriend barely even looked at you as she squealed out in excitement, scooping the wiggling figure out of your arms rather quickly. 

“Oh my gosh! He’s so adorable!!” Lessi gushed, her beautiful eyes crinkling at the corners as she held up your newly adopted puppy at eye level. You’d named the tiny puppy Jasper, which you thought was an appropriate name for the hyperactive animal. It licked at your girlfriends’ face, causing her to giggle, and you quickly ushered her into the house with a smile, your own laughs gently leaving your mouth at the scene. 

You’d made the decision to buy the puppy as the first of many decisions that month. The second decision was packed into your back pocket, waiting for the perfect moment to be pulled out. You’d invited Less over for your day off of training, having not spent as much time as you would have liked alone with the other woman. 

As your girlfriend continued to giggle at Jasper, who wiggled and barked and licked like all puppies do, a timer beeped and you startled. Alessia turned to look up at you from her newfound position on the floor as Jasper crawled all over her. 

“What was that?” Less asked, and you smiled. 

“I figured we could bake cookies today, if that would be okay with you?” Your voice was unsteady, the nerves of how big the day was for you bleeding into your voice. Alessia’s brows furrowed but she smiled nonetheless, choosing to not make a big deal out of your quaky voice and deciding that you’d tell her if anything was wrong, as was the usual for your relationship of nearly two years. 

“Oh– of course! I’d love to do that!” Alessia said excitedly, and you grinned as Jasper took advantage of her momentary distraction to nip at her fingers, causing Alessia to yelp in surprise and continue on giggling and speaking to the puppy as if he were a human. Amused, you made your way into the kitchen and began going about making the dough for the cookies, figuring your girlfriend would join you when she was ready. Besides, you were more than happy to bake cookies from your spot in the kitchen, which allowed you to watch as Alessia rolled around with Jasper on the ground. 

Jasper continued to pounce and jump all over your girlfriend and, inspired by her giggles and adorable squeaks, you quickly pulled out your phone to snap a picture of the two. 

After a few minutes, Alessia did get up from the ground and make her way over to where you stood at your kitchen counter, your back momentarily turned towards her as you mixed some ingredients together. Taking her chance, the other woman folded her arms around your middle, wrapping you up in a gentle hug from behind and planting a soft kiss against the skin of your neck. 

Turning your head towards your girlfriend, you waited for her to look up to connect your lips. Her hands began to wander, inching below the fabric of your loose-fitting t-shirt to rest against the skin of your stomach, fingers gently digging into your hips as she continued to kiss you. One of her hands wandered to grab at your ass, and you moaned into the kiss, your head falling back as you detached your kiss. Your girlfriend, however, took the initiative to kiss at your neck, gently nipping and sucking but making sure not to leave any visible marks, as the two of you were still quite secretive about your relationship. Your teammates knew, as did your families, but most others were kept in the dark about the two of you.

Alessia continued her assault on your neck, one hand trailing along your behind as her other one trailed up the musculature of your stomach, heading upward to grasp at your chest. Just as the kiss was getting even more heated, a second timer went off, causing you to jump in your girlfriends’ hold. Throughout your kiss, Jasper had also been yipping at the two of you, but everything had seemed to turn to background noise. Now, however, the noises of the kitchen broke past your kiss-drunken haze as you turned in your girlfriends’ hold, pecking her lips quickly before darting over to turn off the timer. Alessia grinned gently, knowing that she’d have plenty of time to continue what she’d begun later. She took up the task that you’d been distracted from, mixing up some ingredients together as you worked to prepare the oven for the cookies. 

As you and Alessia worked together to make cookies, with a couple of kisses thrown in here and there, as well as some love given to Jasper, you could feel your secret weighing you down. Finally, as you set the last tray of cookies down onto a tray to cool off, you looked at your girlfriend. She’d thrown her hair up into a messy bun and the sleeves of her jumper had been rolled up to avoid getting them dirty, and she also had a dash of flour on one of her cheeks. To you, she’d never looked so beautiful before. You nearly forgot your words, and Alessia took a step towards you, gently putting her hands on your waist and tugging you into her to press a gentle kiss on your lips.

“Come back to me, sweet.” Alessia murmured, her worry seeping through at how nervous you looked. Instead of responding, you rested your head against her shoulder for a moment and forced yourself to take a deep breath before starting again.

“Less– I’ve been thinking about this for a really, really long time and I know that we haven’t really talked too much about it, but I really want this and if you want it too then I think it would work. Of course, you can always say no and I would never be hurt or offended but–”

“Baby, slow down and breathe.” Alessia reassured you, pecking at your lips again as she cut off your rambling with a tiny giggle. You looked into her blue eyes as a blush rose to your cheeks. Deciding to just cut off the rest of your ill-planned speech, you blurted out the question you’d been meaning to ask for the last couple of weeks. 

“Move in with me?” 

“I would love to, baby.” Alessia responded almost instantaneously, and you grinned. 

“Really?!” You couldn’t help but be excited at the prospect of living in the same house as the love of your life. The two of you had remained in separate apartments throughout your relationship due to the secrecy of it. However, the more people who knew about the two of you, the less concerned you were about your private affairs being more known to the world. Besides, it wasn’t uncommon for those in the footballing world to move in together, as loads of your teammates had shared apartments. 

“Of course– I could barely say no when you bribe me with puppies and cookies!” Alessia jokes, and you couldn’t help but smile at her, bringing her closer for yet another unbelievably soft kiss. 

As the two of you sat with your puppy and a plate full of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies, you showed Alessia the picture that you’d taken of her. She asked that you send the picture to her, which you did eagerly, before turning off your phones for the day so that you could spend the rest of your time together without the outside chatter. You two spent the rest of your day eating cookies, talking, and playing with Jasper without a care in the world about anything else. 

A few weeks later, Alessia posted a monthly recap post to her instagram, the very first photo featuring the picture you’d taken of her with Jasper. The caption of the post? “A big month with the ones I love most <3”

It was this post that began to really spark the speculation of the fans that the two of you were dating. 

Surprisingly, neither of you minded. 

—--

5. Late Nights, Silent Mornings, & Kitchen Dancing

Rolling over in the bed you shared with your girlfriend, you sighed. The two of you had gone to bed many hours ago, exhausted from a day full of training and media work. However, while your girlfriend had fallen asleep almost instantaneously, you’d found yourself unable to do the same. 

Sighing yet again, you decided to get up and go get a glass of water, deciding that all of your shifting would do nothing but wake your girlfriend up, and you dreaded what would happen if you dared interrupt her beauty sleep. Sitting up and climbing out of the bed, you turned and found the covers that you had kicked about in all of your rolling, pulling them up and over your still-sleeping girlfriend. Turning the corner of the bed, you snagged a sweatshirt from on top of a chair that you knew belonged to your girlfriend, relishing in how it smelled of her as you shrugged the material over your sports bra. Before you finally left the room, you planted a soft, lingering kiss on your girlfriends’ forehead. 

Jasper sat at the foot of your bed, head perking up as you left the room, but ultimately staying where he was and deciding to sleep instead of follow you.

Softly treading down the hallway and reaching the kitchen, you went about preparing a glass of water. Once done, you drank most of it but held the half-full glass in one hand as you leaned against the counter, beyond tired but still unable to find yourself to be in the mood to sleep. You were, to be quite frank, annoyed at your inability to sleep, and wondered if it was due to stress. After all, your contract for Arsenal was running out soon and they had yet to renew it, despite all of your teammates and your girlfriend telling you that there was no way they wouldn’t renew it, given how successful you had been, especially as of late.

So consumed in your frustrated thoughts, you didn’t hear your girlfriend approaching until she was right in front of you. 

“Baby? Love? Are you alright?” She murmured, voice raspy from sleep. 

“Oh– Less, baby. I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to wake you.” You whispered back, your own voice raspy but due to lack of sleep. Alessia frowned at you, standing in just a sports bra and sweatpants that you thought may have been yours. Instead of speaking, she took a few steps towards you and opened her arms to embrace you. As soon as you stepped towards her, she tugged you all the way into her and wrapped her arms around your middle in a giant bear hug, resting her head on your shoulder. 

“Did you want to talk about what’s keeping you up?” She asked gently, but you shook your head against her shoulder and she sighed, knowing better than to pry right now. Instead, she began to gently rock back and forth, an idea springing up in her head. Removing her hands from around you and taking a half step back, she took one of your hands in hers before wrapping her other one back around you, tugging you right back into her. Confused, you wrapped your free arm around her neck, growing even more confused as Alessia began to guide you around the kitchen humming and giggling as she began to sing, guiding you to dance to the beat of whatever song she was softly singing.

You couldn’t help but giggle, especially when your clumsy girlfriend tripped and nearly sent the two of you careening towards the ground. You were able to catch your footing, however, saving the two of you from what would have probably put you on Arsenal’s ever-persistently growing list of injured players. 

You two continued to dance for several more minutes, Alessia choosing to rest her head against your chest. As you danced, she became so consumed in listening to the steady beat of your heart that she forgot she was supposed to be humming. Instead, the two of you rocked to no beat at all, content to just be close to each other. 

Finally, you yawned, signaling that it was time to try to sleep again. Alessia guided you back towards your room to try to sleep again. Shifting in the bed, Alessia held you in her arms until she was sure that you were asleep before also falling asleep. 

It wasn’t until a few weeks later that you saw evidence of that late night featured as one of many on Alessia’s next instagram post– it was of you leaning against the counter, nothing but a shadow in a dimly-lit kitchen. It had been a dark moment for you, and you wondered why Alessia had bothered taking the picture without you knowing. However, as you continued to stare at the small photo, you noticed that Alessia had somehow managed to turn something so dark into something light and beautiful– the way that you stood, leaning against the counter, made you seem so human and perfectly captured… Well, you. It took you a few minutes to truly understand why Alessia had taken the photo, and you realized that, while the moment had been dark, the memory itself was light and fluffy. This would always be something that you’d marvel about your lover, and be sure to tell her about. Lessi was, after all, the light of your life, and it was moments like these where you knew that to be true. 

—--

6. Secrets, Magical Gardens, & Fountains

After Alessia’s last instagram post, fans were calling you the new Preath with how the two of you continuously “soft launched” your relationship, or lack of relationship… nobody really knew, honestly. Some speculated that some of Alessia’s instagram photos and stories pointed at your relationship together, while others claimed that was pure speculation. It was something that you and your girlfriend often laughed about together. After four years together, you’d never been closer or happier with the woman you loved. The two of you were still teammates at Arsenal and successful as ever, and as stable as the two of you were, you still felt like something was shifting between the two of you. 

Waking up this morning on a day off, Alessia told you to dress nicely, to which you did. Alessia herself decided upon a flowy white top and high-waisted pants. She had told the two of you that you were going somewhere but, as she drove with one hand on the wheel and the other resting on your thigh, she had yet to tell you where. 

After what seemed like ages of driving and soft conversation, Alessia pulled the car into a parking space in front of a huge, gorgeous botanical garden. Opening the door, Alessia stood in front of the car and held out her hand for you to take, which you did. Together, the two of you walked around the garden and admired all of the different types of flowers and plants. Idle chatter filled the space between the two of you, and the weather was just simply perfect. 

Coming up to a clearing that featured a large, beautiful water fountain, Alessia suddenly stopped. Turning towards you, you suddenly realized why everything had felt like it was shifting as of late. Alessia Russo dropped down to one knee in front of you, pulling a black box from the back pocket of her pants and opening it to reveal a gorgeous ring. You could barely process the moment, having been completely oblivious to Alessia’s plans. Little did you know that your partner had been planning this moment for months, utilizing the ever-present Katie McCabe to plan out her proposal. 

Not wasting a moment, Alessia spoke to you. Her blue eyes sparkled with adoration and emotion as her voice quivered, but remained true. 

“Y/N M/N L/N, from festival dates to football matches, to movie nights and early mornings spent dancing in the kitchen, I have spent hours upon hours doing the things I love with the person I love the most. You make even the smallest things seem like the most significant, and there is nothing I would love more in the world than to spend the rest of my life with you. Would you do me the honor of becoming my wife?”

“Yes. Yes. A thousand and one times, yes.” And with that, Alessia slipped the ring on your finger. 

The instagram post arose several days later, when both of you had the time to announce your engagement and simultaneously officialize the relationship between the two of you. It was your final hard launch after several years of soft launching and teasing the fans endlessly.

The picture the two of you chose was of Alessia on one knee in front of the fountain, both arms extended up to you with the ring box open in her hands. Your hands were on your face, the emotion that bled from the both of you prevalent in the photo. The caption for the photo was simple, “A thousand times, yes. Fiances at last.” 

The song that played in the background was the one that seemed to tie it all together, “The Feels” by Labrinth. The song and its lyrics reminded you of you terrified you’d been, standing at Alessia’s front door just before your first date, a shaky mess. You remembered wondering if you’d be hurt again, if dating again was worth the risk and suffering of yet another heartbreak. 

Now, as you laid next to your sleeping fiancé, you knew that the risk you had taken had been more than worth it. You would always be grateful to your younger self for taking that massive leap and choosing to trust Alessia Russo with your heart. Closing your eyes and laying back down beside the love of your life, you fell asleep with a smile of absolute satisfaction and love upon your face.

I just wanna know how the BAU team decides who says what when they deliver the profile each case.

Do they stand around in the conference rooms and assign certain parts of the profile like in group projects? Or do they have a specific order they follow each time with like the specific parts? I just wanna know.

Like imagine them telling the PD they were ready but take another 5 minutes arguing about who says what. I really wish we got to see this at some point.

And imagine when new agents like Alex and Cate come in, and they’re just watching this whole ordeal unfold during the case.

(yes i know it’s a TV show but for a second let’s pretend it’s real)