#//It's funny because he is a pastry chef that prepares a lot of sweets

[pegasus-parfait]

//To be honest, I think black coffee without sugar would suit Pikario better than Black Tea. However that picrew didn't have black colored beverages unfortunately.

[chayacat]

Devil’s Sweet Star (39)

Fandom: Dead by Daylight

Ghostface x Female Reader  

Rated M for Violence, Language and Smut  

***

Here we are. This is the big day. A day that no one will forget and cannot forget. Today is the day of the Roseville Festival. Exactly 32 years ago, this small town was still just a gathering of houses where each one helped the other. Then little by little it developed and it became the small town that everyone knows today. And Mayor Tallis leads it with trust and respect. And you are there, among all these people, while you have only been living there for a short time, who almost considered you as a member of this great family. Just thinking about it, you have a tear in your eye.

The stands were all in place. It was sunny but a little cool which was a good thing for your cake which unfortunately, compared to the little ones who were in refrigerated windows, was going to be exposed to the open air. Speaking of the cake, it was out of sight in a fridge big enough to keep it cool while the mayor made his speech. As soon as it is finished, you can take it out, show it to the whole city and cut it to distribute it to those who want it. As the mayor you said, there were a total of 8 stands, yours included, 4 on each side of the desk where the mayor will make his annual speech. Yours being, as expected also, to the right of the desk.

“I can't believe that other journalists will attend this and taste your pastry! you imagine the ad you will have if they ever love it?? You will be known throughout the region!” said Corey enthusiastic.

“Throughout the region... it's scary anyway... can you imagine people from all over the region coming to Roseville just to eat a cake or drink a coffee? We're going to be overloaded.... and it may even be necessary to refuse customers...” said Amy worried.

“Don't get too excited too fast both... It's just a small local festival. There's very, very little chance I'll become a famous one just with that. It's going to take a long, LONG time for that day to arrive. If it happens one day.” you respond a little embarrassed.  

“Hey! Don't say that! You’re the best in the town and one day you’ll be the best in all Ohio! stop underestimating yourself! There are people who deserve less popularity than you and yet they are successful!” replied Corey.  

“He’s right! You're the best coffee shop and the best boss we’ve ever met and have!” said Amy.

You smile at Corey and Amy. They are really adorable. They went for a tour of the different stands that are still in preparation, just like yours. You never imagined being there today, at least not in such a short time in Roseville. You said that in 2 or 3 years this would be the case, but not in a few months. Lindsey installed her most beautiful floral composition on her stand, smiling and greeting you. Poor of her, these last days weren’t easy for her because of the attack on her shop, but thanks to the kindness of the inhabitants, she was able to quickly start again on a good basis. You install the last signs with the products and prices indicated on each of them. Plus, a special sign for the festival cake with a reasonable price compared to the quality, when two hands that you know only too well, because of their sweetness, hid your eyes. And the voice that followed, even in a crowd of 10000 people, you would be able to hear it.

“So? Ready to expose your creation to the whole city? Everyone in town is waiting to see that.” asks Jed with his angelic smile.  

“Yes... I'm ready. And no matter what happens, the key thing is that you're there. Do you have a lot to do?” you said, smiling at him.  

“Take pictures.... write stuff... the normal job of a journalist in fact. But don't worry, I plan to go see you... and taste your delicious cakes.”

“Leave it for everyone big foodie... Don't worry, I would put some aside for you. And for the others.”

“I take everyone's share. They find that I have to eat a little and get a little fat...”

“But of course... you will have your shares and not one more, little thief. I did just enough to feed the whole city. The other journalists are there?” you replied, looking in all directions.  

“Yes, they're out there... they are preparing for Mayor Tallis' speech. You can imagine... Roseville has been around for 32 years, and he has been running it for 20 years. It's amazing to have so much motivation, courage and willpower to start from a few houses to a small peaceful town... well, almost.” respond Jed with smile.  

“Any news about Ghostface? As you took quite a while with Hoggins...”

“Murders, still murders and more murders. But I must admit that Hoggins takes so much time from me... That Ghostface is in the background right now. Which in itself benefits him. He takes advantage of the situation to quietly kill poor victims without defences... I can't tell you how many poor citizens of this city he killed while we focus on Hoggins.

And you don't even dare to imagine it. How many throats does he have to cut while everyone is looking at Hoggins? Even to you he didn't tell you anything. Yet, and involuntarily, you are his partner! But he is far from crazy, he is not going to tell you everything in exchange for your silence and cooperation. At least not now.

You dread that day. And yet you know you'll have to deal with it. All your actions will be decisive and, while you were focusing on the festival, you have passed multiple scenarios in your head. Only one misstep and you are dead. that's a certainty. But you can't accept all this without trying anything... or maybe... From the beginning he could have killed you. And he never did. He fell in love with you. And you fell in love with Jed. Funny love triangle. But not so bad in the end.

Live a double life... is that really a good idea? Sooner or later, one will eventually discover the other. In itself they already know each other, Ghostface leaves Jed alive so that he writes his articles and builds a reputation for him. And it’s thanks to Ghostface that Jed is an emeritus and excellent journalist. You wonder inwardly if they have already seen each other in real life... face to face. We will have to ask our dear murderer... Even if between us... we know who our nocturnal murderer is. Mayor Tallis settled at his desk, tested the microphone and signalled everyone to approach. You, Corey and Amy go at your stand, both ears attentive to the mayor's speech.

“My dear fellow citizens, today is a special day, a day that I hope will remain etched in your hearts and memories for years to come. Today, Roseville was born 32 years ago. At first, it was just a pile of houses where people helped each other. Then other people came and little by little a village was built. And today a city. And it is with pride that I lead it and that I will continue to lead it until my time has come.” he starts cheerfully.  

People applauded, while journalists took notes and photos. Among them you could see Jed taking a few pictures before looking at you, his angel smile on his lips.

“I wanted to thank you all for contributing to the evolution of the city into a prosperous and beautiful city. I would also like to thank the police forces who, at the risk of their lives and knowing perfectly well the risks of their jobs, dedicate their hearts and souls to the protection of this city. Especially inspector Wilhelm who takes his work very much to heart. He is a faithful friend in whom I place all my trust.”

The inhabitants turned to Inspector Wilhelm, who smiled, visibly embarrassed to be in the centre of attention. Poor of him, it mustn’t be easy for him.

“I also wanted to thank Miss (y/n) who warmly agreed to make the cake of the city that I will unveil to you in a moment. She has only been there for a very short time but... for me she is part of our big family. May this day bring you joy and good mood, and may it remain in your hearts and minds forever. Let the festivities begin!”

Members of the town hall brought your cake, hidden under a veil, and when the mayor removed the veil, everyone was amazed. It was as big as a wedding cake, decorated with trees, cars and some shops of the city and at the very top of the cake, the town hall with Mayor Tallis in front. All in sugar dough. It would almost hurt to cut it out and eat it but it is the first and only function of a cake, to be eaten.

The festivities began and it could be said that people were enthusiastic. Children ran everywhere to the great displeasure of their parents who had trouble containing them, it was very funny to see. Older people walked through the different stands, always starting with Lyndsey's buying flowers or plants before heading to the other stands.

Journalists from other cities came to congratulate you on cake and asked you some questions about you and your family. You explain that it comes from your grandmother, a great chef who passed on her love of cooking to your father and then to you. That you do not plan to change until your retirement... that kind of thing. Your gaze occasionally derived on Jed chatting quietly with Melina and Mattew, while occasionally taking pictures of the festival. The day took place in joy and good mood. People laughed, talked, children played together, ran everywhere, escaping the supervision of their parents. But their freedoms were short-lived when the police brought them back to their parents.

While serving customers, you suddenly see Hoggins at the opposite of you, arms crossed, sitting against a lamppost, watching you. He made you smile to freeze your blood, but you give it back to him, showing that he doesn’t scare you and that he will never scare you. You can't wait for Ghostface to kill him... Oh, yes. But that doesn't mean you want to attend. Knowing him, you trust him enough to offer him a slow, painful and unbearable death. And after... you will be free. You will be able to resume your life quietly. At least that's what you think. If you knew what you got yourself into...

“Hey (Y/N)!” said suddenly a man voice.

You turn your head to see Mattew coming towards you happily followed by Melina and Jed. You knew why... what a little glutton. You chat for a little while serving customers with Amy and Corey. Towards the beginning of the evening, you warn them that they can enjoy the festival before everything stops, to which they answered thank you and asked you if you will manage on your own.

“Yes, go for it! there are not many people anymore so enjoy a little! You too have the right to have fun!” you said with smile.  

The two looked at each other before smiling and hugging you, which made you laugh. They took off their aprons before leaving the stand and visiting the other stands that were scattered all over the central square of the city. You watch them leave, with a smile on their faces, they're really adorable these two. The rest of the evening went quietly, you serve the last customers before closing your stand. You set aside some cake for yourself and Jed and give more to Melina and Mattew, as well as Amy and Corey. Everyone left little by little, and in the meantime the mayor came to congratulate you on your cake and your success. The journalists who had come to cover the event, had talked about you to the mayor, full of praise.

You feel proud, and reassured. You breathe a sigh of relief when you hear all this. Jed was waiting for you against his van. When he saw you arrive, he took you in his arms, kissing you, get you into the vehicle to get back to the apartment. Once inside, you collapse on the couch, completely exhausted by this day.

“Poor of you... you are completely exhausted.” said Jed, holding you a cup of coffee.

“Thanks Honey. You can tell... I didn't think it would be as exhausting. And yet I have a coffee and I do the same thing every day...” you respond, sipping a little. “Did you manage to take pictures?

“Oh yes, don't worry about it... and there are plenty of them that I'm going to keep to myself... you are so beautiful when you are focused on your work...”

“What a charmer you are...”

“That’s why you love me right?”

You laugh before drinking the rest of your coffee and yawning. Jed smiled before gently taking you in his arms to carry you to your room. He put you on the bed, informing you that he was coming back right away, going to put the pictures he had taken in his computer. You take the opportunity to change and lie on the bed. Jed arrived a few minutes later, changed quickly, and joined you in bed, gently taking you in his arms.

“He was there you know... Hoggins. He looked at me as if he was going to kill me.” you said worried.

“Don't worry my love. Soon he will no longer be able to harm anyone. I promise you.” responds Jed.  

Oh, yes... he won't be able to hurt anyone soon... But it is not in prison that he will end up. But in a grave.  

And you can't wait to hear it from your... “partner.”

***

(I am EXHAUSTED. This little weekend will do me a lot of good! I think we're getting closer little by little to the end of DSS, count around.... 21 chapters. After, it may take less or it may take more... it will depend on the progress and the state of my brain XD After I think I would take a small break of 2 or 3 weeks before starting RE8! but don't worry! I will take the opportunity to develop everything! and find a title. XD, I hope you’ll like this chapter like the others ones! Well, it's time for my brain to rest! Have a great weekend to you all!  See ya!)

[giranswife]

Busy Holiday

Summary: It’s that time of year again, and Ashley is helping Marielle and the others get ready for another week of holiday fun. This is causing her schedule to be a little full, which means her and Shiroe haven’t been exactly able to enjoy the holidays together as they should.

W: self-insert x canon, fluff

(( I know I haven’t posted in a while, but I wrote this last night and it was super cute. writing these holiday fics is helping me get kinda back into the writing groove, but also helping me feel better bc I’m kinda not rly feeling good physically right now. But here’s a fic with my husband who I miss terribly. I might make a part two to this for the feast! because I miss my lh family so much ))

The holidays are probably my favorite time of year. Especially coming right off of fall which is my favorite season, my mood just grows and grows as the months pass. And with my favorite holiday here, you could say happiness was it it’s highest. Even today with only a couple more days away, I was running around and trying to get everything situated given Marielle was putting together another festival. Being her sister meant I had a lot of grunt work.

Eventually I ended up feeling pretty tired, having ran around all morning taken care of errands for Henrietta on top of everything Marielle needed me to do. Not to mention the kids in both guilds wanted me to help them decorate for both guild halls, and I had to pick one to do today and then one to do tomorrow morning. Log Horizon won today, mainly because this is my guild now and because once I arrived here tonight I wasn’t getting back out.

The idea of settling down with friends and doing something fun like decorating just seemed like the relaxation I needed. Not to mention Minori seemed excited since I’d been pretty busy and hadn’t gotten a chance to really be around much. Last night while I was helping clean up after dinner, she was rattling off to me about how funny it was seeing me so busy.

“Usually it’s Master Shiroe who’s never around. Has he started rubbing off on you or something?” She asked with a little giggle at the end.

I rolled my eyes a little and bumped my hip into hers playfully.

“Yeah, yeah. Very funny. But you’re not wrong. I don’t think we’ve really seen much of each other lately. Marielle has us both really busy.”

I started drying off a couple dishes, remembering the past couple nights that we’ve tried to see each other and it just fell short. The only moment that I had for a break was to eat a quick lunch and that was conveniently the same time he was leaving for a round table meeting. I smiled remembering the small kiss that he gave me on the forehead, quickly apologizing and promising to see me afterwards.

But at that point I had to rush back to Crescent Moon to discuss feast plans with Henrietta. That involved list making and recipe exchanges, running back and forth making sure both chefs at both guilds were on the same pages. Which meant by the time I got back, I had to eat my dinner alone in the kitchen with Serera to keep me company.

Which I had no complaints about. She is an absolute angel, and we got to talking about all the different things she wanted to help me do this year. Taking as much load off my back that she could do, mainly wanting to be in the kitchen with Nyanta as much as possible. Which I had already planned for, but just hearing her go on and on was a real treat.

She and Minori are the biggest reasons why I realized I desperately wanted children of my own. They were both older, of course, but they still gave me that sense of mothering just by how I naturally am with them. Well, with Minori I’m more of a sister to, but there’s still moments where the inner future mom in me comes out. It’s just a hope that I have that one day I can have that opportunity.

Serera, though, I would adopt her if I could. She’s just this ball of energy and an angel that I adore more than words. I definitely love her just like she was one of my own, and I definitely consider her to be family probably more than anyone. I would die for her a thousand fucking times, and before I left for the night I squeezed my arms around her and told her to never change. Stay as innocent like this for as long as she freaking can.

By the time I got to bed, Shiroe was still working, and I didn’t have the energy to bring him to bed. The only time we got to see each other was in the morning before we both ran off to finish what we had to do that day. It’s amazing that the two of us are hard working, but it definitely reminds me why it would be better if just one of us was.

We’d never get to see each other if that were the case. I knew that it was likely just the business of the season and everything going on, but I knew that the two of us were upset about it. After all, this was supposed to be a time for us to be together. It was our first holiday celebrating prior to our engagement, and we should be spending more time together. Being able to enjoy it is the whole point, and so far that hasn’t really been the case.

But I was also enjoying being able to help ease Marielle’s stress, and help both guilds have a fun time that I had completely forgotten about my own wishes. And Shiroe’s, for that matter. Because he mattered too, and I didn’t want him to forget about that. Or feel like I was forgetting about him.

Which is why I had hoped that the two of us could eventually do something together, once we found the time.

I was in the kitchen after a long day, talking with Nyanta as Serera assisted him with some baked goods for the feast tomorrow night. Henrietta wanted to put together a little something between just the two guilds to get together and have a little fun. It’s been a while since we’ve done something like that, and she promised that she had everything else taken care of so I could sleep in tomorrow. I was definitely looking forward to that, having felt just how tired I was the second I walked in and smelled the delicious aromas.

“Oh that smells amazing,” I mumbled, feeling my mouth water.

“Hey Ashley! Finished everything?”

Serera was checking on something in the oven, putting down her mitts and running over to give me a hug. I smiled, patting her back and giving a small nod of response.

“Thankfully. Everything is pretty much done, which means I can relax until tomorrow evening.”

“They finally gave you a break, hmm?”

I nodded, letting out a little sigh of relief.

“I love them both, but they have had me running around like freaking crazy. I swear my feet are starting to swell. Can’t remember when the last time was that I even sat down.”

“Want me to get you a stool to sit on?”

“That’s fine, Serera, baby. I’m about to go help finish up with the decorations in a few minutes. Anybody know where Shiroe is?”

“Last I heard of him he was still cooped up with more paperwork. No surprise there,” Naotsugu’s voice chimed in as he sauntered in.

He reached to grab one of the pastries on the counter, just as Serera swatted it from his hands. My eyes widened, and I watched him glance after her as she shoved the plate away from him as quickly as possible. It took everything out of me not to burst out laughing, but I was mainly afraid that once I started I wouldn’t stop. Given that I was so completely exhausted.

“Those are for tomorrow!”

“Okay, okay! Geez!”

“Aren’t you supposed to be with Sayeko anyway?” I asked with a lift of my brows.

But the look that he gave me in response was equally as questionable.

“Should I kinda say the same to you? When’s the last time you guys have even seen each other since Marielle started ordering you around.”

“First off, I voluntarily am doing this. Second off--”

I started to say something sarcastic, but I quickly realized I really didn’t have a leg to stand on. He was kind of right, and normally I wouldn’t give him the satisfaction but tonight I wasn’t really in the mood. With a deep sigh, my shoulders slumped forward and I pressed my hand against my forehead.

“To be honest… we’ve barely said a word to each other these past couple of days. We’re both just so busy, and it sucks.”

“Just tell Marielle that you need a break. Sure she’ll understand. She’s your sister for god’s sake.”

“Yeah… You’re right. I’m just really guilty.”

“I mean, this is kinda Shiroe’s thing. Just makes it worse when you’re always constantly working too.”

I nodded, knowing that he was actually speaking a lot of truth. Something that Naotsugu tends to do at times. But I wasn't about to tease him for it, again. Not really being in the mood and mainly wanting to keep things on good terms. After all, I was in the holiday mood which meant not a lot of attitude coming out of me.

He told me a bit about his plans with Sayeko as the two of us walked back into the main hall where the rest of the kids already were having tea that Nyanta had prepared earlier. It seemed they were all waiting for me pretty patiently, which I thought was incredibly sweet and adorable. I couldn’t wait to relax and finally get off my feet.

“There she is!”

“We were afraid that you passed out on us.”

Letting out a laugh, I ruffled most of their heads and leaned back on the back of the couch to watch Isuzu strum a bit. She wasn’t playing very loudly, and it was clear that she was just trying to pass the time. But I always loved listening to her regardless. Listening a little longer might have lulled me to sleep had I not been standing up.

“You sure you’re feeling okay, Ashley?” Tohya asked me with a concerned look on his face.

I nodded, letting out a small yawn as my tails ruffled.

“Yeah, Tohya, I’m fine. A little tired, but I’ll be okay.”

I smiled to try to help them relax, but it didn’t seem to help much. It must have been clear on my face just how tired I was. But I wasn’t going to let them push me out of the room whenever I had made the decision to do this. Plus, I really wanted to be here! No amount of tired could stop me, but I did spend a couple seconds looking around the room.

“If you’re looking for Master Shiroe, he’s still busy,” Minori responded, setting down a box of decorations that she started rummaging through.

“Oh… right…”

Naotsugu noticed the disappointment on my face, nudging me forward a bit with a smile.

With a soft sigh, I nodded in silent understanding and softly gave my cheeks a slap to wake myself up. “Alright, well, let’s go ahead and get started before I actually fall asleep on y’all,” I said with a laugh.

Everyone was curious about how I was able to do all of this, seeing as I never really seemed to work this hard before. It was pretty easy to explain, considering this was one of my favorite holiday’s and I honestly felt like Shiroe might be influencing me a bit. Whether that was good or bad, I wasn’t really all that sure.

It wasn’t that long into the conversation that I heard everyone speak up and greet him. I couldn’t have turned around fast enough, extremely happy to see his face after the rather long day that I had. It was kinda hard to hide too from the way my tails swayed, having all of them out just because they mainly looked cute in the outfit I had on. And Shiroe had made me feel less embarrassed about having all nine of my tails.

“Hey love,” I said with the biggest smile I’ve had all day.

He smiled tiredly, but it was obvious that he was happy to see me too.

He looked adorable too and definitely not like he had been working all day. Wearing his nice sweater and was in the middle of putting on his coat whenever I had turned around. Almost like he was about to go somewhere, and that kind of had me a little disappointed. Where could he be going this late at night? Unless he had some last minute meeting that I forgot about.

“Hey Ashley-”

“You look… nice.”

I still kept smiling, but there was a hint of confusion in my voice. A reaction that he didn’t seem to see coming, and it was quite clear on his face. It was definitely obvious that there was something I was missing here. Even everyone else around us seemed to notice it, the collection of voices slowly falling until there was mild silence.

“Everything… okay?” I asked, getting a little nervous.

“Yeah, uhm… you forgot didn’t you?”

Tilting my head curious, I looked at him with my thoughts cycling through, trying to understand what he meant. Shiroe and I really hadn’t got much chance to talk over the past couple of days, so I couldn’t exactly pinpoint when we had time to make plans. It wasn’t until I remembered yesterday whenever I had stopped to see him before the meeting.

I remembered when he kissed my forehead and went towards the door, he promised me that tomorrow night he would take me out to make up for this. It was very quick, and I did hear him and register it, but I must have just forgotten in between every task I had to do. The second that I realized it, I knew that I had messed up.

“Oh god, I did! I’m so sorry baby!”

Naotsugu made a low ‘ooo’ sound and slowly backed away, which definitely didn’t help the situation. I rolled my eyes so hard that they could have flew out of my head, and I turned my attention back to Shiroe. It looked like he was trying really hard not to let me see how disappointed he was, which honestly I didn’t blame him. I felt extremely shitty in that moment.

“It’s okay, Sweetheart. I know you’ve been busy. We both have.”

“Yeah, but… You obviously went through the trouble to get dressed up, and I… I forgot.”

“It’s okay, really. I mean it.”

He took my hand in his, giving it a gentle squeeze. Trying to reassure me knowing that I was stressed out, but it still made me feel bad. Especially since I really wanted to spend time with him, but I knew that I also made a promise to the kids as well.

My heart sank, and I didn’t know what to do. And Shiroe was too sweet to make it a thing, which I was partially grateful for given that the kids were around. All I could do was stand there and squeezed his hand, taking in how amazing it felt in my own. I’ve missed his touch that I had started to crave it, even though it really hasn’t been that long. My body just needed it so badly.

He kissed my forehead, giving me a soft smile.

“I’ll go make some fresh tea,” He said, walking off towards the kitchen.

Pursing my lips together, I watched him walk away with my eyes stinging. This was the first time I actually felt like I disappointed him like this. It wasn’t a good feeling, and I understood exactly how he felt whenever he was really busy and forgot something that we had planned.

I turned around towards the others, feeling my ears dropping a little. There was a decision that I had to make here. Knowing that either way I was going to disappoint people, and that’s not something that I really like to do. It was clear on my face that I felt terrible, and before I even opened my mouth Minori spoke up.

“Say no more! You guys go!”

“Huh?”

“Yeah! We can take care of the rest.”

“You two deserve a break, after all.”

A soft smile spread onto my face, and I saw Naotsugu give me a little nod. He patted Tohya on the shoulder, holding a thumbs up. “Don’t worry, I’ll hold the fort here until Sayeko gets here,” He said.

I breathed a sigh of relief, feeling my heart calming down a little. It made me feel good knowing that they were all so sweet and understanding. They really were all amazing, and I felt a little better about the whole thing. And it also meant that I could see Shiroe, who I desperately needed to give my time and attention.

“Thank you guys. I love you so much. I’ll see y’all tomorrow at the party, okay?”

They waved me off, turning their attention back to their own conversation and clearly not at all bothered with me dipping out.

I trotted into the kitchen, seeing Shiroe idly chatting with Nyanta. He barely noticed me walk in, and I took the opportunity to wrap my arms around his middle from behind and squeeze him tight. He jumped a little in surprise, glancing over to see my smile.

“I’m really sorry,” I said softly, kissing his shoulder, “But you’re important to me. And you should feel important to me.”

“I know, Sweetheart. But I really don’t mind-”

“Stop, it’s okay to be upset! I know that you’re upset, but I’m gonna make it up to you. So whatever you want to do tonight, I’m there.”

“What about the others?”

“Naotsugu’s got it covered, and they’re actually very cool and understanding.”

I giggled a little, feeling his shoulders starting to relax. There was even a bigger smile on his face that appeared which made my heart skip a beat. He turned around and wrapped his arms around me, pressing a kiss to my cheek. There was a loud giggle that escaped my lips, and my cheeks brightened.

“That sounds amazing,” He said, touching his nose to mine and leaving me breathless.

This. This is what I had been missing. The second that he put his arms around me, I felt entirely at home. I was relaxed and I was comfortable. Nothing else mattered in this world but being with him. Feeling his arms around me and breathing in his scent. He really was my safe place and my comfort space.

Nyanta cleared his throat, and it was at that moment we realized we weren’t alone. Shiroe slowly pulled away, chuckling nervously and pulling at his collar.

“Uh… I’ll leave the tea out for the others.”

He nodded, and there was clearly a smirk that both of us completely ignored.

Shiroe took my hand, lacing his fingers with my own and the two of us talked about what we were going to do that night. Turns out Shiroe had a couple things planned, mainly just to walk around town since it was actually really pretty out and I hadn’t gotten to just enjoy it. Honestly, anything with him sounded like a wonderful idea.

It was pretty chilly, and every time I spoke I could see the cloud of my breath. But honestly, I loved this weather a lot. I’ve always enjoyed the cold more, being someone who feels more relaxed whenever it’s cold out. But with all of the lights it seemed to feel a bit warmer whenever we were passing by a few shops were still open.

“So do you have much to do tomorrow?�� Shiroe asked.

I shook my head, leaning against his shoulder.

“Thankfully. Henrietta knew that I needed a break, so she told me that I am completely free to sleep in and enjoy the dinner tomorrow.”

“That’s great.”

Nodding in response, I breathed in his scent and squeezed his hand rather tight.

“What about you?”

“I finished up a lot today, so it seems like I’m going to be free too.”

“Really?”

He nodded, shifting hair from my face and watching my smile form. It meant the world to me to know that tomorrow we’d be with each other all day. This was the first time in a while that this has happened, and I knew that he had made sure of that. It was just the one thing that I needed to fully relax and enjoy the day.

We passed by someone that we knew selling some hot beverages, and we stopped by to grab some. Shiroe chatted a little bit with them while I just stared at his face, seeing the way that he smiled and looked like he was genuinely enjoying himself. Maybe it was just an excuse to look at his cute face, either way I was completely lost.

When he turned back around, I still wasn’t looking away and the pink on his cheeks was definitely not just from the cold. I let out a giggle, taking a sip of my drink and giving his hand a tug. We continued walking just to talk, stopping at one shop just to see a gift that I could possibly grab for Akatsuki. She was the only person I hadn’t gotten anything for yet, mainly because I couldn’t find anything that she doesn’t already have.

“Is there anything that you want?” I asked, “Not that I haven’t got the perfect gift I’m just asking.”

Shiroe chuckled, stopping near a tree and watching me take a small sip of my drink.

“I’m looking right at it.”

My lips curled into a smile, and I gave him a rather teasing look.

“You already have me, besides that’s not really an option.”

“Why not?” He asked, wrapping his arms around my middle and pulling me closer, “All I want is just to be with you.”

A giggle escaped my lips, and it was loud enough for me to shove my face back into the cup in front of me. I knew that people were probably staring, but at this point I wasn’t even paying much attention. Not to mention most people know us anyway and wouldn’t really pay us any mind at all.

Shiroe was definitely a lot bolder now than he used to me. I would never have imagined him holding me like this. PDA was not really his thing before, and it still isn’t entirely, but he’ll hold my hand and hug me a bit no problem. He is still the flustered man I fell in love with, but he’s getting a lot bolder. Which I’m not going to complain about.

“Baaaby-”

“It’s true. I miss you,” He said, “We’ve both been working a lot, and I think that we need to give ourselves a bit of a break.”

“I agree… I miss you too. I guess I got a little wrapped up in helping Marielle that I forgot that we deserve to have fun too.”

He tucked a strand of hair behind my ear, smiling warmly in such a way that made my heart feel warm and fuzzy inside.

Shiroe gave me a soft kiss on the lips, before taking my hand and pulling me back towards the guild hall. The two of us were feeling pretty tired and just wanted to go back and climb into bed. Since we had tomorrow off, I’m sure that we planned to rest and relax. The idea sounded like the perfect way to end this hectic week.

“Hey, wait-” I spoke up, seeing him lift his brows.

There was a small silence between us before I grinned.

“Did you just actually say that we need to take a break? As in you need to take a break?”

He let out a loud sigh, rolling his eyes and trying to get me to keep walking. But I wasn’t having it. I kept teasing him and teasing him over and over again. Just because I knew that he was going to have that exact reaction.

I was sure that was the most that I’ve laughed in days, and part of it had to be because I was extremely tired. There was no way that anyone was getting me out of that bed tomorrow until at least two in the afternoon.

[cgirat]

i’m not always proud

brain big so this is a bandersnatch (2018) and pride (2014) crossover fic purely because theyre both set in the 80s and i think that joe & stefan would be a sweet couple. title is from thos moser by gupi ft fraxiom because im like that

joe cooper/stefan butler

Pride 1985. Joe marches proudly; lesbians and gays do support the miners, it's an act of solidarity as they're both treated unfairly by the government and the police. It's the best feeling being proud of who he is because for so long he'd hidden it for fear of how his family might look at him, he was out to practically everyone but the people that were meant to be closest to him. Within just a few months a lot has changed, he's moved in with Stephanie, he's working at a café near Gay's the Word, the pastry chef likes him enough they Joe gets to help out sometimes and the activism is going well so life is really looking up. It's a new way of living and he's getting used to it and overall he's happy with it.

Love does not seem to be something that's going to happen for Joe. He deals with that as best as he can, he doesn't try and force anything, if he goes to the bars and a man there wants him he's okay to make out. But no one asks him out or seems to be looking for commitment, he gets it they're young and he's still early into adulthood so it's whatever.

A young man seems to be loitering after the march is over with his hands in his pockets, eyes wide open and lips set in a straight line. Joe sees him across the street while Steph's abandoned him for some goth lesbian and they make eye contact for a brief moment before he looks away. Joe finds him a weird kind of beautiful, something about him is sharp and Joe doesn't look away. He wouldn't have crossed the street towards the man if he hasn't looked back at Joe. Pride is as good a time as any to be friendly.

Close up the man is shorter than Joe. He's still weirdly handsome at this distance and his dark hair and green eyes are intriguing.

"Did you have fun at the march today?"

The dude looks startled if wide eyes are anything to go by. "Uhhh, well, I didn't catch much of it, I was just on my way back home, actually."

"Oh cool, you should come to next year's march it'll be bigger and better hopefully." Joe smiles politely, getting the cue that the dudes not like him and he's prepared to turn around until he hears him speak again.

"Stefan. Me, uh. I'm Stefan." Stefan falls over his words, smiling sheepishly, revealing rows of shark teeth. His smile is endearing. He puts his hand out for Joe to shake.

"I'm Joe." he accepts Stefan's hand in a shake and Joe notes that his hand is warm but his shake isn't very confident.

They smile at each other for a bit even though it's awkward when Stefan releases Joe's hand and his own retreats to the pockets of his jacket.

"Well if you're not in a rush home feel free to come to our post pride party. It's at Gay's the Word; last years was good so hopefully, this year will be too."

Stefan smiles again. It's toothy and contagious.

They spend the rest of the night getting to know each other. Stefan isn't as closed off as Joe was a year ago, he talks about work and geeks out over computers and video games. He works at Tuckersoft and has already developed a "choose your own adventure" game based off of a book that received decent reviews. Joe thinks he's probably being modest. When he talks about it it seems very complicated and Joe instantly knows that Stefan is way smarter than he'll ever be because he knows smart, educated people things. It's like looking into the past, Stefan is 20 and he's closeted? Straight? Joe doesn't want to ask as it's none of his business no matter how much he wants to kiss him a little.

Joe and Stefan walk arm in arm to the bus stop and stay linked there while waiting. Stefan is a little drunk and so he talks a lot but Joe welcomes it. Joe's laughing at Stefan who can't seem to get over the fact that Joe's nickname is so shit.

"Bromley, of all the town's to be named after-"

"Even now I wonder if it's meant to be cute or if they're taking the piss."

Stefan huffs out a laugh, "I'm thankfully uninteresting so I don't have any nicknames." He pauses. "Having two friends helps as well, one of them is my dad but he's not the nicknaming type."

"It's lonely in the office?"

"Very." Stefan rests his head on the glass of the bus shelter. "Especially today, I wasn't even supposed to be in but my therapist forgot to tell me that she'd moved my appointment to Tuesday so I went there instead. I bet she was at the march today." he pauses for a moment. "Why does she even do appointments on Saturdays? Overworking is my thing."

Joe can't take his eyes away from Stefan's face. His eyes are closed and his face glows in the orange of the street lights.

"She's a lesbian?" He may be curious but whatever Stefan goes to therapy for is none of his business. He wants to know, though, one day.

"I'm not sure, I didn't ask, but you know when you can kinda just tell?"

Joe gulps. "I didn't meet a lesbian until my 20th birthday."

Stefan laughs, eyes opening and staring at Joe incredulously. "Wow, you were incredible sheltered. Can't you just tell? Like Colin's girlfriend, I don't think she's a lesbian because she's dating him but something about her isn't.... Normal."

It's past midnight. June 30th. It's officially his birthday and Joe can't catch a break. "I'm Bromley, remember?"

Stefan's laugh is glorious to hear. It's aided by a few cans of beer but welcome nonetheless. "Well happy gay birthday Bromley." he laughs, gesturing to the pin on Joe’s jacket that he’d forgotten about. of course he blushes, that’s all he’s capable of doing.

Stefan’s bus comes too soon after that. Joe says that if ever he wants to meet up again he should just go to Gay's the Word and ask for him. Then he's gone. Joe's heart flutters.

-

The next time they get the opportunity to hang out Joe ends up going to Stefan's workplace. He brings pastries and coffee which Stefan's boss eyes and makes a point of mentioning how disrespectful Joe is to come to the offices without offerings. Like the weakling he is, he gives Thakur the pain au chocolat that was meant for himself. Stefan laughs to himself, even if he keeps his eyes trained on his monitor. He and Stefan spend the day there, Joe dicks around on the computer next to him and they talk easily about the game, the book and work. Stefan reveals he wasn't really planning on releasing any games after Bandersnatch but he just kept on living after its release and with nothing better to do he started coding again. Joe hates being presumptive but he sees why Stefan's seeing a therapist.

On the way out, they swing round the record shop.

"I told my dad about you. I told him I have three friends now..." But he quickly looks up looking for reassurance from Joe, "if that's alright with you. If we aren't friends he won't be surprised if the number goes down I'm not the easiest person to get along with so-"

"Of course we're friends. You compliment my baking and photography I'm an easy man."

"Really? How easy?"

Joe flushes.

"Bad joke, sorry I didn't take my medication."

"Your medication makes you less inquisitive to your friend’s private lives?"

"Well yeah. I found out most of what I know about Colin when I was flushing them."

"Funny how that works...."

Stefan rolls his eyes while he picks out a record. Pearl jam. Steph loves them.

-

Stefan's a welcome addition to his life. He's easy to get along with, not as loud as Joe's other friends and he makes time for Joe.

He's helping at the book shop (filling shelves, taking some books upstairs for storage) with Mark.

"Y'know Bromley, I'm surprised you have time to be here between work and that boyfriend of yours." He says offhand.

That strikes Joe because boyfriend? He's been single forever having never dated seriously. He tries to never think about that because he's only getting older. He pauses from flipping through the book that he's holding.

"Boyfriend?"

"The one from pride. How'd you not know your own partner, the one with the dark hair and leather jacket?"

"Stefan?" Joe can feel himself flushing. "We're friends, what?" He laughs nervously.

"Oh, poor naive Bromley. You sheltered folk sure do congregate." Mark laughs. It's a joke that Joe doesn't really get it. It's not funny because they're not into each other that way. Joe rationalises it to himself, how Stefan and him just wouldn't work out because Stefan seems preoccupied and Joe doesn't fight for attention. He won't.

[ho-shiii]

restaurant!au x stray kids

chan

position: chef

an amazing cook that puts all his passion and love into his dishes. he improvises well too in cases where a mistake or accident rolls around; also touches up or makes changes to a recipe for those that have allergies or certain restrictions on their food intake. you may not know it but the dishes he creates all have beneficiary effects. his servers always tell him if a customer looks stressed or angry or tired, and so chan does his best to make them happy with food (maybe making a light yet energizing dish for those that are tired, or a heartwarming and homey vegetable soup for those that are stressed, the possibilities are endless)!! he especially loves when children come to the restaurant because they’re so small and pure and he’d finally have a chance to use his heart and animal shaped vegetable cutters to put in their dishes. he loves seeing the wide smiles that are on their faces as they point to a certain vegetable and yell out the animal’s name to their parents (wow that’s so soft). chan is always so touched when customers, especially food critics, ask to speak to him; when he gets bombarded with compliments and playful comments like “tell me your recipe!!” he just softly smiles at them and thanks them for enjoying the food he lovingly cooked up. with each compliment, his will to make his customers happy just grows and grows, in which he becomes extremely dedicated to his work. his staff needs to remind him to take a break every so often (aka all the members). people are surprised that he’s so young yet so successful (teamwork makes the dream work).

[the rest of the members are under the cut!]

woojin

position: sous chef

chan’s right hand man!! his preparations and focus is absolutely amazing. chan would ask him for some cut vegetables and woojin would seem like he’s ignoring him but really he’s finishing what he’s doing before he assists chan (his awareness and time management are godlike and woojin never misses a beat). he’s very strict and keeps his work space tidy. he’ll scold felix for eating the frosting as he’s decorating a cake, or bicker at jisung for playing soccer with a ball of cabbage. he’s also super humble!! when he gets praised, he always mentions how he wouldn’t have done it all without his supportive and loving crew. he makes the effort to include and talk about all his members and makes a cute little heart when he’s done, a wide yet shy smile across his face. he gives an extra special thanks to his parents and older brother (who gave him tips on cooking and eventually influenced woojin to pick up the profession!). woojin’s favorite dish he’s made since working at the restaurant was a dish he had come up with the help of the other 8 members; it actually wasn’t a dish but a nine course meal(!!) in which he worked with all of them individually and combined the whole thing into a course and surprised them on their one year anniversary after officially opening the restaurant (they all cried real tears). he doesn’t wanna admit it to the others but jeongin is his favorite and always babies him; he makes dishes during their lunch just for jeongin and himself (the others are butthurt but understand why because it’s a fact that jeongin is a cutie)

minho

position: bartender

his skills are phenomenal. he uses his good looks and his cunning personality to talk to and attract the women (even the men wow, that’s skill right there). this guy, also knows his wines and champagnes, and thus makes astounding drink combos with the chefs’ dishes. he’s actually super funny and is also super humble even though all the girls (and a couple guys) are hitting on him!! he keeps his cool and always averts the attention back to the actual customer to make them flustered like the little flirt he is. he winks a lot just to get a reaction out of the customers that are at the bar. the customers especially like when his hair is slicked back and he just looks like he’s enjoying his job as a bartender, cracking jokes to the people he’s serving and popping peanuts into his mouth (don’t worry, chan makes minho a meal when he goes on his lunch break). since some older gentlemen usually go to the bar, he always prepares a flashy show just to keep them entertained. when he starts making martinis and cocktails though, the loud laughter and surprise from the audience grabs the attention from the other customers. he loves the attention and is always generously tipped from the gentlemen and ladies. the cheeky smile he plasters on his face is killer (he is the definition of if looks could kill). his go-to server is jisung because he laughs at his jokes and actually listens to his lectures on wine and how it isn’t just “nasty old grape juice”.

changbin

position: server 

customers automatically think he’s the stoic server with a major attitude due to RBF*. they are pleasantly surprised when he coolly walks to their table and gives off a nice and enthusiastic vibe, shy smiles directed at each customer and they instantly fall in love because he’s actually the sweetest person ever. he’s the only one that can put up with jisung and his energy, so he was also put on the floor. the pen he uses to take orders was specially ordered by chan and woojin because they thought he was an amazing worker despite the rushes and stress from hopping from table to table, order after order. it’s a blue pen with a munchlax key chain hanging off of the cap (he names it gyu jr). he always tries his best to put out that cool, bad boy image and it works at first but then he just exposes himself one day. a couple that visited often brought their child and changbin was captivated by their cuteness, so he found himself standing a couple feet away just acting cute towards them (doing little things like playing peekaboo and puffing his cheeks, etc) and the baby just laughs and changbin’s heart just bursts. the baby’s parents take notice and smile at changbin but he’s embarrassed he got caught and runs away to get back to serving tables. he got a generous tip that day (and a whole lot of teasing). he often finds himself hanging around felix and jeongin though, learning more about sweets and desserts that he would like to make himself one day!!

hyunjin

position: host

eye-candy for first time customers. he’s super humble though!! many customers compliment him for his good looks but he brushes it off to bring up the amazing seungmin. he’d tell them how playful and funny seungmin was and put an arm over his shoulder and just compliments him more than hyunjin would compliment himself! afterwards, he would pout at seungmin or the other members and complain to chef chan at the end of the day, hurt that they only see him for his looks. he really appreciates those customers that make conversation with him and don’t bring up his visuals but instead compliment his personality, open-mindedness and kindness. he’d blush so much and would cover his face with the menus when he’d pick them up (after the customers ordered of course). he’d rant to his members that the customers were super nice and that he wishes for them to come again! the members are known to hype him up whenever they all gather in the morning for their daily meeting, nudging him and mentioning how cool and handsome he looks in his uniform. he’d laugh and playfully be like “shush” with a wide smile on his face. he’d mess around with jisung sometimes too and they’d both be laughing on the job (only to be scolded by woojin later). jeongin always goes to hyunjin to ask how his desserts tasted and hyunjin would be so honored because jeongin makes the BEST CAKES. hyunjin always saves half of the dessert so seungmin could taste it too! sometimes hyunjin waits until they’re both on break to hang out with jeongin and talk about sweets.

jisung

position: server

he’s very energetic and happy to tend to customers, especially those that he recognizes! his members acknowledge how happy and open he is and thus always encourage him to bring in all the customers and to have them leave with a big smile on their faces. he also cracks jokes and gets along well with literally everyone. he’s a big compliment guy, so he notices every thing; he lets every girl know that their outfit is nice and they have a mental breakdown because wow, someone noticed. and he tells the guys that they’ve got a cool haircut, or if they’re in a suit, that they looks fLY. although he’s super energetic, he often messes up orders and he always feels so bad. he brought out a salad one time when the customer had actually ordered the soup of the day and his eyes just got so wide and his mouth was hanging open. after realizing he had the wrong dish, he’d bow and apologize repeatedly because he was wasting their time. but the customers assured him that he’s alright and that it’s not big deal with wide smiles on their faces because his reaction was super cute. everyone knows he has a big heart and he has definitely come across rude customers that have hurt his feelings but because of his strong will, he put a smile on his face and continued to work with them. he’d rant to hyunjin or minho later with tears in his eyes but minho/hyunjin would not have it and would engulf jisung in a hug and tell him that those customers were just big bullies (chan and woojin were ready to fight). in his free time, he liked getting hyunjin and felix into trouble and would spend some time listening to minho’s and chan’s concerns.

felix

position: pastry chef

he makes some mean desserts ranging from, but not limited to, cakes, breads, truffles, chocolates, puddings, ice creams, you name it! his mother introduced him to baking at a young age and absolutely fell in love!! he loved how he got to lick the spoon when the frosting was done or how his house would smell like vanilla after some intense baking sessions with his dad. during his break, felix would look up recipes and desserts that he could mimic but ultimately make his own, in which jeongin would cheer aloud and push him to do his best. changbin comes around often to spy and felix would always notice, so he’d cut an extra slice of cake or put aside another cupcake for changbin to snack on (jisung is offended for not being included). he goes to chan a lot for advice and pointers as to what he could do to improve his desserts and he always creates the best ones with what chan has to say. one time chan told him to create something cute for once because kids do still pop up in their restaurant and his puppy frosted cupcakes were a hit!! he hangs around the ‘00 line a lot so they get to feast on his desserts first (and of course jeongin, his pastry chef in crime)! felix calls jisung out for being jealous of changbin when jisung is the one that eats most of the dishes felix makes. with a stuffed mouth jisung opens his mouth to say something but can’t think of anything so he just shuts it and continues to stuff his face. felix matter-of-fairly nods and scolds jisung playfully and then they all start joking around and laughing. his work is actually super diversified and he takes much pride in all of his creations.

seungmin

position: host

he’s super super super playful and welcoming, thus being one of the first staff members to be seen by the customers. all of the members’ hype man!!! seungmin is so positive and livens up the restaurant with his jokes, random singing and of course his bright smile!! customers are always flustered by his energetic self but are always so happy to be able to be greeted so excitedly by someone(??). it makes their day and they’re all smiles when seungmin is leading them to their table. once he seats them, he starts them off with drinks and asks them questions to get to know them better. once seungmin introduces who their server is, he bows slightly and smiles one last time at them and tells them to have a great meal and to come again, and he walks away after a small wave. everyone’s just so happy to see him. on their yelp profile, most of the reviews talk about the tall, smiley boy that sometimes sings to his customers and is always so energetic. when all the members read over the reviews together and see those comments, chan reaches over to ruffle seungmin’s hair and everyone’s screaming and teasing him saying “sing to me too seungminnie!!”. like hyunjin, he’d quietly tell them to shush as he smiles at the floor, his cheeks burning pink. he’s another child enthusiast and is always so happy to see them!! when he sees one come in with their parents, he’s bent over talking to them and the child’s parents are just so touched to see their child laughing and smiling. he always gives them a high five when he leaves to tend to other guests.

jeongin

position: pastry chef

him and felix are the DREAM TEAM. if you want cute, you got it. sophisticated? he’s got you covered. a small and light dish? coming right up. jeongin is the literal king of cute (his hyungs think so too)!! if you think about it, cute and desserts go very well together and that is why jeongin’s strong point is being a pastry chef. he’s not just limited to cutesy designs and dishes though, his desserts are extravagant and are so sweet and delicious (almost as sweet as jeongin himself). honestly there could be so much going on with one of his dishes but it’ll work out and mesh in all the right ways and the customers love it!! he is very passionate about the art of desserts and is harsh on himself if nothing is in the right place or if the taste just isn’t good enough. as the youngest of the group, the other members swarm around him after hearing his thoughts and just bombard him with hugs and reassuring comments. when they see the dessert he rejected, they stuff their mouths with it and actually die from how delicious and amazing it was. changbin and jisung would scream “JEONGIN WHAT DO YOU MEAN, THIS CAKE IS AS SWEET AS YOU”, and jeongin would be so embarrassed but would laugh and appreciate his hyungs attempts at cheering him up (in which it does and he’s back to his cute and motivated self). as much as jeongin is the sweetest child, he likes to prank jisung and chan a lot with his “homemade recipes”. one time, he put small pieces of octopus in his amazing carrot cake and gave it to chan and jisung to test out. jisung’s face turned from “oh yeaaaah!!” to “what. am. i. eating.” in .03 seconds. chan didn’t have the heart to say anything so he finished the bite he took and just nodded his head with a forced smile and a thumbs up. to this day jeongin has never told them and he laughs whenever he thinks back to that time.

*RBF is resting bitch face (my language i’m sorry..... i also didn’t realize how much longer i made this like i swear it was shorter!! i also apologize if my lack of capital letters bother you oh man, lmk if you want me to capitalize properly..!!)

[viralleakszone-blog]

15 Ridiculously Delicious Recipe Ideas for Easter Brunch

http://www.viralleakszone.com/15-ridiculously-delicious-recipe-ideas-for-easter-brunch/

15 Ridiculously Delicious Recipe Ideas for Easter Brunch

brunch, Easter, homemade

As an adult, the days of finding Easter appealing because it’s an excuse to run around in search of candies are long gone. But before you get nostalgic about childhood egg hunts, consider this: how much exercise do you really want to do on a Sunday? Exactly. Instead, do what brings joy to adulthood — feasting, cocktails included — and whip up a brunch for every grown up in your inner circle. No relative will miss the backyard free-for-all when recipes like these are easily up for grabs. Request That the Fun-Loving Aunt Get Things Started

Everyone has that one aunt who keeps the clan together — and who can project her voice in front of a crowded room. Ask if she can welcome everyone to the party, and pass these raspberry sorbetto mimosas around. She’ll keep the toast short and sweet, because in this case, patience is not a virtue.

Please the Second-Youngest Cousin Who is Totally Not Amused

That early twenty-something relative who’s convinced that her social calendar is way cooler than some lame family gathering will reconsider once you mention this recipe. Line the rim of a cucumber-mint grapefruit margarita with chile-lime powder, and serve her with confidence. She won’t be thinking about so-and-so’s other party after one sip. Give the Smallest Plus One a Treat to Hold Onto

Even though toddlers won’t be in your main demographic during this meal, they will be as satisfied as their parents with these flaky popovers. Not only are these pastries delicious, they’re also easy for little ones to hold themselves. And when toddlers are happy, every adult guest is happy.

Impress the Grandma Who Values Dedication

A grammie who thinks that the virtue of hard work has been lost to instant gratification can appreciate the art of homemade croissants. Mix together your own dough, spread on some butter and roll the parcels together by hand. It may not be the same as walking to school uphill and in a foot of snow, but it should still be pretty impressive.

Bake Blueberry Muffins for the “Aunt” or “Uncle” Who Might as Well be Blood

Every family has that one “aunt” or “uncle” who has earned that familial title simply by sticking around a while. And just like you appreciate his or her RSVPs through the years, it also goes without saying that a family brunch wouldn’t be complete without blueberry muffins. Warm, inviting and always welcome, this recipe has the same attributes as that unofficial member of the tribe.

Get Up to Speed with the Cousin Who is Super Athletic

She played varsity in high school, got a sports scholarship in college and now that cousin who always wore workout gear does more physical activity before 7 a.m. every day than you do once a month. Make sure she gets a second wind before brunch by pairing this crumbly coffee cake recipe with a big pot of coffee. Stay Hip With the In-Law Who Just Learned About Emojis

“BRB” was a big deal to that one aunt who learned how to text a couple of years ago, and now that she’s discovered emojis and social media — watch out. She will post a photo of this kale and sausage galette with a bunch of heart-eye smiley faces because that’s how on trend she’s become. Satisfy the Brother Whose Palette Hasn’t Changed Since 7th Grade

Predictability can be comforting, and nothing can be more foreseeable than what your brother will reach for on the buffet line. If he’s all about thick slices of meat and heaping portions of starchy sides, fill his plate with this recipe for ham glazed with brown sugar. He’ll get what he (always) wants, and you’ll have a striking centerpiece.

Ask the Typical Eldest Child If He Would Like to Lend a Hand

The eldest child in the family has been taking the lead — from organizing games, to starting inside jokes, to sitting at the adult table first — for as long as he can remember. Give him “sous chef” responsibilities with this recipe for baked eggs inside tomatoes, and he won’t let you down.

Allow the Quiet Cousin to Finish Up the Food That Will Get the Most Attention

You can prepare the majority of this cinnamon roll French toast recipe on Saturday night, but include your more reserved cousin in the final, maple-topped reveal. She’ll appreciate a brief turn in the family spotlight as the commanding scent permeates the house. Match Your Grandpa’s Classic Style With an Equally Timeless Side Dish

Some things never change, like your grandpa’s slacks and buttoned shirts, and the same comfort can be sought in the addition of deviled eggs. The familiar sight of halved eggs and sunny yolks are like Pa’s everyday uniform, while the addition of curry powder and chives is a lot like his sense of humor: a colorful detail that packs a slight punch.

Prepare an Unexpected Side Dish That is Not Unlike Your Sister’s Guest

While it’s great that your sister is ready to introduce her significant other to your family, she didn’t exactly tell you that a plus one needed to be squeezed in. Don’t panic. This recipe for Brussels sprouts and pomegranate, in a lemon dressing, is akin to the newbie: a breath of fresh air that no one saw coming. Make this ahead of time so that you can spend your free moments grilling her sweetheart for answers.

Reminisce With the Wallflower Turned Entrepreneur

You have a soft spot for that one cousin who was always trying to figure out ways to get cash as a kid. Whether it was betting your dad in poker, counting dollars from Grandma’s greeting cards or selling lemonade from a sidewalk stand, that cousin taught you how to stretch your piggy bank’s loot much further than you ever thought possible. Bake lemonade cupcakes in his honor, and ask how his latest venture is going.

Use Frosted Cookies to Keep the Kids’ Table in Check

The kids who do have an Easter egg hunt to look forward to will be getting antsy toward the end of the brunch, but these sugar cookies should keep them in their seats while their parents finish their plates. Smile slyly at your cousin when he leans down to say, “You can have one cookie if you finish your Brussels sprouts.” Little do the kids know, these cookies are vegan.

Cut a Slice of Carrot Cake for the Uncle Who Always Has a Laugh

The uncle who is known for regaling the family with hilarious encounters and wacky what-ifs probably spent the majority of the brunch speaking rather than eating. Reward his knack for providing entertainment by cutting him the first slice of carrot cake. He won’t find the homemade batter and frosting the least bit funny