#[ and when adding more feels more than a chore that a burden ]

[fatuismooches]

At the beginning of your relationship with Dottore, there had been numerous times when he had tried to leave you, or rather, attempt to force you to leave him in the Akademiya. Ignoring you, snapping at you... most notably literally kicking you out of the dorm (to waking up and nearly stepping on you, as you had decided to knock out right at the door.) Merely because he still had difficulty believing he was loved by you, despite having known you for years. It took much time but, eventually, your feelings finally clicked in that genius head of his.

However, uncharacteristically enough, there was one time you debated on whether you should leave Zandik. Only one time. And he had found out. If only you had been more careful.

It happened during the later stage of your illness when your ability to do many basic tasks had been stripped from you, leaving you reliant on Zandik for many things. You felt very guilty, for making him so do much work for both himself and you, but there wasn't much you could do about it, being the way you were now. Did you tell your lover about this? No, of course not.

But today, today would just be another regular day of what you had accepted to be your new life. However, you had noticed in the morning he seemed rather irritated, but you had no chance to ask him about it since he had to leave for class. You wondered what that was all about. (You, somewhere in the depths of your mind thought. You were continuously being a burden on the knowledge-driven scholar, no wonder he'd be irritated.)

When he returned to the dorm, you could tell that the foul mood still remained. Though, you could not understand what had caused it. He was perfectly fine last night, something must have happened after you fell asleep... As you watched him, the words "welcome home" could not seem to come out as they usually did, especially when he had not even acknowledged you yet, only emptying his bag with all of his books and other tools. You swallowed nervously, wondering how you were going to go about this when he spoke.

"Where?"

"Huh?"

"Where do you plan to go?" You were understandably confused by this seemingly random question.

"Um... nowhere?" A nervous smile made its way to your face, as Zandik only gave you a blank look, before carefully unfolding a piece of paper, and reading it over once more, no emotion on his face. Which, was already quite alarming for you, because Zandik was the kind of person who always had a hint of annoyance written on his face. He then turned the paper to face you and you squinted, reading the contents.

Oh. You instantly recognized what it was. It was a form that one had to fill out if they wanted to move out of the Akademiya's dorms.

When you said you felt guilty for everything, you meant it. Meant it to the point you worried if you were still good enough for him, if you had become annoying, a bumbling nuisance that had become more of a chore rather than a partner. It worried you, and you couldn't help but think about it. What if you were right? What if he did feel all of those things? Then maybe, maybe you should relieve him of this burden. You. Then, he could continue to pursue his goals, without the added hindrance of taking care of you.

It wasn't something you were set on yet, more like something you mulled over in your head. But you had filled out the potential moving out form tentatively just in case you decided to go through with it. Ah, you probably had shoved it in your bag along with your many missing assignments, and Zandik must have found it after trying to check your homework... But now, your lover was staring holes into you, expecting an answer.

"Well, I- I didn't mean it. It was... just in case," you were just spewing words at this point because you really had no defense. After all, how do you explain to your roommate of many years that you were going to move out and disappear without telling him?

"Just in case," the scholar repeats. "Just in case..." And then Zandik laughs. At what? You're not sure, because you've only seen him laugh at other people's foolishness, or in scorn and bitterness. It's a bit unsettling, seeing him act this way, but you have no time to think about it before the paper is torn right in half twice and then abandoned in the trash bin.

"No." Well... alright then.

"Za-"

"No, no no no. How utterly absurd. Ridiculous. You are not going anywhere." The way he says it simultaneously sounds like an order to you yet also an attempt to reassure himself of your impossible departure. You wondered if he interpreted your reason for leaving as something more... drastic.

"Hey-" You stand up, hoping an embrace would calm his nerves, but he begins to pace around. Now, this wouldn't be unusual, he tends to do this while he's ranting or deeply thinking about his research but obviously, it's different this time.

"Leave? No," Zandik scoffs to himself, "the possibility is nigh on impossible. There is no need to plan for such lengths, I shall make sure it doesn't come to that." When he finished mumbling to himself, you tried to interject before his gaze snapped back to you.

"And you. You, how dare you go behind my back and do such a thing? Do you think me incompetent? Do you think me a senseless fool that I would allow you to do this?"

"..."

"I find this quite tasteless, especially after how much you parroted about 'always being by my side' or 'never leaving'. Or have you finally shown your true colors? Leaving me after-" Zandik cut himself off because the words he was going to say next shouldn't be said out loud. Leaving him after he's already obsessed with you, when he's already in love with you and would go mad without your presence. But then all he could feel was your arms around him and your face buried in his chest.

"Zandik please, I'm sorry," your voice was but a whisper. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean anything like that." Zandik's hands itched to hold you back, but he restrained himself, needing to hear your reasoning.

"I don't want to leave you, I really don't. I love you! So... that's why I filled that form out. Because I... am scared of burdening you too much. I know how you are. I know you want someone who is useful, w-who can be of assistance in all kinds of ways, not someone who is dead weight. So I... I don't want you to force yourself to- ow!" Your increasingly pitiful dialogue was interrupted by a flick to your forehead and the clicking of a tongue.

"Fool..." he moved his hand to rest on the top of your head. "You can be quite intelligent, but the reasons for your stupidity can be headache-inducing sometimes. Now that you've said all of that, has it clicked how idiotic it sounds?" Though your partner's words sounded harsh, his tone was noticeably softer. You could only cast your gaze downward as he sighed.

"I too wonder why you do not take your own advice. Were you not the one who said to... 'talk things out', before jumping to conclusions? So why have I not heard of this?" (The phrase feels out of place and rather disgusting on the man who normally refuses to hold a conversation on anything other than research, but he forces it out for your sake. Unfortunately, he can also hear your sing-song voice in his head as he replays the words.)

"Because... it's dumb, like you said. I shouldn't waste your time anymore..."

"I usually do not entertain dumb inquiries but... you are an exception. My assistant's questions must always be clarified." And as his lover, your troubles must always be assuaged, but that part was left unsaid, although you knew what he meant. "Yes, your usefulness was a great help, but I couldn't care less about that right now. I care about you, and if taking on extra responsibilities happens to fall under that feeling, then so be it. I don't care," Zandik said bluntly. Was it elegant? No. Was it truthful? Yes. It made your cheeks warm a bit.

"Well... thank you for the honor," you couldn't help but crack a tiny smile as Zandik only mumbled something incoherent before pushing you back to bed. Ah, you were feeling a little drained from all of that.

"Now that all that is sorted out, and that hopefully every inch of that nonsense has left you, I suggest you go to sleep quickly, unless you want to be kept awake by the sounds of my latest experiment." You only giggled at your boyfriend. He's unkind... in a kind way if that made sense. But before you could be whisked away to the land of dreams, Zandik spoke once more.

"[Name]."

"Mhm?"

"...Do not try to leave me ever again."

"...I know, Zandik."

[nayatarot777]

what do you need to admire yourself for? ~ pac

*pics not mine. they’re from pinterest

~~~~~~~~

• pile 1 • 🍼🍼🍼🍼🍼🍼🍼

hi pile 1! welcome to your reading ☺️

one of your most admirable traits is your ability to break through limitations and barriers - most of which i feel are set in place by others or external circumstances outside of your control. you guys may have been raised by a family who put so much burden and unnecessary expectations onto you. they expected you to handle most of the responsibilities that the grown adults should’ve been handling. this doesn’t just have to be things like chores. i’m picking up on parenting children (most likely your siblings) when you were just a child yourself.

for others of you, your parents were extremely hard workers when you were growing up, so you were left with the responsibility of being the parent at home when your parents were working to sustain the family financially. for those of you who this message resonates with, please remember that although your parents did their absolute best to provide for you and your siblings, you still have the right to feel like your childhood was robbed of you. that doesn’t mean that you’re calling your parents “bad parents”. it just means that the responsibilities of the family that they created clashed with their financial responsibilities and unfortunately, you were the one who the extra responsibility was added onto (presumably because you’re the eldest). you still had the right to a healthy childhood, it’s just that circumstances got in the way.

for some of you in particular, you come from an abundant family. if not financial abundance then an abundance of people who all live under the same roof. those who you cared for really admire and appreciate you. especially any grandparents that you may have had to care for. some of your grandparents have passed (and if not then their physical state of being might be limited. not being able to speak or express themselves due to health conditions like dementia for example). they’re coming through to say that you’ve made the last few years of their life happier and much more content. you really have given them a lot of comfort in what was probably a very worrying part of their life when their health was deteriorating. they’re so thankful and appreciative of you. i feel so much gratitude and love from the grandparents that i’m picking up from this message that i want to cry 😭

you’re really breaking through generational curses and a lot of you may even have siblings who you’ve raised with a much healthier mindset and sense of self than your caregivers would’ve or could’ve given them.

if these siblings are younger than you, i’m seeing that they’ll be the ones in your future who will be more than happy to come to your aid when you need help. they will give you the care that you give them when you need it.

for others of you, i’m seeing that you may be the one who held your parents accountable for their mistakes, and that you managed to create a healthier household. a lot of you have shown your parents the generational curses that they fed into and now they’ve been laid to rest (or at least your family is in this process currently as everyone tries to improve themselves for the sake of each other).

generally speaking, you know how to turn your burdens into abundance. whatever that means for you. you’re growing a whole garden of abundance and you’re fertilising it with the motivation that you have to push you and your family to not live a life full of hardship.

a lot of you in this pile are the first to do something in your family. i feel like this is about being the first to reach a certain level of education or starting a business of your own.

you’ve invested so much energy into this family unit, and i’m seeing that it made everything 10x better. you’re a truth speaker and you do what needs to be done. you see things through until the end with determination to create stability and abundance for your loved ones.

there’s actually a message that you’ve done enough. a lot of you feel like you have to be on go all the time but you deserve rest and relaxation. you deserve to be cared for now. thanks to you, major cycles have been completed or are coming to an end because of the fact that you were adamant to do better - as well as making other people realise that they need to do better 💛

• pile 2 • 🧃🧃🧃🧃🧃🧃🧃🧃

hello pile 2, welcome to your reading ☺️

immediately i’m seeing that you guys know how to hold your own when you’re being attacked. whether that’s verbally, physically, spiritually or psychically. doesn’t matter. i’m seeing one person defend themselves from multiple people, basically being jumped. a lot of you are great fighters physically too (you better do what you gotta do, pile 2 👀😂).

i’m seeing that a lot of you often face conflict with others who try you. they test you because you look like or seem like the type of person who’s defenceless. these are usually those who you’ve helped heal in some way. i’m ngl, a lot of people see you as vulnerable or someone who wouldn’t have the strength to stand their ground. i’m seeing that this is mainly because of your physical looks as well as the loving, caring, healing energy that you exert to people.

you’re represented by the star. very peaceful, healing, and caring. you care for those who are in need of help. a lot of people could place you into the role of their own personal therapist or little helper, and as soon as you set boundaries and want to show up as who you are authentically (instead of the role that other people project onto you), bitches wanna start to attack you. they don’t expect the verbal, spiritual, or physical beat down that they receive. a lot of these people operate in groups too. they subconsciously know that they could never try you by themselves, so they usually gather a group of people to do their bs alongside them. but you deal with every single one of them with ease.

you have a very strong sense of self. you know exactly who you are and once you realise that you’re being taken advantage of due to not implementing boundaries when they were needed, i feel like you waste no time in setting the record straight which people don’t like. you might struggle to trust in your intuition at times regarding whether or not people are actually using you for their own benefit instead of keeping you around because they value you. don’t denounce your intuition. it’s never wrong.

you’re full of such happiness and joy. you’re definitely the types of people who light up other people’s lives. you might always be the type who’s smiling, laughing, nurturing people. this breeds a lot of jealousy in others. in miserable people who aren’t as likeable, approachable or impressive as you. you’re unique af and you stand out. i’m seeing aquarius and leo - sister signs - both of which you could have in your birth chart. or you could have a prominent sun/uranus or prominent 5th house and 11th house placements. you take away some people’s shine (in their minds) because they feel like they don’t measure up. that’s because they’re often in secret competition. by themselves. because you don’t even realise that they’re in competition with you most of the time. i’m seeing that you see the signs but you’re such a pure person that you don’t expect others to be like that. operating with a jealously competitive mindset is alien to you.

some of you may even have people psychically or spiritually attacking you, but their energy is weak af against you. Ra (the sun god) may be someone who you’d like to look into. you’re heavily connected to him and he defends you like no other, alongside your spirit guides and ancestors. these people’s witchcraft or evil eye doesn’t even touch you. i’m hearing that you’re covered by God’s protection. a lot of these people actually get extremely scared when they send some bs your way because it immediately comes back to them and causes problems in their lives. they know that it’s their karma for even attempting to direct negativity your way. this results in people who do this being intimidated by you. and since i’m picking up on group energy from these hating bitches, you could even have a whole coven who’ve tried to put some sort of black magic onto you and they STILL couldn’t affect you. weak as hell 😭

and yk what? i’m seeing that after all of the bs that they put you through after switching up on you, or randomly attacking you out of jealousy, you’re able to transmute that feeling of betrayal into something positive. i’m hearing that you guys literally look back and laugh at these situations, turning it into a positive learning lesson. often times, you see these people fighting amongst themselves after they try you. your ancestors/spirit guides are to thank for that lmaoo.

you guys are peaceful people until your peace is disturbed. and you STILL come out on top. i also feel like you guys don’t hold grudges when you could if you wanted to since you’d have every right to. any expectations put onto you, you fight off. you’re not letting anybody impose on who you should be, your dreams and aspirations, and your purpose. you know exactly who you are. i fw you, pile 2. keep doing whatever you’re doing because it’s getting you far in life.

also, a little message from your higher self;

they want to applause you for learning how to heal yourself. again, people are jealous of this. people who try to find healing in areas of life that won’t be healing for them - money, superficial relationships or relationships built on trauma bonding, drugs even. they’re mad because they feel like they don’t know how to put themselves back together but you do.

they’re also envious of your ability to remotely view situations (seeing things from a higher perspective). you’re very connected to your higher self and you have a very strong sense of faith. your way of living life might be copied by others. but this obviously doesn’t work for them because your healing processes and techniques all come together for YOU, like your own personal healing project. you’ve probably taken multiple aspects of psychology, religion, spirituality, etc, and designed your own belief system to follow. and clearly it’s working for you because it was made for you, by you. not these other people. they could’ve learned from you but they expected you to baby them and hold their hand every step of the way while they didn’t do anything to help themselves.

focusing on your healing is not a bad thing. it’s actually the best thing for you to do. don’t feel like you should’ve stuck around or not put in boundaries because they “needed your help”. they wanted your help (mainly for their own selfish reasons without giving anything back) but they need to help themselves. trying to help them is like walking down a dirt road, holding their hand as they lay on the floor. you’d have to drag them to get them to that healing point, slowing down your healing process immensely. that’s not your problem. and thank god these people aren’t your problem anymore. 💛

• pile 3 • 🧋🧋🧋🧋🧋🧋🧋🧋

hi, pile 3, welcome to your reading ☺️

i see that you guys help a whole lot of people. you create opportunities for others through teaching them valuable knowledge. and this knowledge helps people to protect themselves from really bad situations or dangerous people. i’m picking up on advocates who help people out of domestically abusive situations, or who help children to escape from abusive homes. this could be something as simple as what you preach online, but it really gives people a lot of precious knowledge that helps to keep them safe.

i’m also seeing that a lot of you have created opportunities for yourself and others to level up in something. i’m mainly seeing a business but it doesn’t have to be. whatever this structure is, you really help people climb the ladder to something. you guys could be financial advisors of some sort.

some of you are teachers who teach children in a really valuable way. i feel like you leave none of the children in your classes out, in terms of catering to multiple different learning styles.

there’s a major message about you surpassing what others would see as abundance. perhaps you came from a family full of wealth or privilege in some way, but i feel like you guys have decided to actually take steps to build something for yourself without the help of others. despite some of you being people from privileged backgrounds, you aren’t okay with just living off of another’s abundance, even if it is family’s. you still want to make a name for yourself. i’m even seeing a lot of you guys using your abundance for charities and for those in need.

there’s just a huge humanitarian vibe with this pile.

to bring it back to you personally, the way that you know how to escape situations unscathed is admirable. your boundaries are strong and firm at this point of your life, and you’ve created a very protected space for yourself.

you also jump at the chance to take opportunities that i honestly feel like most people wouldn’t if they were in a comfortable space like you, but you don’t settle for comfortability 😂 again, financially, i’m picking up on a lot of abundance around you, but you’re willing to create your own.

a lot of you are also extremely loving and caring towards children. children see you as someone who they can learn a lot from. kids might ask you a lot of questions incessantly for this reason, even if they usually don’t do that with others 😂

you know how to make people feel comfortable. your whole energy gives off “stability” and you’re willing to lend a helping hand to those who need it. even if you’re not financially abundant, this abundance could pertain to the abundance you have within yourself. i feel like you’ve established yourself and who you are - another reason why younger people look up to you. you show people the way to pure, genuine acceptance of themselves, or their life circumstances while also showing them how to overcome a lot of expectations. particularly from traditions. because that’s what you’ve had to do.

a lot of you may not have a lot of money, but you’ve surpassed the attachment that many have to currency. you understand that there is more to life than just work. your energy is expansive - particularly your mind - and i feel like a lot of you have escaped from the tradition of living to work. i’m even hearing that you’ve escaped the rat race, so a lot of you could definitely have your own business.

if that’s the case, then your business partners and employees are happy working with you. again, you provide a comfortable environment in the workspace and genuinely care about elevating people to your level. you have this mindset of “we can all win” and i love that.

you also know how to talk people through their pain. people who have kind of shut themselves off from others due to being hurt so many times. i’m hearing that you’re the chip on their shoulder that helps them navigate whatever they’re going through in life. you could be counsellors, therapists, or people who have the knowledge to counsel people due to you studying psychology and human behaviour and being a therapist to yourself. that’s impressive, pile 3. you should be proud of yourself for that.

i’m also seeing that you listen to your intuition more than your fear, and you teach other people to do the same. you could have sagittarius in your chart because i’m really feeling a teacher type of energy from you guys. naturally. your south node could be in sagittarius or in the 9th house in your astrological birth chart. or you have sag/9th house placements.

to sum this up, you sacrifice your comforts in life to help others, and that’s what’s admirable af about you. because there are plenty of people who wouldn’t do that 💛

[lenisoldi]

Part one and Genes reaction

Masterlist

!TW!: Self harming!

BoB boys reaction to your self haring (part2)

Nix:

Lewis Nixon sat comfortably in the worn-out leather armchair, sipping on his Vat 69 whiskey. The dimly lit room was filled with the scent of old books and wood varnish, giving it a familiar and cozy atmosphere. The only sound breaking the silence was the occasional ticking of the grandfather clock in the corner. He glanced over at you, noticing something unusual. Your sleeve was rolled up higher than normal, revealing marks on your arm. Lewis' heart skipped a beat as realization set in. "Darling," he said, setting his glass down carefully on the side table, "What's going on with your arm? Those don't look like accidental cuts." He leaned forward, brow furrowed with concern, genuine care evident in his brown eyes. He swallowed hard, fighting the urge to take another sip of his whiskey as he studied your expression, trying to read your emotions. His own experiences had taught him that sometimes people needed someone to reach out, someone who cared. "Listen," he continued, his voice gentle but firm, "I've seen things like that before. If you're going through something tough, I'd like to help if I can, sweetheart." He paused, letting the words sink in before adding, "We're in this together, after all." His hand absently stroked the head of his Dachshund, lying faithfully by his side, seeking comfort in the familiar touch as much as offering it. Lewis knew that opening up wasn't easy, especially when you've been carrying a burden for so long, but he hoped that his concern and understanding would encourage you to share what was troubling you. Seeing the distress on your face, Lewis couldn't help but feel a pang of empathy. He knew all too well how heavy life's burdens could become, and the unhealthy ways people coped with them. He got up from his armchair, glass forgotten, and approached you cautiously, not wanting to overwhelm you. Crouching down to meet your gaze, he reached out a hand, stopping just short of touching your arm. "I've been where you are," he admitted softly, his eyes reflecting a mixture of pain and sincerity. "It's not easy, but there are better ways to handle it, I promise." The Dachshund at his feet whined softly and looked up at the both of you before laying his head on your lap, which made you smile. Lew smiled as well and kissed your forehead. "Just speak to me the next time you feel alone or overwhelmed, alright, baby?" He said and you nodded.

Bull:

Bull's eyes widened as he noticed the faint scars hidden under your sweatshirt while you both were sitting together at the edge of the sun-kissed ranch, the soft hum of cattle in the distance, and the rustling of nearby trees playing a melancholic symphony. His heart sank like a stone in his chest as he took in the sight, his gentle nature taking over his usually jovial demeanor. With his strong yet tender hands, he carefully placed one on top of yours, gently pulling it closer for a better look. His face contorted into a mask of worry and concern, the lines on his forehead deepening. "What happened here, darlin'? Why are you hurting yourself?" Bull's surroundings were typically ones of comfort and serenity, the vast Arkansas ranch that he called home. The warm, earthy scent of the cattle mixed with the crisp aroma of freshly cut grass painted a picture of a simple life filled with love and hard work. His ranch hands were off in the distance, tending to their daily chores, while the sun dipped low behind the horizon, casting long shadows across the land. But at that moment, none of that mattered. All Bull could see was the pain etched into your delicate skin, and he wanted nothing more than to take it all away.

Tab:

Floyd Talbert, leaning against the bar in his favorite whiskey joint, caught a glimpse of something that didn't sit right. The dim lights illuminated the scars on your wrists as you nervously fiddled with the straw in your drink. His heart sank, and he swallowed the lump forming in his throat. He pushed off the bar, setting his half-empty glass down with a gentle thud, and made his way over to you. "Hey, sweetie," he started, trying to sound casual as he took a seat beside you, his eyes lingering on the marks that marred your skin. "What's going on there?" He asked, nodding towards your wrists. His voice was laced with genuine concern, softening the usual rough edges that came with his playboy persona. He reached out to gently grasp your wrist, pulling it closer so he could see better. His thumb traced one of the scars absentmindedly, trying to understand the pain you must have been going through. Why would she hurt herself like this? He thought, feeling a pang of guilt for not having noticed sooner. His German Shepherd, Trigger, lied next to the both of you, watching you. In the smoky haze of the bar, Bunny's gaze never left your face as you spoke. His usually charming smile faltered, replaced by a look of deep worry. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees, as he processed your words. His fingers drummed an uneven rhythm against his leg, betraying the turmoil within him. "Shit, kiddo," he finally muttered, running a hand through his hair. He paused, struggling to find the right words before continuing, "Look, I ain't gonna lie. I'm no expert on this sort of thing, but... you can always talk to me, got that?" His voice was gruff but sincere. He looked around the bar, then back at you, "Let's get out of here, yeah? Some fresh air might do us both some good." He rose to his feet, offering you a hand up, his grip firm but gentle.

Renee: (A/N: Btw when u guys find any fanfics of Renee, TAG ME PLS!!!)

The room was dimly lit, casting soft shadows across the floor. The walls were painted a calming pastel blue, adorned with pictures of blooming flowers and pictures of the two of you together. Her eyes fell upon your arm, the concealed marks were no longer hidden, and her heart skipped a beat. The warmth in her gaze turned to concern as she knelt down beside you on the plush carpet. "Sweetheart," she whispered, her voice filled with compassion and worry, "What happened here?" Her delicate fingers gently traced the edges of your sleeve, careful not to cause any pain. Renee was suddenly struck by the harsh reality that someone she cherished so deeply was hurting themselves. At that moment, her entire world seemed to shift, and her only desire was to alleviate your suffering. She carefully pulled back your sleeve, revealing the pain etched into your skin. Renee's eyes welled up with tears, but she fought them back, not wanting to add to your distress. Instead, she offered a tender smile, her voice steady and soothing. "Oh, my love," she said softly, "Why didn't you tell me?" The room seemed to hold its breath as she gently cradled your arm in her hands, her thumb lightly tracing over the marks. The concern etched deep within her heart was evident in her every touch and word. The young nurse wanted nothing more than to take away your pain and heal the wounds, both physical and emotional. Her thoughts raced as she tried to find the right words to express her feelings without overwhelming you. "We'll get through this together," she reassured, her voice a gentle melody in the quiet room. "You don't have to face this alone anymore."

[sunshineluverr]

You are my comfort • kth •

Pairing : Taehyun x Reader

Genre : Fluff, hurt/comfort

Word count : 2k

Warnings : Angst, Depressive thoughts, Atychiphobia

Summary : You just found out that you have failed one of your exams. So you call your boyfriend Taehyun to help comfort you but...

◈ 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 ◈

"Hello?"

The warm sound of his voice left you with even more desire than you expected, still you're trying to compose yourself here.

"Taehyun...what are you doing?"

"I'm actually really busy right now, I have a lot of work to finish up here it'll probably take me long, maybe even after midnight"

"Oh..uh" you stammer unable to confess the reason you called

"Is everything alright? Why did you call? Are you okay?" The concern was obvious in his voice, breaking you even more and needing him even more. But you just heard about how busy he is, you could not bare the thought of requesting his time and it'll just become another chore for him in his busy schedule. Of course he loves you, but with darkness fogging your mind, all you could think of was being an unnecessary burden if you asked for help.

So all you could react was your voice cracking up as you try to mutter up a lie.

"Uh not at all! I just wanted to know what you were doing for the day since you didn't respond to any of my texts"

"Yes, so now you know. But are you sure there's nothing else?"

"Nope! Good luck with your on-going tasks!"

"Okay... Bye, and please if you ever-" *beep*

You did not realise the fact that he was adding more at the end before you were quick to hung up on him.

Well that's that then. The only light in this moment of darkness seemed to be also fading. What a stupid analogy, you thought and yet it felt exactly that way.

It is a bit abnormal to not ask for help from any other dear friend or family member if your boyfriend isn't free but you couldn't help it. You'd embrace any insanity if it means you'd admit that Taehyun is your comfort, your only comfort.

Right now, all you could think of was being in his warm arms, wrapping you around to hold you close as you wept and wept in his chest and he would patiently listen to your rants, that's just how Taehyun is. He's perfect when it comes to comforting, because he listens so well. He will not interrupt and begin to start teaching ways to deal with the problem like any other person likely does. He just listens with full attention.

But here you are, curling up into a lifeless pillow stained wet with fresh tears, lost in somewhat of a daydream that the soft cotton article was your precious boyfriend.

Of course that delusion isn't the only painful thought bothering your mind, as your fears and insecurities began to tangle in your mind because of the failure you had to face today.

Your wallowing that went on for what felt like hours, was rudely interrupted by the loud sound of your doorbell ringing through your apartment. You groan trying your best to ignore whoever is the awaiting person on the other side of the door. But they ring again, and again and it pokes your anger that you are forced to attend to the door after all.

You finally managed to get up from your cold yet comfortable bed, dragging your feet to the get to your front door. You assume it's probably the building maintenance guy or maybe some Amazon delivery you've long forgotten about ordering, because you really weren't expecting anybody right now.

You open the door with probably the worst, annoyed expression on your face. But it immediately shifts to a shocked one when your eyes come in veiw with the person standing in front of you at the door.

It was Taehyun.

You feel a wave of emotions hitting you, as he just stood there without a word. But you could feel your heart beat faster at the thought of finally seeing him again. You feel a slight excitement begin to stir in you.

"T-taehyun...what are you-" He interrupts you as he bumps into your shoulder, barging into your home. You're left still as he intrudes, quickly making his into the kitchen.

He rather aggressively opens the freezer door and stuffs a bunch of items inside that he had brought with him in the little brown bag he was holding.

All you could do was watch him, completely perplexed at what's going on right now.

When he was done, he began practically marching back to you. He shut the door that was left hung open and turned to face you. You notice how his face is scrunched up into a frown before suddenly he grabs your shoulder, making you look at him, eyes still wide from shock.

"You really thought I wouldn't notice?" Taehyun finally breaks the silence, starting off with an angry tone.

"What do you mean...?" You ask in a low voice, genuinely confused what he's so worked up about.

"Really?" He scoffs "Did you really think I wouldn't notice the super obvious sobbing coming from you when you called me. You're a really bad liar you know?"

You gasp, unable to comprehend the fact that Taehyun showed up just because he heard you cry. Your heart feels warm at the thought and you couldn't help a small smile pull at your lips.

Taehyun sighs before bringing his arms to wrap you around into a hug. Finally.

You feel yourself slowly melting into his soft touch as he moves his hand to lightly pat at your back.

"You got me so worried you know? Please don't lie to me next time" He huffs out, still holding you tight, voice quite and soothing.

"I'm sorry tyun... But are you sure this is okay? You being here? What about your work?" You ask as you couldn't help but worry for his sake even when you need him so much.

He slightly pulls apart to meet your eyes. "It's okay. I've dealt with it so you don't need to worry. This is much more important." He brings a hand to cup your cheek and you willingly rest your face in his palms.

"Now, what's got my sweet angel so gloomy?" He asks, making your heart flutter with the nickname and the way his voice is filled with so much care and love for you.

You bury your face in his chest as it takes a little hesitation to admit the reason for being sad.

"I..." You trail off, still unable to describe something you feel so ashamed about.

"It's okay, take your time." He brings a hand to caress at your head. And maybe it was his comforting but you're finally able to spill it out.

"I got my report card today and I.... failed" you let out a sigh as you feel slight warmth creep up your face, feeling like crying again.

"Hmm.." Taehyun doesn't respond much, still placing gentle pats on your head.

"Come with me." He pulls apart from the embrace and takes your wrist, lightly pulling on it for you to follow him.

He takes you to the couch and sits on it, so you also sit next to him, thinking he probably wanted to take a seat.

But he clicks his tongue and says  "No, you lie down" as if he's pointing out the obvious but you're only more confused.

"Huh? But then there won't be enough space to-"

You're interrupted by him suddenly grabbing hold on top of your head so strong, that he drags your entire body to lay on the couch, placing your head in his lap.

You look at him, blinking your eyes in the surprise at the small smile of his lopsided face that fits in your veiw.

"Really?" You ask, stating the obvious of the position he wants you to be in.

"Yes really."

So you adjust yourself to get more comfortable and lean in more of your weight in his lap. Strangely his firm and muscular thighs were feeling rather comfortable just like any other pillow or actually even better than that.

He leaned down to place a kiss on your forehead, dusting your cheeks with a red hue and naturally a smile appears at your lips. He starts caressing your head again, lightly playing with the strands of your hair.

He presses down a thumb on your aching temples and you can't help but let out a relaxed sigh. He works his fingers firmly between your eyebrows, massaging out the pain you were bearing with all day.

He squeezed and rubbed all over your forehead to the bridge of your nose, for quite a while, and almost lulling you to fall asleep.

He relaxed his movements, now gently tracing every inch of your skin on your face and stopping over your lips. He leans down to place a soft peck on them, making you finally open your eyes to see his face again.

His eyebrows are slightly tilted in worry "Your eyes are so puffy, did you really cry so much? All alone?"

"Yeah... I'm sorry, I should've told you sooner right?"

"Don't apologise. Yes you should've but it's okay, I'm here now. If you want to cry more, you can, I'll be here through all of it"

His words make you feel so warm. "I surprisingly don't, probably because the best boyfriend in the world has made my worries all fade away" you made him smile brightly with your compliment.

"Well then, do you want to rant about it?"

You shift your weight to the side and move in closer to him, wrapping your arms around his torso and pressing your nose against his abdomen.

"Ah I don't know tyun. It really sucks, it really does"

"Hmm I know"

"I really did study so hard and yet.." as you begin to vent, you feel the tears threatening your eyes again, even if you really didn't feel like crying any more.

"You did, you worked very hard. I'm always proud of you"

"But I still failed.."

"Love, if you don't mind me asking, what subject was it?"

"Ugh, It was Calculations..."

"Oh? The one with that grouchy professor?"

"Yes that's the one. God I hate that class so much"

"Me too, I hate it because it caused my angel so much distress. I bet he failed you on purpose too. That sick old man is probably projecting his crap on the poor students, and it's worse if he does it on you."

You burst out into a fit of giggles at his "over- protective boyfriend mode", turning to look at his face again.

"You really think he would do that Taehyun?"

"I don't know, but I know that you definitely deserve more. You work so hard."

You laugh more "Thanks babe but I'm genuinely bad at calculations"

"Well then...do you want me to tutor you?"

You get up from his lap to look at him directly in the eye. "You can do that?"

"Yeah well, I'm kind of good in math and stuff so if you want..."

"But you're so busy! Are you sure you can fit that in your schedule?"

"Yeah, I can make time if it's to help you"

"Oh my gosh, yes please! It will help me so much Taehyun! Thank you!" You immediately grasp him into a tight hug, smiling against his neck.

You've always done extremely well with any sort of personal guidance when it comes to studying, it really helps to have an assistance for when you're stuck or have a doubt. So his offer was definitely something to be excited about.

"Taehyun, you won't be strict with me right?" You ask jokingly.

"I mean, if it becomes necessary then.." He smirks to tease you.

"No! I only want gentle and sweet Taehyun please!" You pout.

He laughs at your cuteness "Alright alright" he placed a peck on your pouty lips. "Anything for you"

You blush at his gesture. He truly is the best boyfriend ever. You look at him in awe as your heart swells for the love and adoration you have for him. It's because of him, you can smile today, it's because of him you can smile on any day.

You return the kiss into a longer one, it's soft, sweet and warm.

He pulls apart to give you a smile. "There's a thing I forgot to mention"

"What is it tyun?" You cup his face.

"I bought a tub of ice cream for you, it's your comfort food after all."

You gasp and squeeze him into another hug "Kang Taehyun I love you too much!"

◈ 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 𝅒 𝅓 ◈

A/n : Thank you so much for reading so far if you did and I hope you enjoyed it!

Slight vent warning : I really wanted to post something cheerful for all members for txt day (which is today so happy anniversary to them and moa!) But I've been super stressed and busy with my exam that I am unable to write or draw or do anything creative :((( still I was able to write this short comfort tyun fic because it's kind of based on my own emotions lollol ANYWAYYYSSSS comments, criticism and feedback are highly appreciated! <33

[wheredostarsgowhenyoudie]

Once upon a Saturday midnight atop the Eiffel Tower...

Chat (looking sad, feeding cats and singing): Little kitty on a roof, all alone without his lady...

LB (yoyos her way down): Chat? You rang, Kitty? What's going on? Is there an akuma?

Chat: (mumbles)

LB (pauses): Are you kidding me!!? Kitty, you are the most loved cat in Paris!

Chat (sighs): I know m'lady. Sometimes, I find it easier to be cat than human.

LB: What?

Chat (shrugs): It's just that real life is different, you know? I know maybe it's just my life that's weird, but I find that people give me more time and attention as Chat. As Ad- (*coughs*), I mean, when I'm the person outside the mask, my father rarely gives me his time. He just piles me schedule up with chores and showers me with gifts but--

LB: (just stares)

LB: What about friends, kitty? Don't you have friends to hang out with?

Chat: I do! And they're great, but they all see the glamour and think my life is awesome. Like, just last month, my father arranged a global tour and so I was absent from school. My friends were so excited and I couldn't crash their illusion, you know?

LB: (starts to frown, realizing the story feels familiar)

LB: All of them?

Chat: (smiles sadly)

Chat: Except one. There is one girl... I swear she's just like you that if I didn't know any better, I'd believe she's you outside the mask. I even call her our Everyday Ladybug just because she's that great. She's always helping, and when she does, you can tell she isn't doing it for show. She goes out of her way for friends and even strangers... even for me... but... I don't want to keep burdening her with my life. I know she's busy and has a life and I--

LB: What's her name?

Chat: (freezes)

Chat (starts panicking): What? My lady, you know I can't- my identity- I mean, you said I shouldn't hint-

LB: Chat Noir.

Chat: (looks up, surprised to see his lady tearing up)

LB: (lifts a hand to hold her partner's cheek)

Chat: Bug? Why are you-

LB: (drags Chat to a hug, he squeaks)

LB: You stupid cat! Bold of you to assume I wouldn't drop anything and everything if you need me.

Chat: My lady?

LB: Chat Noir... or should I call you...Adrien?

[terrence-silver]

How would all eras of Terry react to looking after a baby? Not his own, but a family member’s baby that has been put in the care of Terry and beloved for a few days

― A transition between a post-Vietnam returning veteran being universally deemed a 'baby killer' and being saddled with the task of looking after someone else's infant can be a weird (and ironic) one and yes --- Twig, or a young Terry, feels weird and just as ironic indeed. Somewhat out of his element. From one end, he's still at that age where he could easily be that baby's older sibling (or babysitter) if you squint, and yet, burdened with so much life experience and trauma where he might feel infinitely older and oddly disconnected from youth (and even society, to an extent) as a whole. Doesn't mean he's bad at the chore of looking after a kid. Oh, he's actually surprisingly good. Why? Because he fears failure and failing others to a pathological level. He fears being at fault of something befalling that baby once it is given to him to look after, regardless how miniscule. He fears losing control; of the situation. Of his ability to be reliable. Trustworthy. Strong enough to take care of someone weaker for a change, instead of someone else taking care of him. Fears loss of control in whatever capacity. He fears adding to the weight of the survivor's guilt and guilt in general he already suffers from. He's a perfectionist too. He needs to be the best at any task directed his way because ego demands it. And so? Twig might be quite apt at this. To the point he might surprise himself. No, in fact, not everything he touches immediately falls apart and results in ruin. Quite the contrary.

― That baby, child, infant or toddler might not even want to go home after time spent in Terry's care back in the 80's? Why? Because, my god, it is so damn fun. It is a period of time where everything is allowed. Mischief is encouraged. Corruptive influences subtly enacted. All rules, other than Terry's own rules, go flying out the window, so for the time being, a kid would get the impression that the whole world is an elaborate playground. And it is. Terry Silver says it is, so it must be true, right? As a result, a toddler might grow immensely fond of him in no time at all, simply because he's a deliberate and gleeful enabler and he tends to grant people experiences they might not be able to have otherwise to win them over to his side. Wanna be chauffeured in a Bentley and sit on the front seat like an adult? Ever flew in a real helicopter? How about a waiting staff of people for playmates, paid to entertain you, all day, every day? Cake, for breakfast, dinner and supper, made by a Michelin star private chef? Thing is, that toddler gets the Richie Rich treatment while under Terry Silver's care, so reasonably, being parted from Terry could subjectively feel like a dreamworld is being ripped away from their tiny baby hands once it is time to go home and yeah, it would be a lie if we said Terry didn't do this on purpose, ensuring he'll be liked more than the parents (and seem infinitely better by comparison) purely because he can and because he's out to win. Whatever the situation.

― Is there such a thing as a man experiencing 'Empty Nest Syndrome' even when one's nest was never full in the first place? Because, old man Terry certainly does. Old man Terry would, when he's given the task of looking after any child that isn't his. And see, that is immediately the first thought that crosses his mind --- why isn't the child his? Why can't he have something like this, of his own flesh and blood and bone? Something that belongs to him in the literal sense? Something or someone that isn't just temporarily here until it won't be anymore? Isn't it profoundly unfair? Anger-inducing? Isn't it some major bullshit? He has all the resources in the world, all the power, all the money, everything to offer, and yet he's here, someone else's kid in tow. If that child was his, he'd never, ever allow someone else to look after them, away from sight, even for a moment, savoring every moment with them like it could be his last. Yet, for all his devotion and loyalty, he's the one without biological legacy. Yeah, man's pissed off. Possibly peeved. Possibly depressed. Possibly glass in hand, pouring himself some liquor, needing to numb the pain, feeling all the weight of all his regrets and frustrations come to the surface, getting really deeply into his own feelings regarding the entire affair as a whole. If he doesn't have his own progeny, he'll usurp, cajole and win over to his side whoever and whatever he can to fill the hollow.

[aiyumiyeou]

yumi interacting with the other ninja? how would he?

also I love ur art ❤️

AHHH thank you for asking this anon so i can openly brainrot ahwkdhsk

adding a read more simply because i want to ramble and because i'm a little shyy and thank you so much i'm so happy people enjoy my art >//<

starting off with some info: yumi's 'elemental' power of yāojing (fairy) is influenced heavily by empathy & his OWN feelings towards things (which more or less can be helpful..? if he's empathetic enough to feel for more than himself if that makes sense)

his powers grow when he eats the livelihood (counted in years.. etc. if yumi hit a person with his elemental powers he just stole 2 years off their life hfkfjdk) and emotions of people as well.

older yumi just has different physical features (taller, around kai's height by the end? at least in my head) with gumiho features like fox ears and a pretty silky tail

kai: younger yumi was the shyest with kai.. he prob had one of those mini kid crushes on him but as yumi grew older he acknowledged kai as lloyd's older brother who he likes to tease way too much. in general they're really competitive but have a comfortable-silence kind of friendship

cole: best older brother in the world to yumi. [head in hands] first ninja to interact with yumi after wu takes in yumi first! cole p much redefined what a good older sibling is supposed to be like and yumi easily has separation anxiety from him c': in general they are super funny and unserious tgt in contrast to all the angst they probably experience..

jay: yumi loves to listen to jay's rambles but he gets the most confused/overstimulated from the lightning ninja's emotions & loudness combined. all in all despite jay using up yumi's social battery the faster, he really likes jay's versatility and love life issues (yuyu is def a romantic & resident gossip horder, which he will share with jay on the promise he doesn't spill any secrets)

zane: yumi always appreciated zane's patience and tolerability & sense in situations but similar to kai they have that sweet but silent kind of relationship! put yumi and zane together in a kitchen and some puppy eyes and suddenly dinner is all high quality meat dishes.. yumi always tries to help zane out with chores they are both avid cleaners.

nya: yumi loves nya's company. before he aged up he always went to her when yumi felt both of them being excluded from the team and she would play with yumi's hair. yumi vents to nya the easiest and he tends to go wild in his whining whenever helping the water nya fix up her mechanics. they have a really cute bond.. nya is 2nd place for best older sibling in yumi's heart

lloyd: Ahhh. where do i begin. yumi has the strongest bond with lloyd which ends up with a lot of teaming up, oblivious flirting, and craving spending time with the green ninja the most. when they were younger they were half friends half rivals (a lot of tension in general..) but yumi and lloyd are the type to like and trust each other so much that it also causes problems (ex. lloyd keeping his emotions from yumi to not burden him and yumi stubbornly pushing away lloyd to prevent becoming a weakness to him)

[rvtravellife]

6 Best RV Dishwashers to Make Cleanup Easier

by Paige Breedon When you're enjoying your RV, the last thing on your mind should be cleaning dishes..... When you think of life on the road, convenience is vital. Living in an RV provides a unique mix of adventure and comfort, but minimizing the hassle of daily tasks, especially kitchen chores, is essential. One aspect that often gets overlooked is dishwashing. Doing dishes by hand can be time-consuming and inefficient, especially when you're on vacation or living full-time in your RV. This is where the RV dishwasher comes into play, making it easier to manage your kitchen duties while enjoying the outdoors. In this guide, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of adding a dishwasher to your RV, discuss the top RV dishwasher models available, and provide useful tips on installation and maintenance. Read on if you’ve been on the fence about adding this little luxury to your RV. Why Add a Dishwasher to Your RV? RV dishwasher Convenience An RV dishwasher significantly reduces the time and effort spent cleaning up after meals. Whether you're a full-time RVer or just someone who enjoys extended road trips, washing dishes by hand can quickly feel like a chore. An RV dishwasher can take this burden off your plate (literally) and give you more time to relax. I remember one trip where my family and I spent too much time scrubbing pots and pans after each meal. Once we added a dishwasher, it transformed our kitchen routine. Suddenly, we had more time to enjoy the campground, and mealtimes became less stressful. It's surprising how much a small appliance can change your experience on the road. Water Efficiency Many newer models are designed to be water-efficient. Some dishwashers can use less water than handwashing, considering how much water is used when rinsing and washing dishes in the sink. This is especially important for dry camping or boondocking, where water conservation is critical. Space Optimization Contrary to what some people believe, an RV dishwasher doesn’t need much extra space. Several models are designed to be compact and fit perfectly into the RV’s limited space. Many portable or countertop models can easily fit into smaller kitchens without extensive remodeling. Energy Use Considerations Energy is another important factor. With the advancement of solar power systems for RVs, dishwashers can now run efficiently even when you're off-grid. Many RV dishwashers are designed with low power consumption, making them compatible with most RV power setups, including solar-powered systems..... Read More... Read the full article

[simpleamericanboy101]

Is it a good idea to have one child cleaning up the house while parents or the rest of the family don't help out?

It's generally not a good idea to have only one child responsible for cleaning up the house while the rest of the family, including parents, do not help. This approach can lead to feelings of resentment and unfairness. It’s important for household chores to be shared responsibilities to promote a sense of teamwork, equality, and responsibility among all family members. Everyone contributing to household tasks helps build valuable life skills, fosters cooperation, and creates a more harmonious living environment.

How bad can it cost the child?

Having one child bear the sole responsibility of cleaning the house while others do not help can have several negative consequences:

1. **Resentment and Frustration**: The child may feel resentful and frustrated due to the perceived unfairness. This can lead to strained family relationships and a sense of isolation.

2. **Overwhelm and Stress**: Managing household chores alone can be overwhelming, especially if the tasks are numerous or difficult. This added stress can affect the child's mental and emotional well-being.

3. **Negative Self-Esteem**: The child might develop a negative self-image, feeling undervalued or taken for granted. They might also believe their worth is tied to their productivity rather than their intrinsic value.

4. **Impact on Academics and Social Life**: Excessive household responsibilities can take time away from studying, extracurricular activities, and socializing with peers, potentially impacting the child's academic performance and social development.

5. **Lack of Life Skills for Other Family Members**: When only one child is responsible for chores, other family members miss out on learning essential life skills and developing a sense of responsibility and independence.

6. **Burnout**: Over time, the child might experience burnout, leading to physical and emotional exhaustion. This can have long-term effects on their overall well-being.

For a more positive and balanced approach, it's essential to distribute household chores among all family members, fostering a cooperative and supportive environment.

What's the word that can describe this?

The situation where one child is burdened with household chores while others, including parents, do not help can be described as "unfair." More specifically, it can be labeled as "exploitation," "inequity," or "unjust." If it involves the parents placing excessive responsibilities on the child without support, it might also be referred to as "parentification," where a child is forced to take on the role and responsibilities of an adult.

Does it cause Depression or any type of issue that can hurt your mental health?

Yes, this situation can potentially contribute to depression in the child. When a child is overburdened with responsibilities and feels isolated, unappreciated, or overwhelmed, it can lead to a range of emotional and psychological issues, including depression. Key factors include:

1. **Chronic Stress**: Consistent, high levels of stress from managing household chores alone can contribute to depressive symptoms.

2. **Feelings of Worthlessness**: If the child feels unappreciated or that their efforts are taken for granted, it can harm their self-esteem and sense of self-worth.

3. **Social Isolation**: Excessive responsibilities can limit the child’s time for social interactions, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation.

4. **Lack of Support**: Without adequate support and recognition from family members, the child might feel emotionally neglected, exacerbating feelings of depression.

It's important to address such issues early by ensuring a fair distribution of responsibilities and providing emotional support and recognition to the child.

If you have a child, please don't let them suffer because of the lack of your responsibility.

[radiantcleaning]

Bring Your Home to Life with Marlborough MA's House Cleaning Service

In the bustling town of Marlborough, Massachusetts, life moves at a brisk pace. Whether you're a busy professional, a parent juggling multiple responsibilities or simply someone who values a clean and welcoming home, finding the time and energy to keep your living space pristine can be a challenge. That's where Marlborough MA's house cleaning service comes to the rescue, helping you transform your house into a vibrant and inviting sanctuary. In this blog, we'll explore how these dedicated professionals can bring your home to life, giving you the freedom to enjoy a sparkling, stress-free environment.

Professional Expertise

Home cleaning service Marlborough ma is staffed by a team of skilled and experienced professionals who take pride in their work. They understand that every home is unique and has its own cleaning needs. Whether you have a modest apartment or a spacious family house, these experts are equipped to handle the task. Their attention to detail ensures that no corner is left untouched, leaving your home spotless and refreshed.

Tailored Cleaning Plans

One of the key advantages of hiring a house cleaning service in Marlborough is the ability to customize your cleaning plan. These professionals work closely with you to understand your specific requirements and preferences. Whether you need a one-time deep cleaning, regular maintenance, or specialized cleaning for a special occasion, they can create a plan that suits your needs and budget. This tailored approach ensures that your home receives the care and attention it deserves.

Time and Energy Savings

Life in Marlborough can be demanding, with work, family, and social commitments taking up most of your time and energy. Cleaning your home can often feel like an added burden. By enlisting the help of a house cleaning service, you can free up valuable hours that you can spend on activities you truly enjoy. Imagine coming home to a freshly cleaned space, allowing you to relax and recharge without the stress of household chores.

Health and Well-being

A clean home isn't just visually pleasing; it also contributes to your overall health and well-being. Dust, allergens, and bacteria can accumulate in your living spaces, potentially causing respiratory issues and allergies. Marlborough MA's house cleaning services use high-quality cleaning products and techniques to ensure that your home is not only clean but also healthy. You and your family can breathe easier knowing that your indoor environment is free from pollutants.

Enhanced Home Aesthetics

A clean and organized home is a beautiful home. When you choose Marlborough's house cleaning service, you'll be amazed at how a clutter-free, spotless environment can transform the aesthetics of your living space. Every surface, from floors to countertops, will gleam with cleanliness. This improved visual appeal can boost your mood and create a more inviting atmosphere for both residents and guests.

Increased Property Value

If you're a homeowner in Marlborough, maintaining the cleanliness of your property is not only about personal comfort but also about preserving its value. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent the deterioration of your home's surfaces and fixtures. When you decide to sell or rent your property in the future, a well-maintained and clean home will have a higher market value and attract more potential buyers or tenants.

House cleaning service Waltham ma is more than just a convenience; it's an investment in your quality of life. By entrusting your home to skilled professionals who are dedicated to providing top-notch cleaning services, you can enjoy a cleaner, healthier, and more aesthetically pleasing living environment. With customized cleaning plans, you have the flexibility to choose the services that best suit your needs and schedule. Say goodbye to the stress of household chores and bring your home to life with the help of Marlborough's trusted house cleaning service. Experience the freedom to enjoy your home without the hassle of cleaning – it's time to live life to the fullest in Marlborough, Massachusetts.

[resolvebound]

Perhaps it was the darkness outside, and the warm glow of soft lighting inside, that lent itself towards it feeling as if it was much later in the day than it really was. Or maybe it was the way he was seated on the floor, and she was snuggled beneath a blanket, that gave the impression of late-night conversations, of quietly shared thoughts, and the intimacy of being the only people awake while the rest of the world slumbered. It was times like that which often led to deep conversations, a feeling of connection, yet he had to admit it such sleepover-esque situations were few and far between for him. Any deep and meaningfuls he’d had over the years had been with Cana or Loke (and typically involved a fair amount of alcohol beforehand).

He was aware in the moment now, that somehow, without liquor to shield himself or lower defences, he was…okay with the turns his conversation with Evergreen was taking. Even if some of the points raised had him questioning himself, and there were things he didn’t wish to burden her with, things he avoided, she was…someone he was becoming more comfortable with, someone who would understand. He…liked talking with her like this.

A tad uneasy about that little revelation, he focused on watching the steady flames within the fireplace and waiting for Evergreen’s reply. The unintentional tension in his expression eased as she spoke, smoothed away by the touch of a faint smile. He wondered then, if Evergreen’s mother had been anything like the teacher’s he’d had in school back in his hometown. Curious too, if Evergreen had been a better student than he’d been (it probably wasn’t that hard to beat him, truthfully, he’d been a daydreamer in all lessons except the practical ones). When he’d joined Fairy Tail, his spoken Fiorean was…passable. It was poor Levy that had helped him improve and better learn its written form, and she’d had her work cut out for her, even with him making an effort to focus. He sighed at the memory.

Outside, the storm intensified, the sound causing the canine on his lap to lift her head, an ear perking up in concern. Gray shifted his weight to allow one hand free to give a reassuring pat to the dog, all the while he turned his gaze back to Evergreen. An opera? Amusement brought him a smile and a slight raise of an eyebrow. The mental image of young Evergreen, excited about her new dress and the prospect of attending the opera was…cute, yet curiosity sparked at the unfinished aspect of the story. “I’m guessing you didn’t like the opera after all?” he asked.

He couldn’t say such a show was something that interested him personally and, although he was sure it had never come up, he had a feeling the opera wasn’t either of his parent’s style either. Reflecting on his too-brief time with them, he was silent for a moment, appreciating that Evergreen even thought to give him an out if he didn’t want to talk about them.

His head tilted back a little as his eyes found the ceiling, as if the memories were being played back there on a Lacrima screen only he could see. A smile tugged the corner of his lips.

“When I was about seven or so, I’d heard the next town over was gonna have a festival of some kind. It’d have food, games, shows, everything exciting, so I really wanted to go and I kept asking my parents about it. I told them we’d have so much fun at it. They were really busy with work though, so they said no and, uh…” He laughed slightly, mildly embarrassed at his younger self. “I might've...sulked until they agreed we could go. I had to do all my chores and whatnot first of course, and help out the old lady next door with her garden. But the festival was…fun. Even mum and dad played some of the games, and we tried a bunch of the foods from the stalls too.” There was perhaps a tinge of childish smugness to him as he added, “At the end of the day, they said I was right and that they were glad we went.”

His parents had promised then that they would make more time to spend as a family and stop allowing work to creep in so much. They promised they would go to any and all festivals they heard of, together, as a family. The old promise sat heavily in his chest like a weight, pulling the smile away from his face. Festivals had since been a reminder of that day, and at times it was simply too much (and as such, he had frequently been ‘on a job’ whenever the Harvest Festival of Magnolia had come around, except of course for that time...).

He sighed, eyes returning to Evergreen. Did mention of festivals bring to mind the infamous Battle of Fairy Tail for her? It was water under the bridge in his eyes, but maybe he should have thought of a different story. In the attempt to shift the topic in case it made her awkward or uncomfortable, he continued with a tangent, “When we got back, the old lady next door said I ruined her garden.” Shrugging at the thought, perhaps a little defensively, he added on a slight grumble, “But how was I supposed to know what was weeds and what was flowers? It all looked the same to me.”

The conversation was heavy, but Carena had gotten very used to it. She had had more than just a handful of heavy conversations with Laxus lately, about who had known what at which point of time, and although this conversation was weighing on her, it at least did not include any mentions of memory magic. Oh hells, that would be quite the twist---and one that she really did not wish for.

Strangely enough, she found herself . . . glad that she was more than just vaguely aware of the fact that if he wanted, Gray had people in his life to discuss the heavy stuff with. He had been friends with Cana for as long as she had been aware of either of them, it felt. And after the Grand Magic Games and all the chaos surrounding it, she was also very aware of his fellow former student. But of course---this required Gray to want to discuss these with someone, and she had become very aware of the . . . culture of silence that the guild had been submerged in. And it was sometimes easier to open up to strangers, to less familiar faces.

(Freed and her had an entire conspiracy theory about how that---being the kind stranger with an open ear and plenty of patience---was how some of the Blue Pegasus mages acquired lots of information some people should probably not part with so easily.)

For the blink of an eye, she looked out the window before her gaze found Gray once more, catching sight of the little cloud. It almost made her smile, not that she knew why. It was commonly said that those who used elemental magic either felt a natural affinity towards an element right away or, over the course of a mage's path, the mage and the element started to be woven together. Laxus' hair sometimes showed signs of static so the frostiness of Gray's breath was not really a surprise. And after years of being friends with Laxus, the storm outside was nowhere as unsettling as it could have been otherwise.

For reasons that she could not quite name, speaking of her mother had always been easier than speaking about her father. If she pushed herself, if she forced herself to examine what she did not like to look closely at, then she would say that it was because her father had passed down the Stone Eyes to her. And the Stone Eyes had been the cause for her family's destruction. She rubbed her neck, trying to remember what her father's study had looked like, what her mother's office had looked like. Two places she had been to many, many times, but they had almost entirely faded from her memory.

Carena hummed as she regarded Gray for a moment. She recognised when an offer to shift the conversation towards an easier topic was made, and this time, she was ready to take him up on the offer. "She had started to teach me some of the older languages," she said. She had neglected her studies into that field, but---what little she remembered had been enough to be useful for some quests. "It was a . . . good time of my life."

Like any member---former or present---of the guild that had joined at a young age, Gray surely knew that it seemed like every happy story that could be told was always bittersweet with the knowledge of what had followed. Such was the nature of a life where much happiness seemed to have been the prelude to the eventual loss of that happiness. And she felt compassion---her own secrets had turned to rubble and been forgotten by almost everyone, but Gray's? All of much of it had been dragged out in the open without his permission. Having had a very famous teacher had its downsides, she would say.

She sighed, her exhale underlined by a particularly sharp howl of the wind outside. "She took me to Crocus to watch an opera on the weekend after I turned eight. I really, really wanted to go because I was so convinced that the opera was for grown ups. She was a good sport about it, we bought a new dress and everything for me since nothing I had was, you know, opera-worthy. But, well. What about you?" she asked then, careful not to appear as too pushy. She was curious, but she had manners as well. "Any similar stories you feel comfortable sharing?"

[infantology]

IF YOU’VE JUST HAD A BABY YOU ARE DEFINITELY GOING THROUGH THIS!

Any individual who is becoming a parent for the first time will attest to the fact that whoever you come in contact with in the first few months, categorically appoints themselves as an advisor. The irony here is, you never really asked for it.

Sometimes advice is great and sharing your concerns and experiences with others might actually lead to a healthy discussion about parenthood. However, more often than not, the well-meaning ‘help’ that others offer can become suffocating and create a lot of confusion.

Becoming a parent, either for the first time or otherwise is a time of great joy, however, it can also be overwhelming and stressful. Added to the unsolicited advice by everyone who is not your doctor, parents can end up feeling anxious and overly burdened.

Here are a few instructions that you shall definitely hear often and should decide for yourself whether they work for you or not

Sleep When The Baby Sleeps

This a great idea in theory, but this might not work for some moms. While you have a new baby and need to get enough rest, there is also laundry piling up, dinner to prepare and a hundred other chores that can only be done when the baby is fast asleep. Also, sometimes it just helps to watch an uninterrupted episode of Bridgeton to keep your mind off things while the baby sleeps.

You Only Need A Handful Of Outfits For The Baby, maybe 4-5- This is by far the funniest piece of advice anyone can give you. Considering how often you'll be changing, burping and feeding your baby, there is a high chance you'll need five pairs of clothes in a DAY.

Don’t Pick Your Child Up When He Wakes At Night – Let Hem Cry It Out

There is absolutely nothing healthy about letting your child cry for hours on end. In the beginning, babies require a lot of attention and comfort from their parents and this does mean 3 am wake-up calls and sleepless nights However letting your newborn ‘cry it out’ as a sleep training tactic is not a recommended practice. If your baby has been crying incessantly for hours it’s okay to put them down for a few minutes to give yourself a break, however as a sleep tactic it could have adverse effects.

Get a babysitter

This is a choice that each parent makes and cannot be a blanket rule. While some prefer to have full-time help to clean, cook and help with the chores, others choose to hire a babysitter about 8-9 months in. Family and close friends will have many opportunities to babysit and have that special time when the baby is older. But spend as much time as you can with your newborn, because they sure grow up really fast.

Therefore, new/expecting parents- keep your cool. There are dependable resources today that help you do the right research for your baby and while some advice does work, it's imperative that you find your own groove. Becoming a parent is beyond special and you want the best for your child. Make informed decisions, and navigate through this complicated phase in your own unique and beautiful way.

Also Read This : 5 BABY CARE PRODUCTS TO STOCK UP ON FOR MONSOON SKINCARE

[helpfulhomeca]

Installations & Ideas for Eco-Friendly Landscaping

Nowadays, it's commonplace to include environmental friendliness in landscaping designs. With increased awareness of environmental issues, sustainable landscaping techniques have become a primary emphasis. Just two examples of green building products that can reduce water use while enhancing the aesthetics of outdoor spaces are permeable pavers and recycled composite decking. Careful planting not only boosts biodiversity but also controls soil erosion and removes hazardous pollutants from stormwater runoff. Landscape plans can feature rain gardens or green roofs to gather precipitation and minimize the burden on municipal drainage systems, further facilitating sustainable stormwater management. These environmentally friendly methods of installing landscapes aid in achieving harmony between the natural world and the built environment.

Installations in the landscape that utilize vintage elements

Your landscape installations can benefit from the charm and character that vintage elements can bring, which will also give the space a special, nostalgic feel. Think about adding rusty wrought iron gates or worn-out wooden furniture to your garden design. These historical items become statement pieces that convey a narrative in addition to being useful design elements.

Old wine barrels can be used as planters, for example. By giving these rusty pots a second life as homes for brilliant flowers or aromatic herbs, you're not only giving them a new purpose but also enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your outdoor area.

Utilizing salvaged materials, such as old bricks or stones for paths or retaining walls, is another inventive method to include antique elements. This not only gives your environment a historical and authentic feel, but it also lessens the demand for fresh resources.

Consider searching flea markets or antique shops for one-of-a-kind finds that may be used as focal pieces in your garden design, such as birdbaths, sundials, or even old signs. Guests' conversations and recollections will certainly be enduring thanks to these unique products.

It's crucial to keep in mind the practicality and endurance of historical elements when incorporating them into North Vancouver landscape installations. Ensure that they are expertly cleaned, restored if necessary, and seamlessly incorporated into the overall design of your outdoor environment.

You may design a genuinely compelling setting that stands out from the crowd while minimizing waste and supporting sustainability by embracing the beauty of vintage components in landscape projects. So feel free to be motivated by nostalgia!

How to Avoid Common Property Maintenance Mistakes

Proper North Vancouver property maintenance is crucial for the durability and value of your investment. Conversely, even the most experienced property owners occasionally do minor mistakes that call for costly repairs or diminish the appeal of their houses. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at some original strategies for avoiding these common slip-ups and effectively maintaining your property.

First and foremost, regular inspections are essential for identifying issues early on. Instead of depending solely on eye evaluations, think about adopting cutting-edge technology for more thorough inspections, including thermal imaging cameras or drones. These tools have the ability to reveal hidden problems like water leaks or structural flaws that could otherwise go undetected.

Another crucial element that is occasionally overlooked is developing a preventive maintenance program. Instead than waiting until something breaks to fix it, create a routine that includes chores like HVAC system checkups, gutter cleaning, and roof inspections. Giving preventive measures the upper hand over reactive ones will help you avoid future, more costly charges.

In order to prevent mistakes in property maintenance, excellent communication is also essential. Encourage tenants or residents to report any minor issues immediately in order to prevent them from becoming major issues later on necessitating significant repair work.

Finally, up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and best practices is necessary for effective property management. Participate in seminars or online discussion boards where you may network with other experts, exchange ideas, and learn cutting-edge strategies for maintaining property.

By putting forward-thinking tactics into practice and maintaining continual monitoring, you'll be able to keep your home in top condition and maintain its worth for years to come!

Garden Renovation to Increase the Value of Your Home

An often-overlooked asset that can considerably increase a home's resale value is the garden. Make an investment in a North Vancouver garden renovation if you want to draw buyers and raise the appeal of your house. You ought to seize the opportunity whenever you get it.

It takes more than simply weeding and planting flowers to redesign your garden; you also need to make an outdoor area that blends seamlessly with the inside of your house. With some careful design and labor in the garden, your backyard can be transformed into a lovely retreat.

Imagine wide, lush lawns bordered by vibrant flowerbeds, meandering stone paths leading to fragrant herb gardens, and secluded resting areas where you can relax and take in the peace and quiet of nature. These are just a few ideas that, if used, may significantly raise the value of your house.

By tastefully updating your garden, you can increase the curb appeal of your house and have extra space to host people outside. You may hold lovely summer gatherings on a chic patio or enjoy calm mornings with a cup of coffee in an idyllic gazebo in your garden, which offers countless opportunity to create unforgettable memories.

Whether you're a natural gardener or need professional assistance, improvements to your garden can add thousands to the value of your home. Act right away to take advantage of all these untapped chances.

[sentimentalconviction]

13 july, 2023

i had a horrible thought today. i realized while brushing my hair that i was praying that my kids don’t end up with it too. but what if they do?

this is when it dawned on me: would i allow my children to feel as though their hair is a burden? that a feature they have no control over is a chore?

i don’t know when exactly it went from “just hair” to something that made me and my sister strikingly different to the rest of our family. i can’t pinpoint the moment in which we spontaneously transformed into a sideshow. but i remember how clear the sentiment could be.

there isn’t much you can do in a family fueled by snide remarks and stereotypes. there’s no way to undo that damage.

i’ve been trying to learn how to love my hair for well over a decade. my mom stopped brushing it before school when i was around 8 and no one ever taught me how to deal with it. it attacked me most days until i started only brushing the outside of my ponytail and a huge mat formed in the very back center of my head. out of pity, my grandmother would occasionally sit me down and fight that fight for me. i brush it all the way through now. some days, all i ask of myself is to somehow make it look managed. the word “nappy” follows me.

i’ve been scared of tanning since kindergarten. that year, we moved into a house with a pool and that summer, my sister and i tanned to a shade that our family referred to as “george lopez brown.” out hispanic grandfather is fair-skinned and even that couldn’t help my mother’s naturally tanner than her siblings skin, either. she wore turtlenecks during our texas summers in my youth. my sister and me being half black only added fuel to the fire.

allusions to my sister and i being “dirty” or “ghetto” with hair that was “nappy” permanently altered the vision i had of my identity. i’m more than than i was several weeks ago and i’m still struggling with that. i brushed my hair today and i’m still struggling with that. i’m the way that i am and i’m still struggling with that.

and in all of this, i know that i have never found justification in how i was treated as a biracial kid raised by only one side of my family. i have never found it in myself to treat another person this way. i have never found anything less than perfection in the way that any of us are created. i have never thought to ask anyone if they’d even bothered to brush their hair today. i have never told someone that they’re too dark to need sunscreen. i have never made someone feel embarrassed for their cultural practices.

and in all of this, i know that i will never find justification in how i was treated as a biracial kid raised by only one side of my family. i will never find it in myself to treat another person this way. i will never find anything less than perfection in the way that any of us are created. --

[worldismyne]

The Longest Sleepover Ch 11

Summary: The first year of school did not go as planned for Harv and he’s never felt more alone. That is, until a loud kid from the saga studies course decides they’re best friends now.

(Year 1 AU, Harv deals with homophobia, Finn is oblivious.)

Series: Warrior U

Pairing: HarvFinn

Rating: T

Ao3 Link

"You can do this." Harv said. He stared himself down in the mirror, trying his best to not to feel silly. "It doesn't matter if you run into someone you know, you're allowed to be there." These exercises were supposedly helpful, but anytime he did them, he felt anxious someone might overhear him talking to himself. He knew he couldn't do his job and hide from the outside world at the same time. Finn wanted to check out the summer harvest festival today, and if Finn went, Harv had to follow.

The clothes Emet made for Harv still felt like a costume to him at times. The black leather armor pieces were more decorative than functional, and the furs added to the unnecessary embellishments. It was, however, more comfortable than the ridiculous tunic Finn had forced him to wear for the opera.

With each passing day the burden of being away from home had lessened, if only slightly. Having a job helped, even if the things asked of him were odd. He tried not to think about what the spell components he gathered were for, or how Finn's chores had slowly become his. At least this way he didn't feel like he'd end up back on the street for being an inconvenience.

"Harvey, open up." There was a banging on the upstairs bathroom door. "Or at the very least hand me the hairspray." Finn opened the door before Harv could object, his blond bangs half obscuring his vision. He blindly pawed around for a comb. "Usually you get ready so fast, what's the matter?" Harv traded spots with Finn and caught the comb just as Finn discarded it for some magic in a can.

"Nothing."

"You know I can tell when you're lying." Finn said in sing-song. 

"Then you know I don't want to talk about it." Harv rolled his eyes. Finn sprayed his hair and held the curls in place while the potion dried.

"Is this keep me distracted 'nothing' or a let me be 'nothing'? You know I have trouble telling the difference." Finn said. He glanced over at Harv as he adjusted his armor for the sixth time. 

"Distracted, unless..." Harv sighed, sensing Finn's mischievous grin rather than seeing it. "Unless Trevor tries to talk to me."

"Finally going to acknowledge the poor soul?" Finn said, feeling quite smug that his pestering had a hand in Harv's decision.

"Maybe, I don't know. It depends. I'm not chasing him down, if that's what you're thinking." Finn brushed past him to find his wrist length gloves.

"Oh no, of course not, wouldn't want to look desperate or anything." Finn half teased. Harv glared at him weakly.

"Is this your idea of helping?" 

"I thought you didn't want my help."  Finn collected the last of his things and went down stairs. 

"I don't." Harv paused at the top of the stairs. "But, uh, it wouldn't hurt to stay close. Just in case." He hurried after Finn, if nothing else to focus on something other than the many ways today could go wrong. 

-----

They had missed the church blessing, the first loaf of bread of the year. Finn was too afraid to set foot near the church, apparently one too many a person had told him he'd burst into flames should he come in contact with sacred ground. Which, at the end of the day, Harv wasn't too keen to show his face there himself. He had hoped to overhear who got the honor of baking the first loaf. It was something his mother had been working toward for years now. 

Skipping the service had afforded them a first look at the festival decorations. It was humbler than Finn had hoped, all-natural greenery and sticks fashioned together with twine. The inedible leftovers from the haying had been gathered in the center of town to fuel the night's bonfire, an impressive tower of drybrush considering last year's prediction for the harvest.

"I don't get it." Finn sighed. "What's so exciting about a pile of hay?"

"A bigger harvest means fatter animals." Harv said with a smile. "The bigger the bonfire, the less misfortune the coming year."

"Sounds like a bunch of fiction to me." Finn shook his head. "At least the fire will be pretty." He dragged Harv to the various stalls local vendors had set up. Some had little games of chance, others had little treats or rare items on display. After the service let out, people trickled into the streets and it was easier to blend in the crowd. Performers took to their posts, competing for the money and attention of festival goers. 

Finn was plenty satisfied with his caramel apple and heckling other musicians under his breath, but he was more than happy to pay to watch Harv try his hand at the games. Most of them were rigged or had to be played a certain way, but when it came to feats of strength Harv came out on top. Without even trying he'd broken a high striker, and Finn couldn't help but cackle at the game runner's misfortune. 

"They'll put hay in just about anything won't they?" Finn said as he watched a covered cart trot by with hay falling out of the back end. "That's about the only thing we haven't tried, let's go." He tugged on Harv's arm, but the warrior remained rooted.

"Finn, that's for couples." Harv said.

"Don't be ridiculous, it says right there on the sign ages five and up." Finn crossed his arms and waited for Harv to admit he was right.

"Do you see any children in that line?" Harv looked away. "It's the only place in the festival you can be kind of alone. Just, trust me, okay?" Finn looked at the line of young couples eagerly chatting with their partner as they waited for the cart to come back. 

"Just because couples like to go on it, doesn't mean we can't-"

"I'm not going." Harv turned to walk away, knowing full well he couldn't win a battle of words with the bard. "Go by yourself if you want to go so bad." 

"Fine, maybe I will!" Finn stood rooted in the line with his arms crossed, but Harv didn't turn around. As much as he didn't want to go alone, now he was committed to his word. He could only imagine how boring this festival would be for Harv while he was waiting for Finn to get off the ride. That alone gave him a little comfort. 

------

Harv had kept the hayride line in the corner of his eye until Finn got on, spending his time mindlessly looking at nearby stalls. Of course, he'd already seen them all, but there wasn't much else to do. As much as he'd like to get something for his friends or brothers, nothing really stuck out to him. The best he could do was the silly straw doll he'd won at the high striker.

"Harv?" Harv's heart caught in his throat. "Wow, nice clothes. It's good to see you doing better. I was pretty worried." Trevor said. His taller friend smiled patiently at him as he fumbled for the goofy looking prize he'd won and shoved it into the empty air in front of him. "For me? Thanks!" 

"I'm sorry..." Harv began. Everything he'd planned to say was quickly forgotten. 

"What are you sorry for?" Trevor ruffled Harv's hair. "I know it wasn't your fault." Harv grabbed Trevor's hand before he could take it away.

"I..." He could hear the dull hum of other people's voices, feel every stray glance from a passerby. But if he didn't say anything now, he knew he'd kick himself for a week at least. "I like you." He squeezed Trevor's hand. "So... it kinda is... I mean..." He let go of Trevor's hand and hid his face in his hands. 

"...How long were you planning on staying at the festival?" Harv peaked through his fingers at his crush. Trevor was awkwardly shuffling his feet and looking away, his face was flushed. "The bonfire's soon, we could um... we could get a spot." 

"That'd be great!" Harv dropped his hands. "But, I promised Finn we'd go together. He's on the silly kiddy ride, but when he gets back we could meet up with you."

"That's okay..." Trevor sighed. "Another time maybe?"

"Yeah, of course." Harv backed away awkwardly. He didn't really want to go, but he thought he'd seen Finn get off the ride. "I'll call you." He waved goodbye, waiting until Trevor returned to Cliff and the others before hunting down Finn. He found the bard dumping the rest of his caramel apple in the trash.

"Good, you're here." Finn said quickly. "We have to go."

"Go?" Harv followed Finn as he weaved through the crowd, peeking up his head every so often to check if Harv was still there. "Wait, like go go? I thought we were going to watch the bonfire. What happened?"

"It was awful, just like you said. Only you left the part out where you have to share the cart with other people." Finn shuddered. "If that wasn't enough, Darren was in line with his little paramour and I may have exaggerated how awful it was when scolding the people I was forced to ride with. She overheard and slapped him."

"Who slapped who?" Harv asked.

"Darren's date; she slapped him and stormed off, but it wasn't my fault." Finn sharply turned down a different row of stalls. "He has a very slappable face. It was funny until he decided I did it on purpose." He waited as two knights stormed past in the direction they thought Finn had run off in. Finn glanced up at Harv, who despite the dire situation couldn't stop smiling. "Is my potential death that amusing to you?"

"No, sorry, I think Trevor tried to ask me out; but this is more important." Harv covered his mouth and tried to look pensive. "I'm taking this seriously, I swear."

"What do you mean 'tried'?" Finn practically shook him. "You need to tell me everything, but maybe not where Darren's on the warpath."

"Forget about Darren, do you want to go to the bonfire?" Harv brushed Finn's hands off. 

"Well, yes, but-"

"Then we're going." Harv meandered out into the main walkway. Finn stayed in the secluded part of the fairground and motioned for Harv to do the same. 

"Harvey, have you lost your mind?"

"What's he going to do, really? Yell at us a whole bunch?" Harv shrugged. "This is a public event, we're allowed to be here." The sun was starting to dip below the horizon, bathing the fairground in red and purple. "We can leave early if you want, but you should at least get to see them light it." 

Maybe he was letting not getting rejected go to his head a little, but Harv wasn't going to let some jerk spoil their fun. Both of them should get to leave the festival on a high note. Finn slowly peeled himself away from the shadows to where Harv was standing. 

"Alright, we can stay, but just to see what all the fuss is about, then we leave."

"I know just the place."

-----

 The rooftop of the tailor's guild was slightly easier to get to than the tops of the bergamot trees, but Finn felt just as uneasy about being up there. Harv dragged a few old crates out of the shadows and gestured for Finn to take a seat. Finn eyed the worn wood with caution as he gingerly sat next to Harv. One stray splinter could tear his stockings or pierce the skin, but Harv couldn't care less. A stiff breeze tugged at Finn's hair and he pulled his arms in close, still warmed by the lingering daylight.

The townspeople were the size of fleece dolls from where they sat, milling about toward the unlit bonfire with anticipation. The sights and sounds were more bearable here, merely a dull nod to the senses. One by one, the shop keeps lit their lanterns, a winding snake of light slowly blinking to life under the setting sun. 

"It's all the same fire." Harv said, leaning in so Finn could find where he was pointing to. "Someone in the church has been nursing a flame from the new year, and they use that to light the festival. Then, once the flame makes it to the bonfire, they'll let it burn out."

"What happens if it goes out before then?" Finn asked. Someone almost fumbled the torch, but was able to protect the flame from the wind long enough to reach the hay bail. 

"Bad luck I suppose." Harv shrugged. "It's the thought that counts more than the actual fire. It's supposed to represent the town making it through another winter." Finn hummed in response, watching the delicate flames hungrily consume the pete in front of a cheering crowd. The wind picked up, further fanning the flames, and soon a roaring fire danced in the night. "The first time I went, I didn't realize how far the heat could reach, and spent most of the night within a few feet of the bonfire. The next day, my face and arms were as tender as they'd be after a week's worth of field work. That's why everyone's staying out of the light."

"Was it worth it?"

"I think so." Harv shrugged off his cloak at the next bluster of wind and draped it on Finn's shoulders. "What?" Finn's hand curled into the dark furs as he studied Harv's confused expression. "I'm sorry it doesn't go with you shoes or whatever, but you looked like you'd get blown off the roof if I didn't do something." Finn bit his lip. "What?"

"Nothing..." Finn glanced down at their seats, an uncomfortable gap between the crates that'd be difficult to sit on, even if he tried to push his crate closer to Harv's. This was the closest they could get for now. "Thank you," Finn watched as the town's people danced and drank in the fire's glow. "For not ditching me and... well... yeah..."

"Of course I wouldn't..." Harv said. "What would make you say that?"

"The brick wall of your dreams tried to ask you out." Finn rolled his eyes at the goofy grin that spread across Harv's face. "What does that even mean anyway? You didn't turn him down did you?"

"Not exactly."  Harv fiddled with the pendant around his neck. "I told him I liked him and he wanted to go to the bonfire together..." His hand stilled. "Oh heavens, he didn't actually say he liked me back."

"Don't start getting in your head about it!" Finn slapped his shoulder. "I'm pretty sure 'let's hang out alone' is a pretty clear answer to 'I like you'. "

"I thought so." Harv smiled again.

"...well, what are you going to do?" Finn asked after a bit of quiet had passed. "You turned down his idea for a date, it's only proper you offer an alternative."

"I don't know Finn." 

"You. DON'T. KNOW!?" Finn reeled back, his head in his hands.

"I never thought I'd get this far." Harv grinned sheepishly. "It was easier to not think about it, then get my hopes up."

"Well what do you think we were doing this whole time!?" Finn counted on his fingers. "You could take him to a cafe, or a show, or a picnic." He grabbed a breath of air. "There's the salon, or window shopping, you could even go for a stroll by the lake if you're so inclined. How could you not know? Just pick one!" Some of the townspeople looked up toward the roof, unable to see anything, but alarmed at the sudden shouting. Harv's hand slowly left the pendent around his neck.

"Finn, were we... Did you think we were dating?" Harv held his breath as Finn turned away from him.

"No!" Finn pulled the cloak closer around him. "I was just being a good friend and showing you places you could go. It's different." He bit his lip. "Don't ask me how it is, just trust me, I know." He had been told many times before in many ways that he was hopeless."No one wants to waste their time pursuing a romance with someone without those sorts of passions. Hanging out with friends is the closest I'll ever.." He sighed. "If you tell him it's a date, it'll be different, you'll see." 

"Finn, I'm sorry."

"What's there to be sorry about? I'm fine." The excitement from the fire being lit had died down, with festival goers relaxing in the warm glow of the bonfire or wandering back to their previous tasks. It seemed like fun the way Harv described it, but he knew better than to suggest venturing closer with Darren somewhere in the crowd. It's just a fire, he told himself, a boring old fire; just like they had in any old hearth. He hadn't been missing out on anything, these people just made a big deal out of something ordinary. "Can we go now?" 

"Yeah, sure." Finn stood up the moment Harv agreed, and started climbing off the roof toward the alley. Harv lingered a bit, trying to see if he could pick out any auburn hair in the crowd. The entire town was dyed in orange light, making even the fairest of hair indiscernible from his friend's. It would have been nice to hang around the festival grounds longer, but he couldn't help smiling again. Next year would be different, next year he'd get to spend it with someone special. That little thought warmed his chest more than any fire could.

[dolgelo]

[ i never say this when posting in-character asks, but totally feel free to turn asks into threads !  -- it’s my pleasure, truly. i’m aching for more active threads now that the p3 scene seems to be alive again -- and i hope it stays so. that being said though, if you would want an ask I sent you to be turned into a thread, please let me know... i never turn stuff into threads because i am always a bit scared of annoying people / just be rude / burdening your with more threads, but yeah - if we got a nice idea rolling and we both want to explore it, you just say the word, i am always down for more <3 ]