Ant and Dec One Shots

Protective Supportive Friends

It was a chilly Friday evening, and Stephen had just wrapped up a particularly tough week at work. Recently, he'd been given a new manager who seemed overly critical, often pointing out minor mistakes and never missing a chance to make Stephen feel less than capable. He hadn't told Ant and Dec much about it; he didn't want them to worry, but they had already started to pick up on Stephen's subtle hints and slightly withdrawn mood.

The three friends had planned a low-key night in at Dec's flat. Ant and Dec had been particularly insistent that Stephen join them; they missed the old spark in his eyes and wanted to lift his spirits. As Stephen stepped into the flat, he was greeted by the cosy warmth of the room and the sight of Ant and Dec already setting up blankets and snacks.

"Stevie! There you are, mate," Dec greeted him, pulling him in for a hug.

Ant joined in, draping an arm around Stephen's shoulders and guiding him to the couch. "We've missed you, you know. It's not the same when you're all quiet on us."

Stephen offered a small smile but didn't respond, settling onto the couch between them. He felt safe, surrounded by their comforting presence, but he still felt the weight of the week pressing on him.

Ant, picking up on the tension, gave Dec a quick glance, one that said, Let's look out for him tonight.

"So, Stevie," Dec started, nudging him gently, "how's work been lately?"

Stephen shifted uncomfortably, trying to brush it off. "Oh, you know...just the usual. A bit stressful."

Ant's eyes softened as he gave Stephen's hand a gentle squeeze. "You can tell us, you know. We want to help."

With a sigh, Stephen finally opened up. He explained how his new manager had been treating him, how the constant criticism was wearing him down, and how he was starting to doubt himself. By the time he finished, he was looking down, as if ashamed of his own struggles.

Dec immediately leaned forward, wrapping an arm around Stephen's shoulders. "Stevie, you're amazing at what you do, and anyone who doesn't see that is just plain wrong. Don't let this guy make you question yourself."

Ant chimed in, his voice protective and warm. "Listen, mate, no one's allowed to make you feel like this. And if he keeps it up, Dec and I will have a word with Simon. You're like family to us, and we're not about to let anyone treat you poorly."

Stephen looked up, a bit surprised but deeply touched by their concern. "You'd really do that...for me?"

"Of course we would," Dec said, brushing a hand over Stephen's shoulder to reassure him. "You're our Stevie, and we look after our own."

Ant leaned in, giving Stephen a gentle pat on the back. "We're not going to let anyone treat you like that, all right? We've got your back. You're our little brother."

Stephen chuckled softly, a weight lifting off his chest as he leaned back against them. "Thank you. You two are the best."

For the rest of the night, Ant and Dec made sure Stephen didn't have a moment to dwell on his worries. They watched his favourite movies, fed him popcorn, and even insisted on tucking him into a cosy pile of blankets on the couch. Ant kept a protective arm around his shoulders, while Dec made sure he had everything he needed within reach, from drinks to snacks. Every so often, Dec would look over at Ant with a knowing smile-they were going to make sure Stephen knew how valued and loved he was, no matter what.

As the night drew to a close, Stephen felt a deep warmth and gratitude for the friends who had his back no matter what. He knew that, with Ant and Dec by his side, he could get through anything.