Chapter Text
June 16, 2024
Houston Dash 0 - ACFC 0
Houston, Texas
"Hey, AT, where's the fire?"
Alyssa slowed down when she heard the Houston keeper and captain call out to her, turning and yelping as Jane scooped her up. "Jane! Noo, no flying!"
"You sure, kiddo? Usually you love this game." Jane settled AT on her hip, an arm wrapped around her to keep her in place as the nineteen-year-old clung like a koala to the keeper's neck.
"No flying," AT repeated. "I don't want to play right now, Janey."
"What's up?"
"We lost, I mean we didn't lose but we almost lost, cause we lost the goal cause the camera was like--"
"Shh, shh, I know, I was there, right? I saw it go over the line. I know it went in," Jane said with a grimace. "I'm sorry, little."
"They said big Lyssa's she stopped went in from Sweden even after it bounced off her, and it was barely on the line! Ours really really went in, you stopped it with your feet after ," AT emphasized as Jane walked up and down the tunnel with her.
"I know, but babe, it wasn't my call."
AT rested her head on Jane's shoulder. "Uh huh but it's stupid.”
"Of course it's stupid, but we gotta suck it up, buttercup. Life isn't always fair," Jane said bracingly. "Are you going to be a good girl for me or are you gonna have a tantrum about something we can't change?"
"Not having a tantrum."
"No, you're not right now, no screaming, no crying, no kicking. Alright, that's fair. But you're having your little sulk, and I get it, you're disappointed. I'm not too happy myself."
"Uh huh."
Jane carried AT into the Houston locker room and sat down with the teen on her lap, rubbing her back. "You're okay babe. I know I'm not Lina, I'm not Aubs or Casey or especially big Lyssa, but I'm here for you kiddo, okay? Rivalries on the pitch should stop when the whistle blows. You can always come to me if you need me.”
"Lyssa!"
AT jumped and slid onto the bench next to Jane as a familiar form all but barreled into her. "Paige?"
"Little Lyssa, our AT, are you okay? Jane was carrying you, she--"
"Paige Kathleen Nielsen, where were you supposed to be just now?"
Paige squirmed guiltily. "In the corner, ma'am, but AT--"
"I've got her.”
"But Paige--"
"Was yellow carded and belongs in the corner until it's time for her spanking."
Paige flushed solid pink. "Cap!”
"It's no use arguing with Janey, Paige," AT sighed, grimacing. "But it must really suck having a keeper for a captain," she added under her breath as she followed Paige back to the older girl's corner.
"Well...it decreases the likelihood she'll actually send me for the paddle, I guess," Paige ventured, trying to find a bright side.
AT winced.
Jane grabbed a chair, joining them. “Do you want to talk about anything, AT?”
“I miss Paige. Lots,” AT sniffled. “Why did Houston have to take my friend away? Why do teams trade players away when they can’t say and it’s not fair? You won’t paddle her, will you Janey? Please?”
“I wasn't going to paddle her anyway, but I promise. I won't even give her all of the smacks she deserves with my hand, as I know from personal experience how a keeper's hand is extra hard, and I heard that your Ma'am will want a word so we agreed to split your smacks.” Jane said, partially turning to Paige, before turning back to AT. “I know losing frens can be hard, especially when we don't have a say, but we can hope for better in the future and maybe getting rid of the dang drafts.”
“Hope so,” AT sniffled, clinging to Paige. “It’s not fair Houston took her. Texas isn’t a good place for players like Paige. Or you. How come you stayed, Janey?”
“Cause Chris likes the fire department here and,” Jane paused for a second, blushing slightly,
“And?” AT frowned, snuggling under Jane’s arm now and trying to keep her attention away from Paige.
“Cause who else is gonna captain this team with the best players leaving?” Paige spoke up from the corner.
“She's right, though I do think we have some pretty good players coming in, Paige and Michelle certainly help, no one is going to complain about having smart people on the team, even if they sometimes make dumb decisions and get carded, hmm?”
“Alozie’s good,” AT conceded. “But that doesn’t help me miss Paige less,” she said quietly.
“You can come visit during the off-season, and don't forget we have video calls, hmm?”
“Yeah,” AT agreed with a little sniffle. “Okay.”
“Do you want to help comfort Paige while we get her smacks out the way, then maybe we'll dry our tears and go get ice cream?”
“And I can stay with you?”
“We'll see, we have to ask your Mamas first. But, we have to get some unpleasant business out of the way first, hmm?”
AT nodded reluctantly, giving Paige another protective hug. “Uh huh,” she said quietly. “Guess so.”
“Do you want to go first to show Paige my hand isn't scary, AT?”
“B-but I didn't get carded?”
“No, but I imagine all of your missed shots only exacerbated how it ended, and that impacted and is before we even discuss your tantrum that wasn't a tantrum, little one.”
AT swallowed nervously. “O-oh. I guess, Janey. But I’m sorry.”
“I know, and it won't be much, just five with my hand, then ice cream, promise.”
“Okay Janey,” AT sniffled and nodded. “I’ll be good for you. Can…can I have Claire from my bag?” She’d put the Highland coo plush, named after her Scot friend, in her sports bag today.
"Of course. Paige, grab Claire please.”
Paige chose that as permission to leave the Houston locker room and pop across the corridor to Angel City.
“Claire!”
Claire Emslie turned around and looked at her former teammate. “Paige?” The Scot followed after Paige quickly, picked up AT’s bag in the process, and the two girls returned to the Houston locker room.
She crossed the room to AT and handed the bag to her. The teen pulled out her plush toy and then threw herself into her teammate’s embrace. Paige wasn’t far behind, and Claire hugged them both tightly.
“Alright noo what’s goin’ on here?”
“Janey’s mad with Paige n’me.”
“Och aye?” Claire turned to regard Jane with an arch of her eyebrows. “That so?”
“Not mad, AT just needs a few smacks to release her feelings, though I am disappointed in Paige.”
“You said go get Claire, and I had to go get AT’s bag to get the other Claire anyways,” Paige pointed out in what she hoped sounded like a reasonable tone.
Claire Emslie gave a tiny eyeroll at her former teammate’s brat logic, opened AT’s bag and retrieved the plush, handing it to AT. “There ye are, darlin’. So then, since I’m here, perhaps it might be faster if you take yours and I take mine?” she asked Jane.
“Sounds good to me. Come here, Paige.” Jane patted her lap as she sat down on the bench.
Paige reluctantly went to Jane and put herself over the Captain’s lap. Claire sat down, too, and AT took up position over Claire’s lap. Claire had seated herself in a chair across from Jane, so that AT and Paige could see each other and clasp hands.
With everyone settled, the spankings began, Jane motioning Claire to stop after the promised five that had AT sniffling and then stopping herself a few moments later, Paige having gotten just ten for this part of her punishment.
When they finished, both girls were moved to a sitting position on their disciplinarians’ laps. Claire stroked AT’s hair gently, and AT exhaled slowly. “S-sorry was naughty and had tantrum that wasn’ really tantrum, Janey,” AT ventured, looking over at Jane.
“Sorry Captain,” Paige added.
“Had a wee bit of a paddy did you, well five’s enough for that,” Claire soothed AT, hushing her gently. “All right there, Paige?”
“I think,” Paige said quietly. “Only I think Cap might be telling ma’am and all.”
“She probably saw though, huh,” AT pointed out.
Paige groaned and nodded reluctantly.
Just then there was a knock on the door.
“Something tells me you might want to get that Paige.”
Paige swallowed nervously and answered it, to find her wife Jennifer Riservato on the other side.
“Erm, hello ma’am,” Paige said, trying not to wince. Jane’s smacks had definitely made an impression and she hoped Jen didn’t plan to add to it much.
“Ready to head home? I saw we have business to conclude, hmm? Not much, just enough.” She amended at Paige's pleading look. “Thank you for taking care of her, Jane. Nice to see you AT, Claire.”
“Actually, Ma'am though with how she was injured she shouldn't-”
“Jane smacked you, as was deserved, and I don't think you're in a position to be saying what she should or shouldn't be doing or tattling on her unless you want me to add extras, Paige Kathleen?”
“Janey, are you hurt?” AT asked worriedly before Paige could respond. Claire hugged AT and rocked her gently, soothing her worries.
“She looks fine to me, lass. Nice to see you again too, Jen.”
With that Paige and Jen left, leaving AT, Claire, and Jane.
“Okay, why don't you go back with Claire, grab your things and ask your Mamas really nicely if you can stay and I'll grab my stuff and meet you with Auntie Christine, okay?”
“Paige and Claire brought me my stuff, Janey,” AT said, looking at her bag. “But I guess we can go back to my Mamas together and wait for you.”
“Sounds good to me,” Claire nodded, squeezing AT’s shoulder gently.
That agreed upon, AT and Claire left and Jane set about gathering her stuff and making her way down the hallway.
It wasn't long until she ran into Christine, who was smiling as they got closer to each other.
“You were awesome out there.”
“Thanks, um we might have company tonight.”
“Oh?” Christine raised an eyebrow.
“AT asked about staying over and ice cream.”
“This is great news! You seem to have moved up the favorite keeper list.” Christine grinned.
Just then, Jane got a text.
Mamas said yes. Um, can Claire stay too? She’s missing Jonny a lot, like a lot, a lot.
Jane raised her eyebrows and showed the text to Christine. “What do you think, Chris?”
“We have room for one more.” Christine smiled.
Jane answered the text, Sure, Claire can stay too. Come on back, little ones.
They met up with AT and Claire, and AT all but dragged Claire back to Jane and Christine. “Ice cream now please?” she asked hopefully.
“Of course, any certain flavor requests?” Jane knew they had some flavors, but they might have to stop and buy a different flavor.
“I’d kill for a proper Scottish tablet, but since that’s unlikely, any chance of…” Claire trailed off, trying to figure out how to explain the flavour to this lot. “Maple pecan gelato? Do you lot even have gelato in this place?”
Christine turned to Jane with a grin. “How surprised do you think she'll be to learn we have a recipe?” She turned to Claire, “we can get you both, but have to stop for gelato, there's a shop not far. AT, any specific request ?”
“Not sure, maybe I’ll have an idea when we get there,” AT said, mulling it over..
“Alright, to the car then.”
After they got in Christine's car and made their way to the gelato shop, AT was surprised at the many flavors inside.
“See a certain flavor you want, little one? I see Claire’s Maple Pecan… and I'm partial to the vanilla.” Christine asked, looking at AT as they stood close in front of the counter. Jane was behind AT, while Claire was on the other side of Christine.
“Dulce de leche please,” AT said, deciding to pick something that she knew she would like. “Gracias, Tia Christine.” She accepted her gelato as Claire got hers, and Jane chose stracciatella.
Gelato purchased, they made their way back to Jane and Christine's and it was time for Scottish tablet ice cream making.
Claire was surprised when Jane not only had a recipe, but it actually looked correct.
It was even more surprising that they had Scottish tablet on hand to make it with.
“How the dickens did you come up with that?”
“Houston’s not the back end of nowhere even if the rest of Texas is, I guess,” AT suggested, “they might have a British food store or something like that.”
“Or Corsie might have sent us a supply because Rachie asked her to,” Jane corrected her assumption. “As well as the recipe for the ice cream.”
“Is all the Scottish tablet for the ice cream, or is there extra?” Claire looked at the packages hungrily, and Jane separated one out, sliding the bar her way.
“A bit extra, yeah.”
Claire practically tore the wrapper off, opening the fudgelike treat with the look of a starving woman. “Thank
god
a proper Scot sent some proper stuff down here, did she send the whisky to go in the ice cream too?”
“Yes and we’re
not
cracking that open for ‘extra’, Emslie.”
Claire deflated. “Can I have a nip when we make the mix?”
Jane snorted and looked at Christine.
“Only a small one. I can't have Riley thinking I got you drunk, or worse let you drink that much. And I don't want any whining for extra, understood? Do you want to tell Claire what happens to little girls who whine, Jane?”
Jane blushed hotly as she answered. “They get smacks.”
“That's right. Do we understand each other, Claire?”
“Yes ma'am.” Claire responded.
“Can we get started now?” AT asked.
“Of course, little one.”
Christine found the whiskey and poured Claire just a small shot as they began the process of combining all of the ingredients.
After blending the milk, eggs, and vanilla extract, it was time to add the Scottish tablet and just a wee bit of whiskey and then it was off to the freezer.
AT yawned. “Auntie Christine-” she yawned again. “Do you have any games to play while we wait ?”
“I do. It's called bedtime for sleepy little ones.”
“But the ice cream-”
“Will still be there when you get up. We're going to treat this like a late nap, okay?” Cause It would still be early back home for you and we can eat the ice cream, but if you're too tired, we can send you back with enough for a scoop for your hermanas and your Mamas as a thank you for letting you stay over. And yes, there's some for you, Claire.”
“But what about you and Janey, there won't be any left?”
“Don't worry about us, we have the recipe and more Tablet, okay? Now, who do you want to take your nap with, Janey and I or Claire?”
“Uh huh. Hmm, I don't know. Janey, but I don’t want Claire to be alone.”
“Hmm. Could you think of someone to keep Claire company?”
Oh! Claire!”
“Yes-” Claire trailed off when AT went to her bag.
The mini Press returned with her Highland Cow plush, Claire.
“Claire and Claire.” AT giggled.
“Thank you, AT.”
“Alright silly girl, to bed with you.” Jane led AT to the bathroom to handle her nighttime routine as Christine showed Claire to the guest room. As she turned to leave, Christine thought she saw a blush on Claire’s cheeks while she was holding the stuffed plush and she had a sneaking suspicion as to why.
Well, if we're missing a large portion of our milk at breakfast after Claire gets up for her treat, that will all but be confirmed.
As Christine entered her and Jane's bedroom, it was to find the young footballer in the middle of the bed, snuggled together with her wife and her side of the bed still open.
As she climbed in, AT turned to her, “Don't forget to set an alarm, Tia Christine.”
“I'm setting it right now.” Christine did set an alarm, but also set one for ten minutes earlier than that, assuming the younger footballer would still be asleep and it would be better to not wake her.
When AT woke up next and stretched she realized three things: she was hungry and she wasn't in the guest room with Claire, which also meant she hadn't got ice cream last night because she had planned to switch to rooming with Claire after the ice cream.
Oh, well. Maybe if I ask really nicely, I can have ice cream for breakfast.
“Tia Jane. Janey!”
At the louder whisper the keeper woke up.
“Yeah?” Jane whispered back.
“I need to get up.”
“Okay, let's get you up.” Jane helped AT out of bed, leaving Christine to sleep a little while longer.
While AT rushed to the bathroom, Jane took the moment to get dressed for the day.
When AT was finished Jane steered them down the hallway towards the kitchen.
As Jane opened the refrigerator, she noticed something weird. A large portion of the milk had disappeared. “Huh. That's weird, a bunch of milk is gone.”
“That's silly. Did you drink some in the middle of the night, Janey?”
“No. Did you, AT ?”
“Uh uh.” AT shook her head in the negative.
“Well, regardless, what would you like for breakfast?”
“Ice cream?” AT looked up at Jane with pleading eyes.
“Not unless you want Tia Christine to smack both of us before you leave today.”
“I heard my name.”
“Morning, Tia Christine! Did you drink all the milk?”
“Shh! Claire is still sleeping. No, I didn't, but I know who did.
AT thought it over. “Well if it was Christmas time I’d say Santa, but…” She frowned slightly. “Claire says there’s different kinds of elves than Christmas elves. Like Harry Potter elves but not cause she got them wrong, and they drink milk. Maybe you’ve got one of those?”
“Maybe, AT. But you know how Scarlett has a separate classification?” Jane asked gently.
“Uh huh, took forever for her to tell Captain Tia cause she was ashamed of being Lobo, people get weird about it I guess,” AT ventured.
“Well, Claire also has one, though it's not as present as Scarlett's and she did tell your captain Tia, but that was before you were on the team.”
“Oh. Uh huh,” AT looked pensively at Jane. “I can’t think of what Claire’s could be, don’t think I’ve ever seen it,” she offered, trying to think. “Will she be mad that you said?”
“I don't think so. But that's why I said if she's upset, Tia Christine might smack me.”
Christine grinned. “You don't have to give a reason, love.”
Jane blushed as Claire appeared from the hallway.
AT dashed over to Claire and hugged the older girl. “Claire! Guess what, the milk disappeared overnight, do you think that, um, what did you call them? The fairy things, got into it?” She knew what Janey had said but she didn’t want to tell Claire she knew if Claire didn’t want her to know. “Cause there was lots of it but now it’s almost all gone.”
“Umm, that was actually me, little one. You see…” Claire trailed off, unsure how to continue.
“...you just really like milk?” AT guessed, head tilted to one side.
“Yeah, I guess you could say that. You know how Scar took forever to tell Captain Tia, she has her P classification, well… she's not the only one.”
“Oh. That. Janey told me about that,” AT ventured. “She didn’t say what, just that you had one. But that’s okay, Scar has one too, obviously you know that. And Rose has one, and Emmy,” she offered.
“Uh huh. Can ye guess what it is? I'll give ye a hint.” Claire had Claire the Cow plush in her hand and showed AT the Highland Cow.
“Wow! That's cool! It's probably easier than some of the others and you can still watch over others cos it's not like Scar. But after the way the match went-”
“Alyssa Paola Press-Heath, that's enough.”
“Sorry, Tia Christine. Sorry Claire.”
“It's okay, wee lassie-mine.” That didn't mean Claire wasn't blushing though.
Claire handed Claire the plush back to AT as she moved to sit down.
AT accepted her plush back, but had a thought. If she hadn't been a gift from Gio, I would offer to let Claire keep her, but now I know what I will get her for a present! A cow plush!
AT sat down as well. “Janey, what's for breakfast?”
“Anything that doesn't need milk. The rest can be for Claire unless you want to leave early and eat breakfast elsewhere before we take you both back?”
“Oh, erm, can we do that? I’m sorry I drank most of your milk.” Claire was blushing a little.
“Can we Janey? What’s a good place to eat around here?” AT chimed in.
“It's okay Claire, today/tomorrow is for grocery shopping anyway and we knew that was a possibility so it's not a problem.” Christine turned to Jane. “Where should we take them, love?”
“Breakfast Klub, ma’am?” Jane suggested. “It’s one of Paige’s favorites since she’s come here, we might even run into her and Jen there.”
“Sounds good to me.”
Breakfast decided, they all climbed into Christine's car and headed to the “Breakfast Klub”.
When they entered, Paige immediately spotted them, running into AT.
“Little Lyssa!”
“Paige Kathleen Neilson-Riservato! What did I say about running into people?”
“It’s not people ma’am, it’s Little Lyssa,” Paige said absently. “And Claire, and Cap, and Chris. Come on, sit down with us.”
“You think they’re prepared for a two-top to become a six-top, Nielsen?” Jane inquired.
“Uh huh. Sides, there’s only two Tops.”
Jane looked at Christine, wondering if her wife and Jen would have anything to contribute.
“I would caution you to remember that my Jane still has a keeper's hand, Top or not, little girl.”
“I know you were trying to be funny, so I won't smack you for that, but don't think I won't do it here. We've been here enough that I don't think the owners would mind. But do pull up some chairs, we would love for you to join us.”
Christine, Jane, Claire, and AT joined Jen and Paige at their table, Claire and AT sitting on either side of Paige, who was across from Jen in the booth. Because of that, Christine and Jane ended up on either side of Jen, though AT wasn’t sure what they thought of that arrangement.
This didn't seem to bother Jane and Christine, after all they were apart days at a time, one person separating them was not a big deal.
“So, what's good here for a wee late breakfast?” Claire asked.
“Something with milk in it?” Paige suggested. “Or have you had enough?”
“Paige, that's strike two. I would be careful, I'm in the middle so you have to contend with either your Cap's keeper hand, or a Top whose partner you teased if you get to strike three. Apologize to Claire, please.” Jen might have said please, but it was a statement, not a question.
“Sorry ma’am,” Paige said. She looked at Claire, next to her, apologetically. “I’m sorry Claire. I was only joking, but I know I shouldn’t. Sorry.”
Claire gave Paige an exasperated smile. “Oh please, I’ve heard worse from Caro and Chloe. It’s nothing. But I appreciate the apology all the same.” She was referring to Caroline Weir and Chloe Arthur, her national teammates, who were among her closest friends and as such teased her the most often, since they could get away with it.
That comment forgiven, they started looking at the menus seriously in order to decide what they wanted to eat.
AT decided on pork chops and fried eggs, along with potatoes and juice.
It wasn't long before their food came and AT saw what everyone else had ordered.
Jane had ordered Biskits and Gravy, along with a side of fruit which got an approving nod from Christine, who ordered arguably the healthiest option, Eggs Benedict.
Paige had ordered pancakes, but had been undecided between that and waffles. Then AT saw Jen had gotten waffles and had asked for a second plate, indicating they would share.
AT watched them share and the grin on Paige’s face with a fond smile.
Then she started thinking about Gio doing the same and let out a sigh. One day I hope Gio and I can share food like that.
“What’s the matter, me braw lass?” Claire reached over Paige to squeeze AT’s hand. “All right then?”
“She’s missing Gio, I bet,” Paige said, getting a tearful sniff from AT.
“Uh huh, his captain’s been keeping him away for forever and it’s stupid.”
“I understand you're upset, but we don't call people stupid, little one. Their actions might seem mean, but don't call them stupid please. They probably have their reasons.” Christine tried to reprimand lightly.
Jane smiled like she just thought of something.
“What's the smile about, love?”
“Well, in the off-season, to take your mind off it you could always visit some people you don't see every day like Pinoe or your Tia Alex and you could even take it international and go watch Lindsey or Bąrca play and maybe end with a surprise visit to Gio! If he won't come to you, maybe go to him.”
“Though ask your Mamas first, I would hate to hear that you ran away to do this after getting the idea.” Christine looked at Jane from across Jen.
AT looked at Tia Christine in surprise. “Said the situation was stupid, not the captain. Though his decisions are stupid, Tia Christine,” she explained. “And I’m not gonna run away, I know better now. I’ll ask my Mamas if I can go visit my friends in Europe and see Gio though.”
“So I had a good idea?” Jane asked with a smile.
“Course you did Janey. Though I’m surprised Paige didn’t say it first, specially without asking my Mamas,” AT mused.
Paige heard her name and looked up with her mouth full of half chewed waffles. “Huh?”
“Paige Kathleen, chew and swallow that before you talk,” Jen reproved.
Paige obeyed, squirming. “Sorry. What, heard my name.”
“AT was saying she was surprised you didn't come up with Jane's idea yourself. Though I see that if my kryptonite is milk, yours must be carbs.” Claire teased her former teammate.
“Hey,” Paige pouted at that.
“Is she wrong though, love?” Jen asked.
When Paige pouted at her, Jen smiled affectionately. “How about I make it up to you with grilled cheese for supper?”
“Yes please ma’am,” Paige replied immediately, turning pleading eyes on her wife.
“And I'm guessing you wouldn't turn down homemade tomato soup and certain extras either, hmm?” Jen asked with a grin.
“Yes, please ma'am.” Paige nodded rapidly.
Jen looked at her watch. “Well, if you want all that we should probably tell everyone bye and head to the store.”
Paige sighed. “Yes ma’am,” she agreed reluctantly. “Can AT and Claire come with us?” She could see AT, at least, was reluctant to leave.
“Considering that you can take your ice cream with you,” Christine said looking at AT, “we can do that, but we need to be a little quick if we do, cause we still have to go back home before we bring you to your Mamas.”
“Uh huh,” AT nodded rapidly. “I’ll be good,” she promised.
With that decided they climbed into their respective cars, Christine following Jen to the local market.
By the time they had spent time inside and gathered the ingredients, Jane could see AT was almost dragging her feet, not wanting to leave.
“You know you can call or come visit anytime, right? And I bet you your Mamas and hermanas have been missing you.” Jane said with a smile.
“Uh huh, but it’s halfway across the country and I can’t just come whenever,” AT said reluctantly.
“That's true. You know, you know how Sam has “The Women's Game” now?” At AT's nod, Jane continued, “Well, a large part of that is getting people on who aren't near, how often do you see them using video call? A lot cause it's useful huh? I mean, sometimes their guests are across the country or even a different continent. I know this might sound like a lame answer that everyone has used before, but our phones can be used for more than just talking. But pro tip, don't use it if you are trying to surprise someone, they might figure out where you are from the background.”
“That’s when you try and call from cars or something. Not when you’re the one driving obviously,” AT added hastily. “Right?”
“That's right, cause that would be dangerous. But I meant also like FaceTime, if you're just in the locker room or your room and need someone to listen, we're here. All of us, even Tias Jen and Christine, despite how she has to sometimes reprimand Paige, Jen isn't as scary as she may seem.”
“I'm really not scary once you get to know me, maybe you should visit during the off-season and you can see that for yourself, with your Mamas’ approval of course.”
AT smiled, nodding at the suggestion.
However, when it was time to leave their fierce hugs, strained goodbyes, and tears. The only thing that kept AT from nearly having a tantrum was that Mama Tobin had called, wondering where they were.
Tia Jane was quick to apologize and said they had to pick up bags and a surprise, but would be by with AT shortly. The surprise of course being the ice cream in an ice chest.
Thirty minutes later, they were pulling up in front of the airport entrance where Tobin, Christen, and AT's hermanas were waiting.
After getting out and unloading everything, it was time for hugs all around.
“I know you will miss us, but remember we can talk whenever you need and it won't be long until the off-season, okay?”
“Uh huh. I'm going to miss you, love you, Janey.”
“Love you too, AT.” Jane wrapped AT in a tight hug before turning her towards Christine.
The retired footballer turned firefighter wasn't feeling as many emotions and tried to focus on the positives of the visit, getting Claire to join them for a moment. “I want you both to think about happy thoughts and plans and enjoy the ice cream and share it hmm?”
“Oh aye, I can do that. And if our wee lass,” Claire nodded in AT’s direction, getting a mock scowl from her teammate (who wasn’t the youngest anymore, that was for sure) “doesna start thinkin’ of happy thoughts, I’ll be happy to provide inspiration, or motivation if ye like.”
AT sputtered. “Claire!”
“Your choice darlin’.”
“I'll be good, promise. Holá, Mamas.” AT smiled, seeing her Mamas and hermanitas coming to them.
“Hello little love. Had fun with your friends, sweetheart?”
“Yes Mama Tobin, but can we bring Paige with us?” AT turned her gaze on Tobin.
Claire facepalmed.
“Paige has to stay here, little love. I don't think Houston would like us stealing her. Unless you can think of someone your Grandmere can trade for Paige?”
“No. No more trading people who don’t want,” AT glared. “It’s not fair.”
“You're right. It's not. Paige could do like your Mama and not play in protest, but I think she likes the game too much to try that.” Jane said with a small laugh.
“ Carolyn Jane Campbell-Nairn.”
“Ma'am?”
“Maybe don't offer solutions that only cause confusion.” Christine motioned to AT looking confused between her Mamas.
“You mean how Mama Tobin hasn’t come back yet?” AT ventured after thinking it over. “Because I really want her to come back to Angel City with Mama Christen.”
Christine looked at Tobin as if to say, If you don't want to explain, I will ask Jane to.” The “ask” being not so much a question.
Tobin returned Christine’s gaze with raised eyebrows. “She’s not talking about that, little love,” was all she said to AT about that.
“What's she talking about then?” AT asked with her head tilted.
“Yeah, what else could it be?” Gisele chimed in.
“Carolyn Jane,” Christine said firmly. “You opened your big mouth, you explain.”
“Umm, well the Chicago Red Stars traded your Mama Christen to the Dash, but your Mama understandably didn't like the culture so she decided not to show up.”
“Like at all?” AT asked.
“That's naughty. You always say running away, even if just from the problem is naughty, Mama Tobin.” Zoe chimed in.
Christen and AT exchanged looks, cheeks flushed.
“I do always say that, don’t I, Christen Annemarie?”
Christen sputtered incoherently.
“Thank you for reminding me, Zozo.” Tobin said.
Christen didn't miss the look from Tobin that said there would be a conversation later, but was thankful Tobin didn't tease her any more in front of the others.
Trying to change the subject, she turned towards Gisele and Zoe, “Well, are you all ready to head back home?”
“Yes, please Mama Christen, it's hot here.” Zoe said, leaning into her Mama Tobin. Even though Mama Christen had secretly made a deal to give her ice cream if she agreed in order to “get Lyssa moving towards the plane” It really was hot here too.
“Come on lass, let’s get ourselves in gear aye?” Claire kept her hands firmly on AT, steering her after the other Preaths after Alyssa reluctantly said goodbye to Jane and Christine.
Tobin made sure they had their bags, plus the ice chest with the ice cream packed inside, which Claire was eyeing possessively.
After making it through TSA surprisingly easy, they were on the plane and in the air on time.
By the time they were back in LA, it was Supper time and when they exited the airport both AT’s and Claire’s stomachs grumbled.
“Would you like to stay over for Supper and then we’ll divide the ice cream, Claire? What do we think about La Azteca Tortilleria?”
“That’s my ice cream thank you ma’am,” Claire murmured, but she nodded. “La Azteca sounds good to me,” she said in a more normal voice. “The ice cream has a nip of whisky in it,” she added.
“I didn't know, but we have our regular ice cream at home anyway.” Tobin amended with a smile.
Claire smiled back in acknowledgement and they found the car and headed to the beloved taco restaurant.
After half an hour, and placing and receiving their order, they finally arrived home.
Claire took the ice cream box and followed Tobin, Christen, AT, Gisele, and Zoe inside. The girls were carrying the luggage along with them (Christen was holding Claire’s) and Claire made a beeline for the freezer.
Tobin was right behind her with the La Azteca bag.
After making sure her ice cream was safe in the freezer, Claire turned back towards the kitchen table as the food was being distributed.
After tacos were had it was now time for ice cream.
As Claire took hers out of the freezer, Christen grabbed the other flavors for the rest of them.
When she went about serving the ice cream, Christen made sure to put an extra half scoop in Zoe’s bowl. An action that didn't go unnoticed by Tobin.
“Christen Annemarie. Care to explain?”
“Umm..”
“It's a secret, Mama Tobin.” Zoe answered for her Mama, as if this was the most obvious thing in the world.
“Uh huh.”
After enjoying their ice cream and excited that Claire was visiting, it was decided that they were going to play multiple rounds of “sardines” - sort of reverse hide and seek.
After four rounds with AT winning two, Zoe one and Claire one, it was decided it was time for bed when Zoe and Claire both fell asleep before the next round could be started.
A blanket fort was put up in the living room, with the Press-Heath girls and Claire curled up together so Tobin and Christen could rest assured the girls were looked after.
Tobin, after all, had to talk privately with Christen. Best not to have the smols interrupt.
“I want you to go find a corner to put your nose into your corner in our room, and I'll be there shortly and we can sit on the bed and talk about what happened and what's going to happen, okay?” Tobin said softly, but in a firm voice. The girls might have been asleep, but the kitchen was only one room over from the family room.
“Yes ma’am,” Christen replied softly, not arguing it. She left the kitchen and went back to her and Tobin’s bedroom. One of the corners away from the door had a meditation kneeler in it and Christen sank to her knees on the padded cushion, grateful for the support. She closed her eyes, breathing in and out slowly.
Unbidden, the road to Santiago rose in her mind, the feel of earth and grass under her bare feet, the pilgrimage that had centered her and helped her find her peace. She sank into the vision, breathing in and out, and waiting.
Tobin meanwhile made sure all the food was put away and checked on the girls in the family room (they were all asleep) before making her way to her and Christen's bedroom.
When she closed the door behind her, Tobin had to stop and take in the picture before her. No matter how many times she saw Christen like that, raw and vulnerable, it took her breath away every time.
“You know, even when you’re naughty you're still beautiful to me.” Tobin said, announcing her presence as she moved to sit on the bed.
“Come here please, Christen Annemarie.” Tobin patted the spot next to her.
Christen rose to her feet, wincing just a little as she straightened up. There was a roll-on of BioFreeze in the basket by her meditation cushion, and she used it on her knees now, just to relieve the bit of soreness from maintaining her position for too long.
Then she put the roll-on back, and went directly to Tobin, sitting next to her.
“So, why are we here, right now?”
Christen frowned slightly. “Because you asked me to be here, ma’am?” she replied.
Tobin laughed softly. “Yes, but I meant, what exactly have you done recently to warrant a spanking, Christen?”
Christen sucked on her lower lip nervously. “Um…” Figures, I should have been thinking about that, instead I got lost in how beautiful Spain was. Not half as beautiful as Tobin, obviously, but still. “I’m…not sure, ma’am?” she offered. “Is it maintenance time?”
“Sadly, it's more than just that. What kind of example do you think you set for our girls from them learning you ran away from a problem?”
Christen’s eyes widened. “Tobin, I--That was…I thought we’d already sorted that out,” she protested anxiously.
“Yeah, but there’s getting it over with originally, and then there’s showing you’ve learned from it, and it’s not like you volunteered the information Christen Annemarie.”
Christen winced. “You sound like Tyler. Or Mama.”
“Thank you.” Tobin grinned. “And let's not forget about giving Zoe extra ice cream. What was that about exactly?”
This question caused Christen to sag in relief. “Oh. That,” she said with a small smile, tension leaving her. “That wasn’t anything, Tobin, ma’am. I just promised Zoe a bit of extra ice cream if she’d help us get Alyssa to come with us without fussing too much. Mama used to say that to me and Channing if Tyler was being difficult.”
“That's actually pretty smart. Stanford degree at work.” Tobin grinned. “Though you did remind me it's time for maintenance so that’s the other part of this. For now though, we'll start with just my hand.”
Christen sighed. “Yes ma’am,” she agreed obediently, not wanting to risk any further trouble.
“Shh, it'll be over before you know it. Soonest begun, Soonest over.” Tobin patted her lap, “Over you go.”
When Christen had settled herself as comfortably as possible, Tobin reached for her waistband, taking down her pants and underwear at the same time, and getting a whine in response.
“Please, ma’am…”
“Shh, I need to see what I'm doing. You really are in need of this spanking, hmm?”
“I…I don’t want to have to need it,” Christen said meekly.
“Understandable, but it's okay that you do. I'm starting.” That was all the warning Christen had before Tobin's hand smacked down on her bare bottom, again and again, until it was just the faintest bit of pink and a few tears were gathering in her lashes. Tobin paused, rubbing her back. “Whenever you're ready I want you to stand up for me. Take your time.”
Christen sucked in a breath, and took a few moments to collect herself before slowly standing up. “Yes ma’am.”
“Now it's time for part two. Go get it, Christen Annemarie.’
Christen returned to her corner by the kneeler, and reached into the basket again, rummaging around. Not too long; she didn’t want to be accused of time-wasting, obviously, but if she lingered just a
little
over finding the short strap that resided there, she was sure Tobin could forgive her that much.
Reluctantly, she withdrew the implement, soft leather dyed in Cardinal red, with the outline of the Stanford bird maintaining a Football Ferns feather in its beak etched into the handle, and returned to Tobin with it.
Ali gifted me this as a graduation gift. Tops, why must they be like that, she reflected. Of course Tobin thought it was hilarious.
“Thank you, good girl.” Tobin said with a smile, accepting the implement and helping Christen to settle back over her lap. “Okay, Chris, it’s going to be fifteen. Six softer to ease you into it, six more medium strength, and the last three will be the hardest, but they won’t be terribly awful even so, all right? I know what you can bear, don’t I?”
Christen exhaled and nodded. “Yes ma’am.”
“And if it gets to be too much even so, what will I hear from you, love?”
She closed her eyes and took another breath. “Santiago.”
“All right then.”
With that the first smack landed, and Christen jolted a little just because it had been a minute since she needed to feel the strap.
The next five crossed the middle part of her bottom without any problems. Then Tobin was rubbing Christen's back.
“Okay, time for the next set, love. Deep breath.”
When Christen exhaled, Tobin brought the strap down again, this time with medium strength.
By the time these were over, Christen was struggling to stay still.
Again, Tobin rubbed her back, pausing a second. “Okay, these will hurt the most. Do you want to count as something to do or are you okay?”
“I can count, ma’am,” Christen said once she had caught her breath.
She yelped as the first hard stroke burned her sit spots, not having expected it there. “Oww, one, ma’am.”
Tobin tilted her forward and locked her legs between hers so Christen didn't aggravate her previous injury.
Then she brought the strap down on her sit spots once more.
“T-two, ma’am!” Christen stifled the yelp with her hand, covering her mouth.
The next swat was lighter, but that was because of placement as the strap came down on Christen's thighs this time.
“T-three, oww,” Christen whimpered. Lighter the stroke might have been, but on her tender thighs, it still counted for a lot. “S-sorry, ma’am.”
Tobin wasn't mean enough, and more importantly the crime didn't fit the punishment for another stroke, so while she rubbed Christen's back with one hand, she put the strap down on the end table with the other.
“Shhh, we're all finished. My good girl, you took your maintenance so good. I'm proud of you.”
“So well, ma’am,” Christen couldn’t help correcting her Top.
“Oh so you don't want some arnica is what I'm hearing?” Tobin teased back.
Christen squeaked and looked at Tobin with pleading eyes. “Please may I have the arnica ma’am, I’m sorry for being impertinent.”
“Part of you isn't, but I love you anyway. I know that was a little rough and I'm sorry. It's obvious your bottom is out of condition and that's my fault. It's been an adjustment to try to find time for maintenance with all the kiddos now. Can you hop up for just one second so I can grab the cream?”
Christen nodded and slowly got to her feet, wincing. She resisted the urge to cover her sore bottom (an inclination Ali had never quite trained out of Kelley, but that was another matter) and held her hands obediently at her sides.
Christen was still thinking about that and Kelley's maintenance when Tobin returned.
“What are you thinking about in that big, beautiful brain?” Tobin asked, sitting back down.
Christen hurriedly put herself back over Tobin’s lap, resting her head on her folded arms. “Just thinking about Stanford, since Ali gave me that thing,” she said slowly. “Kelley has one too, you know, but Ali had to use hers more often than mine.”
“No surprise there.” Tobin chuckled lightly. She began spreading the cream, applying a generous layer on Christen's bottom before adding more all the way down to her thighs. That done, she closed the tube and set it aside also. “On or off? I can lock the door.”
“Off please ma’am,” Christen yawned, drowsing a bit. “I’d like privacy from our girls but I don’t want them to panic either if they can’t reach us…” she worried.
“They have Claire and phones, love.”
“True,” Christen agreed. “Will you text Claire to make sure in case they don’t think of that?”
“I can, I'll do that right after I lock our door. But first do you trust me?”
Christen almost rolled her eyes. “Yes, of course I do. Why exactly?”
“Just wrap your arms around me.”
Christen obeyed, wrapping her arms around Tobin and wondering what exactly her Top had in mind.
“1…2….3.” Tobin whispered before picking up Christen in a ‘bridal carry’, getting a little yelp out of her. She quickly turned and softly laid Christen on the bed turning her on her side. With a kiss to Christen's forehead, she turned around and went to lock her door.
Turning around, Tobin headed back to the bed and sat down and texted Claire before laying down herself. Gently she coaxed Christen to lay on top of her, keeping Christen's warmed bottom from having to touch the bed.
Christen snuggled close to Tobin as she lay on top of her, nuzzling Tobin’s neck gently. “Mmm,” she sighed in contentment, glad Tobin wasn’t putting pressure on her bottom now.
“Shh, sleep. I'll wake you when the girls are up, love.” As much as Tobin wanted to hold Christen's bottom, she settled for stopping at her love's lower back, not wanting to put unnecessary pressure on her bottom.
Christen yawned and nodded into Tobin’s shoulder, letting Tobin soothe her to sleep. Her last thought before drifting off was that she hoped she hadn’t woken the girls.
Tobin wasn't far behind her, the feeling of Christen on top of her soothing her to sleep.
Meanwhile back in Houston……
After leaving the airport, a trip to the grocery store, and a nice light supper at home, Jane was now relaxing on the couch.
“I'm not going to deprive you of dessert, but before bed I want you to put your nose in your corner.” Christine said quietly, not wanting to shock her wife anymore than she knew the statement already would.
Jane groaned, but she went to the corner in the kitchen obediently, standing quietly with her face to the wall and her hands clasped behind her back, fingers interlaced. She didn’t dare offer any more protest to her wife than that, lest her Top rethink taking away the ice cream.
Christine laughed to herself as she stood and headed for the kitchen. She looked towards her wife as she sat down at the kitchen table. “Love, can you come here, please.”
Jane turned around and slowly made her way to the kitchen table, eyeing Christine warily. “Yes ma’am.”
“Sit, love. It seems it's been too long since we've done this if you're forgetting the order of things. The ice cream wasn't an ask for you to go to a corner now. We always did dessert first then got ready for bed, then maintenance, hmm? It seems I need to remember to do this more often, but that's on me.” Christine smiled, getting up to take the ice cream out and let it defrost.
Jane blushed and ducked her head. “Sorry ma’am,” she sighed, rubbing her forehead with her knuckles. “I guess I’ve just been…dealing with a lot.”
Immediately Jane wished she could take those words back, because dealing with a lot and not telling your Top about it so she could help you deal was a good way to earn yourself a red bottom. And she had maintenance coming as it was. Which, she realized now, was obviously overdue. Shit.
“Oh? Care to share with your wife and Top, Carolyn Jane?”
Jane cringed. “Can you please make it sound less like you’re mad with me, ma’am?” she pleaded.
“I'm not mad, disappointed, a little bit, but not mad, love. What have you been keeping inside?” Christine attempted to soften her tone.
“It was a scoreless draw,” Jane stared at her hands. “I wanted us to win, not to finish like that. What’s Emma going to think of me if I’m unable to lead my team to winning games? She knows Daly and Mewis, she knows they were better than me before they left--”
Realizing how she sounded, Jane snapped her mouth shut.
“Look at me. You could not play another minute on a pitch and you would still be the best keeper in my eyes. I have always thought that you being on this team was a positive, think about it differently. Emma can also see that you managed to keep it a scoreless draw. That's important too. The major tournaments have group stages where ties aren't the end of the world. And as far as the team, well Chicago finished bottom of the table last season, Lyssa was still chosen. Don't let that stop you. And if you want to go to a different team, say the word. However, I don't like hearing you put yourself down. If I hear that again I will soap your mouth, understood?”
Jane paled. “Yes ma’am, understood. However, I would like to point out that it was James who said they were better than me.”
“ Hey, we talked about this. Do not let He-Who-Shall-Not-Be-Named take up any space in that beautiful brain. You aren't worse than them. If anything, you are better than them and it's not even a contest.”
“You’re biased. Ma’am.”
“That is true. But we can also still treat him like Bruno, we don't talk about them.”
Before Jane could respond, Christine realized it was time for the ice cream and set about dishing them both a portion.
Jane sighed and sat down to eat ice cream with Christine. “I’ve been thinking about how AT said it was unfair for people to get traded away from each other. She’s not wrong, you know.”
“I agree…. What are you cooking up in that big, beautiful brain of yours?”
“Nothing, really, ma’am. Just wishing I knew how to fix things so that they weren’t unfair,” Jane sighed, scraping the last of her ice cream out of her bowl and stabbing the bottom of the empty bowl rather more sharply with her spoon than was necessary.
“I know it's frustrating. Not the same but there are always a few calls a year that I wish would be different circumstances, either after or sometimes even before we enter the picture. Life isn't fair, sadly. Damaging the bowl isn't going to help, love.”
“Sorry ma’am.” Jane dropped the spoon in the empty bowl and pushed it away from her, resting her elbows on the table and cradling her head in her hands with a sigh.
“Hey, come here, please.”
Jane got up, coming to stand next to Christine as she wasn't sure what Ma'am wanted.
“Sit please.” Christine said, pulling her wife to sit on her lap. “Do you trust me?”
“Of course I do,” Jane replied at once, feeling a little hurt - and ashamed of herself - that she’d made Christine have to ask. She leaned into Christine, resting her head on her wife’s shoulder.
“So, if you trust me, why are you this worried about a little maintenance? It's not a punishment spanking, and even if it was I wouldn't deal with both on the same night, especially with your bottom so out of condition, love.”
Jane blushed. “I’m sorry ma’am. I didn’t mean to,” she admitted quietly. “It’s just…like you said, being out of condition.”
“Hmm, how about we go back to the beginning, and I use just my hand, but the smacks will firm up. Then we just look at it , for next time, which will be sooner than this one i promise you, just like all those years ago. Does that sound better?”
“Yes ma’am,” Jane nodded, feeling relieved by that.
“Now, since that is agreed upon and you went to the corner when I hadn't intended for you to, I'm not going to make you go to the one in our room, no matter how much I enjoy seeing you in it. Now, do you want to walk or do you want me to carry you there, my little bear?”
“Carry please?” Jane asked. Only Christine could call her ‘little bear’ like that, and she was relieved to hear it. It meant ma’am wasn’t angry with her.
“Of course. Grab onto my neck. 1, 2, and 3.” As Jane did as asked, Christine easily picked her up in a bridal carry, making her way to their room quicker than either of them would have walked.
As she set Jane down on the bed she couldn't help but smirk. “This reminds me of our wedding night, except then it was a punishment spanking, I believe?”
Jane blushed hotly. “I…yes ma’am. Though, at least it wasn’t for pulling the pins out of my hair like a certain defender on her wedding night.” She’d heard that story from Ashlyn Harris, though she and Christine weren’t quite as close to the former keeper as they used to be.
Besides, Jane felt too sympathetic for Ali’s position to be really smug about that.
“Alright, are you ready, Carolyn Jane?”
“Yes ma’am.”
Christine sat down, pulling Jane over her lap. “Lift up for me, I need to see what I'm doing, love.”
Jane lifted her hips, closing her eyes as her wife bared her bottom. She wished, on one hand, that Christine didn’t have to do it this way, but it was logical, so she couldn’t really argue the point.
Bottom now bare, Christine gave it a few love taps as she asked, “How old are you, Carolyn Jane?”
“Twenty-nine, ma’am,” Jane said, trying to keep any hint of sass out of her tone. She knew Christine knew, but she also knew Christine had to ask. It was part of the ritual.
“Then that's what it'll be, and one to grow on, only those ten will be the hardest. Softest ten first, deep breath okay? Color?”
Jane took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “Green, ma’am.” She was okay with this. It was inevitable. But she was over ma’am’s lap, and safe.
With that the first ten smacks came down, not more than love pats.
Jane hadn't been told to count aloud, but she did so in her head to give her something to do.
“Ready for the next ten, love?”
Jane took another deep breath and let it out slowly. “Yes ma’am.”
Christine went just a little slower with these, the medium smacks bringing tears to Jane's eyes, but none had yet to fall.
“Color?” Christine asked, rubbing her wife's back.
Jane took a couple more deep breaths and relaxed as best she could. “G-green, ma’am.”
“ Tsk, that sounds closer to yellow. What's wrong, love? Too many smacks in the same place?”
“Maybe, ma’am,” Jane said reluctantly. “I’m lnot really sure, but probably something like that,” she offered. She wasn’t sure why she still felt so unsettled.
“Okay, I'm going to go lower and these will be the hardest ones, but maybe a good cry is what you need to help articulate what's wrong okay?”
“Yes ma’am,” Jane sniffled. Christine was probably right; she usually was.
“ Tsk, relax back here, little girl.” It seemed Jane had reflexively tensed up despite agreeing.
Jane took another deep breath and did her best to relax. “Sorry ma’am.”
“I'm starting. These, I would like you to count.” That was all the warning Jane got before the next smack landed on her sit spots.
“Ow, one ma’am,” Jane couldn’t help the yelp that escaped her lips but she counted the smack obediently.
Smacks two through five alternated between the sit spots and were in rapid succession.
“Two, three, four, five, ma’am,” Jane choked out, trying to count each one properly and not really having the time to do it.
“Good girl. Ready to finish the ones at the bottom? Only four more down here .” Christine emphasized the last word, moving just a bit lower to her love's thighs.
Well, I guess the ones at my bottom are finished then, Jane thought but didn’t let the sardonic quip slip out. “Yes ma’am,” she responded as calmly as she could, after catching her breath.
The next smack landed on her left thigh, getting a loud yelp and a tear finally falling.
“Ow, six ma’am!” Jane sobbed.
The next three came down rapidly, Christine realizing quicker was probably better at this point.
In response, Jane's feet drummed on the bed as if she was on a swim team and the tears were now flowing freely.
“Seven, eight, n-nine ma’am,” Jane sobbed when she found her voice again.
“Shh, it's okay. We're all finished, love. Did you figure out what was bothering you?” Christine asked softly.
“N-not sure ma’am,” Jane confessed. “Feel b-bad that I d-didn’t, like I failed. Failed you.”
‘Hey! You can never fail me, Carolyn Jane Campbell-Nairn. No matter what. If there's a problem we work through it, but you have never, and will never, be a failure in my eyes.” Christine cupped Jane's burning bottom for emphasis.
Jane sniffled. “Still sorry I couldn’t figure it out,” she said anxiously. But almost as soon as she said it, she reviewed the words in her head. I feel like I failed Christine, because I kept things to myself, because I feel like the match was a failure…oh.
“Never a failure, ma’am?” she ventured. “B-because I think…I think maybe that was it. I thought…I thought I did.”
“We can't control our thoughts, but that doesn't mean they are always true. Sometimes our mind plays tricks on us and I think after everything with the match that's what happened, hmm? But, that is not true. And if you have any more thoughts like that I want you to come to me ASAP, okay?”
“Yes ma’am. I promise,” Jane said at once, nodding. “Thank you.”
“Okay, grab on one more time, I'm going to lay you on your side so I can grab some arnica okay?”
“Okay.” Jane nodded and clung to Christine as instructed. She hissed through her teeth as her wife shifted her onto her side, but it wasn’t as though the movement wouldn’t hurt, and when Jane was settled down again she tried her best to relax.
Christine was quick to grab the arnica, and made her way back to her wife.
She made sure to apply more than enough, using most of the tube and applying two separate coats. The only thing was during the second application, Christine took her time, savoring the moment and making sure she covered everything that she previously swatted.
Jane tried not to squirm impatiently, giving a fondly exasperated sigh as it was obvious her wife and Top was taking longer than strictly necessary. “It must be a Top thing,” she muttered, giving a minute eyeroll. “Hannah was right.”
“What about, love?”
“Oh, last time we had her in the keeper suite, she was saying how the Frenchie likes playing with her bottom,” Jane said.
“No, she's not wrong. I.. can say at least for me, there's something grounding and therapeutic about it. If I had a bad day or bad thoughts like yours earlier, I know one thing for certain: your bottom is mine and only mine.”
That said, Christine let Jane’s bottom be and hopped into the other side of the bed.
Pulling her wife close, Christine said softly, “Sleep now, you're safe my little bear.”
Jane was asleep in minutes, with Christine joining her moments later.