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findmeinforks · 6 months

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Stay - Paul Lahote X Fem!Reader

Happy 2024! I honestly didn't know what to call this, but I just kept writing and now I'll probably need a part 2 🙃 enjoy 💕 2.8K words

"You have no idea how excited I am. I mean just how long have I been begging you to come live with me?" Emily grinned into the phone that was tucked between her shoulder and ear. She paced the kitchen while whisking a bowl of brownie mix, mindlessly chatting away.

"I must warn you though that the house does get chaotic. But the boys are pretty good about keeping up after themselves," she said while swatting away Embry's hand that almost made a dip in the bowl. He put his hands up in self defense as she rolled her eyes.

"Sounds great. Sam will pick you up at the airport tomorrow at noon. Let me know if you need anything else, and have a safe flight. I love you!" She she set the bowl on the counter, hanging up the phone.

"Was that Y/N? She's moving in tomorrow?" Quil questioned from the table with a mouth full of chips.

"Yes, and I trust that you boys will be on your best behavior in welcoming her..." Emily raised her eyebrow as she pointed a dripping whisk of batter at all the men now surrounding the kitchen.

"Depends, is she hot?" Embry snickered as he sat down.

"Oh....she is." Quil emphasized with wide eyes.

"Get it Embry!" Paul snorted as he clapped him on the back, reaching over into Quil's bag of chips.

"They WILL be on their best behavior. And no one will be 'getting' shit." The booming voice of Sam emerged behind Emily, wrapping his arms around her torso.

He reached his head over her shoulder as she let him lick what was left on the whisk, earning a disgusted "Seriously?" from Quil.

"Hey, but what if she's my imprint??" Embry held his up his finger to argue.

"You know that would be a different story...but we know already she isn't Quil's" Sam smirked at the youngest pack members now disappointed face.

"You guys are kidding right? I've seen pictures. Shes insanely out of all your leagues." Jacob quipped as he strolled to the living room.

"Anything is better than my crushes newborn infant..." Embry muttered under his breath, making all the boys cower in laughter.

"Oh yeah? You wanna say that again?" Jacob challenged.

Sam walked around in between them, looking from side to side at them both.

"THIS is what Emily is talking about. Keep the fights outside boys. I mean it. Just because Y/N knows about the pack doesn't mean she won't get scared if you clowns nearly phase in the kitchen. Are we clear?"

The two reluctantly nodded, Jacob sulking away to the living room.

"But come on, that was kinda funny.." Embry whispered, making the other boys giggle.

Paul shook his head with a smile at his little brother, leaving the room to shower before dinner.

There was something about the conversation that stuck with Paul throughout the night. Since Sam had met Emily, all of his brothers wanted imprints. They all saw what it was like to have one up close, and craved it desperately. He grimaced at the thought. The idea of a "soulmate" sounded ridiculous to Paul.

The problem wasn't that he didn't believe in it. Anybody could see the intense love that imprints had for one another, their bond growing with them until old age.

But Paul was not familiar with the term love. He never did get to see the love between his father and mother. She had been his imprint, but passed long before Paul could remember much about her. He watched his father struggle emotionally, never being able to get through the grief of her loss. Sure, he raised Paul as best he could, but deep down it was his mother that would have filled the void in their quiet house.

Things did get a little brighter when Paul joined the pack. For the first time he truly felt like he was part of a real family. He came home to hot meals, genuine laughter, and lively conversation. Not only had he gained a group of brothers, but ones with unwavering loyalty. None of them ever strayed away when Paul lost control of his temper, and were the first ones to help him learn to control it.

Maybe that was the reason he never looked for anything serious when it came to women. What was the point? One little outburst and they were out the door quicker than they had come in. He didn't allow himself to feel anything for them, because they'd end up leaving, and he was saving himself the heart break anyways.

Paul lay awake that night certain about one thing, he didn't need an imprint.

You inhaled the crisp fall air. Smiling wide as you looked up the steps to the new home awaiting you, the patio adorned in different flowers and cutesy outdoor decor.

"Oh Em it's just how I remember. You always make it look so cozy," you said as you squeezed the arm of your cousin beside you.

She returned your same smile.

"You're too sweet. I just can't believe you're really here. Come on, I'll introduce you to the boys."

You followed her up the steps, walking through the door to the warm smell of baked goods, no doubt that Emily had been up all night. You chuckled to yourself as you remember how she would go overboard on food whenever she was excited about something and couldn't sleep.

What you weren't used to, however, was being greeted by the several shirtless men. All incredibly in shape with tattoos on their arms, you might have been intimidated if it weren't for their cheesy smiles.

Emily gestured to each of them,

"You remember Quil, and that's Embry, Jacob, Seth, andddd well," she looked around puzzled for a moment. "I guess I'll introduce you to Paul whenever he comes around."

You waved at Quil and shook the other's hands.

There must have been some sort of inside joke, because as you finished with introductions you saw Sam laugh while they collectively let out a small sigh.

You don't think you were meant to hear it, but you caught Sam whisper at Embry,

"Better luck next time kid."

Emily didn't make a big deal of whatever it was, guiding you to your room.

After you got settled in, you found yourself strolling the hallway, looking over all the framed pictures on the wall. You had been over the moon when Emily had found Sam. You've never seen her so happy before, and you could tell he looked at her in the exact same way.

Not paying attention when the bathroom door opened, you collided with a large bare chest that stepped into the hall.

You gasped as two strong arms to match caught you before you fell, luckily, and you embarrassingly faced the one man you of course had no former introduction with.

"I am so, so sorry. I-"

"No no it's fine, are you-"

Both of you started and stopped mid sentence. Your attention had been captured when you two locked eyes. It was like you had been anchored to the floor by them. This warm, fuzzy energy had your entire body buzzing. It was so silent that you could hear your own blood flow in your ears. You furrowed your eyebrows in the haze. What the hell...

"ARE YOU SHITTING ME??"

A loud voice cut through the trance and you flinched at the abrupt sound. The man held you slightly tighter for a moment, as if he was about to protect you from whatever had interrupted you both in this hypnotic state.

Turning around so you both could see that the voice had been Embry, the man looked back and quickly dropped his arms, as if he just realized he had been holding you that whole time.

An unfamiliar emptiness lingered when he let go. He quickly averted his gaze, mumbling another apology before brushing past you, into a room, shutting the door.

His imprint. Right there. In the hallway of his own home.

Paul couldn't breathe.

He sat on the edge of his bed, nervously running his hands through his hair in a panic.

You were beautiful.

Breathtaking.

Your smell was intoxicating and your skin was so, so very soft. Your voice sounded like an angel. Your hair-

No.

No, he couldn't let himself think like this. He didn't need an imprint. Didn't even want one in the first place.

Was this some kind of sick joke the universe was playing on him? This girl could have anyone she wants. Why him?

Emily's call for dinner had him taking deep breaths. He could do this. They could live amongst eachother and not have to talk. There's ton of people in this house, it would be rare that the two of them would ever be alone. Right? Right. He could do this.

He walked into the bathroom, splashing cold water on his face. Wake up. It's just some girl. No different than the many that he had been with. Hell, if he could have sex with someone and never think of them again, he could do it. They had barely exchanged a sentence. Barely touched. He would be fine.

You sat down at the table, trying to behave as normal as possible. What happened in the hall was nothing. Whiplash. Yes, it was probably the whiplash from running into him. The poor guy seemed shy, and he was most likely just as shook up as you. It was a small accident and nothing more. He certainly didn't seem angry or upset, just caught off guard.

But wow....was he handsome. Certainly more attractive than any lousy guy you'd ever been with. He had this aroma of sandalwood and forest that was enchanting.

Okay, slow down Y/N. Let's not walk in on the first day and jump on some guy. After all, you two are going to be living together. Maybe don't make him uncomfortable in his own home. You shook your head to yourself. Just forget about the whole thing and it will be fine.

Luckily, Emily had started conversations around the table, easily able to take your mind elsewhere.

That was, until he came in the room. There was a beat of silence when he entered, the other boys seeming to look at him like they were anticipating something. When he didn't make a sound or even look up to anyone, slumping at the table and taking a plate, the conversations arose again.

Dinner was excellent as usual for Emily's cooking, and besides your beating heart constantly begging you to look at the man near the end of the table, it was almost normal.

It was when Emily put delicious brownies on the table, that it took a turn for the worse.

"I'M NOT GOING TO TELL YOU AGAIN. SHUT THE FUCK ALONE ABOUT IT" Everyone's head turned to the angry voice. It was him. He was so visibly upset that he was shaking, staring daggers at Embry beside him. Slamming his fists on the table as he stood up, you let an audible gasp slip.

That's when he looked at you for the second time that night. It was a far reach, but somehow you saw his eyes soften. The crinkles of anger in his eyebrows vanished, and he swallowed, before bolting out the door. Sam immediately followed, and Emily sighed, reaching out to touch your arm.

"I'm sorry about Paul. He's very.....expressive sometimes."

Paul.

"Leave me alone Sam."

Paul sighed through the mind link, his large wolf racing through the trees.

He didn't mean it. He never means it. But Embry would simply not stop talking. First it was meaningless. He asked what imprinting felt like. Paul had shrugged it off as nothing crazy, hoping he'd drop it there. Then, he had asked him if he planned on pursuing the imprint. Of course he told him he wasn't. He didn't need a soulmate. No matter what his instincts told him. But then, Embry had smiled and thanked him, telling him that you were now "fair game".

That had been when he lost it.

He stopped on the edge of a cliff, breathing in the fresh water air. Sam slowly approached his side.

"Embry only said that to get a rise out of you, you know."

Paul scoffed.

"He can do whatever he wants. I don't care about her."

"Oh you don't?" Sam didn't sound so convinced.

"Even if I did, she wouldn't want me. Did you....did you see the look on her face when I yelled?" Paul replayed it over and over. You had looked absolutely frightened.

"There is a reason she was chosen to be your imprint Paul. You don't know Y/N. She is patient, and most of all understanding. If you talked to her-"

"I don't need to talk to her. I am perfectly fine alone. I don't need a woman, and I definitely don't need an imprint."

Sam sighed.

"Paul. You can do what you want. I'm not the type of alpha to force you to love someone. But believe me when I say that I had a dark past. I was also comfortable with being alone. Emily is the best thing that could have ever happened to me. Having a conversation with her doesn't mean there will be wedding bells tomorrow. All I'm saying is you don't know unless you try."

Paul nodded, and Sam left him with his thoughts.

You stared at the numbers on your phone screen. 2:00am. You huffed in frustration. Your mind had been a constant replay of the events today, your mind spiraling. You had settled on the fact things around here were weird, when you had visited Emily and accidentally caught sight of Sam in wolf form. But this energy couldn't have anything to do with that. Could it?

You decided to make yourself some tea to try and relax. Knowing Emily you knew there had to be some in the kitchen. You tip toed in the dark, your body stiffening as you recognized a familiar muscular back that sat at the kitchen table in a dim light.

You were ready to retreat back to your room when he turned his head around to look at you.

Damn, wolves must have good hearing.

"I was just....going to make some tea.." you pointed to the cabinet awkwardly.

He nodded, looking back down at what appeared to be a cup of coffee.

He couldn't sleep either?

You mindlessly tapped your fingers against the counter as you awaited the kettle, praying that if you stared at it long enough, it would speed up the process.

Fuck, was this torture. You were like a goddess, standing there in your pajamas, hair astray and up in a haphazard bun. He imagined walking up behind you, wrapping his arms around you, soaking in your warmth while he pressed gentle kisses on your neck. He wondered what it sounded like to hear you laugh...

STOP STARING. Say something. Anything. Just. Try.

He cleared his throat. It must have startled you because you quickly turned to face him.

"I'm...sorry. About what you saw earlier. That's not like me. I-Embry, he can get under my skin sometimes," he rubbed the back of his head.

"But that's no excuse. I'm-um, Im Paul, by the way."

He lifted his hand up in an almost wave. Why was he so awkward? He was never this way with women.

You giggled, and suddenly, he felt like he was in heaven.

"Y/N. And no worries at all, Emily said you can be....'expressive' sometimes."

He chuckled.

"That's one word for it. But I just don't want to scare you off..."

"Well. I think if knowing that you can all turn into a large creatures who can rip me apart and that doesn't scare me away, I think you were okay." You smiled. He could look at that smile forever.

He was actually talking to you. Man, was his laugh so perfect. You could talk with him forever.

The kettle screeched, and you reluctantly made your tea.

"Well....I guess I'll see you around, Paul." You took your mug and headed for your room.

His name on her tongue. He wanted her to say it again.

"You can stay. If-if you want. I, uh, I don't...know much about you."

You smiled.

"I'd like that."

To be continued......

#paul lahote #sam uley #twilight #bella swan #edward cullen #embry call #imagine #jacob black #new moon #quil ateara #eclipse #seth clearwater #emily young #breaking dawn #fanfiction #paul lahote x you #paul lahote x reader #paul x reader #fiction

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putellas14 · 6 months

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Home for the Holidays (Alexia Putellas x Reader ficlet)

18. "cancelling all other plans so they can spend the entire holidays together."

Hope you don't hate me for being a few weeks late. This one's not the best but covid really took me out. Merry Christmas, dear friends. I hope 2024 is full of magic for you all.

"Are you excited to go visit your family for Christmas?" Lola asked you at the end of the last training before Christmas. This was your third year in Madrid and every Christmas, you left Spain to visit your family in Denmark. You usually looked forward to the time with them since you didn't get to go home often.

"Yeah!" you lied. "We're going to make cookies like we do every year and I've been on a crafting kick, so I made a bunch of pinterest-y crafts to give them." You hadn't told anyone but you were dreading going home this year. Not because you didn't love your family but because you didn't want to leave Alexia alone. Her mom and sister had gone on a vacation for a week to Japan and due to a volcanic eruption, they had gotten stuck there. So far, there was no news on whether they'd make it back this weekend for Christmas.

Not that anyone knew you and Alexia were dating. That you wanted to throw your traditions to the wind and start building new ones with Alexia.

"When do you leave?"

"In the morning. I have the first flight out at 6am."

"That's too early," Lola said, fake shuddering. "Merry Christmas, Y/N," she said, picking up her bags. "I hope you have a great time."

"Thanks, Lol. Merry Christmas." You smiled warmly at her as she walked away. You finished packing your bag and walked out to the parking lot. On the drive back to your apartment, you tried calling Alexia. They had finished training for two weeks yesterday and had a team Christmas party tonight. It surprised you to get her voicemail. Hanging up, you sighed, hoping she was alright. She loved Christmas normally and you knew it was incredibly hard for her to be without her family.

Once you were home, you turned on all the Christmas lights you'd put up. Bright colors and twinkly white lights illuminated your home, bringing a huge smile to your face. The Christmas tree in the corner was filled with the ugliest ornaments you could find. Garlands and tinsel were hung over every window. The older you got, the more time you spent away from home, the more you reveled in tacky Christmas décor.

An hour later, you were curled on the couch with a large bowl of soup, a cheesy Christmas movie on the television, and your puppy sprawled out next to you on the couch. As the couple on the screen slowly fell in love, your mind drifted to the woman you loved. And you started to plan. There was no way you could leave her alone at Christmastime. The thought of her alone dampened all your Christmas spirit.

The next morning, you packed up your bags and the puppy and made your way to the train station. When you should have been touching down in Copenhagen, you were stepping off the train in Barcelona. Although Zazu had only been to Barcelona once, he led you right to her apartment, tugging you along behind, anxious to see Alexia. You had a key to her apartment but this surprise felt worth knocking and waiting for her to open the door, so you kept it tucked away in the side pocket of your backpack.

She answered, a hoodie pulled down over her forehead, hair that had escaped her bun poking out around her face. The initial frown she had at being awoken broke into a smile and then tears.

"Oh, honey." You stepped into her and wrapped your arms tight around her. She burrowed her head into your shoulder, making her hood fall off. Zazu jumped onto both of your legs, barking in excitement.

"I needed you. And here you are," she whispered.

You brushed her hair back and kissed her forehead. "Come on. I'll make you some breakfast."

She hugged you from behind while you made food for both of you. Her arms tightened when you started pulling plates out of the cabinet. All you could do was giggle. Hungover Alexia was always so cuddly. Sad Ale was clingy. This Alexia was a combination of both of them.

“Are you going to let me go so we can sit at the table or do you want to sit on the couch?”

“Couch,” she mumbled.

"Carry this for me," you said, handing her one of the plates. You picked up the empty plate and took her free hand in yours for the short walk to the couch. Zazu had made himself comfortable on one end. His tail wagged excitedly when you walked closer to him. Skirting the coffee table, you put your plate down and then took Alexia's to set down. Sitting, you pulled her down next to you, letting your thigh rest against hers. Picking up her plate, you handed it to her. "Here you go, babe," you said gently.

You ate in silence, enjoying each other's presence after all these weeks apart. After breakfast, you both took a lazy shower. You washed her hair for her and let your hands wander. She told you she was beginning to feel half human by the time you got dressed. She asked to go for a walk with Zazu and you gladly agreed. After sitting on the train all morning, you needed some fresh air and exercise.

As you walked down the street towards Alexia's favorite coffee shop, you looped your arm through hers. Barcelona at Christmastime was a magic and you felt like you were walking in a dream. Zazu tugged excitedly at the leash even though he didn’t know where you were going. Multiple times, Alexia had to tug the leash to bring him back to the correct direction.

You took your coffees to the park, so Zazu could run freely for a bit. You cuddled up next to Alexia on the bench. The wind had picked up and you hadn't worn enough layers. She took her hat off and pulled it down over your ears.

"Thank you." You'd also made the mistake of getting an iced coffee. But when he said their special was an iced cardamom lavender latte, you couldn't resist it. It was also so good that you couldn't stop drinking it, despite how cold you were.

"So, what time do you leave for home?" she asked suddenly.

"I have a flight this evening." You traced small patterns on her arm.

"Today?" she asked sadly. "That's so soon."

"I know. I know. My mom was very annoyed that I pushed it even that long."

"Well, I'm really glad you were able to make this pitstop." She kissed your cheek, letting her lips linger a second longer than she should have in public. "I hated the idea of being alone."

"I hated the idea of you being alone too. Which is why I booked two tickets from here to Copenhagen. If I have to go home, you're coming with me."

"What?" she asked, sitting back in shock.

"Come with me," you said, taking her hand in yours. "I want to show you my life in Copenhagen. I want to wake up with you on Christmas morning."

"You're adorable." Throwing her arms around, she pulled you close. "Merry Christmas, Y/N."

"Merry Christmas, Ale." Before putting your arms around her, you let your fingers dance over the little velvet box in your pocket. Christmas in Copenhagen wasn't the only surprise waiting for Alexia this year.

#alexia putellas x reader #alexia putellas imagine #ficlet #woso imagine #alexia putellas

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feelbokkie · 3 months

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What He Gets You For White Day (and how he gave it to you)

❤︎ March 14th: White Day ❤︎

☀️Feelbokkie M.list☀️

It’s basically the same as Valentine’s day, except now men are expected to hand over gifts of chocolate and other romantic paraphernalia to women. Traditionally, the gifts are white.

genre: fluff headcanon

pov: 2nd person

description: gifts that your either your best friend skz would give you for white day

pairing: bff!skz x gn!reader

warnings: mention of food

word count: 1,605

Love Day! Masterlist

방 찬 (Bang Chan)

Lego Flowers

this man was s t r e s s i n g about what to get you

it didn't help that he was being too picky about what to get you:

-> jewelry is too expensive and might put too much pressure on the confession

-> didn't want to give you candy or food because it wouldn't last long

-> didn't want to get you a stuffed animal because it was too simple

-> didn't want to get you flowers because they will die

decided on lego flowers because they wouldn't die

was stressed out you wouldn't like the lego flowers so he planned a simple little picnic

invited you over saying that he just wanted to hang out

when you walked into his dorm, you were surprised by the living room cleaner than it normally is. the coffee table decorated with cute little decorations and of course, your favorite foods

and the bag with the legos

he went ahead and got all of your favorite flowers and some that he thought would go nicely with them

he stood by the door nervously while you opened the gift

got excited when you asked him to make them with you

이 민 호 (Lee Know)

Your Favorite Dessert

you already knew that he was going to get you something for white day

but of course, he was going to make you work for it

played it off like he forgot what day it was

which you thought he was just teasing you

invited you out to hang out like it was a normal day

would ask you some random questions to slowly start to get on your nerves

"why are you so dressed nicely? we're just getting lunch."

"why are there so many couples out today?"

"is today a holiday or something?"

you nearly hit him

you knew he was teasing you because he couldn't hide the smirk on his face

and he was trying

eventually, he took you back to his dorm to relax saying that there were too many people out

which there were

asked if you wanted a snack and then came back with your favorite dessert with the words "happy white day" written on the plate/bowl

서 창 빈 (Changbin)

Swarovski Flower Ornaments

simplicity was never an option for him

this man is going to go above and beyond, always

he couldn't figure out what to get you at first

matching gym clothes?

a bracelet?

a necklace?

a ring?

flowers would be nice, he'd get you an expensive bouquet with a card and everything, maybe even a couple of balloons

but one problem

flowers die, balloons pop

was out one day with the maknaes and stopped so suddenly in front of the jewelry store that they all were concerned

his eyes fixated on the swarovski flowers in the window display

💡

went inside and immediately bought a crystal rose

leaving the maknaes even more confused

had a plan

he didn't want to just give it to you

figured out a way to hide it in a bouquet of white roses

he still wants to stay on the white day theme

gave it to you with a corny note that reads "i'll love you until the last rose dies"

황 현 진 (Hyunjin)

Flowers and a Stuffed Animal and a love letter

stressed out part 2

he's a romantic but he ended up overthinking what to get you too much

considered making you a painting but thought it might be...too much since you two aren't technically dating

yet

decided that simple was best

for now

he was set with the stuffed bear he got you and the flowers he picked out

until he wasn't

wrote down everything he wanted to say to you in a letter because he thought he might actually die if he had to say it to your face

and still, somehow, it wasn't enough

decided to spray the bear with the cologne he wears most often

that way when you hugged it, it would smell like him

he blushed when he thought about it and proceeded to scream into his pillow

a very concerned chan came into his room to check on him

was set with the bear, the letter, and the flowers

until he wasn't, again

our overthinking, romantic king

worried that the smell on the bear would eventually fade

quickly went out to see if he could find a bottle of the cologne on such short notice

ended up finding one and gifting it to you so you could refresh the bear when you felt like it

for good measure, he rubbed the bear all over himself before he went to meet with you

한 지 성 (Han)

A song

alexa, play 'i want to write you a song' by one direction

you tease him so much about how he hardly writes any love songs and when he does they are so tragically beautiful and written about fictional situations that this gift is mostly out of spite

he just poured every little thought he's ever had about you and all of the things you make him feel

somehow was the easiest song he's ever written

nobody could stop all the lyrics coming out of him if they tried

he actually started working on it on valentine's day after you gave him his gift

the title of his song is one of the nicknames for you that he uses most often

the difficult part of the song was working on the actual music

was working on it until right before the two of you met up

spent so much time working on the song that he didn't think about how he would present it to you

he couldn't just say "hey, i wrote a song for you"

well, he could but he would never

eventually settled with "hey, i wrote a new song. wanna hear it?"

proceed to hide in his shirt the entire time you listened to the song

you had to listen to it a second time to make sure you understood it properly

there were tears in your eyes because he wrote a song about you

"see, i can write love songs!"

이 용 복 (Felix)

Homemade Chocolate

debated for a really long time if he should play it safe and get you store-bought chocolate or make it himself

eventually decided to embrace the true spirit of the holiday and make then himself

thought would be easy because he bakes/cooks well, alone

so as long as he keeps seungmin out of the kitchen, he should be fine

unfortunately for fel-icarus, he flew too close to the sun and melted his chocolate wings and drowned in wonka's chocolate ocean

the first three batches were...well, they were attempts

made so many test chocolates that all of the other members and skzigi were sick and tired of sweets

after two weeks of nearly burning down the cuties dorm and somehow covering every surface of the kitchen in chocolate, he manages to make a perfect batch

got a cute little box, picked out the nicer-looking ones, and tied everything up with a cute little bow

watched you intently while you ate one

he was worried that you weren't going to like it

was relieved that you loved it and claimed that he was never doing it again

which he would every white day you two are together

김 승 민 (Seungmin)

A book

it was truly an underwhelming gift at first

you didn't know what to expect from him regarding a romantic gift but it certainly wasn't a book

he could tell that you weren't that excited about it but kept his mouth shut while you flipped through it

you froze when you would see random colors in the book

random highlighted line, notes in different colors, little doodle--

he annotated the book for you

pink for things he wanted to tell you

blue for things that reminded him of you

yellow for cute date ideas

orange for things he thought you would think were funny

purple for criticisms in the book

green for a hidden message for you to decode

underlines for emphasis

he would draw little stars and hearts around certain words

would write you notes and love declarations in the margin

after spending time together you went home and started reading

you kept a little paper with you so you could write down all the words for the code which later read "y/n, will you be my girlfriend/boyfriend/partner?"

he had to highlight individual letters for your name

양 정 인 (I.N)

Matching hoodies

loved the idea of having a couples' hoodie with you

he didn't know how or when to give it to you

you two spend the whole day handing out with you, doing coupley things

he was even wearing the matching sweater the entire time

he was too nervous to give it to you so he kept the bag with him

would think it was the perfect moment to give it to you and then talk himself out of it

he didn't know how you'd feel about having a matching clothing item with him

thought you would find it too cheesy

you didn't mind not getting a gift from you, you were content with just spending the day with him

eventually, towards the end of the night, he noticed that you were shivering and decided to give it to you then

you didn't realize that he was wearing the exact same hoodie at first

you just thought that he just had a gift for you the entire time and was too nervous to give it to you

which, you weren't technically wrong

it wasn't until you got home and were looking at your pictures from your night out that you realized that your hoodies had the same little design on the front

he even crudely stitched a little heart on the end of your sleeve

—

Buy me a coffee?

—

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joeys-babe · 4 months

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Joey B Imagines: Let Your Love Flow*

————————————————————————-

Summary: Valentine's Day with your husband, aka bestie, aka the love of your life.

Warnings: Fluff, little smut

Pairing: Joe Burrow x reader

Imagine Universe: Into The Mystic

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February 14, 2024

Slowly opening my eyes, I looked around trying to figure out why I had woken up.

After darting around the room, my eyes landed on Joe setting up for Valentine’s Day. We had a little part of our room that had a table in front of a couch.

We’d spent countless breakfasts on the couch watching TV, and this felt like the start of one of those.

I had to hold back a giggle when Joe rearranged a gift bag, card, and what seemed like a tray of food before stepping back to look at it. With his hands on his hips, Joe assessed the display before deeming it not good before moving the card around.

He did that a few times with different items before snapping a picture of the display with his phone.

When he turned around, I snapped my eyes back shut, trying to pretend I was still asleep.

I could hear the floorboards creak and the bed dip before a soft kiss was placed on my forehead.

“Mama…” - Joe whispered

He softly shook my shoulder to wake me up, and the first thing I saw when I opened my eyes was his smiling face and gorgeous blue eyes.

“Morning.” - Joe grinned

“Morning.” - you

I rolled over and burrowed into Joe’s bare chest, enjoying the warmth that he emitted.

“I have a very important question to ask you, baby.” - Joe

“What's that?” - you mumbled

Joe took a jokingly long deep breath before asking his question.

“Will you be my Valentine?” - Joe

I pulled away from his chest with a smile on my face, biting back the urge to laugh.

“No.” - you

“What?!” - Joe

“I'm kidding… of course, I'll be your Valentine, Joey.” - you

Joe leaned down and captured my lips in a sweet but thorough kiss.

“Cool.” - Joe smiled

A few seconds of comfortable silence went by before I blurted something out.

“Are you still wearing your jammies?” - you

I yanked the covers off of Joe to see that he was still wearing his V-DAY-themed pajama pants.

“Yes, I'm still wearing them.” - Joe laughed

“Good boy.” - you smiled

I put the covers back over Joe before cuddling closer to him.

“Wanna see what I got you?” - Joe

“Sure.” - you

Joe rolled out of bed before bringing everything over one by one. He started by putting the bouquet he got me, that was already in my favorite vase, on my nightstand. Then he put my gift next to it and handed me my card.

“Saved the best for last…” - Joe

He walked over with a large tray with three plates and two cups.

They were heart-shaped breakfast bagel sandwiches, a bowl of chocolate-covered strawberries, and two strawberry smoothies.

“Stop… you're too perfect.” - you

“Perfect for you.” - Joe

“Stop…” - you

I put a hand on his chest, feeling tears well up in my eyes.

“Aye, don't cry.” - Joe

“I love you so much it hurts.” - you sniffled

��I love you too.” - Joe grinned

——

During breakfast Joe and I completed our Valentine's Day tradition of watching The Notebook.

“You know, I love you like Noah loves Allie.” - Joe

“I'm already basically sobbing, are you trying to make me cry more?!” - you

——

After breakfast, Joe and I took a little shower together. I'd noticed that he'd been acting a little weird and keeping his back to me.

“Joe?” - you

“Mhm?” - Joe

“Why are you facing the wall?” - you

He didn't say anything, so I grabbed his arms and moved him to face me. My eyes almost immediately landed on his impressive erection. Now I understand why he was hiding.

“Just… ignore it.” - Joe

Joe was looking down at his feet with his cheeks flushed pink, embarrassed that he'd gotten hard. We'd agreed to not do PIV sex while I was pregnant, but that doesn't mean I can't get him off, right?

Reaching out and wrapping my hand around his cock, Joe’s head shot up, and his eyes went wide.

“Oh god.” - Joe

He immediately shifted his body till he was leaning against the shower wall, suddenly feeling unable to control his balance from the pleasure coursing through his body.

Joe’s hips bucked into my pumps as I jerked him off in every way I knew he loved.

“Mama.” - Joe moaned

——

Later in the day, we had a heart-shaped pizza, which confused the hell out of Tyson.

“How- how is it a hwart?” - Tyson

“They shape the dough before it's cooked.” - Joe

“But it's a circle!” - Tyson

“I give up.” - Joe sighed

Laughing at their interaction as I put pizza on everyone's plates, soon I felt two strong arms snake around my waist.

“You look gorgeous.” - Joe

“You look pretty handsome yourself.” - you

I leaned back against him and craned my neck to place kisses down Joe’s jawline.

“When we take pics for your parents and mine after dinner, you have to let me wear your red Cartier glasses.” - you

“You know you don't gotta ask, just take ‘em. They look better on you than me anyway. The color of your jumpsuit will match them perfectly.” - Joe

“Thanks.” - you

I hummed contently as Joe ran his big hands over my bump.

The moment didn’t last too long as it was interrupted by the sound of liquid hitting a hard surface.

“Uh oh.” - Tyson

I opened my eyes to see Tyson with fruit punch all down his white sweater and on the floor. Miles was jaw-dropped and wide-eyed, making both Joe and I laugh.

“Imagine how boring our lives would be without them.” - you

“Wouldn't trade the hecticness for the world, and thank god we don't have carpet.” - Joe

We both laughed, and Joe laid his head on mine, my hands covering his that were on my bump.

“You're the best Valentine ever.” - you

“You are too, baby. I'm happy to say you're the only person I've experienced Valentine’s Day with.” - Joe

“Me too.” - you

Soon, Joe would leave your embrace to grab Tyson and carry him like a rocket into the kitchen.

Joe took the red-stained sweater off of Tyson before wiping him down, tickling his belly in the process.

There's nothing I loved more than watching that man become a father.

“Momma!” - Miles

I walked over to him as he patiently sat at the dinner table. Without saying anything, Miles pointed at the pizza and looked back at me.

“What do we say when we want something, Miles?” - you

“Pweaseeee.” - Miles

“Yes!” - you grinned

I didn't know, but Joe was standing just a few feet away from me in the kitchen, just smiling and admiring me in my element of being a mom, just like I had done a few minutes ago when he was wiping Tyson off.

After I got a piece of pizza on Miles’s plate, Joe walked over, holding Tyson, and sat him down on his booster seat.

We had our Valentine’s dinner as a family and made heart-shaped cookies with the boys afterward.

At one point, Tyson stuck his hand into the flower when I wasn't looking and rubbed it on Joe’s cheek.

“Oh, you are in for it!” - Joe

Joe grabbed Tyson off the counter and sat him down on the floor to give him a head start.

I laughed as Joe “chased” Tyson around the living room.

“Crazy.” - Miles shook his head

Looking at him with a playful look on my face, Miles stirred the dry ingredients, seemingly unfazed.

He's literally an old man trapped in a two-year-old body.

All of the running around tuckered both Tyson and Joe out. I was absentmindedly shapping the cookies with Miles when I heard familiar snores coming from the living room.

I peaked my head in to see Joe sprawled out on the couch asleep, Tyson’s chubby cheeks buried in his dad’s chest as he slept on top of him.

Jogging to the kitchen to grab my phone, I went back into the living room to snap a quick picture of the moment.

——

After the boys were asleep upstairs, and Joe woke up from his nap, we munched on some of the remaining cookies.

Joe abruptly stood up from the couch and put a hand out to help me up.

“What?” - you

“We gotta clean the kitchen up.” - Joe

“Noooo.” - you whined

Eventually, Joe grabbed my hand and pulled me off of the couch.

He connected his phone to his speaker and pulled up my playlist when I wasn't looking.

I was wetting a dishcloth to clean the counter off when the beginning of “Let Your Love Flow” by The Bellamy Brothers started playing.

Looking at Joe with a grin, he strode up to me and took the dishcloth out of my hand before pulling me into his arms to dance.

Giggles escaped my lips as he spun me around and dipped me, the moonlight seeping through the blinds and lighting up the kitchen.

What really stuck with me from tonight was dancing to a lyric that fit this scene perfectly.

“Through the moonlit nights with your lover.”

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Authors note: hey y'all. HAPPY VDAYYYYYY.

#joe burrow #bengals #joe burrow imagine #joe burrow x reader #joey b #cincinnati bengals #joe burrow fan fic #joe burrow smut

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jerzwriter · 6 months

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The way I screamed when I saw this commission! The artwork is by the simply lovely, delightful & talented @rosefuckinggenius. If you have never commissioned her, you should! Rose, you're the absolute best, my dear! Thank you for bringing my babies to life this holiday season!

All is Merry & Bright

Book: Open Heart (Post Series) Pairing: Tobias Carrick x F!MC (Casey Carrick) Other Characters: Bryce Lahela, @mydemonsdrivealimo's Jensen Valentine, Vivian Carrick (F!OC), Jordan Carrick (M!OC) Words/Rating: 1,200 / Teen Summary: It's their second Christmas with little Samantha, and the Carricks are getting ready to take their Christmas card photo. As Uncle Jordan sets up the perfect shot, Grandma Vivian, Bryce, and Jensen provide the commentary. A/N: In my timeline, this would be taking place in Christmas of 2024.

With their coffee orders securely in hand, Tobias stepped into the vestibule of his townhome, careful to make sure ‘Hurricane Samantha’ wasn’t underfoot. A year ago, he and Casey wondered what it would be like when she began to walk and talk; now they knew, it only added to the joyful chaos they had come to know and love. It was as familiar as the warm vanilla cinnamon scent that had filled the air ever since Casey moved in and as welcoming as his wife’s loving embrace or his daughter’s smile at the end of the day.

He smiled as he placed the snowflake bedecked cups on their dining room table. The last four years of his life bore no resemblance to the thirty-six that had preceded it, and he wouldn’t have it any other way.

He was broken from his thoughts when he heard his brother's desperate pleas from the adjacent room. He was doing his best to keep Samantha occupied, but she was quicker than he thought, and the bowl of red, silver, and green-wrapped Hershey kisses was too tempting. As the toddler's tiny hand reached up and attempted to grab the bowl, Jordan was beginning to unravel.

“No, Sammy! No! I know Mommy and Daddy don't want you on a sugar high while before taking your Christmas pictures!”

But Samantha was undeterred. “Yum-YUMS!” She yelled, the bowl about to topple when her eyes lit up as Tobias lifted her from behind, placing her high atop his shoulders in one swoop.

“Uncle Jordan’s right, pumpkin. Let’s save the sugaring up for after, OK?”

“Wow!” Jordan was astonished. “You said I was right!”

Tobias shot his brother a wiseass smirk. “Yeah, well, even a broken clock is right twice a day! Where is Casey, anyway.”

“Upstairs, finishing her makeup.”

“Still?”

“She was all done,” Jordan shrugged. “But then Ma and Jensen had... opinions... so they’re upstairs giving her a makeover.”

“Oh, shit!” Tobias laughed. “Then we’re safer down here with this little firecracker.”

“My thoughts exactly.”

The three were descending the stairs at that very moment, and Vivian was happy to interrupt her sons.

“Hate to disappoint you, boys. But we smelled that delicious coffee the moment you came in. There’s no keeping us away.”

“Gam-mah!” Samanta squirmed excitedly, throwing her arms her grandmother's way, and Vivian instantly forgot about her coffee.

“Oh, come here, my little angel!" She cooed, retrieving her from Tobias's arms. "That’s right! Tell Daddy that Grandma’s here. His services are no longer needed!”

“Really?” Tobias sneered. “Because with all your complaints of wanting another grandchild, I think my services are most certainly needed.”

Jensen dropped his coffee cup to the table with a thud. His eyes rose to the ceiling as he let out a disgusted sigh. “Jesus...putting up with this shit is not worth the free coffee.”

“Maybe not,” Tobias said, pointing to a few bags on the table. “But there are also cookies from Parziale’s, and I’m ordering in Chinese after the photo... free crab Rangoon, Jen...would that make it worthwhile?”

Jensen would have answered if he weren't too busy shoving cookies in his mouth. He tensed up for a second when Casey's arms encircled his waist. “That’s the only reason he puts up with us,” she grinned. “Free food.”

Tobias let out a slow whistle as he walked to his wife, making a show of looking overhead as he did.

“You don’t need mistletoe... you can just kiss me,” Casey teased, making Jordan snicker.

“And suddenly Jensen is thinking he can just buy his own crab Rangoon.”

“Nah, we just tune them out,” a buoyant voice blurted. Bryce stepped into the room, his smile brighter than the lights on the Christmas tree. He stood next to Jensen and placed a quick peck on his cheek. “Besides, food just tastes better on Tobias’s dime.”

“I’ll drink to that," Jordan smiled with a raised coffee cup.

Tobias studied Casey's face, then kissed her forehead. “Not bad! Not bad at all! Who won the makeup battle.”

“Clearly, it wasn't Jensen,” Casey smiled. “He thought a little punk edge to our family Christmas portrait would go a long way.”

“And I made it clear that my foot would go a long way...” Vivian interjected. “A long way up his ass if he thought I would allow that to happen.”

“ASS!” Samantha hollered, and everyone but Vivian broke into a fit of laughter.

“See what you make me do!” Vivian scolded as she whisked Sammy into the living room. “Making me say bad words in front of my grandbaby.”

“There is a swear jar in the kitchen," Jensen noted.

“Yeah," Bryce added. "Between us and her parents, her college education will be funded before she turns two.”

“Amen to that,” Tobias laughed.

“All right, guys, as fun as this is, do you think we can start taking the pictures?” Jordan requested. “I do have a date tonight.”

“Oh, do you?” Casey teased.

“Yep,” Jordan grinned, playfully smacking his brother. “Someone’s gotta keep the Carrick rep going since this one decided to settle down.”

“That’s not our rep!” Vivian shouted. “You’re not getting any younger either, Jordan! Who is this person? Do we know them?"

"I think I know him," Casey winked. "Make it quick; Vivian is itching to plan another wedding!"

“Oh, pleeeease do!” Bryce groaned. “Please get engaged so she’ll get off our backs.”

“Little Lahela, by now, I thought you understood that I am quite capable of nagging all of you at the same time!”

“Oh! Trust!” Tobias laughed heartily. “Trust! She is!”

“All fun aside," Casey segued. " We should start the photos before it gets too close to Sammy’s naptime.”

“Yeah, we want to do it before my naptime, too,” Bryce added.

“You’re not in the photo,” Tobias reminded. “You can go nap now if you want."

“You know, I’m still insulted by that," Bryce complained. "Why aren’t we in the family photo?”

“Because you’re not their stepsons, no matter how much you may act like it," Vivian advised. "Now, if you want a family portrait, I suggest you two get mar...”

“Annnnd on that note, I’m going to our bedroom to nap,” Jensen announced before exiting the room.

Jordan was adjusting his camera when he teased. “I still don’t understand how those two have a key to your place, have a designated bedroom, and I don’t.”

"Uhm, we even have a little plaque with our names on the door," Bryce added gleefully. "It's bedazzled!"

“Contrary to what Ma says, they are the step-kids that came along with Casey when we got married.”

“Damn right!” Bryce nodded. “But now I'm going to join Jensen in our room. Let me know before you order Chinese, Dad. I may want to add a few things.”

“I would be shocked if you didn’t,” Tobias smiled.

“Sammy, come here, baby,” Casey beamed as her giggling little toddler wobbled over to her. “Let Mommy fix your sweater so we are all pretty for our picture!”

“I’ll admit,” Vivian observed. “Those sweaters wouldn't have been my pick, but they're definitely you two! Plus, they'll make for an adorable family Christmas card.”

Casey stopped what she was doing, exhaling as she snuggled under her husband’s arm. “Family Christmas card... our second. Can you even believe this?”

“Oh, do I hear disappointment there?” he asked sarcastically.

“Not even a little. But sometimes, I’m still astonished. How did we end up here?”

“Do I really have to explain how this came to be, Mrs. Carrick,” Tobias winked. "See, when a man and a woman fall in love...."

“OK, No!" Jordan insisted. “I don’t need to hear about how Sammy came to be.”

“No, we don’t,” Vivian agreed. “But I do need you to keep at it - in private! Because I sure would love a second grandbaby on next year’s card.”

“I think that’s her way of offering to babysit for us tonight,” Casey connived.

Tobias pulled his wife and Sammy closer. “Then, that's our queue! Come on, let's get this picture over with."

@choicesficwriterscreations @openheartfanfics

@choicesholidays It fits a few, but let's go with ... it's a tradition. .

Tagging the rest separately.

#choices fanfic #open heart #open heart choices #choices open heart #open heart fanfic #tobias carrick #bryce lahela #tobias carrick x f!mc #bryce lahela x m!mc #choices fanart #playchoices #playchoices fanfic #rosefuckinggenius #christmas #christmas fics #holiday fics

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transfloridaresources · 6 months

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[Photo ID: Rainbow gradient background image of bowls of fruit and vegetables. Two color photos are on top of this image. One shows a table full of food on a sidewalk at night. Some people are visible standing nearby. The other shows the ground next to the table full of bottled water, pizza boxes, and sandwiches in a bag. Text around reads 'St. Pete Food Not Bombs. January 03, 2024' and 'transfloridaresources.' /End ID]

We're revving up for an election year so prepare for a lot of political theatre that is going to be aimed specifically at trans people. A tangible way that you can combat the feelings of grief and despair is to look to your community and see where you can help. I would actually especially advise that you seek to go outside the LGBT realm and (respectfully) involve yourself with other groups, hear about other struggles. Trans people are not the first group to be targeted by society/legislature & many trans people have identities that intersect from other oppressed groups. The more you learn outside of your personal struggle, the stronger you become, the better ally you can be to others as well. Of course, across the state of Florida, the spaces you have access to will differ. That's part of why these accounts also exist, to boost individuals and causes online that you can give to if you truly can't access anything in person (I will have some posts coming up in a moment for that too, actually!). However, there is usually something somewhere. Look to your libraries, community centers, there's so many places. I recommend seeking out a Food Not Bombs location, if you need a place to start. These photos are from the St. Pete branch & if you're local to that you can find more info at @stpetefnb & come out too! Otherwise, take a look at the map at http://foodnotbombs.net/info/locations/ and reach out to see what's active. I promise you, the kindness you can provide to unhoused people does not go unnoticed & you will meet some great folks as well. Look into the history of any of the community leaders we look up to and you will see them doing work like this. Community must be nurtured, people need to be fed and cared for, in order for us to make progress otherwise. Don't let your personal grief stand in the way of achieving connection with a neighbor. Do not isolate. We all are more understanding and loving than we are made to believe we are, because paranoia and isolation breeds the best followers. Don't listen to any of that. Go out and spread love and get love in return.

#florida #trans #transgender #lgbt #st pete #st petersburg #food not bombs #trans positivity #mutual aid #community #solidarity #described

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ggukkiedae · 5 months

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COOK WITH ME, YEAH? EP. 2 || my best friend for almost a decade

uploaded on january 22, 2024 to the bangtantv youtube channel and weverse. dialogue in italics are spoken in english

content warning: briefly touches on the sopa incident (which you can find in the yoonmi.dreamies tag) and growing up as a child in the entertainment industry

Click Below to See the Video

miya: “hi everyone! it’s the second episode of cooking with miya, and i thought it was just about right, since last episode was with my other half, that i would bring in probably my closest other best friend outside of bangtan in today.”

she pulls out a jar from her fridge and plops it on the table, a heavy thud sounding out

she then opens the freezer and takes out half a pound of pork belly.

miya: “this friend, we’ve tasted each other’s cooking, but we have never actually cooked together despite us being friends for almost a decade now—“

she was cut off by the sound of beeping and someone yelling “i’m here!”. she laughed and shouted

miya: “i’m in the kitchen! looks like he arrived just in time.”

a figure in a hoodie and a coat popped into view, initiating a handshake involving foot taps and spinning her around as well before they ended it in a hug

she laughed and made him turn to face the camera

miya: “everyone, it’s donghyuckie oppa! but you guys know him better as nct’s haechan!”

haechan: “hi, i’m nct’s haechan! hold on, i’ll just hang my coat up”

the video cuts to them standing next to each other, haechan has his hands behind his back

yoonmi excitedly looks at him

miya: “you came earlier than i thought! i only started to defrost the pork belly now”

haechan: “knowing you and me, we’ll get distracted long enough while doing food prep”

miya: “true”

haechan: “i brought you something”

he takes his hands from behind his back, and offers her a paper bag. she looks inside and laughs

haechan: “what? why are you laughing at my gift?”

miya: “you brought me soju and beer?”

haechan: “you said we’re making a korean dish today!”

miya: “i’ll get the shot glasses”

she pulls two shot glasses out of the cabinet before filling them with soju and placing the the rest of the paper bag’s contents into the fridge

they clinked their shot glasses together before downing them and setting the shot glasses aside next to the bottle

miya: “have you ever drank while cooking?”

haechan: “i can’t say i have. what are we making?”

miya: “kimchi jjigae!”

haechan: “really?”

miya: “yeah, do you wanna cut the meat or the kimchi?”

haechan: “you don’t like handling meat, so i’ll do that”

miya: “oh? oppa is acting nice for the camera?”

haechan looks into the camera with a playful smirk, making her laugh

cut to them on the dining table, yoonmi has tofu, a bowl and a large container, haechan is next to her, but his side of the table has a chopping board, a bowl, some vegetables, and the meat

miya: “you can cut the meat however you like, just marinate it in rice wine later after”

haechan: “the point of that is?”

miya: “flavor and defrosting”

haechan: “right. is this the part we answer questions?”

a caption appears: cooking with miya invites miya’s friends over to bond with her while they look back on their friendship using questions initially suggested by army and questions miya herself found most frequently on social media posts of them together

she laughed as they both started on their tasks. the very first question popped up

when did you meet and what were your first impressions of each other?

haechan: “we met in 2014”

miya: “that’s right, jinki oppa introduced us! i think that was around january?”

haechan: “january 22, you were such a baby back then!”

a caption appears: coincidentally the day this video is uploaded is their decade as friends

miya: “so were you! i remember that day, we had lunch, then we ended up talking until late after dinner”

haechan: “i still remember jin hyung herding you into the car like a baby sheep”

she laughs before focusing on lifting the kimchi carefully and cutting it into pieces

haechan leaned back a bit and thought for a moment before leaning back forward and mincing garlic and while speaking

haechan: “i think my first impression if you was ‘wow, she’s a lot shyer than she seems’ because i knew you as an idol before i knew you as a person”

miya: “you knew me?”

haechan: “you were the first girl in a boy group ever, and you were known for being a shawol, of course i knew you”

he looked at her like he was offended, before grabbing the scallions he was going to cut up next and whacked her with it, making her scrunch her nose and shake her head at him

she dipped her gloved hand into the kimchi container and smeared it on his cheek before she grabbed an extra bowl to scoop kimchi juice into

he yelped and gave her an appalled look while she just laughed

the video cuts to them properly working

miya: “okay, okay. as for you, you seemed like a very funny guy from the start! that didn’t change, you’re still funny, but you’re also pretty sweet”

haechan: “of course i am”

miya: “oppa, you’re just playing the of course game at this point”

what are your names for each other in your cellphones?

miya: “hyuckie oppa with a sun emoji”

haechan: “princess yoonmi with a wave and a crown emoji”

miya: “wait, really? not hannah unnie?”

haechan: “yeah, you’re one of the three princesses in my phone”

miya: “me, hannah unnie, and your sister”

haechan: “exactly”

describe each other in one word

she started opening the tofu pack to slice it

haechan, who originally started slicing the meat once done with the vegetables, paused to look at yoonmi

he tilted his head in thought

haechan: “i think in one word yoonmi is sea”

miya: “what? why?”

haechan: “the sea is calming, mostly, but also because the sea can be both gentle and rough. it cannot be held back, and neither can you”

she looked at him, eyes looking a little more hydrated

he didn’t meet her eyes, so she smacked his arm with the back of her hand

miya: “… i’m never forgiving you if you make me cry in the middle of food prep with only one shot of soju in my system”

he cried out in false exaggerated pain, making her laugh

haechan: “crybaby. what about me?”

miya: “hyuckie oppa is the sun”

he raised his eyebrow at her

haechan: “you couldn’t be any more original?”

miya: “no, hear me out! yes, you’re a ball of energy and a warm person, but remember that the sun constantly shines, even during the night when we can’t see it. you’re just as great and hard-working even in moments when nobody is there to watch you, and i admire that”

haechan: “no wonder you’re a really coveted lyricist”

she hits him on the arm once again before the video cuts to them on her couch, another shot of soju being taken

the caption indicates they’re waiting thirty minutes for the meat to marinate before starting

what’s your favorite memory together?

she sat up excitedly, making him jump in surprise

miya: “i know mine!”

haechan: “already?”

miya: “yeah, oppa, do you remember that time in junior year when we were assigned to work together?”

haechan: “you mean the whole year?”

she gave him a pointed look for his sarcasm, making him laugh

she put her shot glass down and crossed her arms at him, so he chuckled and patted her knee

haechan: “go on”

miya: “it was the music theory class”

haechan: “right, we did a presentation on the utilization of negative space in music, but you were on tour while we were preparing”

miya: “i think i video called you more than i did my boyfriend back then because of how stressed we were”

he snorted at that, grabbing the bottle and pouring them another shot each

she opened a bag of chips, offering some in exchange to him handing her the shot, which they both downed immediately

haechan: “why’s that your favorite memory?”

miya: “i think that’s the time that i realized that, aside from spemding time together as friends, i like working with you in both career related and non-career related things”

he ruffled her hair, making her yelp and fix her hair while pouting at him

haechan: “awww you love me”

miya: “sure, let's go with that. and what’s your favorite memory?”

haechan: “easy. shinee world iii. i think that’s what solidified our friendship when we watched the shinee hyungs together. before that, i kinda thought you were just being my friend for the sake of not disappointing onew hyung”

she looked at him surprised, and he just gave her an apologetic smile

she turned her body to face him more, eyes wide in surprise

miya: “what? no way, i was just shy!”

haechan: “i know that now, but not then, so that’s how i felt! but we had a lot of fun, and we even had an impromptu dinner after both nights, so that was when i was assured that we were genuinely friends for real, and i knew we’d continue to be friends”

he filled their shot glasses while he was talking

she opened her mouth to say something, but closed it again, taking the shot

he gave her a look before taking a bit of chips for himself

haechan: “say it”

miya: “i said this in the intro, outside of bangtan, you’re my best friend”

haechan: “me? not haeeunie? or mark? or jisung?”

she rolled her eyes while he looked at her in fake surprise

miya: “oppa, you know this, we talked about this! hannah unnie is like a sister, and mark oppa’s my boyfriend, that’s different! but, if we leave mark oppa out of this, i’ve spent more time with you than i have any of my other friends, especially since we were classmates for two years and always put together for group projects”

haechan: “that’s good because you’re my best friend outside the group as well, especially after everything we’ve been through together”

yoonmi nodded, and pictures of them through the years appeared on screen

what was it like growing up together?

yoonmi snorted and looked at haechan

he looked back at her tilting his head

haechan: “what?”

miya: “i don’t think either of us grew up for a while”

he laughed, but nodded in agreement

haechan: “it feels like we stayed fourteen and thirteen, right? mostly because i started training at fourteen and you debuted at thirteen”

miya: “twelve and eleven if we go by that logic”

haechan gave her a look, but she just shrugged and looked at the camera

miya: “international age and before our birthdays”

haechan: “wait, you were eleven internationally when you debuted? that’s crazy!”

miya: “i was a mature looking kid”

haechan: “but you look exactly the same now”

she smacked him with a pillow, he laughed while defending himself

the video cuts to them sitting more calmly

haechan: “what was i saying? right, we were thirteen and twelve for a long time, then suddenly it just felt like we were mentally both teens and adults, just ageless, in kids’ bodies, didn’t it?”

miya: “it did. it's like a limbo of some sort"

haechan: "i've been told often... this actually goes for both of us, it's a topic we talked about just the other day, but i've been told i have a mature mindset despite having a childlike personality"

miya: "that's right, we get that a lot. although we are maturing now, there are just some things that don't change, and somethings that do. it comes with experience. you can't go through as much as we have and not have some sort of change or growth in the way you think"

haechan: "exactly! when you see the world, as cheesy as it sounds, and get put in multiple situations whether good or bad, your mind adapts and learns, changing the way you think. yet, we both started work at very young ages, which did cut our experiences of normal childhood quite short. that's what makes it feel like we're exactly the way we were back then"

miya: "taemin oppa, he was the one who warned me about how this would feel, but i didn’t think it would be that prominent. it’s different with kookie oppa, you know? he was like the big brother i was in it with. with you, and the other dreamies, actually, it just felt like there were finally people who got almost exactly how i felt”

haechan took his shot then poured them another one

she leaned back, seeming like she was reminiscing

haechan: “you were also the only person aside from haeeunie who never got annoyed with me in the early stages of our friendship”

miya: “and you were the first to see me as an equal and not as a little kid… even somi and daehwi thought of me as a baby back then”

he raised his shot glass to her

they clinked their glasses together and threw the shot back

haechan poured her a glass of water while she looked at her phone for the time

miya: “time to cook”

the scene cuts to the montage of them actually cooking

haechan fries the meat a little while yoonmi fries the kimchi

he pours the meat into the kimchi, considering the kimchi was in the bigger pot

they add in water and all the vegetables

the montage ends with a cut to them standing by the counter, waiting for it to boil before the next step

she reaches into the fishbowl of questions for the next one

are you guys okay after the sopa incident in 2017?

haechan: “put it back in the bowl”

haechan was quick to joke by holding the fishbowl of questions back towards yoonmi

she just laughed and placed the question on the counter

miya: “honestly, going through something like that isn’t just going to disappear from our memories”

haechan: “i like to think i’m mostly better now, but i’ve become really cautious and always double check with the people i’m with if the other people around us are who they’re supposed to be”

miya: “me too, and i get nervous if can’t find something that i know should be just there”

they look at each other, yoonmi dropped her head

haechan: “then we both had an eventful last quarter after that”

miya: “i think we traumatized our therapist”

they laughed and decided to take another shot

haechan: “but we’re mostly okay now”

miya: “we are, yeah. thanks for sticking with me then, oppa”

haechan: “thanks for staying friends with me, yoonmi, really”

he picked the next question and read it out while she added the kimchi juice to the pot

will you two ever release a song together?

haechan snorted and looked at yoonmi who just smiled with a sigh

he took over and added some gochujang and ssamjang into their soup, stirring them in while yoonmi took a step back

haechan: “we want to, but we haven’t actually talked about it, right producer and composer-nim?”

miya: “it’s always been an idea, but we’re either always busy or just not thinking about work when we hang out”

haechan added some soy sauce into the pot while yoonmi added in a small amount of fish sauce

haechan: “but it would be nice. you saw those videos of yoonmi working with dream that one time, right? it’s been almost three years since then, i wonder how her recording style changed. jungkook hyung said she’s stricter now”

miya: “so maybe i am just a bit more of a perfectionist now, but so are you!”

he laughed at her, pointing at the fishbowl

haechan: “our collab is to be determined. last question?”

if you could go back and tell your younger selves on mmc anything about your friendship, what would it be?

haechan: “keep sweets on hand at all times. not only does she crave sweets like a monster, but she needs it for her blood sugar”

miya: “hey!”

haechan: “i’m right, you know i’m right!”

miya: “… little me, be prepared to fight for your life with this one”

the doorbell rang, and there’s a sound of a door opening. yoonmi smiled and walked off camera, making haechan wrinkle his nose at what he saw.

haechan: “lee mark just kissed yoonmi”

she popped back into frame, mark with her, and jisung and hannah making her way to haechan’s side

hannah: “at least you were a distance away”

yoonmi laughed before making the three introduce themselves to the camera

haechan and yoonmi then cheered before he spoke

haechan: “we invited these three today to try our kimchi jjigae, and they’ll enjoy it if they know what’s good for them”

the scene then cuts to a montage of the three guests setting the table while yoonmi and haechan prepared the side dishes and the presentation of their kimchi jjigae

once the cut of the jjigae being placed on the table is taken, it goes to a wide shot of the five of them clapping and cheering

jisung: “i don’t think i’ve ever seen you two cook together before”

haechan: “we haven’t, this is a first time thing”

hannah: “it already looks better than when yoonmi and i tried to teach mark to cook”

mark: “hey! in my defense, i was distracted”

hannah: “by what?”

mark: “i’d rather not say”

haechan: “yoonmi, 100%”

jisung: “true”

yoonmi shakes her head and just claps once to get everyone’s attention and to save her boyfriend

miya: “okay guys, get your fill and try what hyuckie oppa and i made”

everyone happily fills their small bowls with the stew before trying it

sounds of approval fill the room

jisung’s eyes widen as he looks at the two cooks, mark pats their heads, and hannah is just happily eating her food

mark: “it’s amazing, you guys”

jisung: “hyung’s right! i think the others will like this”

hannah: “i don’t expect less from you two, this is great, this is a perfect from me”

haechan and yoonmi laugh in delight and high five before she turns to the camera

miya: “that brings an end to episode 2 of cook with me, yeah? thank you to my lovely boyfriend mark oppa as well as two of my closest friends hannah unnie and jisungie for coming over today to try our food. thank you to my best friend haechan oppa especially for cooking with me today. if any one of you would like to try what we made at home, the recipe will be in the description! see you next episode!”

the five of them wave to the camera, then the video cuts to black

after a few seconds, the screen is split into three, each showing mark, jisung, and hannah in once again what looks like yoonmi’s home office with a question along the bottom of the screen

what do you think of miya and haechan’s friendship?

jisung’s answer is shown first

jisung: “haechan hyung and yoonmi are interesting. hyung is loud and very full of jokes. he’s mischievous. yoonmi, is more on the quiet side, she’s a lot more reserved than hyung, but it works because they balance each other out. if i’m being honest, they are beneficial to each other in the way hyung brings yoonmi out of her shell while she helps him relax and ease his tension”

hannah is shown next

hannah: “honestly, those two are closer to each other than i am to yoonmi, which would surprise most people, but it makes sense to me. they’ve been friends longer than any of us have even known yoonmi, and both these sunshiney people who make the people around them endeared by both their friendship and their individual personalities. it makes me happy to know my twin flame gets along with someone i see as a sister”

last is mark’s cut

mark: “i actually really value their friendship. i like seeing them interact because i know from that that they have each other’s backs. i’ve known them both for so long, and i’m glad to say they have another person to turn to when they need it. it’s nice, you know? yoonmi deserves all the good things in the world, and, if for some reason the i’m not there to give it to her, there’s someone else i trust with my life to be there with and for her. haechannie, on the other hand, drives himself forward so much, so it reassures me to know he has someone to remind him to sit back for a bit and just live”

-end-

taglist: @sunflower-0180 @seaoffangirling @yourwonderbelle @1-800-enhypennabi @kamiiyou @strwberrydinosaur @uraveragefangirlsposts @caratinylyfe @1-800-minji @one16core @kimhyejin3108 @chansols @akshverse @toriluvsfics @billboard-singer @stopeatread @allthings-fandoms @jammingjaem

drop an ask or a dm if you wanna be added or taken out of the taglist 🥰 requests are also open!

#yoonmi.cwm #yoonmi.dreamies #miya #yoonmi #kim yoonmi #bts 8th member #bts female addition #bts female member

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boilsyouroil · 11 days

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Is Eclipse Okay Yet!? It’s Been Months!

Chapter 2 - Do Words Bite Back?

[ AO3 LINK ] - [ CH 1 ] - [ CH 3 ]

Word Count ; 1892

Date ; 2024-05-17

AU ; The Oil Au

Notes ; Eclipse might be okay soon. // And as promised, there’s cuddles!

Eclipse groaned as he walked. Where the hell was the popcorn located in this damn store!?

Moon sat with Sun, wrapped in a blanket and helping him organize their DVDs. "Moon, are you sure Eclipse was the best person to send out to get stuff? He's been away for like three hours."

Moon sighed, "He'll be fine, and if he's not he can call me." Moon pulled his blanket tighter over himself. He always got a bit of anxiety when Sun began to worry. Maybe it was just paranoia, but a part of him worried now that the thought was in his head.

Solar, Earth, and Lunar soon arrived. Earth has brought cupcakes that Lunar decorated, and Solar had blankets, lots of blankets.

The blankets ended up being used in a fort, and the movie picked was Mrs. Doubtfire, as suggested by Solar.

"Don't start the movie without me!" Lunar yelped as he dived into the fort. This earned various sets of laughter from everyone in the room.

Sun groaned, "Where the hell is Eclipse!? We still need our snacks to start!"

"We need Eclipse to start!" Solar choked when Earth said that.

Moon sighed as he pulled up the movie, "We aren't waiting for Eclipse, he'll get here when he can. Besides, he's seen this movie before."

Everyone got into their spots, Earth and Solar next to eachother, Lunar with his recently replaced Spigot, Moon and Sun cuddling up to eachother for warmth.

Eclipse groaned as he carried the bags into the house. He prepared all the snacks and drinks and went up to the movie room. He noticed the fort and frowned.

Of course Eclipse wouldn't get to join them in what looked like the softest thing ever. He knew they'd shoo him off as soon as they got their snacks.

As he shimmied his way into the fort to deliver snacks, Moon spoke up, "I think you forgot something."

Eclipse groaned, "What could I possibly forget?"

"Pajamas and one bowl of popcorn."

Eclipse laughed rolled his eyes, "Very funny, what the actual hell do you mean?"

Earth, who had been paying more attention to the conversation than the movie, immediately tried to explain, "I think he means that you forgot to put on pajamas and get a snack for yourself."

This earned a minor look of surprise from Eclipse, though it was quickly replaced with his nearly permanent cold stare. He let out a sarcastic chuckle and got up. He'd just watch a movie in his head and curl up under... nothing.

Yeah, that sounded like a plan. But about halfway through his own movie, the others had finished watching theirs. While everyone was replenishing their snacks before watching another movie, Moon noticed Eclipse sitting on the couch silently.

He walked over to the taller animatronic and tapped his shoulder. Eclipse flinched and nearly fell off the couch. Moon held back a laugh as he spoke, "Why didn't you come and watch the movie? We invited you to join us."

Eclipse stared at Moon for a solid thirty seconds before coming up with a response, "I'm not gonna just sit around and watch a movie with people I don't even like, that would be dumb!"

Moon sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose. He groaned and hooked an arm under Eclipse, dragging him into what was previously assigned to be Eclipse's bedroom. "Pajamas, now. Don't come out until your ass is all comfy cozy or whatever."

Eclipse snorted at the terminology Moon used. Of course he would say something so childish. "Fine, oh Moon your majesty!"

After having forced Eclipse to pick a snack and the arrivals of Jack and Frank, somehow the entire celestial family had been shoved into the blanket fort. Eclipse tried to escape, but every time he made his way to an opening he was yanked right back in.

He didn't like practically being on top of everyone else. So many different clothing materials, different body temperatures, and different sizes. Earth soon noticed and wiggled over a bit to make room amongst the pillows and blankets, which Eclipse hesitantly but happily took over being sprawled across five people.

About halfway through the movie, specifically a movie about a dog trying to find its way back home, Eclipse snapped back into reality. He was trapped under a heavy blanket with an arm around his body and someone underneath him. He had fallen asleep and been carefully tucked into a blanket and moved.

Sadly his nap was short lived due to Moon having sneezed in his ear. He looked down at two bowls sitting next to whoever he was on. One was empty, and the other had what looked like melted ice cream in it. Of course he forgot he had gotten a snack.

The person under him shifted a bit and tucked the blanket tighter around him. He could tell now who it was based on the size difference, this was Earth.

Eclipse wondered for a moment, what would happen if he alerted her that he was awake. Would he be pushed off? Or would they pull him closer? Would they even notice?

His train of thought was cut short as he felt a hand underneath him and another around him, pulling him from the warmth and safety of Earth's body. He whined, which earned a small chuckle from whoever was yanking him up and away.

Eclipse turned his head a bit to see that Moon was the culprit of his removal. He groaned softly, too tired to fight back.

Hell, Eclipse couldn't move if he wanted to, the weighted blanket was tucked around him so perfectly he was practically swaddled like a baby in it.

Moon's face softened. He whispered when he set Eclipse in his lap, "I'm sorry for waking you up, go back to sleep."

Eclipse let out a long huff and very hesitantly settled against Moon. It wasn't long before he was dead asleep again.

Eclipse woke up again. He whined and squirmed against the blanket. As he finally opened his eyes, something blocked his vision.

He tried to get it away, earning a chuckle from whoever was in front of him. He sat there for a moment before he felt something press against him very suddenly. He flinched and tried to get away from whatever it was.

The sudden sound of a car horn, followed by Monty yelling, was the last thing Eclipse heard before he was right back to sleep again.

Eclipse groaned as he sat up. Where the hell was he? A quick look around the room and he realized he was at Monty's place. Of course! No place better to wake up than the couch on someone you don't even care about.

It was midnight, according to his internal clock, and sadly he couldn't go back to sleep. He got up and began to wander around the house. As he made his way into the kitchen, he was stopped by someone trying to get to the living room.

Puppet smiled at him, "Hey Eclipse, I was just about to come and wake you up. Do you want some ice cream, y'know, 'cause yours melted earlier?"

Eclipse groaned and pushed Puppet aside, heading right towards the fridge. He began to look for literally anything edible.

"Eclipse, I'm serious, I can get you some ice cream or something."

"I don't want ice cream."

"Then what do you want?"

"Actual food, and something to do."

Puppet smiled and closed the fridge.

"We can do that. I was about to take Jack to Popeye's, you wanna come along and then afterwards we'll go to a bookstore or something."

Eclipse sighed, "Do I have a choice?"

"Not really, come on."

He suppressed the urge to groan and followed Puppet out of the house. Not far ahead was Jack, clearly excited to go out and do something.

Eclipse sat stiff, after the recent events, all of that felt like a dream. Now he was sitting next to Moon, waiting for the final touches on his new body so his AI could be transferred. He could finally get the hell out of this damn place.

A hand coming to rest on his shoulder brought him back to reality. He looked up and saw Moon looking back down at him with tears in his eyes.

"Are you sure you know what you're doing?"

"I'll be fine, Moon. You'll have Solar back, and I can get the hell out of here."

Moon sighed, then did something he never thought he would do. He crouched to Eclipse's level and hugged him.

"Thank you, Eclipse..."

There was no sarcasm, no anger, no hatred, no hostility. Just a genuine thanks. Eclipse felt his eyes sting with tears, but he quickly shoved that feeling away.

For a moment, he wanted to stay, to not leave. But he knew he had to, so he pushed that feeling down, just like every other feeling he's ever had.

He was brought out of his thoughts by a hand on the back of his head. He nearly melted at the touch.

"What's this...?"

Eclipse winced and ducked away from Moon's hand. Whatever he had touched sent a small shock through Eclipse.

"Don't touch that!"

"I have to get it out in order to plug you into the computer."

"Are you fucking kidding me...? God fucking damnit!"

Moon sighed, "Just relax and let me pull it out, okay?"

"I just said not to touch it!"

"I have to plug you into my computer to move you to the new body."

"I know!"

"Then let me do my fucking job!"

Eclipse sighed, "You can't take it out without damaging this body."

"Then what am I supposed to do!?"

"I'll handle it later!"

"Fine, but I'm gonna be there the entire time. I don't need you getting yourself killed."

Eclipse stood up and moved to leave the room. He decided he'd go spend some time with Earth. She wasn't too bad, at least she didn't hate him.

It wasn't long at all until he found himself standing on Monty's doorstep, ringing the doorbell. The moment he saw Earth, he forgot about everything else.

"Hello, Earth..."

"Hello, Eclipse. What brings you here?"

"Nothing much. I just wanted some company, is that an issue?"

"No, not at all! Come on in."

He stepped in, following Earth to the living room. Monty looked up at him in a way that made him want to run out of the room and hide.

"What the hell is he doing here!?"

Earth looked mildly offended at that, and stepped in front of Eclipse.

"He wants to obliterate me- No I'm joking he just wanted to hang out!"

"Fine, but one wrong move and he leaves."

Eclipse soon found himself sitting on the couch with a heated blanket and an arm over his shoulder. He didn't remember when it got there, but that was okay.

On the screen was some random show He didn't care to know the name of. On either side of him were the other two people in the house. Eclipse smiled softly, feeling a few fingers gently caress his rays. He let out a relaxed sigh, his tension fading away with each soft pet.

Monty watched the two, only just now beginning to realize that Eclipse wasn't evil, just lonely.

#boils your oil #fnaf #sams #sun and moon show #tsams #dca #fnaf security breach #the sun and moon show #sams moon #sams eclipse #IEOY posts #Is Eclipse Okay Yet!?#oil writes #sun and moon show au #sun and moon security breach #sun and moon show eclipse #tsams fanfiction #fanfic #sams fanfic

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pumpkzsafeplace · 5 months

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story-telling week 2024 ⁺₊✧

good evening my little babybees,

and welcome to the national story-telling week of 2024.

every day for a week we will be telling stories, so grab your favourite stuffie and snuggle in close for tonight's tale ☾.

title: in space. written by: daniel errico.

I’ve decided I’m moving. I’m running away.

I’m bored of this room and I’d rather not stay.

The best place to live for a girl such as me,

Is space, with no rules, and no grav-ity.

My cat Bill and I will need astronaut suits.

Our feet will be fine if we take some snow boots.

We’ll wear yellow gloves, that you use to wash dishes.

And bowls on our heads where we used to keep fishes.

I know that it’s s’posed to be called a fishbowl.

But no fish are left since Bill swallowed ‘em whole.

For our bodies I have found us some trash bags to wear.

With our shiny new suits, we will be quite the pair!

Now the spaceship dilemma is easy to fix,

I built one last summer… you know, just for kicks.

Space is enormous, you can fly all around.

I bet I’ll see planets that nobody’s found!

As for space monsters, I am not that afraid.

A monster’s a friend that you haven’t yet made.

First thing I’ll do, is go looking for Saturn.

And fly through its rings in my zag and zig pattern.

Next I’ll go zipping by Venus and Mars.

It’s easy since spaceships are faster than cars.

Bill thinks that Neptune, has birds everywhere.

He’d be rather mad, if we didn’t stop there.

Mercury seems like a great place to tan.

But it might be too hot if I don’t pack a fan.

When I’m hungry, I’ll munch on some Jupiter fruit.

I hope that the juice doesn’t drip on my suit.

On Uranus I’ll put on a wonderful play.

The whole solar system can come — if they pay.

It’s freezing on Pluto, especially at night.

But it’s famous for hosting the best snowball fight.

Eventually, I will fly back to the Earth.

It’s really quite beautiful, for what it’s worth.

In fact, there’s no rush to explore space just yet…

There are creatures down here that I still haven’t met.

I can’t help but dream about all that’s in space.

But for now I’ll enjoy what is here in this place.

↳ linkies for full book with pictures! - here <3

gif isn't mine

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queenofbaws · 5 months

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aw snap, here we go again!

just another quick organizational update from ya gurl: my goals for the immediate future are (1) finish CREEPS: MM&BS, (2) get out a chapter or two of like wringing blood before my brainworms eat their way through my skull, (3) work on finishing the tale(s) of the champion. so if you're someone who's been waiting on any of those projects, i promise...they're comin'. hehehe.

i'm really, truly set on tying up the wips i've left gathering dust this year, so i'm trying my haaaaaaaardest to rein my ever-fleeting attention span in to do just that. i'm tossing a snippet of each of those three above-mentioned projects below the cut for anyone who's interested, and, as always, thanks so much for reading and hangin' out with me, y'all :) you guys are the best, and i hope 2024 is treating you kindly so far <3

of mummy men & bathtub soup

He wasn’t sure why he said it. Brotherly antagonism, maybe, or his pathological need to run his mouth at the worst possible time. Both felt like strong contenders. Whatever it was that spurred him on, the result was the same: As Julia sputtered, trying and failing to remember the story that had pissed her off so intensely in the first place, Conrad opened his mouth and finished the sentence for her.

“…bathtub soup guy?”

BANG!

The basement door slammed shut.

Before any of them had time enough to flinch, to jump, to yell at the sudden noise, the lights went out completely, sending the basement into perfect darkness.

Then there was yelling.

“Is…is everyone okay?” Alex asked a moment later, his voice missing the cool and confident mark by a couple notches.

“I, y…yeah,” Julia answered, and wouldn’t you know it, her fury had gone out like a candle in the wind.

“I’m good,” he said, nodding before realizing, whoops, right, no one could see. It was then, in the nervous stillness of the dark, that he noticed someone had grabbed his hand in theirs, no doubt grasping for him in fear and surprise. He couldn’t say it healed it battered ego, not after he’d been treated like a punching bag all night, but it certainly helped. “What about you, Fliss?”

From somewhere behind him, not beside him, she snorted. “I think I’ll live.”

“I…wait, if you’re there, whose hand am I holding?!”

“Uh, sorry, man. I got scared.” “Brad, for the love of—”

like wringing blood from a stone

“JEEED!”

Jack stopped an arm’s length away from her.

“TRAAAVIS!”

He opened the fridge.

“BOBBYYY!”

After a moment of deep contemplation, he pulled a beer out and shut the door again, using his thumb to pop the cap off. He looked her way once more, but instead of attacking her or grabbing her or plain old saying anything to her, he simply brought the bottle to his mouth and drank.

He watched her as he drained the damn thing, his throat bobbing. Just swallowed, swallowed, swallowed…not stopping until the bottle was empty. Not breathing until he’d finished.

“TRAAAVIS!” Constance yelled a second time, willing him to appear with his gun drawn and lather high.

“Give it another go, why don’t you,” drawled Jack. He set the bottle down in the sink, then braced his hands on the countertop behind him. His eyes kept moving across her face in a way she didn’t appreciate. “Third time’s the charm.”

She drew another breath, but didn’t dignify his taunt by shouting. Instead, she brandished the knife. Dared him with her eyes.

The ghoul just kept leaning back against her counter, though; his fingers left brackish smears wherever they touched. “Go on,” he mocked her, “keep hollering. See who comes running. I’d like to see for myself. Awful curious about it.”

the tale(s) of the champion

Josephine’s attention (and eyebrows) shot up from the desk. Her face had taken on the pallid cast of someone who’d had the bad luck to spot an especially large and hairy spider shriveled at the bottom their morning breakfast bowl much too late for anything to be done about it. Had she been speaking to anyone else, the Inquisitor might’ve thought that was the expression of someone staring their own death in the face, and yet all she’d done was present Josephine with the very probable reality that Hawke had simply bunked in Varric’s room for a single night of her stay.

“…I just figured,” she continued carefully, her words made slow as they crept forward on delicate tip-toes, terrified of tripping another unseen trap, “They were probably catching up after all that time apart, and since they were essentially always sharing space in Kirkwall…” Her voice trailed off and she shrugged.

It was logic, wasn’t it? Nothing more, nothing less? If one of her own friends from her life before (before all of this madness, before the Anchor, before Haven, before being pushed out of the Fade) had shown up on her doorstep out of the blue, she would’ve insisted on keeping them close. It only made sense!

Not to Josephine, it seemed. “But Varric’s quarters are so small,” she said in a voice more suited to, perhaps, finding out the crown Prince of Starkhaven had been assassinated. “Oh I certainly hope you’re wrong about that, Inquisitor, I hope she found other lodgings if she did in fact stay the night…I can’t imagine there’d even be room for two people in his quarters…Andraste, they would’ve been right on top of each other the whole time!”

#queenie rambles #queenie writes supermassive #queenie writes dragon age

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elsanna-shenanigans · 5 months

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December 2023/January 2024 Contest Submission #9: a pinch of salt

Words: ca. 5,000 Setting: modern AU Lemon: no CW: none

With a low grunt, Elsa lifted the bag of flour to spill into the industrial mixer. Holding her breath and turning her head away while a puff of flour wafted out of the steal bowl. She didn’t need to measure, the cupcakes she was making required the entire bag and if it was a little off, no one ever seemed to notice. This wasn’t Paris anymore after all.

It was a big shift from quantity over quality. She still did her best on the more specialty confections, the ones in smaller batches. But with these cupcakes, she simply couldn’t, they were made and bought in mass.

“Good morning sweetie,” Elsa’s mother said, pushing open the back door with her shoulder. Letting in both the sounds and smells of the city. It closed with a soft thud and the noise in the back room was once again just the hum of the equipment. “I got you a latte.”

“Mom, we can make lattes here.” Elsa sighed, crumbling the empty bag and brushing off her apron.

“Yes, but that little shop on the corner has the egg sandwiches your father loves. And I just want him to be happy, he’s really struggling.” Iduna dipped her head and placed a small paper bag and a coffee cup on the counter near Elsa.

“I know.”

“I got you some food too, I can’t just go in there and buy one sandwich, that would be weird.” Iduna laughed, it sounded a little forced but Elsa chose to ignore it.

“Well, you can, but thank you I didn’t have time to make anything.”

“Hmm, I figured and you can drink this coffee now while I get our machine set up.”

“Thank you, Mom.” Elsa opened the paper bag and took out the egg sandwich. her mom smiled and disappeared through another door that led to the upstairs. She glanced over at the mixer, debating for a moment before she leaned back and ate. Better to eat it while it’s hot, the cupcakes could wait a few minutes.

***

“And that wraps up today’s cafe adventure, make sure to leave a comment with your suggestion for my next cafe. Thanks for watching!” Anna smiled and held of the peace sign, counting to three in my head before she flipped the phone around and stopped the recording.

She took a sip of her drink and looked around the busy cafe, glad that she had long since grown out of being embarrassed of filming herself in public. Truly no one really cared, specially in cafes where folks were in and out with a snack and drink or deeply buried in their work of choice — hunched over laptops.

Anna pulled out her own laptop, a few minutes later she was deep in editing mode, headphones on, computer glasses askew. A little notepad sat next to her where her marked notes for a voice voice she would record later.

The cafe thinned out around her, settling into the mid-afternoon calm before the teenagers and after-workers descended in masses. This was Anna’s favorite time at any cafe when she could really look around and enjoy the decor and little unique touches. This place was rather ordinary. Anna found herself stretching to come up with some positive things to say.

“Miss, we have two hour limit unless you buy something.” A tired looking barista said.

“Oh I’m sorry, I’ll just pack up and get out of your hair.” Anna smiled and the barista just sighed and nodded, drifting off to another table. Anna debated buying something on her way out as an apology, but the only non-drink items were some basic-looking chocolate chip cookies. She shoved her laptop in her backpack and shouldered.

“One cookie please,”

“Sure,” the person behind the counter said, scooping the cookie into a paper bag and handing it over in one smooth action.

Outside the cafe, the early evening was just starting to kiss the city, long shadows and slow traffic. She started walking, no destination, just to wonder till it got dark and then she would navigate the subway system home from wherever she ended up.

She passed a homeless man, sitting on a small blanket with his back leaned against a wall. People passed without paying him much mind. Anna approached and he eyed her but made no other moves.

“Here, I just bought it,” Anna said, offering him the cookie.

A weather-worn hand reached out and grabbed the bag, “Thank you, young lady.” He said offering a smile.

Anna returned it before continuing, hopefully the cookie would brighten his day a bit.

“Jimmy get the door.” A woman shouted once Anna rounded a corner. Only Anna didn’t see a woman, she only saw a stack of purple boxes wobbling towards a waiting town car and a panicked-looking young boy who was opening the door while his eyes, wide and frightened, stared at the stack of purple.

Anna held her breath but the woman was able to safely get the boxes into the back seat and she breathed out a sigh of relief at the same time as the boy. The pair of strangers disappeared into the car and it pulled away into traffic. She glanced at where the woman had come from and was surprised to find a combo cafe and bakery.

She pulled out her phone and googled the location. ‘Fjord Flavors Bakery’ popped up on maps but lacked a website or any social media. Anna’s interest spiked, this could be the hidden gem she’s been looking for for her web series.

She walked up to the door at the same time someone did from the other side of the glass. A woman. Tall and blonde, stood inside the shop. She looked at Anna for a moment as if waiting for something before she reached up and flipped the sign on the door to closed. She pointed with a long finger to a faded paper sign with hours before turning her back and walked away.

Anna was left speechless and intrigued, she needed to know more. She attempted to look through the windows at the bakery counter but the lights were flipped off and Anna was left staring at her own reflection.

***

Elsa pushed through the door to the back and hung up her apron. It was quiet now in the back room save for a faint hum from the walk-in fridge.

“Hi sweetie,” Iduna said, opening to door to the apartment upstairs. “I scrubbed the floors and wiped everything down already. You just need to take the trash out.”

“Thanks Mom,” Elsa said, rolling her sleeves up. “What did you want for dinner?”

“Oh, your father really wants Chinese takeout if that’s okay.”

“Yeah, that will work,” Elsa said with a sigh. “I’ll just get my usual. I’ll be up after this.”

“Alright sweetheart, I’ll call Wok The Block.” Her mother disappeared through the door. Elsa took the trash out, wrinkling her nose at the smell and pretending not to see the rats scurrying away from the shared dumpster.

She looked up at the glowing window of the second floor where she shared an apartment with her parents. This wasn’t where she had imagined herself being but life is weird like that.

“Hey dad,” Elsa said as she finally walked into the apartment. “How are you feeling?”

“Oh, I’m doing great honey, I think I can come downstairs and help tomorrow.” Her father replied, his voice raspy.

“That’s great dad.” Elsa forced a small smile, it was the same every day. But he was never well enough the next day. She often flipped between annoyed and missing the man her father used to be before he got sick, before Elsa came back home to help.

***

Anna held up a hand to shield her eyes from the early morning bright sun, well early for her anyway. She was making her way back to Fjord Flavors Bakery, she needed to scope it out and make sure they were okay with her filming a vlog in there. Most places had no issue but she always asked anyway.

The bakery was fairly busy with sleepy patrons and frantic-looking folks of intern age. It smelled like a lovely mix of coffee and fresh bread with a hint of sweetness. There were stacks of purple boxes in various sizes on nearly every counter behind the register and the sparking large glass case showcased everything from chocolate moose cake to simple bagels.

Anna was captivated, her eyes darting around the small shop, bouncing from various things in the glass display case to the handwritten menu board. She didn’t notice she was next in line till a warm voice cut through her thoughts.

“What can I get you this morning?”

Anna blinked and chewed on her lip. “Um, a vanilla latte and a—“ She looked over at the case, noticing the blonde woman from last night for the first time. She had a baseball hat pulled down low on her face, hiding most of it in shadow as she moved with an almost floating grace, putting goods in boxes or bags.

“Sweetheart?” The woman at the register asked again. She was older but looked much like the blonde woman, at least from what Anna remembered from the few seconds she saw her on the other side of the glass.

“A chocolate muffin please.”

“Good choice, you can tap your card when you’re ready.” She didn’t wait for Anna to finish paying before turning around to begin working on Anna’s latte.

As Anna waited for her latte and chocolate muffin, she couldn’t shake the feeling of anticipation that fluttered in her chest. The bustling atmosphere of Fjord Flavors Bakery seemed to envelop her. She pulled out her phone on instinct, realizing at that moment that she forgot to ask about filming, too distracted with the baked goods. And, if she was honest, the younger of the two women behind the counter. Something about her just captivated Anna.

Lost in her thoughts, Anna’s eyes inadvertently met those of the mysterious blonde woman. A brief moment passed between them, a flicker of recognition that left Anna both intrigued and slightly unnerved. The woman’s gaze was penetrating, as if she could see through Anna entirely.

The older woman at the register, likely the mother of the intriguing figure behind the counter, smiled at Anna, snapping her out of the momentary trance. “Sweetheart, your card didn’t go through.”

Anna fumbled for her wallet and tapped her card again, grateful for the distraction. Once the reader beeped the older woman nodded her head and handed over her latte and muffin — enclosed in a little purple bag. Anna stepped away from the counter and took a sip of her latte before turning on one heal — committing before she could change her mind, and approached the younger woman who was still engrossed in her work.

“Hi,” Anna began, her voice carrying a hint of nervousness. “I was here last night, and I’m Anna, and I’m a food blogger. I was wondering if it’s okay for me to film a vlog here. Your bakery is so charming, and I’d love to share it with my audience.”

The blonde woman, her eyes still concealed beneath the shadow of the hat, looked up from her task. There was a pause, a moment of silence that stretched, leaving Anna wondering if she had overstepped a boundary.

But then, to Anna’s surprise, a small smile tugged at the corners of the woman’s lips. “Sure, you can film. Just try not to get in the way too much. We’ve got a busy morning ahead.”

Anna beamed with gratitude, her excitement bubbling over. “Thank you so much! I promise I’ll be quiet as a mouse. Your bakery is truly special, and I want to capture its magic.”

The woman’s smile vanished. “Can you not put my face in your video? You can film my mom, Iduna, she loves attention.”

“Yeah of course, no problem-o uh… I’m sorry I didn’t catch your name.”

“Because I didn’t give it, I usually don’t, but maybe I’ll tell you.” The blonde shrugged and turned around to busy herself with some other task, effectively ending the conversion.

Anna retreated to a corner, setting up her camera and adjusting the frame. The bakery’s ambiance, the hum of activity, and the tantalizing aroma of fresh pastries served as the backdrop for her vlog.

As Anna began recording, she couldn’t help stealing glances at the blonde woman, who continued working with a quiet intensity. The exchange between them felt charged with unspoken intrigue, a dance of curiosity and captivation.

***

Elsa continued her meticulous work behind the counter, arranging pastries with practiced precision. The rhythmic hum of the bakery machinery and the murmur of customers created a familiar symphony around her. She was engrossed in the delicate dance of crafting confections, her mind focused on the artistry of each creation.

The arrival of this new customer, Anna, occupied Elsa’s thoughts. She had observed the woman from beneath the shadow of her hat, curious about the stranger who had locked eyes with her the night before. Elsa’s eyes, sharp and discerning, followed Anna’s movements as she fumbled for her wallet and paid for her order.

Her mother, ever knowing glanced her way and gave her daughter a smirk. Elsa could swear that woman was some kind of mind-reading witch sometimes.

When the woman turned away from the counter, Elsa felt her heart sink a little only to have it completely flip over and she couldn’t help but feel a flutter of anticipation as she approached. There was something about this food blogger, Anna, that piqued her curiosity, a blend of charm and nervous energy that resonated with the essence of the baking itself.

Anna’s voice, smooth and kind sounding, reached Elsa’s ears and rang through them like a gentle song. The request to film a vlog seemed to echo through the busy bakery, and Elsa found herself torn between the desire to share Fjord Flavors’ story and the instinctive need to guard her own privacy.

The moment of silence that followed stretched, and Elsa locked eyes with Anna. The intensity of the gaze exchanged between them held a silent understanding, a recognition of the delicate balance they were navigating. When Anna’s request was met with a small smile, Elsa allowed a fraction of relief to wash over her.

“Sure, you can film. Just try not to get in the way too much. We’ve got a busy morning ahead,” Elsa replied, her tone measured. The decision to allow the filming was not without hesitation, but she couldn’t deny the bakery’s newfound visibility had its benefits. They needed more customers, they were barely breaking even as it was.

Anna’s gratitude beamed like a ray of sunshine, but Elsa’s smile faltered when the request about her face being excluded from the video surfaced. The vulnerability beneath the confident exterior became apparent. “Can you not put my face in your video? You can film my mom, Iduna; she loves attention,” Elsa stated, her voice carrying a mix of firmness and vulnerability.

“Yeah, of course, no problem-o, uh… I’m sorry I didn’t catch your name,” Anna responded, her enthusiasm tempered by the subtle shift in the conversation.

“Because I didn’t give it. I usually don’t, but maybe I’ll tell you,” Elsa said with a shrug, turning her attention back to her tasks. The brief exchange left an air of mystery hanging between them, an unspoken understanding that some stories were meant to be guarded.

As Anna retreated to a corner to set up her camera, Elsa returned to her craft, the dance of creation resuming amidst the inviting aroma of freshly baked pastries. The bakery’s ambiance, now subtly altered by the presence of a camera, continued to weave its magic, leaving Elsa to navigate the intricate dance between visibility and the sanctuary of the shadows.

****

Anna’s vlog unfolded seamlessly, capturing the essence of Fjord Flavors Bakery with a blend of charm and authenticity. Anna highlighted the meticulous craftsmanship behind each pastry, the warm interactions between staff and customers, and the unique charm that set the bakery apart.

The mysterious blonde woman, now a central figure in Anna’s narrative, moved gracefully through the frames, her hands expertly crafting delicate pastries. Anna didn’t realize until she was editing how much footage she got of the woman. That was not like her to make that much B-Roll.

The vlog, however, resonated with Anna’s audience, who eagerly embraced the enchanting story of Fjord Flavors. Within a few hours, it was already set to be one of her top posts. This was truly the hidden gem she had been looking for — she couldn’t wait to get back and film more.

As the week unfolded, the bakery continued to buzz with activity. The patrons, now aware of the filming, exchanged smiles with Anna. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of community, a shared appreciation for the hidden gem that had captured their hearts.

As Anna packed up her equipment, a few days later the older woman approached her, her eyes reflecting a mix of warmth and curiosity. “You’ve got a way of capturing the soul of a place,” she said. “We’re glad to have you share our story.”

Anna smiled, touched by the genuine sentiment. “It’s a special place, and your daughter… she’s something else. There’s a magic about her.”

The older woman’s eyes twinkled knowingly. “Elsa has always had a touch of magic. It’s what makes Fjord Flavors what it is. Don’t tell her father I said that though, he built the place.”

“Elsa,” Anna repeated, tasting the letters for the first time.

“Hmm, I don’t think I was supposed to tell you her name. Silly old me.” Iduna said, failing to hide a smirk. She turned and walked away before Anna could reply, disappearing into the back room.

“Elsa.” Anna repeated to herself as she glanced over to the counter again where Elsa herself was polishing the top of the glass case. Her hat pulled down so low that Anna could only see the very edge of her chin.

***

Elsa wiped her hands on her apron, the remnants of flour clinging to the fabric. The bustling activity of the bakery had quieted as closing time approached. Iduna, joined her behind the counter, offering a weary but affectionate smile.

“Another day is done,” Iduna remarked, her eyes reflecting a mix of exhaustion and resilience.

Elsa nodded, the weight of responsibility settling on her shoulders. “Let’s clean up and head upstairs. Dad’s probably waiting.”

Together, they moved with a practiced efficiency, tidying up the bakery with a shared understanding of the routine. The aroma of the day’s creations lingered in the air, a comforting scent that masked the underlying concerns both women carried.

Once the last tray was stored, Elsa locked the front door. They ascended the narrow staircase that led to the second floor. As they entered the apartment, the atmosphere shifted from the warmth of the bakery to a more intimate, subdued setting. The living room was adorned with family photos and traces of the life they had built together. Soft light illuminated the room, casting a gentle glow.

Elsa’s father was in his favorite chair, a worn blanket draped over his frail shoulders. His eyes, once vibrant, now held a weariness that spoke of battles fought within. Despite his illness, a flicker of a smile appeared and he sat up straighter as he saw Elsa and Iduna enter.

“Hey, Dad,” Elsa greeted, her voice carrying a mix of tenderness and concern. It had been months now and he hadn’t shown any progress. “How was your day?”

He coughed softly, a reminder of the fragility that had settled in and Elsa was painfully reminded that they couldn’t afford the medicine that could help him. “Same as always, sweetheart. You girls working too hard down there?”

Iduna leaned down to kiss his forehead. “You know us, always keeping things running.”

Elsa fetched a glass of water from the kitchen, handing it to her father. As he took a sip, his eyes met Elsa’s, and an unspoken understanding passed between them. The weight of their shared reality hung in the air.

“I’ll start dinner,” Iduna suggested, attempting to infuse the moment with normalcy.

Elsa remained by her father’s side, her hand gently resting on his. “You doing okay, Dad?”

He sighed, his gaze distant. “Just tired, sweetheart. But seeing you and your mother’s faces at the end of the day makes it all worthwhile. Your mother tells me the bakery has been a video-er the last few days.”

“Yes, we’re not paying her but it seems to be helping business.”

“I heard she’s really sweet and pretty and your mother told me I have to tell you to talk to her.” A familiar twinkle danced across her father’s eyes.

“I’ll try Dad.” Elsa replied, not sure how much she believed her own words.

Her father smiled and leaned his head back, closing his eyes. Elsa squeezed his hand, a mixture of love and sorrow coursing through her. The trio settled into the familiar routine of an evening together, finding solace in the shared moments that transcended the challenges they faced.

As the evening unfolded, the soft hum of family echoed through the apartment—a fragile melody that held within it the strength of love, resilience, and the unwavering bond that anchored them in the face of life’s uncertainties.

***

The following week unfolded with a rhythm of anticipation as Anna returned to Fjord Flavors Bakery. The atmosphere had shifted subtly as if the bakery itself recognized the growing curiosity that surrounded it.

Elsa, the elusive figure behind the counter, continued her work with a quiet determination. Her hat pulled low, veiled her expression, leaving Anna to wonder about the stories concealed beneath the surface. The name “Elsa” echoed in Anna’s mind like a secret she was on the verge of unraveling.

As Anna set up her camera for another day of filming, she couldn’t help but feel a magnetic pull toward the enigmatic blonde woman. It was a dance of curiosity and respect, a delicate balance that Anna had grown accustomed to navigating.

The day unfolded with the familiar symphony of Fjord Flavors—the hum of machinery, the aroma of fresh pastries, and the chatter of contented patrons. Anna’s lens captured the intricate details of the bakery, from the artful arrangement of desserts to the interactions between staff and customers.

While filming, Elsa’s hands worked their magic with practiced finesse. The vlog became a canvas, each frame painted with the passion and dedication that Elsa poured into her creations. Anna couldn’t deny the magnetic allure that Elsa exuded, and her camera seemed drawn to the mysterious pastry chef.

As the day wound down and Anna packed up her equipment, Iduna approached once more, her eyes twinkling with a knowing gleam. “You’ve been capturing the essence of Fjord Flavors beautifully, dear. My daughter may be a bit of a mystery, I’m afraid. There’s a reason I suppose, but I think she needs someone to talk to.”

Anna nodded, grateful for the hospitality she had received. “Thank you,” she paused before continuing, weighing her words. “Do you think I’m the person to talk to her? I’m just a vlogger, I can’t say I’m really friends with Elsa.”

Iduna chuckled softly. “Well, dear, I watch your vlogs and I know my daughter,” She looked directly into Anna’s eyes, her expression hard to read. “Sure, sometimes the best stories are the ones left untold. But I have a feeling Elsa might be willing to share a bit more, given the right nudge.” She winked and walked away.

Encouraged by Iduna’s words, Anna glanced over at Elsa, who was now meticulously arranging a display of delicate pastries. The hat cast a shadow over her features. Anna swallowed, she wanted nothing more than to have a meaningful conversation with Elsa. Even with her face covered, the woman drew Anna in like a moth to a flame.

Approaching Elsa with a newfound resolve, Anna couldn’t suppress the curiosity that fueled her, if Elsa was a cliff, she willingly jumped over the edge.

“Elsa?” Anna began.

Elsa jumped and visibly tensed, forcing Anna to fall silent. She turned slowly, cold blue eyes locking with Anna’s. There was fear there, a panic that stirred under the surface. And Anna wanted nothing more than to reach out and calm the storm.

“Elsa?” Anna tried again and was met with a scowl as Elsa rushed forward and placed a hand over her mouth.

“How did you learn my name?” Elsa demanded in a hushed whisper. Anna was distracted by how close their bodies were, never mind the strong hand over her mouth. With Elsa this close she could really see her face and the delicate features, the sharp cheekbones, the soft lips. She was beautiful.

She looked familiar…

Someone cleared their throat on the other side of the bakery and Elsa stepped back, letting her hand fall but her eyes never left Anna.

“Come into the back, we need to talk.”

“Aye aye, Captain,” Anna mumbled, she ran over to her bag and scooped up her belongings before following Elsa behind the counter and through the door into the back room.

***

The back room offered a small reprieve from the prying eyes in the bakery. Elsa closed the door behind them, the muffled sounds of the bakery now distant. She turned to face Anna, the air between them charged with unspoken tension.

Anna broke the silence first. “Okay, spill. Why the secrecy, Elsa? Which, by the way, your mom told me, alright?”

Elsa sighed, feeling the weight of the years of hiding settle on her shoulders. “I’m sorry I touched you without asking, it just caught me off guard and I got scared.” She took off her hat and ran a hand through her hair, letting her bangs fall. “As for the name thing… well, that’s on me. I should’ve been more careful I guess. But the secrecy, it’s a long story.”

Anna grinned, and Elsa could sense her eagerness and curiosity. “Long stories are my specialty. Lay it on me.”

Elsa motioned for Anna to sit at a small well-worn table in the corner. The old chair creaked as she sat down and gathered her thoughts, her gaze fixed on the floor. She was so tired of hiding, but so scared of being open. Yet this weird nerdy girl with a camera that kept coming back day after day had worn down a wall. And Elsa felt this urge to open up to her. Anna felt safe, and she liked that feeling.

With a sigh, she decided to just open the floodgates and see what happened. “I used to be a TV chef, you know? A pretty famous one, actually,” Elsa began, the memories stirring a mix of nostalgia and regret. “I had my own cooking show, traveled the world, won awards. It was everything I thought I wanted.”

Anna’s eyes widened with genuine surprise. “You were a TV chef? Seriously? That’s amazing! That’s why you look so familiar, I used to watch your shows. I was so upset you lost Iron Chef, that judge was stupid. Why’d you stop?”

Elsa sighed again, the weight of the past pressing upon her. “It’s a glamorous life, but it comes at a cost. The constant scrutiny, the pressure to maintain an image. I felt like I was losing myself. And then my dad got sick. So, one day, I decided to step away. I came back here, to my family’s bakery.”

Anna’s excitement tempered with understanding. “But why the secrecy? You could’ve been a sensation, Elsa! People would love to know the famous TV chef behind Fjord Flavors.”

Elsa’s eyes met Anna’s, revealing a vulnerability that went beyond the façade she had carefully crafted. “I don’t want the fame, Anna. I found solace here, away from the spotlight. I wanted to be able to focus on my dad and help him, and I did till my money ran out.” She picked at a piece of dried flour on her apron. I didn’t want people to see the TV chef; I didn’t want the food critics coming here and tearing this place apart just because I was famous. I just wanted them to enjoy the pastries.”

Anna nodded, absorbing the sincerity in Elsa’s words. “You’re not just hiding from the world; you’re hiding from your past. From who you used to be.”

Elsa simply nodded.

Anna’s gaze softened “You know, Elsa, I get it. Fame isn’t always what it’s cracked up to be. But your story, it’s captivating. People would understand.”

Elsa offered a small, appreciative smile and stood up. “Wait here.” She ran up the stairs into the apartment, pausing to check on her father who was softly snoring away. After grabbing the box she was looking for she ran back downstairs to find Anna looking around at the various machines.

“Look, I don’t know if this is the right thing or not, but if anyone was going to break the news that Chef Elsa has been here in this little bakery, I want it to be you.” Elsa held out the box to Anna who took it with a confused look.

“What’s this?”

“It’s a bunch of my old TV stuff, tapes, and photos, things you can use in your video. Everything in that box is all yours, consider it a gift.”

“No Elsa, I can’t take this,” Anna said, handing the box back. “You kept your privacy for so long, why now suddenly?”

“Because maybe you’re right. I thought people would judge me. But as you pointed out, people would understand. And I’m selfish for not using my fame to help my dad. So here we are.”

“Okay, but I have a better idea than I box of the past.” Anna bit her lip and looked up at the ceiling. “Two things, first, let’s let up an interview and I’ll film it. Second, let’s go on a date, get dressed up, have some drinks, and just talk about whatever.”

A warm feeling bubbled up inside Elsa and she couldn’t help but smile. “You mean that?”

“Well yeah, I have my camera stuff with me.”

“No, about the date?”

Anna’s face turned bright red. “Oh I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have overstepped, I just thought that uh… I’m sorry.”

“Hush, I would love to go on a date with you. I’ve been waiting for you to ask.”

#elsanna #December 2023 contest #prompt: spice #submission

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