guilty as sin? (tayvis)

'cause when you're 35

(1/3)
December 13, 2024

The day had started like any other—quiet and unassuming—but as Taylor woke up to the soft light filtering through the curtains of their home, she knew today wasn't just any day. It was her birthday. And this year felt different. She couldn't quite place why, but there was a warmth in her chest, a sense of calm that hadn't always been there before. Maybe it was because this was her first birthday after such a monumental year—a year that had changed everything.

She rolled over in bed, her eyes landing on the man who had become her constant. Travis was still asleep, his arm draped protectively over her waist, his breathing slow and steady. They had spent so many mornings like this over the past year, but today, there was a special significance to it. She smiled, feeling the familiar swell of affection that always washed over her when she looked at him.

Just then, as if sensing her gaze, Travis stirred, his eyes fluttering open. He blinked a few times, groggily registering the fact that she was awake, and then a slow grin spread across his face.

"Morning, birthday girl," he murmured, his voice thick with sleep as he tightened his hold on her.

Taylor laughed softly, her heart skipping at the sound of his raspy morning voice. "Morning."

He leaned in, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead, and she closed her eyes, savoring the simplicity of the moment. They didn't need extravagant plans or a big celebration. This—waking up next to him, feeling his warmth—was enough.

"You ready for your big day?" he asked, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

She raised an eyebrow, her curiosity piqued. "You make it sound like there's a surprise waiting for me."

Travis chuckled, clearly pleased with himself. "Let's just say... I may have something up my sleeve."

Taylor smiled, already imagining what he might have planned. He had a way of surprising her, of making the most ordinary moments feel extraordinary. And today, on her birthday, she had a feeling he'd outdone himself.

As they lay there, tangled up in each other, she couldn't help but reflect on how much had changed since her last birthday. A year ago, they were just beginning to navigate their relationship in the public eye, juggling their careers and finding stolen moments between their hectic schedules. It had been a whirlwind, but they had come out stronger on the other side. Now, they were settled into something that felt deeper—more real. Travis was her anchor, her best friend, and the love of her life, and as crazy as their lives got, that never changed.

Eventually, they made their way out of bed, the scent of coffee filling the kitchen as Taylor padded around in one of Travis's oversized hoodies. He watched her from across the counter, a fond smile playing on his lips as she hummed to herself, her movements relaxed and carefree.

"So," she said, pouring a mug of coffee and turning to him, "are you going to give me any hints about what you've got planned for today?"

Travis pretended to think for a moment, leaning back against the counter with his arms crossed. "Mmm, nope. Not a single hint."

Taylor pouted, crossing her arms in mock annoyance. "Not even a little one?"

He shook his head, laughing at her playful frustration. "You'll just have to wait and see. But I promise, it's going to be good."

And so, the morning unfolded in its own time. They had breakfast together, talking about the year behind them and the one ahead. Travis's NFL season was still in full swing, but they'd made a point to prioritize these moments—the small, quiet ones that grounded them.

By mid-afternoon, Taylor still hadn't guessed what Travis had in store for her. She tried to pry it out of him with sweet smiles and coy questions, but he held his ground. Eventually, he took her hand and led her out to the car, refusing to tell her where they were going.

After a short drive, they pulled up to a cozy cabin tucked away in the woods, surrounded by tall trees dusted with a light layer of snow. It was breathtaking, the perfect mix of serene and romantic, and Taylor gasped as she took in the sight.

"Travis, this is beautiful," she said, her voice filled with awe.

He grinned, clearly pleased with her reaction. "I thought you might like it. We've both been so busy lately, and I figured a little escape for your birthday would be perfect."

They spent the rest of the day at the cabin, enjoying the quiet and each other's company. Travis had gone all out—he'd packed her favorite snacks, set up a cozy bonfire outside, and even brought along a guitar for her to play later. It was simple, thoughtful, and everything Taylor hadn't realized she needed.

As the sun began to set, they sat together by the fire, the warmth of the flames warding off the chill in the air. Taylor leaned into Travis's side, feeling completely at peace. It was one of those rare moments where the outside world didn't intrude—just the two of them, alone with their thoughts and the crackling of the fire.

"I don't think I've ever had a birthday quite like this," Taylor said softly, her voice filled with contentment.

Travis wrapped an arm around her, pulling her closer. "Good. That was the goal."

They sat in comfortable silence for a while, watching the flames dance in the fire pit. And then, after a while, Taylor reached for the guitar, her fingers brushing over the strings lightly as she began to play. It wasn't a planned performance—just a quiet, intimate moment shared between the two of them.

Travis listened, his heart swelling with pride and love as her soft voice filled the night air. She played a few of her old songs, the ones that had been with her through every phase of her life, and as she sang, she found herself lost in the music, in the warmth of the fire, and in the feeling of being completely and utterly happy.

When she finished, Travis leaned over and kissed her, the kind of kiss that said everything words couldn't. And in that moment, Taylor knew—this was the kind of love she had always hoped for. The kind that didn't need grand gestures or big declarations. The kind that was built on quiet moments, trust, and a deep, unwavering connection.

As the night wore on, they stayed by the fire, talking about the future, laughing about the past, and simply enjoying the present. Taylor had no doubt that this was just the beginning of many more birthdays spent with Travis by her side.

And that was the best gift of all.

—-

for now on, we'll have like four chapters of full happiness yay!

10k readers 😩 thank you sm for the support!!!

i just posted my new story 'wildest dreams' why don't you go take a look, uh?

loads of love xx.