#Best Places to Propose in Hawaii

[loulupalm]

Proposal Perfection: Hawaii's Most Romantic Places to Get Down On One Knee

One of the most romantic moments which a couple can experience is when one gets down on their knees and proposes to marry them, and for a perfect proposal setting, none beat the beautiful Hawaiian Islands. There are plenty of ways to pop the question on amazing Hawaii Island, featuring stunning sceneries, serene beaches, and breathtaking natural beauties. The Best Places to Propose in Hawaii await you in this blog, and each of these recommendations is an amazing setting where you get to romantically hug your lady love.

Hanauma Bay, Oahu

On the island of Oahu, Hanauma Bay is better known for its snorkeling activities but also forms a very scenic background for any proposal. From the rough volcanic cliffs that overlook the harbor, you can have extensive views of the blue ocean and multi-colored marine life beneath. Visiting around sunset provides an excellent view of colorful extravaganzas that will set up an ideal setting for your special occasion.

Polihale Beach, Kauai

Make it a genuinely romantic and secluded proposal at the hidden Polihale Beach on Kauai. The vast expanse of white sand and precipitous sea cliffs ensures no disturbance whatsoever, while the more-than-spectacular Na Pali Coast offers a dramatic natural backdrop. Find a secluded spot, get down on one knee, and create an eternal memory as you stroll across the tranquil shoreline.

Haleakala Crater, Maui

For most visitors, the view of the dawn at the summit of Haleakala Crater on Maui is something they will never forget. But if you're looking for the ideal spot to pop the question, plan a visit around sundown. Fall to your knee and pop that question with your future spouse as dramatic volcanic landscape lights up before them in a kaleidoscope of orange and pink.

Waipio Valley Lookout, Big Island

From Waipio Valley Lookout, enjoy a stunning view of the Big Island's unspoiled and raw Hamakua Coast. Take in the natural setting with the ocean shining in, the grassy valley, and all the tall waterfalls that will tie in perfectly with your proposal memory.

Kualoa Ranch, Ohu

Aside from being a prominent site for TV series and movies, Oahu's Kualoa Ranch is simply idyllic to propose to anyone. Find a breathtaking spot in its lush, rolling hills and serene beaches where you want to say yes; perhaps with the iconic Mokoli'i Island, better known as "Chinaman's Hat" in the background.

Conclusion

Whichever Hawaiian destination you choose as the Best Places to Get Married in Hawaii, believe me, you will get an unmatchable beauty and unforgettable ambiance to speak those words which your love of your life wants to hear. With a picture-perfect panorama and serene surroundings, Hawaii is a perfect setting for this once-in-lifetime time.

[vagabond-umlaut]

paper planes

brother to fushiguro tsumiki. (unofficially adopted) son to gojo satoru and you. nephew to a host of sorcerer uncles and aunts. (unwilling) assistant to the white-haired idiot. and, finally, ringbearer at your and gojo's still-undetermined wedding.

one teeny-tiny boy with one too many identity is what fushiguro megumi is - until he isn't. with lots and lots of sniffles and sniggers...

▸ gojo satoru x fem! reader; established relationship; post hidden inventory arc; manga spoilers; proposals; adoptions; alternate universe happy for everyone except toji lovers (sorry ＞︿＜)

▸ two fics in a week, wow. guess this is what is called a brainrot, huh? read this post by @/mintmatcha on tumblr and started writing this lol. but the plot of this story is miles, tons, eons away from that post, i swear. also, this fic is set in the same universe as blue hawaii but you need not read that first to read this. treat this as a stand-alone if you wanna! 😊 anyways, gif, divider and characters ain't mine. please don't plagiarize, translate or repost this. enjoy reading! ❤️

"yeah, yeah, i've got it all planned."

a discreet eye roll is all megumi gives as he goes through the menu card in his hands. a little distance away, he can spy tsumiki and you seated at a table, you tying his sister's long hair into braids while the latter laughs, probably at a joke you cracked.

a tiny smile rests on the little boy's face at the sight - which vanishes when he feels a large hand tousle his hair. you had spent hours and hours righting his hair into a proper shape; why must this idiot always mess everything up?

megumi looks up to find his guardian looking down at him with a shit-eating grin; though he can clearly see the nerves it's covering.

idiot.

phone wedged in between his ear and shoulder, gojo mutters a "one sec, suguru," and crouches down to the boy's eye level. the latter gives back an unimpressed stare.

"decided what you wanna have, 'gumi? remember mom and sis there asked you to choose for them today."

megumi feels an urge to say you two aren't his real parents - but stamps it down instantly. the both of you have been as good as real parents can be to their kids - or maybe even better. the boy has read books, watched movies and listened to his classmates talk about their families; the tiny urchin-head knows.

with a huff, he points at the double chicken fillet burger box - it's tsumiki's favourite and you too don't seem to dislike it. with a nod, gojo rises and placing his orders, returns to the call, beaming expression again directed at megumi.

"yeah, yeah, don't worry, man," he speaks into the phone, then drops his volume to a mere whisper, "'my little kiddo here is a born actor. he remembers the entire plan, step by step - don't you, buddy?"

megumi gives an imperceptible nod, itching back to get back to the table. he already would have - needless to say, the little munchkin prefers your company to gojo's, way way more - but their orders have not been delivered yet and the boy promised to be-

a little tap on the shoulder draws him from his musings and he cranes his neck up to find gojo frowning. "no, megumi didn't want to discuss the plan with me before leaving. no, he doesn't like you better- hey," the man looks at him, sunglasses sliding down the bridge of his nose revealing his indignant gaze, "you wanna discuss with uncle suguru one last time?"

an indifferent shrug is all the reply he gives.

while uncle suguru isn't the best uncle he has, he isn't the worst either. the others are- oh, wait. the others include uncle kento and uncle yu. they are literal angels compared to him. so... maybe... he is the worst... never mind. it's too late to back out anyways.

grumbling, gojo hands him the phone. "hello uncle," megumi greets just like you and tsumiki have taught him to. the man behind mutters something along the lines of ''traitor" or something; the boy pays him no mind.

"hey champ," the voice floats over the line, pleasant, kind and the way people talk to babbling babies. megumi's bored face turns irritated. "let's discuss the semantics one last time before boarding your flight, okay?"

"yeah, okay," megumi says, and casting a sideways glance at his bundle-of-nerves guardian, continues, "we're going to reykjavik," he looks at gojo, silently asking if he pronounced it correctly. the man sends him a thumbs-up with an encouraging grin.

the kid continues, "the plane will land at noon day after tomorrow, which is mom's birthday. first, we will go to the hotel. then, after resting, in the evening, we will head out in a car to watch the northern lights. and then-"

"-when it's the right moment, your dad will pop the question to your mom and you'll click the camera. got it, mr. future ringbearer?" finishing the rest of the sentence for him, the man at the other end asks, sounds of pans clacking and food sizzling in the background. nana-chan and mimi-chan must have woken up.

megumi nods. "yeah, got it, mr. future best man."

a chuckle comes in response to his comment. "you're a lot like your mom, y'know?"

"yeah," he mumbles, waving back to you and tsumiki, a little smile on his otherwise-impassive-but-always-adorable face, "i know."

"good," the man says, then pauses when a loud crash booms through the air and through the phone, a set of two wailing voices following it not soon after. megumi can quite literally picture the wincing frown his uncle is wearing as he says the next words in a hurry, "okay, 'gumi. talk to you later. bye, and best of luck! satoru's counting on his little assistant."

"yeah, thanks," he responds but is too late - the call is already cut by then.

giving the phone back to gojo, who's tapping his sneakers-clad feet on the floor, he looks back ahead, wondering when the hell heck their token number will be displayed and when they will get their food.

to the kid's great relief, it doesn't take a lot of time.

before long, the four of you are seated around the table, gojo stealing a sip from your drink and you stealing fries from him, all the while tsumiki giggles loudly at your antics. megumi smiles, before he hides it behind the burger which he takes a bite from.

the four of you really look like a family, don't you?

"hey, guys, can i have your attention for a sec, please?" your sudden question startles him from his mind. the boy turns to find you with your usual grin, albeit a smidgen of anxiety can be found in the way your fingers drum on the table.

megumi shares a look with tsumiki and gojo. they look as confused as he feels. "do i have your attention, people?" you ask again, manner growing a tad solemn unlike your usual, though the affection is still evident in your tone.

gojo and tsumiki nod immediately. you turn to him, gently smiling, "can i have your attention too, 'gumi? please?"

the boy nods his head instantly. "yeah, yeah. sure," he replies, scooting his chair closer to yours. you send him a relieved smile. "good, 'cause what i'm going to say next is very important. so, listen to me carefully, 'kay?"

all three of them are eager to nod in affirmation and anticipation.

scouring through your backpack, you retrieve a couple of pretty important-looking papers, and placing them back on the table, clasp your hands atop them. the kid spots gojo shoot you a worried look to which you respond with a reassuring smile.

the man's frown fades a little.

gaze now darting from one kid to another, you begin, "you two know, right, we love you very much?"

"yeah!" tsumiki exclaims, but is quick to fall silent when megumi shoots her a glare. you proceed, lips pressing into a thin line, "but we cannot adopt you two, in spite of how much all us want it to happen. we tried to, many, many times. but those higher-ups just won't let us do that."

a second passes - one wherein his young brain registers your words - before, lower lip wobbling, the boy casts his gaze down upon his light-up sneakers.

is this where you'll say he'll be sent to those zen'ins? away from his sister? away from you and gojo? away from all his uncles, aunts, nana-chan and mimi-chan?

megumi feels a hand card through his locks gently. looking up, he finds you with a soft smile. "but the thing is 'toru and i didn't let them defeat our purpose. we thought, you two can choose to be my clan's wards. not 'toru's, because of fucking - sorry, please forget i said that word - i meant, idiotic clan politics. so, what do you think?"

megumi turns to his sister, a pensive look plastered on her face the way it is on his. gojo adds, a tender smile in place of his usual stupid grin, "no pressure, kids. the both of us won't love you two any less and will be equally fine in case you choose not to."

"you guys can take how much ever time you need to think. there's no hurry," megumi hears you say, your warm hand rubbing circles on his back, as he turns back to his half-eaten burger.

a long moment passes.

passengers enter the cafeteria, they leave the cafeteria. the four of you remain seated, quietly munching on your food.

the boy finally removes his gaze from his now-empty tray and sends an inquiring, confused, hopeful look to his sister. tsumiki smiles back with a tiny nod. the little kid feels his heart burst with joy.

"we want to," the two of them answer in unison, and within a fraction of a second, megumi finds himself swept up in a warm hug alongside his sister, by you. "thank you for giving me, for giving us a chance," he hears you mutter quietly in a tear-choked voice. the boy simply pats your back the way you do to him. he soon feels another set of arms wrap around the three of you.

megumi thinks he has never felt happier or safer than in this moment.

a while passes with the four of you in this manner, enwrapped in an embrace, before you all finally pull away from each other.

the boy returns to his seat, rubbing his eyes. a minute passes in composing all of yourselves before you state, munching on another fry, "so, step one, including tsumiki and megumi into my legal family is done and successful. thank you, my loves."

tsumiki beams back at you; megumi returns a tiny smile. you grin at them - which, the kid watches, turns slyer as you switch your focus to your boyfriend.

the little boy stares at you, then stifles a snicker - he thinks he has a pretty good idea of what's gonna happen next. his gut instincts are rarely wrong, after all.

"but, 'toru..." you drawl, grin giving way to a smirk as gojo smiles back - perplexed but loving all the same. "for the step two, making you my legal family too, guess i need to wait to say 'yes' until the northern lights viewing two days later... don't i?"

a beat passes, then another, and another.

a loud gasp sounds from tsumiki. megumi turns to his dad - who's gaping wide-eyed at his mom now, the man's face whiter than his ugly hair - and smirks. just like the imp the goggles-wearing idiot always calls him at home, despite you repeatedly telling him not to.

gojo looks back at him, shock written on, engraved into his features.

"though i didn't really help you propose, i'm still the ringbearer, right?"

▸ masterlist

[melodymunson]

Free Guy- Walter Keys Mckey x fem reader blurb

Walter Keys Mckey x fem pregnant reader

ao3 link

mentions of pregnancy, nsfw themes/content ahead 18+ only.

Keys was the best husband and he was a gamer who created his own worlds with many games but his best game and most famous was known as Free Guy. In the game you could choose your own avatar and immerse yourself in the world. Keys was the dirty stripper cop in the game but in real life he was an average computer gamer geek but he was your geek. Free City was the world of Free Guy and blue shirt guy helped you and Keys to reveal your true feelings for one another.

Many games later and he was famous and rich but his proudest accomplishment was getting the girl at the end of the day- you. You were so enthralled by him and all of his gamer success but his personality you loved the most of all. You had many dates with Keys including gamer conventions, movie dates, dinner dates, vacations to Hawaii, the Bahamas, Jamaica, Fiji, New Zealand, and so many more places. When you were at a fair in New York he proposed at the top of the ferris wheel and of course you said yes.

The best part about being engaged was having the promise of forever with Keys. Soon you were married in Hawaii and had your honeymoon there as well flying in a helicopter to see the best view of the island. Now a married woman you and Keys decided to start a family together. You had so much love for him and after a year of trying you were pregnant.

Pregnant sex with Keys was nothing short of wonderful. He was attuned to your needs and wants. You didnt fuck each other but you made love and he let you be on top as he rubbed your belly. He loved to kiss your stomach and talk to the baby and to feel the baby kick. During bath time he would wash you with so much care and be behind you singing to the baby.

Keys did all of the chores and let you have bed rest. He would pamper you, massage you, and make you breakfast in bed. Keys even learned how to make your favorite desserts and bake for you. Every night with him was date night.

Eventually you got a cat a tabby and named her Precious. Soon after that you got a cute yorkshire terrier and named him Keys Jr. and both of your pets were adopted from an animal shelter. You would discuss with Keys what you wanted to one day name your future kids and came up with some great names. Keys and you agreed upon the name for a boy being Walt Jr. and for a girl Zelda after the game.

The days he would game on his computer you would join him and either just watch or be nearby doing one of your hobbies and spending time together. Sometimes you would play some music and game along with him or just playing your own game. He would love when you would just crawl into his lap and cock warm him and when you would stroke and suck his cock. What he loved most though was when you would ride him as he watched some game plays and game tutorials.

Sex with Keys was passionate and loving whether you were making love or having rough sex and dominating him. Sometimes he would dress up as his favorite game characters but would love when you dressed up as Princess Peach from Mario. When you introduced sex toys into the bedroom he loved to use some on you but also the couple toys which you could use together. Some days you would just stay in bed together giving each other countless orgasms and having your meals in bed together.

There was so much you did together and you loved every minute of it and he was your biggest supporter no matter what you were by each others sides. He loved to pat your baby bump and give you massages always so loving and tender with you. Pregnant sex was so good and he was perfect at making love to you. Keys was happy to meet your needs and he was such a pleaser.

You began to buy stuff for the baby and painted the baby room a pastel yellow. There was a wonderful baby shower and you had all of your friends there. The best part about being with Keys was his passion and personality not to mention his fierce protectiveness of you and the baby. What you thought was a baby was soon confirmed it was not one but two babies and you were overjoyed to know you were having twins with him.

Soon the babies arrived and he was there for you and with you every step of the way and in the hospital too. He was the most caring and genuine guy he was one a kind and no one else was like him. No other person had ever made you feel quite as special as he did and you were thankful for that fact. With Keys you felt like you could do anything and everything.

The babies were taken home and you were getting bed rest and soon the baby room was painted pink and blue to replace the yellow paint from before. The best part about being new parents was that you could have your own kids who could be model images of you and your husband. They were a handful and you were exhausted as new parents but the babies grandparents were happy to be taking care of them.

So many pictures were taken of the twins and you made a big scrapbook for them and for the family. All of your friends and family loved spending time with them and you would have family days and picnics in the park together once a month. The kids loved Keys Jr and Zelda and as they got older loved to play video games. Each day with the twins and your Keys were the best days and you cherished the love and family you had.

taglist

@corneliuswatkins @jadeylovesmarvelxo @ali-r3n @mrprettywhenhecries @hawkins-finest-babysitter

@keeryatmosphere @daisy-is-a-writer @munson-mjstan @espressomunson @seatnights

@thedjokeery @onegirlmanytales @ellharrington @kelseyaparker19 @keikoraven

@steveslittlesunflower @shichey97 @harringtonfan4 @decodedlvr @espressomunson

@lovelythoughtfulcupcake

[whimsicallywiddershins]

My best guesses on which cultures/countries Tamora Pierce bases her places and peoples off of. Obviously these aren't perfect copies, but more of where the idea may have come from.

Tortall is definitely Europe. Knights, castles, European names like John and George, ect. Easy.

Bazhir Desert: this one is trickier. Very likely based on Arab deserts or the Sahara and the peoples who live there. It's very ambiguous, just a basic desert culture, not a ton of world building here, but it's been a long time since I've read the Lioness books.

Galla and Scanra: I believe these are both based off Northern countries, with Scanra definitely based on Viking culture. Galla is less so, more like Lithuania or Poland, but neither is Russia. We will get to Russia in a bit.

Sairen and K'miri: Definitely Mongolia and steppe people and place.

Roof of the World: Tibet

Carthak: Egypt. Definitely based on ancient Egypt. Crocodiles, hyenas, lots of gold and darker skinned people. Old, powerful and center of learning.

Yamani Islands: Japan. I don't need to elaborate.

Copper Isles: This one I think is a bit of a mix of Indonesia and Hawaii.

Now, for Circle of Magic! (aka the fun and interesting culture and worldbuilding)

Emelan and the Pebbled Sea: Definitely Mediterranean, but I'm not sure which. My best guess is a sorta Turkey/Persian influence. It's not as obvious as Tortall. I believe the Chandlers and Tris are from a more Italian culture, probably from a country up North, but close enough to border Emelan and making travel easy. The whole merchant family thing made me think of Italy.

Traders: Likely based of Roma/Romani people. Trading caravans and largely persecuted. Not an exact copy, but similar.

Namorn: Russia! Definitely Russia. Large empire, very cold, far north and uses vaguely Russian terms. Powerful and not to be messed with.

Tharios: This one was tricky and fascinating. Probably ancient Greece, but I believe there were some other influences. The world building was massive as the plot directly involved the culture of the city. We also view the city from the scholarly but judgemental eyes of Tris.

Chammur: My best guess is India. Briar is more concerned with gangs and Evy so he doesn't really let us see the city as well. But India seems like a fair bet.

Yanjing: China. No needed discussion here lol.

Gyongxe: I'm guessing Tibet, again. The Roof of the World was way too quick, so Im glad Tamora re-visited this culture in a better way. Who knows, the Shang Dragon was very Chinese inspired, maybe Alanna did travel that far and missed Briar, Rosethorn and Evy by a few years! I'm still firm in the belief that all the books are in the same world.

If you agree or disagree with my picks, feel free to comment and propose your own theories! Or if I missed a country.

[julessworldd]

Valentine’s Day with GOT/HOTD babes modern

A/N: A quick idea for you guys and my present for saying thank you for the support of my writing. It’s been amazing writing for a new fandom and getting new mots y’all are the best! So happy Valentine’s Day from me :) I love you guys 💓 @daenerysapologist @valeskafics

Warnings: grammar/spelling errors, implied smut, marriage proposals, romantic shit

Robb: Okay man is a simp all year round, but Valentine’s Day and your birthday he goes all out each year. Breakfast in bed with your favorite breakfast foods and drinks. Dinner at the restaurant you had your first date at. He’s a sentimental man, like his daddy. Buys you an outfit and takes you out on the town, a walk after dinner. Then takes you back home and you have a nice night in the backyard under blankets looking at the stars. You definitely know how much you are loved with Robb

Theon: A romantic but loves an excuse to buy you stuff without you telling him he’s wasting his money. Wakes you up by kissing you all over and whispering sweet words of love in your ear. Definitely messes with you the whole day, making out in bed, on the counter, where ever he can get you. Gets you a pretty necklace, a nice outfit, a pink lingerie set from Victoria’s Secret (reference to bels cam girl series 💀💖) a good ole fashioned wine and dine with Theon

Jon: Loves Valentine’s Day he gets to show you how much he loves you on that day and your birthday. Jon makes you breakfast in bed, makes the bed, draws you a bath with nice soaps, bath bombs, roses in the water, candles around the tube. Still gets nervous about asking you if he can join the tub. Of course you let him, he lets you lay your back on his chest. Washes your hair and body while kissing you and laughing enjoying the time with you. Would be a guy to propose on that day. I don’t think he would make it a restaurant proposal, more of a scenic view type. Where you two go on walks and relax in nature, he had Sansa and Arya make it all cute with candles, fair lights and pictures.

Jaime: Jaime loves spoiling you no matter what day it is, but is like Robb two days out of the year he goes all out. Wakes you up being under the covers messing with you. Afterwards, he carries you to the kitchen for a breakfast. Tells you to get ready because he’s taking you out for the whole day. Takes you to your favorite places, a little shopping, a cute lunch date at your favorite restaurant, flowers. Then dinner he takes you to a fancy restaurant, gifts you a necklace that has his name. Later on you notice the wait staff is watching you guys. Soon as you ask him what’s going on, you seen him on one knee and a velvet box in hand. He takes you to the place he first said he loved you and tells you how much you mean to him and how he still loves you.

Aegon: Aegon is definitely someone that shows his money off even to you. You love him for him not his family’s money, but that’s his love language. A huge shopping spree, a fancy lunch and dinner, sends you money to get your nails done but request you to get something he wants for the special day.

Aemond: A secret hopeless romantic for his partner all year but valentines is one day he shows it off. Him and Jaime would do the same thing, take you shopping, a nice lunch just the whole day is about you and just you. Aemond would hand write you a poem and would mean every word. Definitely would think about proposing to you that night but wants it to be the perfect moment.

Cregan: My boy is a simp like Robb! Plans this day out after your birthday so it’s a ways a bit from that he plans it out big. Takes you somewhere nice and warm like Hawaii, Costa Rica, Bahamas the week before. A romantic getaway for you two, would definitely propose on the beach at sunset. A nice dinner that’s outside a private beach. tells you how much he loves you and wants to be with you forever. Cregan and Gomez Addams give the same vibes for their partners. Starks are simps in my book

[theawkwardanglophile]

Similarities between Tim/Lucy (The Rookie) and Luke/Lorelai (Gilmore Girls)

I've been meaning to do this for a while, especially after I recently did a Gilmore Girls rewatch and found that two of my fave couples of all time have quite a few things in common.

Let's start with the guys and girls, then the similarities between the couples.

Tim & Luke

Gruff exterior with a heart of gold

Kind of a loner

Parents have passed away

Will do anything to make his girl happy

Easily jealous

But also doesn't think any other guy good enough for Lucy or Lorelai (pre-relationship)

A show-you kind of guy

Both have a younger sister

Both date a Rachel

Both date someone annoying (Nicole & Ashley) (sorry, I HAD to. They both drive me nuts.)

Very protective of those he loves

Both secretly like "nerdy" stuff (Luke-Star Trek, Tim-Dr. Who)

Lucy & Lorelai

Sunshine chatterbox

Only child

Difficult relationship with parents

Harsh parental expectations, but she forges her own path anyway

Can get their guy to do anything

Explains pop culture references to the guys

Both date a Chris

Loves messing with her guy (Lucy-pranks, Lorelai-getting Luke ranting)

Loves making things special for her people (Lucy-gift baskets, sending food, Lorelai-special events, movie nights, etc.)

Hasn't really been fully in love before

Both couples

Perfect example of Grumpy x Sunshine

Flirty banter

Everyone else thinks there's something going on

They become best friends

First dance in S4, shortly before first kiss episode

First kiss in 4x22

"Look at Bradford's moves"/"Luke can waltz"

Lucy & Lorelai both call Tim & Luke Sleeping Beauty

Both couples have a goat (Luke/Lorelai-Gilbert on the chuppah, Tim/Lucy-Gerald)

Lorelai tells Luke a cruise a good place to propose/ Lucy says Hawaii is where you propose

Pre-relationship, Lucy stayed over at Tim's/Lorelai stayed over at Luke's

If anyone has something else to add to the list, please let me know! I'd love to hear it!

[incorrect-jojolands-quotes]

Chapter 14 Yap Session: 48 AQUIFERS! You didn't want to leave him a half-measure, huh?

Other Yaps (To Be Updated as I Go): 14, 15, 16, 17, 18

Chapter 14 was very heavy in terms of historical and cultural context. Here are the things I've found so far:

The Lava Rock's Powers Are Based on Hawaiian Culture and Belief

Meryl Mei's words confirmed that the lava rock relies on human emotion and societal beliefs to become attracted to items.

While there are variations of how the Hawaiian Islands came to be, it all comes down to Pele. One retelling mentioned how Pele left volcanic craters on the islands, which would spew rock and ash that would land and create the mountains and fertile lands we know of today. However, volcanic eruptions and raining volcanic matter is nothing safe to be around, especially because it represents Pele herself being angry. So, Native Hawaiians would provide Ho'okupu to Pele as a means to appease her and therefore stop an eruption from escalating further. These are gifts considered to be of high value and given genuinely. Until the end of the 19th century, these gifts ranged from foods to literal diamonds.

A case in 1801 occurred where Kamehameha I was asked to provide offerings to Pele to stop Mt. Huālailai's eruptions. He gave various gifts but only when he gave up his hair did the lava stop flowing; note that hair cutting is only done during mourning or defeat. Mt. Huālailai has since then stopped erupting.

Nowadays, there's some conflicting info on what is appropriate and not appropriate. Most say acceptable gifts can be prayers, acts of service to Pele (i.e. volunteering, donations), or generally practicing gratitude. There are those who will still give gifts like traditional food or hula. Regardless, they are given because they are believed to be valuable and therefore necessary to give to Pele.

Howler's Lands Being Mostly Water Is More Trouble Than You Think

The purpose of infrastructure is to ensure society's needs are met. This includes maintaining and sustaining society's source of water; after all, fresh water is a very valuable resource in all human societies since the beginning of time. Meryl Mei notes how most of Howler's deeds involve water resources.

In Hawaii, fresh water come from permeable rocks called aquifers. There are many types of aquifers, but experts say the best are made from basaltic and volcanic rock; the only places that have such aquifers in the US are the Pacific Northwest and Hawaii. Despite being surrounded by water, Hawaii relies on aquifers for freshwater and the same aquifers rely on rain water to be replenished. Unfortunately, aquifers are not as accessible and there has historically been cases of aquifer water being mismanaged or contaminated. You might have recognized the controversy regarding the Wai Kai pool.

Not only that, climate change also affects this issue. Since 2008, Hawaii has been suffering through a drought, causing it dry season to last a lot longer than its rain season. Aquifers rely on rainwater to be replenished, so the lack of rain water means they are not being refilled to continue meeting demands. Rising sea levels also mean less land to live on as well as sea water contaminating the aquifers. There are efforts proposed to stop and prevent this, but it doesn't help that many aquifers sit on top of salt water. Most aren't contaminated yet because there is a good amount of things between the two to separate them, but that's only if that thing has not been tampered with or by, say, construction or natural disaster.

An infrastructure company holding power over the most valuable resource of Hawaii? Surely, that allows them to have power over lots of things in society as well.

The Number 48 Holds a Lot of Symbolism and Significance

In literature, there's a famous self-help book called The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene. This book follows the belief that life is a never-ending game of power and presents 48 pieces of advice on how to pursue one's goals. This book became popular among musicians, politicians, and other celebrities, especially when they are in some sort of controversy at the time they reference or are seen with the book, and the book has been criticized for glorifying brutal and inhuman approaches as a means of success. Some might even say whoever tries to achieve their tasks without considering morals or the emotions of others as... psychopathic...

In history, the year 1848 marks the second most important event in Hawaiian history called "The Great Māhele". Prior to this, land ownership was a more feudal system, and laws were suddenly put in place to transition to the allodial system of land ownership. This event would go on to set more laws regarding land ownership and things like The Hawaii State Land Registry to maintain it. On paper, it made land ownership accessible, as one can simply buy land to call it their own, rather than jump through hops caused by things like status. In practice, however, it made it very easy for foreign powers and businesses to buy land in Hawaii and oftentimes prevent Native Hawaiians from doing so; keep in mind that this approach to land ownership is also very unknown to Native Hawaiians, so they themselves have no idea how to approach this. This led to more foreign influences into Hawaii that became a factor in its annexation (the most important event) later on and contributed to the socioeconomic struggles still faced today by Native Hawaiians.

Notably, the year 1948 was when President Truman proposed turning Hawaii into a state. This was 55 years after Hawaii was overthrown and annexed as well.

In Chinese numerology, 48 is an auspicious number. Any 3-digit number ending in 48 (i.e. 748) is lucky because it sounds like you're saying "prosperity in X lifetimes" in Mandarin (so 748 is "prosperity in 7 lifetimes/ 七世發"). As a result, 48 became a number associated with businesses. The number 8 is particularly lucky in Asian cultures while also having ties with financial success in other cultures. 48 is also considered be auspicious because it combines the good qualities of 4s and 8s (diligence and ambition), so many consider it a manifestation number (working hard will bring achievements).

As an added bonus, 9 is considered lucky in various Asian cultures because it sounds like the word for "everlasting". It is also associated with dragons in China, so lots of government things and royalty are based on number 9.

See you in the next chapter to see what else I can yap about.

[koifishart]

I want to be Your Koi Fish - Nine Tails

Warning: +18 content, criminal underworld, intercourse, strong language - and so on

Fanfiction based on: "Baki" by Itagaki Keisuke

>16<

Once again, he regretfully ended a pleasant outing with his wife. It will be warm and fond memories, as well as the "honeymoon" in Hawaii. They spent the last evening walking around the city, which was surprisingly empty compared to the streets of downtown Tokyo. the same as the noise of Shinjuku he was used to. His wife's uncomfortable property still disturbed that almost perfect peace, he could see heads turning towards her again, could even hear the whistling from a distance, which she definitely dismissed with an eloquent lack of interest. Taught by experience, he waited for something unexpected to appear. Eventually, they stood in the middle of the alley in an empty park at this time of day, looking at the person he... happened to be most expecting. Dressed in a dark tracksuit, definitely not restricting movement, with a fierce expression on a young face, suggesting age. Not like Kaoru, looking 10 years older than he really was. Hanabi only sighed heavily, folding arms over chest, waiting for the unfolding of events, looking disapprovingly at the man who was her friend years ago.

- Since Hana-chan is so blind, let's deal with each other. - he grunted without greeting. - I'm gonna get her off you!

- Holy fuck ... - she moaned softly. - Here we go again ...

He wondered for a moment what she meant, to finally remember her first meeting with Orochi. It was very similar: he also proposed a duel for a girl. Hanayama promised himself to fight for her always and with anyone who tries to disturb their order and peace. Nevertheless, nothing by force.

- I see no reason. - he replied finally, looking at the woman. - My wife doesn't seem to be in the slightest interested in you.

- You washed her brain, you bastard! - Junji growled nervously. - She is intoxicated with your lies, she should live here, close to nature, where she belongs!

- Hanabi can choose her place herself. And, take my word for it, she does. - Hanayama said philosophically, handing her his jacket and unbuttoning shirt. - But if you want to ...

It was enough to expose his torso, revealing two larger scars on his enormous breasts. The opponent apparently lost something and more. So, however, he didn't want to fight. He was counting on scaring him by threatening to take HIS woman away. Nothing could be further from the truth, Hanayama wasn't going to bow.

- Will you let that happen?! - Junji snapped at Hanabi accusingly. - Shouldn't you be insisting on stopping it all now?

- Did you fall on your head, Jun?! After all, I told you clearly that if you don't back off, I will put you down myself! - she replied, tucking a dark strand behind her ear with rattling earrings. - But since my husband prefers to take care of you, I won't take it away from him. I have warned you enough.

Hanayama smiled at her. He really couldn't have chosen better. And yes, Kizaki was right: father and mother would be proud of such a daughter-in-law. She looked at him seriously, holding out a tiny hand.

- Give your glasses back, you'll break it again. - She laughed lightly as picked up the item.

She watched him undo the buttons, displaying the fullness of muscles, a mass of scars, and a large tattoo on his back. He slipped the shirt over his forearm, expecting his opponent's reaction. Jun seemed to be less and less determined.

- Go ahead, choose a weapon, whatever. Use it however you like, and when you are done, let me know. - he replied calmly. - Even when I'm asleep, I'm sick or in bed with a woman ... nevermind. Strike as best you can and I won't block your blow.

Junji stood dumbfounded, staring at the sea of scars all over Hanayama's torso as if the scars on his face weren't enough. He was probably one of those doubters who thought he made them himself to scare people. Kaoru had encountered such doubts, more than once, even at school. He was often mistaken for similar posers.

- I thought so ... - he finally muttered, tossing shirt over shoulders and buttoning it up.

He took glasses and a jacket from his wife, then grabbed her in half, pulling to him so that they could go further together. Fortunately, they were already packed, it was enough to get on the plane in the morning and go home. He heard Hanabi speak softly as they passed "little Jun":

- I told you he cares.

He was very skeptical about this sparring, and Hanabi looked like she was going to jump out of skin for joy. Dressed in a short-sleeved blouse and shorts below her breasts, she didn't seem dangerous, but he knew she was. But Hanayama still wasn't sure the plan would end up in a hospital for her. Even forced her to wrap hands in boxing bandages. It's the only precaution she agreed to, and sighed heavily, shaking her nose anyway. It was supposed to be a sparring, so also this time, exceptionally, instead of a suit, he agreed to wear a tracksuit. The marriage with Hanabi was neither ordinary nor traditional, but it did teach tactical concessions. If she agreed to something, he too had to bend, as she put it, "for the balance of the universe." In fact, even that suited him, he might find this "balance of the universe" a good way to live in a relationship. He looked at her again. She has changed, again. She looked like a thin blade of grass when she returned after eight months of "absence", and he wasn't sure he had seen her bones. He must have counted ribs with ease, running fingers along her sides, causing tickles. This time Hanabi was definitely rounder, more stable and stronger. The subtle contours of the muscles beneath the skin were back, cute, round biceps and steel buttocks he loved. They stood facing each other, the woman fiercely snapped knuckles wrapped tightly in cotton.

- Hana, think it over again ... - he muttered under his breath, arousing a severe crunch in the massive neck and taking off glasses.

- I remind you that you had the dubious pleasure of meeting my great-grandfather, from whom I don't differ much. - she grunted, positioning herself.

The right leg leading, forearms and gently curled fists to protect the head. A typical muay thai stance. She had intended to deceive him from the very beginning. He wasn't naive enough to believe that Shiro Kitsune wouldn't be using all her skills. Before he looked back, she was beside him, dodging both huge hands surprisingly efficiently, wrapping herself around him, cutting his legs so that he fell flat. In a few seconds, she pulled him downstairs without any problem, he didn't even know how. Hana didn't use force, had some way. She was using the potential of her muscles only when Kaoru resisted her, trying to slip himself out of the trap. He felt the moment when she shifted her elbow slightly and lost balance. Getting up, he threw her over his back like a sandbag, then tried to throw off, but she was faster, had a trick again. His hands loosened grip, she freed her legs to jump away from him gracefully backwards. He came to her with a series of blows, and she pushed them away with smooth movements that looked like falling flower petals, moving in a circle. Baguazhang, a style her grandfather Shigeru taught her. Hanayama started to like this fight. He held back a bit, still had the difference in size, strength and gender on the back of his head, but that didn't change the fact that she was a very pleasant opponent. Much more agile and flexible than her predecessors, also extremely stubborn and problematic. He saw that she was looking for a weak spot that would put him down once and for all. He wondered if it was a little ... credit to him. After all, that was exactly what his form of invincible fist was based on - one blow would be enough. Accurate, strong, determined, ready to knock the enemy to the dust. She saw how he treated, for example, Shachihoko, who by the way himself admitted that this one time was enough. She broke through his hands to grab his head and shove a hard knee into his nose. Not hard enough to break it, she did it with astonishing sensitivity. It was this minor mistake he could take advantage of. He wasn't foggy, he could prepare. As soon as she put her tiny feet on the mat, he punched her flat stomach. Strange feeling as if hitting concrete. She flew like a missile towards the far wall, where stopped with a thud. He silently thanked that he had the room lined with something that was supposed to resemble a thick mattress. She slumped into a sitting position, trying to catch her breath.

- Are you alive? - he asked anxiously.

- Gosh, like a truck hit ... - she croaked, spitting a little blood. - Yeah, I'm fine.

[stickers-on-a-laptop]

if you're still doing those fics... 512, mako and kotoha hanging out after the events of shinkenger?

"I know I'm not your Lord anymore, and never was, but Kotoha, may I ask you for a favor?"

"What is it, Takeru-san?"

"Please do your best to make sure Mako cooks food the rest of us can eat, Ryuunosuke has already been kicked out, Genta can't even try, and Chiaki won't step foot in the kitchen if Mako is in there. So, please."

Kotaha giggled. "Sure, I can help Mako-chan!"

Takeru gave a giant sigh of relief, placing a hand on her shoulder. "We're counting on you!"

---

"Mako-chan, what are you making?" Kotoha asked as she came into the kitchen, grabbing an apron and putting it on, ignoring the smoke coming out of a nearby pan.

"Oh, my aunt gave me some recipes! I figured I could make a few of them for our reunion dinner!"

"Your aunt?"

"She owns a restaurant, I should take you guys some time."

"That'd be nice!" Kotoha agreed. "May I see the recipe you're working on?"

Mako passed the papers over, which had sauce-covered fingerprints on it, and one had a corner burned off, like Mako had accidentally let it get too close to the flame.

"Pho, curry, stir-fry, ench…enchiladas, hamburgers…this is very international, Mako-chan!"

"My aunt's restaurant goes through different themes, I thought I'd do curry and stir-fry though. Keep it more simple."

"Do they have these types of food in Hawaii, Mako-chan?" Kotoha asked as she read over the recipe for the curry. Slightly different than how she made it, but would clearly be tasty.

"Hmm? Oh, yes, but my parents prefer to do the cooking themselves, usually. Mother has the kitchen set up so she can work in her wheelchair, and I'm actually not allowed in there," Mako sighed. "But enough about me, how are you?"

"Oh, I met a Metal Hero helper that looked like me recently, it was very fun helping her! Chiaki said it had to have been better than telling people they lost their powers when I told him about it, though."

Mako grimaced at the reminder they had lost their powers for a bit. "How are you two? He hasn't proposed yet, has he?"

"Mako-chan! We're a little too young for that!" Kotoha said with a blush. "Besides, neither of us have steady jobs quite yet, although my flute lessons are doing well."

"That's good, at least. I'm a little jealous, I must admit." Mako sliced through an onion with a little too much force.

"There's no one in Hawaii?"

Mako considered the question. "Well…there is this really nice neighbor. We've been getting closer, but I'm not sure I want to stay in Hawaii…"

"Is he nice?"

Mako busied herself stirring a pot that was going to require a strong scrubbing to get what used to be sauce out of it.

"Mako-chan?"

"She. She is very nice, a little like you actually."

"Oh! I'd love to meet her someday, then!"

Mako smiled, just a little.

"She does want to meet all of you."

"I'm sure the rest want to meet her too!"

---

"Kotoha…that was not edible…"

"Sorry!"

[peonierose]

Home is where the heart is

Book: Open Heart x Red Carpet Diaries Crossover

Pairing: Bryce Lahela (M!MC) x Luna Auclair (F!OC)

Rating: Fluff

Words: 3,000+

Summary: It’s Christmas time. Luna and Bryce get visited by Ethan & Hayley. But it looks like Luna gets to fangirl a little first.

A/N: I’m participating in the @choicesficwriterscreations Holiday Event as well as @choicesdecember2022 Day 7 - Middle of the Night

It’s that beautiful time of the year. Christmas. Though it is a very non-white Christmas in Hawaii. We still enjoy having a great dinner with family and friends. Sharing laughs and great stories. Exchanging gifts.

Our family loves to spend time at the beach. Going surfing, swimming, and having a great time with the family.

These are things that we want to do with our kids when they arrive in March next year.

When I think back to last year? So many things have changed.

Bryce and I were living with Keiki in Boston. I was working at that awful art gallery, which I’m glad I quit. I found something new and something better.

I proposed to Bryce. Which he still doesn’t shut up about. He says ”She put a ring on it“ I laugh silently at that.

B and I moved to Honolulu. We came back to where we both feel at home and alive. It’s our happy place, because home is where the heart is.

We’re carving our own path. Both B and I. While he works at the Kuakini Medical Center I accepted a job offer to teach art at the University of Hawaii.

Months later Bryce and I got our own little miracle when we found out we were expecting twins. Two girls. Can you believe that? It’s still insane to me and I have to grin at that.

We’re getting married, though we’re postponing it for the time being. We’ve both got so many things going on we just don’t want to get married in a hurry and without our close family and friends on our special day.

We also made some new friends. Two wonderful and amazing women. Meilani and Aubrey. Who are a great addition to our friend group.

”Luna?“

I get thrown out of my straying thoughts when I hear a deep male voice.

I sigh as I have to look up and up.

”So what’s on your shopping list? Did we get all the ingredients for the cookies, pies…and tartelettes? I don’t even know what that is, to be honest,“ Ethan says and moves the shopping cart further down the aisle. Past the bread and cereal. I have to grab some lucky charms for Bryce.

Ethan and Hayley are visiting us for a couple of days, before they fly back to Boston. Let’s not forget Jenner. Cutest dog in the world.

So I took Ethan grocery shopping. Best idea ever.

Damn, I hate the fact that Ethan is so tall. I basically have to run to catch up with him.

”Can you slow down? I’m way shorter than you and I’m also 6 months pregnant.“ I say and Ethan slows down blushing furiously.

”How’s the pregnancy going? Any weird food cravings that drive Bryce up the wall?“ he jokes and laughs.

”Does Bryce count as a food craving?“ I ask.

I am trying to act serious but I have to laugh at Ethan’s expression. He looks as if he bit into a lemon.

”I shouldn’t have asked,“ he mumbles.

I want to pat his shoulder but reach his midriff instead.

I grin.

”Don’t get your panties in a twist my little orange blossom.”

He sighs but endures my teasing.

”I know you love me too much to say anything about these cute little nicknames that I use. Between you and me I know I’m your favorite person next to Hayley.“

He just gives me a look and I grin.

”No weird food cravings. If you don’t count peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with banana slices inside as a food craving. Bryce makes a really good one. His pj and jelly sandwiches are the best.“

”Yeah because he can’t screw that up.“

Ethan laughs.

I pinch his arm and he rubs it afterwards.

”Don’t be mean. You don’t have to play the role of the grinch. It’s too early for that.“

I say and ask him to hand me the shopping list. To see what else we need.

We’re all going to make some delicacies this Christmas.

All of the Auclair family. Meaning me, my cousins Soraya, Evie, and Sky. My gran, my grandpa, mom and dad, my aunt Joe and my uncle Joseph.

Everyone is making a Hawaiian specialty. Can’t wait for that food fest.

Keiki and Bryce are going to help too. Although Bryce is just going to steal cookies and act as if the dog ate them. Nice try Lahela.

Soraya and her girlfriend Meilani, who is my OB/ Gyn and works together with Bryce and his other colleague Aubrey will join us too.

Maxi my best friend and her lover? Date buddy? Adam. I honestly don’t know the status of their relationship, but I’d say it’s somewhere between figuring things out and it’s complicated.

Maxi's mom Amara is going to be there too.

As for Maxi‘s brother Caelum? I don’t think he’s going to join us. Since he and Maxi have to meet again and start to patch things up. I just don’t think they are at that level yet. Rebuilding a relationship takes time. It doesn’t happen overnight.

But hey Christmas miracles happen all the time. I‘d wish they would be as close as they were before Maxi's dad died in a car accident.

Let’s not forget my brother and sister whom mom and dad recently adopted. It’s their first Christmas with all of us. It’s going to be magical.

A static voice sounds from the speakers above.

”Attention all customers. Don’t forget today is 50% off on all products from the produce and dairy aisles.“

Ethan and I move further into the condiments aisle.

”I need some cinnamon. For the snickerdoodles.“

I say and when I turn around I can see Ethan looks like a kid on Christmas morning. I smile and love the fact that he feels open enough to share his feelings. Whether he voices them out loud or just shows them.

We reach the produce aisle. Ever since I got pregnant with the twins I‘ve started to love fresh fruit and vegetables more and more.

I grab some mangos and look up when I almost drop said mangos.

I sigh and gently put the mangos into the shopping cart.

”Oh my god. Do you know who that is?“ I grab Ethan’s shirt.

Ethan looks around and tries to figure out who I could mean.

”Who?“

I take his chin and move it in the direction I meant.

”It’s Matt Rodriguez. Oh my god, I need to get an autograph. How do I look?“

Ethan eyes me as if I don’t have all cookies left in the jar.

”You look beautiful as always, but what about our ingredients for the cookies?“ he asks, looking down into our shopping cart.

”Who cares about cookies when you have Matt Rodriguez standing at the produce aisle.“

I say getting super excited.

”Who is Matt Rodriguez?“ Ethan asks.

”Have you been living under a rock E?“ I shake my head in disbelief.

”Does Bryce know you have a crush?“ he chuckles.

”Pfft. Please his guilty pleasure is Matt’s movie, Cactus Rose. We watch it together all the time.“

Ethan whistles.

”I’m seeing Bryce in a whole new light.“

I grin and can’t believe my luck. To meet an actor I admire and let’s be honest he’s hot. He’s got nothing on Bryce of course, but still, he seems nice and he’s a damn good actor.

I look up at the ceiling.

”Santa, if you're out there, thank you for making my wish come true. I promise I’ll make Bryce’s wish come true too if I can get Britney Spears to sign an autograph.“

Ethan snorts.

”Santa doesn’t exist.“

I gasp and look at Ethan as if I swallowed something rotten.

”How dare you, sir! I don’t even recognize you, Ethan Jonah Ramsey! I’d never think that these are the words that would come out of my male best friend's mouth.“

Ethan shrugs his shoulders.

”Well I was just honest. So how about that autograph?“ he asks and points to Matt who is moving his shopping cart away. I’ve got to go there and ask him for an autograph and maybe a selfie.

”Nice segue. Don’t think this conversation is over. But autograph first, cookie ingredients later.“

I breathe out and take all my courage to go over there and ask Matt for an autograph.

”Excuse me?“ I ask and Matt turns around flashing his megawatt smile. I swear I sighed a little.

”Yeah?“ he asks still smiling.

”I don’t want to be rude but my fiancé and I are big fans of yours would you maybe sign my…“ I ask and realize I don’t have anything for him to sign.

He smiles and gets out a card with the logo of his latest movie Cactus Rose to sign for me.

”Could you make it for Bryce and Luna? Otherwise, he’s never going to believe me I met you,“ I smile and Matt grins.

”Officially I’m on vacation with my wife who’s here somewhere. Here I’ll sign these for you Luna.“

I smile and just nod. Not able to form words.

”I’m sorry I’m usually not that starstruck. I think I’d be even more starstruck if I met Frida Kalo or Pablo Picasso.“

When Matt looks at me with a confused look on his face.

”I’m an artist and work as an art professor at the University of Hawaii.“

Matt’s eyes widen.

”No way! Really? You know it’s funny my wife and I are looking for an artist. We wanted to commission a piece for our new home here in Honolulu. Would you be interested in making an art piece for us? I wouldn’t want you to overwork yourself,“ he says and points to my stomach.

”Oh don’t worry I’d tell you if it was too much. But you know what? You can always check out my art pieces for art on the fence. It’s a non-profit group of local artists who present their work. You can take a look and even buy some art pieces. But if you’re looking for something specific I’m sure we can work something out.“

Matt grins and hugs me.

I must’ve squeaked like a mouse.

”Damn I’m sorry I didn’t mean to hug you too hard. Are you alright?“

He asks concern lacing his voice.

”I was just hugged by Matt Rodriguez. Santa sure was good this year.“

He smiles and we exchange numbers. He promises to reach out so we can meet and discuss the art he’d like to commission.

He walks away but then he comes back.

”Can I take a picture with you? I think you’re one of the prettiest pregnant women I’ve seen, including my wife, so I’d really love it if we took a picture together.“

Matt asks, smiling.

Again I just nod.

We take a pic and he waves goodbye. I must’ve looked like an idiot.

I stand there holding my phone and the autographs and just smile.

As I walk towards the shopping cart where Ethan is waiting for me, a grin on his face, I feel as if I’m floating on fluffy clouds.

”Happy?“ Ethan asks.

I nod.

”Very.“

He shakes his head and grins.

I can’t stop smiling all the way to the cash register. We pay for all the ingredients and go to the parking garage. Hopefully, we got everything, and in my fangirling haze, we didn’t forget any ingredients. If not I’ll just send Keiki or Bryce to the store.

When we reach home I almost rip the door open in my haste to get inside.

Jenner greets me, his tail wagging.

I pat him, walk further into the house and he looks with sad eyes at me.

”Sorry buddy I have to share some news afterward you can have as much Luna time as you want.“

He licks my hand I and I smile at him.

I look around for Bryce as Ethan gets the ingredients inside. He said he won’t let me carry the groceries.

My mom smiles at me and Hayley greets Ethan with a kiss.

”Bryce is outside with Keiki.“

Mom says and I nod. Jenner walks over to Ethan. Who showers him with love.

I spot Bryce and walk towards him and almost knock him over in his seat.

He laughs and steadies me so we both won’t fall over.

”Looks like someone missed me.“

”You’re a sight for sore eyes.“ I hug him, because despite my fangirling moment? He’s my forever love.

I inhale his scent of fresh laundry, the ocean, and Bryce.

He kisses my temple and I relax in his arms.

We hear footsteps and see Ethan walking outside, as he joins us in the garden. He hands me a glass of hibiscus lemonade. My gran made it fresh this morning and brought it over.

”Guys you won’t believe who I met.“

Bryce and Keiki share a look and shake their heads.

”Who?“ Bryce asks.

”Matt Rodriguez. At the produce aisle.“

”Come on there’s no way you met Matt. Pics or it didn’t happen.“

Bryce says and looks at me as if he doesn’t know if I’m making it up or not.

I grin and can’t wait for him to eat his words.

”Oh I got pics alright babe. I got a job for a commission for Matt freaking Rodriguez. He gave me his number and wants me to commission an art piece for him and his wife.“

Bryce and Keiki speak at the same time.

”What?“

They both scoot closer as I show them the picture of me and Matt. Both of us smile at the camera.

Ethan grins as Hayley walks out too.

”What are they all so excited about?“ she asks.

Ethan shakes his head.

”Luna met some guy called Matt Rodriguez. Don’t know who that is. So now everyone is fangirling over him. Even Bryce.“

Hayley squeals and joins the fangirling fest too. Ethan just shakes his head.

They all enjoy some time in the sun until they move back inside to prepare the sweet delicacies.

Three hours later….

”I know you love the British bake-off, but it looks as if you’re not very good at making pastries or sweets in general, am I right?“

”I don’t watch the British bake-off.“ Ethan replies but I just can’t take him seriously when he wears an apron with the face of the grinch. He lost a bet against Hayley and now has to wear it.

I laugh and Hayley joins me but tries to turn it into a cough when Ethan turns around to look at her.

”Even though he watched many episodes he can’t make a pie. Or cookies. Let’s not even talk about pancakes.“

Hayley laughs and steals a piece of apple that’s lying in a bowl for the pie filling.

”You can’t make pancakes? Oh, don’t feel bad pumpkin spice. Bryce can’t make them either.“

I say and roll out the dough for the pie crust.

”Hey come on.“

Bryce says flustered.

”You know it’s true B.“

I say and take the pie crust and put it into the tart mold. So I can pour the filling in and make a beautiful apple pie.

”You’re probably right.“ Bryce sighs.

Ethan grins.

”You folded so quickly.“

He says to Bryce.

Bryce just winks at him.

”Although I’d say Bryce is a little better at pancakes than you are Ethan.“

Bryce kisses me on my temple.

”Beat that Ramsey. Lunes knows her stuff.“

Ethan just stares at us until he smiles.

”I just can’t be mad at Luna.“

Ethan admits.

Hayley grins.

”He’s having a hard time saying no to you.“

Hayley grins and Ethan just sighs but nods.

”He’s not the only one. I meant myself if it wasn’t clear.“ Bryce grins and hugs me from behind.

Everyone laughs and has a great time.

I grin and we continue making pies. Cookies. Anything sweet.

Bryce steals cookies again and tries to blame Jenner.

Shaking my head at him, because we all know he ate most of the cookies.

4 a.m.

I walk down because I didn’t feel Luna next to me in bed.

When I walk down the steps I see a blue light coming from the tv.

Luna snuggled on the couch and enjoying some apple pie.

”So that’s where you disappeared to.“

I say and Luna almost jumps off the couch. Her apple pie flies out of her hand, but I catch it before it can land on the floor and create a mess.

”Oh my god you scared the hell out of me. Never do that again. It was just getting interesting.“

She glares at me.

”You look way too cute for me to be mad at you.“

I notice that Luna isn’t alone.

”Hey buddy. Why is Jenner on the couch? Shouldn’t he be with Ethan and Hayley?“

I ask and Jenner scoots closer to my hand so that he can get some pats. I grin and pat him behind his ears.

”He got kicked out.“

She replies and sits down again.

”Oh? Oh! Got it.“

We both grin as I join her and she leans into me. Jenner doesn’t want to feel left out so he joins us too.

Sprawled over our legs.

”I hope he’s potty trained.“

I smack him on his arm.

”Bryce! Poor Jenner is potty trained. If you’re going to watch tv with us, there are no mean comments allowed.“

”Am I forgiven?“ I ask and hand her apple pie back to her. She sighs.

”Sure.“ She says and I grin at her.

”So what are guys watching?“ I ask.

Luna swallows a bite of apple pie.

”Sailor Moon. Jenner and I are huge fans. It’s just getting interesting.“

”Oh my god. It’s been a while since I’ve watched Sailor Moon.“

I say and steal a bite from the apple pie.

”Wait, you've watched Sailor Moon? That’s really hot.“

She says and stares at me as if she’s seeing me for the first time.

I laugh.

”It was one of Keikis favorite animated tv shows of all time. Next to Scooby-Doo and Power Puff Girls. But Sailor Moon was Keiki's favorite. Every Sunday morning she’d get up early and tune in for Sailor Moon. At first, I didn’t want to admit that it was good but I started to like it. I even bought the mangas. They’re really good.“

Luna gasps.

”I love the illustrations. I’ve wanted to try myself at creating mangas. You know art is very widely ranged. So manga is a part that I haven’t branched out to yet but I’d love to.“

Luna gets all excited and I’m happy for her.

I love her, even more, when she’s all excited and passionate about a new area of art or a new art piece.

”You can borrow my mangas if you want.“ I offer and she nods.

I smile as we continue to watch Sailor Moon stumble upon a cute cat with a moon on her forehead.

Luna smiles at the cat and we keep watching episode after episode until we all fall asleep right on the couch.

It’s a beautiful feeling to fall asleep next to the person you love the most.

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[a-reader-and-a-writer-for-all]

Lewis Pullman Masterlist

Bob

Rhett Abbott

Miles Miller

Harrison Knott

🌟= new post

🤕= Whump 😥 = Angst 😘= Fluff/ Relationship

✍= reader insert ✉️ = ask/ request

Main Masterlist

Fics:

Waiting for Someone (Bob x Reader) 😘 ✍

When you show up at The Hard Deck, you catch everyone's eye. But there is only one person you are interested in….

A Mistake (Bob x Reader) 😘 🤕 😥 ✍

After a mysterious bar fight, you help patch up Bob. As you talk, both of you reveal more than expected.

I Thought I Lost You (Bob x Reader) 😘 🤕 😥 ✍

Bob was shot down in the middle of the desert and has been MIA for days. But just as you have given up all hope you will ever see your boyfriend again, you get some news.

The Accident (Part One) (Bob x Reader) 😘 🤕 😥 ✍

Working at a 911 dispatch center, you thought you had heard the worst things possible. But nothing compares to answering a call from your fiance's best friend….

The Accident (Part Two) (Bob x Reader) 😘 🤕 😥 ✍

While Bob survived the accident, you can't find the words to tell him the truth about what was lost that night.

From the One Who Loves You (WWII AU Bob x Reader) 😘 🤕 😥 ✍

Your fiancé, Bob, gets shipped overseas to fight in the war. Despite the distance, the two of you keep in contact through letters. This is a selection of the letters sent during this time.

No Laughing Matter (Bob x Reader) 😘 🤕 ✍

Ever since the Dagger Mission, hanging out with your boyfriend's teammates has been a lot of fun. Until one night when a drunken Jake takes things too far and everyone discovers that there is more to Bob than anyone anticipated.

Drabbles:

Perfect

Forgotten

Fics:

Cowboy Law (Rhett Abbott x Reader) 😘 ✍

You have had a crush on Rhett Abbot since high school though you have never worked up the courage to tell him so. But a misunderstanding in the bar one night may change that.

Just Passin' By (Rhett Abbott x Reader) 😘 ✍

After casually mentioning you are having trouble with your lawn mower, Rhett decides to stop by to lend a hand. When he is finished, you repay him for his kindness.

The Nicer Things in Life (Rhett Abbott x Reader) 😘 😥 ✍

Rhett decides to surprise you on your date one night. But is he trying too hard?

If You Can't Stand the Heat (Rhett Abbott x Reader) 😘 🤕 😥 ✍

Rhett promises he will only be out working in the pasture for an hour or so. But when he doesn't return, you go looking for him.

Stand By Your Man (Rhett Abbot x Reader) 😘 🤕 😥 ✍

Inspired by the rodeo scene in Episode 8 of Outer Range, what if there had been someone with Rhett when he hurt his shoulder? Someone who was actually there for him and cared? Good thing he has you.

Heading Home (Rhett Abbott x Reader) 🤕 😥 ✍

You are just heading home for the night with your husband when Luke Tillerson confronts Rhett, looking for revenge.

🌟 Life is Beautiful with You (Rhett Abbott x Reader) 😘 ✍

Things have not been exactly what you expected since Rhett proposed, but that doesn’t mean you love him any less.

Drabbles:

Sleep

Bedtime Story

Fics:

Not a Good Place (Miles Miller x Reader) 😘 😥 ✍

It has been years since Miles left you, but he has never left your heart. Taking a chance, you visit the hotel you heard he was now working at in the hopes you might not be the only one holding on to the past.

Open on Christmas (Miles Miller x Reader) 😘 ✍

It's Christmas Eve and the El Royale is without a single guest. However, Miles is still forced to work all night. Luckily, you are there to keep him company.

Fics:

White Christmas (Harrison Knott x Reader) 😘 ✍

Since moving to Hawaii a few years ago, you have missed the cold and snow, especially around Christmas time. Your boyfriend Harrison finds a solution to this problem.

HC for Harrison Celebrating Your Birthday

[ssj2hindudude]

where would the Potaotes (1st and 2nd Gen) go for vacations? Their dream vacation. Oh it must be set in the real world because their getting away from the magic and the Otherworld.

First off, sorry this took so long:

Mini: Ok, senior trip. Where do you wanna go?

Brynne: The Bahamas!

Mini: I don't know about that-

Aru: Let's go to Hell

Mini: ...No.

Brynne: Aru, we don't even believe in Hell. It's just a bunch of lower dimensions.

XD Ok, for real. Potato Family Vacations

The Shah-charyas:

Abha: Ok, I'm off school AND training for the summer, so that leaves us 3 months to play with for our family vacation. Where are we going?

Aru: Ho-

Aiden: Don't say Home Depot, that's not a vacation spot.

Aru: Says you...

Aiden: Come on, Aru. We've got portals that can take us literally anywhere in the world. Where do you want to-

Aru: Cross-country! We can literally pop over to all of the best places! We can be in the Grand Canyon one second and at Niagara Falls the next!

Aiden: Those aren't even in the sa- You know what, never mind. Abha, where do you want to go?

Abha: Well, I'm up for the popping idea as long as we can drop by Stonehenge.

Aru: Wait, you wanna watch a bunch of rocks?

Abha: I can only solve why they're there if I'm there in person!

Aru: There it is.

Aiden: Abha, are you sure you want to spend your vacation working on an archaeological dig?

Aru: Oh yeah, because that's any less boring than your idea.

Aiden: THE FOAM MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHY IS NOT BORING!

Abha and Aru: Ok, Wifey.

Aru: Wait, DON'T CALL YOUR FATHER WIFEY

The Kapoor-Mercado Lopezs:

Mini: Rudy, hurry up!

Rudy: What's the hurry, Mini? We have portals!

Mini: Yes, but if we're going to get through everyone's separate trips, we need to be in Paris before breakfast.

Rudy: Ok, but we're not going to make it to the catacombs if we have to lug all of that medical supplies. Is it really-

Mini: Yes, Rudy. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Mini: Priya! Suru! Get down here or we're leaving without you!

Priya: You and I both know you wouldn't leave us without a crash course on safety, Mom.

Mini: Whatever. Are your bags all packed?

Priya: Yup. I've got a list of all the anime cons and cafes I'm gonna hit in Tokyo. And I've got my cosplay ready.

Suru: And Alex and I can't wait to go exploring the Amazon with papa!

*Alex barks in affirmation*

Mini: Ok, but make sure to wear your sunscreen. And drink plenty of water. And don't wear anything that'll make you too hot. Or cold. Or-

Priya: Are we going on vacation or back to war?

The Raos:

Hira: Ok, so for our vacation spots, we've got the Geranium in Denmark, Venice, and The Srirangam Temple in Tamil, Nadu.

Ghata: Nice! Now we can spend each morning praying in the world's biggest Mandir

Hira: Then go sightseeing via gondola in the afternoons

Brynne: And spend the nights dining on the best ranked food in the world...besides mine of course...

Hira: About that, you sure you can handle critiquing their food, dear?

Ghata: Yeah, Amma. You kind of have a tendency to go overboard whenever you're in critiquing mode.

Brynne: Whoa, I have a critiquing mode?

Hira: I call it Raomsay Mode. Just promise not to get us thrown out.

Brynne: ...Maybe I should pick some backup restaurants...

The Khans:

Kara: Valerie, sweetie, you need a vacation!

Valerie: Ma, I have to get my summer studying done! My grades have been-

Sydney: Quite fine, actually. You did make the top spot again.

Valerie: Yeah, by a mere 2 points! At my best I've been doing 50!

Sydney: Look, I propose a deal. We'll spend the days going sightseeing and learning facts about the places we go and then we'll come right back for you to get your studying done for the night.

Valerie: Go on.

Sydney: Besides, I have heard much about my namesake and cannot wait to hear the beautiful compositions of the Sydney Opera House!

Kara: And we can relax and unwind in Hawaii! You can still read, but it'll feel much better on the beach with the sun shining on your skin and the waves crashing as white noise, won't it?

Valerie: ...Can I do it while eating Malassadas?

The Twins:

Nikita: I still don't see the point of us traveling when we can literally make up much better worlds in our dreams.

Sheela: First off, Nikki. You don't make the dreams, I do. Second, in the dream world, the experience will feel completely watered down. Sure, you can dream about doing a fashion show in Milan, but it'll have less of the same feel, your vision will be blurred, and let's face it, when we eat there, it's literally just our imagination.

Nikita: Fine. At least when we get to Milan, I'll be able to show them some real outfits. You all set for the Great Blue Hole?

Sheela: Yup. Those fish in Belize won't know what hit em!

The OSS Commanders:

Leon: For the last time, Irida, we are NOT going club-hopping in England. Not only is that a waste of time, but you are far too young!

Maya: Disneyland!

Irida: Hey, don't get pressed with me, gramps! At least it's better than your idea to go ice fishing in the Antarctic! Even though the penguins and seals are totes kawaii!

Maya: DISNEYLAND

Astoria: This is why I wanted to visit the Shaolin Temple. At least that place has discipline.

Maya: DIS-NEY LAN-DUH!

Cyrus: No offense, my meditative master, but training in a temple doesn't sound like a vacation to me. My vacations are chilling out on the beach, be it Fiji, the Caribbean, or with the Galapagos tortoises, sipping on juice and listening to the music of nature.

Maya: *deep breath* I WANNA GO TO-

Leon: Maya, we're not going to Disneyland. It's too crowded. And if you say it again, you're staying home!

Maya: 😢

Cleo: ...You guys do know we have portals, right?

Everyone: ...

[openheartfanfics]

Bryce x F!MC: Fluff

One Shot R-S

Rain - @altosxratus They’ve never been on an actual date. 

Rainy Days - @anotherbeingsworld  Bryce and Casey spend their weekend with a new idea.

Recollective Nights - @choicesstan1 

Reminscing Hours - @anotherbeingsworld  Bittersweet Lahela Family

Roll - @omgjasminesimone Pregnancy Fic

Rosé All Day - @peonierose  It’s Maxines birthday on February 14th, but Luna knows that Maxine doesn’t like Valentine‘s day. So she and the girls spend some quality time together. Feat. Keiki Lahela

Sandcastles - @thegreentwin  Set in the future, where Bryce takes his family to visit Hawaii for a month.

Scrunchies - @princesslahela  MC plays with Bryce’s hair.

Settled - @argylemnwrites  A long standing bet is about to be settled. Feat. The Gang

Seven Year Itch - @argylemnwrites  Bryce finds himself unusually sentimental as a large chapter in his life draws to a close. Set 6 years after Book 1. [Bryce POV]

Sharing is Caring - @storyofmychoices   Bryce and Olivia spend a quiet moment together celebrating their first sonogram.

Shining Through The Shadows - @storyofmychoices Olivia prepares a special eclipse viewing party for her patients.

Shooting Star - @chocopeppermintcake  Bryce and Casey see a shooting star.

Sick Day - @angstymarshmallow When Maci is stuck at home sick, she craves the attention that only one doctor can give her

Sick Day - @julia-highstorms  This takes place sometime during Book 1.

Silent Treatment - @omgjasminesimone  She’s pregnant and mad at him about a case.

Simple and True - @theonewiththeunconquerablesoul  Sometimes, all it takes is for one person to see the light that shines within.

Simply The Best - @writinghereandthere  Bryce proposes at the last minute whilst in the shower.

Sleeping Beauty - @appiomofchoice Bryce accidentally wakes up Darcy as he leaves in the morning.

Snatched - @tmarie82 Bryce coaxes her into CrossFit

Snowfall - @appiomofchoice ❄ Darcy fights a losing battle against her feelings as she and Bryce enjoy Bryce’s first snowfall.

Soft Sheets - @summertimemagic

Some Day - @robintora   Bryce imagines his future with Theia as Inés is walking down the aisle. [Bryce’s POV]

Someone Else's Christmas Star - @curiousconch 🎄 Casey performs in Edenbrook's annual Christmas charity concert. Set in the time jump of 2.18. Feat. Bryce x MC x Rafael

Something Sweet - @jerzwriter It's Olivia's birthday and her friends are ready to celebrate. Feat. Ethan x F!MC, Tobias x F!MC

Soon (It’s a Relative Term) - @storyofmychoices  Bryce and Olivia finally have a morning off together.

Soulmates - @omgjasminesimone Post housewarming party diamond scene Book 1.  

Specialties - @omgjasminesimone Bryce is on Tik Tok

Start Again - @anotherbeingsworld In our lifetimes, people would always come and go. But, sometimes… fate brought them back into our lives once more as a chance to start over.

Staying up all night to finish a game with them - @commander-rahrah

Stay. Please. - @altairadtaz

Stay Up on That Rise - @burnsoslow 🩺 Ch. 16 rewrite because I need Bryce and Allie settled, thank you!

Stay With Me - @bex-la-get   Bryce comes to the rescue when Sienna falls ill.

Stitches - @lucas-koh

Sudden Happiness - @anotherbeingsworld  Casey is stood up by a Tinder date and Bryce is there to take her mind off of it.

Summer Kiss - @peonierose  Luna and Bryce enjoy a bit of alone time together by Manoa Falls.

Sunburn - @mrsbhandari Bryce has rules for vacation. Very serious rules.

Sunday Morning - @altosxratus Day’s off are meant to be spent in bed. 

Sunshine - @writinghereandthere He is bright, hanging high in her sky, and resilient – if she gazes at him too long it might just hurt— soothe?— her.

Surfin’ Bird - @dancing-hippo  Bryce teaches Casey how to surf

Surgical Precision - @alj4890 Halloween fluff.

Sweet Life - @storyofmychoices   Bryce has a sweet surprise for Olivia, but things don't go quite as planned.

Sweet Love - @lahellacute Bryce distracts Casey while she’s baking.

_

SUBMIT OPEN HEART FICS & WRITERS HERE

[rockislandadultreads]

Book Recommendations: Earth Day

Guardians of the Valley by Dean King

In June of 1889 in San Francisco, John Muir—iconic environmentalist, writer, and philosopher—meets face-to-face for the first time with his longtime editor Robert Underwood Johnson, an elegant and influential figure at The Century magazine. Before long, the pair, opposites in many ways, decide to venture to Yosemite Valley, the magnificent site where twenty years earlier, Muir experienced a personal and spiritual awakening that would set the course of the rest of his life.

Upon their arrival the men are confronted with a shocking vision, as predatory mining, tourism, and logging industries have plundered and defaced “the grandest of all the special temples of Nature.” While Muir is consumed by grief, Johnson, a champion of society’s most pressing debates via the pages of the nation’s most prestigious magazine, decides that he and Muir must fight back. The pact they form marks a watershed moment, leading to the creation of Yosemite National Park, and launching an environmental battle that captivates the nation and ushers in the beginning of the American environmental movement.

Nature’s Best Hope by Douglas W. Tallamy

Douglas W. Tallamy’s first book, Bringing Nature Home, sparked a national conversation about the link between healthy local ecosystems and human well-being. In Nature's Best Hope, he takes the next step and outlines his vision for a grassroots, home-grown approach to conservation.

Nature's Best Hope advocates for homeowners everywhere to turn their yards into conservation corridors that provide wildlife habitats. This home-based approach doesn’t rely on the federal government and protects the environment from the whims of politics. It is also easy to do, and readers will walk away with specific suggestions they can incorporate into their own yards.

Nature's Best Hope is nature writing at its best—rooted in history, progressive in its advocacy, and above all, actionable and hopeful. By proposing practical measures that ordinary people can easily do, Tallamy gives us reason to believe that the planet can be preserved for future generations.

The National Parks by Dayton Duncan

America’s national parks spring from an idea as radical as the Declaration of Independence: that the nation’s most magnificent and sacred places should be preserved, not for royalty or the rich, but for everyone. In this evocative and lavishly illustrated narrative, Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan delve into the history of the park idea, from the first sighting by white men in 1851 of the valley that would become Yosemite and the creation of the world’s first national park at Yellowstone in 1872, through the most recent additions to a system that now encompasses nearly four hundred sites and 84 million acres.

The authors recount the adventures, mythmaking, and intense political battles behind the evolution of the park system, and the enduring ideals that fostered its growth. They capture the importance and splendors of the individual parks: from Haleakala in Hawaii to Acadia in Maine, from Denali in Alaska to the Everglades in Florida, from Glacier in Montana to Big Bend in Texas. And they introduce us to a diverse cast of compelling characters—both unsung heroes and famous figures such as John Muir, Theodore Roosevelt, and Ansel Adams—who have been transformed by these special places and committed themselves to saving them from destruction so that the rest of us could be transformed as well.

Climate Justice by Mary Robinson

Holding her first grandchild in her arms in 2003, Mary Robinson was struck by the uncertainty of the world he had been born into. Before his fiftieth birthday, he would share the planet with more than nine billion people--people battling for food, water, and shelter in an increasingly volatile climate. The faceless, shadowy menace of climate change had become, in an instant, deeply personal.

Mary Robinson's mission would lead her all over the world, from Malawi to Mongolia, and to a heartening revelation: that an irrepressible driving force in the battle for climate justice could be found at the grassroots level, mainly among women, many of them mothers and grandmothers like herself. From Sharon Hanshaw, the Mississippi matriarch whose campaign began in her East Biloxi hair salon and culminated in her speaking at the United Nations, to Constance Okollet, a small farmer who transformed the fortunes of her ailing community in rural Uganda, Robinson met with ordinary people whose resilience and ingenuity had already unlocked extraordinary change.

[salmonthestoryteller]

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

I actually wrote this fusion RNM/The Most Wonderful Time of the Year ficlet back in January 2020.  I didn’t end up posting it because of things happening in my life at the time took me away from the fandom for a bit.  This year, I glanced at it again, and edited it a bit so I could post it.  I may do a couple more holiday film fusions because cheesy holiday romances are my weakness.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

A Roswell New Mexico/The Most Wonderful TIme of the Year AU Fusion Ficlet

“I just didn’t think it was appropriate-”  Noah started but was cut off by Isobel.

“To what?  Write a very nice “Thank-you” note.  Because that’s what this is.  Would you care to read it?”  She held out the note.

“No, I would never read your mail.”

“You would never read my mail, but you would steal my mail.”

Michael and Alex glanced at each other uncomfortably as the yelling on the porch continued.

“And that’s another thing!  How could you propose to me in a room full of strangers?  I don’t even know those people!”

“I thought it would be exciting.  People do it at baseball games all the time.”

“Baseball games?  Those people are idiots, Noah!”

“I think I’ll um… feed the puppy.”  Michael retreated to the kitchen. Alex sent an exasperated look his way as Isobel and Noah reentered the house.  Noah was putting back on his coat, and it was obvious he wouldn’t be spending the evening with them.

“Wait.”  Isobel stormed up to him, pulling off the engagement ring she’d received the night before and holding it out to him.  “Don’t forget this.”

Noah and her stared at each other for a moment, before he took the ring and left without a word.

Isobel paused in the entryway a moment longer before she wandered over to sink down and sit on the stairs. Alex left his place on the couch to join her.  "What a mess."  She told him.  "I have been going crazy to make today perfect and now… Noah's out of the picture. And Kyle… he's probably on that plane to Denver right now and I'm never going to see him again."

"Probably…" Alex admitted. "But, on the bright side, there is turkey."

"Great. Max and Liz are having Christmas in Hawaii, you are here to spend Christmas with Michael… and I get a turkey."

"Or you could, y'know,  get off your ass and go find Kyle."

Isobel stared at him. "What? Run to the airport on Christmas Day on the chance I might find him in time? That's crazy."

"Yeah, it is." The look in Alex's eyes reminded Isobel that this was the guy who wouldn't give up on her brother even when Michael wanted to give up on himself. "So go do it already."

Isobel pulled him into a fierce hug, before grabbing her coat. "The turkey will be done at four, if you or Michael eat any before I get back - I will kill you."

Alex only grinned.  "I hear you."  The next moment she was out the door and he glanced up to find Michael holding the puppy and watching him from the kitchen doorway.  "This is shaping up to be a great Christmas."

"Did you plan all this?" Michael asked him.

"Me? Never."

-----

"I can't let you on without a boarding pass." The woman at the counter, Isobel was pretty sure her tag read Rosa, explained again.

"But I don't want to actually get on the plane, I just want to get someone off the plane."

"Wait, isn't this the same guy from yesterday? The one you wanted out of your house?"

Isobel sighed, leaning her purse on the counter. She didn’t notice when the bag accidentally hit the paging button on the microphone.  "Look, I know this sounds nuts.  I only met the guy 72 hours ago, and at the beginning, he drove me absolutely nuts.  But he's great. He's great with my best friend, my brother grudgingly approves of him - and trust me my brother doesn't approve of anyone. He's witty, he can cook, he stuck it to my neighbor, which was really amazing, he's… beautiful.   He made Christmas feel really special for the first time in ages."

-----

In a different part of the airport, almost to the head of the line, Kyle paused.  He could swear the person talking was Isobel, but that was crazy.   Isobel had gotten engaged to Noah the previous evening and would be having Christmas dinner with him, Alex, and Michael right now. 

"I have never done anything this crazy, believe me." The voice on the paging system continued. "But I have to take the chance, because otherwise… I may never see him again. And I really want to… can you please just check for me? His name is Kyle Valenti. He's on the flight to Denver."

Kyle had reached the front of the line but froze at his name.  "That is her.  That's me. She's talking about me." A smile broke out on his face, and he tossed his pass at the bewildered attendant in front of him.  "I have to go." Turning around he started to slide around the other people waiting to board to head back into the airport.

----

Isobel bounced in place as she waited for Rosa to finish looking on her computer.   She'd never dared anything like this. Surely it had to pay off.  But the look Rosa gave her when she looked up from her screen was apologetic. "According to this, he already boarded."

Isobel felt her hopes shatter around her and her voice was small as she asked, "He did?" The other woman nodded, and Isobel gathered herself up as she picked up her purse.  She was Isobel Evans, and she did not break down in front of strangers.   "Thank-you." She told her and headed away from the counter.

She still had Alex and Michael, she reminded herself.  She had Max and Liz, even if they had ditched her this year for the tropics. She had the damn turkey dinner she'd worked so hard on. She would be fine.

Her feet carried her through the airport, heading for the front doors, when a voice behind and above her drew her attention. "Isobel! Izzy!"

She whirled, and - inexplicably - there he was a floor above her, leaning over the balcony to shout down at her.  She felt a smile light her face, and Kyle echoed her expression.

[readingforsanity]

The Wife Before | Shanora Williams | Published 2022

Samira Wilder has never had it easy, and when her latest lousy job goes south, things only promise to get harder. Until she unexpectedly meets a man who will change her life forever. Renowned pro golfer Roland Graham is wealthy, handsome and caring, and Samira is dazzled. Best of all, he seems to understand her better than anyone ever has. And though their relationship moves a bit dast, when Roland proposes, Samira accepts. She even agrees to relocate to his secluded Colorado mansion. After all, there's nothing to keep her in Miami, and the mansion clearly makes him happy. Soon, they are married amid a media firestorm, and Samira can't wait to make a fresh start...as the second Mrs. Graham.

Samira settles into the mansion, blissfully happy - until she discovers long-hidden journals belonging to Roland's late wife, Melanie, who died in a tragic accident. With each dusty page, Samira comes to realize that perhaps it was no accident at all - that perhaps her perfect husband is not as perfect as she thought. Even as her trust in Roland begins to dwindle and a shadow falls over her marriage and she begins to fear for her own life, Samira is determined to uncover the truth of Melanie's troubled last days. But even good wives should know the truth is not always what it seems...

Samira is going nowhere in life. At 28 years old, she isn't married, has no children and has virtually no career to speak of. After watching her mother work herself to death after her father split, Samira vowed to never allow work to control her life.

When her roommate and best friend Sheila tells her that she would like her long-term boyfriend Ben to move in, Samira knows that something needs to change. In addition to that, Samira's brother, Kell, has cut her off financially after his fiancee discovers that she is pregnant and requested that Kell inform Samira that they would no longer be able to take care of her.

While working as a waitress at an event one evening in order to make $300, Samira meets professional golfer Roland Graham. He is handsome, tall and everything Mira has been looking for. Roland is currently suffering with the death of his first wife, Melanie, and he has been accused of being involved in her death in some way. He has spent the last 3 years dealing with the aftermath of her suicide/homicide, and is amazed that Samira never heard of him before.

Despite Kell's opinion that Samira leave him alone, the two of them take their relationship to the next level very quickly. They marry at his mansion in Colorado, and begin their life together. Samira feels constantly haunted by Melanie's presence in the house, as it is the same house that she once lived in. With the idea that she would begin working in graphic design and selling her designs for extra cash, Samira wants to take the shed that once belonged to Melanie and make it her own.

She begins working through the things inside, where Roland's mother once placed all of Melanie's things after her death for Roland to deal with another time. In her search, she finds six journals that were written in by Melanie, and inside, she uncovers horrifying truths.

Inside, she learns that Melanie and Roland's first cousin, Dylan, had been sleeping together and that Roland was none the wiser of their indiscretions. Melanie attempted to end her marriage to Roland while vacationing in Hawaii and things quickly took a turn. Melanie was sure that something evil was afoot, and that she wanted to get out of the marriage, but Roland wouldn't let her.

When Samira learns from Kell that Melanie and her sister, Miley, were both involved in the rape and molestation of their persons by a man named Calvin Thompson, Samira enlists SHeila and Ben to help her and go investigating him. Calvin is adamant that Melanie lied about their supposed nonconsensual relationship, and that it was in fact consensual. Once Calvin's guilt got the better of him, he attempted to leave which then led to Melanie and Miley going to the police about the supposed rape and molestation.

Samira begins to wonder if the body inside of the car was actually Melanie's. Melanie and Miley were identical twin sisters, and they shared DNA, meaning that it could have been Miley inside of the car and Melanie could be alive. Samira confronts Roland with everything, and she understands now that he had nothing to do with Melanie's death.

They return to North Carolina, and during their search of Calvin's home while he isn't home, Samira finds a camera where Calvin had been holding the two sisters hostage. In one of the videos, he shoots Miley up with heroin, and when Mira opens a suspicious looking freezer inside of the shed, she finds Melanie's head and various body parts.

They learn that Calvin had kept them hostage, and that the body in the car was Miley's. Calvin had given her too much heroin and she overdosed, and he had cut up Melanie's body and placed it in the freezer.

When they return to Colorado, Samira also uncovers that the person behind Calvin finding the sisters was Dylan. Dylan had been discovered to have been stealing from Roland and giving the funds to his family because he was jealous of Roland and had been for his entire life. He reached out to Calvin and gave him the information he needed, but he didn't think that Calvin would end up murdering her or Miley. But, he was the one who ended up having Miley's body driven off the cliff, and he planned to continue stealing from Roland for as long as he wanted. He threatens Samira to keep his secret.

At the end, 8 months after the events with Calvin, Dylan's body is discovered inside of their mansion, having been dubbed a suicide after a suicide note was found on his body. But the reader is led to believe that Samira was behind his death as his throat had been slit with a pink pocketknife that once belonged to her.

3/5 stars.