#Best foods for blood sugar control

[suratdiabeticfootcare]

Essential Tips for Effective Blood Sugar Control for Diabetics

Managing diabetes and achieving sugar control requires more than just medication; it involves lifestyle changes, diet adjustments, and regular monitoring. For people with diabetes, stable blood sugar levels help prevent complications and improve quality of life. Here’s a practical guide with blood sugar control tips that can help anyone with diabetes stay on track. For those in Gujarat, the Surat Diabetic Foot & Ulcer Clinic provides dedicated diabetic foot care and supports patients in their journey to better health.

Why Blood Sugar Control is Important for Diabetics

In diabetes, the body struggles to regulate blood sugar, which can cause significant health issues if left unmanaged. High blood sugar levels can lead to complications such as nerve damage, kidney disease, and even heart problems. Recognising the symptoms of high blood sugar - like increased thirst, fatigue, and frequent urination - is vital in knowing when blood sugar needs to be managed.

Managing blood sugar also includes foot health, as diabetics are at risk for foot problems due to reduced blood flow and nerve damage. Clinics like the Surat Diabetic Foot & Ulcer Clinic specialise in helping patients maintain foot health, a critical part of overall diabetic care.

Build a Balanced Diet

The foundation of effective blood sugar control is diet. Choosing the right foods helps prevent spikes in blood sugar levels and provides consistent energy. Here are some dietary tips:

Incorporate Fibre: Foods high in fibre, such as whole grains, vegetables, and legumes, help slow the absorption of sugar, making it easier to control sugar levels.

Focus on Low-Glycemic Foods: Low-glycemic foods like beans, whole oats, and non-starchy vegetables release glucose gradually, reducing spikes.

Choose Healthy Proteins and Fats: Protein and healthy fats from sources like nuts, seeds, lean meats, and fish help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

With proper planning, diabetics can manage their diet and achieve blood sugar control without drastic restrictions. For guidance on personalised diet plans, diabetics can reach out to local clinics like Surat Diabetic Foot & Ulcer Clinic.

Importance of Regular Exercise

Physical activity plays a crucial role in lowering blood sugar levels by helping muscles use glucose for energy. Additionally, regular exercise can improve insulin sensitivity, which is beneficial for blood sugar control. Here’s how to make physical activity part of your routine:

Pick Enjoyable Activities: Walking, cycling, swimming, and yoga are effective and low-impact exercises that are easier to stick with long-term.

Monitor Your Blood Sugar Levels: Check your blood sugar before and after exercise to understand how your body responds.

Start Slow and Stay Consistent: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, broken down over several days.

For those with specific needs, such as diabetic foot concerns, clinics like the Surat Diabetic Foot & Ulcer Clinic can help create a safe exercise plan that minimises injury risk.

Take Medications as Prescribed

For many, medication is essential for keeping blood sugar levels stable. Common medication for sugar diabetes may include insulin or oral drugs to help the body use insulin effectively. Key points to remember:

Stick to Your Schedule: Taking medication as prescribed helps maintain consistent blood sugar levels in diabetics.

Communicate with Healthcare Providers: Inform your doctor if you experience side effects or fluctuations in blood sugar. They may adjust doses to optimise your treatment.

Don’t Skip or Double Up: Missing doses or taking too much can lead to complications, so follow the prescribed plan carefully.

Specialised clinics like the Surat Diabetic Foot & Ulcer Clinic offer guidance and support to help patients manage medications effectively.

Monitor Blood Sugar Regularly

For people with diabetes, frequent blood sugar checks provide valuable insight into how daily habits affect their health. Monitoring blood sugar levels can:

Help Identify Triggers: Recognise foods, stressors, or habits that cause spikes or drops.

Guide Your Diet and Exercise: Knowing how your body responds helps tailor diet and activity plans.

Improve Long-Term Health: Tracking blood sugar over time gives you and your doctor a clear picture of your health.

Consistent monitoring empowers people to adjust their habits and achieve better control. Clinics like the Surat Diabetic Foot & Ulcer Clinic can help patients understand their readings and make informed decisions.

Prioritise Foot Care

Diabetic foot care is critical for people with diabetes due to the increased risk of foot ulcers, infections, and other complications. Here’s how diabetics can protect their feet:

Inspect Feet Daily: Look for any cuts, blisters, or signs of infection, as even minor injuries can escalate quickly.

Choose Comfortable Footwear: Diabetic-friendly shoes help protect feet and prevent injuries.

Schedule Regular Checkups: Visiting a clinic, such as the Surat Diabetic Foot & Ulcer Clinic, ensures early detection of foot issues and personalised advice.

Foot care not only prevents serious complications but also improves quality of life for diabetics.

Make Lifestyle Changes for Lasting Health

Simple lifestyle adjustments can greatly aid in blood sugar control and reduce the risk of complications. Consider these tips:

Reduce Stress: Chronic stress can lead to spikes in blood sugar levels, so practising relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing can help.

Prioritise Quality Sleep: Getting 7-9 hours of sleep supports overall health and helps regulate insulin levels.

Limit Alcohol and Quit Smoking: Both alcohol and smoking can interfere with blood sugar management, so limiting these can support better overall health.

Managing diabetes is about consistency and commitment. A balanced approach that includes dietary changes, exercise, medication, and careful monitoring can make a big difference. For those in need of additional support, Surat Diabetic Foot & Ulcer Clinic provides specialised care, particularly for diabetic foot health, and can assist patients in developing a personalised diabetes management plan.

Conclusion

Managing blood sugar effectively is possible with the right approach. A combination of diet, exercise, regular monitoring, and lifestyle adjustments creates a strong foundation for diabetics. For those in Surat, the Surat Diabetic Foot & Ulcer Clinic is a valuable resource for managing diabetes, especially for those at risk of foot complications. Embracing these strategies will not only improve blood sugar levels but also help diabetics live healthier, more fulfilling lives.

For expert diabetic foot care solutions, connect with Surat Diabetic Foot & Ulcer Clinic! Reach us at +91 8849066499 or email info@suratdiabeticfootcare.in  Your path to specialised care starts here!

[healixhospitals24]

Discover the ultimate guide to power foods for diabetes management. Learn what to eat and why for better health and glucose control.

Do Visit: https://www.healixhospitals.com/blogs/the-ultimate-guide-to-power-foods-for-diabetes-management:-what-to-eat-and-why

[gofitnesspro]

Top 5 Advantages of Chia Seeds for Hormonal Balance

Chia Seeds for Hormonal Balance: Hormones are important as they coordinate various body functions. They are responsible for the signals to manage different body parts. Moreover, they travel through your blood to muscles, tissues, skin and so on. Learn here the advantages of chia seeds to support the balancing of hormones. What Are the Benefits of Chia Seeds for Hormonal Balance? Gut Health Gut…

[froody]

please help my scruggly cat

Tommy, Tumblr micro-celebrity famous for featuring/being the muse for hit posts such as ‘father is…evil?’ and ‘my cat can tell when I’m sad and instinctively bites my toes’ and ‘frustrating each other is our love language’ needs a little financial support. Please consider donating to my ko-fi or buying something from my teespring store.

Tommy was diagnosed with diabetes earlier this year under dramatic circumstances that involved a week long intensive care vet stay. She has stomatitis (an inflammation of the gums and mucus membranes) that she was on steroids for and the steroids may have damaged her pancreas. Since her diagnosis we’ve had a hard time controlling her blood sugar. Her insulin dose goes up and up. The vet thinks she has a good chance of stabilizing, that diabetic cats can and do live long, healthy and happy lives. She’s only 5. Her 6th birthday is later this month. She’s fighting. She wants to live.

Each insulin vial costs $160. Her prescription cat food is $35 for a 4 pound bag. She’s also on gabapentin for her pain and neuropathy and she’ll probably need another course of antibiotics. She currently goes to the vet every two weeks and the cost of that varies immensely. Basically, she’s a much more expensive cat than she was before and the cost of living for me has risen as well. It’s not an immediate emergency but we need funds. I’m disabled, I have an autoimmune disease that attacks my colon, I have a hard time working outside of the home or even at all because my health fluctuates and my energy levels are low. I’m trying so desperately to get better but for now I’m living in my mom’s house and sponging off my loved ones and tapping into my meager savings.

I know what you’re thinking, the thing people always comment on donation posts about pets, “if you can’t afford to care for your cat, why do you still have your cat?” and as biting as that question is, I know it’s a valid one and I’ve thought about it myself. I still have her because I need her and she needs me. She’s like my soulmate animal. We met when I was 16 and she was about 4 weeks old. There was no way I could have known we’d both be struggling sick moneypits in 5 years. I’m trying to give her the best life I can and she’s trying to give me her best self. I’m her person. I’m home 24/7 so we’re so used to having each other. She brings me immense joy and I know she’s brought a lot of other people joy. If you’re one of those people, please consider giving a couple of dollars. If you can’t afford to, that’s fine. Thank you for reading anyway.

TL;DR: cat sick. I’m sick. please help.

[roosterforme]

The Younger Kind Part 31 | Rooster x Reader

Summary: Bradley knows there's only one way to contend with what Carl did, and he will gladly do it for you. All he wants is his house, his kid and his girl. You on the other hand don't know quite how to deal with anything that's going on, because it all seems out of your control. 

Warnings: Angst, swearing, fluff, fighting, blood, and age gap (18+)

Length: 3500 words

Pairing: Single dad!Bradley "Rooster" Bradshaw x babysitter!female reader

Check out my masterlist for more! The Younger Kind masterlist.

You were so anxious for your first day of work, you actually woke up way too early and spilled blazing hot coffee all over your scrubs, forcing you to make a detour back to the bedroom to get changed. All you seemed to be able to think about was that video. That goddamn video. You wished you never looked in that box in the attic.

Once again, you were on the verge of tears as you pulled on a clean top and went to wake Noah up for the day. Everything felt like too much right now unless he was with you. The fact that you were as dependent on Noah as he was on you was probably nothing to brag about, but he really lit up every time you read to him or made him food. And you felt much better inside when he was snuggled up with you or holding your hand. 

You felt like his mom. You felt like you belonged here with him. He trusted you to take care of him, and you always would. But your confidence where Bradley was concerned felt stunted now, and you couldn't even talk to him about it. If you were even strong enough to bring it up at all. 

Noah climbed out of bed and went right to you for a hug, never questioning if he was welcome with you. "Morning, sweet Noah," you whispered against his soft hair. "Did you have happy dreams?"

He yawned and said, "Yeah. I was a pink dinosaur, and all of the other dinosaurs were afraid of me. So I got to eat all the Skittles."

"Wow," you said with a laugh as you carried him into the kitchen for breakfast. "That's the best dream I've ever heard of."

"Yeah, I know." 

He ate some eggs while you successfully drank your coffee and vanilla creamer without spilling it this time. And when you dropped him off at daycare, the same girl was working at the front desk.

"Hi, Noah," she said sweetly before handing you the clipboard to sign with a bland expression. You kissed Noah on the cheek and watched him walk in with the other kids before you signed your name. "And will you be picking him up again today, or should we be expecting another babysitter?"

You froze, and a startled laugh escaped your lips. "I'll be picking him up. And I'm the only babysitter." She appraised you again, so you added, "Only the best for Lieutenant Bradshaw and his son," before you spun on your heel and strolled out to the parking lot. 

You were driving the Bronco. You were in charge of Noah. Bradley was acting like some sort of sugar daddy boyfriend with the credit card you had tucked in your wallet. You shouldn't have been feeling insecure at all. You tried not to think about anything except getting to work on time for your first day. 

And being out of the house did help. You met all of the doctors and other nurses, and some of them were your age. Dr. Kelly treated you to lunch, and you got to chat with her a bit. You learned you'd get to assist with a few special needs kids later in the week. It was exciting. You had your own tiny workspace. Being there occupied your mind. 

But when you were asked to fill out a small stack of new hire paperwork in the afternoon, your pen stopped on the page multiple times. You hesitated twice before you eventually wrote Bradley's address as your own. You wrote his name and phone number down as your emergency contact, but you felt ridiculous writing 'boyfriend' where it asked for your relationship to him. After a brief debate, you wrote it anyway and moved on. And a beneficiary for your life insurance? Well, you didn't really have anyone else, so you put Noah. 

And then when you handed everything back in, you felt kind of like you were pretending to be an adult. 

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

Bradley waited on his bunk for Carl to return. It was getting late, and he wondered where the fuck he was. Without completely dismantling the tiny room, Bradley had searched through as much of Carl's shit as he could. And that was after confirming that he was only missing the one polaroid that you sent with him. 

His ears were ringing. Fingers twitching. He was absolutely repulsed by the thought of anyone else looking at that picture. But especially Carl. That was a line you just didn't cross with a bunkmate. Bradley had seen some wild shit in his days, walked in on some things he wished he could unsee. But you simply did not mess with personal items. And you certainly didn't take anything under any circumstances without permission. And if it was anything pertaining to a wife, girlfriend or significant other, it was absolutely forbidden. 

And if you broke any of these unwritten rules, well... you should know what you were in for. 

When Bradley heard a key in the door close to midnight, his hands automatically curled into fists. Your pretty face popped into his mind, smiling up at him, a teasing smirk on your lips. Even though you weren't here, you deserved to be defended right now. He'd protect you and Noah until he used up his dying breath. And that just meant things weren't looking too hot for Carl at the moment. 

The other man strolled in wearing his gym clothes, and it struck Bradley that Carl was probably a little older than he was. He was in good shape, too, but that wouldn't stop Bradley from beating the absolute shit out of him if necessary. 

"What's up, Carl?" he asked, remaining seated with his fists planted on either side of him on the bed. When Carl seemed barely able to meet his eyes, Bradley knew for sure.

"Hey," he replied awkwardly. "Just wanted to hit the gym when it was empty."

Bradley just watched him for a few seconds, silently demanding eye contact. When Carl finally stopped bumbling around and met his eyes, Bradley slowly stood. "Where is it?"

Carl's eyes flashed with panic as Bradley rolled his shoulders and took a step closer in the already limited space. "What? What are you talking about?" He tried to back away, but there was really nowhere to go. 

"If you make me ask again, it's going to be a lot worse for you, man."

"I... I..." Carl's eyes followed Bradley's left hand as he loosened his fist. And then Bradley slammed him back against the door. 

"You know better," Bradley growled. "This isn't your first deployment. You know the rules. And it belongs to me. Where. Is. It?"

"The photo?" Carl whispered as Bradley pressed the heel of his hand against his sternum with even more pressure. 

Bradley raised his voice. "Where the hell is it? It better have never left this fucking room."

"I have it!" Carl swore, and Bradley released him.

"Get it," Bradley said as calmly as he could, but his voice was shaking. He watched Carl dig around in his bedding, procuring the photo of you and your perfect tits and your barely concealed pussy. Bradley had a flashback to Noah's birthday party when Jake kissed you. Then he pictured you at the fraternity house, drunk and helpless. Carl was about to pay a pretty large price. 

"Here," he grunted, extending the polaroid out to Bradley. Once he set it down on top of his dresser, making sure the photo was still perfect, he turned back to Carl and sucker punched him right on the nose. 

Blood was gushing onto his gym shirt as Bradley said, "That's fucked up, Carl. You had my photo in your bed."

He was holding his nose, looking at Bradley with guilty eyes. "Sorry," he mumbled.

"That's my girl, you piece of shit." Bradley was seething as he rammed Carl back up against the door. 

"She's your girl?" he asked, trying to stop the bleeding with both hands now. "She looks barely legal. How old is she?"

Bradley released him and took a step back before he did more damage than he intended to. "Do you really think it's a good idea to ask me that, Carl? You probably jerked it to my girlfriend after you stole my photo, and now you're asking me how old she is?" He was panting, letting the rage flow through him, and then both hands curled into fists again.

"Shit, I didn't- I wasn't-"

"You're not very bright, are you?" Bradley asked, cutting him off. "I'll let you walk out of this room with your face mostly intact as long as you guarantee that you'll wear your bruises around this carrier without even so much as looking in my direction. And don't you dare visit the infirmary. Your indiscretion doesn't blow back on me. You got it?"

Carl looked resigned as he lowered his hands from his face and nodded. "Yeah. I got it."

Then Bradley landed one more punch, hard as hell, and Carl staggered around the room for a few seconds before he managed to take himself out into the hallway and toward the bathroom. Bradley carefully picked up his polaroid, and his heart ached. He was yours, and he'd have done anything to see your beautiful face in person right now.

And if Carl didn't so much as speak to him or look at him again for the rest of the deployment, it would be just fine with Bradley.

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

You always felt like you were rushing around. When you got out of work an hour early one Wednesday, you decided to use the time to go grocery shopping before you picked up Noah. It was easier to get just the necessities this way. The downside was that you were definitely getting lost in your own thoughts as you stood in the produce area selecting apples. 

It was almost a relief that Bradley hadn't contacted you yet. If you had to look him in the eye right now, you weren't sure you could do it without crying. That USB drive was currently on top of the refrigerator where you couldn't see it, but it was still enough to upset you when you thought about it. But at the same time, you missed your boyfriend and wanted him to come home, and you knew Noah would benefit from talking to him.

You wasted so much time looking at fucking apples that you were going to be late if you didn't get going. You winced as you used the purple princess credit card to pay for the food, and then you organized everything in the back of the Bronco. You loved driving it and briefly wondered if he'd still let you after he got home. 

You pulled into the gas station that was just a few blocks from Noah's daycare, once again using Bradley's credit card. You sighed as you inserted the card for payment and then started to fill the tank. And then you looked up toward the next row of pumps, and you were sure you knew that BMW. A second later, you met Meredith's gaze, and a chill went through your body.

You were afraid your voice was going to shake, but you called out, "You're not supposed to come near me."

She laughed maliciously. "This is a gas station, and I was here first. So maybe you should stay away from me."

"With pleasure," you snarled. You had to close your eyes against the sick feeling that rose inside you. Naked. You could picture her naked. Bradley used to love her. 

"You already ruined my life," Meredith snapped. "So your little restraining order stunt really doesn't matter to me." Then she was climbing into her car, and you watched her peel out of the parking lot and into traffic, heading in the opposite direction from Noah's daycare. 

Your hands were unsteady as you finished up at the gas pump. She was right; she had been at the gas station first. She was with Bradley first. She was Noah's mom before you ever came into the picture as his babysitter. She was everywhere, and she wouldn't go away.

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

Bradley emailed you days ago to let you know he would be able to FaceTime with you and Noah tonight, but you'd only written back, "Sounds good." You didn't give him any updates. You didn't call him Daddy. You didn't say anything else. 

Sounds good.

He grunted as he worked out in the gym. The sooner he could get this deployment completed and get home, the better. Carl's face was starting to look better now, but Bradley smiled every time he saw the bruises. He had no idea what excuse the other man had given for looking like a raccoon with two black eyes and a bent nose, and he didn't really fucking care. If anyone assumed he was the one who caused the bruising, they probably also assumed it was warranted. 

Those polaroids were wrapped up and put away now. But Bradley wanted the real thing. Your body and your voice. He'd been thinking about how insufficient it felt to call you his girlfriend. Just the same way you'd always felt like more than Noah's babysitter to them. But now with your lack of a real response, Bradley felt a little foolish for thinking about proposing to you. 

When it was time to make the call home, he sighed deeply. And when you answered your phone on the living room couch, your expression was hesitant. 

"Princess," he rasped, holding the iPad with both hands. "Baby. I miss you."

It felt like an eternity before you responded. "We miss you, too." 

He had so much he wanted to say and talk about, but your voice was just a little too soft, and your eyes were just a little too sad. "What's wrong?" he asked, but you were already shaking your head.

"Here. Talk to Noah." And then you were out of the frame, and Noah was there. Bradley laughed as he talked about daycare and making something called peanut butter snails and going for hikes. He held up some of the coloring sheets he had worked on, and Bradley noted that you had dated all of them. You always did little things like that. Now he'd be able to see which days his son worked on the coloring sheets when he got home. 

"I miss you so much, bub."

"Will you come home soon?" Noah asked, and Bradley's heart absolutely melted. 

"Really soon. And we can go to the beach and maybe take a little vacation, okay? Now can you sit with Princess so I can talk to her, too?"

And then you were immediately back in the frame and scooping Noah onto your lap. So you must have been standing right there the whole time. 

"That's better," Bradley sighed. His house, his kid, his girl. "You have no idea how much I wish I was on that couch with you." 

You smiled softly. "Do you know when you'll be back?"

"I'm not sure, Baby. Not soon enough. Tell me about work."

So you indulged him in a few stories, and it sounded like you fit in there. You liked your coworkers, especially Dr. Kelly. You loved all the kids you got to talk to and care for all day. But you still seemed a little distant.

"Are you sleeping okay?" he asked. "Any issues?"

You pressed a kiss to Noah's cheek and said, "We just miss you. That's all."

"We want you to come home," Noah whined. 

"Please?" you added softly. 

"So soon," he reiterated, wishing he could give you both a kiss. "Watch for my emails?"

"I will," you promised. 

"I love you. Both of you."

Then you and Noah said in unison, "I love you, too." And then he had to end the call.

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

Well it was done now. You were on your way to get the last few things from your place with Noah before you turned your key over to your landlord. Or former landlord. You were done paying rent here, and now you could start helping Bradley pay his mortgage. In fact, he would be home in a few days, and you'd talk to him about it then. There were actually a lot of things you wanted to have a conversation about.

"Do you remember when you came here for dinner? And I made you spaghetti in my little kitchen?"

"That was a long time ago," Noah insisted, and you held his hand as you walked up the sidewalk. "You live at my house now."

"Yep," you replied softly as you let go of his hand and dug around in your bag for the key you hardly ever used now. "Let's just hope that makes your Daddy happy and not annoyed since I never really gave him a verbal answer," you mumbled, finally locating the key. 

As you shoved it into the lock, Noah knelt down and picked something up from the porch. "What's this?" he asked, reaching his hand up to you.

Your eyes went wide. "Drop it," you said right away, and he let the piece of broken glass fall back to the porch. But there was more. Both of you were standing in it, and when you reached to turn the knob, there must have been a shard there.

"Shit," you gasped as your right palm started bleeding. Your heart was pounding in your ears as you kicked the door fully open. One of the panes of glass in the door had been smashed, and there was more of the mess on the floor inside. "Don't touch anything," you hissed, and Noah started crying. 

You kept him close enough to take a few pictures as soon as you were able to fumble with your phone. You took seven photos of all the glass plus the item that had been left. For you. It was just a dollar store coloring book, but there was a note on top of it written in crayon. Have fun playing house.

It had to have been from Meredith. Who else could have done it? She was already claiming you ruined her life. And ever since you saw her at the gas station, you were nervous that wasn't the last of her.

Blood was starting to pool a little bit in your upturned palm, and there wasn't much you could do at the moment except for ruin your shirt. "Let's get out of here," you whispered, and the two of you walked back across the porch, the glass crunching beneath your feet. 

You were able to buckle Noah with one hand, but even when you got back to Bradley's house, you were still bleeding. And the glass needed to be removed. So you finally caved and called Natasha. 

"I kind of need your help," you told her vaguely over the phone.

She laughed in response. "I kind of need a lot of things. What can I do for you?"

"Can you come by and help me remove a piece of glass from my dominant hand?"

"Fuck. Of course. I'm on my way," she replied, all tones of joking  gone. 

She was there in less than fifteen minutes, and she washed her hands right away. Then she used the sterilized tweezers that you handed to her to carefully remove the glass. "Just the one piece?" she asked, meeting your eyes. 

"I think so. I already checked Noah really thoroughly."

Nat's expression darkened. "Why don't you tell me what happened?"

You were pressing some gauze against your palm now. You might need stitches. You would probably benefit from getting stitches. But you couldn't do them yourself with your left hand, and you didn't want to leave Noah right now. Not even with Nat. He was watching a Mickey Mouse cartoon on the couch, and you didn't want him further away from you than that. 

"It was just some broken glass," you replied. 

"Here?" she asked, looking around the kitchen.

"No. At my old place. It's fine. I just need to tell my landlord about it, and I'll replace it." You were amazed how easily you were able to keep your voice steady. 

"Right," Nat replied with an unamused look. "Bradley will be home in a couple days? Do you want me to stay here until he's back?"

"Of course not. We're fine," you insisted, averting your gaze.

She stood to leave and sighed deeply. "Please call me back if you need anything, okay? And do us both a favor and don't lie to Bradley when you pick him up."

You pressed your lips together and nodded. "I won't," you said softly. And after she left, you took Noah into bed with you and snuggled him tight. 

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

I hate Carl. I hate Meredith. I want Daddy to come home. Hope you enjoy your fic, @beyondthesefourwalls And thank you @mak-32 !

PART 32

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[satansdarlin]

can i request headcanons for the monster trio plus ace with a Fem!reader on her period?

Sure! Some of these are based off of personal experience of what my boyfriend does for me

Period headcanons (monster trio, plus ace)

Warnings: talk of blood (obv), slightly suggestive in ace's part.

Masterlist

Luffy

Man does not get it at first. Straight up thought you were dying.

But after some explanation from Robin, you, and Nami beating him, he finally gets it.

Still doesn't understand it in full but gets the most part

This man is now glued to you hip, even going as far as to deny playing games with usopp and chopper.

He kinda treats it like you are recovering from a injury

So obviously you need help with everything in his mind

Taking a bath? Now luffy has to sit in the bathroom and make sure you don't hurt yourself

Hungry? Omg so is he!

You wanna lay in bed all day? He's gonna cuddle you for most of it

Once he discovered the chocolate thing he made sure you had what kind you wanted.

In short luffy is the kind of boyfriend to constantly be beside you during your period if he can help it.

"Y/N can bleed for days and still be able to work! She's so cool right?!"

Sanji

Ngl man has been prepared for this day

He knows your cycle better than you do man

Like he is prepared with extra blankets

Red meats to help you recover the iron you loose

Mentally prepared for any mood swings you might have

And has stocked up on a stash of snacks just for you during this time

While he is the most attentive and loving during this he is also the absolute worst in the best way possible

He's just trying to be helpful and you know that

But he is also making you eat liver and kidneys because you need the protein and iron

Also the type to just straight up scream at anyone who bothers you during this

You are his baby. Gotta keep you safe and happy especially when you are aching

"Come on, sugar. Eat the kidneys it's good for you- LUFFY DONT YOU DARE EAT THAT"

"But she doesn't want it"

"Shut up stupid. Come on now honey eat the food I even have some chocolate chip cookies waiting after you finish this"

Zoro

Unbothered king

Straight up just doesn't care about bloody sheets or mood swings

He kinda thought you had a wound at first that you had hidden from him and freaked the fuck out

But after some explanation and him examining you just to be sure, he understood.

Makes you drink water the whole time

Does not care if you complain about being bloated. you are drinking those eight glasses a day

Naps with you during your sleepytimes

Will hold his hand on your stomach to apply pressure when you ask

But will also make jokes about you being his ketchup packet

Will go shopping for your tampons, pads, period cups. Doesn't know what any of them are so he asks Nami and robin for help

Comes back with something from every brand he could find and is now deeper in debt to Nami

Also straight up growled at someone when he could see they were annoying you???

He is now your social shield. Will tell someone where they can shove it if they don't fuck off and let you rest.

"607...608...609....610- oh. Nap time already? Alright alright I'm coming woman- did you just call me your cuddle bear? No I'm not blushing shut up"

Ace

Ahem. Ace? More like living heating pad.

More than happy to hold you the whole time

Nice and cozy against those warm man titties 🤌

Anyway. He is absolutely one of the best about things

Completely indifferent if you snap at him. Understands that you are just easily frustrated and also sympathizes with you cause he can't imagine feeling like he wasn't in control of his own emotions

Nap time? Great! He sleeps more than you.. actually he might have a iron deficiency now that I think about it

Warm hands on belly at all times

Will knead at your belly to help soothe out any cramps

None of these men care about blood. It's just the pirate way.

Has his red wings. You know what I mean ;)

"Here, lemme warm you up. Sh sh don't cry, you aren't bothering me at all baby"

[hanasnx]

How do you think hayden would react to period sex? Your cramps are the worst they’ve been all cycle and you’re sensitive all over, pain meds aren’t helping and neither is a heating pad. You read somewhere online that sex can help. Orgasms, can help. Touching yourself isn’t cutting it, So you gently figure out a way to bring up the idea of him fucking you through the pain.

MINORS DNI 18+

truthfully, i think he went though that phase that boys go through where they think a period is unsafe and/or unsanitary. and then becoming a man who'd had plenty of actual relationships with real women taught him how to be normal about it. you may not be the first one to request period sex, but he wouldn't be the one to suggest it first. instead, he'd start out with the normal stuff. ibuprofen/motrin, ice pack, heating pad. he'd be especially tight-lipped and agreeable during your moodiness because that's the path of least resistance and he knows there's nothing personal about it.

he'd avoid babying you, unless you taught him otherwise. he regularly checks in with you, asks about how much water you've had, and if you need some food that he'll make for you.

but when you tell him about how orgasms can help, he's not skeptical because he doesn't believe you but because he doesn't want you to feel taken advantage of. he's not a stranger to period sex, but it's not something he seeks out, and this is the first he's heard that it helps.

so he's behind you, smoothing a big hand over your ass while you're folded over pillows. your poor pussy looks pitiful, spattered in blood and shed uterine lining. the flat of three of his fingers stroke gently against your cunt, and you suck in a breath as he distributes the moisture around. brows furrowed, focusing on your tense hole. "you're a little tight—"

"it's because of the cramps!" you insist over your shoulder in a defeated whine.

"i know, sugar, i know. let me work you open." taking his time in rolling those fingers across your clit, getting it used to being touched. in his mind, he still believes himself as an intrusive force in this situation. not to be condescending, or haughty, but he does his best to respect a menstrual cycle because he wouldn't understand having one himself. it's a sacred thing in his eyes, and introducing the touch of another, especially a man, even if it's your lover, makes him believe he's tainting an otherwise pure experience. but you asked for his help, and you're in control here, so he does what he can to help you. "are you sure you don't just want my fingers?"

"no, baby. i need you, please, it won't work if it's not you. my fingers didn't work, and yours'll feel different, but i just need dick right now." he winces at your crude words, but he understands your impatience to feel better. when you're loose enough, he introduces his tip, fisting the shaft and pushing his hips forward to feed it to your hole, swiping it through your slit. a groan leaves your lips, anticipating the stretch. so he advances, his head pushing through, and he watches your little toes curl from the delicious sting.

there's an ache that has yet to be satisfied, and your hands reach behind you to palm his hipbones, drawing him closer. he inclines towards you, sinking inch by inch into you, and the sensation of being filled helps you. that pain in your abdomen is dulled by his cock massaging your insides.

[healixhospitals24]

The Ultimate Guide To Power Foods For Diabetes Management: What To Eat And Why

Managing diabetes effectively requires a holistic approach that includes regular physical activity, medication (if prescribed), and, importantly, a carefully planned diet. For those navigating the complexities of diabetes, understanding which foods can aid in blood sugar control is paramount. This guide explores the ultimate power foods for diabetes management, highlighting what to eat and why these foods are beneficial.

What Are Power Foods?

Power foods for diabetes management are nutrient-dense foods that provide essential vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients with minimal calories. For individuals with diabetes, power foods can help manage blood sugar levels, promote heart health, and support overall well-being. Incorporating these diabetes power foods into your diet can significantly impact your health positively.

Top Power Foods for Diabetes Management

1. Leafy Greens

Leafy greens such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are diabetes power foods packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K. They are low in calories and carbohydrates, making them an excellent choice for maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Additionally, leafy greens are rich in antioxidants and can reduce inflammation, a common issue for people with diabetes.

2. Fatty Fish

Salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Heart disease is a major concern for individuals with diabetes, and consuming fatty fish can help reduce the risk. Omega-3s also help lower triglycerides and improve insulin sensitivity, making them crucial in a diabetes-friendly diet.

3. Nuts and Seeds

Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are excellent sources of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. These foods help control blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of glucose. Including nuts and seeds in your diabetes meal planning can also aid in weight management and reduce the risk of heart disease.

4. Berries

Berries, such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries, are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. These nutrient-rich foods for diabetes have a low glycemic index, which means they have a minimal impact on blood sugar levels. Berries also provide essential nutrients that can boost your immune system and protect against oxidative stress.

5. Whole Grains

Whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, barley, and oatmeal are excellent choices for those with diabetes. These foods are high in fiber, which helps regulate blood sugar levels and improve digestion. Whole grains also provide essential nutrients such as magnesium, which plays a role in insulin function and glucose control.

6. Legumes

Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are high in protein, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. These foods for blood sugar control have a low glycemic index and can help maintain stable blood sugar levels. Legumes are also a good source of iron, folate, and potassium, making them a valuable addition to a diabetes-friendly diet.

7. Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and probiotics. The protein content helps control blood sugar levels by slowing down the digestion process. Probiotics can improve gut health, which is important for overall health and can influence blood sugar regulation.

8. Avocados

Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and can improve insulin sensitivity. They also contain fiber and essential nutrients like potassium and magnesium. Incorporating avocados into your meals can help manage diabetes by promoting satiety and reducing blood sugar spikes.

9. Eggs

Eggs are a versatile and nutritious option for managing diabetes. They are high in protein and contain essential vitamins and minerals. Eating eggs can improve insulin sensitivity and provide sustained energy, making them a staple in a diabetes-friendly diet.

10. Cruciferous Vegetables

Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are excellent for diabetes management. They are low in calories and carbohydrates but high in fiber and vitamins. Cruciferous vegetables also contain antioxidants that help combat inflammation and support overall health.

Continue Reading: https://www.healixhospitals.com/blogs/the-ultimate-guide-to-power-foods-for-diabetes-management:-what-to-eat-and-why

[scarybabe]

You've always been a huge inspiration to my own gaining journey, but I had a question and forgive me if I'm wrong. I noticed your face and jawline look a little more defined even though you don't seem to have lost any weight. So my questions are: Did you have a procedure to reduce your double chin, and if you did, what did you have done and how much was it? My chin is a big source of insecurity around my gain, and I've considered a procedure, but I just thought I'd ask! Thanks for all the lovely content and keep it up! You're gorgeous!

I did actually lose a bit of weight I think- I talked about it in OF but at the beginning of April I had to temporarily drastically change my diet to help a blood pressure issue for a whole month. low sodium/low sugar/compression everything to help my blood flow and daily walks had the biggest effect because I wasn’t retaining as much fluids anymore in places that I would get swollen. All my clothes from when I was 300 still fit so I don’t think I lost a lot of weight from below my waist! You can’t really control where you lose weight from, I haven’t weighed myself to see how much since that wouldn’t be great for my mental health but it’s been about 3 weeks since I had to start the new regime and I can eat normally again now! Still gonna go light on the salty stuff when I can to ease back into it but I had some delicious food last night 🥰

If you did want to slim only your chin with losing no weight at all, I know there are some lymphatic drainage massages you can do and I know many plus size fashion models have had neck liposuction, there are also head wrap things that claim they can use light pressure to reduce your double chin as you sleep. I would suggest lowering your sodium too, but that will likely cause water weight loss. If I WAS weighing myself this month, that would probably have made me feel bad to see. Do whatever feels best and safest for you 🥰

Plus double chins are cute and hot! if I eat too much salty stuff by accident and the swelling in my lymphatic area comes back my chin will probably my look a lot bigger and I wouldn’t care either way 🌸

[archetypal-archivist]

Azul-Yutu Thoughts 0.3

As inspired by @yuri-is-online and their Future Yutu AU. Go read it, it's good.

The first time Yutu ever gets a chance to talk to Jade for real is after a full day of wandering campus looking for stories about overblot phantoms, monsters, and mages. As such, Yutu's understandably tired, especially since it's edging into proper night now, the clock above the bar ticking softly away as Jade wipes down the counter.

After summarily kicking Crewel out of Octavinelle with a snide reassurance that he'll 'behave,' Yutu was a little startled by how normal and unpersonalized their next few minutes of interaction were.

Do you have any allergies? No. Any strong dislikes? Uh, why? This is an establishment for food and drink, it'd be remiss if me not to feed you. Do I have to pay? Hm, no, not today. Alright... I- guess I don't like spicy things? Oh, also no carrots or celery. And nothing too chunky in my drink, I don't like smoothies! I suppose I can accommodate.

Yutu takes a moment to sit at the bar, spinning around once on the stool before stopping to look Jade up and down. He'd never heard of this person from Yuu, who'd struggled to recall his dad even on their best days. Who was this person to him? An uncle? An ally? Did Jade blame him or his parent for abandoning Azul, however unwillingly? Yutu scrutinizes Jade's appearance, looking for hints as to what his whole deal is.

The first thing that comes to mind is that Jade looks... Tired. No dark bags under his eyes, so he's sleeping, but there's a deliberateness to his movements that tells of trying not to shake, or perhaps of distraction. Jade also doesn't move from his spot much and is slow to rise when ducking below the counter to fish out ingredients, which is another point in the tired category, or perhaps the start of one that screams low blood sugar.

Hey, whatever you're making for me, make some for yourself too. Mm. I mean it. If you're stealing ingredients or whatever to do this, you may as well get something out of it too. Truly benevolent, aren't you? Very well then.

It doesn't take long for Jade and Yutu to have matching salads and glasses of water, which Yutu raises an eyebrow at. It's a struggle not to comment on how, for all that Jade is insisting on feeding him, this is kind of a cheapskate meal. Jade seems to read right through him though and explains that they're still waiting on the next round of supplies to come through; the gardens can supply vegetables and there's apples, canned goods, and nonperishables aplenty, but things like milk or eggs are much harder to come by.

And, Jade comments with a sharp-toothed grin that Yutu immediately clocks as a mer thing, alcohol is more profitable than ever. Not that you're of age, of course. Yutu debates the merits of commenting, figures discretion is the better part of valor (Jade seems too eager to hear his remarks and that screams fishy) and shuts up to eat his salad.

Jade takes his win with good grace and explains how he, Azul, and his- he hesitates for a moment- twin all went to school together. Octavinelle flourished under Azul's care as house warden and he and his brother helped him hang onto control, acting to smooth things out when things got... Rough. Yutu snorts and tries to hide it, snidely commenting that the trio sound like the mafia. Jade laughs a little too, slightly forced, and says that Yuu said the exact same thing when Azul explained their duties to them.

Yutu is surprised at this and asks if Yuu went to school with his father too, which Jade confirms, proceeding to explain their rather dramatic entrance into NRC and how Yuu came to agree to date Azul; something about an overly complicated meal, a broken microwave, and a promise about never going hungry again. All very romantic, Jade assures Yutu dryly, although a bit insufferable for him and his brother, who had to ensure Azul survived the pinning phase first.

Yutu immediately opens up about what little he knows of Azul and what Yuu had told him, hoping for confirmation, a solidification of what he knows. What Jade does instead is smirk and proceed to rip apart the honey-golden nostalgia and replace it with goofy tales of how his father was actually a bit of a dork.

Yutu had deliberately told Jade some of the sappier things he knew about Azul because he pinned Jade as being a tease and the man would likely contradict whatever spin he put on his dad. This, though? Yutu isn't sure what to do with this; he'd expected flaws or ways his father got angry or unreasonable, not 'flaws' and hidden affection. Azul... His dad was really loved, huh.

Yutu tries to stretch out his last few bites of salad, uncertain and trying not to show it. If Yuu loved his dad so much, if Jade teased but couldn't hide how much he missed him, if Crewel spoke of Azul's talents and intelligence so highly, then how should Yutu feel? All he has to go on is what other people tell him and he doesn't yet know if he wants to love Azul too, let alone if he will come to love the real Azul or the Azul people loved. Stories and real people are so rarely similar, after all.

Seeing Yutu get quieter and quieter, Jade figures that he's tired and politely starts urging Yutu to head to bed. Yutu agrees, hesitates, then asks if he can come talk to Jade again. Jade is a little surprised because he thought it was a given, then a little surprised at himself for so easily falling back into old habits. Just an hour or so in the presence of a boy who looks so much like his old friend, and he's ready to accommodate him. Ha, how foolish...

Jade keeps his thoughts behind his teeth and agrees with a smile, urging Yutu to drop by at least once a week as Jade works most evenings and on Sunday afternoons from 10 to 6. Yutu furrows his brow, pointing out that 10 is hardly in the afternoon, Jade croons about how Yutu must wake up so late in the day if he thinks 10 is in the morning, Yutu grumbles, Jade teases and urges Yutu to get to bed sooner or else noon may start looking like morning too.

Yutu decides to let Jade get the last laugh for now and heads out, leaving Jade to the silence of Octavinelle. He doesn't look back but if he were to do so, he'd see how Jade would look oddly diminished now that he's alone, hovering over the bar top like a specter as if he doesn't know what else to do with himself.

Jade stares after Yutu, gaze distant, before turning back to the dirty dishes on the counter. The salad plates are swept up easily enough but the water glasses- Jade pushes them so they're next to each other, identical in their emptiness. He stares for another moment, then places an empty purple coffee mug in front of the two glasses, making a neat trio. He returns to the sink to wash the dishes, the camera remains focused on the cups as Jade fades into the background, and the screen fades to black.

[healthyfitlifestyle09]

Which is the best foods for weight loss in united states ?

The best foods for weight loss in the United States combine nutritional value, portion control, and sustainable eating habits. Here are some attractive options:

Leafy Greens: Incorporate kale, spinach, and Swiss chard into your meals. They're low in calories but packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Lean Proteins: Opt for skinless poultry, lean cuts of beef or pork, tofu, and legumes. Protein helps you feel full and preserves muscle mass.

Fruits: Enjoy colorful fruits like berries, apples, and citrus. They're rich in antioxidants and fiber, making them satisfying and nutritious.

Whole Grains: Choose whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat bread. They're fiber-rich and provide lasting energy.

Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds are excellent sources of healthy fats and protein. They also keep you feeling full longer.

Fish: Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and can aid in weight loss.

Greek Yogurt: It's protein-packed and can be a creamy, satisfying snack or breakfast option.

Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are low in calories and high in fiber. They make great additions to meals.

Avocado: While calorie-dense, avocados provide healthy fats and fiber, helping control appetite.

Beans and Lentils: They're rich in protein and fiber, keeping you full and stabilizing blood sugar levels.

Water: Don't forget the importance of staying hydrated. Drinking water before meals can help control portion sizes.

Herbs and Spices: Flavor your dishes with herbs and spices instead of salt or high-calorie sauces.

Remember, the key to successful weight loss is not only about individual foods but also about overall dietary patterns and lifestyle choices. A balanced diet, portion control, regular physical activity, and consistency are essential for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight. Consult a healthcare professional or a registered dietitian for personalized guidance on your weight loss journey.

Read more helpful information about health & fitness :

[angryschnauzer]

I realised two months have gone by since i last updated you all, i'm not even sure if anyone is interested anymore. I know i haven't been on much, perhaps sporadically coming on and mindlessly reblogging Henry stuff just for a little escape, but its intermittent at best. I had hoped to be back to writing by now, but life is still a huge pile of shit.

I'm run ragged trying to pay the bills. My wedding decorations business is halfway between slow and dead; the cost of living crisis means weddings aren't really happening, and if they are most of the items i do people are making themselves. My side gig in ebay flipping is quiet too but at least its trickling by. I don't mention this much as people get a lot of abuse over 'thrift store flippers' (Charity Shop resellers here in the UK), but right now its what's keeping my family fed. I buy clothing for £1 from the stinky dregs bin in a charity shop, wash it, mend it, resell it for £4. I'm not making millions or even thousands. I'm lucky if i'm bringing in £150 a week which barely covers our weekly food shop. Its draining that when i do eventually mention this to my friends they immediately start moaning at me that i'm the one 'ruining' charity shops and why its pushing the prices up. But when i calmly tell them its that or i don't eat they go quiet. I'm not the one pushing a 2nd hand coat for £25 which was only £20 brand new which most high street charity shops are doing. Do i like doing this? No. Do i have to? Yes. Because i sure as ain't cute enough for onlyfans.

But the majority of my time over the last couple of months has been spent caring for our son. He's 8 and has type 1 diabetes, and since school started back in September one little shit in his class has spent every waking moment bullying him. This little shit has been stabbing my son with pencils, poking him in the kidneys with whatever he has to hand, laughing and sneering at him at every opportunity even when he's just walking past. Having the adrenaline and cortisol in my son's bloodstream affects how his insulin works, and he builds up an insulin resistance because of all the other hormones in his bloodstream. I've had so many meetings with the school, and have had to get the board of governors involved because when your 8 year old kid says quietly to you "It would be better if i wasn't alive as then *Little Shit* wouldn't be able to bully me" your heart breaks into pieces.

He needs my support more than anything, so every single other thing has been put by the wayside. And its tough. He acts out at home, messes around with his dinner because he feels he needs to be able to control something, but that in turn messes up insulin dosing so i'm spending half the night dealing with highs and lows for his blood sugars. I get at most 5 hours sleep a night.

I have no more energy left. I'm not eating, because i just can't stomach it. I'm 43 and hitting menopause, but my doctor doesn't want to know because "You just need to loose some weight" (don't get be started on fat bias from the NHS).

So i'm filling my time with volunteering at school so i can be 'around' for my Little Dude. He knows that if he's having an awful day, he will find me in the office sorting through paperwork for our next fundraiser. Its not what i want to be doing, but its what i need to be doing.

One day i hope to get back to my writing. I miss being creative and i hate that i have so many stories part written/published. As the months tick by i actually end up seeing stories written by others that have the same characters/plotlines. This is no-ones fault that two stories exist on the same synopsis, it would just seem that they and I have taken the same inspiration from media at some point. But it makes me scared that if i now publish a story i started 2 years ago, i'll be accused of stealing an idea. I don't know what to do. So i just leave my WIP folder abandoned.

For everyone that has stayed with me thank you. For those that have moved onto pastures new, i wish you well and hold no malice.

I do love you all

Mama Schnauz

x

[oliversrarebooks]

The Rare Bookseller Part 32: Oliver's New Life

Masterlist

September 1925

TW: Captivity, mind control

Oliver woke up slowly.

He was somewhere comfortable, extremely so, and he was deeply content to curl up on his side and wrap himself in silk sheets, dipping in and out of sleep. He spent a long time in that half-awake, dreamy state before finally waking up fully.

Oliver found himself in the middle of a huge, cloud-soft bed, surrounded by pillows and wrapped in fine sheets and blankets. Indirect sunlight was streaming through the cracks in the curtains, allowing him to see just enough of the room to remember where he was. 

Alexander's home. His bedroom, in Alexander's home.

The first day with his new Master.

Instinctively, his hand flew to his neck and felt around. There were no scars, no bandages, no soreness. Master hadn't taken his blood yet, and he felt an odd swirl of relief and disappointment. He had said that he would give Oliver time to settle, so it was still coming, no doubt. But the vague notion that perhaps his blood wasn't pleasing to Master... 

But no, that thought was quelled as soon as it troubled him. His Master wanted him. Oliver had felt it so clearly, and even now the thought filled him with comfort. He was wanted here.

With his mind calmed, he yawned and stretched, enjoying the comfortable bedding. He'd slept like a log, and from the ancient looking pendulum clock on the wall, he could see that it was now 3pm. He'd slept most of the night and day away, which he probably needed after all that upheaval in his life.

That upheaval was over now that he was finally in his Master's home. 

His stomach growled, an angry reminder that he hadn't really eaten anything since breakfast last night (he was still unsure what to call his meals now that he was mostly nocturnal, but that would have to do). Alexander did say he had free reign of the kitchen, so he'd best put that to good use. 

First, though, he stood up and went to the window, pushing the curtains open to reveal a sunny afternoon, the sun only just dipping below the buildings. He squinted and flinched away from the light, realizing that it was the first sun he'd seen since he'd been abducted. He hadn't even realize how he'd missed the warmth of sunlight.

His room overlooked an ordinary city street, with pedestrians milling by on the tree-lined sidewalks. He recognized it as the most wealthy part of downtown, an area where he didn't usually have much cause to visit. It wasn't all that far from his bookshop, a leisurely twenty minute walk at most.

How strange to think that he'd lived so close to a vampire lord's manor all those years. How strange to think that his former life was so close and yet separated by so much. How strange to think that just a few weeks ago, he had no idea any of this world existed.

His Master had apparently not erased his memories, just as he'd said, because Oliver was having no trouble recalling his bookshop or his former life. Who could say what other alterations Master had made while he was under? He felt so much calmer and more contented than he had the day before, so surely it was for his benefit.

He turned from the window and padded down the stairs. The house was deathly quiet, and he assumed that the other occupant was not yet awake. When he arrived in the kitchen, he opened the window there to get some more sunlight, hoping that it wouldn't disturb Master too much -- he didn't know how sunlight might affect him, but he guessed it wasn't pleasant. For now, it helped the kitchen to feel more cheerful and human while Oliver assessed the food situation.

There was the basket of fruit on the counter that he'd noticed yesterday, as well as a loaf of bread beside -- a good start. The pantry was sparse, but held a few ordinary staples, flour and sugar and salt and potatoes and carrots, as well as some canned vegetables and beans. The largest bounty was in the ice box: eggs, milk, cheese, butter, some paper packets from the butcher's that he'd have to open and identify later, perhaps when it was time to make dinner.

There were also a few glass bottles of what was unmistakably blood. He shuddered involuntarily at the sight. They were labeled "Moonlight Farm, Fancy Grade A". So there were places dedicated to farming what he could only assume was human blood. It made perfect sense -- how else would Alexander have kept himself alive without a thrall? --  but it was still repulsive. He didn't want to think about those humans in the blood farms, no doubt utterly mind wiped and treated like cattle.

Maybe Joe was there, maybe the waitress who had been in the cell next to Emily's. They'd had their minds erased, after all, and had been sold at auction. He felt guilty that he was safe and comfortable in a well-appointed kitchen deciding what to cook, while other innocent humans had probably been turned into little more than mindless dairy cows, tossed into pens and used for their blood for the rest of their miserable lives. It obviously wasn't his fault, and there wasn't anything he could have reasonably done about it, but it was upsetting all the same. The only thing that had stood between him and their fate was some intangible quality of his blood.

He'd feel better about everything once he ate, he was sure.

Since late afternoon was apparently now his breakfast time, he pulled out eggs and cheese, located a frying pan, and began to make an omelette. Starving as he was, he used four eggs, and once he was done making them, used the pan to toast some of the bread. He couldn't find any jam, but butter would do fine. An apple and a glass of milk completed his generous breakfast. Master said he'd have any groceries he needed, and the way he'd been treated in the auction house cells made it clear that vampires preferred their humans to be well fed, so there was no reason to hold back on eating his fill.

As he washed the dishes in the sink, he reflected that he wasn't just eating for himself now, but also eating to feed his new master. A strange thought.

He was still wearing the dress he'd arrived in from the auction house, and as eager as he was to return to the library, that luxurious bathroom was calling for him. Exiting the kitchen, he spared a look towards the front door.

Unlike the auction house, there were no vampire guards here to stop him. Alexander was likely still asleep upstairs. But the thought of even trying the door repulsed him, filling him with sick dread. As if he wanted to betray his new Master by leaving without permission!

Oliver turned and headed up the stairs to his bedroom, looking in the wardrobe. As promised, there was an assortment of outfits there -- more than he had previously owned. There were various frocks with wide necks, but also button-down shirts and slacks, a few casual suits, and an expensive-looking lined wool coat paired with a cheerful red scarf. This, at least, served as proof that Master intended to take him out of the confines of the manor sometimes. The nearby drawers held pajamas and soft cotton underthings. Satisfied at the selection of clothing, he took a cotton robe and headed for the bathroom.

He was clean enough, since he'd been allowed regular bathing at the auction house and in Miss Lily's care, but a nice hot bath was just what he needed to wash away any remnants of anxiety. He turned on the hot water and dumped in a generous helping of floral-scented soap flakes, making the bathroom smell heavenly.

Sinking in the warm water up to his shoulders was like a dream. And he had nowhere to be. He could relax in the bath as long as he felt like. And once he had his fill of that, he could head down to the library and read to his heart's content.

He realized that the foreign feeling washing over him was relief.

He'd spent so much of his life anxious and afraid, quietly terrified of not living up to a father who was long since dead. He used all of his time trying to keep his beloved bookstore afloat, fretting about money and maintenance and pleasing every patron who walked through the door. Second guessing every decision, watching from afar as others found love and excitement.

And now none of that mattered, because he'd found his place, hadn't he? Or rather, his place had found him, and it was bringing up a deep, buried longing to be cared for that he didn't even realize he had. His Master would take care of him and quiet his mind, and all he had to do was offer up his loyalty and his blood. A small price to pay, wasn't it?

He made sure his neck was extra clean, and used some of the sweet-smelling lotion that had been left in a basket for him. He wanted to please.

He could do this. He could be enticing to his master. And he'd be rewarded.

Returning to his bedroom, he slipped on a soft flannel frock, choosing a garment that would keep his neck exposed with no hesitation. He then padded downstairs to enter the library and await his Master waking.

He'd barely gotten a chance to look at the library yesterday, and Oliver was stunned all over again at the amount of books. He decided to occupy himself just browsing the shelves, not picking any one book to read yet. There would no doubt be plenty of time, and for now, he was fascinated by the many different subjects on display. 

There were shelves of ordinary fiction books, of course, albeit stocked with antique and rare editions of classics that would have filled Oliver with envy if he didn't have full access to them himself now. Near the shelves of books he recognized, there was another large section that he realized must consist of fiction written by vampires, the titles and authors all unknown to him. The preoccupation with blood above all other things was apparent just by reading the titles. Did the need for blood consume them so much? He supposed it must, if they were willing to pay such vast sums for thralls.

The section on vampire history that he had perused before was flanked by sections covering the histories of witches, werewolves, vampire hunters, faefolk, and a particularly extensive collection of books on merfolk. There was surprisingly little human history, and nothing more recent than the turn of the century. Vampires, perhaps, didn't concern themselves that much with human history.

He felt himself strangely drawn to a particular shelf further towards the back of the library. Half the books were bound in richly colored leather, embossed with gold and silver and embedded with jewels, and the other half were so tattered and worn that Oliver wouldn't dare try to pick them up. He flipped through one, and realized with surprise what they were. Spellbooks. Magic. And no reason to doubt now that it was real.

The sound of footsteps behind him startled him out of his reverie. "Hey. Evening."

He whipped around to see his Master there, hair and shirt disheveled, sleepy-eyed but looking at Oliver as though he were the only thing he had ever desired. A smile spread slowly across Alexander's face, and Oliver felt like his heart might stop.

Part 31 >> Masterlist >> Part 33

Role Reversal AU Part One

Next time, Oliver finally gets bitten.

Extras: Emily's Crayons || Fitz in the Snow || Fitz's Volunteer Part One

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