Throughout the week, Dec kept up his quiet support, sensing that Ant needed more closeness but wasn't quite ready to talk about what was on his mind. Dec knew when to be near him without making it obvious, always offering silent reassurance with soft gestures. He'd give Ant a gentle squeeze on the shoulder in between takes or brush his hand across Ant's back in passing, subtle reminders that he was there.
Dec also made sure to be around outside of work without making it feel too intrusive. A few times, he invited Ant over to his house, saying he had dinner ready or had saved Ant's favourite spot on the couch. And whenever Ant arrived, Dec would greet him with a warm smile and pull him in for a lingering hug, rubbing his back in soothing circles until he felt Ant relax in his arms.
One evening, Ant surprised Dec by leaning in during one of their hugs and pressing a kiss to Dec's cheek, a quiet gratitude that spoke volumes. Dec smiled, kissing him softly back on the temple, then pulled him down to sit together on the couch, wrapping his arm around Ant and keeping him close. They'd sit in silence, just resting against each other, Dec occasionally planting a soft kiss to Ant's forehead, letting him know it was okay to just be.
Over the next few days, Ant found himself instinctively seeking out Dec more and more, letting himself lean into the comfort Dec so freely gave. At first, he'd simply sit close to Dec, eventually allowing himself to rest his head on Dec's shoulder. But as the days went by, Ant would come to Dec's house or office and, without a word, wrap his arms around him, nestling into his shoulder, wordlessly asking for comfort.
Dec would always respond with open arms, gently holding Ant, stroking his hair or tracing small circles on his back, letting Ant know that he was safe. If they were sitting, Ant would sometimes pull his legs up onto Dec's lap, curling up against him like he wanted to be wrapped in his warmth completely. Dec would chuckle, wrapping his arms around him and pressing light, affectionate kisses to Ant's forehead or cheek, basking in the closeness.
At work, Dec continued his quiet reassurances too. When he saw Ant's shoulders tense or noticed that far-off look in his eyes, he'd reach over and squeeze his hand or gently rub his back, grounding him without words. Sometimes, Dec would simply stand by Ant's side, offering his presence like a quiet shelter. Ant would turn his head and rest his cheek against Dec's shoulder, savouring the simple contact, letting himself lean into the support.
At night, after work, Ant often lingered longer than usual at Dec's place. They'd end up on the couch, with Ant resting against Dec's chest, Dec's arms wrapped around him protectively. Dec would softly kiss the top of Ant's head, whispering now and then, "I'm here, love. I'm not going anywhere." He'd run his fingers through Ant's hair, soothing him until he felt Ant's breathing slow, as if the weight he'd been carrying was lightening in Dec's embrace.
One rainy night, Ant showed up at Dec's door, a little out of breath and with a tentative look on his face. Without hesitation, Dec pulled him into a long, warm hug, feeling Ant relax immediately in his arms.
They sat on Dec's couch, nestled close as always, and this time, Ant finally found the words he needed. "I've just... felt so alone, Dec," he whispered, eyes cast downward. "My anxiety's been creeping back, and I don't know, it just feels like everything's been piling up."
Dec wrapped both arms around him, pulling him even closer, pressing a kiss to his temple. "Ant, you're never alone," he murmured, his voice gentle and reassuring. "I'll always be here, no matter what. Whatever you're feeling, I'm right here with you."
Ant took a shuddering breath, closing his eyes and letting Dec's words settle over him like a balm. Dec rubbed his back softly, his kisses drifting from Ant's temple to his cheek, and then to his lips, leaving a lingering, reassuring kiss that spoke of love and unwavering support.
After a moment, Dec gently brushed a strand of hair from Ant's face and asked, "How about we just take the night to relax? No worries, no expectations. Just you, me, and some really bad movie choices."
Ant managed a small, grateful smile. "I'd like that."
Dec ordered all of Ant's favourite comfort foods, piling the coffee table with takeaway bags and snacks. They curled up on the couch, Ant practically draped across Dec, his head on Dec's shoulder, one hand holding onto Dec's arm like an anchor. Dec occasionally ran his hand along Ant's arm or gave his shoulder a reassuring squeeze, grounding him, and letting him know he was there. Whenever he saw a hint of worry in Ant's expression, he'd plant a soft kiss on his cheek, whispering, "I'm here, love. You're safe."
They spent the night in a bubble of quiet comfort, watching movies, exchanging soft kisses, and falling into gentle cuddles. As the hours passed, Ant's walls finally began to crumble, and he felt safe, loved, and held in every sense.
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Ant and Dec One Shots
FanfictionAnt and Dec have had a profound impact on my life, bringing joy and laughter during both the good times and the tough ones. Their infectious energy and genuine camaraderie create a sense of warmth that feels like spending time with friends. Their ab...