Chapter 14: Out

Author's note: Grammarly keeps correcting Tree's name to 'the tree' lmao but here ya go, a fun chapter :) 

Taylor's phone buzzed constantly, making her stomach fill with dread. Whenever her phone blew up like this, it was never good. With shaking fingers, she swiped to unlock, her heart plummeting as she took in the headlines splashed across every media outlet and gossip site.

CAUGHT ON CAMERA: TAYLOR SWIFT'S STEAMY MAKEOUT SESSION WITH FEMALE PRODUCER

SWIFT'S SAPPHIC SCANDAL - INSIDE HER SECRET LESBIAN ROMANCE

BUT DADDY I LOVE HER - TAYLOR SWIFT IS GAY!

"Oh god," Taylor breathed out as she read what people were saying on social media. Slurs, death threats, proclamations of betrayal and disgust - it was a tidal wave of hate crashing over her, threatening to pull her under.

"Tay? What's wrong?" Ava rushed over from the kitchen. One look at Taylor's face was all it took to know something was terribly wrong.

"Shit. They know, don't they? About us?"

Taylor could only nod mutely, hot tears pricking at the corners of her eyes. She felt Ava's arms come around her, pulling her into the solid warmth of her body as if she could shield her from the world itself.

"Those fuckers," Ava seethed. "Those absolute bastards. Where do they get off, talking about you like that?"

"It's not just me," Taylor whispered brokenly, turning her phone so Ava could see the screen. "They're coming for you too."

Ava's eyes scanned the hateful comments, the threats and slurs hurled her way with such casual cruelty. To Taylor's surprise, her expression remained stony, unmoved. A chuckle fell from her lips.

"Please. You think this is my first rodeo with bigoted assholes on the internet? I could eat these little trolls for breakfast."

Her gaze softened as it landed on Taylor once more, taking in the tension radiating from every line of her body. "Babe, I know this is scary. I know it feels like the world is caving in on you right now. But we knew this would happen eventually, right? That people would find out about us?"

Taylor shook her head, miserably. "Not like this. Never like this. God, Ava, they got pictures. Of us kissing, touching... there's no denying it now."

"So we don't deny it," Ava said fiercely. She cupped Taylor's face in her palms, forcing their gazes to meet. "Sweetheart, listen to me. I'm not ashamed of you, of us. I could never be, no matter what some dickheads on Twitter try to say about it."

She took a deep breath, her thumbs brushing tenderly across Taylor's cheekbones. "I love you, Taylor Swift. I love you more than I've ever loved anything or anyone in my life. And if that means taking some shit from small-minded bigots, then bring it on."

A broken sob tore from Taylor's throat as they crashed their lips together, the salt of her tears mingling with the fierce press of Ava's mouth.

When they finally broke apart, Ava touched her hand. "We're gonna get through this. You and me against the world, remember?"

Taylor let out a sigh, clinging to Ava like a lifeline. "I'm so scared," she confessed in a small voice. "What if... what if this ruins everything? My career, my reputation... what if everyone turns their back on me?"

"Then fuck 'em," Ava declared, fire and conviction in every syllable. "If they can't see what an incredible, brave, beautiful soul you are, then you're better off without them." She pressed a hard kiss to Taylor's forehead. "You've got me, no matter what. I'm not going anywhere, I promise you that."

Taylor exhaled shakily. "I love you," she breathed, "I love you so fucking much."

Ava smirked. "Damn right you do," she teased, "I'm a goddamn catch." Her expression gentled, "I love you too, Taylor. To the moon and back, and then some."

They stayed like that for long moments, wrapped up in each other's embrace.

Finally, Ava pulled back just enough to meet Taylor's eyes, determination etched into every line of her face. "Okay. Let's do this. Let's show those bastards that they messed with the wrong power couple."

Taylor felt a surprising laugh bubble up from her chest, startled and genuine. "Power couple, huh?"

"Damn straight!" Ava crowed. Then, catching herself, she smirked. "Well, not straight, obviously. But you get my point."

That startled another giggle out of Taylor, some of the tension easing from her body in the face of Ava's irrepressible spirit. "God, I love you," she sighed, almost helplessly. "What did I ever do to deserve you?"

"Well, being a sexy, brilliant, talented goddess was a good start," Ava laughed. Catching Taylor's exasperated look, she added. "You exist, Taylor. You're you. That's more than enough reason for me to love you with everything I've got."

Ava straightened, squaring her shoulders like a soldier going into battle.

"Right. Game face on, Swift. We've got a bigot brigade to take down and an epic romance to defend. You with me?"

Taylor took Ava's hand. Her eyes met Ava's, sure and steady.

"With you? Always."

—-

As the limo pulled up to the red carpet, Taylor felt her heart hammering against her ribcage, nerves jangling. She turned to Ava, "Are you ready for this?"

Ava laced their fingers together, giving Taylor's hand a reassuring squeeze. "With you by my side? I'm ready for anything."

From the front seat, Tree cleared her throat. "Remember, ladies, we stick to the script. Ava, that means no off-the-cuff remarks, no inflammatory responses to press questions. We're aiming for dignified and united, got it?"

Ava rolled her eyes good-naturedly. "Yes, mom. I'll be on my best behavior. Until one of them pisses me off."

Tree pinched the bridge of her nose, summoning patience. "Ava. Focus. This is serious."

Ava nodded. "I know, I know. I'll keep it classy, Tree. Promise."

With that, the car door opened and they were immediately surrounded by noise - screaming fans, shouting photographers, the general chaos of a high-profile event. Ava exited first, turning to extend a hand to Taylor with a soft, encouraging smile.

Taking a deep breath, Taylor accepted Ava's hand and allowed herself to be led out onto the red carpet. Immediately, the chaos intensified, cameras flashing in their faces.

"Taylor! Taylor, over here!"

"Ava, how long have you and Taylor been together?"

"Taylor, what happened with Joe? Did you leave him for a woman?"

The questions came hard and fast, intrusive and relentless. Taylor felt Ava's hand tighten around hers. Plastering on her most dazzling media smile, they carried on walking.

"But what about Joe?" a particularly aggressive reporter cut in. "Did your relationship with Ava overlap with your time with him? Was he just a cover-up for your secret lesbian affair?"

Taylor felt the blood drain from her face. Before she could formulate a response, Ava was stepping forward, a dangerous glint in her eye.

"That's a really invasive and disrespectful thing to ask, don't you think?" she said coldly, staring down the reporter. "Not that it's any of your business, but Taylor and I-"

"Ava," Tree interrupted smoothly, appearing at their side with a tight smile, whispering. "Remember what we talked about in the car?"

Ava clenched her jaw, visibly biting back a retort. "Right. Sorry." She turned back to the press line, pasting on a passably polite expression. "We're just here to support the cause. Our personal life is not up for public dissection."

The reporters continued to shout questions, growing more aggressive by the second. Just as Taylor felt herself start to crumble under the onslaught, Ava wrapped a protective arm around her waist, guiding her further down the carpet.

"I've got you," she murmured, low and reassuring. "Just keep walking, babe."

Taylor leaned into Ava's solid strength, allowing her to lead them through the media frenzy.

Finally, they made it into the relative sanctuary of the building. As soon as they were away from prying eyes, Taylor slumped against Ava, exhaling shakily.

"That was horrible," she mumbled into Ava's neck. "The things they were saying, implying... God, Aves, I'm so sorry you had to deal with that."

Ava rubbed soothing circles on Taylor's back, dropping a kiss to her hair. "Hey, none of that. I knew what I was signing up for, remember? I can handle a few asshole reporters."

"You were about two seconds from verbally murdering that one guy," Tree said sternly, coming up beside them. "So much for 'best behavior,' huh?"

Ava replied, trying to steady her voice. "He had it coming, Tree. You heard the shit he was spewing."

Tree sighed, but there was a glimmer of understanding in her eyes. "I know. And believe me, I wanted to knock his teeth in myself. But engaging with bottom-feeders like that, it just gives them more ammunition."

Ava grumbled something under her breath that sounded suspiciously like "fucking vultures," but nodded nonetheless. "Fine. I'll play nice. For now."

Taylor lifted her head, meeting Ava's gaze with a watery smile. "Have I told you lately how amazing you are? How grateful I am to have you in my corner?"

Ava's expression softened, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "Once or twice. But I could stand to hear it a few dozen more times." Her arms tightened around Taylor's waist. "I've always got your back, Swift. No matter what. Let the vultures say what they want - you and me, that's what matters."

Tree made an exaggerated gagging noise, breaking the moment. "Save the sappy stuff for when I'm out of earshot, will ya? Some of us haven't had enough champagne to stomach that level of lovey-doveyness."

Taylor found herself giggling, the tension from the red carpet slowly easing. "Aww, Tree. Feeling left out? Need a hug?"

"Don't even think about it," Tree deadpanned. "You know I don't do 'cuddly'. I'm your publicist, not your teddy bear."

At that, even Ava let out a snort of laughter. "Man, Paine. You should loosen up a little."

Tree rolled her eyes. "Remind me why I put up with you two crackheads again?"

"Because we're your favorites and you know it," Ava said cheekily. Then, more sincerely, "And because you're family, Tree. We couldn't do this without you."

An unmistakable softness passed over Tree's face before she quickly schooled her features back into professional mode. "Yes, well. You're just lucky I like you."

Despite her words, it was clear Tree was touched by Ava's sentiment. Taylor felt a rush of affection for them both - her fierce, steadfast girlfriend and her loyal, endlessly patient publicist.

"Come on," she said, taking Ava's hand and nodding toward the main ballroom. "Let's get in there and show them what a power couple really looks like."

Ava grinned, bright and blinding. "Lead the way, gorgeous."

As they entered the ballroom, Taylor instantly spotted a familiar blonde head among the crowd. "Blake!" she called out, waving to catch her friend's attention.

Blake Lively turned, her face lighting up as she saw Taylor and Ava approaching. "Tay! There you are!" She pulled Taylor into a warm hug, then turned to Ava with a mischievous grin. "And you must be the famous Ava. I've heard so much about you."

Ava smirked, returning Blake's hug with equal enthusiasm. "All terrible, I hope?"

Blake laughed. "Oh, naturally. Tay here has just been gushing about what an absolute menace to society you are."

"Well, I do try," Ava said. "Can't let my reputation slip, you know."

At that moment, Ryan Reynolds appeared beside Blake, slipping an arm around his wife's waist. "Did someone say 'menace to society'? Because I feel like I should be involved in this conversation."

Ava's eyes lit up with unholy glee. "Ryan Reynolds, as I live and breathe."

Ryan grinned, extending a hand for Ava to shake. "And you must be the notorious Ava Reed. I've seen your work - big fan of the way you absolutely demolished that reporter on E! News last week."

"Oh, you mean the one who asked me if dating Taylor was just a publicity stunt?" Ava's smile turned sharp. "He had it coming."

"Damn right he did," Ryan agreed. "Honestly, the nerve of some people. You'd think basic human decency was a foreign concept."

As Ava and Ryan fell into easy conversation which mainly consisted of ridiculous anecdotes, Taylor and Blake shared anexasperated look.

"Looks like we might have created a monster, letting those two meet," Blake said, smiling.

Taylor giggled. "God help us all. The world isn't ready for the combined chaotic energy of Ava Reed and Ryan Reynolds."

From nearby, Tree cleared her throat meaningfully. "Ladies, they're about to start seating for dinner. We should probably find our table."

Nodding, Taylor gently nudged Ava, breaking her away from her animated discussion with Ryan. "Come on, babe. Time to be good little party guests and take our seats."

Ava pouted dramatically, but allowed Taylor to lead her toward their designated table. "Fine, but only because you asked so nicely. And because I'm hoping there's an open bar."

Ava immediately claimed the chair next to Ryan, grinning widely. "Ready for round two of 'who can make the most inappropriate jokes and makes Tree cry?"

Ryan matched her grin, a devilish glint in his eye. "Oh, you are so on, Reed. Loser buys the other a bottle of the most expensive whiskey at the bar."

From across the table, Blake caught Taylor's eye, shaking her head in amused resignation. "We're in for a long night, aren't we?"

Taylor laughed softly, reaching for Ava's hand under the table and giving it a gentle squeeze. "Probably. But I can't say I mind too much. It's nice to see her like this, you know? Relaxed, having fun."

Blake's expression softened in understanding. "I get that."

Their tender moment was interrupted by a burst of laughter from Ryan and Ava. Taylor glanced over to see Ava practically doubled over, tears streaming down her face as Ryan grinned proudly.

"Oh god, I'm almost afraid to ask," Taylor said, half to herself.

As if sensing her gaze, Ava looked up, her eyes still crinkled with laughter. She leaned in close to Taylor, her breath warm against her cheek. "Have I mentioned lately how fucking hot you look tonight?" she murmured, low and appreciative. "Because seriously, babe. That dress? I'm having all sorts of inappropriate thoughts right now..."

Taylor felt a delicious shiver run down her spine at Ava's blatant flirting, heat prickling under her skin. Before she could respond, however, a menacing hiss came from her other side.

"Ava! Hands above the table, hotshot!" Tree leaned over, flicking Ava's ear sharply. "I swear, you have the self-control of a horny teenager sometimes."

Ava yelped, rubbing at her ear with an affronted pout. "Ow! Damn, Tree, no need to get violent! I was just complimenting my incredibly sexy girlfriend, is that a crime?"

"It is when you're doing it loud enough for the elderly couple two tables over to hear," Tree retorted, unimpressed. "Keep it PG, Reed, for the love of god."

Ryan, who had been watching the exchange with barely restrained glee, let out a low whistle. "Damn, Paine. Remind me never to get on your bad side. You're kind of terrifying, you know that?"

Tree shot him a withering look. "You're telling me. Keeping these two in line is a full-time job," she jerked her chin toward Taylor and Ava. "I deserve a raise. And a vacation. Possibly a medal, while we're at it."

That set off another round of laughter around the table, removing any residual tension. As the conversation flowed, easier and more lighthearted now, Taylor found herself relaxing fully for the first time that night.

The event eventually wound down and Ava, Tree, and Taylor made their way toward the waiting limo, the flashes of paparazzi cameras following their every step. Tree reached the car first, stepping aside to allow Taylor and Ava to enter before her.

Just as Taylor was about to slide into the backseat, Ava caught her hand, tugging her back. "Hold up, Swift. I think we're forgetting something important."

Taylor blinked, confused. "What are you-"

But before she could finish her sentence, Ava was pulling her into a kiss, right there on the red carpet in front of dozens of cameras. Taylor made a muffled noise of surprise before melting into the embrace, her hands coming up to tangle in Ava's hair.

The paparazzi went wild, shutters clicking furiously as they captured the intimate moment. Tree, who had been halfway into the limo, froze, her eyes widening in horror.

"Oh my god," she hissed, frantically motioning for the two to break apart. "What are you doing? Get in the car!"

Ava pulled back with a wicked grin, winking at the cameras before practically pushing a dazed Taylor into the backseat. Tree slammed the door shut behind them, unamused.

As soon as the limo pulled away from the curb, Tree rounded on Ava, her face a mask of incredulous fury. "Are you insane?" she sputtered. "What the hell was that little stunt back there?"

Ava shrugged, casually draping an arm around Taylor's shoulders. "What? I can't kiss my incredibly hot girlfriend after a successful outing? Seems pretty standard couple behavior to me."

Tree looked like she was seconds away from throttling Ava with her bare hands. "Standard couple behavior does not include mauling each other in front of the paparazzi! Do you have any idea the kind of headlines that little display is going to generate?"

"Oooh, I hope they use a good pic," Ava mused. "Maybe an artsy angle. Really capture the raw passion of the moment, you know?"

Taylor, who had been watching the exchange with a mix of amusement and exasperation, couldn't help but giggle at the look of abject horror on Tree's face. "Babe, you're not helping," she murmured to Ava, even as she snuggled closer into her side.

Ava grinned down at her, pressing a quick kiss to her temple. "I think I'm helping a great deal. Someone's gotta keep Tree on her toes. It's for her own good, really."

"For my own-" Tree cut herself off, pinching the bridge of her nose as if staving off a migraine. "Ava Reed, I swear to god, you are going to be the death of me. Do you get some sort of perverse joy out of making my job a living nightmare?"

"Aw, come on, Tree. You know you love me," Ava cooed, batting her lashes exaggeratedly. "I keep things exciting! Spice up your life a little!"

"I have plenty of excitement in my life, thank you very much," Tree gritted out. "I don't need you adding unnecessary drama to the mix."

Ava gasped, placing a hand over her heart. "Drama? Moi? I resent that accusation. I am nothing but zen."

To illustrate her point, she turned to Taylor and nipped at her neck. Taylor let out a breathy laugh, halfheartedly swatting at Ava's shoulder. "Ava! Behave!"

Tree looked about two seconds away from flinging herself out of the car. "I am begging you, please don't make me watch you two canoodle in the back of this limo. I will actually vomit."

Ava smirked, trailing a fingertip teasingly down Taylor's arm. "Canoodle? Oh Tree, you ain't seen nothing yet. Want me to show you what real canoodling looks like?"

"No!" Tree practically shrieked, clapping her hands over her eyes. "Absolutely not! I forbid any and all forms of canoodling in my presence! And Ava, I swear to god, if your hand goes any higher up Taylor's thigh, I will throw myself into oncoming traffic."

Ava cackled, clearly delighted by Tree's distress. "Alright, alright, simmer down, maam publicist. I'll keep my hands to myself. For now." She shot Taylor a heated look that promised all sorts of delicious mischief later.

Taylor, caught between laughter and arousal, gave Tree an apologetic smile. "Don't worry, Tree. We'll behave. Scout's honor."

"Scout's honor is three fingers isn't it?" Ava brought them up to demonstrate and wiggled her eyebrows as she lowered them dangerously close to Taylor's midsection.

Tree rolled her eyes, praying for strength. "Lord grant me the serenity to deal with these two idiots on a daily basis," she muttered, making them both laugh.