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Chapter Text

It was early evening and the Ibiza sunshine was still beating down and filling the air with humidity. The occasional breeze floated through the Villa windows and the air con was set to max but Viv still found it a little too warm for her liking.

Steph and Katie had left earlier in the day to join their respective partners for another holiday break and Beth, Jordan and Jen had decided to spend their afternoon at a pool party while Viv opted to stay behind at the villa and continue with her studies.

Well, that was the plan at least.

Viv sighed in annoyance as the onscreen cursor obnoxiously blinked at her. If she didn’t get this part of her module completed within the next two weeks then she would be behind in her studies and she wasn’t prepared to let that happen.

She took her eyes away from her computer screen when she heard a key in the Villa door and smiled the second Beth walked through it.

“Hi lieverd,” Beth happily greeted Viv and smiled when the Dutch woman blushed right on cue.

After their respective long term relationships ended, neither woman were in a rush to put a label on things. Every step they took felt natural and both women were happy with how things were developing between them even if they were reluctant to admit that they were dating.

Viv tilted her head back and smiled when Beth dropped a couple of quick kisses on her lips followed by a longer, deeper one. “How was the party?”

“Fucking wild,” Beth laughed and walked toward the fridge for a bottle of water. She unscrewed the cap and took a long swig. “I lost count of how many numbers Jen got; proper player that one!” She said and Viv laughed. “How long have you been studying for?”

“Ugh, too long!” Viv groaned. She removed her glasses and rubbed her eyes with the heels of her hands.

“Most headaches are caused by prolonged periods of using a computer, ya know?”

“Hmm, I thought they were caused by prolonged periods with you ,” Viv quipped and Beth made a face at her. “Fuck!” Viv gasped when Beth pressed the cold bottle of water against the back of her neck. She turned in her chair and grabbed it from Beth’s hand.

“You deserved that.” Beth stood behind Viv’s chair and draped her arms around her shoulders. “Mmm I missed you today.” Beth pressed her cheek against Viv’s before she trailed kisses from Viv’s temple, jaw, and cheek, down to her neck and back up to her temple again. “I know you need to study but you should take more breaks - you’re on holiday.”

Viv closed her eyes and sighed as Beth resumed the hot kisses against her jaw, neck, and face. She let out a soft hum as Beth’s hands traveled down her body and softly massaged her chest.

“Hmm, no bra again? Naughty meisje,” Beth teased and Viv could feel herself getting hotter by the second. “Are you almost done with your studies?” Beth whispered in her ear and Viv immediately saved her work and pushed her laptop away before she pulled a laughing Beth onto her lap.

Beth shifted her weight so she could straddle Viv’s slim hips. She pressed their lips together and when she went to unbutton Viv’s shirt she was surprised when the taller woman halted her progress.

“Wait. Where are the others?”

“Still at the party. We’ve got the whole place to ourselves.” Beth quirked her eyebrows and teasingly pulled back when Viv moved in for a kiss. She laughed when Viv whined and she rocked forward to press their lips together again.

What started out as a slow kiss soon became passionate and Viv’s hands had moved down to cup Beth’s butt while the blonde had successfully succeeded in undoing Viv’s shirt.

“WE’RE COMING IN! PLEASE DON’T BE NAKED!!!” Jordan yelled out and entered the villa with a hand over her eyes.

Beth quickly scrambled off of Viv’s lap while the Dutch woman buttoned her shirt and Jen laughed at their ‘busted’ faces.

“I thought you were staying at the party?” Beth asked and straightened her hair.

“We got hungry so we came back for something to eat. Looks like you had the same idea.” Jen winked. “Your shirt’s buttoned up wrong, by the way,” she said and Viv blushed. “Don’t worry, we’re going out again, we just came back to get changed.”

“You can uncover your eyes Jordy, nobody’s naked,” Beth said and laughed when Jordan took a tentative peek before quickly disappearing into her room to get changed. “Dinner sounds good actually,” Beth said and frowned when Viv made a face. “What?”

“I want to go out but can it just be us?”

“Vivianne Miedema, are you asking me out on a date ?” Beth teased and lightly poked Viv’s blush covered cheek.

“Beth, come on…”

Beth worried that she may have gone too far with her teasing and reigned it in a bit.

“Sorry but you’re just so cute when you’re all shy,” Beth grinned and cupped her face as she gently kissed her lips. “Okay, where are you taking me?”

******

After dinner at a nearby restaurant, Viv and Beth took a slow stroll back to the villa. The two women walked hand in hand by the beach as they enjoyed the cooler evening sun and gentle breeze.

They stopped to look at the bright orange sun setting low in the sky and Viv stood behind Beth and wrapped her arms around her waist.

“It’s beautiful isn’t?” Beth whispered and Viv hummed softly in agreement. “You don’t get many of those back home,” she added and gently ran her fingertips over Viv’s strong forearms. “Thank you.”

“For taking you out?”

What Beth wanted to say was:

‘Thank you for taking me out, thank you for spending time with me, thank you for listening to me talk even when you’re not really interested in what I’m saying but you listen because you care, thank you for being there for me when I need you, thank you for being you, thank you for loving me, thank you for everything .’ But that felt like it was much too soon for such declarations, it felt like a conversation for another day. So instead she answered:

“Yeah, thanks for taking me out.”

And that was enough for now.

Chapter Text

Beth was a lousy patient.

She had started to feel a bit rough a couple of days prior but she hadn’t slept well the night before so when the headache started, she just put it down to tiredness. But then when the sweats came, followed by aching muscles, a sore throat and tummy pain, she knew it was the dreaded flu.

Viv had been like a saint since Beth had been ill.

Beth had complained about it being too warm in their bedroom so Viv had set up the sofa with extra pillows and a blanket because she knew Beth hated her feet being cold. She set up a medicine station on the side table to remind Beth to take painkillers at regular intervals as well as several bottles of water, a glass of fresh orange juice, a plate of toast and the TV remote.

“That should be everything. I’ll be back in a few hours so please try and get some sleep,” Viv said and tenderly stroked Beth’s sweaty hair away from her face.

“I wish I could go to training with you.” Beth’s scratchy voice was full of disappointment and Viv took several steps back when Beth violently sneezed into her tissues followed by a coughing fit.

“You need to stay here and get better, lieverd, they know you’re not coming in today. Go to sleep and I’ll be back before you know it.”

“I’ll try,” Beth sighed and pulled the blanket to her chin to try and stop the shivering.

“Good. Don’t forget to take these and drink this.” Viv picked up the painkillers and water and ignored Beth’s eye roll. “Ik hou van jou.”

“Ik hou van jou,” Beth repeated and watched Viv leave before she closed her eyes and tried to sleep.

****

Viv quietly stepped through the front door and tip toed into the living room in case Beth was sleeping.

She smiled when she saw that Beth had finished her orange juice along with two bottles of water and her next dose of painkillers too.

“You don’t have to be quiet, I’m not asleep.”

“You should be though. Did you get any sleep while I was gone?” Viv gently asked and subtly kept one hand behind her back.

“Yeah, I got a couple of hours. What’s in the bag?”

“Oh, uh, I just did a bit of shopping after training,” Viv said and headed to the kitchen to put the groceries away.

“What did you get?”

“I told you, just a few bits.”

“Vivianne…”

“Fine but it’s not that interesting. I got you some more medicine, some oranges, stuff for dinner - I’m gonna make your favourite because I’m worried about you not eating - and these.” Viv pulled out a small bouquet of sunflowers, yellow roses and white chrysanthemums from behind her back and Beth practically melted into the sofa.

“Aw Vivianne! What are they for?”

“Just because I love you.” Viv shrugged. She wasn’t one for huge romantic gestures but she wanted to get something to cheer Beth up and she knew they were her favourite flowers.

“And you know that you don’t have to buy oranges and squeeze them yourself? You do know that you can buy orange juice in cartons, right?” Beth teased.

“I know but it tastes better when it’s fresher,” Viv replied. She filled a vase with water and placed the bouquet in it. “Here?” She asked and put the vase on the table when Beth nodded. “Right, budge up.”

“What for?”

“It’s been way too long since we’ve cuddled and I miss you so come on, scoot over.”

“No Viv, you’ll get sick too!” Beth protested but Viv ignored her pleas and settled in behind her. She snuggled in close and pressed a kiss to the back of Beth’s shoulder and rested her forehead there.

“This is nice,” Viv sighed contentedly and pulled the blanket over them as she settled down for a nap.

“If you get sick then I’m gonna tell the team it was your own fault.”

“It doesn’t matter - we’ve already won two cups and we’re gonna win the league. You need me more than the team do.”

Beth hummed her agreement; as usual, Viv did have a point.

“In sickness and in health, right? That’s what we said, isn’t it?” Viv reached under the blanket for Beth’s hand. She brought it to her lips and pressed a lingering kiss to Beth’s wedding band before she rubbed her thumb over it.

“Yeah, that’s what we said,” Beth agreed with a sleepy smile. She closed her eyes when Viv tightened her arms around her and both women drifted off into a peaceful and much needed nap.

Chapter Text

Beth sighed in relief as she sat down with a freshly made brew and a couple of chocolate biscuits. She had meticulously cleaned every room in the house and was now sitting down for a well earned rest.

She propped her feet up on the foot stall in front of her and dunked her biscuit in her tea before she took a sip. Her phone pinged with a notification and she opened up her email.

Since retiring from football almost three years ago, Beth had gone back and forth between deciding whether she wanted to do coaching or media work and she eventually decided to follow in Alex Scott’s footsteps and work in punditry, which was something she found she really enjoyed, especially when she got to work with Alex. Their infectious and bubbly personalities meshed well together and they were a big hit with the viewers.

Viv on the other hand still hated the limelight and was much happier to have a more low-key job. She had no desire whatsoever to follow her wife’s career path and had gone straight into coaching after retiring two years ago.

Viv now managed an under 15s girls team, which she loved and the feeling was mutual - the youngsters loved being taught by the legendary Vivianne Miedema and on occasion, Beth would join in too.

Not today though because Beth was feeling a little under the weather and so she was having a ‘me day’. She opened up her email from the BBC and read her schedule for the next three WSL games. She added them to her calendar and started her research for stats on each team and player.

Her phone pinged again and this time it was a message from Viv. She immediately opened it and laughed at the selfie. Her wife was clearly being run ragged by her team if her facial expression was anything to go by. She was just about to reply when another message came through. This time Viv had sent a video of one of her promising players dancing her way through the defenders before rocketing a shot past the helpless goalkeeper.

Viv 🐐 : Who does that remind you of? xx

Beth ☀️ : Ha! She learned that from me! xx

Viv 🐐 : I know. She said you’re her favourite player so now I’m thinking of benching her for our next game. 😉 xx

Beth ☀️ : You wouldn’t dare, that kid’s gonna win you the league. xx

Viv 🐐: Hmm, now she reminds me of me! 😂 How are you feeling, any better? xx

Beth ☀️: A bit. I’m just doing some research for the next few matches. xx

Viv 🐐: Ok, make sure you take it easy. Do you want me to pick up dinner? xx

Beth ☀️: Nah I’ll sort it. xx

Viv 🐐: Ok. I’ve gotta go. See you in a few hours. Ik hou van jou. ❤️ xx

Beth ☀️: Ik hou van jou. ❤️xx

Beth watched the video again and her heart filled with pride at knowing that even though she and Viv were retired, they still had the capability to inspire the younger generation.

****

As promised, Viv returned home a few hours later and immediately greeted her wife with a kiss and hug.

“Mmm, you smell amazing,” Viv purred against Beth’s neck. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath of the familiar mix of perfume and laundry detergent. “I missed you today. If you feel better tomorrow then you should come to the training session. I know the girls would love to see you.” Viv moved back from the embrace and held her wife by the hips.

“Yeah maybe.” Beth nodded. “Dinner will be ready in about twenty minutes so you can have a shower first, if you want.”

“Is it your speciality?”

“Yep, good old deliveroo is always a winner,” Beth laughed.

“Chinese?”

“Of course.”

“Good. I’m starving.” Viv patted her stomach. “The girls made me run today,” Viv said and pulled an unimpressed face.

“Poor baby,” Beth teased and Viv flipped her off before disappearing into the bathroom.

Viv grabbed a towel and switched on the shower. She stuck her hand under the steady stream of water and got in once she deemed it to be hot enough. She closed her eyes in bliss as the water did it’s job of relaxing her tired muscles and cleaning the days work off her body.

Her showers were usually quick and efficient and so after a few minutes, she switched the water off and blindly reached for her towel. She opened her eyes when she couldn’t find it and her gaze was drawn to something on the mirror:

LOOK DOWN!

Viv wrapped the towel around her body and she almost fainted when she saw what the message was pointing at. She sprinted out of the bathroom and found her wife waiting for her.

“It worked?”

“It worked.”

Viv immediately pulled Beth into a hug before she pulled back and kissed her lips over and over again.

“We’re having a baby,” Viv whispered through a watery smile and wiped her eyes. She kissed Beth again and pulled her close once more.

“Viv?”

“Yeah?”

“You should wash your hands before dinner gets here.”

“Why?”

“Because you’re still holding my pee stick.”

Chapter Text

“You’re a fucking prick, Mark Parsons,” Beth yelled at the TV and angrily shook her head.

A few members of the England players were watching the Euros and they had just watched the Netherlands crash out of the quarterfinals against France after extra time.

“Beth, hun, I know you’re loud but he can’t hear you,” Ellen White laid a supportive hand on Beth’s shoulder.

“He fucking well should! Why would he play her for the whole 120 minutes?! She’s just got over covid. I’m so cross,” Beth seethed before her anger quickly turned into concern. “Wait, why isn’t she getting up? Ellen, why isn’t Viv getting up?!” Beth watched as her girlfriend stayed still on the ground and she paced the room. “Leah, Katie’s there, call her and ask her what’s happening.”

Normally Leah would make a joke about Beth being bossy and demanding but she knew her friend was worried and she was too. She called their Arsenal teammate, Katie McCabe, who they knew was watching from the stands, and she moved to a quiet area to hear her better.

In the meantime, Viv had managed to get to her feet, albeit a little shakily and Beth felt like she could breathe again.

“Katie’s gonna call back after she’s seen Viv,” Leah told Beth and gave her a hug. “She’ll be fine, try not to worry.” Leah reassured her and pressed a kiss to the side of Beth’s head but they both knew her words would do little to calm Beth’s nerves and she would only settle down when she saw for herself that her girlfriend was okay.

****

It was a few hours later when Beth’s phone rang for a FaceTime. She immediately answered it and relief washed over her when she saw Viv’s face fill the screen.

“I left you so many messages - I was so fucking scared,” Beth said and Viv smiled softly. “Don’t you dare laugh at me Vivianne Miedema!”

“I’m not, I wouldn’t dare. It’s just you look cute when you’re worried.” Viv smiled. Her cheeks were rosy but Beth couldn’t tell if it was from over exertion or because she was blushing. Either way Beth thought she looked adorably pretty.

“How are you feeling?”

“I’m fine.”

“Really?”

“Yeah. I’m tired but I feel okay.”

“I’m so proud of you. I dunno how you managed to carry on for 120 minutes - I couldn’t do it!”

“I dunno how I did it either, it’s all a bit of a blur to be honest. Anyway, I don’t want to talk about that game, I want to talk about yours - I’m so proud of you for getting through to the semis. You’re playing so well and you deserve it so much. I can’t wait to come and watch.”

“You don’t have to if you don’t feel up to it, I’ll understand.”

“I’m coming to watch,” Viv insisted. “I want to be there. I’m so proud.”

They talked for a bit longer before they decided they both needed to rest, so they bid each other goodbye with declarations of love and promises to see each other soon.

****

A few days later, England managed to brush Sweden aside with surprising ease and they breezed through to the final.

However Germany would prove to be a tougher opponent and they were not about to give England an easy game.

Beth was disappointed to be subbed off but she knew she had given her all. She was nervously watching from the sidelines as the time ticked away - it felt as though the score was 1-1 for years let alone minutes.

And then it happened; Chloe Kelly had scored to make it 2-1 and the crowd went wild!

Everything seemed to move in slow motion until the final whistle and as Beth celebrated with her teammates and Sarina, she looked up into the crowd and saw her family cheering with Viv and she felt her heart fill with love and joy.

****

The celebrations lasted well into the night and it was the early hours of the morning when the champagne finally ran out.

Before the tournament began, Beth and Viv had made a pact: whoever went out of the competition first would be the one to hard launch their relationship and Beth took great delight in reminding Viv of their deal.

Viv was more than happy to uphold her end of the deal and playfully pulled a laughing Beth into her lap. She tenderly kissed the back of Beth’s shoulder and upper arm before they were handed the trophy. Viv wrapped her arms around her girlfriend as they posed for the camera.

“We look cute,” Beth said and leaned down to softly kiss Viv’s lips. “Are you ready to call it a night? I wanna celebrate with just you,” she whispered directly into Viv’s ear before she nipped the lobe and kissed her jaw.

Viv double checked Beth was happy with the photo before she posted it to her story. She switched her notifications off and pocketed her phone - she would deal with the inevitable meltdown later.

The party was beginning to wind down but Beth and Viv still managed to slip away unnoticed. They giggled as they stumbled arm and arm up to their hotel room and burst out laughing when they practically fell through the door.

Beth placed her Golden boot and player of the tournament trophies on the dresser and walked toward her girlfriend. She pulled her down for a long, deep kiss before she pulled back and rubbed her fingers along the three lions badge covering Viv’s chest.

“You’re gonna get so much shit for wearing this!” Beth giggled.

“I don’t care. I love you and I want the whole world to know it,” Viv said and kissed Beth again.

“I love you too.” Beth smiled and ran a hand through Viv’s soft hair. “I don’t know if I’ve got enough space in my flat for these trophies.”

“I’ve got room,” Viv said and Beth frowned. She’d had a lot to drink so she couldn’t be 100% sure what Viv was saying.

“Wait, are you asking me to move in with you?”

“Yeah I am. You practically live at my house anyway, it’s about time we made it official.”

Beth pulled Viv into an enthusiastic kiss and swiftly manoeuvred them towards the bed.

“I can’t wait. And I can have all four trophies in one place.”

“Four?” Viv frowned and mentally counted them: the Euros trophy, golden boot and player of the tournament. “What’s the fourth trophy?”

“You,” Beth said and squealed in laughter when Viv gasped and promptly rolled on top of her to tickle her relentlessly.

Chapter Text

Beth hated sitting on the subs bench.

It didn’t matter if she had played some part of the game and was being substituted off or whether she hadn’t been chosen in the starting lineup and was waiting to be subbed on, she knew she made a terrible spectator.

The current match was a friendly game before the Euros and England were level 1-1 against the Netherlands.

The plan had always been to bring Beth on for the second half and Sarina had been very clear about that. Her honesty was something the England squad really respected about her: every player had a role to play and they were all briefed on what they were expected to do and bring to the team.

Beth knew that she would be brought on to either score the goals or assist the goals and she was so pumped up, she was ready to do exactly that.

She had finished her warm up and was stripped and ready to come on. She gave a small smile and nod to Viv who was still sitting on the Dutch bench and faltered slightly when she looked to her right and saw the player the Netherlands were bringing on; Daniëlle Van de Donk.

Beth extended her hand out for a fist bump and Daan met her halfway. Beth regained her composure and quickly got her game face on - she had an important job to do and seeing her ex girlfriend wasn’t going to deter her.

****

The match finished 5-1 to England with Beth scoring twice. The noise from the crowd gave the players a buzz and they absorbed the energy as they went around the pitch to show their appreciation for the support.

Beth saw Daan giving Sarina a hug and she waited her turn. She and Daan had broken up at the end of the previous year and this was the first time they had seen each other since. Beth knew that Daan had been in a bad place after her awful, potentially career threatening injury and so she wanted to take the opportunity to check in with her.

“Hey,” Beth said with a small smile.

“Hey,” Daan replied with the same tiny
smile.

Beth quickly hugged her and she cringed at how awkward it felt. Even before they had started dating, back when she just had a simple crush on the brunette, she had never felt like that. She pulled back and looked at Daan but her ex avoided eye contact.

“How’re you feeling, y’know, with everything?”

“I’m good. Viv told me about the two of you and I already told her I’m cool with it.”

“Oh…”

“Oh, what?” Daan asked with a raised eyebrow.

“I meant….. how are you with your injury and the Euros coming up?” Beth elaborated and this time it was Daan’s turn to cringe.

“Right.” Daan cleared her throat. “Yeah, it’s going well but I still need to manage my minutes,” Daan explained and Beth nodded.

“That’s good. I hope you get to play, you deserve to be there after working so hard.” Beth saw movement behind Daan’s shoulder and smiled at the familiar tall and lanky figure of Viv waiting for her at the entrance of the tunnel. “I’ve gotta go. It was good to see you again, really.” Beth lightly squeezed Daan’s shoulder before she trotted off in Viv’s direction.

“Hi.”

“Hi yourself.”

“All good?” Viv asked and lifted an arm up for Beth to move under as they walked down the tunnel. Viv pulled her closer and Beth wrapped both arms around the slim waist and nestled comfortably into her side.

“I am now,” Beth said and grinned when a light blush predictably dusted Viv’s cheeks.

“So I’ve got a day off tomorrow…” Viv said and Beth quirked an eyebrow. “Fancy meeting me somewhere and spending the day together?”

Beth pretended to think about it and Viv nudged her.

“Of course I do, Vivianne, you don’t have to ask. Those two weeks apart were harder than I thought they’d be.”

“I know. I missed you so much.”

“Name the time and place and I’ll be there,” Beth promised and a pleased smile graced Viv’s face.

Viv pulled Beth to one side for a bit of privacy and bent down to softly kiss her lips.

“I’ll text you our hotel’s address,” Viv said. She squeezed Beth’s hand before she disappeared into her teams changing room, while Beth went to hers.

Even though it had only been a fortnight, it still seemed like a long time to go without spending time together and neither woman could wait for the next day.

****

Beth arrived almost ten minutes early and so she waited outside the Marriott hotel. The day was glorious already; the sun was out and there was just enough breeze in the air to keep it at a comfortable temperature.

She looked up when she heard the main door open and grinned widely when she saw Viv walk through it.

“Fancy seeing you here.”

“Hmm, what a coincidence,” Viv grinned back. “Walk with me?” Viv asked and held out her hand. Beth linked their fingers together and they took a slow walk along the canal.

They reached a cafe and ordered coffees. They sat outside in the sunshine and watched the boats go by before Viv broke the comfortable silence.

“I love you,” Viv said simply. It was the first time either had said the words and it felt like the right time and the right place.

“I love you,” Beth replied and the two women broke out into giddy, happy laughter. “Viv…”

“I know.”

“I refuse to ask you to be my girlfriend, you’re gonna have to ask me.”

“Maybe not; you just put two past us,” Viv replied in her usual dry manner and Beth rolled her eyes.

“Viv?”

“Yes Beth?”

“Will you be my girlfriend?”

“Of course I’ll be your girlfriend,” Viv grinned giddily - neither woman could stop smiling. Viv linked their fingers together and brought them to her lips.

“This calls for a celebration; you’ve got the afternoon off right?”

“Yeah…”

“Reckon you could sneak me back into your hotel room?” Beth quirked a cheeky eyebrow and they immediately left their unfinished coffees on the table before taking a brisk walk back to the hotel.

Chapter Text

Beth was brimming with excitement and had been hyper for the whole day. Tonight was the Ballon d’or ceremony and when she saw the transportation that she, Viv and Bukayo Saka would be taking, her excitement only increased.

“No way, a private jet?? This is only because you’re coming too, star boy,” Beth teased Bukayo and he shyly laughed it off.

The trio had been given control of the Arsenal social media accounts but Viv and Bukayo were reluctant to get too involved and instead preferred to stay in the background while Beth took centre stage and with Beth being a total ham in front of the camera, she was only too happy to oblige.

They filmed a quick video of the plane interior and took a few photos, some for posting and others for private, and enjoyed the luxury experience.

“Who was your favourite player growing up?” Bukayo asked.

“Definitely Robin Van Persie,” Viv said. “That answer doesn’t go down too well with Arsenal fans though!”

“Neither does mine; I loved Alexis Sanchez!” Bukayo said and shared a laugh with Viv.

“Nah but they were both ballers to be fair. Have you seen the RVP compilation on YouTube?” Viv asked and showed Bukayo the video on her phone.

Beth decided to quickly facetime her family while Viv and Bukayo continued to chat and bond over their favourite footballers.

****

They landed in Paris a short while later and were taken to the hotel to get ready for the ceremony. Each had been assigned their own stylist and while Beth and Viv were more comfortable in their own clothes, they admitted it was nice to get pampered occasionally.

They were ushered into separate rooms and Viv was ready first. She waited outside Beth’s room and sat on the bed. Beth’s stylist walked out of the room first and smiled at Viv.

“You look amazing,” she said and Viv shrugged. “She’ll be out in a minute - don’t mess up her hair or makeup.” She fixed Viv with a pointed look and left the room.

Viv chuckled to herself but the laughter died in her throat when the bathroom door opened and her girlfriend stepped out of it.

“Wow…”

“Is that a good wow or is it a it’s too much wow?” Beth asked self consciously and smoothed out her dress. She was wearing a one sleeve, tight fitting black dress with heels and her long blonde hair had been curled in soft waves.

“It’s a ‘I’m gonna get in trouble with your stylist for messing up your look’ wow. You look incredible.” Viv stood up and walked toward her girlfriend.

“So the sweatpants and t shirts look doesn’t do it for you anymore?”

“Lieverd, all of your looks do it for me,” Viv flirted and Beth blushed shyly. “I love you,” she said and bent her head to lightly kiss Beth while her hands began to wander to Beth’s butt and the blonde giggled and broke the kiss when Viv squeezed with both hands.

“We should go before you start something you can’t finish,” Beth said and Viv sighed and gently played with Beth’s necklace.

“Yeah, you’re right. After you.” Viv gestured for Beth to go first.

“Wow, what a gentlewoman.”

“Ah, not really - I just wanted to see what you look like from the back,” Viv admitted and the couple shared a laugh before leaving the room for the red carpet.

****

The taxi stopped at the entrance of the building and Viv nervously looked at the large crowd of people waiting outside.

“Are you okay? We can wait for a bit longer if you’re not ready,” Beth said and reassuringly squeezed Viv’s knee. “Or you can skip this part and I’ll meet you inside, I don’t mind.”

Viv looked at her girlfriend with adoration in her eyes - Beth always had her best interests at heart. Beth knew that Viv could sometimes be anxious and overwhelmed, particularly by large crowds, and she always tried to do whatever she could to make sure Viv was comfortable.

“I’m okay.”

Beth nodded and squeezed Viv’s hand.

“Oh chaperone, we need umbrellas - we simply cannot get out of the car without them!” Beth put on an over the top posh voice and Viv burst out laughing at her silly girlfriend and just like that, Beth had put her apprehension to bed.

They got out of the car and immediately ducked under the cover of the umbrellas for protection from the pouring rain.

“I hope I don’t fall flat on my arse. It’s hard enough to walk in heels at the best of times!” Beth joked.

“I’ll walk behind you to make sure,” Viv offered and Beth rolled her eyes.

“Yeah, yeah.”

They stood in front of the cameras and posed for pictures before Beth was called away for a quick interview while Viv waited off to the side.

“Let’s get this over with, shall we?”

“Yes please.” Viv placed her hand on Beth’s back and they entered the venue.

****

If Beth hadn’t already known the voting results beforehand then she would’ve been more disappointed in the outcome but in her opinion, being voted the second best player in the world was an achievement that she had only dreamed of a year or two ago and she was proud that her hard work was being recognised.

The couple met up with Bukayo at the after party and Beth decided to check her phone. It was filled with numerous messages and notifications but before she could look at them, Viv suddenly grabbed her arm and burst out laughing.

“What’s the matter with you?” Beth joined in the laughter without knowing the context.

“You…. you’re my guest!”

“What are you on about?”

Viv handed Beth her phone and the blonde looked at the photo of the two of them on the red carpet. Her first thought was that they looked hot and she couldn’t see what Viv found so funny. Until she read the caption; ‘ Vivianne Miedema and guest.’

“I should probably be offended by that but that’s hilarious! It’s the hair extensions, isn’t it, that’s why they don’t recognise me! I’m the second best player in the world but I’m the guest,” she chuckled. A passing server came by with a tray of champagne and Beth and Viv took a flute each. “You wanna stay for a couple of these and then get room service?”

“Sure. Be my guest.”

Beth gasped in mock offence before she burst out laughing once again.

Chapter Text

Viv blew the steam from her hot coffee before she took a tentative sip. She crossed her long legs one over the other and people watched from her seat outside the café while she waited for Beth to arrive.

It was almost mid morning and the weather was pleasant enough to need a light jacket and the sun was bright enough for sunglasses.

“Sorry I’m late! Have you been waiting long?”

Viv looked up at her friend and offered her a warm smile.

“That’s the second coffee I’ve ordered for you, the first one went cold,” Viv joked.

“Rot op!” Beth retorted in Dutch. She wasn’t fluent in the language but she at least knew how to swear. Beth hid a yawn with the back of her hand and sipped her coffee. “Oh that’s good, I needed that.”

“Late night?”

“Yeah I had dinner with Kyah last night.”

“Kyah?”

“Kyah Simon.”

Viv felt her stomach drop in disappointment and, if she was honest, jealousy.

“Oh. You, uh, you never said you two were dating.” Viv tried to keep her voice neutral and she hoped she was succeeding.

“We’re not - it was just dinner between kind of friends. Nothing happened,” Beth answered quickly. It felt important to Beth that Viv knew that.

When Lisa and Viv broke up a few months ago, Beth had offered Viv her support. She didn’t like the thought of Viv being on her own so she suggested that they hang out more.

The more Beth got to know Viv, the more fascinating she found her. She enjoyed discovering new things about Viv - what she liked, what made her happy and what made her smile and laugh - and even though they had been teammates for five years, it felt like she was only just getting to know the real person.

Beth was initially content with being just friends but just lately she had been having stronger feelings towards Viv and her head was all over the place - she didn’t know what to do. (Well, she knew what she wanted to do but she didn’t know how Viv felt and she didn’t want to do anything to jeopardise their burgeoning friendship.)

“So, what are we doing today? You still haven’t told me.”

“It’s a secret.” Beth leaned across the table and tapped Viv’s nose with her finger. “I’ve planned something fun, don’t you worry Vivianne.”

****

Beth was as good as her word and Viv’s eyes lit up when she realised that Beth’s definition of ‘something fun’ was a Thames river cruise.

“I’ve always wanted to go on one of these.”

“I know, I remember,” Beth said and returned Viv’s sweet smile.

They found two seats near the back of the boat and Viv took the seat closest to the water.

“What?” Viv asked when she saw Beth looking at her.

“It’s just nice to see you smiling, is all.”

“Are you saying I’m grumpy?”

“I’m saying nothing,” Beth teased and Viv pretended to be offended.

They sat in a comfortable silence and enjoyed the scenery for a while before Viv spoke up again.

“Did she know it wasn’t a date?”

“Huh?”

“Kyah. You said it wasn’t a date, does she know that?”

“Yeah of course.” Beth nodded. “At least I think so. Why?”

“I think you should tell her if you’re not interested. I’ve seen some of her comments on your pictures and I think she fancies you.”

“Ah, so you’ve been stalking me?”

Viv mumbled something about “the algorithm” and Beth laughed.

“If you say so. Look if she asks again then I’ll make it clear that I’m not interested okay?”

“It would be weird if you did start dating her since your ex is dating her ex,” Viv pointed out and Beth screwed her nose up.

“Ew. Do you want me to throw up? ‘Cause you’re right in the firing line,” Beth warned and leaned into Viv who playfully pushed her away.

Their silly antics earned them a glare from an older woman in the next row and Beth suppressed her laughter by pressing her face into Viv’s shoulder.

Viv sat completely still; worried that if she moved even an inch then Beth would pull away. But the blonde didn’t pull away and instead snuggled further against Viv and laced their fingers together before placing their joined hands on Viv’s thigh.

****

“You still haven’t told me where we’re going.”

“Because it’s a surprise, Vivianne!”

“I don’t like surprises.”

“You’ll like this one, I promise. It’s this way.”

Beth tugged Viv by the hand and pulled her down a side alley.

“Are we eating dinner here like Lady and the Tramp?” Viv joked and Beth laughed through her nose.

“We’re not eating spaghetti so unfortunately we can’t recreate that scene.” Beth gave Viv a very cheeky grin and wink. “I booked us a table here.”

“I’ve never been here before. I love Asian food.”

“I know you do, that’s why I booked us a table. Come on.”

They entered the Korean restaurant and the server showed them to their table. He handed them a menu each and took their drink orders before leaving them to browse through the menu.

“I want everything,” Beth said and Viv watched fondly as Beth pored over the pages of food.

“Yeah, me too.”

****

The evening was drawing to an end and Beth was driving Viv back home. Viv was in charge of the music and so of course Taylor Swift was softly playing in the background.

Beth pulled up in front of Viv’s house and switched off the engine. She unbuckled her seatbelt and turned toward Viv.

“I had fun today.” Beth smiled and Viv returned it.

“Yeah I did too.” Viv nodded and dropped her eyes to Beth’s lips. “Beth…”

“Yeah?”

Viv slowly moved forward and Beth felt her breath nervously catch and her heart began racing in her chest.

She willed Viv to move forward a fraction further to close the gap and she closed her eyes when Viv did just that. She brushed her nose against Beth’s before she pressed their lips together in a soft kiss.

But before Beth could respond the way she really wanted to, Viv slightly pulled away and rested their foreheads together.

“Sorry,” Viv gently whispered.

“Don’t be sorry; I liked it,” Beth quickly reassured her.

“No I mean, I’m sorry; I think I ate too much garlic at dinner,” Viv clarified and they both laughed.

Beth gently stroked Viv’s cheekbone with her thumb and cupped the back of her neck as she pulled her in for another kiss, this time a little deeper and longer than the first one.

Beth knew that if they didn’t stop now then they’d most likely take it much further than they were both ready for and so she reluctantly broke the kiss.

Viv lingered in Beth’s space for a moment before she pressed another, much shorter kiss to her lips and opened the passenger door.

“I’ll see you at training.”

“Yeah, see you tomorrow.”

Beth watched Viv enter her house and laughed dazedly to herself - she couldn’t believe that Vivianne Miedema had actually kissed her!

And now that she knew what it felt like to kiss her, Beth wanted to do it again and again and she really hoped that Viv did too.

Chapter Text

The bright sunlight peeked through the small gap in the closed curtains and Beth reluctantly opened her eyes.

She shifted slightly and Viv’s slender yet strong arms tightened their grip around her waist.

Viv protested when Beth moved out of her arms and leaned up to check the time.

“Ugh, it’s 10:30.”

“So?” Viv yawned.

“So we should probably get up.”

“No we shouldn’t - we’ve got the whole day off.” Viv rolled onto her back, causing the bedsheet to fall and Beth’s eyes were drawn to the inviting bare skin on display. “Unless you’ve got somewhere else to be?”

Beth pretended to think about it and giggled when Viv pulled her back down toward her.

****

It was over an hour later when they decided to get up, their rumbling tummies making the decision for them.

“Have you got any açai pouches and berries in the freezer? I’m really feeling an açai bowl.” Beth opened the fridge and looked at the contents. She pulled out some fresh strawberries, blueberries, natural yogurt and apple juice.

“I think I’ve still got the ones Steph gave me.” Viv rummaged around in the freezer and found what she was looking for. She handed Beth the frozen pouches and berries and located the granola in the cupboard.

Viv popped the apple juice, banana, frozen berries, yogurt, and açaí puree in the blender and blitzed it until it was smooth. She divided it into two bowls while Beth chopped the fresh strawberries and another banana.

“You need to slice it, not chop it,” Viv instructed. “Come on, I’ll show you,” Viv offered and stood behind Beth. She pressed against her back and put her hands over Beth’s and guided her through the slicing process. “See, that’s much better isn’t it?” Viv said and propped her chin on Beth’s shoulder as they sliced the fruit together.

“If you say so Nigella. I think you just wanted to cop a feel of my arse,” Beth teased and Viv laughed before she pressed a kiss against Beth’s neck.

“I don’t hear you complaining.”

“No but you will be if I accidentally chop off one of my fingers.”

With the fruit suitable sliced, Viv arranged it on top of the bowls with a sprinkle of granola in the middle while Beth made them tea.

They sat down to enjoy their late breakfast and ate with gusto, having used up a lot of energy with their night time and early morning…activities.

Beth was scrolling through social media and she came across several articles all saying the same thing:

‘Will Vivianne Miedema be staying at Arsenal next season?’

‘Dutch superstar set to leave Arsenal for Barcelona?’

‘Could Miedema be Barcelona bound?’

Against her better judgement, she read all of the articles and she began to think about how it would affect her.

Things between them were going great and although they hadn’t yet put a label on what they were, they both cared about each other a great deal and were enjoying learning new things about each other both emotionally and physically.

But if Viv did decide to leave, Beth knew she wouldn’t be able to stand in her way and she wasn’t the type of person who would.

****

Beth was in a strange mood for the rest of the day. She wasn’t in a bad mood, she just felt oddly unsettled.

Viv had definitely noticed and had commented that Beth’s quietness was concerning and she had jokingly asked if she had developed laryngitis.

“I think I’m gonna go home.”

“Why, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing, I just think I should go, that’s all.”

“Well something’s happened. You’ve barely said a word all evening and I usually can’t get you to be quiet. I’m sure you’d find a way to be loud even if I glued your mouth shut. And believe me, I have thought about getting some glue.”

“I’m sure you have.” Beth rolled her eyes. She took a moment to think about what she was going to say and sighed deeply. “Okay, there is something. I’m just gonna be honest so please just let me say this….. I know we’re taking our time and we agreed we wouldn’t rush into anything too soon but the thing is, I don’t know what we’re doing and I don’t know where I stand with you right now because you haven’t even decided if you’re staying at the end of the season. Obviously you need to do what’s best for your career and I would never ever stand in your way if you did decide to leave but at the same time, I also need to protect my heart because I really believe that we could be something special but if you’re not gonna stay then I’d rather know now before I get too involved because I’ve been here before and I don’t think I can survive going through that again because….”

“I’m staying.”

“Please Viv, just let me…..wait…what?”

“I said; I’m staying. I already decided.”

“When?”

“A few days ago.”

“Are you telling me that you let me go on and on when you’ve already decided?! You could have told me before I started rambling!”

“I was waiting for the right moment.”

“And this is it?”

“Well I thought about letting you continue because you look all cute when you go off on a rant but then I was worried about you not taking a breath so I thought I should step in.” Viv shrugged. “Apart from my agent, you’re the only person who knows. I haven’t even told Jonas yet. I want to see what the club offers me first.”

“Ooh very sneaky. What about Barcelona, what did you tell them?”

“My agent is going to deal with that.” Viv waved her hand noncommittally. She moved closer to Beth and gently held both of her hands. “Listen, I’m not good at this romantic stuff but I will say that I also think we could have something special here, and that’s one of the reasons why I want to stay. You’re the most important person in my life right now and I really want to see where this is going.”

Beth nodded and gave Viv a watery smile before she stepped into her arms and snuggled into her embrace.

“I have something for you,” Viv said and broke the hug. She headed to the spare room and came back a minute or two later and handed Beth a gift bag.

Beth gave her a suspicious look before she rummaged in the bag and pulled out a rectangular box.

“Is this gonna be the thing where the boxes get smaller and smaller and it turns out there’s nothing inside?”

“Just open it!” Viv laughed.

Beth did as she was told and opened the box. She moved the blue tissue paper out of the way and grinned when she saw the highland cow mug.

“My own mug? I love it, thank you.” Beth gave Viv a quick kiss.

“There’s more; look inside the mug.”

Beth tipped the mug upside down and looked at Viv when a key landed in the palm of her hand.

“It doesn’t have to mean anything big, it’s just so you can come over whenever you want.”

Beth nodded her understanding and turned the metal over in her hand.

“And what if I want to come over all the time and what if I want it to mean something big? Not yet but in the future.”

“Then I will tell you that I’m more than okay with that.”

Chapter Text

“Wait, what did you say?”

“I said, we need to make up the spare room for Ollie,” Beth said and walked to the spare room to prepare for the imminent arrival of Ollie, the three year old son of one of Beth’s friends, and Viv was hot on her heels.

“But why? I thought Charlie said we were only looking after him for the day.”

“She did but there’s been a change of plan. She didn’t realise the wedding doesn’t allow kids to go so she asked if he could stay overnight. Come on Viv, I’ve already told her we’ll do it and we’ve looked after Ollie before.”

“Yeah, for the afternoon, not overnight.”

“What’s the big deal, I thought you liked Ollie.”

“I do.”

“So why are you panicking?”

“I’m not panicking I just….I don’t know what to do with a three year old!”

“Of course you do. Anyway, it’s too late - they’re here now.” Beth finished making up the bed and patted Viv’s cheeks before she left the room to answer the door.

“Hi! Thanks for doing this at such short notice, I owe you a huge favour!” Charlie said and hugged Beth while Ollie shyly hid behind her legs. “Go and say hi to auntie Beffy and auntie Vivi.”

Beth crouched down to the child’s level and made a silly face and opened her arms. Ollie giggled and launched into Beth’s arms, all traces of his shyness disappeared in an instant.

“Where’s your wife?”

“Having a breakdown,” Beth joked.

“Again? She does this every time and she’s always fine. And I’m pretty sure Ollie loves her the most.”

“I know, I told her that.”

“VIVI!” Ollie yelled and ran towards Viv, who had to crouch down to catch the little boy or risk being knocked down. She lifted him high in the air and tickled him, making Ollie giggle loudly.

“I rest my case.” Charlie jokingly rolled her eyes.

****

Since it was a warm day, Beth and Viv decided to take Ollie to the local park for a picnic and a kick about.

They found a spot in the shade and laid the blanket on the grass and Ollie immediately made himself comfortable on Viv’s lap, his floppy blond hair tickling her nose.

Beth melted at the sight and pulled out her phone to take a photo. She sent it to Charlie and sorted out the lunches.

They ate their lunches (Ollie decided that Viv’s looked more appealing and asked for bites, and of course Viv obliged) and enjoyed their peaceful surroundings until:

“DOGGY!!!” Ollie yelled and leapt out of Viv’s lap and darted toward the woman walking her dog.

Viv and Beth chased after him and Viv scooped him up with one arm before he could get too far. She gently set him down on his feet and held him by the shoulders. She knew the little boy had sensitive tendencies and so she chose her words carefully.

“You can’t run off like that Ollie, if you want to go somewhere then you have to ask me or auntie Beffy and hold our hand, okay?”

“Okay. Can I stwoke the doggy? Pwease?”

“We have to check first, okay? Not all doggys are like Rona,” Beth explained.

“It’s okay if your son wants to stroke her, she’s friendly,” the woman said.

Beth and Viv shared an amused smile. Beth picked the little boy up and they approached the dog walker.

“Would you like to stroke her? She’s called Poppy.”

“Hi Poppy.” Ollie carefully patted the labradors head and giggled when the dog gently licked his hand. “Issa nice doggy.”

“Your son is adorable.”

Beth and Viv shared a look but didn’t correct the woman.

“He has his moments,” Beth said with a smile. “What do we say to the nice lady, Ollie?”

“Fank you! Bye bye!”

The lady shared a laugh with Beth and Viv before they all went on their way.

****

They took a detour to the ice cream van and sat down to enjoy their treat. Once they had finished, they decided it was time for a quick kick about.

Beth and Viv passed the ball around while Ollie chased it down and he giggled loudly when he managed to intercept a pass.

He gave the ball a good kick with his little legs and Viv exaggeratedly dived in slow motion and he squealed in delight at scoring a goal. He ran to Beth and hugged her legs in celebration.

They played for a short while longer before Ollie began to tire and they called it a day. Beth and Viv took it in turns to carry the little boy the short walk home from the park and Viv carefully laid him down on the spare bed for an afternoon nap.

Beth leaned against the doorway and watched on as Viv tucked the little boy in. Her heart doubled in size and she knew her heart eyes were on full display.

Viv finished tucking Ollie in and she blushed and smiled when she saw her wife standing there.

“What?” Viv asked. They moved out of the room and pulled the door halfway shut.

“Seeing the way you are with him is pretty hot you know.” Beth quirked an eyebrow and pulled Viv in for a hug followed by a kiss.

“Is that right?” Viv pulled their bodies closer together and dipped her head for a much deeper kiss. “It’s good practice for the real thing I suppose,” Viv said and tenderly cupped her wife’s slightly swollen belly with both hands before she bend down and gently kissed the bump and marvelled at the miracle of life growing inside.

Chapter Text

Viv and Beth returned home after a long, exhausting training session. Viv collected the mail on the way in while Beth flicked the kettle on.

Viv sorted through the mail and tossed the unimportant envelopes aside until she came across the one she was looking for. She came to stand behind her girlfriend at the kitchen counter and looped both arms over her shoulders as she held the envelope in front of her face.

“Wanna be my date?”

“What’s this?” Beth took the envelope from Viv’s hands and opened it. “An invitation to Mitchys wedding - I thought you were already going?”

“I am but I was originally part of the wedding party. And now I’m not, I asked Mitchy to send you an invitation.”

“Oh. Well, won’t that be weird?”

“Why?”

“Uh, because Lisa’s a bridesmaid,” Beth said in an obvious tone. “I just…” Beth sighed and turned in Viv’s arms. “I just don’t want it to be awkward for her. And I don’t want her to think we’re rubbing it in her face.”

“She doesn’t think that. I told you, she’s fine with us,” Viv said and gently held Beth by her hips. “If it makes you feel better, Kim and Katie are both going. Why don’t you text them and ask if they think it’s a good idea.”

Beth followed Viv’s advice and Katie was the first to reply.

“Katie thinks it’ll be okay.”

“Good. So do you want to be my date?”

“Of course I do.” Beth leaned up to kiss Viv’s lips. “When is it again?”

“Next Monday.”

“What? I don’t even know if I’ve got a dress,” Beth said and dashed off to the bedroom. She scoured the wardrobe for something suitable but came up empty. “I’ll have to go shopping this afternoon!”

“Why? This looks fine.” Viv pulled out a light blue pantsuit and held it up.

“I can’t wear a suit to Mitchy’s wedding!”

“Why not?”

“Because I want to wear a dress,” Beth said and Viv rolled her eyes at the obvious answer. She put the suit back into the wardrobe and paused when she felt Beth come up behind her and lean up to speak directly her ear. “And I want to wear something so sexy, you won’t be able to keep your hands off me, a dress so hot you’ll want to rip it off of me,” Beth teased and grinned when Viv’s breathing became a little shallow. “What do you think?”

“I think you need to go shopping and show me the dress the second you get home.”

****

Beth parked her car and peeked into the shopping bag once more. After searching through endless shops for hours, she had finally found the perfect dress and she was confident that it would blow her girlfriend’s mind (she had also conveniently taken a detour to a Victoria’s Secret store but that surprise would definitely wait until they got home from the wedding) She grinned at her purchases and made her way home.

“I’m back! And if this doesn’t make you want to rip it off me the second I put it on, then nothing will!” She called out and froze when she realised that they had a visitor. “Oh. Lisa, hi…. I didn’t know you were here.”

“Clearly.” Lisa raised an amused eyebrow and laughed through her nose. “I just came to collect the rest of my stuff. Apparently Viv forgot.”

“I didn’t forget, I just thought we said Tuesday,” Viv defended herself and sipped her tea.

“It is Tuesday,” Lisa and Beth spoke at the same time and Viv held up her hands in surrender.

Lisa awkwardly adjusted the boxes in her arms.

“Okay well, I’ll leave you to it. Bye.” Lisa left the room.

“Where are you going?” Viv asked when Beth moved to the front door.

“I need to talk to her.”

“I don’t think that’s a good idea right now.”

“Maybe not but I wanna try,” Beth said and dashed out of the house. “Lisa, wait! Lisa!”

Lisa sighed and slowed her pace.

“Have you got a minute? I just wanna say something…”

“Don’t say you’re sorry, please.” Lisa closed her eyes. “Because if you say you’re sorry then that means you regret you and Viv happening and I don’t want you to regret anything.”

Beth nodded and took a box from Lisa’s hands.

“I wasn’t actually gonna say that…I was going to say I really want us to still be friends but I don’t know if you want that. I know I fucked up our friendship,” Beth said in a soft, sad voice and Lisa frowned.

“Gal, don’t be daft - you didn’t fuck anything up and of course we’re still friends! It’s just…this is a huge, life changing thing for me and it’s still pretty hard getting used to it. I just…need some time, that’s all.”

“Okay.” Beth nodded and felt a weight fall off her shoulders. “Where are you staying?” Beth asked and followed Lisa in the direction of her car.

“Grace is letting me stay at hers for a while, until I find my own place.”

Beth nodded and saw Grace Fisk getting out of the car to help with the boxes.

“You can go back inside now,” Lisa said and Beth looked uncertain and she shuffled from foot to foot.

“I just…. want to know if we’re okay, you and me.”

“We will be,” Lisa said. “Like I said, I need some time, okay?”

“Okay.”

“Now get back inside and show Viv your dress!”

****

The ceremony was done, the speeches were told, the food had been eaten, the first dance had been danced and now the guests were being treated to an open bar and since the weather was still warm, the huge grounds were starting to fill up.

“Alright, all yous single bitches get in the middle of the garden,” Emma Mitchell called out and motioned for them to move. “That includes you, Miedema!”

“Why?” Viv called out and Mitchy rolled her eyes.

“Because I’m going to throw the bouquet!”

“I don’t know what that means.” Viv pulled a face and before she could move, Katie had linked through her arm to hold her in place.

Mitchy threw the flowers and some women grappled and jumped in the air to catch it and Viv watched them all completely unimpressed.

The flowers eventually dropped and landed effortlessly into Viv’s hands; she had caught the bouquet without even meaning to!

“Ayyyyy, nice one Miedema!” Katie hooted and hollered while Viv continued to look unimpressed.

“I don’t understand why this is a tradition.”

“You caught the bouquet, so you’re the next one to get married!” Katie lightly punched her arm.

“First off, oww! Secondly, I didn’t mean to catch it so it doesn’t mean anything and lastly, oww !”

“Fucking hell, don’t tell Meado that!” Katie teased and Viv rolled her eyes. “Where is Beffy anyway, I thought you said she was coming?”

“She is. She had some Nike thing earlier today but she’ll be here after.”

“She doesn’t have to come, I quite like having you all to myself,” Fara Williams jokingly flirted, and not for the first time that evening.

“Leave me alone!” Viv’s laughter died down and she turned around when she heard Beth’s voice. Viv looked at Beth from head to toe; her mouth suddenly became dry and she could feel her face growing warmer with a hint of a blush as her girlfriend finished talking with Kim and walked closer. Her blonde hair was curled around her face and shone bright like a halo around her head and the low, late evening sun illuminated her bright blue eyes and complimented the green dress she was wearing. “Wow, you look… wow .” Viv blinked and gently held Beth by the waist.

“Thanks. So you like the dress then?” Beth chuckled as Viv continued to look her up and down.

“Yeah, it’s gorgeous - you’re gorgeous.” Viv slowly ran her fingers over the smooth material and ducked her head when Beth leaned up to whisper in her ear.

“If you like the dress, just wait until we get home and I’ll show you what’s underneath the dress.” Beth quirked a teasing eyebrow and Viv was rendered completely speechless once again.

Chapter Text

Beth sighed in frustration at yet another sleepless night.

She wasn’t sure what the time was but she guessed it was the early hours of the morning. Her blue eyes blinked in the darkness and she tried to adjust her body into a more comfortable position but without success.

Sleeping on her front was out of the question and sleeping on her back made her feel like she couldn’t breathe which meant sleeping on her side was the only option.

Viv’s arm tightened around her and normally Beth would have sighed happily and snuggled back onto her embrace but she was tired and cranky and the action only served to annoy her.

Beth was in the last few weeks of pregnancy and although she was enjoying it, she was getting fed up and impatient - her body was aching and she was constantly exhausted.

She found herself getting snappy at Viv for the most trivial of things but thankfully Viv had the patience of a saint and knew not to take it personally.

It was safe to say they were both more than ready for the due date to arrive.

She turned her head to the side and wasn’t at all surprised to see that her wife was out for the count.

She huffed again, this time in jealousy at Viv’s ability to sleep through anything. Beth closed her eyes and tried to do the same.

****

The next morning Viv found her wife standing in the newly decorated nursery.

The room had been painted in simple pastel yellow, white and grey colours. A rocking chair sat in the corner next to the crib and a sizeable bookcase filled with numerous children’s books was placed in the opposite corner.

A space on the wall above the crib had been reserved for wooden blocks to spell out the baby’s (as yet to be decided) name along with any photographs they wanted to take.

Most of the preparations were done and now it was a waiting game until the big day.

Viv hung in the doorway for a moment before walking into the room and wrapping her arms around Beth from behind.

“Hey.” Viv propped her chin on Beth’s shoulder and gently rubbed her swollen tummy.

“Hey.”

“What’re you doing in here?”

“Just thinking.”

“Did you sleep at all last night?” Viv asked and Beth shook her head. “What can I do to help?”

“Make time go faster so I can get some rest.”

“Once the baby’s here, I think our years of rest are over. At least for the next eighteen years anyway and that’s if we’re lucky,” Viv said and Beth huffed. “I’m sorry, I know you’re uncomfortable but it’s not for much longer and then it’ll all be worth it.”

“I know.” Beth hummed her agreement and squeezed Viv’s hands. “I’m excited I just…I miss my mum and I wish she was here right now.”

“She is. She’s always here and she always will be,” Viv said and covered Beth’s heart with her hand. Beth nodded and wiped her wet cheeks as Viv kissed her temple. “Come on, I’ll make us a cup of tea and we can go through some names. I might even throw in a foot rub. What do you say?”

“That sounds amazing. But you don’t have to touch my feet - I know they’re gross.”

“I hate to break it to you lieverd, but they’ve always been gross!”

Beth feigned her offence but she knew her wife was right.

Viv helped her wife get settled on the sofa before she returned with the promised tea. She pulled Beth’s feet into her lap and began to gently knead the puffy ankles, lower legs and feet.

“We have five names, that’s it,” Beth laughed.

“Why is it so hard to pick something?”

“Because nothing goes with Meadema, except your millions of names and we’re not going for one of those if we have a girl.”

Viv rolled her eyes and reached for her tea.

“What?” Viv asked when Beth frowned in concentration. “Is it the baby?” She checked in alarm and was ready to spring into action if need be.

“No, I might have an idea,” Beth said and typed something out on her notes. “What if we did this?” She said and showed Viv her phone.

Viv read what Beth had written and typed something else before handing the phone back.

“Now it’s perfect.”

Beth swallowed the lump in her throat and nodded through a watery smile.

“I love it and I love you too.”

****

The next few weeks seemed to drag and fly by at the same time.

On one of the only nights Beth had finally managed to sleep, she had been woken up by shooting pains in her lower belly. As the pain continued and became more intense, she knew she was having contractions and so she woke Viv up and they quickly made it to the hospital.

On the outside, Viv was her usual cool, calm and collected self but on the outside, she was a complete bag of nerves.

After a long, slow and difficult labour and birth, it was finally time to meet their baby. The nurses checked over mother and baby and confirmed both were doing well before their screaming and squirming pink baby was placed into Beth’s waiting arms.

“Congratulations, you have a wonderfully healthy, and very loud, daughter.”

“You’re incredible, do you know that?” Viv asked and kissed Beth’s lips over and over again before tenderly kissing the top of their baby’s bald head. “I love you both so much.” Viv said and cried when their daughter reached out to grasp her finger with her tiny fist.

“Do we have a name?” The nurse asked and  Beth and Viv shared a smile.

“Yeah, we do.”

****

Although Beth’s dad and brother were the first to visit, Beth and Viv wanted to wait until Viv’s parents and brother, who had flown in from the Netherlands, arrived so they could all meet the new addition to their family at the same time.

“Can you at least tell us what her name begins with?” Beth’s dad asked and kept looking at the partially closed nursery door. “I can act surprised.”

“No dad. They’ll be here soon and you can all find out together.”

Soon after, Viv arrived home with her family in tow and after everyone greeted one another, it was time to meet the baby.

Beth entered the nursery and returned with a huge bundle of white blankets cradled in her arms.

Viv’s mum reached out to move the material to get a better look at her grandchild and everyone laughed when Flip, Viv’s childhood teddy bear, was revealed instead.

Viv followed her wife out of the nursery and everyone gasped when they saw the baby for the first time.

“She’s gorgeous.” Beth’s dad openly cried and grinned widely when his granddaughter opened her bright blue eyes to look at him.

“Everyone, meet Ammalie June Meadema.”

Chapter Text

Viv moved to the front door when she heard the doorbell. Tonight was New Year’s Eve and she had organised a small get together for a few friends and teammates.

Mana had been the first to arrive and judging by the continuous ringing of her doorbell the rest of the group, including Beth, had turned up.

“I found a couple of strays hanging around outside and took pity on them, I hope you don’t mind,” Katie Stengel pointed her thumb behind her toward Beth and Jordan and Viv jokingly rolled her eyes.

“Fine but if they misbehave, they’re your responsibility.”

“Hey!”

“Oi!”

Viv laughed and ushered them inside.

“We come baring gifts!” Jordan announced. She handed Viv the cases of beers and snacks and Viv placed them on the kitchen counter.

“There she is; Buchi baby!” Beth yelled and launched herself into the seat next to Mana, who simply laughed.

In truth, Mana was never completely sure what Beth was talking about but she found her antics amusing nonetheless.

Viv handed out drinks and they all clinked their glasses together in a cheers.

****

Several hours later, the group had consumed way too much food and drink and were content to chill out until the countdown to midnight.

“So let’s talk about relationships,” Katie started and Mana blushed and looked away while the rest of the group grimaced. “What? C’mon, we’re all friends here.”

“It’s complicated,” Jordan mumbled and took a swig of beer.

“I have given up on relationships. In fact, I’m thinking about joining a convent for my New Year’s resolution!” Beth declared and Viv laughed.

“I’ll join you.”

“C’mon, it’s not that bad.” Katie rolled her eyes at Beth and Viv. “You know what, let’s make a toast: to saying to hell with it all, and doing whatever the heck we want!”

“Cheers!”

“Let’s have a new start to the new year! Say it with me; ‘new year, new me!’” Katie grinned and the rest of the group voiced their displeasure. “What’s wrong now?”

“It’s a cheesy cliche,” Jordan supplied and the others agreed.

“Well, whatever - the countdown’s about to start…”

“5, 4, 3, 2, 1…. Happy new year!”

****

Jordan was meeting up with some other friends and left shortly after the midnight countdown and Katie and Mana weren’t far behind and decided to share a taxi home.

“And then there were two,” Beth said and Viv hummed her acknowledgment.

“You don’t have to help clear up.”

“I know but I don’t mind. Do you want another beer?” Beth held up a bottle.

“Sure, why not? Ah fuck it, I’ll clean up in the morning,” Viv slumped down on the couch next to Beth. “Honestly you don’t have to stay. You must have better things to do than hang out with me.”

“What, and go back to my sad, empty, lonely little flat and be by myself? No thank you.” Beth laughed derisively and sipped her beer.

“Oh come on, you must have a line of girls queuing up now that you’re single.”

“Yeah, an invisible line!”

“Why not though? You’re funny, kind, not too bad to look at…”

“Careful, you almost managed a whole sentence full of compliments.”

“Come on, I’m serious.” Viv nudged her.

“I could ask you the same thing.”

“Pfft, I’m not that special.”

“Oh please, you’re the GOAT! And you’re one of the best people I know. You’re amazing, don’t sell yourself short.”

Their eyes met and something between them changed. Maybe it was the alcohol, maybe it was the loneliness or maybe it was just them caught in the moment. Neither knew who made the first move but suddenly they were kissing.

Beth broke the kiss and stared at Viv, who shrugged.

“To hell with it, right?” Viv asked and Beth quickly nodded her agreement before they carried on kissing.

****

The first thing Beth noticed when she woke up was that someone appeared to be shining a very bright torch in her eyes while repeatedly bashing her head with a sledgehammer.

She cautiously opened her eyes and when she realised she wasn’t in her own bed and was in fact naked and was laying next to Vivianne Miedema, who was also very much naked, the memories of last night came flooding back.

“Oh my god,” Beth quietly groaned and rubbed her hands over her face.

She took another quick peek next to her and saw Viv was still fast asleep on her stomach and she tried not to look at how the covers had fallen down to the small of her back.

Beth carefully got up and took a shower. She got dressed in the same clothes from the night before and made a coffee.

Not long after, Viv emerged from the bathroom dressed in an old pair of sweat pants and a lovingly worn hoodie, with the hood pulled up over her head. She made herself a coffee and sat opposite Beth at the kitchen table.

The atmosphere was slightly awkward and for once Beth was struggling with her words. After all, what could she say to her friend and teammate the morning after sleeping together? She settled on keeping it simple.

“Hey.”

“Hey.”

“So….last night…?” Beth eventually said and Viv nodded before she sipped her coffee. “Should we….talk about it or…?”

“If you want. I don’t regret it, if that’s what you’re worried about,” Viv simply stated and Beth nodded.

“I don’t regret it either. But…the thing is, I’m not looking for a relationship and I’m not into casual either. I’m not trying to be a dick, I’m just not ready for anything right now.”

“I get it,” Viv said. “It’s too soon for me too.”

“Okay, good.” Beth exhaled. “So we’re just two friends who had a good time, a very good time.” Beth looked at Viv. “You….did have a good time, right?”

“Yes Beth, I had a great time.” Viv tried not to laugh.

“Right okay, just checking.”

“Nobody has to know what happened if you don’t want them to but they might ask who this came from…” Viv stood up and lowered one side of her pants to reveal a large red mark on her hip.

“Fuck, did I do that?!”

“Well it wasn’t the tooth fairy.”

“Shut up!” Beth laughed. “That’s okay, at least it’s not in a super obvious place.”

“Mmhmm,” Viv agreed. “But then how do you suppose I explain this?” She removed her hoodie and showed Beth her neck, where another large red mark had started to bloom.

Beth winced and stared at it for a moment before she spoke;

“So, uh, how believable is the tooth fairy story?”

Chapter Text

Beth stirred when the bed dipped beside her and she rolled onto her side.

“Viv? What’re you doing?” She asked with her eyes still closed. Her voice was raspy from a lack of sleep after being woken up several times during the night.

“It’s okay, go back to sleep. I’ve brought someone to see you,” Viv whispered.

Beth opened her eyes to see Ammalie laying in the middle of the bed, happily kicking her chubby legs in the air while chewing on her tiny fist.

“Hi baby,” Beth cooed and was rewarded with a huge gummy smile. “Look at your butter wouldn’t melt face. You’re not bothered that you kept mummy awake all night, are you? No you’re not!” She spoke in a soft baby voice and Ammalie giggled loudly. She looked up at her wife and frowned when she noticed that she was dressed. “Do you have to go to work?”

“Just for a little while,” Viv said. “I’ll be back by lunchtime.” She hovered over their daughter and covered her face with kisses before she blew raspberries on her squishy tummy, which made Ammalie loudly squeal and pull on Viv’s hair. “Ow! She gets that from you, you know,” Viv teased and straightened out her Arsenal training kit. It had been a few years since she had retired from professional football but she was still proud to wear the Arsenal badge. “Okay, I’m going now. See you at lunchtime.” Viv bent down to kiss Beth’s lips and then Ammalie before she left the room.

“So what shall we do today?” Beth asked and Ammalie responded by shoving her tiny foot into her own mouth. “Thanks for your input.”

****

After breakfast, Beth messaged her friend Charlie to ask if she and her son Ollie were free. The weather was warm and sunny and Beth had suggested spending the day in their swimming pool and garden. Charlie had responded almost immediately and said that they would be over in half an hour.

Beth prepared some refreshing mocktails and put them in the fridge for later. She dressed Ammalie in her bathing suit, slathered her in sunscreen and popped her sun hat on her bald head. She heard the intercom sound and opened the door to Charlie and Ollie.

“I wanna go swimming!” Ollie yelled and Charlie held him by the shoulder before he could go tearing off outside.

“What do we say first?”

“Pwease can I go swimming?”

“Good boy for saying please but you haven’t said hello to Beth and Ammalie yet.”

“Hi Beff, hi Lee-Lee,” he said, not managing to pronounce Ammalie just yet. “Can I give Lee-Lee ‘moochies?” He asked and Beth nodded and lowered the baby down to his puckered lips.

“Be gentle,” Charlie reminded him. Ollie nodded and did as instructed before he pulled back and screwed up his face in disgust.

“She’s a stinky baby!”

Charlie was about to tell him not to be rude before she noticed Beth making the same face.

“Yeah, she is a bit stinky. You can go in if you want, I’m just going to quickly change her. Oh and I’ve put drinks in the fridge if you want one.”

Ollie practically tore his clothes off until he was down to his trunks and Charlie had to run to stop him from jumping into the water.

Beth joined them shortly after and stood in the shallow end with Ammalie and Ollie, who was swimming with inflatable armbands and a flutter board.

The house and garden were huge.

Beth and Viv had worked hard and were illustrious in their careers, often being considered as some of the worlds best players, and so they decided to spend some of their hard earned on money on a five bedroom mansion, complete with a home gym, cinema room, two large offices, a games room and sprawling acres and acres of land that included a large swimming pool, goal posts, a summer house and several well maintained flower beds, which Beth was not allowed to touch.

Viv arrived home just before noon and when Ammalie spotted her, she held out her arms for a cuddle.

“Hi lieverd,” Viv cooed. She picked her up and kissed her cheek before leaning down to kiss her wife. “Hi Ollie.” She waved to the little boy swimming around in circles.

“Did you have fun at work?” Beth asked and Viv pulled an unimpressed face. “There’s a cold drink in the fridge for you.”

“That’s okay, I’ll just have a cup of tea.”

“Tea? In this weather?!” Charlie asked and Viv nonchalantly shrugged.

“Babe, can you put her down for a nap in a minute?” Beth spoke through a yawn.

“Looks like you could do with one too,” Charlie said. “You know, if you ever want a night off, I’m more than happy to take her.”

“That would be great, thanks. Me and Ammalie could do with a bit of peace,” Viv teased and winked at her wife, who responded by splashing her. Viv laughed and took the baby inside.

****

Later that night, after giving Ammalie a bath, her bottle and putting her to bed, Beth and Viv were curled up on the sofa. The tv was on some random game show that neither were watching.

“I think we should take Charlie up on her offer,” Viv suggested.

“Hmm?” Beth replied absentmindedly. Viv was softly running her fingers up and down her arm and the movement was making her relaxed and extra sleepy.

“She could take Ammalie for the night. We could go out to dinner or I could make us something here and then we could have an evening all to ourselves.”

“That sounds good,” Beth agreed and shifted when she felt Viv run a finger over the waistband of her pyjama shorts. “Wait, are you trying to get in my pants?”

“Uh, yeah. Are you complaining?”

“Uh, no I’m not,” Beth laughed and turned around to kiss her wife. She pulled back when she didn’t feel Viv respond and she rolled her eyes when she realised her wife had fallen fast asleep.

Chapter Text

After training was done for the day, Beth and Viv had managed to quietly slip away from their teammates and escape to the sanctuary of Viv’s apartment for some much needed alone time.

They had been seeing each other in secret for the last few weeks, not quite ready to tell their teammates about their budding relationship.

Not because they were ashamed of one another, it was quite the opposite in fact, but because they wanted to explore their growing feelings without prying eyes and outside influences, no matter how well intentioned they might be.

They were currently laying face to face on Viv’s bed, contently trading soft, slow kisses for what felt like hours.

Beth broke the kisses for a moment so they could have a breather and she tenderly ran her fingers through the soft, errant baby hairs that had fallen loose from Viv’s bun and continued to trail her fingers over Viv’s face as if she were committing it to memory.

“You’re so beautiful,” Beth whispered and she smiled when a blush decorated Viv’s face.

“You make me feel like I am,” Viv replied and looked into Beth’s eyes. But the moment was broken when they both dissolved into giggles. “Oh my god, that was so cringy, I’m sorry. Ugh, I’m so bad at this.” Viv closed her eyes and grimaced.

“Hmm, I’d say you’re doing alright.” Beth looked at the hand drawing random patterns on her hip.

“You know what I mean. I can’t do flirting and the sentimental stuff. I don’t mean to be so awkward.”

“Hey, come on. I told you before; your awkwardness is endearing. You’re a big, awkward tattie.”

“A what?”

“An awkward tattie. It’s not a bad thing, trust me, it’s part of your charm.”

“I suppose.” Viv wasn’t convinced.

“And I’m not great at the sentimental things either but we don’t have to be - we’ll do our own thing and figure things out as we go along.”

That seemed to appease Viv enough to resume their languid kisses. Beth decided to up the ante a little and she slipped her hand under Viv’s simple cotton tee shirt and trailed her fingers up and down the warm, smoothness of Viv’s skin.

Beth deepened the kiss and Viv moved a little closer and slipped a thigh in between Beth’s.

Although they had already slept together a few months ago, they hadn’t gone beyond kissing and lightly fooling around since then.

The more time they spent together the more they connected on an emotional level and they wanted to base their fledgling relationship on that deeper connection rather than just the physical aspects and even though it had been considerably enjoyable for the both of them, they both decided that the drunken hook up at New Years didn’t count as their first time together.

They wanted to make it special so they both agreed that the next time they slept together would be classed as their first time.  And as hands began to tenderly caress and roam into undiscovered territory, now felt like the right time.

“Are you sure?” Beth checked and watched Viv’s face for any sign of uncertainty.

“I’m sure. Please I want to.”

“Me too,” Beth said before she rolled on top and reconnected their lips in a passionate and fiery kiss that held a promise of the pleasure that awaited them.

****

“Something’s different about you;” was the first thing Katie said to Beth when she saw her at training the next day.

“Like what?”

“I dunno. You just look different somehow.”

Beth took a sip from her water bottle to bide herself some time before answering.

“Um, I got my hair done yesterday afternoon,” she offered and Katie got that devilish look on her face, the same one she got when she was about to say or ask something inappropriate.

“So do the curtains and carpet match now then, or should I just ask Kyah Simon?” Katie teased and laughed loudly when Beth almost choked on her water.

“Hold on, what do you need to ask Kyah?” Steph asked only hearing the tail end of the conversation before realisation hit her. “Oh no, Beffy, please say you didn’t!”

“Didn’t what?” Caitlin joined in with the questioning.

“Hook up with Kyah.”

“Oh dude,” Caitlin pulled a disappointed face.

“I didn’t! Wait, aren’t you friends with her?” Beth questioned.

“Yeah, but I’m also friends with you which is why I’m telling you she’s so not your type.”

“I know that, that’s why I didn’t sleep with her!”

“Don’t bother denying it Meado, I’ve seen the comments on her Instagram. You’re such a little flirt!” Katie teased.

“I already told you; we went out for dinner once, ages ago, and nothing happened,” Beth insisted. She didn’t know why everyone seemed to be invested in her sex life all of a sudden but it was beginning to irritate her a little bit, especially since they were all way off base. “I haven’t slept with anyone since…” Beth paused when she accidentally caught Viv’s eye. “Since Daan.”

“Oh shit, sorry Beffy.” Steph pulled her into a  tight hug. “You’re not still caught up on her, are you? We didn’t mean to upset you, did we,” Steph said and glared at Katie. “You’re so insensitive,” she directed at the Irish woman, who rolled her eyes.

“I’m not upset. And I’m 100% over her, honest.”

Steph, Caitlin and Katie missed the significant look between Beth and Viv, but Jen saw it and Beth quickly cut her eyes to her friend when she realised Jen was rapidly putting two and two together and silently pleaded with her to keep quiet.

“We should head out there; I heard something about a beep test if we’re out late,” Jen said and the players quickly began filing out of the locker room. Jen sent a smile Beth’s way that said; ‘I won’t say anything but I hope you know that you can talk to me about it.’

And Beth did know that and she would tell her soon.

****

Beth’s mum, June, felt well enough to visit and was arriving later that day with their family dog, Rona.

That evening, Beth and Viv were taking June out for dinner but before that, Beth planned to tell her mum that she and Viv were more than teammates and friends. And when she texted Viv to let her know that her mum knew about them, Viv responded in her usual deadpan humour;

“Well, I can’t run away now.”

At the restaurant, Beth was poring over the menu and had decided to order three courses, while Viv and June decided to order a starter to share.

Beth’s mum and Viv chatted away about various topics, including Beth when she was younger.

Viv found those stories to be particularly compelling and Beth playfully rolled her eyes as her mum retold the story about her trying to befriend a swan but ended up almost accidentally strangling it when she tried to cuddle it.

Beth felt happiness burst in her chest at the sight of two of the most important women in her life becoming firm friends by bonding and laughing at each other’s jokes (even if some of them were at her expense) as if they were old friends having a catch up and it was in that moment that she knew her mum truly and utterly adored Viv.

Chapter Text

The first time it happened, Viv was mortified and apologetic.

She was at a loose end and was debating whether to have dinner and an early night when her phone pinged with a new message.

Beth: Hey, how’re you doing?

Viv smiled at the simple yet meaningful text. Ever since she and Lisa had broken up, Viv felt as though she was floundering a bit and Beth, having been through a recent break up of her own, had pledged to check in and offer her support.

Once upon a time, Viv may have found the constant check ins a little intrusive and irritating but she discovered that the more she got to know Beth, the more she genuinely enjoyed her company. She thought about her reply before she settled on an equally simple answer.

Viv: I’m okay.

Viv screwed her nose up and quickly deleted it; she was shooting for simple but that was a little too casual. She was thinking about a different reply when Beth beat her to it.

Beth: you could come over if you’re not too busy. We could hang out, watch a movie or something. Have you had dinner yet?

Viv: That sounds great actually. No I haven’t eaten yet.

Beth: great you can cook! 😜

Viv laughed at the cheeky comment and told Beth she would be over in twenty minutes.

****

Of course Beth was teasing about making Viv cook and had ordered Chinese food in anticipation of Viv’s arrival.

The two had spent enough time in each other’s company to know what they liked to order and Viv was touched that Beth had remembered all her favourites.

After ploughing through the food, they settled down to watch Netflix. Beth threw a blanket over them and got comfortable on the sofa.

“Why are you all the way over there, Vivianne? Move closer, we’re losing vital heat.”

Viv did as she was told and scooched over.

“What do you wanna watch?” Beth brought up the Netflix screen.

“I don’t mind.” Viv shrugged. “We can continue watching that if you like.”

“I’m halfway through the series though. If you haven’t watched it, you’ll be lost.”

“Give me the quick synopsis then.”

Beth gave Viv a brief summary of the story and Viv listened and nodded as her friend chatted away.

At the end of the episode, Viv had rested her head on Beth’s shoulder and by the time the next episode had ended, Beth noticed that Viv hadn’t said anything and was completely silent.

She assumed Viv was enjoying the show and was about to ask her opinion when she realised that Viv had not only fallen asleep but she had fallen asleep on her shoulder.

That had never happened before and Beth was unsure what to do. She didn’t want to wake her friend up but now she needed to pee. She decided to move subtly and slowly and hoped the movement would gently wake Viv up.

Viv stirred a little and nuzzled in further. Beth smelt amazing and was so cuddly, soft and comfy, Viv felt she could stay here forever. Her fuzzy brain caught up and she awoke with a start.

“Shit, I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to fall asleep on you!”

“It’s fine…”

“No it’s not! I just…haven’t been sleeping very well and…now I’ve made things awkward and…..”

“Vivianne!” Beth interrupted and Viv quietened down. “I told you it’s fine and I meant it okay. And why didn’t you tell me you haven’t been sleeping?” She asked softly. “You can trust me.”

“I do it’s just….I’m… it’s kind of embarrassing…”

“You can tell me. I won’t laugh.”

“Promise?”

“I promise.”

“I don’t like sleeping alone because I’m…. I’m scared of the dark… a little bit.” Viv closed her eyes and opened them when she felt a soft hand against her cheek.

“Thank you for telling me. And you’re staying here tonight, no arguments,” Beth said and Viv didn’t even try and protest. “I’ll get you something to sleep in but first I really need to pee.”

****

The next time it happened was on the team bus after an away game against Leicester. The team had been stuck in traffic for over an hour on the way back to London.

Viv had complained that she was getting a migraine so Steph moved seats to sit with Jen and Katie while Beth switched off the overhead lights.

“Why don’t you nap for a bit? I can be quiet.”

Viv gave her an ‘oh really?’ look and Beth rolled her eyes and made a face.

Viv folded her jumper into a ball and placed it against Beth’s shoulder.

“Make yourself comfy, why don’t you?” Beth teased.

“Thanks, I will.” Viv settled down and closed her eyes.

The rest of the girls knew about Beth and Viv’s burgeoning relationship and of course they were all happy and supportive but some of them couldn’t help but take the piss, particularly Katie and Jen.

So when Beth noticed them blowing kisses, she stuck her middle finger up at them. She leaned her head against the top of Viv’s and closed her eyes as she too took a nap.

****

The next time it happened was when the team were at Kim’s house.

The girls had decided to have a BBQ in Kim’s garden to celebrate Beth, Viv and Kim getting through a particularly gruelling rehab session, Beth and Viv with their ACL injuries and Kim with her hamstring injury.

Kim and Lia were happy to play the roles of joint team mum and were in charge of the food, while Lotte was their faithful deputy and had been tasked with chopping vegetables for the veggie kebabs.

The group tucked into the food with gusto and Leah held up her drink in a cheers to the chefs.

After the food had been demolished (which prompted Kim to jokingly call them a bunch of locusts) the team congregated outside in Kim’s compact but well maintained garden.

Beth and Viv shared the sofa so they could stretch out their tired legs and Beth smiled when Viv curled up beside her. For some reason Viv had been extra cuddly today and Beth didn’t know why but she certainly wasn’t complaining.

“You’re such a softie,” Beth cooed and kissed the back of Viv’s hand before she played with her fingers. “Are you okay?”

“I’m just tired from rehab,” Viv said through a yawn. She slowly moved positions so that her head was resting in Beth’s lap and sighed contentedly when Beth started to stroke her hair and within minutes she had fallen asleep, glasses still on and bucket hat askew.

“I hope you don’t plan on moving anytime soon Meado,” Jen said with a laugh.

“Yeah, don’t wake up sleeping beauty!” Katie joined in.

“You know what, that’s a great idea. I could look into getting one of those little bells and you can all be my servants!” Beth rubbed her hands together.

“Hmm I’ve got a couple of suggestions on where you can put that bell….” Katie said and the group laughed loudly.

“Guys, don’t wake her up, I wanna take a quick photo,” Steph said and got her phone out. “Aww, cute.”

“I was actually thinking less cute, more about how we can use it for leverage!” Katie grinned devilishy.

“Leverage for what?” Steph asked.

“I dunno, I’ll think of something.”

“I don’t think she’ll care to be honest with you,” Beth admitted and Katie shrugged.

“Does that happen a lot then, the napping?” Caitlin asked and tried not to laugh as Viv began to softly snore.

Beth looked at the photo Steph sent her and she smiled at the sight of her girlfriend looking cute and out for the count while she herself looked resigned to her fate of human pillow. Of course she didn’t mind at all but it was fun to pretend she did.

“Yep, pretty much 24/7.”

Chapter Text

Viv knew what happened the very second Laura collapsed to the ground.

Beth knew, Leah knew, the medical staff knew, everyone in the stadium knew and Viv was certain all the supporters watching at home knew; it was the injury with those dreaded three letters that had ripped through Arsenal.

Viv thought she was going to be sick and she screwed her eyes shut to keep the tears at bay. She could hear Beth speaking softly and squeezing her fingers but she couldn’t make out what she was saying over the white noise and static ringing in her ears.

“Vivi?”

“Sorry, what did you say?”

“I said, we’ll go and get her mum and see her in the dressing room,” Beth repeated and Viv nodded.

“Hold up, I’m coming too,” Leah announced and the three of them headed pitch side to meet Laura’s stretcher.

****

A few days later the diagnosis came and it was exactly what the team feared; Laura had injured her ACL and had joined Beth, Viv and Leah as the newest member of the least desirable club.

Beth, Viv and Leah made huge efforts to help and support one another through their rehabilitation but it was tough; much, much harder than any of them had anticipated.

One evening over dinner, Beth had brought up the idea of letting Laura stay with her and Viv after she had had surgery and Viv agreed without hesitation.

They decided that Leah would accompany Laura to the hospital and Beth would pick them both up when Laura was ready to go home.

“I don’t want to be in the way,” Laura had started to protest and Beth shook her head.

“You won’t be. We have more than enough room and trust me, you can’t do anything by yourself after surgery.”

Laura opened her mouth to protest again and this time Viv interrupted.

“Don’t bother arguing with us because you won’t win.”

Laura eventually agreed with their reasoning and moved in later that week.

Living with Beth and Viv was easy and the young Austrian immediately felt at home and on the first night, Laura wanted to do something to show her gratitude.

She knew that she couldn’t do much given her limited mobility so when the couple suggested a movie night, Laura offered to get the snacks.

Moving around on her crutches was awkward and clunky and she was still adjusting but she was determined to do it.

Beth and Viv kept a careful eye on their teammate and friend and were ready to help if needed but they knew from their own experiences that sometimes the help, no matter how well intended, could be frustrating.

Laura filled the bowls with the various snacks and tried to determine how best to carry the bowls and use her crutches at the same time. She tried her best but before she could make it back from the kitchen, the glass bowl slipped through her hand and shattered on the hard kitchen floor.

She huffed and muttered something in German. Beth didn’t know what she said but from looking at Viv’s shocked expression, she figured out it was a curse word.

“Oi, how do you know that word?” Viv asked and got the broom out to sweep the floor.

“What does it mean?” Beth asked and Laura opened her mouth to answer.

“Don’t repeat it!” Viv quickly cut in.

“Fine, I’ll ask Manu later.” Beth rolled her eyes.

“Sorry for the mess. I thought I could do it.” Laura looked close to tears and Beth gave her a hug.

“Hey don’t worry about it, Henry will clean it up in no time,” Beth said and Laura frowned in confusion.

“Who is Henry?”

“Henry the hoover,” Beth explained but Laura was still confused.

“You gave your hoover a name?”

“No, it’s the name of the brand!” Beth got the red hoover from the cupboard and showed Laura. “See, Henry the hoover.”

Laura looked at Viv who gave her a look that said ‘don’t ask’, and so Laura decided not to.

****

“Honey I’m home!” Beth chuckled to herself as she walked through the front door.

“How was your promo thingy?” Viv asked.

“‘Promo thingy’?” Beth parroted back. “I’m a huge star, I’ll have you know.”

“Yes of course, my mistake.” Viv jokingly rolled her eyes.

“Where’s Laura?”

“Having a nap.”

“Is she okay?”

“Yeah, she just said she was tired.”

“How’s the article coming along?”

“Nearly done,” Viv said. She finished typing and saved her work. She clocked the multiple bags in her girlfriend’s hands and her eyes lit up. “Is that what I think it is?”

“Why yes it is, Vivianne. I stopped by at your favourite restaurant after my ‘promo thingy’. Am I the best girlfriend or what?”

“Hmmm….” Viv pretended to think and Beth gave her a look. “Of course you are. I love you.” She leaned in for a kiss.

“Are you taking to me or the food?”

“You of course. And also the food.” Viv laughed at her own joke and the couple settled down on the couch.

Once the food had been eaten, Viv snuggled up against her girlfriend with the intention of having her own nap. She got comfortable and closed her eyes.

Just then, the spare room door opened and Laura stepped out.

“Hi darlin’, did you have a good nap?” Beth asked and Laura nodded. “There’s plenty of food if you’re hungry.”

“Actually, I’m going out. Teyah messaged, she said some of the girls are going out for dinner and she asked if I wanted to go,” Laura said.

“Who else is going?”

“Vic, Ke and Gio.”

“Gio?” Viv questioned with her eyes still closed.

“What’s wrong with that? I thought you liked her."

“Of course we do but just make sure she doesn’t lead you astray,” Beth said.

“What do you mean?”

“You’ll be going for dinner one minute and then before you know it, you’ll be abseiling down the O2 or something,” Viv said.

“I don’t think that’ll happen.” Laura laughed. “Could it?” She asked nervously.

“It’s Gio. Anything can happen.”

“Ignore her hun. Don’t forget to take a key,” Beth said and nodded toward the hook by the door.

“Actually I think we’re all staying at Tey’s tonight.”

“Still take one, just in case. And can you please text us when you get there just so we know you’re okay?” Viv asked.

Laura was about to laugh thinking that Viv was teasing her until she saw the serious look on her face.

“Okay I will.” Just then Laura’s phone pinged with a text from the girls to say they were outside so Laura said her goodbyes and awkwardly hobbled to the door.

Viv looked at Beth when she heard her laugh through her nose.

“What?”

“They grow up so fast.”

Chapter Text

Viv whined as the alarm sounded. She’d been in such a deep sleep and she felt like she could have another couple of hours, at least.

Beth untangled herself from Viv’s arms and switched off the alarm.

“That’s better.”

“Mmm.”

The couple were enjoying the rare occasion of a late, lazy morning after going through a very intense rehab session the day before.

“You know what we need?” Viv asked through a yawn. She tucked an arm behind her head and reached up to touch Beth’s necklace with the other hand. Her fingers and thumb gently caressed the smooth gold and she waited for the inevitable silly answer.

“A coffee? Breakfast in bed? No wait, a hairbrush; although that’s mainly for you Curly Sue,” Beth teasingly sang the last part.

“That was a rhetorical question, by the way.”

“Oh, was it?” Beth stuck her tongue out and propped her chin on her closed fist and shrugged her shoulders. “Go on, enlighten me on what we need.”

“We need a weekend away. Just the two of us.”

“Wait a minute, are you suggesting a dirty weekend? Vivianne Miedema, I had you down as a classy lady ! And besides, we don’t need a weekend away for it to be dirty,” Beth grinned cheekily and leaned down for a quick kiss.

Viv laughed and nudged her shoulder.

“Where do you want to go?” Beth asked.

“We don’t have to go abroad, the English countryside would be perfect. I’ve seen so many pretty villages here that I’d like to visit.”

“Oh, so you want a staycation not a hollibobs.”

“I have no idea what you just said. I’m not even sure that’s English.”

“Blah, blah, blah!”

Viv laughed at the silliness and began to search for weekend getaway deals.

****

The couple decided on a weekend break in the Cotswold and had booked an exclusive suite at a private, five star hotel.

Privacy was something that was important to the couple and they were looking forward to having a whole weekend of uninterrupted time together.

The décor in their suite was luxuriously expensive and tasteful. It had a huge four poster bed and a spacious bathroom with a freestanding bathtub and separate shower.

The hot tub was exclusively available to them and was housed on a secluded terrace, which they really appreciated.

Beth put their bags beside the vanity table while Viv flopped backward onto the bed and heaved out a content sigh.

“What do you want to do first?”

“I want to do nothing,” Viv said and patted the space beside her.

Beth kicked off her trainers and settled in beside her.

“Why don’t we order some room service? I saw something about complimentary champagne, we could have it in the hot tub.”

“Maybe later,” Viv said and smoothly moved closer to kiss her girlfriend.

“I thought you said you didn’t want a dirty weekend?” Beth teased.

“I never said that,” Viv teased back and Beth laughed before moving even closer.

****

After spending the afternoon enjoying each others company, the couple decided to explore the town.

Viv was keen to learn the history behind the village and since Beth found Viv’s thirst for knowledge and intelligence extremely attractive, she was more than happy to indulge her.

They walked down the High street and Viv was particularly taken by the old, historic buildings. She pulled out her camera and pulled Beth in for a photo.

They stopped for a late lunch at a tea room and enjoyed afternoon tea in the beautiful garden.

Viv delighted in teasing Beth by putting cream then jam on her scones and laughed when her girlfriend disapprovingly shook her head.

“What have I told you before? Jam then cream.”

“I like it better this way.”

“Well I like it better this way,” Beth said and smeared a dollop of cream on Viv’s nose. Viv’s eyes and face scrunched up in laughter and Beth quickly snapped a photo.

After lunch, they visited the market hall before they walked hand in hand along the canal. They reached a row of thatched cottages and Viv asked Beth to take a picture of her in front of them.

Beth and Viv loved living in London but they were enjoying being away from the hustle and bustle of the busy city. They walked slowly and took in the peaceful and serene surroundings.

Until something caught Beth’s attention.

Before Viv had the chance to process what was happening, Beth had let go of her hand and was hurriedly walking toward a dog walker.

“Oh what a beautiful doggy! What’s his name?” Beth asked the woman and bent down to pet the friendly and excited beagle.

“Barkley.”

“Barkley?! As in a dogs bark? That’s brilliant!” Beth practically collapsed in laughter and the woman joined in.

“His brother is called Mr Woofington,” the woman said and Beth continued to laugh loudly.

Viv took the opportunity to slip away unnoticed while Beth was occupied and pulled her camera out of her bag.

She took a few shots of the landscape, some buildings and sign posts and decided to edit them later to give them an edgy feel.

Viv saw Beth walking towards her with a huge smile, which she returned, and she lifted up her arm for Beth to slide under.

“Making friends?”

“Yep, you know me.”

Beth linked her fingers with Viv’s hand hanging over her shoulder and they walked further down the cobbled street.

“Vivi….?”

“No.”

“You don’t even know what I’m gonna say!”

“You want a dog.”

“Oh that’s a great idea, let’s get one!”

Viv rolled her eyes and laughed.

“Why don’t we look after Rona next week instead?” Viv suggested and Beth nodded. “And then maybe we can go to Battersea again. Just to look though.”

Beth seemed happy enough with that idea and the couple continued their slow walk along the quiet street.

“Wanna head back now?” Beth asked.

“Already? I want to see the church first.”

“Well we can but I thought we could have champagne in our hot tub and since it’s such a nice evening, it would be a shame if we didn’t take advantage.”

“You’re right, it would be a terrible shame. And anyway the church has been here since like the 15th century so what’s one more day?” Viv said and Beth laughed as her girlfriend picked up the pace.

Chapter Text

“What about this one?” Beth held up a light grey trouser suit with a mint green shirt.

“No, I liked the other one better.” Viv pointed to the black suit.

Beth was trying on new clothes for her MBE ceremony in a few days time and had asked Viv to help her pick out an outfit.

She already had a number of suits and outfits at home but those were standard suits from the high street and while she wasn’t a snob by any stretch, she decided that she couldn’t meet the future King in a Marks and Spencer suit, no matter how comfortable and fashionable it might be.

And so she had done something that she wouldn’t normally do; she had reached out to a company who made bespoke, made to measure suits and dropped her name.

Beth had internally cringed the entire time but the company were only too happy to help out especially when their outfit would get plenty of promotion at such a prestigious event.

Naturally Viv had teased her about it but had soon shut up when Beth had arranged a suit for her too.

“Okay, last one.” Beth exited the changing stall to show Viv. “Ta da!”

“Wow.” Was all Viv could manage to say.

The peach coloured trouser suit with the white silk shirt suited Beth and matched her skin tone perfectly.

“Yeah?” Beth checked and smoothed out the material.

“Yeah. That’s the one.” Viv nodded. She made sure their personal shopping assistant was occupied and pulled Beth in by the belt loops. She quickly kissed her girlfriend before she smoothed down the jacket lapels. “You’re beautiful,” Viv declared and dropped her voice to a whisper. “And your ass looks fantastic in those pants.”

“Viv!” Beth blushed and lightly nudged Viv’s shoulder.

****

A chauffeured car had been arranged to take them to and from Windsor Castle and Beth’s dad and brother had traveled down from Yorkshire to accompany her and Viv to the ceremony.

“I’m really nervous. What if I fall over flat on my face, or worse, my arse?”

“You’re not going to fall over.”

“I might; I can’t walk in these heels.” Beth fidgeted with the buckle and walked a few tentative steps. “See? And what if I accidentally call Prince William “Big Willy”? Or even worse, call him “Big Willy” and then fall flat on my face or my arse?”

“Beth, come on…” Viv said and gently pulled her girlfriend closer and held her waist. “And please don’t say the words “big Willy” again; that’s gross.” Viv made a disgusted face.

“Sorry. You know what I’m like when I’m nervous,” Beth whined and tightly hugged Viv. They stood in a comfortable silence and Viv rubbed a calming hand up and down Beth’s back. “I wish my mum was here.”

“I know baby,” Viv said. “She is with you. She’s right here - ” Viv tenderly kissed her temple. “And right here, always.” She lightly ran two fingers over Beth’s heart. “And she’s so, so proud of you.”

“I’ve just done my make up, don’t be making me cry.” Beth swallowed the lump in her throat and blinked away the tears. “And you can’t be meeting the future king looking like that. Come here,” she said and fixed Viv’s crooked collar on her smart white suit jacket and tucked a few wayward strands of hair behind her ear. “What?”

“Like I said; your mum is right here.” Viv smiled and Beth returned it.

There was a quiet knock on the door and both women turned their attention to it.

“Are you nearly ready? The car’s here,” Beth’s dad spoke through the door.

“We’ll be right there,” Beth answered.

“Are you ready?”

“As ready as I’ll ever be,” Beth said and took a deep breath. She took a couple of steps toward the door and Viv immediately reached out her hands when Beth stumbled. “Whoops.”

“Maybe we’ll take some trainers for you, just in case.”

****

Windsor Castle was absolutely majestic and Viv was totally in her element. She loved reading about the history and walking around the pristinely maintained grounds. Ben had jokingly called her “Lady Vivianne Miedema” in a posh accent which caused Viv to pull a displeased expression.

The family walked further into the grounds and small movement to their right caught their attention; a little Robin was sitting on the fence, watching them.

They continued walking toward their destination while the Robin carried on following them and watching them.

They all knew what a robin symbolised; a robin meant a loved one was near and the family firmly believed it was June coming to join them.

****

The ceremony went smoothly and Beth neither tripped nor called Prince William an inappropriate nickname and instead chatted to him like he was an old friend, prompting Viv to dub her an arse licker when he was out of earshot.

Beth joined up with Lucy Bronze for photos and interviews before it was time for lunch, which had been put on for the attendees and their families.

Richard held up his glass in a cheers to his daughter and Ben and Viv followed suit.

“I’ll keep it short because I don’t want to embarrass you.”

“Or give you a big head!” Ben teasingly interrupted.

“I just wanted to say that I’m so proud of you and I know your mam is too. Cheers.”

After lunch, they spent a bit more time in the grounds taking pictures and enjoying the day. Richard and Ben lagged behind a bit so the couple could have a bit of alone time.

They wandered hand in hand further around the manicured lawns and Viv took photos of the castle, the grounds and of course selfies.

“I’d give anything for my mum to be here today,” Beth said quietly and Viv gently squeezed her hand.

They stopped walking when they noticed the little Robin had reappeared and was hopping along the low wall beside them, occasionally looking up at them and chirping.

Richard and Ben caught up to the couple and the Robin seemed to lift its wing as if it were waving before it flew away into a nearby tree.

“That was your mum telling you she’s here with you and she’s proud of you - we all are,” Viv said and Beth nodded.

The family stayed quiet for a moment, just taking in the magnitude of what the day meant before the chauffeur arrived to take them home.

Meanwhile the Robin watched them from the tree right up until they left the grounds before it flew away into the distance and out of sight.

Chapter Text

“I can’t see, Leah Cathrine.” Beth tried to move the hand covering her eyes.

“That’s the whole point, Bethany Jane, so stop complaining and keep walking.” Leah nudged her shoulder to make her move in the direction of the gym.

Beth’s birthday was coming up and Leah had told her there was a surprise waiting for her in the gym.

Of course that had only heightened Beth’s curiosity and she flew questions to Leah at a hundred miles an hour.

She had even tried to get information from Viv, Kim and Laura but they had also been left in the dark about the surprise.

Leah had managed to keep tight lipped and instead covered Beth’s eyes to keep her from peeking.

“Okay and open…” Leah moved her hands away from Beth’s eyes.

“You got me a karaoke machine?!” Beth gasped. “Thanks, I love it,” Beth said and hugged her friend.

“Why would you do that Leah? I thought we were friends. Now we’ll never have peace again,” Viv groaned.

“Oh shush your whinging, you.” Beth cut her eyes to her girlfriend and gave her a playful smirk. “We should do a duet.”

“Absolutely not.”

“You’ll sing with me, won’t you kitty kat?” Beth turned her attention to Kim.

“If it will make you leave me alone,” Kim joked.

“Yay! Thanks Leah, I mean it.”

“Well I thought we could all do with a bit of cheering up and what better way to do that than laugh at you.”

“Oh wow, thanks.”

“You know I’m kidding.” Leah pulled Beth in for a hug and kissed her head.

“Oh, I nearly forgot, you guys are all invited to ours for dinner tonight,” Beth said.

“Are you cooking?” Laura asked worriedly.

“What’s wrong with my cooking? I’m a decent chef, I’ll have you know!”

“I’m cooking,” Viv clarified. “I was thinking about trying a new recipe.”

“What is it?” Leah asked.

“I want to make a pork noodle stir fry.”

“What’s in it?”

“Minced pork, noodles,” Viv teased and Leah made a face at her. “Garlic, ginger, soy sauce…”

“That sounds…spicy,” Leah said with a hint of concern.

“But I’ll do some potato smiles and chicken dippers for you,” Viv said and smiled when Leah hugged her.

“Thanks mate.”

“Oh! You should bring the karaoke machine!” Beth said excitedly.

“No,” Viv protested.

“Tell me why,” Beth said with a mischievous twinkle in her eye and Viv frowned.

“Because I don’t want it in the house.”

“Tell me why!” Beth repeated, this time in a terrible off key singing voice. “Am I your fire? Your one desire?”

“Make it stop. Please tell me you still have the receipt?” Viv asked Leah in a desperate tone.

“But I want it that way!”

****

Viv was busy in the kitchen gathering the ingredients for dinner while Beth set the table.

“Mmm, loving the nerdy look,” Beth said and Viv adjusted her glasses as a tiny blush dusted her cheeks. She finished setting the table and came to stand with Viv. She wrapped her arms around her taller girlfriends waist and hugged her from behind. “Can I help?”

Viv was about to say no; the recipe was pretty quick and simple and then an idea popped into her head.

“Yes. You can do it.”

“All of it?”

“Yes.”

“Uh, I said help, not do. You’re better at this than I am.”

“Which is why you’re going to do it and get some practice. Unless you want to eat beans on toast?”

“What’s wrong with beans on toast?”

“Everything. So come on; start chopping.” Viv stepped out of Beth’s arms and stood behind her instead.

“I love it when you get bossy,” Beth teased and Viv laughed before she put the knife in Beth’s hand and placed her own hand on top. “What’re you doing?”

“Giving you some guidance.”

“You’ve done this before and don’t think I don’t know what you’re doing - you’re just trying to feel me up.”

“I have no idea what you’re talking about,” Viv said innocently and Beth snorted when she pressed tighter against her and kissed the side of her neck. “Slice these and then chop those.”

“Yes Miss Miedema.” Beth finished that and read the recipe. “Where’s the garlic and chilli?”

Viv reached up to the cupboard and put the ready prepared jars on the counter.

“What happened to ‘everything has to be fresh’ ?”

“I don’t want that stuff on my hands, do you?” Viv gave her a pointed look. Beth took a moment to think about what Viv meant before she nodded in agreement.

“Ohhh, I see. Absolutely not.”

The couple worked together to prepare and cook the food. They left the pots to simmer on the hob and had just settled down on the sofa when there was a knock on the door.

Viv untangled herself from her girlfriend so Beth could get up to answer it.

“Hi, come in, come in,” Beth said and hugged Kim and Lia.

“Have you got room for one more?” Lia asked, having not been present during the earlier invitations.

“Of course! How’re you doing?” Beth gently held her by the shoulders.

“Eh, you know. I’ve been better,” Lia answered with a tiny smile. Beth nodded before hugging her again, this time more tightly.

“Do you want a drink?” Viv asked. Kim and Lia made their choices and Viv handed them their drinks.

A few minutes later a second knock on the door announced Leah and Laura’s arrival and Beth opened the door to let them in.

“You brought it!” Beth cheered when she saw the karaoke machine in Leah’s hand.

“No, I do not want that thing in my house!” Viv said but the girls knew she was kidding….kind of.

****

The conversations flowed throughout dinner and various topics were talked about and some, of course, were avoided altogether.

The food was a hit and everyone’s plates were empty, including Leah’s special meal of chicken dippers and potato smiley faces.

“Compliments to the chef,” Kim said and raised her glass.

Viv brushed off the praise and slung a loose arm over the back of Beth’s chair.

“I’d love the recipe,” Kim said and Viv nodded.

Everyone was full so the offer of dessert was declined and Viv shooed away any help of clearing up. Lia insisted in helping Viv load the dishwasher while Beth eagerly set up the karaoke machine.

“How are you doing? I didn’t want to ask with the others about.”

“Honestly? Still a bit shit but it helps being around friends, so thank you.”

“Anything you need, anytime, you just ask,  okay? We’re here for you,” Viv said and Lia nodded and smiled her thanks.

“Come on you two, I’ve got the perfect song for us to all sing together,” Beth said and Viv playfully rolled her eyes.

“If it’s that stupid backstreet boys song….”

“It’s not,” Beth laughed.

The opening bars of I'll Be There For You, the Friends theme tune, began to play and Beth handed out the microphones.

Lia wasn’t up to joining in so she Viv sat out the singing and instead they filmed the performance on their phones.

****

The dinner party hadn’t been a late one as the girls all had training the next day.

Viv had given Kim the recipe as promised and as they all shared hugs goodbye, Beth and Viv reminded Lia that they were always available if she needed to talk or just hang out.

Lia was grateful for the support and promised to reach out if she needed anything.

“You know what, I’m so ready for an early night.” Beth collapsed onto the sofa and Viv joined her seconds afterwards.

“Me too. But before that I’m probably going to have to apologise to the neighbours.”

“What for?”

“Your singing.”

“Why do you keep slagging off my singing? I have a beautiful voice.”

“Sure. If you like the sound of screeching cats.”

“You’re not very nice to me, Vivianne.” Beth pretended to pout and Viv kissed it away.

“I’m sorry. Is that better?”

“You’ll have to try harder. You can start making it up to me by running me a bubble bath.”

Viv did as Beth asked and once they had shared a long, relaxing soak in the tub, for the next few hours Viv continued to make it up to Beth by showing her just how truly sorry she really was.

Chapter Text

“Look at her little nose.”

“Yeah.”

“And her tiny little lips. And her little fingers and little toes. And her ears! She’s perfect Beth, and so tiny.”

“She didn’t feel tiny, trust me. You’re doing this next time.”

“Next time?”

“A figure of speech. Let’s see how we manage with this one first, yeah?”

Viv and Beth were laying on their bed with Ammalie in between them. Their tiny baby was just a few weeks old and they were both absolutely besotted with her.

They already knew they made an excellent team, having played professional football together for so many years but parenting was a whole new experience. They took their roles as parents seriously and were naturals at it.

Viv had assigned herself the job of the night time feeds and was up without hesitation the minute they heard Ammalie cry over the monitor.

That was something that had surprised Beth, not because she thought Viv would be a backseat parent, of course she didn’t, but because of how much Viv liked to sleep.

Viv had explained that she had already resigned herself to not sleeping and her mother had given her the advice to ‘sleep when the baby does’ and of course Viv didn’t need any invitation to take an afternoon nap.

They had an endless list of babysitters. Viv’s parents and brother were all keen to visit and help out when they could as well as Beth’s dad and brother. Their friends and former teammates had also made themselves available and the couple were grateful for the extra support.

The weeks and months flew by so quickly and before long Ammalie was almost a year old. She was the double of Beth, with her light hair, bright blue eyes and cheeky smile.

As well as physical similarities, Ammalie shared some of her mother’s personality traits too. She was loud and loved attention. She was also funny in her own way, she was cheeky and wasn’t too fond of being told what to do.

One of the things guaranteed to make Ammalie laugh was when Viv would pick her up and gently throw her in the air and catch her and then follow it up with kisses on her neck. Or when she would hold Ammalie up like superman and ‘fly’ her around the room.

Beth was obsessed with the adorable sounds their baby made and had an enormous amount of videos on her phone which she showed to everyone at every available opportunity.

One of Ammalie’s favourite activities was bouncing so Viv and Beth installed a bouncer in the doorway of their living room so she could jump up and down as much as she wanted, and would often tire herself out and fall asleep in the safety harness.

Ammalie had also hit another milestone and was able to hold onto something and stand up on her own, shuffling as she unsteadily stepped from one end of the sofa to the other which prompted Viv and Beth to baby proof all over the house as Ammalie was into everything .

The first time she stood up on her own, Viv and Beth had clapped and cheered as they recorded it on their phones and as Ammalie loved being the centre of attention, she lapped up the applause and joined in the celebration.

They were anticipating her first steps any day now and Viv had come up with a good idea of how to commemorate it.

“What’s that?” Beth asked her wife when she stepped through the door carrying a large canvas. Viv had said she needed to go shopping for supplies but hadn’t elaborated.

“It’s for Ammalie. I thought we could put some paint, non toxic of course, on the bottom of her feet and get her to walk across the canvas.”

“Have I ever told you I love you and your big, beautiful brain?” Beth asked and Viv shrugged.

“Once or twice.” Viv pushed her glasses further up her nose. It astounded Beth that they had been together for so long yet Viv still got embarrassed by compliments.

It didn’t happen on the first time they put the canvas down, or the second or third time. In fact it was almost a week later when Ammalie took her first steps. But being a stubborn little thing (another trait she inherited from Beth) she refused to walk across the canvas. It took some prompting (and a little bribing) from Viv to get her to do it and she eventually did it.

****

Aged six, Ammalie became a big sister when her brother Liam was born, with Viv taking the reins this time.

If Ammalie was the double of Beth then Liam was the double of Viv. He was an easy going baby and only really fussed and cried when he was hungry or tired.

Ammalie immediately went into big sister mode and was enamoured with her baby brother. She wanted to be involved in everything to do with him from feeding him, bathing him, dressing him and even changing his nappy.

As the years went on, Ammalie was still protective of her little brother and despite the usual sibling drama and spats, they were the best of friends even though their personalities were vastly different.

Where Ammalie was loud and hyper, Liam was quiet and subdued. Ammalie loved the spotlight whereas Liam was happy to blend into the background and play with his toys by himself.

Despite their young age, something they both possessed already was a sharp wit and a strong sense of humour which were traits they got from both parents.

Viv and Beth were not pushy parents by any means but when Ammalie had shown an interest in sports at an early age, and football in particular, they were eager to sign her up to a local team.

They had already built a mini football pitch in their garden and Ammalie would practice for hours on end with her parents helping her hone her skills.

By the time she was seven, she was already the star player in her team and was not only the top scorer but she also had the most assists - it was clear that she had the talent to step up to the next level.

Both Viv and Beth had experienced being a big fish in a little pond and were aware of the pressure it could bring, so they were reluctant to push their daughter before she was ready and encouraged her to go at her own pace and if she said that she wasn’t enjoying it anymore, then they wouldn’t force her to continue.

However it was soon abundantly clear that she was too good for her local team and so when she turned nine, Viv and Beth enrolled their daughter in Arsenal’s academy.

****

There were many traditions in the Meadema household and one of them was going out for pizza after Ammalie had finished her Friday match and this evening was no different.

Arsenal U11’s had played against Chelsea U11’s at Meadow Park and had won 4-1, with Ammalie scoring a hat trick and assisting the other goal.

Viv and Beth were chatting with the coach about Ammalie’s progress and her coach was discussing whether she might be ready to become the new captain next season.

“We’d like to talk to her first before you ask her,” Viv said and Beth nodded in agreement.

“Of course, there’s no rush. But I have to say that in all my years of coaching, I have never seen such a talented kid,” the coach said and excused himself when he was called over by another staff member.

“I think she’ll say no,” Viv said. “I hated having that much responsibility at that age.”

“Well she does like to boss people around.”

“Hmm I wonder where she gets that from?” Viv teased and hoisted Liam up onto her shoulders. “Hold tight,” she instructed and Liam clasped his hands under his mothers chin.

“That’s right, use him as a shield. I’ll just get you later.”

Ammalie emerged from the changing room dressed in clean clothes and joined her parents and brother and they made the short drive to the restaurant.

The family sat down in a booth and Liam immediately got to work on his colouring sheet. He sat up on his knees so he could see the picture better and explained the cartoon characters to his mum.

“You’re doing a great job,” Beth said and smoothed down his fluffy blonde hair. “Your teacher told me that she put your drawing on the wall because it was so beautiful. Do you think you could draw something for our wall at home?”

“Yep,” Liam said with a proud nod.

The waitress came to take their order and Ammalie insisted on ordering her own food because she was ‘a big girl now’. Viv and Beth shared an amused look and let their daughter do as she asked.

Liam was already a creature of habit at three years old and always wanted the same meal - a margherita pizza with a strawberry milkshake, something that made Beth quip that his choice was ‘nice and plain, just like his mother.’

“We should have a double celebration,” Viv said, ignoring Beth’s comment. “For Ammalie’s win and Liam’s drawing. They clearly get their talent from me,” Viv teased and Beth narrowed her eyes in response.

Their food arrived shortly after and they all ate with gusto. Beth had to wipe Liams face and chin several times as the three year olds motor skills lacked finesse and he kept missing his mouth.

“Oh no,” Ammalie suddenly gasped and slid down her seat.

“What’s the matter?” Beth asked and looked at Viv in confusion.

“Don’t look! That girl over there is in my team.”

“Do you want to say hi?”

“No. She’s mean.”

“Is she mean to you?” Viv asked and Ammalie shrugged.

“Sometimes. She said I’m only in the team because you’re my parents.”

Beth and Viv shared a look - they’d both been expecting comments like that but they were surprised to hear it had come from a teammate rather than a parent.

“Who scored a hat trick and got an assist today?” Beth asked. “And who has been named as the player of the match the most this season? And who has…”

“Okay, I get it,” Ammalie laughed.

“My point is, you did it all by yourself through hard work. I mean, sure you got all your talent from me,” Beth said and Viv cleared her throat. “And your mum too, I suppose, even if she was an average player,” she teased and Viv rolled her eyes. “You know what you should do if she says anything mean again?”

“Kick her?”

“What? No! Who’ve you been speaking to, auntie Katie?”

“You should say to her; we don’t have to be friends off the pitch but we need to get along on the pitch,” Viv said and Ammalie nodded.

“ Team work makes the dream work ,” Beth said and Viv screwed her nose up. “What?”

“Never say that again, please. Did you know your mum didn’t like me when we first met?”

“Not this again!” Beth rolled her eyes and Viv laughed as she began to tell their children the story of the first meeting between her and Beth.

Chapter Text

“Vivi?”

“Hmm?”

“Remember when you said we could adopt a puppy?”

Viv shifted her head from Beth’s lap to look at her.

“I don’t remember agreeing to it, I said I’d think about it.”

“Anyway,” Beth interrupted. “Look at this gorgeous baby.” Beth handed her phone to her girlfriend. “She’s perfect, right?”

Viv smiled at the video of the tiny brown puppy. Her coordination had not yet been perfected and she was clumsily bouncing around as she tried to run.

“So?” Beth prompted and ran her fingers through the soft head of hair lying on her lap when Viv didn’t answer. “Vivi?”

“I love her already,” Viv spoke softly and smiled through watery eyes.

“Good because I’ve already emailed the breeder.”

“And how did you know I would agree?” Viv sat up and looked at her girlfriend.

“Because, Vivianne Miedema, you cannot say no to me.”

“Oh I can.”

“You can’t - I’m irresistible.”

“Is that what you think?”

“No, it’s what I know .” Beth lowered her voice and threaded her hand through Viv’s hair as she leaned forward. She saw Viv’s gaze drop to her lips and she licked them for added effect. “You know something else?”

“What?” Viv subconsciously moved closer in anticipation. Beth leaned in to whisper something in her ear and Viv immediately blushed bright red. “Well when you put it like that ,” she said and gently pushed Beth backwards as she kissed her against the soft cushions of the sofa.

****

Beth and Viv had filled their home with all the essentials in preparation for the impending arrival of their new puppy.

They had already come up with a list of dog names and had decided on the name Milo if they adopted a boy and Myle for a girl.

Viv cradled the tiny puppy in her arms as Beth unlocked the door.

“Welcome home baby girl,” Beth cooed and gently stroked Myle’s soft fur. The puppy responded by licking her finger and Beth smiled at Viv. “Awww!”

Myle began to wriggle in Viv’s arms so she set her down on the floor. The puppy began to whimper and before they could react, Myle peed on the floor before scampering away to explore her new home.

“Who’s gonna clean that up?” Viv asked.

“Rock, paper, scissors?”

Beth lost the game after the third round and gathered the cleaning products. As Beth quickly cleaned up the mess, an idea came to Viv.

“Hey, you know what we should do?”

“What?”

“We should make a friendly bet; whoever loses out of us or England will have to clean up after Myle.”

Beth considered the suggestion as she finished washing and drying her hands.

“I’m in. Commiserations in your defeat by the way,” Beth said and sealed the deal with a kiss.

“We’ll see.”

“Yes we will,” Beth agreed. “Myle, come here baby girl,” Beth called the puppy and the couple cooed as the puppy came scampering toward them. Beth picked Myle up and kissed her nose before cuddling her “Who’s a baby, who’s a pretty baby girl?” She spoke in a baby voice and Myle licked her face.

“Why don’t we send a picture to the group chat?” Viv suggested and Beth nodded. Viv took a selfie of the three of them and typed out a message.

Viv: hey we’ve got something to tell you guys…..meet Myle Meadema. 🐶 

Beth and Viv waited for the inevitable influx of replies and they weren’t disappointed.

Jen: Congratulations, I’m buzzing for you guys!

Leah: she needs some Arsenal gear.

Vic: I want to babysit!

Katie: Just get married already!

Steph: OMG I’M COMING OVER IMMEDIATELY!!!!!

Before long their house was filled with their friends and teammates.

“Where is the baby?” Vic asked and scanned the room for a Myle sighting.

“What, you mean didn’t come to see us?” Viv teased.

Just then, Beth entered the room with Myle in her arms. The little puppy was dressed in a red and white roll neck jumper and was busy gnawing on a toy.

The girls were immediately taken with Myle (Beth even thought she saw Leah with tears in her eyes) and all of them wanted to play and have cuddles and selfies with her, and of course Myle lapped up the attention.

“Oi pavlova, take her out of your coat!” Beth laughed.

“But she fits!” Vic protested and Viv took the puppy from her hands. “No, I’m not finished!”

“You can have cuddles with her later. She needs to go outside first,” Viv said and Vic understood what she meant. “Beth, can you take Myle outside, I think she needs to pee - maybe more.”

“Why can’t you do it? You’re her mum as well.”

“Because you need to get used to it.” Viv noticed some of the girls looking at her in confusion and so she explained their bet.

“Make the most of it Vivianne because you’re going down….and you’re gonna lose against us!” Beth teased and the rest of the girls laughed at the easy banter between the couple.

****

The important must win nations league game between England and the Netherlands finally ended in a 3-2 win for England.

England had done well to come back from 0-2 down and although they were pleased with the result they couldn’t allow themselves to celebrate too much because they needed to score more goals to give them a better chance of qualifying.

The teams made their way around the pitch to hug and either congratulate or commiserate teammates and opponents alike.

Viv sought out Beth and pulled her in for a tight embrace.

“I’m so proud of you lieverd, I love you,” Viv whispered softly into Beth’s ear and hugged her even tighter as she pressed her face into Beth’s neck and stayed there.

“Ik hou van jou,” Beth rubbed her hands over Viv’s back and gently let go. “Face time later?” She whispered and Viv nodded before she wandered off to hug Lotte while Beth went to swap shirts with Victoria.

****

Later that night, Beth was browsing online when a message came through from Viv.

Viv: are you ready to face time? ❤️

Beth: just a sec. I’ve got something to show you. Sending you a pic now….❤️

Beth finished what she was doing and sent another message to Viv. Less than a minute later Viv started the face time call and Beth beamed as Viv’s face filled the screen.

“Did you like the photo I sent you?” Beth asked cheekily.

“Not really. I was hoping for something sexier than a pooper scooper,” Viv said with a hint of disappointment while Beth laughed out loud. “You know we didn’t really discuss the terms and conditions of the bet. Although England won, I didn’t play so it doesn’t count.”

“Nice try Vivianne but a deal’s a deal and you still lost the bet.” Beth saw Viv was about to protest and so she quickly interrupted. “But if you play your cards right then maybe there will be something sexier waiting for you when you get home.”

That got Viv to rethink her complaining and she decided to accept defeat.

“Okay so how do you use the pooper scooper?”

Chapter Text

The Christmas break had finally begun and Beth and Viv and their team mates were all desperate to put the result against Tottenham behind them and spend time resting and recuperating with their family and friends.

The couple were heading to Whitby to stay with Beth’s dad, Beth’s brother and his girlfriend.

“Have you got everything?” Beth asked as she got into the drivers seat.

“Yes,” Viv said and climbed into the passenger seat. “Have you locked the door?”

“I thought you did?”

“No, you said you were going to.”

“I didn’t because you said you would.”

“Hold Myle, I’m going to check.” Viv rolled her eyes and unbuckled her seatbelt.

“Your other mummy is so silly, isn’t she?” Beth spoke to the puppy and rubbed behind her ears. “Good job I’ve got all the brains, isn’t it?”

“You wish,” Viv said as she got into the car.

“Was it locked?”

“It might have been,” Viv said and held her hands out for Myle. “Just be quiet and drive,” Viv said and tried not to laugh at Beth’s smug face.

“You should probably put Myle in her crate before we go.”

“No! Why?” Viv lifted the puppy up so she could kiss her.

“Because she might go to the toilet inside your coat and then you’ll have to sit in shit for hours. And it’s bad enough when your feet stink. ”

“Sorry baby, mummy is right,” Viv said. “But not about the smelly feet - yours are much worse.” She made a face before she unzipped her coat and got out of the car. She carefully placed the puppy in her crate and Myle immediately began to whine. “Oh no, she’s crying!”

“Yeah cos she knows you’re a soft touch!” Beth laughed. “She’ll be fine; she’ll probably just fall asleep as soon as we go, which was almost ten minutes ago by the way.”

Viv made sure Myle was safely secured in her crate before she got back into the passenger seat and Beth started the journey to Whitby.

Viv was distracted for the whole journey and kept sneaking glances at Myle, who, as Beth had said, had slept for almost the entire journey.

It was the early afternoon when they pulled up outside of Beth’s dad’s house and Beth and Viv were eager to get out and stretch their aching legs but before they could, Viv gently touched Beth’s arm to stop her - she could sense Beth’s change of mood.

“Are you okay, lieverd?”

“Yeah, I just…” Beth paused and sighed before she looked at Viv with sad eyes. “Mum would always be waiting for me at the door and I just…forgot she’s not there. That sounds stupid doesn’t it?”

“No it doesn’t.” Viv squeezed her hand. “You’re so brave and if you need to cry then cry. I’ll be here for you for whatever you need. You know that.”

“I do.” Beth nodded and Viv brought their entwined hands to her lips. “Thank you for being here. I know I’m a right pain in the arse.” Beth moved to wipe her tears but Viv beat her to it.

“You are. But not about this.” Viv squeezed her hand once again before she gently kissed her cheek. “Are you ready?”

“Yeah.” Beth nodded. “Ik hou van jou.”

“Ik hou van jou,” Viv replied and softly kissed her lips.

****

After getting settled with putting the presents under the Christmas tree and their suitcases in the spare room, Beth and Viv made plans to meet up with Beth’s friends for dinner.

Dinner with Beth’s friends was always a fun time and Beth and Viv felt like their sides were aching from all the laughter.

The group hadn’t meant for it to be a late night but dinner had turned into drinks and it was gone 1 am before they even realised. They split up into a couple of taxis and called it a night

Beth and Viv quietly crept through the front door, mindful of Beth’s dad who might have already gone to bed.

Beth giggled when Viv tripped over her own feet and bumped into Beth’s back.

“Shhh!” Viv covered Beth’s mouth with her hand and Beth backed Viv up against the wall.

“You shush,” Beth said and pulled Viv into a deep, passionate kiss. Hands began to move to familiar territory but before it could go any further a light was switched on and Beth’s dad appeared in the living room doorway and they instantly pulled away.

“Good night?” Richard asked and Beth nodded while Viv stood as still as a statue with both arms by her side. “I’ll see you in the morning girls. Don’t forget to drink lots of water.”

Beth saluted to her dad’s advice and after filling up two pint glasses of water, Beth and Viv headed upstairs.

They quickly brushed their teeth and changed into their pyjamas.

“That was embarrassing.”

“What?”

“Getting caught by your dad.”

“He didn’t catch us doing anything! Although your hands were definitely going somewhere,” Beth laughed. “Do you really think he doesn’t know we have sex?”

“ Beth !” Viv gasped and pushed Beth’s shoulder.

“It’s true though!” Beth laughed again.

“Stop it! I’m so embarrassed.” Viv blushed and tried to hide her face.

“Aw, I love you my little awkward potato,” Beth cooed and pulled Viv close so they could cuddle. “Night Vivi.”

“Night lieverd.”

Viv snuggled in closer and closed her eyes before she fell into a deep, restful sleep.

****

The next morning, Beth woke up to the sound of Myle whining and scratching the bed sheets to try and get up on the bed. Beth leaned down to the side of the bed and scooped Myle up.

She quickly took the puppy outside so she could do her business and carried her back up to her room and when she returned, she wasn’t at all surprised to see Viv was still out for the count.

They usually had a no puppy on the bed rule but Beth was still sleepy and Myle was soft and warm so she allowed it just this once.

Viv stirred when Myle licked her face and she moved a hand up to stop the onslaught.

“Okay, okay, I’m awake. What time is it?”

“Just gone 7. We don’t have to get up yet.” Beth stretched her arms over her head and moved closer for a cuddle. “Merry Christmas.”

“Merry Christmas.”

“Look up.”

“At what?”

“The ceiling.”

Viv did and laughed when she saw the mistletoe hanging above the bed.

“When did you put that up?”

“Before we went to the pub yesterday,” Beth said and tapped her lips. “Come on, it’s bad luck if you don’t follow tradition.”

“You’re right,” Viv agreed and leaned forward but at the last moment she switched directions and kissed Myle instead.

“Oi, excuse me!” Beth whined and Viv laughed before she kissed her girlfriend.

“Sorry.”

“You’re not but I’ll let you off since it’s Christmas and all.”

They snuggled for a few more minutes before their stomachs simultaneously rumbled and they giggled.

“Let’s get some breakfast,” Beth suggested and Viv agreed.

****

After breakfast, Beth, Viv and Richard were joined by Beth’s brother and his girlfriend for their traditional Christmas walk.

Rona and Myle had been kitted out in Christmas attire and were busy chasing each other around the beach.

Beth’s cousin Emily and her son Harley joined them soon after and they watched as Viv played with the little boy.

Beth frowned self consciously when she noticed her cousin kept sneaking glances at her.

“Have I got something on my face or something?”

“No, I was hoping you might have something on your hand. Or finger , to be more specific.”

“What, this one?” Beth jokingly held up her middle finger.

“Oh, very funny.” Emily laughed and slapped her hand away.

“Did Viv say something to you then?” Beth asked and felt her heart skip as she waited for the answer.

“No no, nothing like that. I just thought, you know, that’s where the two of you are headed.”

“You said that about the last one, remember?” Beth pointed out.

“I did but I’m glad I was wrong about that. She wasn’t right for you, it’s obvious now. This time it’s different, I can tell.”

“Me too.”

“So…have you had the talk?”

“We’ve had it,” Beth confirmed.

“Okay, and? Come on Beth, now isn’t the time to keep quiet!” Emily laughed.

“It’s something that we both want - marriage and kids, but not yet. Myle’s our baby - we’ve got matching pyjamas and everything. And anyway, Viv has to ask because I’m not doing it.”

“Maybe that’s what she’s talking to your dad about, maybe she’s asking him for permission?”

Beth looked over and sure enough Viv was in deep conversation with her dad.

“Nah they’re probably talking about philosophy or something else equally brainy,” Beth joked and continued to watch her girlfriend.

She watched as Viv walked and talked with her dad, she watched as she played with Harley and she watched as she scooped Myle up and zipped her snuggly into her coat.

Viv treated Myle as if she was their baby and Beth knew that if they were to have children in the future then Viv would be just as doting and although that was something that would happen quite far in the future, Beth was very much looking forward to it and she knew Viv was too.

Chapter Text

Viv was weird.

No, correction; Viv was acting weird.

For the last few days Viv had been running last minute errands, taking hushed phone calls (quite often speaking in Dutch or German) and was generally acting quite out of character.

Beth had asked if something was the matter and Viv had assured her that everything was fine.

Beth trusted Viv wholeheartedly so she didn’t doubt it was the truth but Viv seemed like she was up to something and Beth was curious.

Beth was travelling to Manchester for a couple of days as part of her “fun football” contract and so Viv had cooked them a special dinner the night before.

No longer had they finished their meal, Viv’s phone started to ring.

“It’s Lotte. I’ll be back in a minute.” Viv said and walked to the bedroom to take the call.

Beth cleared the table and loaded the dishwasher just as Viv came back.

“Everything okay?” Beth asked as casually as possible.

“Yep.” Was all Viv offered and reached for Beth’s hand. “Leave that. Let’s go and cuddle on the couch for a bit.”

Beth willingly followed her girlfriend to the couch and they immediately got comfortable. Myle joined them and curled up in between their bodies.

“I’m gonna miss you while you’re gone,” Viv said and leaned in for a kiss.

“You were invited,” Beth reminded her.

“I know but I’ve got stuff to do. That’s what Lotte’s phone call was about.”

“Is she okay?”

“She’s fine.”

Beth wanted to ask for more details but Viv had started kissing her neck in a way that made all thoughts leave her brain and left her into a melting puddle of goo.

Maybe that was Viv’s plan or maybe Beth should just leave it and enjoy the sensation of Viv’s touch?

She opted for the latter option and closed her eyes as Viv worked her magic.

****

“It’s not too late to come with me you know,” Beth said as she loaded up the boot of her car with her suitcase.

“I know but I’ve got some stuff to do,” Viv replied and Beth raised her eyebrows. “And I want some peace and quiet for a day or two,” she teased and Beth laughed and pushed her shoulder.

“Fine, suit yourself,” Beth said and picked up Myle. “Bye baby, be a good girl for your mum. Mummy loves you, give us a kiss,” Beth said and Myle licked Beth’s face. “Thank you.” She wiped away the evidence of the sloppy kisses before she pulled Viv closer for a kiss. “I’ll call you when I get there.”

“Okay. Ik hou van jou.”

“Ik hou van jou,” Beth replied and got into her car.

Viv waited until she was out of sight before she pulled out her phone and found the number she wanted.

“Hey it’s me. Yeah she’s gone. I just need to drop Myle off at Teyah’s so I’ll meet you there in about ten minutes.”

****

Viv pulled up to the agreed place and parked her car.

“Have you been waiting long?” Viv asked and embraced the brunette with a warm hug.

“No, I just got here myself. Are you okay?” Lotte asked.

“I hate lying to Beth. She knows that something’s up,” Viv said with a sigh.

“You’re not lying about anything bad though.”

“I know but it still seems odd.” Viv frowned and saw another car approaching. “Looks like the others are here.”

“Sorry we’re late, blame those two,” Steph apologised and pointed behind her at Lia and Leah. “Oh I’m so excited!” Steph squealed and hugged Viv, who laughed at the giddiness.

“Are you ready?” Leah asked.

“No!” Viv laughed. “As ready as I’ll ever be,” she said and opened the door.

They walked up to the desk and Viv gave her name. A few moments later the assistant returned with the item and handed it to Viv.

“I asked you all here because I know you’ll give me your honest opinions, so….” Viv opened the box and all the girls gasped in unison. “I haven’t bought it yet. Do you think she’ll like it?” Viv asked nervously and Leah took the box for a closer look.

The ring was simple, elegant and definitely to Beth’s taste.

“If she doesn’t then I’ll marry you with a ring like that!” Leah laughed and passed the box back to Viv. “She’ll love it mate.”

“It’s beautiful,” Lotte said.

“When are you going to ask her?” Lia enquired.

“I was thinking about when she gets back from Manchester but I don’t know. My belly is in knots to be fair.” Viv laughed nervously.

“You don’t have to worry about it. She’ll say yes,” Steph reassured her and Viv nodded albeit a little unconvinced.

“Have you thought about what you’re going to say?” Leah asked.

“I was going to put Taylor Swift on, paper rings to be specific, tell her how special she is to me and then ask.”

“That’s really cute,” Steph said while holding back tears. “Now hurry up and buy the ring before I start crying!”

****

Viv took a few deep breaths and paper rings began to play. She looked at herself in the bedroom mirror and composed herself. Myle was sitting on the bed and staring at her in curiosity.

“Beth, we’ve been together for a while now and we’ve not managed to kill each other yet which is a bonus!” Viv laughed before she screwed her nose up. “No I can’t say that.” She shook her head. “Beth, you get on my nerves and I know I get on yours too but somehow we work together and… no. She’ll say no if I start with that.” Viv shook her head again and sighed. “Beth, we’ve been through some really tough times and some really good times and we’ve come through them stronger every time. I never imagined we would get together when we first met all those years ago but we make so much sense; you get me and I get you. We have our ups and downs but we’re solid, our love is unbreakable and I want us to be forever.” Viv took a breath and looked at Myle expectedly. “This is where you come in with a rose in your mouth, you drop it on the floor while I drop to one knee and….”

“What are you doing?”

“Fuck!” Viv almost jumped out of her skin and the ring clattered to the floor as she spun around. “What are you doing here?! I thought you were coming back tomorrow?”

“The event finished earlier than expected so I thought I’d surprise you,” Beth said.

“Well you definitely did!” Viv held a hand to her chest and tried to calm her breathing. “How much did you hear?” She narrowed her eyes at Beth.

“All of it.” Beth swallowed the lump in her throat.

“You’re not going to make me say it all again, are you?”

“No but only because I need to pee,” Beth teased cheekily. “Just ask me the question.”

“Okay.” Viv took several deep breaths and dropped to one knee. “Bethany Jane Mead?”

“Yes Anna Margaretha Marina Astrid Miedema?” Beth grinned while Viv grimaced at the sound of her full name.

“Will you marry me?”

“Yes,” Beth answered without hesitation and Viv scooped her up into her arms for a deep kiss. She put her down and Beth held out her left hand. “Where’s the ring?”

Viv frowned and checked her pockets.

“I had it a second ago,” she said and remembered she had dropped it. She crouched down onto her belly to look under the bed, the only place where it could have gone. “Oh no.” Viv got to her feet and ran both hands over her face before she looked at Myle.

“What?”

“I think Myle has swallowed it.”

Chapter Text

“Vivianne Meadema, get in here right now !”

Viv entered the kitchen and was greeted by the sight of her wife standing with her hands on her hips and a scowl on her face.

“Did you really think you could get away with it?”

“Get away with what?”

“ This !” Beth slammed the box of tea on the kitchen counter. “What the fuck are these?”

“Beth, watch your language, the baby can hear you!”

“The baby doesn’t understand words yet.”

“Oh yes they do, I looked it up.”

“Stop changing the subject!”

“Okay, fine. What’s the problem?”

“Oh, don’t even try and be cute with me Vivianne, you know exactly what you’ve done!” Beth huffed and opened up the box. “The teabags are round !”

“So?”

“So…. Yorkshire teabags are square! These are not Yorkshire teabags! Did you really think I wouldn’t notice you put different tea bags in the Yorkshire tea box?!”

“They’re also decaf. Remember what the doctor said about caffeine?”

“Oh, do you want a shovel for the very deep hole you’re digging?”

“Look, they didn’t have any Yorkshire tea so I had to get the next best thing.”

“The next best thing would be dishwater.”

“Beth, come on.”

“I’m sorry,” Beth sighed. “I’m just really tired and huge and…”

“And you’re beautiful,” Viv cut her off and rubbed her wife’s belly. “Both of you are beautiful. It won’t be long now.”

“It’s long enough,” Beth grumbled and Viv placated her by gently massaging her shoulders.

“Do you want me to go to the shops and get you some Yorkshire tea?”

“No. I want you to keep doing this.” Beth sighed contently and just like that the argument was over as quickly as it had started.

“Come on. Why don’t you get comfortable on the couch and I’ll rub the moisturiser on your belly?”

Viv knew her wife was self conscious about her stretch marks and the moisturiser seemed to help. Plus Viv got to run her hands over Beth’s body so it was a win-win situation for both of them.

Beth settled down among the soft cushions. She closed her eyes and smiled as Viv got to work. But her eyes quickly flew open when the baby delivered a swift kick to her ribs.

“Wow,” Viv said and placed both hands on Beth’s tummy. “Someone’s awake.”

“Yeah she’s been doing it all day. Sometimes she likes to kick me at night, especially when I’m trying to sleep,” Beth paused before she raised her eyebrow and looked at Viv. “She gets that from you.”

****

As the months passed and Ammalie grew, more of her personality began to develop. Beth and Viv found out early on that she was going to be a chatterbox, just like Beth, and had begun to babble when she was just a few months old and by the time she was almost two, she was talking nonstop, just like Beth.

She was also extremely stubborn and if she didn’t want to do something, then she wouldn’t do it, just like Viv.

Like today for instance.

The Meadema family were on their way to do a food shop and Ammalie had had a tantrum over being put in her pushchair. Viv had relented and compromised by fixing her reins on instead.

“I’m going to get some petrol so I’ll meet you inside,” Viv said as she dropped her wife and daughter off. Ammalie pulled on her reins as they walked to the trolley park.

“Okay, in you get,” Beth said and lifted the toddler, who wildly kicked her feet. “What are you doing? Keep your legs still.”

“I wanna go in there!” Ammalie pointed to the other end of the trolley.

“That bit is for baguettes. Are you a baguette?”

“Yeah,” Ammalie said and began to scream.

“Okay, no, we’re not going to do that.” Beth put Ammalie down and she dramatically threw herself to the ground and had a tantrum right in the middle of the Sainsbury’s trolley park.

“What happened?” Viv looked between her wife and daughter.

“I’m a baguette, I’m a baguette!” Ammalie wailed and Viv frowned in confusion while Beth shook her head.

“Do you want me to carry you on my shoulders?” Viv asked and Ammalie lifted her arms to be picked up.

“Careful Viv.”

“I will. Hold tight.” Viv gently held Ammalies ankles as they began to walk around the store.

“She needs a nap. She gets so ratty when she’s tired,” Beth pointed out and smiled at Ammalie as she rested her cheek on top of Vivs head, the tantrum was over as quickly as it started. “I wonder where she gets that from?”

****

“What are you wearing?” Beth asked in between laughter.

Viv frowned and looked at her outfit. She was decked out head to toe in adidas; trainers, trackies, t shirt and baseball cap and a whistle around her neck.

“What’s wrong with it? I’m coach Viv today, aren’t I?”

“Yeah, to our daughter in our garden, not a team!”

“Beth if we’re going to coach her then we’re going to coach her properly, okay?”

“Yes coach!” Beth teased and mockingly saluted her wife and Viv rolled her eyes.

Ammalie came bounding towards them and immediately eyed her mother’s outfit. The sixteen year old looked at her mum and raised her eyebrows.

“This is what happens when you let her dress herself,” Ammalie said to Beth and nodded her head towards Viv.

Beth suppressed her laughter and Viv responded by blowing her whistle, loudly.

“Ow!”

“Okay, just for that, you can do two laps around the garden.”

“I was only joking!” Ammalie said.

“I’m not.”

“Viv, come on…”

“You too Bethany, let’s go.”

Beth and Ammalie shared a look of disbelief. They quickly realised Viv wasn’t going to change her mind and they decided to just get it over with. When they returned, Viv had set the goal posts and several cones in different areas in front of it.

“We’re going to do some running drills and then we’ll be doing some shooting practice,” Viv said. “But if you’re cheeky to me again, we’ll go inside and not play at all. You can’t speak to your coaches like that, even if I am your mother. Okay?”

“Yes coach.” Ammalie nodded.

“Good.”

Viv quickly explained the rules of the drills and Ammalie immediately got the hang of it. Viv blew her whistle and started the timer.

“I thought I was the strict parent?” Beth joked and nudged her wife’s shoulder. “You usually let her get away with anything.”

Ammalie finished the drill and grabbed her water bottle.

“Ready for the next one?” Viv asked and Ammalie nodded. “Shooting drills. You’re going to stand on the first cone, I’m going to pass the ball to you and you need to hit the cones in the goals. Each one is worth different points. The harder the target, the higher the points. The ones hanging from the bar are worth ten points and the ones on the ground are worth five. We’re going to do this five times. Okay?” Viv checked and Ammalie nodded. “Beth, you’re in goal.”

“What?” Beth whipped her head towards her wife.

“She’s got to have some sort of obstacle otherwise it’s too easy,” Viv said.

“It’s already too easy,” Ammalie said with confidence.

“Oh yeah? We’ll see about that!” Beth put on the gloves and clapped her hands in front of her daughter’s face. Beth got in position and waited for the first shot.

Ammalie took aim and huffed when it was easily saved.

“Ha! Who’s laughing now?!” Beth strutted and whooped and Ammalie scowled. She hit the next ball powerfully but without precision and it went wide of the post.

“Concentrate meisje,” Viv called out before she passed the ball. This time Ammalie went for precision over power and Beth caught it easily. Ammalie was getting frustrated.

Viv jogged over and put her arm around her shoulder.

“Don’t let her get into your head. She can work out your tells.”

“My what?”

“Your tells. Everyone has a sign, a behavioural clue before they do something. For example if you look to your left and then hit it in that direction, that’s your tell. Or if you stand with your striking foot ahead of your standing foot, then the opposition will know what foot you’re using. Does that make sense?”

“Yeah.”

“Okay, let’s try again.”

Viv passed the ball and Ammalie hit the ball top bins, which left Beth with no chance of saving it. The next two shots were more of the same and Ammalie was pleased with her score.

“I let you win, by the way,” Beth said in between gulps of water.

“Sure,” Ammalie laughed and picked up the ball to continue practicing on her own.

Beth ripped off her gloves and rubbed her hands. She waited until their daughter was out of earshot before she spoke.

“Some of those shots were really hard. I think she might have broken my fingers!”

“She can hit them hard, but can’t score tap ins - I think she gets that from you!”

****

“I had a very interesting conversation with Ammalie’s coach today,” Viv said one evening after dinner. Both children were busy finishing their homework while Beth and Viv cleaned up.

“What about?” Beth asked and swatted Viv’s behind with the dish towel when she bent down. Viv stood up and glared at her wife before she laughed.

“They want Ammalie to join the first team for their next game.”

“Are you serious?” Beth put down the dish towel.

“Yes. They said she’s going to be on the bench. If everything goes to plan, they’ll try and get her on for the last five or ten minutes.”

“I can’t believe it; our baby is gonna be playing at a sold out Emirates in the North London derby!” Beth was so proud she was close to tears.

The following week quickly rolled around and Ammalie was an excited ball of energy. If she was nervous, she was doing a great job of keeping it in check.

Both sets of families had travelled to The Emirates to watch the game and of course they had been given an exclusive box, since Beth and Viv were Arsenal royalty.

Unlike his parents and sister, Liam had no interest in football or any sport whatsoever. He was far more into art, and drawing in particular.

Liam realised it was a huge achievement and he was proud of his sister but it didn’t mean he wanted to watch the game and the ten year old was content to sit inside the luxurious box with his great grandmother while he worked on his self made comic book, complete with original characters.

Beth excitedly waved the stack of programmes in her hand and passed one out to everyone.

“Look at page five, that’s our baby!” She said and proudly read the feature on Ammalie.

The teams came out onto the pitch to start the game and the announcer read out the teams names and when he got to the subs names, the crowd erupted when Ammalie Meadema was announced. The buzz around her was huge.

The game kicked off and Arsenal were immediately on the front foot and were 2-0 up after thirty minutes.

Half time soon came and Beth and Viv waved to their daughter when they saw her warming up with the rest of the subs and coaches.

“I spoke to the coaches, Ammalie is definitely coming on at around the 80th minute mark. They think she’s ready for at least ten minutes,” Viv said. She wrapped an arm around her wife’s shoulder and leaned in for a kiss. “She wants you to promise not to cry.”

“Ha, it’s you she should be worried about, ya big softie,” Beth prodded her wife’s ribs.

The game was well into the second half and Arsenal were winning comfortably with the score 5-0. Beth and Viv noticed Ammalie had been called back after warming up and the entire family, including Liam, had gathered to watch her make her debut.

“Arsenal substitution….”

The crowd cheered as the substituted player made their way to the touchline.

“Making her senior debut, please give a huge welcome for our number twenty, Ammalie Meadema!”

Beth and Viv roared and clapped and waved when they saw themselves on the big screen. Both did well to keep their tears at bay that was until they heard the crowd loudly chanting their daughter’s name to the tune of Pinks song ‘so what?’

“Na na na na na na na, Ammalie Meadema!”

Ammalies first touch of the ball got the crowd excited. She was being marked by one of Tottenhams experienced defenders but Ammalie was able to get past her with ease.

The next time however, she was not so lucky. The defender had decided she wasn’t going to be embarrassed again by a kid and cynically tripped her up as she tried to spin away. Luckily Ammalie wasn’t hurt and Arsenal were given a free kick in a very dangerous position.

The players got into position and Ammalie made her way into the box, the same defender from before was once again tasked with marking her.

The defender was twice Ammalies size but she wasn’t intimidated - her grandad Rich had given her the same advice he had given his daughter: “the bigger they are, the harder they fall.” Ammalie had beaten her marker once and she knew she could do it again.

The free kick was sent into the box and Ammalie watched it all the way. She jumped and was surprised when the defender completely missed it which meant she was free and unmarked in the box. She was one on one with the ‘keeper and she had one thing on her mind - she was going to shoot.

She remembered her mothers advice about not letting the opponent know her tells and so she dropped her shoulder to try and trick the goalkeeper and shifted onto her other foot. She had a quick glance at the ‘keeper and kicked the ball through her laces, just like her mum had taught her.

It worked. The ball smashed into the back of the net leaving the goalie with no chance. The Emirates erupted and chanted Ammalies name as she celebrated in front of the clock end and tapped her badge.

Beth and Viv celebrated with their family before they turned to each other and spoke at the same time:

“She gets that from you.”

Chapter Text

“Knock knock?”

“Come in.”

Leah and Lotte entered the room and sat down on the plush sofa.

“How’re you doing?” Lotte asked.

“Petrified! You?”

“I’m not the one getting married, am I zus?” Lotte laughed.

“Are you coming out anytime soon or have we got to speak to you through the bathroom door the whole time?” Leah asked. They heard the lock on the bathroom door click open and their eyes widened when they saw Viv. “You look…”

“Scared? Nervous?” Viv supplied.

“I was going to say handsome,” Leah said and they both stood up. “Come here.” Leah rolled her eyes and fixed Viv’s crooked shirt collar. “You look pretty in pink.”

Viv looked down at her pale pink suit and white shirt. She smoothed out the imaginary crease in her trousers and nervously adjusted her waistcoat and Lotte took her hands in her own.

“I’m so nervous, I feel sick. What if she doesn’t turn up?”

“She’s already here!” Leah laughed. “You hired out the whole place so we could all stay here, remember?”

“Oh yeah we did.”

“How did you manage that anyway?”

“We named dropped you. They were only too happy to happy to have Leah Williamson  OBE on their books,” Viv teased and Leah lightly shoved her shoulder.

“You know the part of the ceremony when they ask if anyone objects? I might have a sudden involuntary muscle twitch that makes my hand shoot up in the air…” Leah teased and the friends shared a laugh.

“Have you explored the grounds yet? It’s beautiful.”

The venue was a huge wilderness reserve nestled within the countryside, a few miles outside of London. The grounds consisted of acres and acres of private land, sculptured gardens, lakes and picturesque views all around.

Beth and Viv had fallen in love with the place after they had celebrated their anniversary there and after Beth made an offhand remark about it being the perfect wedding venue, Viv made some enquiries about the availability that same day.

“I haven’t yet but the view from my room is incredible. Do you think we can try and lose Kyra in the maze? She’s already being a pest,” Leah said and Viv laughed. She looked at her watch and noticed it was almost time to go. “Are you almost ready?”

“I think so.” Viv patted down her pocket and came up empty. “Oh no!” She almost cried.

“What?”

“My speech! It’s not there! What am I supposed to do now?”

“Did you write it on your phone?” Leah asked and got a blank expression. “You’ll have to try and memorise it. You’re good with words.”

“Not in front of an audience! Help me!” Viv began to panic and looked around the room.

“What are you doing?” Lotte asked.

“It must be here somewhere! And now I have to pee because I’m so nervous!”

“You haven’t got time for that. Your dad will be here any minute,” Leah reminded her. “Look just say whatever comes to your mind. You’re always saying soppy shit to her so you’ll be fine. Failing that, you could always feign having laryngitis or pretend the microphone doesn’t work. I’m joking, Viv!” She added off of Viv’s hopeful look.

As if on cue, a knock at the door signalled the arrival of Viv’s dad. Leah and Lotte took turns to hug Viv before they left to make their way outside.

Viv and her father shared a hug and he tried not to cry. He held out the crook of his arm and Viv held on as they walked toward the gardens.

Rather than “assume roles”, Beth and Viv had decided that they would walk up the aisle together accompanied by their respective fathers. A partition between them meant they wouldn’t see each other until they were at the top of the aisle.

The gardens were magnificent and since it was a gloriously sunny day, the couple had decided to have their ceremony outside.

“Vivi?” Beth spoke from the other side of the partition.

“I’m here Lieverd.”

“I can’t wait to see you.”

“Me too.”

Leah had tapped into her music connections and had asked a couple of musician friends to perform for the ceremony. Beth and Viv had chosen to walk up the aisle to the song “today” by Joshua Radin and their cue was the chorus:

“You are the one I've been waiting for today. And here comes the sun. It's been beating more today.”

The song continued to play as they made it to the top. The partition was lifted so they could see each other and both women began to cry. Viv reached for Beth’s hands and kissed the back of them.

“The dress was my mums. It was her idea, I just had it restyled. Do you like it?”

The dress was a simple, off the shoulder white gown with an elegant lacy bodice and flowing train. It fit Beth perfectly and Viv couldn’t take her eyes off of her.

“You’re so beautiful.” Viv dabbed her eyes.

The song ended and the celebrant smiled as she welcomed the guests and brides.

Beth and Viv couldn’t take their eyes off each other as the celebrant continued her speech. They were broken out of the spell as she addressed them directly.

“We have now come to the point where we make the union official. “May we please have the rings?”

Steph stood up with Myle, who was holding two small satin bags in her mouth, one with a “B” and one with a “V”.

“Beth, repeat after me: I, Bethany Jane Mead.”

“I, Bethany Jane Mead.”

“Take Anna Margaretha Marina Astrid…”

The celebrant paused as a few sniggers could be heard.

“I thought her name was Viv?” Someone said and a few guests laughed.

The celebrant continued and asked Beth if she would promise to love, cherish, be loyal, faithful, and supportive to Viv to which of course she answered she would and Beth was prompted to slide the ring on Viv’s finger.

The same questions were asked to Viv who also said she would, which of course was never in doubt, and she put the ring on Beth’s finger.

“Beth, Viv, I now pronounce you officially married and you may seal your union with a kiss.”

The couple smiled at each other before Viv tenderly placed a hand on Beth’s cheek and pulled her in for a kiss.

Wolf whistles, applause and cheers filled the room as the kiss continued before they eventually ended it.

“Christ, straight in there with the tongue Miedema! Don’t choke her!” Katie shouted out and somebody, most likely Kim, shushed her.

Beth and Viv signed the papers and posed for the official photographer before they walked back down the aisle to cheering.

They were whisked away by the wedding photographer who wanted to get some official snaps of the newlyweds, some photos were posed and some were just them acting naturally. Viv knew her heart eyes were set to maximum but she didn’t care one bit.

Once the photographer had taken enough photos, it was time for a quick meet and greet before the speeches started.

Both respective fathers of the brides were to give their speeches first and then it was the brides turn - Beth and Viv decided they would both say a few words.

Viv’s dad went first. His speech was laced with pride, joy, and admiration for his daughter and her wife, with a few funny memories thrown in. Everyone raised their glasses to toast the newlyweds and then it was the turn of Beth’s dad.

He echoed the sentiments from Viv’s father and Beth buried her head in her hands as he recalled some embarrassing memories from her childhood. He finished his speech with a tribute to his late wife June, and how he knew that she would be so happy and proud to call Viv her daughter in law, just like him. He raised his glass and then it was Beth’s turn.

Beth stood up and the guests all cheered in anticipation.

“First of all Vivi and I want to thank you all for coming. I think we can all agree that the bride looks stunning , right?” Beth said. The guests cheered their appreciation and Beth grinned as she looked at her wife. “Anyway, that’s enough about me - Vivi looks great too, I guess!” She teased and Viv poked her in the ribs. “As you all know, I’m a woman of few words…”

“And the rest Meado!” Katie called out.

“Where’s security?” Beth joked and everyone laughed. “Seriously though I am gonna keep it short, mostly because I’m hungry and the food looks banging!” She said and more laughter rang out. “To my beautiful wife, mijn meisje, the love of my life  - you’re the best person I know and you help me to be my best self, even when I don’t believe in myself. You’re honest, authentic, loving and kind and you have the biggest heart. I’m honoured and so lucky to call you my wife and I can’t wait to do life with you. Ik hou van jou. To Vivi!” She raised her glass in a toast and everyone followed suit before she bent down to kiss Viv on the lips.

“Thank you Lieverd.” Viv took the microphone from Beth. “I’m going to echo what Beth said and thank you all for coming and sharing our special day with us. The biggest thanks goes to my stunning wife. Today is the best day of my life. I want to thank you for loving me, challenging me and encouraging me every day, especially on the tough days. You’re the strongest, most resilient and bravest person I know and you inspire me so much. If everyone was a little bit more like you, the world would be a much better place. I’ve learned that nobody is perfect, except me of course,” she paused as everyone laughed and cheered. “Seriously though, nobody is perfect but we are perfect for each other and that’s enough for me. We’ve been through so much together and to whatever’s next, I say bring it on because with you by my side, I know we can conquer anything. Ik hou van jou.” She pressed a soft kiss to Beth’s lips. Wolf whistles interrupted the moment and she reluctantly pulled away.

The servers began to bring the food out and everyone tucked in with gusto. Once the food had been eaten, it was time for the first dance. Beth and Viv couldn’t decide on just one song and so they had picked a song each.

The musicians took their place on the stage and began to perform “It’s your love” by Tim McGraw.

Viv wasn’t a huge country fan but she had instantly fallen in love with the song, particularly the lyrics, the first time she had heard it.

“It's your love

It just does something to me

It sends a shock right through me

I can't get enough

And if you wonder

About the spell I'm under

Oh it's your love.”

Beth rested their faces together and Viv softly sang the words into her wife’s ear:

“Better than I was

More than I am

And all of this happened

By taking your hand

And who I am now

Is who I wanted to be

And now that we're together

I'm stronger than ever, I'm happy and free.”

The song ended and Beth and Viv stayed in each other’s arms as the musicians sang their rendition of "love someone” by Lukas Graham.

“When you say

You love the way I make you feel

Everything becomes so real

Don't be scared, no, don't be scared

'Cause you're all I need

And you still look perfect as days go by

Even the worst ones, you make me smile

I'd stop the world if it gave us time.”

“I love you Mrs Meadema,” Viv whispered.

“Ik hou van jou, Mrs Meadema,” Beth whispered back.

Everything began to fade into the background; the song, the people, the calls of well wishers. They were in their own world together and everything around them was just outside noise. The only thing in that moment was each other and their love, the rest of the world could wait. After all, they had forever on their side.