You Being Imperfect makes You Perfect (Joe Goldberg x Reader)

CHAPTER 2- LETS TALK

Y/n's POV

Leaving the bookstore with my newfound book in hand, I settled into my cozy apartment, ready to immerse myself in another world through the pages of my book. As I read, a strange sensation washed over me, as if someone were watching me. I attributed it to lingering paranoia, a relic from my past experiences. The doctors had assured me that I was safe now, but old habits died hard. With a shrug, I dismissed the feeling. After all, who would be stalking me?

Joe's POV

Unable to resist the allure of Y/n, I decided to follow her. She had quickly captured my attention and imagination. I hastily informed Ethan that I wasn't feeling well and asked him to close up the bookstore. I also followed her advice and inquired about her number from Ethan, the number she hadn't given me. She wanted someone who would work for it, who would work for "us."

I trailed behind her, surprised to discover that her apartment wasn't far from the shop. In fact, it was right across from mine, though her living space was significantly more appealing. She had sizable windows, but she kept the drapes closed, clearly preferring solitude to attention. Yet, she deserved to be noticed, cherished even. That someone was me.

On this particular day, Y/n emerged from her apartment dressed in her police officer uniform. Her determination and commitment to her new life were evident. Her gelled back hair accentuated her professional appearance. She craved respect, and I was determined to give her all that and more.

Once she left, I couldn't resist entering her apartment. My challenge was just to figure out how to unlock her door, knowing she was cautious. Someone like you needs backup plan. Just where is it?

After a thorough search, I found a cleverly hidden key behind a piece of brick in the wall. Her intelligence impressed me, and I was eager to prove myself to her.

Inside her apartment, I discovered an immaculate space, as if she had cleaned it with a particular purpose in mind. I would gladly take up the responsibility of maintaining our home. I noticed her empty fridge, which raised concerns about her well-being, but I was prepared to rectify that. Groceries and home-cooked meals would be part of our shared life.

While rummaging through her desk, I found a laptop and a journal that appeared to be from her time in the military. I couldn't resist delving into her past to better understand her demons, to find the best way to help her heal.

The journal entry revealed a vulnerable side of her:

"Day 75
It looks like we are heading to Afghanistan. It's been hard so far. And it's only the beginning. I already lost 10 of my squadron. We were on our way back until we fell into a trap. The mines blew, killing them all but me. I made it out with 2 others from a different squad. I feel like no one can save me. That no one will want to save me. Because I'm not worth it. I just pray I had someone who would protect me from everything and anything. But being here makes that feeling disappear. Yes Well I got to go now, my wounds need cleaning.
-Y/n"

I couldn't help but think, "I can save you, Y/n. You're worth protecting." I was determined to help her see her own worth, to show her that she deserved someone who would protect her and help her rebuild her life.

My thoughts were interrupted by the sound of her unlocking the door. Quickly, I retreated into her bathroom, leaving the door slightly ajar so I could eavesdrop on her conversation.

Y/n's Pov

I had left for work in the morning, but after about ten minutes, I realized I had forgotten my laptop. Knowing it contained important work documents, I hurried back to my apartment.

Unlocking the door and stepping inside, I retrieved my phone from my bag, which immediately began to ring.

"Hello?" I answered, recognizing the caller ID, though I wasn't thrilled about the conversation I was about to have.

"Hi, Mom, what can I do for you?" I asked, eager to keep the conversation brief.

"Can't a mother just call her daughter?" she replied with a hint of irritation.

"Not when you're trying to get me to come back home," I sighed, making my way towards the coffee table in my living room, where I intended to set my phone down.

"But I just want you to come back. Just because your father is angry doesn't mean he doesn't miss you, as well as your brother," she continued.

"Mom, I'm doing fine," I assured her, sitting down on the couch.

"Look, Y/n, I know you wanted to help people, but you could've done it in a different way. You didn't have to give up your birthright," she argued.

I couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt and sadness. "Mom, it was never my birthright, and it never will be. Look, I joined the army because of what happened to Jack. So, I gave up the money, the relaxation, the power, the throne, all of it because of what happened to Jack." My voice wavered as I mentioned my brother's name. It was a painful memory.

"Look, honey, it wasn't your fault. How could you have known? But you gave it up, and now your brother is upset with you, even your fiancé," she said, clearly believing she knew the details of my personal life.

I couldn't help but laugh. "Mom, we are not engaged, nor will we ever be. I never loved him. Besides, I found this cute guy, and I'm hoping for something more." A smile crept across my face as I thought about Joe.

I thought I had heard a mumbled "yes" from somewhere in the room. Startled, I looked around, but there was no one there, and I brushed it off as my paranoia acting up again.

"Please don't tell me you met him at that girl's party. What was her name, Pickles?" my mom inquired.

I laughed, correcting her, "Peach, Mom, and don't worry. This guy is different. He reads, he's nice, and he looks cute, Mom." I couldn't help but think about Joe's charming qualities.

"Please be careful who you choose. Remember, you're still a part of this family, and the media will scrutinize whoever it is. Just make sure to tell them," my mom advised before we said our goodbyes.

You hanged up and grabbed your computer. You also grabbed you phone. You opened the door and closed it on your way out. After you leave I come out of your bathroom. Who exactly are you Y/n? Don't worry, as your future boyfriend it's my job to make sure I know your okay. And who you are. Don't worry Y/n I'm not going to disappoint you. I promise.