Ant and Dec One Shots

You're Insecure, Don't Know What For

It was a quiet evening backstage, just moments after the show had wrapped. Ant and Dec were laughing about a funny mishap that happened on set when Stephen walked in, a little quieter than usual, his eyes cast down and his smile barely there. His shoulders slumped as if carrying a weight only he could feel. Ant and Dec noticed immediately, their laughter fading as they exchanged a look.

"Hey, Stevie," Dec called softly, his voice gentle as he walked over, placing a hand on Stephen's shoulder. "You okay, mate?"

Stephen forced a small smile, brushing it off. "Yeah, I'm fine. Just... you know, a bit off, I guess."

Ant wasn't convinced and shared a knowing look with Dec. They both knew Stephen too well to let it slide. "C'mon, Stevie," Ant said, guiding Stephen to sit down on the couch with them. "We know you better than that."

Stephen sighed, glancing away, hesitant to admit what he was feeling. But with Ant and Dec's reassuring presence, he finally spoke, voice barely a whisper. "Sometimes... sometimes, I don't feel good enough. Like, I'm just tagging along with you guys, and people don't actually want me here."

Dec's heart ached hearing that, and he wrapped an arm around Stephen's shoulders, pulling him close. "Stephen, mate, you mean the world to us. Do you know how much brighter you make everything? There's no one else who could make us laugh like you do, or bring the same energy you bring."

Ant nodded, reaching over to give Stephen's hand a firm squeeze. "He's right. And it's not just about the laughs either. We love having you here because of who you are. You're kind, loyal, and you've always got our backs, just like we've got yours."

Stephen looked down at their hands, feeling a mix of gratitude and disbelief. "But you two are such a team. You're the reason people watch. I'm just... there, you know?"

Dec shook his head, his eyes warm and sincere. "We're a team, all three of us. When you're around, everything feels more complete, more fun, and just... better. We wouldn't have it any other way, Ste."

Ant leaned in, a soft smile on his face. "And don't forget, you're family to us. Not just on stage or in the spotlight - in life, too. We love you, Stephen, and we're so proud of everything you are."

Stephen's eyes started to shine, the weight on his heart lifting with each word they spoke. He felt himself smiling, a real, warm smile this time, as he looked at them both. "Thanks, lads. I... I don't think I say it enough, but I love you both too. You're like my brothers."

They pulled him into a tight hug, holding him close as the last of his insecurities began to fade. In that embrace, Stephen felt the truth of their words sinking in, the unwavering love and support that Ant and Dec had for him.

As they pulled back, Dec gave him a playful nudge. "Now, let's get you out of this mood. What do you say we head to yours for a movie night?"

Stephen grinned, feeling lighter than he had in days. "Only if I get to pick the film."

Ant laughed, patting him on the back as they stood up together. "Deal. As long as it's nothing too sappy."

And with that, the three of them walked out, Stephen's heart a little fuller, reminded that he was right where he belonged - with two people who loved him just as he was.