#Apparently the chicken had a baby with one of our cats?

[icybluepenguin]

Penguin 2 has a ridiculous stuffed chicken and wanted a baby sized ridiculous stuffed chicken

So I made her one

[maniculum]

Bestiaryposting Results -- Hreksong

Slightly awkward timing on this one: the animal in question happened to come up on a recent episode of our podcast (We literally quoted a line from the Bodley MS 764 entry, because it was relevant to the story we were reading). So any of the artists who listen may have gotten spoilers. (I say "may", but I've already seen one art post that references the episode.) Sorry about that, artists. Kind of a bizarre coincidence, actually -- it's pretty rare that we happen across bestiary material in a narrative text, and the fact that we did so shortly before the relevant entry came up in the rotation... well, the odds are against it.

Anyway, anyone who doesn't know what this is about should check out https://maniculum.tumblr.com/bestiaryposting. You can also check the "maniculum bestiaryposting" tag to see what beast is the current prompt. The entry for this week's drawings can be found here:

Art below the cut, roughly chronological, as always.

@silverhart-makes-art (link to post here) decided that the best interpretation of the information given was that this was a sort of arboreal mongoose that practiced mouthbrooding. If you want to know what the reasoning was there, you should read the linked post -- it all makes sense there. I absolutely love that the one in the picture is opening its mouth to show the baby riding inside. Silverhart indicates that this is a quicker sketch than usual, but frankly their animal-drawing skills are so good that even a quick sketch is impressive from my perspective.

@cheapsweets (link to post here) did separate drawings for the large outdoor version (upper image, carrying its young) and the small indoor version (lower image, stealing someone's food). The linked post, which explains the design in some detail, indicates that CheapSweets was thinking along similar lines as Silverhart -- i.e., what kind of animal is known for hunting snakes? I like the pose in the first image, and I really like the scene depicted in the second one. On one hand, I'm sure having little creatures live in your roof and steal food literally out of your hands is quite frustrating, but on the other hand, it's very funny. Look at that little guy just brazenly stealing some chicken (or whatever type of bird). The idea of them using their back legs to grip rafters for exactly this purpose is excellent.

@strixcattus (link to post here) decided these could be birds, and has drawn these owl-like creatures for us. They look a bit surly, but that could just be the feather pattern on their faces. As always, I strongly recommend checking out that linked post, as Strixcattus writes brilliant interpretations of these entries in the register of a modern naturalist to accompany the illustrations.

@pomrania (link to post here) has noted that cats live in houses and eat mice, and given us this charming domestic scene. They also note the issues with this interpretation in the linked post, which of course you should read. I think the poses of the cats are very well done here; one of those kittens looks like it wants to paw at the monk's belt but can very much not reach.

And now for the Aberdeen Bestiary:

I'm not sure about the head proportions -- I'd suggest that the flattened snout is because the artist ran out of space, if it weren't for the fact that they were fine letting the back foot extend into the border -- but that is recognizably a weasel.

A few things to note from this:

1. Medieval people apparently had not only mice in their homes, but weasels, which I'd never really thought about. I'm not sure what the distinction they're drawing between the type you find in your home and the type you find in the woods is about, though.

2. The weasel's healing magic crops up in multiple texts, including the Lais of Marie de France and Volsungasaga. It's less common than you might think to find overlap between bestiary-weirdness and narrative-weirdness, so that's pretty notable.

3. I have no friggin' idea why anyone thought they gave birth through their ears. Baffling.

[vermillioncrown]

Heres babies (and udon)

creature got spayed last thursday so now shes got naked chicken tummy & one (1) boot

looks weird

babies are separated until babu stops being pissy about the vet smell 😭

i got throat punched twice bc i had to take the food away pre surgery and creature had to make sure i was aware that she was Starving, Withering, Wasting Away

evening agonies has also snuck its way into my lexicon bc i was at checkout and thought “time for my evening agonies (making something other than cereal for dinner)”

the video is dancing fruit which apparently creature does like but when she slaps the phone, she somehow ends up zooming in youtube

apple bottom jean, boot (1) with the fur

verm bf and i called our cat's shaved "wrist" his "new watch"

"why are you meowing, check your watch, it's not time [for food] yet you dumbass"

(lotus root in your beef udon? inch resting...)

=

oh buddy...i hope that's soon. mine's heavy enough that he just steps onto my solar plexus and that's enough to take me out

=

HA (i love infecting ppl w my diction)

=

that creature's a little man (gender-neutral) watching ytube. just a tiny people 💁

[linzsaw]

My Monthly Favs What’s in my cup:

Every morning I drink iced coffee made from my one & only Nespresso machine. The past few months I can’t get enough of the double espresso blend, and then I add a bit of whole milk (happy cows only) and sweet cream. I can’t find anything better from Starbucks or anywhere else. Sometimes if I’m craving a hot drink, I’ll head to Dutch Bros for a hot Carmelizer and it is totally worth the cringy 9 minute forced convo with the DB crew. I also start my day with electrolytes, currently in the watermelon flavor. It’s surprisingly really delicious but I miss the Electrolyte Synergy blend that I was drinking for a long time, which has been sold out for almost a year now. :’)

What’s on my plate:

Dinner lately has been the laziest in America. After our trip, Drew & I either have the same ole chicken, rice and veggies, a spicy “mexican bowl” or some form of pasta, usually with Raos Arriabatta sauce. This week we’ve been stuffing our faces with Trader Joe’s frozen meals. We promise to be better next month, but we are really exhausted and the last thing we feel like planning are meals. However, for the last week of December we actually have some things planned for the holiday weekend. On Friday, we’re hitting up the town as we do every year to walk around and see the lights, and find festive little bars to try out new Christmas cocktails. We plan to spend Christmas with just the two of us. For Christmas Eve we are making our annual corn beef, cabbage and carrots because apparently we are super Irish (confirmed by 23&me which btw leaked all my genes to hackers). On Christmas we are having tri-tip, garlic & butter brussel sprouts, and mashed potatoes. The Christmas cookies we’re making this year include White Chocolate Cherry Shortbread cookies, Peanut Butter Blossoms, & Holly Leaves. Okay and now that I’ve told you all that, the Christmas cocktails we decided on this year are The Mistletoe Kiss (a vodka, soda water, rosemary & cranberry drank) and Bad Santa White Russians. I also heard that Moon X Pinot Noir from Trader Joes was really good and lately the Redvolution just isn’t doing it for me.  Let me know if you want any of these recipes, ladies. I will make sure to find GF, DF, and V options. 

What’s on my bookshelf:

I’ve finished two of the Colleen Hoover books, and now I’m reading another one of hers called Verity. It’s kinda depressing but that’s kinda the vibe as of late so I’m into it. 

What’s in my playlist:

We love the Sia Christmas album. It’s so fun and happy. Believe it or not, Andy introduced me to it lol. It’s so good!! Other songs I’ve been into are I remember everything by Zach Bryan and Kacey Musgraves. It reminds me of a family member rn which is very depressing to me. Fun to cry to. Bubble - STAYC, Surround Sound - JID 21 Savage, Baby Tate, Adora Hills - Doja Cat. 

What I’m up to:

Making our house into a winter wonderland of lights. Watching hella hallmark movies. Being seriously lazy, not working out or eating healthy. Walks with Snoop around the park. Mandala scratch off nightscapes. Reading at 3am when I was jetlagged. I had a sleep study this month too, no sleep apnea for me, back to mouth taping! It really does help with quality of sleep for me. You should try it! Also magnesium spray on my feet (shout out to Aly). This has helped with my restless leg syndrome that we’ve all experienced. This weekend, we’re making all our foods and cocktails, going downtown, driving around with hot choc to look at lights, and heading up to Rocky Mountain to hike a bunch of mountains. 

Skincare Saviors:

My skin gets so dry in Colorado, its TERRIBLE. And now that I’m saving for a house, I had to break up with my amazing esthetician, who by the way I stole this template from. I’m obsessed with Dermlogica thanks to her. I use a miscellar water if I wore any make-up. If not, I just double clease with my face wash. In the AM I’ll use my Rosehip Triple C+E Firming  Oil, followed by COSRX snail mucin essence, and a magical mix of calm water gel and intensive moisture balance. 

Love you long time,

Li

[theninjasanctuary]

I'm still getting Tumblr glitches, as in, the end-of-year post I saved in drafts is nowhere to be found in the browser version, which is where I wrote and saved it, but is there on the app. Ehh.

Well, this one did not feel like a year where anything significant happened. Which I suppose is a way of saying I've had a decent enough year? As in, the world continues to burn, but I don't recall anything officially bad happening to me, despite all the whining and strong language I did in my posts. Nobody died, I'm gainfully employed and mostly bamboozling people that I can keep up. Looking at what I wrote to summarize the previous year, this one's been a breeze. Even though when I re-read what I've been posting this year - and I don't actually remember half of it -, it seems at least in the winter and spring, I wasn't having a great time between sleep deprivation, money woes and raising a sweet, but messy and needy cat; and from the summer onwards have not updated much at all, always complaining about stress. Well, for one thing, it is obvious I should reduce time spent on Reddit so there's more of it for everything else...

In no particular order: this was surely a better year from the health perspective. The last time I was ill was an annoying cold in early-to-mid February, where I actually needed antibiotics again because I tested positive for lung chlamydia, and have been generally just fine ever since, a welcome break after all the ailments 2022 threw at me. The achy wrist is still there and annoying, but I'm hoping it is fixable with the new treatment plan. And the toe I stubbed really bad in early September is still not a pretty sight, but in early December I finally started seeing a healthy pink regrowth emerge from under the cuticle, so the purple bruised part might finally be gone by, idk, April?

Could have used more exercise, as always, but I kept up with massage therapy and tried to keep up with physio appointments at least (there were some unintended breaks). And I've made some improvements about keeping my cholesterol level in check, and feel good about the new GP.

The cat is indeed no longer a kitten, but has grown into a fine adult, he's 1,5 years old now, weighs close to 6 kilos and is a pretty, floofy, bright boy with a friendly, curious personality. It has been expensive (getting all.the.things from zero, plus medical costs, plus food), and takes up loads of time, he nearly always delays bedtime so I lose sleep, and I've had to wash all the rugs, even replacing one with one that's easier to clean, because he either puked on them (his tummy is a bit sensitive apparently), or used the texture to scoot dingleberries off his floofy butt. Ehh. I'm now a lot less squeamish about cat poop, and since we are trying to keep his butt hair at least somewhat trimmed (despite resistance), there are fewer accidents, and he's learned to tolerate the occasional butt showers without clawing.

He's also grown less bitey when playing, and is still positive and confident, not holding any grudges. His favourite treat is freshly boiled egg (quail or chicken will both do, and he likes his portion slightly warm). He does not enjoy getting brushed all that much, but we keep a Furminator handy for quick swipes, because otherwise every damn thing is covered with cat hair, and the floors develop hefty, dark grey dust bunnies. Beyond demanding before-bedtime treats and play, he mostly lets us sleep without interrupting, as he's not particularly food-motivated, just gets impatient waiting for his morning cuddles sometimes. He only slept in our bed for a few weeks as a baby, initially between our pillows, then moved towards the end of the bed, but then decided he needs more space, and now sleeps where he feels like - sometimes on a chair in our room, sometimes under the bed, sometimes in whichever comfy spot elsewhere he prefers that night. I sometimes wish he was more of a snuggler, tbh, since he's so nice and soft with big plushie vibes. He does come asking that I pick him up for a cuddle and purr session when I get out of bed, or come home from wherever I've been, or sometimes before bedtime as well, and occasionally he'll have a cuddly kind of mood all day long, but overall, he's not a lap cat. Still, I lift and carry him around often enough that it might be contributing to my wrist issues. (Typical De Quervain's syndrome sufferers are mothers with young children.)

Work-wise, I've been feeling like a failure all year, despite actually getting at least some things done by winging it, and I feel I've been growing and learning with the new tasks I've had. Even so though, there's loads of guilt and stress, and I've often struggled with an irrational urge to avoid looking at my emails. It's not even that the workload is that much, it all boils down to my inability to focus. And I still haven't gotten any professional help with that, because my ability to go looking is limited (because I'm busy either stressing about work or procrastinating). And I still haven't seen an optometrist either, despite it being on the to-do-list since spring.

Can't say I've kept up on the home front that great either. My cleaning standards are slipping, particularly when it comes to dusting. There are just way too many things. And the inability to focus bleeds over to chores, things take way too long to get done or are delayed endlessly. I wish I could fix this. OTL

I keep procrastinating by browsing second-hand stores a lot. Made a switch to Sellpy as the first choice this year, since Momox changed their pricing policy and now Sellpy has the better deals as well as cheaper and easier shipping/returns, despite never having discount codes like Momox does. As for the score of items purchased, there were wins and losses, I did manage to get a few stellar items I wear a lot, but also returned lots of complete duds, either things that unfortunately didn't fit, or things I should not have expected to work in the first place, I guess. And I certainly kept a few items I don't use as much... if ever, as remains to be seen.

I see it would be better to tone this habit down to save both time and money, but since the shopping urges are at least partly hormonal, I cannot count on consistently making rational decisions. At least I'm not experimenting much with skincare at this point, mostly sticking to repurchasing staples. It still gets a bit expensive even so, and it has to be said that I've had an annoying amount of acne and picking issues this year despite keeping up with an elaborate skincare routine. All of this to be filed under *shit I still don't know how to fix*.

The travelling I managed this year was pretty nice in hindsight, a week in France at the end of January, then another in mid-August, then a weekend trip to Brussels, and an overnight in Helsinki to see a great live. I wish I could do more of this without financial stress, and worrying about leaving the cat (he's not taking separation super-hard, but still). The trip to Japan with friends we could not afford to take was a bit of a shitshow, btw: scorching temperatures, then a typhoon and then return flight cancellation, so stuck at the airport for 2 days before eventually getting rerouted.

Socializing: I think I did better than last year in this respect, I finally was in the mood for, and had the opportunity to throw a proper birthday garden party for myself, which was lovely. Additional meet-ups happened too, even if it would have been fun to have more. And having the cool coworker back at the office has been good, as expected. Now if I'd manage to actually get work done in reasonable hours, and feel good enough about my work output to warrant taking the time for fun, including hanging out with people, it would be even better.

Family: things are good with the boyf and most of the family, but I am stressed about big brother, his wife, and mom's will. Idk how any of this will be resolved. Ideally, I'd just buy the things I want from mom before inheritance ever becomes an issue, thus preventing any dividing issues, but I'd need to win the lottery beforehand...

I managed to do more gardening at mom's over the summer, which was rather nice. The summer wasn't as stressful climate-wise as feared, it was very dry in June, but enough rain from there onwards, and not too hot (I didn't get round to buying a mobile air conditioner nor heat-reflecting blinds, nor Birkenstocks, so this was very welcome). Still sad about losing a major feature of the entire garden, the big maple tree. Hoping to plant a replacement in the spring.

My aims for the next year involve being more responsible about money. It would be ridiculous to end up short on funds again when I'll be earning more than ever. The plan is to put more into the index fund retirement scheme, and I've started an automatic saving scheme as well (it rounds up all the card payments to 1 € up + I've added a monthly lump payment). I do hope to finally calm down about wardrobe upgrades, since I already have so much fabulous, joy-sparking stuff, and instead improve fitness a bit, so things will look better on me. I should definitely get more exercise anyway, and get some sort of a cheapish sports watch might be good. And I need to eat less sugar, and it would be good to get back to 8/16.

It also looks like 2024 will be one of the hardest work years of my life, and I have to manage to pull it all off for things to be easier in the future. It would be good if I just read books in my downtime instead of procrastinating on social media. Work guilt has meant very little reading just for fun this year, and that's not the kind of person I want to be.

As for what to look forward to, I will travel to France again in a few weeks, and probably to New York in June.

[now-we-say-c0ral]

August 5, 2023

I was annoying Ed last night before we slept and that was around 2am and he told me that he'd incite his revenge to me later in the morning. He woke me up 8am and demanded cuddles and kisses and I was still asleep. He's a Leo and he gets his power from the sun while I don't believe in that shit but I'm a waterbender and I get my power from the moon. We are total opposites in this aspect.

It was date day today with him and he told me that he'll be taking me somewhere in Westminster. We had breakfast in the morning then around 12pm we arrived in Westminster. On our way pass London Bridge, he told me that he'll be taking me to Sea Life and my eyes literally widened with joy and excitement. It's been some time since I wanted to go here and he took me. It was so fun! The inner child in me is so happy. I never got to experience this when I was a kid because I was just always in Zamboanga City and we never really traveled as a family because we were not that well off but to be able to go to these places right now as an adult really pinches me in the heart right to the very core. I saw this big shark that I named 'Daddy' and there was this Bowmouth Shark that was kind of nasty-looking it was borderline ugly. It was my first time to see penguins and boy, oh boy, was I happy! They were such adorable birds and I wish that I could pet them but the exhibit didn't allow. Overall, it was so fun! I'd do it all over again sometime soon. Next is the animal conservatory in Kent that I want to visit. We then went to Wagamama and ate some ramen. The weather was reminiscent of the first Sea Life experience Ed and I had in Brighton. It was soaking wet and it was raining cats and it's good this time that we both brought our umbrellas.

We then went to Bluewater Shopping Centre in Kent with Nico since he invited us and it was such a big mall. Apparently it's the third best mall here in the UK. It's big but that's just it. Apart from that there was nothing really special about it. We ate at Slim Chickens and their portions were generous as fuck. The 13GBP price was really worth it. I also urged Ed to buy a cute outfit for Poi's wedding. I told him to go with a baby pink polo shirt and a dark blue trouser but he wanted the baby blue polo and the dark blue trouser. I got one portion right, at least!

Today was a good day!

[alsjeblieft-zeg]

336 of 2023

Created by emptyspaces

What area of science interests you the most?

Physics, particularly electromagnetic waves.

Where all have you lived?

Middelkerke, Belgium. Then someplace in West Pomerania, Poland. Then back to Middelkerke. Then Knokke, also in Belgium. And now Bruges. Also in Belgium.

Have you ever had a pet bird?

Do chickens count?

What did you have for dinner last night?

We don’t have dinners at night lol. This is Europe.

What's the weirdest baby name you've ever heard of?

Whatever you Americans name your kids. Seriously, naming people after random objects?

What was the last thing you wrote down on paper?

Grocery list for my parents.

Have you ever watched Breaking Bad?

No, I’ve never been interested.

Are your fingernails always painted?

They’re never painted. Apparently I’m not gay enough.

What color is your bed frame?

Wood colour lol.

Is the street you live on busy or quiet?

Very quiet. Most of our neighbours are elderly people.

When was the last time you stayed at home all day?

Omg I don’t remember. I’m definitely an outdoors person.

What's your favorite movie genre?

I don’t watch movies.

Do you own any orange clothing?

Yeah, a pair of these parachute cargo trousers. I’ve worn them only once, though.

Have you ever been in an inflatable bouncy house?

No, I haven’t.

How old were you when you bought your first car?

Never had a car on my own.

Did any of your neighbors come over to welcome you when you moved into your current house?

No, it’s not a thing in my country. We’re polite, but as distanced as possible.

Do you have good health insurance?

I have a very good health insurance. Actually I have two, one from work and one private. Thanks to them most of my hospital bills was paid.

When was the last time you opened your bedroom windows?

One of them is open all the time during summer.

Do you have any t-shirts with funny sayings on them?

Yeah, I have one that says “Trust me, I’m an electrician”, and one that says “the boyfriend of your crush”. Also, one that says “I have no idea what I’m doing”.

What's your favorite kind of Girl Scout cookie?

I still don’t even know what it is.

Do you take a daily multivitamin?

We Europeans don’t take any artificial supplements unless there’s a solid medical reason for it.

Have you been sad about anything lately?

Yeah, about not seeing this guy recently. It’s strange how he caught my attention and now he’s someone familiar, and yet I don’t even know his name. But I’m so drawn to him.

Are you a social butterfly, or more of a loner?

I’m a mix of both.

Whats something you didn't realize how bad it was until it happened to you?

A stroke lol. It was the worst experience of all. But also seizures. Such a horrible thing.

What color bra did you wear yesterday?

I’m a dude lol. I don’t ever wear bras.

What are three simple things that make you happy?

The sea, cat purring, beauty of nature.

What was the last thing you cooked that had onions as an ingredient?

Probably a soup.

Do you post your survey answers to anywhere other than bzoink?

I don’t even have bzoink.

What does your father do for a living?

He’s retired.

The last bracelet you wore - what did it look like?

I wear 10 bracelets that I never take off, 4 of them are meant to represent an asexual flag, 5 of them have charms (all 9 of them are string bracelets), and the last one is real silver and has two male symbols connected together, and it’s easy to guess what it represents :P

What can you hear right now?

A TV program.

Have you ever been snorkeling?

No, never.

Are there any trees in your yard?

Trees? Have you ever seen a backyard in an old Belgian house? Two people, two cats and there’s no space left.

How did you first meet the last person you hugged?

We met at work. Five years later, kaboom we’re married.

[nei-ning]

I've been having many weird dreams now recently in couple nights. I don't remember most part of them but I remember faint flashes of images / places in my head.

Like last night. Very long dream but I only remember standing at old, abandoned highway with my brother. I had see through-plastic box which had old camera's battery, small other batteries etc. inside. I tossed it gently to the side of the road to leave it there, coming to get it later, but the plastic box bounced on the road few times, opening and everything from the inside spread on the road, breaking. I was shocked and surprised because they all were so shitty and broke so easily that I cursed out loud in confusion.

Now, tonight's dream (I just woke up from it). Long dream short. I was in big opening under the ground with some kind of ocean, very old / ancient city ruins etc. I needed to get to other ruins across me but the waves were crossing each other, being too strong. I suddenly got big working horse there, I think it was a mare I used to own in real life, and I ride on her to other side by using another way. I had to climb old broken stone stairs, coming to the door of old castle.

I then hear noble man's voice announcing the arrive of princes (all of their first name was William). I got happy about the name since William is also the main character in Nioh 1, a game and a guy which I love a lot. There was a box which had very detailed princesses chocolates, painted dresses, accessories etc. and they were wrapped inside see through plastic. When the noble man announced one princess' name, others got mad, starting to nag. She wasn't as pretty or fancy as the rest of them but she was the one who all princes wanted to meet.

I then met a man in another location. He was taller than I, skinnier but wore nice clothes. We were together but we had to keep it as a secret since his family was VERY religious - and therefor strict - and they never wouldn't had accept me because I'm not religious one bit. We kept meeting secretly, growing older.

We were at this little high "hill" in the middle of the forest, small pond with running water at the base of this "hill". He was without a shirt and I noticed weird spots on his body. He was very sick but kept hiding it - until now. He showed me around because his small house was there. He had a black cat who I managed to greet, petting it. It never allowed visitors to touch itself. We also searched for a missing baby chicken since the grass was so tall at some points. We heard it chirp but suddenly we had to hide under the bed which was placed in the middle of the hillroad. His family had arrived.

This man now turned more older right in front of my eyes, hiding by my side but eventually he crawled out, greeting his family. His father spotted me under the bed, telling me to come out. I did. I don't remember how things went from there but soon there was another man who attacked on my husband. The attacker was like a combination of Predator and Sylvester Stallone. He shot my husband few times and it made me furious. I grabbed this attacker's weird gun, pointed it at him and shot. He fell in the pond, lifting his head. He mumbled of getting shot too many times but I didn't give a damn. I shot him on the forehead from very close to make sure he dies because I knew he would come back if I didn't.

My focus now turned on my husband. I rushed to him, pressing his wounds. His family just stared in shock. I was sobbing and crying, starting to rant softly to the family about love. How love is the strongest and greatest thing on earth and everyone has right for it, religious or not. They shouldn't judge our love only because I'm not religious etc. I looked down at my husband and he wore very small, but extremely gentle and warm smile. I whispered something to him and saw how the light in his eyes left. I knew he just died. It made me so sad but this whole experience, apparently, opened his family's eyes. And hearts.

[johndonneswife]

i just need to vent real quick about how i just had to put $1.5k into my car for repairs (my shit car that’s apparently only worth like 5k so what am i even doing anymore), it’s impossible to get the medicine my cat needs for some unknown stupid fucking reason and i’ve had to run around to 6 pharmacies to refill the script, the toilet in our one bathroom has been broken and our maintenance people keep fucking it up even more every time they try to fix it…they keep coming in during my meetings and my boss acts like i’ve killed a man every time someone walks behind me. fuck off. i’ve been hating my job so much lately but i’m too chicken shit to stop making 6 figures as a corporate sellout and pursue something i might actually fucking enjoy and be poor again. every single time i have to write someone up or make another training about some useless bullshit i die a little inside. my feet are fucked up because i got healthier and lost weight when i started to commit to ED recovery and have been way more active in general (fucking. so stupid. i get why but how fucking dumb is that), i need to get my fucking tonsils out, my grandma is dying and i’m refusing to think about that and this might be the last time i see her but i feel too numb to process it. i need a hug. i need to talk about what i want but every time i try it just sounds too fucking selfish. i’m flying to nyc on friday for a surprise party for my mom’s 60th that 1) i don’t even want to go to 2) i planned all by myself, because my father and sister are useless, even though i told them like 5 times in the past 6 months that i don’t have the time or energy to plan something for her but - here i am - 3 days before her party, talking to vendors and finalizing shit and doing everything by myself, sinking my time and money into something my mom probably won’t even appreciate, all because her stupid fuck ass husband can’t do a fucking thing for her for once in his stupid fucking life because he’s been babied and enabled by her for 30 years and can’t even make one single phone call because it’s too much for him. grow up. the worst part is i will be taking care of all of them - forever - unless i learn how to set boundaries - but i can’t even do that because they will threaten me and guilt me until the end of time. and maybe i’m the one who needs to grow up, actually

[delusionalwritingsofagay]

Stranger things Incorrect Quotes 2

Eddie: BEHOLD, the field in which I grow my fucks! Lay thine eyes upon it, and thou shalt see that it is barren

Will: So apparently the 'bad vibes' I’ve been feeling are actually severe psychological distress

Max : Schrödinger’s cat is overrated. If you wanna see something that’s both dead and alive you can talk to me any time of the day.

Will: Goodnight moon.

will: Goodnight tree.

Will: Goodnight Monsters that only I can see.

Robin: Here's some advice

Nancy: I didn't ask for any

Robin : Too bad. I'm stuck here with my thoughts, and you're the only one who talks to me

Y/N: Ok, maybe playing ‘whose family is most dysfunctional’ wasn’t the best idea we’ve had. Max has been crying in the bathroom for an hour. We can’t get her out...

Steve: If there's going to be a big dramatic scene, wait until I get back.

Dustin: Of course. I can't flip this table by myself.

Y/N: I know you’re deflecting by making jokes about how hot you are.

Steve: It’s not a joke.

Steve: *sniffles*

Steve: I’m a legit snack.

Eddie: So that’s my plan.

Steve: Are you alright with constructive criticism? I don’t want to sound mean.

Eddie: No, go ahead, I want to hear it.

Steve: It fucking sucks.

Eddie: That’s not constructive criticism

Robin: How many kids do you have?

Steve: Biologically, emotionally, or legally?

Steve: Eddie was banned from the chicken shack, so we had to go out of town to get some.

Eddie: Well, they shouldn’t say “all you can eat” if they don’t mean it.

Steve: Eddie, you ate a chair.

Y/n, pointing a camera at Eddie : There they are, our sweet baby.

Eddie, holding a cigarette and a beer: What-?

[incorrect-quotes-2-the-startling]

The Great Mouse Debacle

Dear All, I saw a mouse, where? there in the meeeting room, there in the meeting room right there, etc etc...His name is Malcom and although he is very cute I'm afraid he cannot stay so we need to put some traps down. Also please make sure no food is left out for him - particularly large pieces of cake! - I'm not imagining this as Tupperware, Mysterion and New-Kid also saw him (albeit rather briefly) - Wonder-Tweek

Lets get him! - Fastpass I'm not sure which is more worrying. The mouse in the meeting room, or that Tweek needs reassurance that he's not seeing imaginary critters - Call-Girl

I say we catch him alive and fatten him up for the next milestone feast... - Mosquito MMMMMMMmmmmmmm Chicken - Fastpass I almost stepped on him last week - New-Kid Lets catch him and keep him as a pet. Failing that I could use him as a friend to keep Stripe company. - Super-Craig Leave the mouse alone. He wont hurt ya - Mysterion

I like to wear mice as hats. - Damien Let's make our next game about him. Malcolm the MF Mouse... - Tupperware So that's who's been stinkey'n up the loo and not turning the fan on!!! Of course! He cant reach the fan! - Human-Kite Nor can he aim, apparently. - Tool-Shed Let get the little furry F**K. - Fastpass We can always get a mouse-friendly trap rather than a snappy trap...Although where to dump him when he's caught....? - Call-Girl

OUT THE WINDOOOOOoooowww................. *splat* Just kidding - Mysterion Simple: a combination mouse trap and catapult. *SNAP - SPROING - WHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOSH - . . . . . . . . . . thud* - New-Kid I take it that the “THUD” is you whacking him out of bounds with your baseball bat? - Henrietta shouldn't that be SNAP - SPROING - SQUEAK - WHOOSH? - Professor Chaos Maybe we could invest in a cat. - Human-Kite Down Cartman's trousers! - Super-Craig

I just love the sexy scurry of a lady mouse, Leave the mouse alone, Leave all mice alone, My darlin I, cant get enough of you love baby.... la la la la la - Mysterion No, it should be: SNAP - SPROING - SQUEAK – WHOOSH – ting (microwave done) - New-Kid Did you have a bad mouse experience during your childhood??? - Call-Girl Gee, that X-Box demo would have worked heaps better if they'd thrown a mouse into a room full of mouse traps already primed with other mice, setting off a chain reaction of SNAPs, SQUEAKs and SPROINGs. - Mosquito This is my one line comment. - Doctor Timothy

Maybe we can convince Mysterion to eat it? - Tool-Shed That'll take a lot more convincing then five dollars - Mysterion You can do it! - Fastpass Or we could put it back where it belongs .. plugged into the back of somebody's computer. - New-Kid Hasn't anyone seen Stuart Little??? He could be our ticket to fame and fortune! - The Coon In the sequel to Stuart Little, they're gonna have him infect the happy family with the plague. - Damien

Has anyone ever seen both Cartman and the rat at the same time?... just wondering if there's some secret identity thingy going on. - Human-Kite Maybe he's the little bastard moving everyone's stuff - Tool-Shed So was it the mouse that was sneaking smokes in the toilet? Seems like the poor little thing is getting blamed for everything else - Call-Girl Let's get him! - Fastpass I could use another mouse or two to help power my car... - Mysterion We should cover the room with flour and see where his little tracks lead. Then douse the mongrel in petrol - Damien

nah.. That's not funny.. That's just a bit sick - Mosquito Let's just cover the room in Petrol and light it up now! - New-Kid WOOOHOOO!! An old fashion burnin'! Let me duck home and grab me roastin' trousers - Damien I'm beginning to see the start of the Stinky Meat Project part 2 ;-) - Fastpass Put his little mouse head on a big dirty pike as a warning to others... - Henrietta Lets just all burn our pants. - Mysterion Umm, you go first - Tool-Shed

Let's get him! - Fastpass You all want to jump me now I've burnt my pants huh? - Mysterion One of my friends had a story about his father doing the mouse vs petrol thing when he was young, and with its last chance at revenge, the burning mouse ran into some very long, very dry grass, set the grass alight, and burned down a whole farm.. crops, machinery, house, and also the people who owned it... - New-Kid hahahahaha cooooooool - Damien See, vicious little mongrels, mice. Burn your house down soon as look at you. They're dangerous! Arsonists! Satanists! They must be stopped, before it's too late. It's us or them. [oh, and I'm always available for a pants burning. name a time] - Mosquito

Let's get him! - Fastpass Release your anger and complete the journey to the dark side... - Mysterion Why don't we just get HIM? - Tupperware That's not the mouse you are looking for.. Move along, move along. - Human-Kite Let's get him! - Fastpass I don't think Mysterion needs any help releasing . . . - Call-Girl Certainly not releasing so much as restraining. - Tool-Shed Has anyone heard the one about the mouse and giraffe that met in a bar? - Mosquito

Yep - Tupperware I think we should all try and get out of the HQ a little more - Call-Girl Woowoo! Call-Girl said we can all go home! - The Coon Let get HIM then! - Fastpass Let's have pants burning as a random encounter, or even a full mission. Somebody keeps sneaking into the base and setting fire to peoples pants - Tupperware There isn't really a mouse. I just made the whole thing up lol - Tweek THERE IS NOW DAMMIT!!! - Damien

Lets get Tweek then? - Fastpass Blah blah blah! - Doctor Timothy Dracula impressions? Really? - Super-Craig blah blah blah, dude! (keanu in dracula) - Tupperware If it was MY mouse, Id say like: Get back in the kitchen and cook me some pie bee-atch - The Coon You have a pie-cooking mouse? - Human-Kite Yeah of course I do - The Coon

If you don't mind I'd like to borrow it for the night. - Tool-Shed

You need help. - Call-Girl

That's WHY I need the mouse . . I feel he could add some valuable insights into my non-existent social life - Tool-Shed

Let's just set up a big barbed wire cage (or even better, a dome) and have a sort of last man standing dealie. The winner gets to eat the mouse... - Mosquito

I'm in - Damien

Are we fighting the mouse or each other? - New-Kid

I assumed the idea was to beat each other to a bloody pulp. - Damien

Sure, but I've always wanted to compete versus a rodent [I might actually have a chance of winning]. - Mosquito Aaaaaargh! - Doctor Timothy "I'm not imagining this as Tupperware, Mysterion and New-Kid also saw him (albeit rather briefly)" I'd just like to categorically deny ever seeing a mouse. Tweek is a loon. - Mysterion Catch mE IF you cann!!!! i'Ve BEEEN crappping in YoUr Koffee for ^Wee&ks. HAR HAR HAR HAR!!!! The MOuS!!!!-----

[juminsmysticmc]

mc with jumin whose company went bankrupt

Jumin x Mc with C&R going Bankrupt

Ouhhhh, this one was an exciting request, I hope you like it just as much as I do! Have fun reading and tell me your opinion!

You groaned as you opened your eyes, meeting the sunny weather. Your hand slowly tapped Jumin’s half of the bed, realizing that once again his part was empty and cold, making you withdraw your hand. Loudly sighing, you tried to get up slowly on your own. Lately, everything was hard on the both of you. Jumin wasn’t often at home, even though you needed him the most, but not just you, his pregnant wife but also C&R. The company was facing a difficult time. After your marriage you started to work in the company too as Jumin saw how competent you were. You supported Jaehee with her work and advised Jumin in a few decisions. However, the company didn’t have the best image thanks to the Chairman who was often involved in scandals, making a lot of partners change.

,,It’s logical. Imagine Seven is a good person, knows how to handle his business and can handle every single security based error. He is the best in that department.’’ ,,Thanks Mc-’’ ,,Shut up, she is explaining, I bet this is something she learned overseas,’’ Zen tried to make the red haired man shut up as you guys had a RFA meeting. However, you somehow ended up talking about the company. ,,But Seven is known for his tasteless prank. He doesn’t even seem like someone who knows what security means,’’ you told Jumin, hurting Seven’s feelings. ,,What does this have to do with Seven? He isn’t even a partner of C&R,’’ Yoosung asked as he took his chicken in his hands to take a bite. ,,Right. Seven isn’t, but we are. Our image is crumbling because of Chairman Han. Of course I love him as a father-in-law, but his scandals are destroying the company’s reputation. No one would care if he wouldn’t always date big famous girls. This of course doesn’t have anything to do with the know-how of the company, but other people are scared that if they work with us, their company will be in a bad light too and so they won't work with us at all. Even worse, imagine someone would buy our goods and one day we go bankrupt. They would have a big problem too. It can happen to anyone, but for us it’s a bigger possibility as we have this image problem,’’ 

Back then you didn’t know how right you were. Ever since you got pregnant, Jumin made it possible that you could stay at home and rest as you had a rather complicated health situation. Since then he barely talked about C&R, but instead about your daily life. ,,Jumin..?’’ you called, seeing the white cat licking her paw as you slowly walked through the living room. You shrugged with your shoulders. Apparently you were alone. 

,,But Daddy always makes sure to leave a note, right?’’ you asked your baby and of course you didn’t get an answer, but just a light kick. You decided to just do what you always did and made yourself some breakfast and turned on the radio to get ready, but suddenly you let go of the plate as you heard shocking news.

,,The supposed heir of the company C&R, son of Chairman Han, Jumin Han stated today that his company was bankrupt. This was sudden news for everyone in South Korea and world wide. How could such a big company have so many-’’ it didn’t take you long until you turned off the radio and instead called Jumin, who of course didn’t take the call. Instead you entered the chatroom, seeing that luckily Jaehee was online.

,,Jaehee!’’ your fingers quickly typed on the display. You were shivering, scared, but not because of your existence. You weren’t scared at all, but you were more worried for Jumin. You knew how much he loved the company, how much it meant to him, and now… ,,Mc… I’m sorry we didn’t tell you anything but…’’ she sent the message without adding anything. ,,Jaehee, how is Jumin?’’ you asked her and suddenly you felt a sharp pain in your heart. Before she could answer anything, you informed her that you would come right away. And usually Jaehee would try to hold you back, however, this time your friend and co-worker as well as your husband’s assistant, agreed and thanked you. The situation was worse than you thought.

Driver Kim picked you up and helped you in as he also made sure that you could enter the company without the paparazzi seeing you. ,,Mc… how?’’ Jumin mumbled as Jaehee let you in. He was just resting his head on his hands on the desk in front of him. He looked pale and… devastated. ,,Why didn’t you tell me anything?’’ you asked him, approaching him as you stroked his face. His cheeks were wet.  Had he been crying? ,,You… you’re stressed enough…’’ he whimpered. You could feel his hands shiver as you took him into your embrace. ,,Jumin, I am your wife… let me worry for you at least…’’ you sobbed and as you began to cry, Jumin too let go of his pain.

,,It’s gone… just like you said… no one wanted to work with us anymore, people demanded more and more money… And I was… scared,’’ he mumbled. ,,What do you mean…?’’ you asked him. You were sure that Jumin did have enough money to save C&R if you guys really were bankrupt. How could he- ,,You didn’t invest into the company anymore?’’ you asked him, whispering, scared someone could hear you. Jumin looked at you, nodding. ,,I… I am… I feel so bad but… you’re pregnant… we’ll become parents soon. If I would have saved the company, all my money would have been gone and, how can this help me if my father already destroyed the company? This is a hopeless case… I just had to give it up…’’ he sobbed and you knew that Jumin made a decision based on you and your child, not his own family or something he owned.

,,Jumin…’’ you began, ,,you did well… you decided something so difficult on your own. You… you decided to take a hard path instead of the short cut and I am so proud… and you know what? We can just take it and go… let's make this baby grow up in a different environment. I know that you have what it takes to have your own company. We can do it better with the two of you,’’ you whispered and suddenly you had the feeling that Jumin seemed… happier. ,,You… do you mean it?’’ he asked you.

It was hard. Chairman Han was… furious. Jumin stood strongly in front of you as his father threw every possible bad word at him. But when he began to badmouth you and the baby you were carrying… Jumin saw red. ,,Father! I forbid you from badmouthing my wife and accusing her of cheating or manipulating me! You should look at yourself! This company ended this way because you were unable to keep it alive. If someone is at fault… that person is you, Chairman Han! I resign! I will open my own company! Ask your other children to clean your mess!’’ he hissed and took your hand. The sight of you tearing up was breaking his heart, but he knew, as soon as he took you out of there, the both of you would finally begin to live your own life…

,,Mr Han…’’ Jaehee began as you rested on the couch, your legs on the table in front of you as you observed Jumin packing his stuff. You wanted to help him, but he didn’t let you. Regardless, you were too tired either way. ,,You are a really… bad boss,’’ she said, making him look up. ,,And I know that you only took me as assistant because I didn’t seem attractive enough for Chairman Han to… well, we both know why you chose me, because-’’ ,,You are a hardworking woman because I can trust you and your knowledge and because you were the only one who needed what I needed at some point. But I can understand if you want to go. I will make sure to pay you with my own money and also pay your overtime hours and -’’ ,,But I will go with you and help you because if I leave my work to my friend, Mc...she will leave you for sure,’’ Jaehee joked, making you laugh.

Jumin smiled. ,,I will make sure that you won’t regret choosing me as your boss once again,’’ he nodded. ,,Well, I already regret it so… I want 30% more than here. I want 35 hours a week with 35 days off in the year and I want to have money for every hour I work overtime and I beg you, never ever leave your cat with me again,’’ Jaehee said, making Jumin look… rather surprised. ,,Guess Jaehee grew over the years with you. Give her what she demands, Jumin!’’ you laughed and observed how she packed her stuff. Jumin and Jaehee worked on a new concept, talked to banks, made layouts, and searched for new people. Yoosung was one of them, as well as Seven, who was in charge of IT.

,,The website looks like shit, Seven,’’ you moaned as you told him what to change. ,,I never knew that people who work in marketing and social media design are like this…’’ he mumbled and tried to change what you demanded from him. ,,Customer Relation Management, Yoosung, you have to make sure that you know what it is!’’ you tried to explain while he massaged your shoulders. ,,Mc, you are such a strict teacher,’’ he sobbed as you explained what he needed to know step for step. Jumin looked around himself. This was going to be his new company with the people he loved around him. ,,Of course this will be a good start, I’m the face of the company,’’ Zen mumbled as he went through the pictures Jihuyn took for the ad.

ᗰᗩᔕTEᖇᒪIᔕT

27.08.2021// 22:59 MEST

[jerzwriter]

Men of Hopkins

Book: Open Heart

Characters: Tobias x Casey, Ethan

Rating: Teen

Summary: Tobias keeps teasing Casey about an embarrassing secret from her past. She asks Ethan to share some dirt on his old friend, when he refuses she’s undeterred. What she uncovers is shocking… and she learns why Ethan didn’t want it unearthed after all.

Category: Fluff – AU – One-Shot

Warnings: Language

A/N: Reader request for Flufftober Day 7 – Embarrassing secret – Tobias x Casey pairing. This is all for fun.

A/N 2: DTI readers – I incorporated our beloved Vivian into this story. She is helping Casey get her revenge. 😊

A/N 3: You may want to check this out just for the photos. lol

CHARACTERS BELONG TO PIXELBERRY STUDIOS

If you wish to be added or removed from tags, please let me know. Comments and reblogs always appreciated. 😊

It was already dark when Casey arrived at Donahue’s, it wasn’t fun having the late shift on a Friday. But the one benefit was everyone was already tipsy when she arrived, and it was amusing to watch.

“Hey, Reg! I was going to ask for a beer, but by the sound of things, I think I have some serious catching up to do out there. Maybe something stronger is in order?”

“Oh, you’ve missed quite a night! I don’t know what’s going on out there, but they’ve been laughing so hard, I’ve been tempted to walk out there and join them.”

“I’ll tell you what, give me a gin and tonic and I’ll report back to you when I come for round two.”

“I can always count on you, Casey!”

“You know it!”

She turned to find Ethan, somberly seated on his usual barstool.

“Ethan, what are you doing in here?”

“You're a brilliant doctor and quite observant, what does it look like I’m doing?”

“It looks like you’re being a stick in the mud when you could be out there laughing with everyone.”

“Eh, they’re not as funny as they think they are.”

“Well, how would you know that if you're sitting in here? Come on, you’re coming with me.”

“No, I’m not.”

“Ethan, I could go out and ask Tobias to get you out there. Who would you rather deal with, me or him?”

“You’re ruthless MacTavish. At least let me get another scotch first, I think I’ll need it.”

Casey rolled her eyes, “Come on, Dr. Grumps, I’ll get you to smile yet.”

When they stepped into the beer garden, it was filled with uproarious laughter.

“… and then I told him, this is just not worth minimum wage… I tossed the chicken suit on the floor and walked out,” Bryce laughed.

“Oh my God, Bryce, tell me you had clothes on under the chicken suit when you did this,” Aurora asked.

“Do tighty whitey’s count?

“Absolutely not," Jackie shuddered.

“Then, no. No clothes.”

He looked up and saw Casey making her way over with Ethan in tow.

“Hey! Look what the cat dragged in!”

“Well, it looks like it dragged Dr. Ramsey in, but Casey appears to be joining us willingly,” Elijah laughed.

“I am here under duress,” Ethan smirked.

Tobias shook his head good-naturedly. “Oh, stop being such an old man! I remember when you were actually fun!”

“Shit, that makes you ancient too, Tobias,” Jackie laughed.

Casey nudged her as she walked by.

“Hey, you leave my boyfriend alone.”

“You tell her, baby,” Tobias smiled as he pat his lap, beckoning Casey to come over.

“Were they being mean to you, babe," she said sitting on his lap.

“So freaking mean!”

Ethan raised his eyebrows. “Then I guess Casey was right, I should have been out here the whole time. I would have enjoyed that.”

“You see, Ethan! I told you that you didn’t know what you were missing!” she grinned.

“Hey, are you encouraging more people to abuse me?”

“Only if it’s good-naturedly. So, I know I heard something about tighty whitey’s, a chicken suit… and Bryce? What the hell did I miss, and do I need to drink a little more before you tell me?”

Sienna jumped in. “We were just discussing all the embarrassing jobs we had to get us through college and med school.”

“Yeah,” Tobias laughed, “and apparently our boy wonder here worked at Clucks-R-Us. He was the head chicken.”

“You must be joking!”

“Casey,” Bryce replied, “there is no shame in being a chicken. However, when they decided I had to start clucking happy birthday to customers too…”

“Then you just said cluck you!” Casey interrupted.

Everyone began laughing, except Ethan, who just smirked and shook his head.

“Ah, Case, it’s always more fun when you arrive,” Tobias chuckled.

“For you, obviously,” Jackie replied snidely, “for the rest of us, no offence Case, but it’s no big deal.”

“Jackie, I’m hurt!”

“So, what embarrassing gigs did you have, Casey?" Bryce asked. "Share with the class.”

“I mean, mine are fairly benign. I worked in The Strand bookstore most of college, and in med school I tutored, it helped keep my own skills sharp. So nothing outlandish.”

“Oh, my fellow dolphin, I love you so much, but you are so holding out.”

“I am?”

Sienna started humming to the tune of Car Wash.

“Oh, Geeze, I forgot about that!”

“Forgot, or purposely blocked it from memory?” Jackie added.

“It is definitely the latter,” Sienna giggled.

“OK, Babe, you know we have to know now, right?”

Casey let out a sigh as her cheeks began turning red.

“Fine, whatever. When I was a freshman in college… a freshman… a mere child who did not know better…”

“Stop stalling,” Bryce yelled.

Casey shot him a look. “Hush chicken boy! One summer I worked as…”

“As…?” Ethan asked.

“Oh, and suddenly you’re Mr. Conversation! I worked at this car wash that was…”

“Tell me you weren’t in a bikini and heels, Casey?” Aurora said covering her eyes.

“Shit, I don’t know if she was, but I know how we’re washing my car next time," Tobias grinned.

Casey smacked him. “No, it wasn’t like that at all. I was in NY, and this was on the outskirts along the river, because there are no car washes in the heart of Manhattan…”

“You’re stalling,” Tobias chided.

“And you’re not going to be getting any later, Tobias! Now, where was I? Oh, yes! It was theater-themed.”

“Theater themed?” Elijah asked.

“Yes… and I… I used to wash cars dressed as Little Orphan Annie while I sang Tomorrow. There. Are you satisfied?”

“Satisfied? God no!” Bryce said laughing, “I’m not going to be satisfied until I see video of that!”

“Fortunately, none exist… that I know of.”

Tobias snickered and nodded his head. “Yeah, we all have things we are grateful aren’t ‘out there.”

“Yeah, then what’s yours?” Jackie asked.

“That… is none of your business.”

“It may not be hers, but it is mine!” Casey smiled.

“Baby, you don’t need to know everything that existed before you. Now if you could stand for a moment, I need to use the little boys room.”

“I think I’ll join you,” Ethan said, eager to get out before they began questioning him.

Bryce watched Tobias suspiciously as he walked away.

“He bolted out of here too soon! He’s hiding something. He’s hiding something good.”

“I’m getting that vibe too," Jackie agreed. "What are you going to do about it, Casey?”

“I don’t know yet, but we have to find out.”

“Hell yeah!” she said giving her friend a high five.

“I’m sure you could get Ethan to provide at least some hints,” Sienna whispered.

“I’m a step ahead of you,” Casey’s thumbs were moving fast over her phone. “I just ordered his favorite cinnamon buns. I'll pick them up on the work tomorrow morning.”

“Buttering up the boss,” Bryce laughed, “have you no shame?”

“The boy in the chicken suit is asking Little Orphan Annie with a power washer if she has any shame. That’s priceless,” Elijah cackled.

“He’s got a point…”

____________________

Monday morning arrived and Casey was extra chipper when arrived at Edenbrook. Finding embarrassing dirt on her boyfriend was her current mission in life, and for some reason, the quest had her especially giddy.

“Hi, Ethan!” She beamed as she plopped the cinnamon buns on the table. “How are you doing today?”

“Are those…”

“They most certainly are!”

“Well, I’m doing better now!”

He ran over to the table as if he were afraid someone would eat them all before he got there.

“You know it’s just us here, right Ethan? And I’m not going to try to take any from you.”

He looked up red-faced.

“I’m aware of that, but… OK, can’t we just hide them from Tobias & Harper? We don’t have to let them know you brought any; it could be our little secret.”

She rolled her eyes. “Hey, I’m willing to give you the whole box and walk away if you can help me out.”

“I’m intrigued. Talk."

“I need dirt on Tobias. He's being relentless. I spent the whole weekend with him asking me to call him Daddy Warbucks! I need something to counter him.”

“Casey. If you want to bribe me with cinnamon buns, you should refrain from saying things that will make me completely lose my appetite and that, my little protégé, made me completely lose my appetite.”

“Point taken. But come on, Ethan, you were in med school together. You must have something you could share with me.”

“Sorry, MacTavish. No can do.”

“Ethan, really?! You live to bust his chops. You're always one-upping each other. And now, in my hour of need, you decide to call a détente?”

“Casey, Tobias did many crazy things in med school. But, honestly, I don’t think there is a single one that he would be embarrassed about. He’d probably brag about most of them. It's Tobias. So I am afraid I can’t help you.”

Casey grabbed a cinnamon bun away from Ethan just as he was about to take a bite.

“Give me that,” she laughed.

“I write your performance review.”

“As I said, help yourself to as many buns as you like."

____________________

Casey remained undeterred. Since she was very close with his mother, Vivian, she knew she could enlist her help. If Vivian knew that Tobias was teasing her, she would probably want in on the action.

No time like the present! She took out her phone.

“Vivian, It’s Casey.”

“Casey, my beautiful daughter-in-law, to what do I owe this pleasure.”

“Vivian, how many times do we have to tell you, we’re not married.”

“Technicalities, dear, technicalities.”

“Well, what if I told you I’d be more inclined to push for it if you gave me a hand with something?”

“I’d say you should know better than to try to pull one over on me, but I’m intrigued. What is it you need my help with?”

“Your son is torturing me. He found out I worked in a Broadway-themed carwash in college…”

“Did you say Broadway-themed carwash?”

“I did. I was Little Orphan Annie, and I sang Tomorrow as I washed cars.”

“Dear Lord, perhaps I don’t want you marrying into the family after all.”

“Oh, come on, Vivian, if that’s the darkest of skeletons in my closet!”

“I am kidding! I actually think it’s charming!”

“Yeah, well your son is now prancing around the apartment demanding I call him Daddy Warbucks.”

“Casey, for god's sake, I don’t want to hear about your sex life.”

“Huh.. what? NO! I didn’t mean… ugh! Vivian, I am just trying to find something embarrassing from his past so I can balance things out here. Can you help me?”

“Darling, my son has spent a lifetime embarrassing himself for sport, and you need me to provide you with examples? I thought you were a diagnostician?”

Casey sighed, “I am. You know what, never mind, I’ll just call him Daddy Warbucks until he gets bored…” she stopped, a wicked grin spreading on her face. "Or until I get tired of it and just decide to move on. There is only so much a girl can take, and it’s not like I have a ring on my finger, yet”

“Do you think I don’t see right through this?”

“Please, Vivian… please.”

“OK, my dear, here is what we can do. When the two of you come down this weekend, I’ll make some excuse to get him out of the townhouse. I'll leave a box on the floor in my study. It’s his college and med school memorabilia, if you can’t find something in there, then maybe I don't want you birthing my grandchildren.”

“You are an angel, Vivian!”

“I know this, love. Now you go on home and talk to my son about what shape diamond is your favorite. Go."

"I'm all over it,” she said rolling her eyes.

Casey hung up and grinned, this weekend was looking to be more exciting than it was before.

____________________

A day into their stay, Vivian announced that she’d like some mother/son bonding time, so she arranged for them to have lunch together.

“What? But you like Casey better than me.”

“While that may be true, that doesn’t mean I don’t want to spend some quality time with my son.”

“I think it’s a good idea,” Casey chimed in, “perhaps she will grow to like you more again.”

“Unlikely,” Vivian deadpanned, “but are you about to say no to your mother?”

“Yeah, I know better than that.”

Tobias gave Casey a kiss on the forehead. “If I’m not back in two hours, notify the authorities.”

“As if I’d kill you before you’re legally wed.”

“On that note, don’t we have a reservation to get to… mother.”

Vivian winked and gave Casey a thumbs up as she stepped out the door. The truth of that matter was, she wanted more to tease her son about as much, if not more, than Casey did.

Casey watched as their car drove off, then she rushed into Vivian’s study. The large box was on the floor in the corner, just like Vivian promised and Casey went right to work. There were a few yearbooks, a t-shirt or two, ticket stubs from concerts he attended, a picture of him and an ex-girlfriend (Yeah, I’m hotter, Casey thought), a few old term papers… all standard college/med school fare. She was beginning to get discouraged when a manilla envelope caught her eye. She opened it up and a bunch of photos fell to the floor.

Casey covered her mouth and gasped.

“Oh, my God!”

“Holy shit,” Casey picked them up from the floor one by one. Tobias posting in a speedo, one laying suggestively with no shirt on, one of him, apparently naked, posing for… an art class, and one close up… oh, she may want to frame that one… she thought. But what the heck were these for?

She stuck her hand into the envelope and pulled out some papers, receipts, notes, mail, nothing… a ha!

Dear Mr. Carrick,

We have enclosed the photos from your shoot. You will need to select two shots, one that will be used for the calendar, and one that will be used for advertising and marketing. Please return these to us no later than Wednesday, the 24th of October. We look forward to hearing from you.

John Smith Collegiate Hunks, LLC

Casey needed to take a moment ….

Photo session. Calendar… Collegiate Hunks????

“And this man was teasing me over Little Orphan Annie!” she said out loud. “Oh, myyyy….”

She looked through the box hoping to find the calendar, but she came up empty. She put the contents back, save the photos and the letter, and then she took to her phone.

Google Search: Tobias Carrick Collegiate Calendar, nothing. Tobias Carrick Johns Hopkins, nothing alluding to a calendar. Johns Hopkins calendar, just buildings, and grounds. UGH. There had to be information on this someplace! She decided to stuff this evidence into her bag and do some more investigating once she was back in Boston.

_______________

That investigating began with one Dr. Ethan Ramsey. She found him sitting alone in the back of the mostly empty cafeteria, the perfect time to get him!

“Ethan!” she said exuberantly as she jumped into the chair next to him.

Ethan jumped and looked up from his journal, clearly annoyed.

“I hope you have a good reason for interrupting me.”

“Oh, stop. Put curmudgeon attending Ethan away and let my friend Ethan come out for a quick visit. I need his help.”

“What?” He said with a sigh.

“Remember I said I wanted to get dirt on Tobias?”

“Are we still on this?”

“Of course! But I got it.”

“You got it?”

“Yes, what do you know about a Men of Hopkins calendar?”

Ethan choked on his coffee.

“A… a… what?”

“A Men of Hopkins calendar! Apparently, Tobias posed for it when he was in med school. I found some of the pictures. Oh my God, I was dying. I mean, not because he wasn’t hot. He was hot as fuck, I may frame some….”

Ethan winced and pinched the bridge of his nose.

“Could we not talk about…”

“… I’m sorry, I digress. But I need to find this calendar! I’ve scanned the web. The company that made the calendar is now out of business, but you must know SOMEONE who still has one. Don’t you? Please????”

“Casey, I don’t know… I don’t… I… do you really think this is a good idea? Don’t you think Tobias will be upset, I mean, this is an invasion of privacy.”

“His Mom helped me.”

“VIVIAN! Vivian helped you! Does Vivian know about this?”

“Well, she does now.”

“This... this is... and how did she react?”

“Well, she went on and on about how it was unbecoming for a Carrick for a good ten minutes, and then she sat back and laughed her butt off for the next fifteen. She can’t wait for me to drop this bomb so she can tease him too. So, what do you know?”

“I know it was for charity, and that’s it. And no, I don’t know where you can get one and I’m happy about that! The last thing I need is that sort of attention being brought to our team.”

“Ethan, do you think anyone would really care?”

“I’d care. Let it go, Casey. It’s in the past. Let. It. Go. Now, if you don’t mind, I have rounds to make.”

“Jesus, that man has no sense of humor.”

____________________

Casey had only let Sienna in on the news, so far. And 00 Tiny went into spy mode as much as her best friend.

“Casey! I found out that Collegiate Hunks was purchased by another company, ABC Calendars three years ago. Maybe they can help?”

Three hours and one credit card payment of $25.99 later, Casey was the proud owner of a 2008 Men of Hopkins calendar. All she needed to do was wait for delivery. It was hard for her to hide her devilish grin when she was around Tobias, but she did. This was going to be so much fun.

____________________

Three days later the package arrived.

“Sienna! Sienna” Casey yelled knocking on her bedroom door. “It’s here.”

“OMG, It’s here!”

“Yes! Well, get in here, and let's open it!”

Casey tore through the packaging and the two women fell over onto Sienna's bed in a fit of giggles. "It's Raining Hopkins Men”.

“Could this be cheesier!” Sienna laughed.

“I’m not sure, but I want to see which photo Tobias ended up picking. OK, January… not him. February… not him.”

“Oh, wait Casey! Don’t turn the page for a sec. My God, he’s hot, and he’s a doctor, and Tobias must know him. You MUST help me find him.”

“And I’d be happy to help you do so after we finish the task at hand.”

“Of course, please keep turning…”

“OK, March…”

“Huuuuh!” They both gasped.

“OH MY GOD CASEY! Does he still look like that? Because if he does… oh my God, you’re a lucky woman.”

“Holy. Shit.”

“Did you already see this photo?”

“No, it wasn’t in the ones I found. Holy shit! Now, why did he keep this from me? It’s not like he’s shy, I would have thought he’d be bragging about it, perhaps have it framed over his mantle. It makes no sense.”

“Got me, if I were him, I’d never put a shirt on, ever.”

“Sienna, that’s my boyfriend.”

“And you’re so lucky.”

Casey was pacing the floor with nervous excitement, thinking of the perfect way to spring this on Tobias as Sienna kept thumbing through the calendar.

“AAAAGGGHHHH!”

“Si, What?”

“Oh my God! Oh my God! OH. MY. GOD!!!!!”

“What is it?” Casey said pulling the calendar from Sienna’s hands.

“AAAAGGGHHHH!”

“I told you!”

“OH. MY. GOD!!!!! It’s Ethan!”

“OK, I could totally see Tobias doing this, no offense.”

“None taken,” Casey replied.

“But ETHAN? Ethan Ramsey?”

“This is why he didn’t want me to find it. Now it all makes sense.”

“Are you going to tell him?”

“Oh, you bet your ass I am.”

“OK, I could totally see Tobias doing this, no offense.”

“None taken,” Casey replied.

“But ETHAN? The Ethan Ramsey? In a SPEEDO? Posing for a calendar?"

“I'm, I'm... I don't know what to say! This is why he didn’t want me to find it. Now it all makes sense.”

“Are you going to tell him?”

“Oh, you bet your ass I am.”

____________________

Casey double-checked the next day's schedule and confirmed that Harper was off. Since it would just be the three of them in the office, it was the perfect opportunity. She safely tucked the calendar away in a folder and put it in her attaché. As much as she wanted to tease the guys, she didn’t want to let anyone else to see it. She was grinning from ear to ear when she walked into the office.

“Hey,” Tobias beamed, he hated being at work where he couldn’t kiss her hello, a wink would have to do.

“Casey, you’re early,” Ethan said, not looking up from his paperwork.

“Yep, and I brought cinnamon rolls.”

That caught Ethan’s attention.

“Again? Is it a celebration?”

“Mmmm, no. But let’s just say I have an interesting case we need to look over and, I figured a little treat may help. You know like in Mary Poppins, a spoon full of sugar helps the medicine go down?”

“You gonna sing that, like you did Annie, babe?” Tobias laughed.

“Oh, no dear. My singing career is in the past. And that’s where it is going to stay.”

“Always a good thing,” Ethan mumbled. “So, this case you have?”

“Oh, yes,” Casey grinned as she threw a folder on the table.

Ethan opened it first, his eyes grew to the size of saucers as a look of horror spread across his face. At first, every bit of color drained from his face, but it was quickly replaced with the brightest crimson.

“Geez, Ethan you look like you’ve seen a ghost, give that here and let me take a …..”

Tobias took the folder out of his hands and his eyes bulged, but after a moment, a smirk came across his face and he began to chuckle.

“You found this?”

“Sure did.”

“I’m duly impressed, baby. Just remind me, I can never get anything past you."

“And I’m duly horrified! Horrified!”

Ethan was up from his seat pacing the floor, mumbling incoherently under his breath.

“Oh, Ethan, you have nothing to be horrified over, you had it going on,” Tobias laughed.

"Actually, Tobias, I did not have enough on, that's part of the problem."

“Ethan, I have to ask, Tobias, I can see doing this, but you? How the heck did you end up doing this?”

“It was for a good cause, the money went to the children’s clinic at Hopkins. I have a heart, Casey."

“I'm well aware of that. But I could see you doing a million other things to help, but not this.”

“Her name was Sydney Carrington.” Tobias laughed.

“Oooohh…”

“Thanks, Tobias.”

“So, who was Sydney, Ethan?”

“My girlfriend at the time.”

“And she wanted you to do the calendar?" Casey asked. "I mean, I don’t blame her. I’d want to show off that my boyfriend was this hot too.”

"Would you have shown me off, baby?" Tobias interrupted.

"Of course, dear," she said patting his head. "Now, back to Sydney."

“She believed in the cause.”

“But how did she get you to do it?”

“I was… I was… oh the hell with it, I have no dignity left anyway.”

“Ethan, your amongst friends, relax,” Tobias laughed.

“I was promised… stuff.”

“Stuff?”

“Yes, stuff… everyday… for a defined period of time.”

Casey laughed so hard tears began forming in the corners of her eyes.

“Oh my God, were you that easy?”

Tobias stepped in to defend his friend, “Hey, we were med school students under a lot of pressure in our twenty’s for God’s sake. You know what it was like, could you have been bought that easily?”

“Hmmm… if he looked like Mr. March, perhaps,” Casey winked.

“OK, you two, both of you out of the office. Now.”

Ethan took the calendar and began putting it in his desk.

“OH NO! Oh no, sir, that is mine. I plopped down the $25.99 and it is mine. Don't think I'm giving up those photos! In addition to you two, Mr. November had it going on.”

Tobias took the calendar and flipped to November. “Avery! Jackson Avery? You think he had it going on.”

“Damn straight he did. Where is he now?”

“I’m not telling you!”

“So, would you guys would consider a Men of Edenbrook calendar? I mean, the nurses alone would probably spend enough to finance a new wing. They're always drooling at the two of you."

"I told you to get out!”

Casey turned and smiled at Ethan from over her shoulder, “Don’t worry Ethan, I really won’t tell a soul.”

“Does that apply to me too?” Tobias asked.

“Oh, hell no, Daddy Warbucks.”

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[theboyzuniverse]

Finding Love (Part 1)

POV: You're part of a co-ed K-pop group called Boyz and Girlz aka BGZ, which consists of 11 boys and 3 girls. The 3 girls are Hyeri (97 liner), Eli (98 liner), and Y/N, maknae of the whole group. The girls dorm is a small apartment slightly apart from the boys for privacy, but it is connected to the boys dorm by a common living room, and there's also a shared kitchen to promote good team-work.

The whole dorm was quiet when you got home from your morning walk with Sunwoo and Eric. Haknyeon was in the kitchen half eating, half asleep. Everyone else was probably at the gym. It was a free day for you guys but no one ever really slept in on off days except for Eric who you had forced to wake up, that boy is one hell of a heavy sleeper.

"I'm gonna go back to sleep," Eric muttered.

"Ew, take a shower first." You told him, "And don't fall asleep in there."

"No promises."

You head back to your room to wash up, then headed back to get something to eat. Haknyeon was face-down on the table when you went to the kitchen, you gently wake him up to tell him to head back to his room. He complies easily and you giggle at the way he walks like a zombie.

"I'm gonna play some games today, wanna join?" Sunwoo asked.

"Maybe later, I wanted to do a V-Live today."

Sunwoo and Eric were your bestfriends, you were in the same class and went to the same school before you all graduated together. It was because of them that you didn't have much girlfriends, because you always hung out with either them or their guy friends.

"I'm home!" You heard Juyeon shout as he slammed the door.

"No one cares!" Sunwoo shouted back as he headed back to his room with two juice pouches.

"Wanna do a live with me?" You asked Juyeon as he comes into the kitchen.

"Sure," He replied immediately.

Your oppas and unnies rarely said no to you, and you had to admit you were a brat sometimes but they loved you anyway. You loved them just the same.

"Where is everybody?" He asked you surprised at the quietness of the dorm.

"I don't know, probably at the gym. Sunwoo's playing games, and Eric and Haknyeon are sleeping."

"So everything's still the same."

"You were gone for a week oppa, not a whole year."

He smiled that little smile that the fans loved so much. It really did make him look like a little cat boy, well not so little. Juyeon had gone home for a week for his cousin's marriage, and you had to admit that even though it was just a week as you mentioned, you had really missed him. Juyeon was the type of person who paid attention to the people around him, he adored all of you and always showed it even though he himself might not be aware.

"I'll go wash up, come when you wanna do it."

"Aren't you hungry?"

"I'll just order some food later."

"Order for me too."

"I thought you already ate."

"Yeah, but I wanna eat again. Chicken okay?"

He laughed, "Okay, aegi."

It was a nickname that Sunwoo had started for you because you were the maknae, regardless of the fact that he was only a few months older than you. They all babied you so you couldn't help feeling like their baby sometimes.

The members all arrived home as you were about to head to Juyeon's room for the live, and the chaos that ensues when all the members were home immediately started. Chanhee and Changmin were bickering about which one of them was supposed to buy milk while Sunwoo was shouting at Kevin in the room not to disturb him, Kevin was also a brat sometimes.

"Y/N, is Juyeon home?" Hyeri asked you amidst the chaos.

"Yeah, we're gonna do a live."

"Okay, you guys can have this."

She hands you two big slices of cake. Apparently they all went shopping for food after going to the gym. You stand there, plate in your hand, confused.

"What's this for?" You asked, they rarely bought cake unless it was for someone's birthday.

"Just a special treat, no reason." Sangyeon answered.

"Okay," You shrugged as you head to Juyeon's room. "They're so loud, but I can't even complain."

Juyeon laughs at you knowing what you mean. You were one of the noisiest members so you couldn't even really complain about the chaos. However, there were times you wished for some peace.

"Are you ready?"

"Yeah."

He starts the live and the viewers tune in little by little. You could see a lot of ship comments but of course you had to pretend not to see some of them. Shippers were inevitable, especially being a co-ed group. All of you were constantly paired together, but you had noticed lately how many comments there were about you and Juyeon.

"Everyone, should we do a question and answer round today?"

Juyeon and you took turns to read and answer questions. Most of them were about new songs or our current favourite dramas or songs, and even asking you to sing. Then there were the ones asking about other members, and then the shippers, the ones who made you most nervous. Juyeon had always been surprisingly good at handling these, he was natural. The things he's good at he was really good, but if there's something he was bad at, the boy was utter chaos.

"Pose for screenshots," You read a comment that had popped up several times.

Juyeon immediately leaned over to do a heart with you, and you complied. You did little winks and acted cute, of course the fans loved that and it made Juyeon smile, which warmed your heart. If it was any other member they would've playfully cringed at you but Juyeon was just too sweet.

You end the live after about an hour, now a little hungry so you both order some chicken and coke. You lie down on his bed as he pulls you into a tight hug that had you gasping for air. The whole group was pretty cuddly and free with skinship, but Juyeon had these moments where he would just pull someone into a tight bear hug and wouldn't let go until the latter struggled hard against him. He really enjoyed it and the boy was strong so it was close to impossible to break away sometimes.

"Oppa!" You whine as he tightened the hug around you.

He smiles cheekily as you struggled to pull out. Hyunjae comes in to see your struggle.

"Ah not again," He says as he slaps Juyeon's butt.

"Hyung!"

"What?"

"This is fun."

"Yah!"

You protest as they both laugh at you struggling and he finally lets you go.

"Ah so annoying," You mutter as they both smile at you.

"Your chicken is here, we're not paying!" Kevin calls out to you.

"Let me eat too." Hyunjae immediately says as he hears the words chicken.

"Pay for half." You retort back.

"What? That's not fair."

"Yes it is, because you'll probably eat half for yourself." Juyeon replies as he comes in with the chicken.

Hyunjae just laughs not bothering to deny it.

"Eat up aegi, you have to grow more." Juyeon teases you.

In addition to being the youngest, you were also the smallest and shortest. You weren't that short though, the rest of your other members were just too tall, that included Hyeri and Eli who were taller than the average female K-pop idol.

"I always eat well."

Hyunjae cleans up in exchange for not paying, but you let it go since neither you and Juyeon now felt like moving. You both lay down on his bed looking up at the wall, then he takes your hand. Your heart skips a beat catching you off-guard.

Its not like you haven't held hands before, you did it all the time with him and all the other members too and never felt any different. Maybe its just because we're being close and intimate like this, you try to reason with yourself. You almost stop breathing when Juyeon suddenly turns his head to look at you.

"You feel that too don't you?" He asks as he clasps his fingers with yours.

Your heart starts beating faster as he waits for you to answer. Your thoughts are all jumbled up as you stare back at him, your eyes widening and blinking a few times, flustered.

"If you look at me like that I can't think," You finally tell him.

He lays his head back down on the pillow, one hand behind his head and closing his eyes. He holds your hand with your palm against his face as he lets out a sigh.

"I've been feeling it for a while." He tells you. "I confirmed it when I went home, I missed you so much."

You stay quiet at his confession, still in shock. You tried to process everything all at once but it was impossible. The two of you stay like that in silence for a while, the sound of Juyeon slowly breathing in and out helped you calm down. After some time, you muster up enough courage to get up and rest yourself on his chest, and he opens his eyes.

"I think I like you too," You barely manage to whisper.

He gives you a soft smile as he tucks your hair behind your ear, and caresses your cheeks. You put your hand over his hand as you look into his eyes. The same feeling of warmth spread all over you as it always did when you looked at him smile.

How did you not notice it before, this kind of warmth wasn't something you felt with the other members. It was exclusively a feeling associated with Juyeon. He was always there for you, especially during the time when Hwall, a close friend, had to leave the group. You remembered how hard it was for you when he decided to leave due to his injuries, those sleepless nights you spent in front of the T.V. trying to accept reality. Times when even Sunwoo and Eric were at a loss for words, it was always Juyeon who stayed right beside you and lent you a shoulder to cry on.

"Y/N," The door opens then quickly closes with Hyeri exclaiming, "Oh sh*t sorry-"

You both quickly sit up on the bed as she closes the door and disappears, she probably thought you were kissing or something. The atmosphere was tense as you sheepishly turn to look at Juyeon who was running his hand through his hair in slight confusion. As he sees you looking at him he gives you his signature smile, assuring you that you had nothing to be worried about.

Kinda lame and unrealistic cause it was something that suddenly popped into my head but oh well, a girl can dream right?

Thank you for taking time to read it. <3

[dekuskacchan]

the brightest light is you

https://archiveofourown.org/works/28681833

Warnings: Tooth rotting fluff, tooth rotting fluff

A/N: Hi friends!! This fic is a secret santa gift for my love @lonely-rabbit (you should totally follow her) and our lovely fambly. The prompts were “First Christmas,” and “Proposals.” I hope you like it! <3

--------------------------------

December 10th

----------------------------------

Katsuki saw the sign to the pet store before Izuku did, and immediately knew he was in trouble. Why is there a pet store inside a fucking strip mall?

“Kacchan, look!” Izuku pointed at a baby, chocolate colored bunny, sleeping in an enclosure on display in the front window.

“Absolutely not.”

“But look how cute she is!” Izuku pouted.

“Deku, we already have a cat.”

“Yeah, so she’d have a friend!”

“No, she’d get fucking eaten.”

“Chip would never, she’s too polite.”

“She’s a fucking demon!” Katsuki snapped.

“Pleeeease, Kacchan? She needs a home, and it’s just in time for Christmas,” Izuku wrapped his arms around Katsuki’s middle, staring up at him.

Katsuki averted his gaze and gritted his teeth, knowing he couldn't resist Izuku's pleading eyes.

“No. Don’t give me that fucking look.”

To Katsuki’s surprise, Izuku just laughed and released his hold on him.

“Fine, fine, you’re right,” Izuku sighed dramatically, “let’s go before I get too attached. I’m hungry, anyway.”

Katsuki watched as he walked away, considering for a moment.

“God fucking dammit,” Katsuki muttered, pulling out his phone to snap a picture before Izuku noticed.

----------------------------------

December 18th

----------------------------------

“Look at these, Kacchan!” Katsuki looked up from an outrageously priced scarf to see Izuku holding the most hideous sweaters he had ever seen. They were bright red, each decorated with a matching design that, when held together, formed a Christmas tree that was adorned with real tinsel, glitter, and colored pom-pom ornaments.

“Fuck no,” Katsuki spat, and Izuku burst into laughter.

“Why not? They’re perfect,”

“No way in hell you’re getting me to wear that shit,” Katsuki snapped.

“I can think of a few ways,” Izuku winked. Katsuki sputtered, pink dusting his cheeks.

“C’mon, Kacchan, it’s Christmas! We have to get ugly sweaters.”

It was their first Christmas together since buying their new house, and Izuku had insisted on decorating accordingly. Apparently that also included embarrassing the hell out of Katsuki.

“I don’t have to do shit.”

“Please?” Izuku pouted his lip.

Katsuki pinched the bridge of his nose and groaned.

“Fine,” he growled, while Izuku cheered and tossed the sweaters into the shopping cart.

“Oh, we could get matching Santa h-”

“Don’t even fucking think about it, Deku,” Katsuki pushed the cart forward, swiftly exiting the clothing section of the store as Izuku giggled behind him.

----------------------------------

It had been at least 30 minutes since Katsuki had seen Izuku. Where the fuck had he gone? This shop was too small to get lost in. He had checked all the aisles twice, but Izuku was nowhere to be found.

“Goddammit, every time,” Katsuki muttered, pulling out his phone to call again.

“Oh, Kacchan! There you are!” Katsuki jumped as a mop of green curls popped up from behind a giant red bin. How had he missed that?

“Jesus, Deku! You scared the shit out of me. How long have you fucking been there?,” Katsuki grumbled.

“Way too long. I’m trying to pick out lights, come help me,”

Katsuki sighed as he approached and took in the sight before him.

Izuku was muttering incomprehensibly to himself as he knelt amongst a messy pile of packages, each containing string lights of different sizes, shapes and colors.

“Those white ones in the big box,” Katsuki pointed, interrupting Izuku’s train of thought, “they’ll match the walls and the trim on the house."

Izuku looked up at Katsuki and beamed.

“You’re so smart.”

“Damn right,” Katsuki grinned, “and we’re getting a shit ton. We’re gonna have the best fucking house in the neighborhood," he pulled five boxes of lights from the bin, tossing them into the cart.

“Okay, Kacchan,” Izuku laughed as he cleaned up his mess.

----------------------------------

Their shopping cart was practically overflowing with decorations now, but Izuku didn’t seem to notice, excitedly pulling Katsuki all over the store.

“We already have three of these, nerd,” Katsuki watched as Izuku pondered over a vast selection of snowglobes.

“Yes, but not little ones! We could put these all over the house,” Izuku turned to face Katsuki, holding up a miniature globe with Dynamight’s signature gauntlets inside. Katsuki sighed and draped an arm around Izuku’s shoulder, knowing his mind was already made up.

“Could give this one to your mom,” Katsuki pointed to one that was large, green and orange, with “Wonder Duo” engraved on the front. Inside were little statues of Dynamight and Deku, posed dramatically in battle.

“She likes-,” Katsuki paused, abruptly letting go of Izuku and all but sprinting away, disappearing behind a shelving unit.

“Kacchan what’s-,” Izuku called, startled. He gasped when Katsuki returned with a box three times his size.

It was a giant, twelve foot tall statue of a Yeti wielding a staff. Katsuki poked his head around the side, grinning wickedly in delight.

“Kacchan, where would we even put that?” Izuku stared in disbelief.

“We’ll make room,” Katsuki grunted.

“Make room where?”

“We can put it next to the fireplace.”

“Kacchan, that’s where the stairs are.”

“Fuck the stairs.”

“That thing is taller than our ceiling,” Izuku stifled a laugh as Katsuki struggled to balance the weight of the box.

“Then we’ll put it outside,” Katsuki huffed in frustration.

“I don’t think our neighbors would like that, it’s scary.”

“Fuck the neighbors, this is badass.”

Izuku was laughing in earnest now, tears coming into his eyes.

“I can’t get a bunny, but you can get a giant monster?”

“This is way cooler than a fucking bunny.”

“I’m blaming you if we get in trouble with the landlord.”

----------------------------------

December 20th

----------------------------------

“That’s not food, Chip!” Izuku cried. “Let go!”

Katsuki snickered, slicing vegetables to add to a pot of bubbling curry while Izuku struggled to protect the tree from their cat.

“Shit!”

A resounding thud came from the living room, and Katsuki sighed as he dumped the ingredients into the pot.

“I need help here!” Izuku called desperately as Katsuki entered the room.

Izuku was on the floor, becoming increasingly tangled in ropes of tinsel as Chip rolled in it like she’d struck gold.

“I give up Kacchan, she won’t let- stop laughing! Can you grab her please? She keeps nibbling me” Izuku scowled.

Struggling not to choke on laughter, Katsuki whistled, quickly catching Chip’s attention.

“C’mere, you little shit, I’ve got something that tastes better than Deku,” Katsuki kneeled, dangling a piece of chicken in front of him. The tabby sprinted to him and happily devoured her prize.

“Dumb fucking cat,” he muttered under his breath.

“She likes you more than me,” Izuku chuckled, untangling himself from his tinsel prison to finish wrapping it around the tree.

“Course she does. She only likes the best,” Katsuki grinned, scratching Chip's chin as she purred and rubbed against his knee.

“There,” Izuku stood back to admire his handiwork, “I think it just needs the star now.”

“Can you even reach, shortstack?” Katsuki teased, watching Izuku struggle on his tiptoes.

“Of-” Izuku grunted,” of course I can.”

Wordlessly, Katsuki wrapped his arms around Izuku’s middle, lifting him up with ease to place the silver star atop the tree.

“It looks good, right?” Izuku grinned as Katsuki lowered him back down, still hugging him from behind.

“Yeah. Nice work, nerd,”

“Thanks, Kacchan.”

“Hm.”

“Christmas is gonna be great,” Izuku whispered.

“Be more fun if we just stayed home,” Katsuki grumbled into Izuku’s neck.

“That could be fun,” Izuku laughed, turning in Katsuki’s arm to hug him properly, “but it’ll be good to see our parents. It’s been over a month.”

“Tch. I guess,”

“Thanks for making dinner, Kacchan,” Izuku squeezed him tight and tilted his head up for a kiss.

“It’s gonna fucking burn if you don’t let go of me,” Katsuki murmured against his lips, but kissed him back.

“Hmm. That’s fine,”

Katsuki snorted.

“Hey, I think the demon spawn is ready for round two,” he nodded at the sneaky cat, who was quietly approaching the tree again.

“Dammit,” Izuku whipped around, tearing out of Katsuki’s arms, “Chip, stay out of there!”

----------------------------------

December 25th

----------------------------------

Katsuki woke to soft lips on his forehead

“Good morning, Kacchan,” Izuku whispered in his ear.

“ ‘S too fuckin early, Deku,” Katsuki groaned, eyes still closed.

“It’s almost 10.”

“I said what I said.”

Izuku yelped in surprise as Katsuki grabbed his waist and unceremoniously tugged him down onto the bed.

“Kacchan, it’s Christmas,” Izuku laughed, snuggling into his side, despite himself, “we’re supposed to be at your parents house in three hours.”

“Mmm, fuck’m,” Katsuki grumbled.

“I have coffee brewing,”

Katsuki’s ears perked up, the scent suddenly filling his nose. Sighing, he stretched his free arm above his head and cracked his eyes open to see Izuku smiling at him, wearing that atrocious sweater he’d picked out. Katsuki tucked a stray curl behind his ear.

Too cute for his own damn good.

“Come on, Kacchan, I made breakfast too,” Izuku pulled Katsuki by the arm as he sat up.

“You made breakfast?” Katsuki was dubious as he slid his glasses up his nose.

“Yep. My specialty,”

“Canned cinnamon rolls?”

“Canned cinnamon rolls.”

“....fuck yeah.”

Katsuki had long since accepted his role as the chef in their relationship, because Izuku couldn’t cook to save his fucking life, but canned pastries were a guilty pleasure he knew he’d never shake.

----------------------------------

It was a peaceful morning. The sun peeked through the curtains, bathing the room in warm, golden hues as they sat by the fire, Chip asleep on the couch between them.

“Hey, nerd, go open your present,” Katsuki nudged Izuku, who had begun to doze on his shoulder.

“Hm?” Izuku yawned, stretching his arms, “oh, okay!"

“It’s that red one,” Katsuki pointed to the largest package under the tree. Izuku eyed him curiously before crawling to open the gift, excitedly ripping through the paper and tape to reveal...

Another box, wrapped in different paper.

Izuku raised both eyebrows at him in confusion and Katsuki grinned.

“What, you don’t like it?” he mocked offense, as Izuku narrowed his eyes, “I’m just fucking with you. Keep going.”

Katsuki chuckled and quietly slipped out of the room while Izuku’s attention was occupied.

“Kacchan, this is so unnecessary,” Izuku groaned, as he pulled out yet a third box.

“Maybe I’ll just take it back, then,” Katsuki declared loudly as he re-entered the room, startling an oblivious Izuku.

“Kacchan, when did-” Izuku gasped. Katsuki was leaning against the wall with a smirk, holding a familiar small, chocolate brown bunny in his arms.

“I had Shitty Hair get her after we left the mall,”

“She’s been here for two weeks?!” Izuku cried in disbelief.

“You think I took care of her on my own? Fuck no,” Katsuki grumbled, meeting Izuku halfway and carefully passing him the rabbit, “had your mom keep her. Picked her up last night while you were asleep.”

“I love her,” Izuku smiled, burying his face in Katsuki's chest, “thank you, Kacchan."

Katsuki sighed, wrapping his arms around him and kissing his hair.

“I just knew you’d never shut the fuck up about it."

“Did you introduce her to Chip yet?”

“Yeah. She couldn’t fucking care less.”

Izuku laughed, kissing the bunny's soft head.

“I told you they’d be friends,”

“Yeah. Friends," Katsuki rolled his eyes, "go sit, there's one more,"

Izuku smirked as he watched Katsuki stumble over the ruins of his prank to retrieve the gift.

“There’d better not be another box in there, Kacchan,” Izuku warned, warily taking the package.

“Just open it, dumbass,” Katsuki barked a laugh and joined him on the couch.

Izuku pulled the lid off the long box and stared. Inside was a tall, holographic photo frame filled with drawings Izuku and Katsuki made as children. When tilted to the side, the images changed to reveal photographs of the pair as Pro Heroes.

“Kacchan, you- you kept these?”

Katsuki shrugged.

“They were too badass to throw away,”

“Kacchan-” tears welled up in Izuku’s eyes again, “it’s perfect. You big softie.”

“Tch. I’m not the one crying,” Katsuki wiped the tears as they rolled down his cheeks.

Izuku laughed again.

“But you know I’m right. My turn now?”

Izuku didn't wait for his response, clambering over the sea of boxes for the present without putting his furry new friend down.

“Here!”

It was surprisingly heavy, and topped with a comically large bow.

“Shit, Deku, you put bricks in here?”

“Just open it, Kacchan,” Izuku watched him with excitement in his eyes.

Katsuki ripped the package open to reveal a thick, leather bound scrapbook, with Dynamight’s signature X on the front. The inside cover read, in handwriting Katsuki immediately recognized as Izuku’s,“The Legacy of Dynamight.”

His eyes widened as he flipped through the book of memories.

There were journal articles of him in action. Newspaper headings; “Pro Hero Dynamight makes his big debut!” and “Pro hero Dynamight saves Musutafu Children’s Hospital!

Then came the letters glued to the parchment paper, comprising the majority of the book. Katsuki’s mouth fell open as he read words, handwritten, that he’d never seen before.

There were letters from citizens that had watched him take down terrifying enemies, praising him for his good deeds. Letters from people he’d saved, grateful for the chance to see their families again.

Letters from sick children he’d visited in the hospital telling him how awesome he was, several thanking him for giving them the encouragement to keep fighting.

And finally, there were multiple pages filled with artwork. Most were children’s doodles of Dynamight in action and Dynamight saving the day, but there were also several beautifully drawn and painted portraits.

The remaining pages were blank, waiting to be filled.

Izuku had written on the inside back cover:

This is a book of memories, of growth, of victory, and salvation.

If you are so fortunate to see this, know you are reading a testament to the strongest person this world has ever known.

The fiercest hero and most loyal partner, who always wins and always saves.

The legacy of Katsuki Bakugou, Pro Hero Dynamight.

At the bottom, Izuku had doodled several explosions and grenades, and Katsuki grinned.

“I sent a letter to the World Hero Association Journals, asking people to send in their thoughts about Pro Hero Dynamight. There were so many! Those kids were full of stories. They think you’re really cool. And we can fill the rest of it with new memories, too," Izuku said softly, smiling at him.

Katsuki tried to speak, but nothing came out. He was speechless as he stared at Izuku.

“I just want you to know how proud of you I am. How proud everyone is. You’re amazing, Kacchan," Izuku was looking at him with those big, knowing eyes, and picked up an envelope Katsuki hadn't noticed at the bottom of the box.

“Open the last one.”

It was a page full of more doodles from when they were kids, and potential hero names they’d created. At the bottom read “Dynamight” in uneven, capital letters.

“We had the same idea,” Izuku laughed.

“Deku, I-” Katsuki stuttered, still unable to find the right words.

“I know.”

Did he know? Could he possibly know how much this fucking meant? How much he meant?

They both startled as Chip dove into the pile of wrapping paper on the ground, ripping it to shreds.

“Oh-wait, come back!” Izuku reached for his bunny as she leapt from his lap to explore the wreckage, but Katsuki grabbed his chin and pulled him back.

“I love you,” Katsuki said firmly, capturing his lips in a searing kiss.

It felt like hours, but Katsuki knew it had only been minutes when Izuku pulled back.

“Kacchan,” he was breathless as Katsuki’s lips trailed down his chin, “I don’t know where she went.”

“She’s fine,”

“But-”

“She’s fine.” Katsuki growled, silencing Izuku’s burst of laughter with another kiss.

----------------------------------

“It’s fuckin’ cold, Deku, let’s just take the car,” Katsuki complained, rubbing his hands together to warm them.

“It’s not that cold, Kacchan. And look how pretty it is!” Izuku insisted.

Thin flecks of snow fell from the sky, disappearing into the fluff that already coated the neighborhood. Water dripped slowly from the tree branches as the snow began to melt in the sunlight. The air smelled of evergreen, crisp and cold enough that they could see their own breath.

“Besides, it’s not that far of a walk. Come on, we’re already running late,” Izuku hauled a bag of gifts over one arm, reaching for Katsuki’s hand with the other.

“Our house is the most badass,” Katsuki grinned, looking up at his prized statue. The giant took up half of their front yard, it's long shadow peering over their roof.

“Kacchan, that thing is an eyesore,” Izuku grimaced.

“Shut up. It’s cool as fuck as you know it."

Izuku laughed and shook his head.

“Do you think they’ll be alright without us?” Izuku worried as they walked, thinking of the animals they’d left at home.

“Who knows. Maybe the demon spawn will have eaten that fluff ball by the time we get home,” Katsuki teased.

“Kacchan! That’s not reassuring,”

“You asked,” Katsuki smirked, interlacing his fingers with Izuku’s, “they’ll be fine. They’re fucking animals. And she’s in her pen.”

----------------------------------

The walk was short, but still longer than Katsuki cared for in the cold.

“Oh, mom’s already here!” Izuku pointed to the small, blue car parked in front of the Bakugou household.

The house was huge, decked top to bottom in red and green lights that matched the trees in the yard.

“Hope the old hag hasn’t eaten her alive yet,” Katsuki mused.

“Kacchan, that’s not very nice,” Izuku playful shoved him, “we’d better not keep them waiting,”

They were greeted at the door by Inko Midoriya’s warm, smiling face.

“Merry Christmas boys!” She squealed, pulling them both in for a tight hug.

“Merry Christmas, mom,” Izuku grinned, wrapping his arms around her. Katsuki hummed, loosely returning the embrace.

It was pleasantly warm inside, and smelled of cinnamon and vanilla.

“Oh, those are so cute!” Inko exclaimed as they discarded their coats, pointing to the abhorrent sweaters Izuku had insisted they wear, much to Katsuki’s chagrin.

Katsuki groaned as Inko poked at the ridiculous pom poms on his chest.

Deku’s lucky he’s so fucking cute.

----------------------------------

Katsuki had just finished bickering with Mitsuki when he overheard Izuku and Inko talking in the next room. He paused, leaning against the wall to listen unnoticed.

“I can’t believe you kept Nibbles a secret!”

Nibbles? Where the fuck did that name come from?

“It wasn’t easy, I was so excited! But I was more than happy to help. She’s very well behaved,”

“She is,” Izuku laughed, “thank you for taking care of her, mom.”

“Of course, dear. Katsuki came to check on us almost every day.”

Katsuki flushed as the pair laughed.

“What did he think of the scrapbook?” Inko asked excitedly.

“He liked it, I think. He was quiet, which is Kacchan for “thank you."

Inko was laughing again.

“I think it was a great idea, honey, it's very thoughtful."

“I’m just...really proud of him, y’know? He’s come so far. I don’t think words are enough,” Izuku was sniffling now, “gah, I'm sorry mom, I don’t mean to be so mushy.”

“Don’t apologize. You get it from me,” Inko chuckled, the emotion clear in her voice too, “did you like your other gift?”

“I love it, it’s so perfect. Did you know about that, too?”

“He asked me if I thought you’d like it. I said yes, of course,” Inko paused, “he really loves you, honey.”

“I know. “

Katsuki flushed deeper, leaning quietly against the wall.

Did he know?

----------------------------------

The rest of the day passed in a blur. Inko cried in appreciation for the snowglobe Katsuki had picked out, and locket they’d customized with a photo of the three of them. Mitsuki and Masaru enjoyed the cheesy as fuck digital photo frame Izuku had insisted on, with less teasing from Mitsuki than Katsuki had expected.

Everyone was delighted to see All Might when he stopped by to visit in the afternoon, but Katsuki barely even noticed him. In the crowded room, all he saw was Izuku.

Izuku, who had saved him so many times, in more than one sense of the word. Izuku, who had rooted for him his whole life, the only person who had never stopped truly believing in him, who had reminded him of his true purpose.

Izuku, who had never expected more of him than he had to give, but encouraged him endlessly to reach new heights.

Izuku, who was currently asleep in his lap, wrapped in his new blanket hoodie.

Izuku.

“Can i sit with you, dear?”

Katsuki was interrupted from his reverie by Inko’s soft voice.

“Sure,” he murmured, scooting over as best he could without waking the sleeping lump.

“Thank you for the gifts, they were very thoughtful.”

“Was Deku’s idea,” Katsuki lied. Inko laughed.

“Sure."

They sat together in a calming silence for a while, watching the flames crackle in the fireplace.

Katsuki was frequently comforted by Inko’s presence. She was a beacon of light, always warm and wise. He thought she was about to speak, but she was interrupted by Izuku’s sudden snores.

“He’s loud even in his fucking sleep,” Katsuki rolled his eyes.

Inko chuckled, running a hand through her son’s hair.

“It adds to his natural charm,”

“Yeah, it’s real charming waking up to the sound of a fog horn in the middle of the night,” Katsuki grumbled, earning another musical laugh.

“You know, I don’t think I ever congratulated you on your new home,” Inko hummed.

“ S’just a house."

“Of course it is,” Inko smiled knowingly and patted his arm, “I’m very proud of you both.”

Katsuki was silent for a moment, before squeezing her hand.

“Thanks,” he whispered.

----------------------------------

It was dark when they finally bid their farewells, and considerably colder outside.

“Drive safe, mom!” Izuku waved as Katsuki helped her into her car and shut the door.

“Let’s cut through the plaza on the way home, Kacchan, I want to see the lights,"

“That’s ten fucking minutes out of the way, Deku,” Katsuki growled.

“It’s our last chance to see before it gets taken down! It’ll be fun,” Izuku pleaded, hugging Katsuki’s arm.

“Tch. You’d better fucking walk fast."

Izuku grinned in victory as they left.

“Today was a nice day. I didn’t expect All Might to actually come by, since he’s so busy. It was good to see him,” Izuku thought aloud.

“Woulda been pissed if he didn’t,” Katsuki grumbled.

“Did you invite him, too?” Izuku looked at him in surprise as he shrugged, “that’s really nice, Kacchan,” he smiled, leaning his head on Katsuki’s shoulder.

“I guess.”

They hadn’t been walking long when the light show came into view. Izuku gasped, releasing Katsuki’s arm as he stared.

Silver and gold arches stretched across the narrow street, wrapped in bright, white lights. The roofs of the buildings were covered in brightly colored stars that illuminated the sparkling snow, and the lamp posts were decorated like candy canes. A large statue of silver bells sat in the green field at the center of the plaza.

Katsuki had to admit, it wasn’t all that unpleasant to look at.

Izuku was fucking loving it. Katsuki watched as he stood under an arch, beaming in delight as he admired the view.

Does he know? Katsuki thought back on the events of the day. Does he really know?

“Kacchan, come look,” Izuku called to him.

Katsuki was still lost in thought as he approached, and Izuku paused, eyebrows furrowing in concern.

“Are you o-,” Izuku startled as Katsuki’s hands came to cradle his face.

There were so many things left unsaid, things he’d wanted to say but didn’t know how. Katsuki had always been better with actions than words, and Izuku had always accepted that. He accepted and loved him as he was without a second fucking thought.

“The strongest person this world has ever known.”

Izuku made him stronger.

“The legacy of Dynamight.”

Staring into eyes that were as soft as the falling snow, Katsuki decided he knew.

“Izuku,” Katsuki murmured, looking him straight in the eyes.

Every moment had led to this.

“Kacchan?” Izuku breathed.

The legacy he cared for most was the one he’d forged with Izuku.

“Marry me.”

Izuku’s eyes widened in surprise.

“Listen, I’m- I’m not good at this sappy shit. I don’t know what to fucking say. But-” Katsuki released he didn’t realize he’d been holding as Izuku’s palm brushed his cheek, “the world is a fucking shitty place. But it’s less shitty with you. And I don’t want anyone else by my side. So marry me,” Katsuki voice softened, “Please."

It wasn’t exactly the most romantic of proposals, and there wasn’t a ring, but Izuku didn’t seem to mind.

“Okay,” he whispered. A breathtaking smile spread across his face that put all the fucking lights in the world to shame.

Katsuki met Izuku halfway, lips colliding in a passionate kiss.

The world could be ending for all Katsuki knew, and he couldn’t fucking care less.

Izuku wrapped his arms around Katsuki’s neck, murmuring I love you against his lips, over and over again as he deepened the kiss, and nothing else mattered. Nothing mattered except for this fucking moment as they melted into each other, ignoring the world around them.

Just as their tongues brushed, Izuku pulled back, resting their foreheads together.

“We should-,” Izuku breathed with swollen lips, “should we go home?”

Reluctantly, Katsuki lifted his head and nodded.

“Yeah.”

----------------------------------

It was past midnight when Katsuki woke. They had fallen asleep on the couch, Izuku curled into his side with Nibbles, with Chip resting at their feet. He watched the shadows from the fireplace dancing on the wall, the room gradually becoming dimmer as the flames died out.

Izuku stirred in his sleep, tilting his head up to look at Katsuki with a blissful smile on his face.

“Merry Christmas, Kacchan.”

Katsuki pulled him closer.

“Merry Christmas, Deku.”

----------------------------------------

A/N: thank you for reading!!!!! this is the first fic i’ve ever posted so im super nervous lmao. 

also: the italic lines are supposed to be Katsuki’s thoughts, I wasn’t sure if that was totally clear lmao

also!! big shoutout to @jekacatrina and @thatpinkbetch who helped me with the idea for kacchan’s present and also for the encouragement!!! (best parents ever)

[nightshade-minho]

-Embers- (1)

warnings: suggestive, future smut, themes of death

wc: 5.3k

teaser 

White specks of paint, scattered across an inky sky - they truly were beautiful. You adjusted yourself on the grassy hill, eyes closing as you tried to calm your nerves. Sighing, you ran your hand over crimson scales, trying to ignore the blinding lights of your village in the distance.

“The stars are beautiful tonight.”

You wished you could stay here forever. Where the only sounds that grace your ears are the deep rumbling snores of the enormous draconian creature you're curled up against. It's a comforting sound, and yet you knew you were going to have to leave soon. Your father would be absolutely enraged if you were late to such an important event- in fact, you were sure he’d have absolutely no qualms killing you in front of the entire village and crowning a broomstick as his heir instead.

Perhaps that's why you delayed the inevitable for a little longer, nuzzling your head against the dragon's hide. Your heart was pounding in your chest as you observed your bustling village from above, frantically getting ready for the festival and the welcoming. People were decorating their houses, painting murals onto their walls and making sure everything was perfect for the guests that would arrive tonight.

The streets were lit up with lanterns, and the people milling about outside their houses were dressed up in their best. The excitement in the atmosphere was palpable, and you could almost feel it from atop the hill.

Sighing, you looked to the side, your eyes meeting enormous yellow ones.

“Aeracus...I know what you’re thinking.” You sighed and curled up your knees to your chest. “And you’re right. I’m nervous, but also excited. I can’t believe we’re going to be seeing him again after all these years. Can you?”

The dragon slowly shook his head from side to side, and you chuckled. “Do you think he’s changed? Or do you think he’s still a feline-obsessed asshole?” You smiled, his laughter ringing in your ears as you reminisced.

Slowly though, the good memories bled into terrible ones. Loss and pain, mingling in your heart and taking over your emotions. The smile disappeared from your face as you remembered what had happened. The reason he left. The reason you weren’t allowed to participate in the championships that were to be a part of the festival’s celebrations...the reason the whole village considered you an outcast, despite being the chief’s daughter.

You swallowed the lump in your throat, pushing your hair back as you slowly stood up, dusting off your tunic. You pressed a kiss to the dragon’s neck, sighing.

“I’m going to go, Aeracus. Honestly, you should be grateful you don’t have to partake in these events.”

The dragon let out a disapproving rumble at that, and your face softened. That was a low blow. After all, it wasn’t his fault that he was forced to to refrain from joining his fellow dragons in the games. No, the blame was to be shared between you and Minho.

The felicity in your heart was intertwined with a faint sense of lingering sorrow. It happened so many years ago, and yet the echoes were still fresh in your mind...

You couldn’t deny that you were desperate to see him again. In fact, saying you were desperate would probably be an understatement. You were thrilled, electrified- and yet, oh so anxious.

You clenched your fists, taking in a deep breath and starting to descend the hill. You’d put it off for long enough.

***

“Children, listen carefully, now.”

The boy next to you didn’t heed the elder’s warning, continuing to draw on the back of his hand.

“Minho! Pay attention, or I will have to call your father.”

Minho looked up, scowling. He placed the chalk down and pursed his lips, directing his attention towards the clay figurines that were laid out in front of the elderly woman. You, as well as the 10 other kids in the cottage, were fascinated by the story being told. The woman was teaching you about your culture, the information you needed to know regarding the upcoming ceremony. It was important, and yet Minho couldn’t bring himself to care. He liked cats more than dragons anyway.

“As I was saying.” She cleared her throat, resuming her lesson.

“Now that you children are 13, you are no longer babies. Certain things are expected of you. You have embarked on your journey to adulthood...and thus, there are certain things you must know. The elements of our village, for one.”

She gestured to the figurines on the dirt floor in front of her. “As you all already know, there are four elements.” She pointed to a spiky pyramid, and then to a smooth sphere. “Ember, Aqua...” Her fingers moved to the next pair- a rough cube and a glassy cone. “...Terra and Aer. These are the symbols of the elements. Of course, you all have already seen the life-sized versions of these in our square.”

Eager nods, making her continue with a pleased smile.

“Every dragon on this planet has a corresponding element that they have control over. They possess immense power, and the ability to command these elements.”

Minho raised an eyebrow, intrigued. Hm, maybe this wasn’t as lame as he’d thought it would be..

“I’m sure you children have seen your parents, older friends and relatives with their dragons.” There was a chorus of agreement, and the woman nodded.

“Well, from next week onwards, you will each have your own dragons. Through the ceremony, you will all be assigned a hatchling, with which you will spend the rest of your life.”

Minho hummed in curiosity as the woman dismissed the class. “Good luck, loves. Remember, there will be a few more classes to brief you further.”

The others started filing out slowly as you turned to Minho. “Isn’t this exciting?” You tilted your head, running your eyes over the figurines. “Since my family are all fire elementals, do you think I’ll get an ember dragon?”

“I don’t think it works that way. My father said it doesn’t matter what family you come from, the dragon you get matched with can be of any element, apparently. Though it hasn’t ever happened yet.” He shrugged.

“Really?”

“Yeah.” He yawned. “I already knew everything she said. I could have used this valuable time for something else.” He was lying, to be honest. The only thing he knew about dragons was what he’d just told you.  

“Like what?”

“I don’t know. Do you wanna go to the lake?”

You grinned. “Sure, let’s!” You nodded in agreement as Minho stood up eagerly, grabbing your hand and pulling you out of the cottage. You giggled as he dragged you. “Hey, slow down! Also, we can’t be there for long. We’ve got to be home for that joint dinner, or our fathers will be very mad.”

“Eh, they’d barely notice if we’re gone. When discussing village matters, they don’t give a fuck about their own children, even.” He muttered bitterly.

“Well...that is true.” You sighed as Minho pulled you all the way to the lake, weaving past the villagers, even bumping into some of them. A few of them frowned and made shouts of displeasure, while others didn’t seem to mind. Or maybe they did, and was just too afraid to voice their anger towards the chiefs’ children.

The cottages start becoming more sparse, the trees more tightly clustered. Minho held your hand tightly as you made your way through the woods. Finally, the two of you reached the clearing.

Letting go of your hand gently, Minho sat at the edge of the lake, beckoning you over to sit next to him.

“I wish this place wasn’t so far away from the village.” You sighed, legs aching as you flopped down onto the grass.

Minho shook his head slowly, his fingers fiddling with a tiny dandelion he’d pulled out. “The further away, the better.” He grumbled, blowing on it and watching as the seeds floated in the breeze.

You sighed. There it was, again. You knew better than to oppose him, so you hummed, scooting a little closer and placing your hand on top of his. “I know you want to leave this place. I know you want to...to explore the world. I just want you to know that whatever you decide to do, I’ll be by your side.” You said honestly.

Minho looked up at you. “Really?”

“Yeah.”

He felt like there was a lump in his throat. Minho knew how much this village and its culture meant to you. You were really willing to do that for him? Leave, and never come back?

“Listen here, Miss L/n.” He turned to you, inhaling as he pressed a kiss to your forehead, his lips soft as they brushed against your skin. You blushed, staring at him with wide eyes as he spoke.

“I’m the one who’s going to be making the sacrifices here, alright? I’m older than you, remember? I call the shots.” He chuckled, booping your nose. 

“I love you so much, star.”

You cringed at the nickname, shoving him away. “Stop calling me that, you sound like a character in one of Mr Yang’s cheesy novels.”

He smirked at that. “I’ll never stop calling you that. You’re my star, cause you light up my world and guide me when everything’s dark.” He reasoned, laughing and throwing his head back as he watched you wrinkle your nose in disgust, looking a little like a bunny.

Humming, Minho lay back on the grass, and you followed suit after a minute of hesitation.

“I don’t mind you calling me that. Just don’t do it in front of people.”

“Okay, I won’t. It’s just us all the time, anyway...”

The two of you stared up at the sky, listening to the calm sounds of frogs ribbiting, birds chirping, and the splashing sounds of the fish in the lake. Above it all though, was the sound of your heart, beating persistently as Minho’s fingers creeped closer to yours, intertwining your hands.

“It’s always us...”

***

Your father had explained to you that since your family consisted entirely of ember elementals, your dragon would be of the same kind as well. This went against what Minho had told you before, and your mind was swimming with all the different information you were receiving.

“But...Minho said it doesn’t work that way.”

He sat on his armchair, chewing on  a chicken leg as he raised an eyebrow. “Really? Well, he’s wrong.” He sighed, shaking his head. “It’s never happened in centuries, and it’s not gonna happen now. You’re an Ember, through and through.”

You purse your lips. “Well, you’re always right, Father.”

He nodded, not picking up on the snark your sentence was dripping with. "The bond you share with your dragon is one that can never be replicated. You choose it, and it chooses you. It is truly a beautiful process, a spectacle to behold. Every single villager will be watching, so you better hold your head high. Make me proud."

You were about to reply when you heard a knock on your door. Glancing at your father for permission, you stood up. heading through the long hallway to open the front door.

“Minho?”

You looked at him, tilting your head at his troubled expression. “What’s up?

“I came to give you these.” He said softly, looking around before showing you the fiery petals in his palms. “I borrowed a herbology book from the library a few months ago, and learnt how to grow these. Ignis flowers. They’re symbols of good luck, apparently.”

He took your hand, placing the petals on your palm. “They reminded me of you.”

Your eyes widened slowly. “Wow...Minho, I didn’t get you anything...” You said guiltily, humming when Minho gently pulled you into a hug.

“You don’t have to. I’ve got to go home, now. See you tomorrow!”

You nodded, the petals safe in your hands as he left hurriedly. You watched him head to his house, opposite to yours.

After he left, you were about to head to bed when your father asked you to stay back. Confused, you went over to sit in front of him, tilting your head in confusion.

“Who was at the door?”

“It was just Minho.” You shrugged, eyeing your father as he groaned, massaging his forehead. He looked like he was contemplating something, his wrinkles seeming especially prominent.

"Child, be wary of your...friend."

"Friend...?" You knew he meant Minho. You'd never heard him address him in that manner though - void of affection.

Minho's father and yours were co-chiefs of the village, best friends since birth. He’d always treated Minho like his own son. What had brought on this sudden hostility?

He noticed the expression on your face, sighing and patting your shoulder. "I'm just asking you to be careful, dear. There is talk of the Aer elementals gaining power at an accelerated rate these days. Aer dragons are growing up to be stronger, even more so than our Ember ones. It's truly a strange phenomenon. I do not want to be one of these people who is suspicious of everything and everyone...but both the kid and his father have changed. Even I can't deny that."

You swallowed at his words, watching as his face drifted off, deep in thought. You'd heard of it too- hushed whispers claiming that a single chief would be preferable for the village. And if your father's hunch was right...no, you didn't want to think about it.

Minho wouldn't ever betray you. You'd known him since before you could talk. you’d build up a lot of trust in each other over the years. There was no one else you knew as well. If you couldn’t trust him, who could?

No. He would never hurt you. You were sure of it.

***

The whole village was buzzing for weeks after the ceremony took place. They simply couldn't understand what had happened. It was unprecedented- and the news spread like wildfire.

You were matched with a majestic Aer creature, and Minho a beautiful crimson beast of Ember. Mistakes weren't possible- the process was never questioned- but that didn't mean people weren't bewildered.

For centuries, no one had managed to match with a dragon that controlled an element that differed from theirs.

Neither of you could understand why your fathers and the villagers were so perplexed, though. Was it really as big of a deal as they made it seem?

"I don't get it. Why is it such a humongous problem? They’re just dragons. What’s the need for all this drama?" Minho rolled his eyes as he spoke.

You stroked your dragon's neck slowly as you watched him, huffing and ranting away. ‘Just dragons.’ There was a part of you that understood all the hubbub. The people loved gossip- especially if it involved the chiefs.

"It really isn't. They're both so beautiful, I don't really care what element they control."

You looked at your dragon, curled next to you. You wouldn't admit it, but she looked a little too beautiful- almost to the point where it intimidated you.

Translucent, white scales that reflected rainbows of light...long, beautiful almond shaped eyes that were the color of the ocean. She was larger and brighter than Minho's dragon as well. Your father had been right...the Aer dragons were evolving quicker, somehow.

She was quiet and regal, her sleek body elegant and her demeanor refined. You didn’t really have much in common, to be honest. You’d named her Caeli- a name that wasn’t really all that creative, but it would do. Besides, it seemed to fit.

Minho looked at you, sighing slowly. "Aeracus seems hungry. Father will be expecting me soon anyway, I think I'll go home now, Y/n."

"Bye, Min."

He shot you a dashing grin before standing up, climbing his dragon.

As they left, a great whoosh of wind rustling your hair, you looked up at your dragon. She was staring at the water, her eyes narrowed.

You were starting to feel a little worried. You couldn’t exactly...hear her thoughts. She seemed too closed off, barely even looking at you as she blankly watched the frogs jump from one lilypad to the other. You didn’t feel that special bond everyone had been talking about for years, insisting to you that it would be a connection so profound you wouldn’t be able to live without it.

Did she not like you? You looked so average next to her ethereality, drab and plain as opposed to her stunning beauty.

You couldn’t blame her, really.

***

When Minho stood next to your dragon, the sight somehow made more sense. He was  beautiful, and so was the creature next to him. They fit together perfectly.

Aeracus on the other hand, was slightly more average. He was majestic as well, but not on the same level as Caeli. You felt more at home riding him, somehow. Like...he was the one that was meant to be yours.

Of course, you wouldn’t ever tell anyone about this. It could be considered infidelity, even. Your father was disappointed enough in you as it was. Four years of training with Caeli, and you still weren’t able to channel her power into...anything. She just wouldn’t co-operate.

"There you go..." He finished slipping the harness onto Caeli, dusting off his hands as he came back over to you, giggling as Aeracus rubbed his big head against your side.

Minho raised his eyebrows at the display of affection. Aeracus was never that amicable to him. Yes, he listened to him...but that was about it. And yet, to you...he always noticed how the two of you seemed to have some sort of connection. He’d mentioned this to his father once, only to be called ridiculous.

Then again, he couldn’t blame the dragon for having a soft spot for you. Who wouldn’t?

“Hey...” He looked down at you as the dragon pulled away, ambling off to Caeli’s side. You glanced up slowly when Minho cleared his throat, leaning in a little as his fingers ran through your tresses. Your cheeks flushed, eyes widening slightly at his touch.

"A leaf. In your hair." He mumbled, throwing said leaf onto the ground as he stared into your eyes.

Your heart was thudding loudly in your chest as your gaze ran over his features, so close to your face. Fuck, he was so deathly handsome, even more so now that you were both almost adults. Puberty had treated him well.

A little too well.

The girls in the square swooning over Minho became a regular occurrence now. You couldn't even seem to go anywhere with your best friend, without having a mob of fangirls following closely.

When he was this close to you, it became overwhelmingly evident why his fans were so enamored by him. Lee Minho really was beautiful.

"Careful, a fly might make its nest in your mouth." He chuckled. "What's up, kitten? You look on edge."

That was the other thing. His latest habit of calling you pet names- the likes of which included princess and kitten- had come out of nowhere. He really seemed to enjoy making you blush. At times like this, you wished he would have just stuck with ‘star’.

“Nothing.” You stuttered, avoiding his eyes and choosing to focus your stare on the ground. Minho wasn’t in the mood for your shyness, though. He placed his finger under your chin, tilting your face up to look at him.

“You sure about that? Is there a reason you look so flustered right now?” He breathed, leaning in closer until your noses were brushing.

Oh, fuck you, Lee.

You'd always thought Minho was attractive. Of course. You'd be blind not to notice. And yet, at this proximity, you felt like you haven’t ever truly appreciated just how fucking hot the man in front of you was.

And so you did something you never thought you’d have the courage to do.

Leaning in, you closed the distance between the two of you, lips crashing against his. To Minho’s credit, he wasn’t all that shocked. Smirking against you, his arms wrapped around your waist as he pulled you closer, gluing your body to his.

Backing you up against a tree, Minho was quick to lift your thigh, slotting your hips together as he ran his tongue over your bottom lip.

A groan left you as he slid his hand under your shirt, pulling away to stare at you, the sight of your swollen lips affecting him in ways he couldn’t quite describe.

“What...what did we just-”

He shut you up with another kiss, rougher than the last one. Breathless pecks, desperately claiming you with his lips as he pressed himself against you.

“Just go with the flow, baby.”

And so you did.

***

As you carefully made your way down, your mind was racing with a million thoughts. The thought of seeing your boyfriend again after so many years scared you as much as it excited you. After all...it wasn’t like you parted on good terms.

You still remembered the heartbroken look on his face, the last time you saw him. You couldn’t tell him that you’d tried everything, tried your best to reason with your father who simply refused to budge. He’d expected you to do something more...but what?

It wasn’t his fault. It was a fucking accident, and yet he’d had to take the blame.

Deep down, though, you knew what your father’s real intentions had been when he banished Minho and his father from the village. Of course, Caeli’s death had shaken him- the entire village had been in a state of shock. The death of a dragon was the most tragic event that could possibly befall a village. And when said dragon happened to belong to the chief’s daughter? Shattering.

At the end of the day though, it was a convenient incident...one that happened to take place just as your father’s status was being questioned. A blessing in disguise, for him.

“It’s okay, my child. Yes, you suffered a great loss, but I know you weren’t that close to it. We must move on. On the bright side, you can focus on your studies now! Isn’t that what you’ve always wanted to do?”

You scoffed, his words repeating themselves in your brain. Bullshit. There was no bright side, nor would there ever be one without Minho in your life.

***

“There you are. Where were you?"

"I...was with Aeracus." You didn't see the point in lying. Your brain was too tired to come up with a believable fabrication anyway.

As expected, his face screwed up in anger as he glared, standing up.

"Why?" He hissed. "Let me remind you he is not your dragon. How many times have I told you not to get too close to it?"

"Aeracus and I have a bond." You mumbled.

"No. You don't. A bond is forged between a dragon and its owner by forces beyond our control. This measly 'friendship', if you can even call it that, is trivial. At the end of the day, it doesn't really belong to you. It belongs to the boy who betrayed you."

You couldn't bring yourself to react any more. Your father was old-fashioned, his opinions set in stone. ‘Betrayed’. You wanted to scoff.

You turned around without a word, heading for your room. There was no energy left in your body, yet the exhaustion was overpowered by your emotions.

"Y/n, wait."

You stopped, turning and looking at him. "What?"

"Your maids are waiting to dress you. Don't argue with them. You are to wear the outfit I picked out for you. Today's dinner is extremely important." He paused. "And...what I said before still stands. The dragon won't hesitate to betray you, especially now that his true owner is coming back. Be...be careful." Your father said quietly, his face softening.

You sighed. "I will be."

"Good."

He dismissed you. You heaved a sigh of relief under your breath and headed out, opening the door to your own room.

You would never admit this to your father, but as nervous as you were, you were secretly looking forward to the dinner. To see him again.

If you closed your eyes and immersed yourself deep enough into your imagination, you could still feel his touch ghosting along your thighs. His soft lips, pressing against yours.

You missed his voice, his tight hugs...you missed everything about him. You'd only ever felt safe in his arms.

The loneliness and pain had consumed you when he left. Maybe that's why you latched on to Aeracus, the last remnant of Minho in this village that seemed so much more dreary without his presence.

"Miss Y/n! We have no time to lose." Your head maid scurried about your room with two others, spreading out your dress on your bed. One of the maids- Sylvia, you think her name was- snuck up behind you and began undressing you. Yes, you were used to this, but the layer of urgency in the atmosphere was a lot more profound tonight.

The entire village was on edge, and you couldn’t really blame them. The first Elemental Championships, and they were being hosted at your village. The exhilaration was understandable...you couldn't bring yourself to feel the same way, though. Maybe if you were actually participating, you’d feel different.

You looked at the dress the maid was holding onto, initially without much interest...but your eyes widened when it came into view.

It was beautiful, yet simple...the color of spun gold, with tiny rubies clustered at the bodice. The sleeves fell of the shoulders delicately, and the material was diaphanous, the texture rich.

“Wow....Sylvia, you made this?”

“I did. It took me a year.” She smiled widely, your grin satisfying her. “Do you really like it, Miss Y/n?” There was a hopeful lilt to her voice, and your grin grew wider as they started helping you into it.

“Like it? I love it! You’ve really outdone yourself this time.”

She nodded in content, lacing up the back as the other maids began on your makeup. Usually, you didn’t like being treated as a doll, your servants fussing over you and your appearance. Today, though...

You could barely believe the reflection you were seeing in the mirror belonged to you. You'd never felt so glamorous before. 

“You look beautiful, Miss.” Sylvia said softly, adjusting your sleeves.

You couldn’t wait for Minho to see you in this dress.

“Ann?” Another servant’s head appeared around the corner. “It’s time. They will arrive any moment now.”

A flurry of anxious noises and exclamations filled the room as they worked on you faster. You took a deep breath in, your mind blank and full of thoughts at the same time.

***

You stood next to your father, hands clasped in front of you. Surreptitiously, you raised your hand to your forehead, wiping away a few drops of perspiration. It was happening, you were finally going to see Minho again. And if your father successfully manages to make amends with his- fuck, you were grinning just thinking about it. 

The villagers standing behind you were all dressed in their best as well, and the lanterns shone brightly, washing over everything. The air was sparkling, the atmosphere charged with electricity. Everyone had their eyes trained on the sky, waiting for Minho’s people. The two other villages were to come tomorrow, according to the letters.

Four villages. All competing in the championship yours was hosting. It was nerve-wracking, the amount of people who would be crammed into your village, which was big enough, really- possibly the largest in the country- it still stressed you out, though. Since there weren’t enough guest houses to fit everyone, a lot of the visitors would be staying with your villagers, the chiefs and their families staying at your house. You were keenly aware of the fact that this meant Minho would be in the same living quarters as you. Your heart pounded at the prospect.

Later in the night, you were planning to sneak into his room, since you obviously wouldn’t be allowed to talk to him during the dinner. At least, you wouldn’t be able to communicate the things you so desperately wanted to say to him. Every part of you tingled as you thought about what you’d say to him. 

You felt light as a feather as you stared at the starry sky, eyes widening slightly as you spotted the thousands of dots in the distance, flying closer. Anticipation and exhilaration mingled in you as you waited for them to arrive. Just the thought of feeling Minho pressed up against you again, whispering in your ear how much he loved you...it made you want to cry, almost. You’d waited for this moment for too long.

The conch shell was blown as they reached the edge of the forest. More than a thousand dragons, covered in finery, just like their riders.

Hmm. There were a lot more than you expected. You’d only been anticipating about a hundred, since it was only Minho’s village that was coming tonight. Or so you’d thought...

You turned your head to look at your father, letting the confusion show on your face. Noticing your expression, he shrugged. “It looks like all three decided to come tonight.”

You frowned, looking back at the dragons that were at the border now, preparing for landing. That was weird.

You observed the dragons that had landed, your eyebrows furrowing. Huh.

The three dragons at the front were a lot bulkier than the ones in the back. Darker colors, almost hulking muscles and narrow eyes. They looked like no dragon you’d ever seen before. The sight was almost unsettling. You felt a faint sense of dread spreading over you, a feeling you tried to push away as your eyes searched each dragon’s back for Minho.

You recognized Minho’s father right away. He was at the very front, along with two other old men on a green and blue dragon respectively, that you realized were the chiefs of the other two villages. Surprisingly though, Minho wasn’t sat behind him. You’d assumed it to be that way...after all, Minho’s dragon was still here. So where was he? Your eyebrows furrowed, not wanting to assume the worst right away. You wildly looked over them all, craning your neck slightly. You didn’t want to seem too eager, but it’s not like you could help yourself. Could anyone blame you? Here you were, about to meet the first and only person you’d ever fallen in love with, after years of yearning and loneliness.

As your father stepped forward, a smile on his face to greet the chiefs, you finally saw him.

For a minute, it was like you couldn’t breathe. He looked as beautiful as ever, his feline eyes twinkling, his dark hair exposing part of his smooth forehead. His hands gripped the reins so tightly his knuckles were white, and the way he sat on his dragon was regal, his expression confident and filled with determination. He was older, and somehow even more handsome than the last time you saw him. You didn’t even think that was possible.

You swallowed, your breath catching in your throat as his eyes finally met yours.

It was like time had ceased for a minute. You smiled slowly, happy tears pricking at your eyes as you took in his face.

He didn’t smile back.

And that’s when you noticed the pale arms wrapped around his waist. Confused, you watched as the chiefs dismounted the dragons, along with their heirs. Minho alighted from the dragon, helping down the woman who had been holding onto him. He held her hands gently, leaning in to press a kiss to her forehead.

You felt like your whole world had collapsed, bile rising in your throat as you watched her giggle. You noticed she was dressed in blue, her clothing that of a heiress. As they approached, your eyes fell on the sparkling ring on her finger...one that matched Minho’s.

When his eyes looked into yours again, they were cold, just like your heart.