#Best organic makeup

[rhineposting]

life still looks like shit for me, so have a casual rhinedottir from a magma canvas additional thoughts under cut

In my mind, Rhinedottir does dress pretty casually when she's not in risk of being seen by unauthorized people (literally anyone except Alice), because appearances are a big part of the persona she dons while in public, especially when interacting with the rest of the court (that and I think she has some minor narcissism going on but that's a different can of worms to open later.)

[beeholyshit]

SORRY I WASNT VERY CREATIVE WITH THIS ONE </3

YOU DON'T HAVE TO APOLOGIZE MIWOOOOOOOO. I don't blame you for not recognizing the last ones bc I've barely said anything about them, LIKE THE COWBOY BEBOP DOESN'T EVEN HAVE A NAME YET AND I'VE NEVER POSTED ABOUT HER

I LOVE HOW YOU CATEGORIZED RUDY AND VALENTINE JSJAHSHA THAT'S SO CUUUUTE

I saw Vermelho on the first one and for a second I was like "wait wh- OH RIGHT" KDJSJSJSHWJAJW

[jjbrothers]

"Top 10 Bestselling Makeup Products in Pakistan for 2024: Must-Haves for Every Beauty Enthusiast"

The beauty industry in Pakistan has witnessed significant growth in recent years, with makeup enthusiasts continuously exploring new trends and products. As 2024 progresses, the demand for top-quality makeup items has skyrocketed, particularly as consumers increasingly purchase makeup products online in Pakistan. With a wide array of international and local brands catering to the diverse preferences of the Pakistani audience, certain products have stood out as bestsellers this year. Here’s a look at the must-have makeup items dominating the beauty scene in 2024.

1. Foundations with Flawless Coverage

Achieving a flawless complexion remains a top priority for many makeup users. In 2024, high-performing foundations offering long-lasting wear and a natural finish have been immensely popular. Products like Maybelline Fit Me Foundation and NARS Radiant Longwear Foundation have secured top spots on the bestseller list. These foundations are favored for their wide range of shades, perfect for the diverse skin tones in Pakistan, and their ability to provide excellent coverage without feeling heavy.

2. Bold and Matte Lipsticks

Matte lipsticks continue to be a favorite among Pakistani women, especially for their ability to add a bold, sophisticated touch to any look. The Huda Beauty Power Bullet Matte Lipsticks and MAC Retro Matte Lipsticks are two of the most sought-after products in this category. Their intense pigment, long-lasting formula, and variety of shades—ranging from bold reds to subtle nudes—make them a staple in makeup kits across the country.

3. Smudge-Proof Eyeliners

A sharp and defined eyeliner is essential for completing any eye makeup look, and in 2024, smudge-proof eyeliners have become indispensable. The Maybelline Hyper Easy Liquid Liner and L'Oréal Paris Infallible Gel Crayon Eyeliner have become bestsellers due to their precision, smooth application, and long-lasting wear, making them perfect for everyday use, as well as special occasions.

4. Highlighters for a Radiant Glow

A radiant glow is a must for any makeup look, and the popularity of highlighters reflects this trend. Products like Fenty Beauty Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter and Becca Shimmering Skin Perfector are flying off the shelves in Pakistan. These highlighters offer an unparalleled glow that enhances facial features and complements the natural beauty of Pakistani skin tones.

5. Waterproof Mascaras

Waterproof mascaras are another essential in every makeup lover's collection, and 2024 has seen a spike in the demand for mascaras that volumize and lengthen lashes while staying intact throughout the day. Maybelline’s Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara and Benefit Cosmetics' They're Real! Lengthening Mascara are the top choices this year for their ability to create dramatic lashes without smudging or flaking.

6. Lightweight Concealers

In the busy lifestyles of many Pakistani women, concealers that are easy to apply and provide excellent coverage have become a necessity. The Tarte Shape Tape Concealer and L.A. Girl Pro Conceal HD remain top-selling products, appreciated for their creamy formulas and ability to hide blemishes, dark circles, and uneven skin tones effortlessly.

7. Setting Sprays for All-Day Wear

Given the climate in Pakistan, setting sprays are crucial for keeping makeup intact throughout the day. The Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray and MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ have been top sellers in 2024. These sprays not only help makeup last longer but also provide a refreshing, dewy finish.

8. Eyeshadow Palettes with Versatile Shades

Eyeshadow palettes that offer a mix of vibrant and neutral shades are in high demand this year. The Huda Beauty Nude Eyeshadow Palette and Morphe 35O Nature Glow Eyeshadow Palette are especially popular for their highly pigmented colors and blendable textures. These palettes cater to both everyday looks and glamorous evening makeup, making them versatile and essential in any makeup collection.

9. Blushes for a Natural Flush

A soft flush of color on the cheeks can brighten up the complexion, and blushes are among the most loved products in 2024. NARS Blush in Orgasm and Milani Baked Blush are leading the blush category for their natural finishes and universally flattering shades.

10. Primers for a Smooth Base

Creating a smooth base for makeup is key to ensuring long-lasting wear, especially in Pakistan's humid climate. Smashbox Photo Finish Primer and Benefit POREfessional Face Primer are popular choices this year for their ability to minimize pores, control oil, and provide a flawless base for makeup application.

Conclusion

As the makeup industry in Pakistan continues to thrive, the trend of purchasing makeup products online in Pakistan has made it easier for consumers to access the latest and best-selling beauty items. From foundation to lipsticks, the top makeup products in 2024 reflect the preferences of a diverse and beauty-conscious audience, offering both quality and innovation. Whether you're a beauty enthusiast looking to update your makeup collection or a newcomer seeking the basics, these bestselling products are sure to elevate your beauty game.

[justposting1]

I Discovered the BEST Businesses to Start in 2024

Starting a business can seem daunting, especially if it’s your first one. You might look around and think all the best niches are already taken, wondering where to even begin. But the truth is, opportunities are abundant, and there are countless creative, lucrative business ideas that don’t require huge upfront investments. Whether you’re looking to dive into AI and tech, education,…

[fashionandbeautybyorganic]

How to Improve Your Beauty Naturally

Introduction Natural beauty isn't about following fleeting trends or using costly products. It’s an art of embracing your unique features, harnessing nature's gifts, and fostering well-being inside and out. This guide explores thoughtful, natural ways to enhance your beauty without harsh chemicals or artificial means.

The Importance of Natural Beauty 2.1 Embracing Authenticity Authentic beauty is timeless. It radiates confidence, self-love, and appreciation for one’s unique appearance. Instead of masking imperfections, natural beauty focuses on nurturing your skin, hair, and body, allowing your true self to shine.

you can also try these Recipes Homemade Organic Cosmetics and Beauty Recipes eBook EBooks

2.2 The Long-term Benefits of Natural Care Natural care isn’t a quick fix, but it yields lasting results. Harsh chemicals can provide instant effects, but often at the cost of long-term skin and hair health. By choosing natural methods, you invest in the future of your skin and overall well-being, minimizing the risk of irritations or allergies.

Nourishing Your Skin from Within 3.1 Hydration: The Foundation of Healthy Skin Water is essential. It flushes toxins, keeps your skin hydrated, and maintains elasticity. Drinking at least eight glasses of water a day helps you achieve a dewy, plump complexion. Adding electrolytes and hydrating foods like cucumbers and melons can further boost your hydration levels.

you can also try these Recipes Homemade Organic Cosmetics and Beauty Recipes eBook EBooks

3.2 Eating for Radiance: Foods that Glow Your skin reflects your diet. Nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, berries, and nuts are packed with antioxidants and vitamins like A, C, and E. These foods help combat oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, and promote cellular regeneration, giving you radiant, youthful skin.

Natural Skincare Regimens 4.1 The Power of Cleansing with Natural Oils Oil cleansing may sound counterintuitive, but using oils like jojoba or argan can dissolve makeup, dirt, and excess sebum without stripping your skin. This method balances oil production, leaving your skin clean but not dry.

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4.2 Exfoliation: Nature’s Way to Renew Skin Exfoliating with natural ingredients like ground oats or sugar removes dead skin cells, revealing a smoother surface underneath. Regular exfoliation encourages cell turnover, brightening your complexion and reducing the appearance of fine lines and blemishes.

4.3 Moisturization without Chemicals: The Benefits of Plant-based Oils Plant-based oils like rosehip, almond, and avocado penetrate deeply into the skin, providing hydration, antioxidants, and vitamins. These oils not only lock in moisture but also repair damaged skin and promote healing, reducing scars and uneven pigmentation.

4.4 Face Masks: Harnessing the Potency of Natural Ingredients Ingredients like honey, turmeric, and aloe vera have been used for centuries in face masks to hydrate, reduce redness, and clarify the skin. These natural ingredients are rich in healing properties that nourish and rejuvenate the skin, making them an integral part of a natural beauty regimen.

The Role of Sleep in Beauty 5.1 Beauty Sleep: How Rest Repairs and Revives Sleep is crucial for cellular repair. During rest, your body replenishes collagen, the protein that keeps skin firm and smooth. A lack of sleep can lead to dull skin, dark circles, and even fine lines. A consistent sleep schedule ensures you wake up refreshed and glowing.

5.2 Natural Sleep Aids to Maximize Rest Herbs like lavender, chamomile, and valerian root can help calm the mind and body, promoting deep, restful sleep. Incorporating these natural sleep aids into your routine can improve sleep quality, which in turn enhances your skin and overall beauty.

Hair Care Without Harmful Chemicals 6.1 Hydrating and Strengthening Hair with Natural Oils Oils like coconut, argan, and castor oil are excellent for strengthening and moisturizing hair. They seal in moisture, prevent split ends, and promote growth, leaving your hair shiny and healthy.

you can also try these Recipes Homemade Organic Cosmetics and Beauty Recipes eBook EBooks

6.2 The Benefits of Herbal Rinses for Hair Health Herbal rinses made from rosemary, sage, or chamomile can enhance hair's shine, manageability, and overall health. These herbs are known for their anti-inflammatory and stimulating properties, promoting scalp health and hair growth.

6.3 Nourishing Hair from the Inside: Key Nutrients for Healthy Locks Hair needs nutrients like biotin, omega-3 fatty acids, and zinc to grow strong and healthy. Incorporating foods like salmon, eggs, and seeds into your diet provides these vital nutrients, ensuring your hair stays thick, vibrant, and full of life.

Exercise for Natural Beauty Enhancement 7.1 The Glow That Comes with Regular Physical Activity Exercise increases blood circulation, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to your skin. This boost in circulation creates a natural glow, giving your skin a rosy, youthful appearance.

7.2 Yoga and Its Impact on Natural Beauty Yoga not only strengthens the body but also reduces stress and improves circulation, both of which are critical for maintaining healthy skin. Certain poses, like inversions, increase blood flow to the face, enhancing your natural glow.

Stress Management and Its Effect on Appearance 8.1 How Stress Shows on Your Skin Stress can wreak havoc on your skin, causing breakouts, dullness, and even premature aging. Managing stress is key to maintaining a clear complexion.

8.2 Simple, Natural Stress-Relief Practices Practices like deep breathing, mindfulness, and nature walks can significantly reduce stress. These natural techniques not only improve your mental well-being but also reflect positively on your skin and overall appearance.

Importance of Sun Protection 9.1 Safeguarding Skin from UV Damage Naturally Sun damage is one of the leading causes of premature aging. Wearing hats, seeking shade, and applying natural sunblock with zinc oxide are essential practices to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

9.2 Natural Sunscreens: What to Look For Look for sunscreens that use mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These natural alternatives provide effective protection without the chemical load found in conventional sunscreens.

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Holistic Oral Care 10.1 Natural Teeth Whitening Methods Brightening your smile can be achieved naturally with ingredients like activated charcoal, baking soda, and coconut oil pulling. These methods gently remove stains without damaging your enamel.

10.2 Keeping Gums Healthy Through Natural Products Natural mouthwashes containing ingredients like tea tree oil and peppermint are antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, supporting gum health and fresh breath without alcohol or harsh chemicals.

The Power of Herbal Remedies 11.1 Adaptogens: Balancing Body and Beauty Adaptogens like ashwagandha and rhodiola help your body adapt to stress and maintain hormonal balance, which is crucial for clear skin and healthy hair. These herbs offer a holistic way to balance inner wellness with external beauty.

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11.2 Herbal Teas for Skin, Hair, and Well-being Drinking herbal teas like green tea, rooibos, or nettle provides antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support skin hydration, hair growth, and overall vitality.

Mental Well-being and Beauty 12.1 Positive Thinking and Its Reflection on Your Face Your thoughts influence your appearance. Positive thinking can reduce stress-induced skin problems, promote relaxation, and give you a more radiant, youthful look.

12.2 Meditation’s Role in Enhancing Your Inner Glow Regular meditation helps calm the mind, reduce cortisol levels, and improve sleep quality, all of which contribute to better skin and a more balanced, glowing appearance.

Natural Fragrances for an Alluring Presence 13.1 The Science of Natural Perfumes Natural perfumes, made from essential oils like sandalwood, jasmine, or lavender, are not only free of synthetic chemicals but also have therapeutic properties that calm the mind and enhance mood.

13.2 How Scent Influences Perception of Beauty The scent you wear can alter how people perceive you. Natural fragrances have a subtlety and depth that synthetic ones lack, creating an aura of elegance and enhancing your overall beauty.

Avoiding Toxins in Everyday Products 14.1 Identifying Harmful Ingredients in Conventional Beauty Products Many conventional beauty products contain harmful ingredients like parabens, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances, which can disrupt hormones and irritate the skin. Reading labels and choosing toxin-free alternatives is essential for long-term beauty.

14.2 Simple Alternatives for a Toxin-Free Routine Swap out chemical-laden products with natural alternatives like shea butter, apple cider vinegar, and witch hazel. These ingredients are gentle yet effective, promoting healthier skin, hair, and body.

you can also try these Recipes Homemade Organic Cosmetics and Beauty Recipes eBook EBooks

Conclusion: The Timeless Appeal of Natural Beauty Natural beauty is more than just skin deep; it’s a reflection of your inner health and well-being. By embracing natural practices, you invest in long-term beauty that radiates from within, offering a more authentic, timeless glow.

DISCLAIMER

There are an affiliate link of a best product in this article which may make some profit for me

[v1i2s3h4a5l6floral]

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[starlightartemis]

well, today's physics exams are done. we'll get 'em next time boys

[two-calicos-in-a-trenchcoat]

Im researching pitbull coat colors cuz the different ways different coat colors come about and present in cats and dogs is fascinating (clearly, considering how much I geek out about calico cats)

And apparently chewby had some rare puppies

(This website didnt specifically say that blue brindles are rare but other places im looking do)

Like I knew boosie had an interesting coat but I didnt realize precious (a blue fawn) was also not common

Also according to this boosie is technically a reverse blue brindle cuz blue is his primary color (he just looked blue as a puppy and developed brindling as he aged)

[onecosmetics]

 Discover Your True Charm with the Help of the Finest All-Natural Makeup 

 In addition to making you look more beautiful, natural beauty products typically contain nourishing ingredients like botanical extracts, vitamins, and minerals that are good for your skin. You should look for products that have substances such as aloe vera, chamomile, and green tea. These compounds help to calm and renew your skin.

[productivefairy]

Your guide to REAL selfcare

If you go on any social media and type "selfcare", all you recieve is pretty girls doing extravegant skincare, dior makeup and all. But the problem is everyone does the same thing and things just cant work same for everyone. Also, It doesnt feels authentic rather it feels like consumerism. So, I am gonna tell what to do so you feel the best.

Knowing yourself:-

You can only do yourself a favour if you know yourself and the best way to do that is JOURNAL.

If you are new to it, then you can search journal prompt ideas on pinterest and make that a part of your routine. It helps so much.

Do shadow work. Go on pinterest and do the same thing.

Dont be ashamed of yourself, rather accept yourself and change for the better. When you'll journal then you will get to know tons of good and bad things about you but our brain loves to focus on negative things so u might get stuck on that.

Record your likes and dislikes. Which books you loved, which dramas you adore, which food makes you comfy and which movies you wasted your time on. Record these things, this is just so fun and helpful when you feel "bored" or sad.

Being Mindful:-

Most of the time, the problem is not that big but our thoughts just traps us and we feel that problem is bigger than it might so take a step back and try to not overthink about past or future.

I know this is easier said than done but meditating helps a lot with mindfulness.

When you watch a movie or drama or even ytube video then just do that. Dont scroll reddit reading the "discussion" thread of the episode or try to find instrumentals on spotify for reading books. Just do one thing at once.

Dont multitask. Just take a task and then focus on that. (This might not work for neurodivergent people.)

Do 5,4,3,2,1 grounding technique. Identify

5 things you can see 4 things you can feel 3 things you can hear 2 things you can smell 1 thing you can taste.

Cut negative people off

This is so hard because you feel mean for doing this but once you cutoff toxic people who just drags other people down and all they talk is negativity then your life become so much better.

Cut off all the negative content you watch and limit the time you spend on social media.

Do your future self a favour

This is truly the best selfcare.

Study hard cause' your future self will thank you for letting her be the top student

Learn some skills. Read those books. Watch that documentry. Do things that will make your future self proud.

Some selfcare ideas

Organizing and planning

excercise or take a walk.

Reading books.

Cleaning your room

Watching fun movies

Studying about yourself. Knowing what products suits your skin and your hair. What color brighten you and what makes you look dull. What haircut looks good on your face and what clothes flatters on your body.

Get your nails done.

Listen to your fav album while painting, baking, or gardening.

Do your hobby without feeling presurrized. No you dont need to read 50 books a year, chill out and enjoy while doing it.

Dairy writing. Its so fun to read what your day looked like on a random tuesday after 2-3 years.

Explore new things in your hometown. Maybe there is a new cafe that opened 2 weeks ago or there is a hiking trail you are not aware of? its always fun to do that.

[forcenewz]

Top 100+ Trending Beauty Hashtags For 2023 & 2024

Hashtags are important for your social media post and your beauty business ranking. When you use perfect beauty hashtags for your post it's key to gaining more people in your post. Here forcenewz share the best beauty tips hashtags, cosmetics hashtags, hair hashtags, Korean skincare hashtags, natural makeup hashtags, and more!

[goodnessofnaturein]

organic cosmetic manufacturers private label | best private label makeup manufacturers | low moq private label skincare | private label organic skin care products

organic cosmetic manufacturers private label | best private label makeup manufacturers | low moq private label skincare | private label organic skin care products

Goodness of Nature is a renowned company that specializes in creating organic cosmetic products. As one of the best private label makeup manufacturers in the industry, they provide top-quality products for a wide range of clients. With a commitment to natural and sustainable ingredients, their private label organic skin care products are the perfect solution for anyone who wants to achieve healthy, glowing skin.

One of the key advantages of working with Goodness of Nature is their low minimum order quantity (MOQ) for private label skincare. This means that clients can easily order smaller quantities of their products, making it easier for smaller businesses or start-ups to get started with their own line of organic cosmetics. The company's focus on organic ingredients ensures that all products are free from harsh chemicals that can harm the skin or cause allergic reactions.

Goodness of Nature is dedicated to producing high-quality private label organic skin care products that not only nourish the skin but also provide visible results. Their products are formulated with the highest quality natural ingredients that are carefully chosen for their beneficial properties. They ensure that every product is tested and approved to ensure they meet the high standards their clients expect.

As one of the best private label makeup manufacturers in the industry, Goodness of Nature offers a wide range of products to choose from, including cleansers, toners, serums, moisturizers, and more. They also offer a variety of cosmetic products such as lip balms, makeup removers, and face masks. Their products are designed to work together to provide a complete skincare routine that delivers visible results and a beautiful complexion.

Goodness of Nature is also committed to sustainability and eco-friendliness. They use only the best natural and organic ingredients that are sourced from sustainable farms and suppliers. Their products are packaged in environmentally friendly materials, and they make every effort to reduce waste and minimize their impact on the environment.

In conclusion, Goodness of Nature is one of the best private label cosmetic manufacturers in the industry, providing high-quality organic skincare products for a wide range of clients. With their low MOQ, clients can easily get started with their own line of organic cosmetics, and with their focus on natural ingredients and sustainability, they provide a solution that is not only good for the skin but also for the planet.

[reilemon]

🫧Love Don't Be Shy🫧

♡︎ pairing: Rafayel x fem!reader

｡°⚠︎°｡MINORS DNI (18+ ONLY)｡°⚠︎°｡

♡︎cw:unprotected sex (as always), there's only one bed, sex toys, pulling out

♡︎word count: 2.9k

♡︎synopsis: Rafayel finds your mini "neck massager" while going through your makeup bag.

♡︎a/n: I hope you guys like how I wrote Rafayel.

♡︎ special thanks to my beta reader ♡︎@its-de♡︎ for reading and helping me with this

banner by @cafekitsune

A defeated sigh leaves your lips. You have to share the bed with your friend (employee?) Rafayel. You just nod when Rafayel checks with you if it's okay, and of course you agree because you don't want to go around searching for another hotel.

The last time you had to share a room, and the bed, you barely got any sleep as he was tossing and turning all night, stealing the duvet in consequence. You couldn't be too mad at him as you know how messed up his sleep schedule is. Also, he was so sweet for remembering your comment how you wished to see a certain spot at that place.

This time is no different; he organized this little trip for you to make good use of your vacation days. He researched all the restaurants that you'd like, shops that he'd like, fun and interesting places to visit, and always takes the best seats in the airplane. But he always forgets to book two rooms in advance!

It's not that bad, you tell yourself. You're very comfortable around Rafayel; he makes you feel safe and he adores spending time with you. It's just that you have your own night routine. And you can't do it with him in the same room.

Oh well, the vacation will fly by quickly.

Even with this little inconvenience, you wish it won't. Not because you don't want to get back to work, but because you also adore spending time with him. And lately, with every meeting you hope to become more than just friends (more than just an artist and his bodyguard).

⋆ ˚｡⋆꒰ა 🪼 ໒꒱⋆ ˚｡⋆

After unpacking Rafayel and you go outside to grab a quick bite at the city centre. Of course that turns into an impromptu shopping spree because the two of you stumbled upon a vintage flea market.

You drag your feet as Rafayel almost skips next to you, bags with little trinkets in his hands. It's a beautiful summer afternoon, with a refreshing breeze. You'd enjoy it more if there weren't so many people around.

He glances at your 'energetic' walk. "C'mon Miss Bodyguard, we had a good time there!"

You chuckle. "Sure, if you can call 'talking you out of buying everything you see' a good time."

"But everything was so beautiful!"

"Yes, but think of the luggage!"

He shifts his bags to one hand and offers you the free one with a soft smile. "Give me your hand. I don't want to get lost."

He says that, but he's the one leading you through the crowd.

⋆ ˚｡⋆꒰ა 🪼 ໒꒱⋆ ˚｡⋆

You had to take a little nap after coming back to your room, because Rafayel had more things planned for this evening, and you needed the energy. You wanted to look and feel good because you actually looked forward to it. You might've even bought some new outfits that you thought he'd like, even though he gives you compliments no matter how much effort you put into your appearance.

While you were asleep, Rafayel took a long shower.

When you awoke, you found him in your room with nothing but a towel wrapped around his hips.

You blush and avert your gaze, opting to just not comment on it. "Are you at least wearing underwear?" You commented on it.

He looks down, like he forgot about his state of almost-undress. "I do. Wanna check?" His hand resting on the towel knot.

Your hand immediately shoots up to cover your view of whatever he's about to show you. "It's fine! I just didn't expect this to be the first thing I see after a nap!"

He laughs and strolls towards the closet. "You saw me in a bathing suit plenty of times. This towel covers more."

You can't help but sneak a peek at his toned back while he's picking out an outfit. For someone who claims to hate working out, he's more than fit. You can clearly see the way his muscles are carved under his pale still damp skin and the way they flex as he moves. As he turns around, you can’t help but crave to graze your hand over his defined abs and those veins leading down to -

"Like what you see?"

Caught red handed, you snap your head in the opposite direction, your face burning with embarrassment.

"I'll go take a shower." You mumble as you snatch your underwear and a nightdress from a drawer and escape to the bathroom, blushing even more as you catch Rafayel's mischievous laugh.

⋆ ˚｡⋆꒰ა 🪼 ໒꒱⋆ ˚｡⋆

Refreshed, and not at all embarrassed anymore, you emerge from the bathroom to get your makeup bag. You don't know whether to put the outfit on before the makeup, or the other way around...

Your brain short circuits when your eyes land on Rafayel holding your makeup bag in one hand - and your mini vibrator in the other.

He holds it up and studies it "Is this like a mini neck massager?"

You're frozen in place. Your body is discovering new levels of embarrassment.

Hearing nothing from you, his attention shifts to your figure. You don't register the way his eyes admire you in your little nightdress. "Well?" He presses the little button and the little buzzing sound hits your ears like crashing waves of sweat hitting your body.

He's teasing you. He has got to be teasing you. Like he always is. There's no way he thinks this is for his neck!

"Give it back." You croak, your throat dry.

"Why? You don't want to show me how to use it?" He's really going through with this little bit.

"Why were you even going through my makeup bag?"

He explains how he forgot to pack some cream and wanted to borrow it from you, or something like that, you barely listened because he was not letting go of the little bullet vibrator. He's put down the makeup bag, but not the toy!

The buzzing gets stronger as Rafayel's finger presses the button multiple times. "So, which setting is the best?"

He flinches as you basically hurl yourself towards him to take back what's yours. He holds it in the air, away from your reach.

"What's up with you?" his eyebrows knot, cheeks lightly red at the close proximity.

"Give it back!"

Finding your frustration confusing but at the same time cute and amusing, he continues to keep it out of your reach, letting you chase him around the room.

"Nuh - uh!" he laughs and turns to you, only for his face to be met with a white fluffy pillow.

You smacked him across the face, not too hard of course; you're still his body guard. You earn a little 'hey!' with a flushed face and to defend himself, he puts the toy in his pocket and grabs his own pillow. You didn't even notice how good his outfit looked.

The two of you end up in a brief pillow fight - mostly him taking hits while you managed to dodge most of them. But then Rafayel swiftly snatches your pillow, and pins you down on the bed, holding your wrists in his hand and resting his knees on the bed.

He asks, out of breath "Is it not a neck massager?" While you were in a pillow fight he caught on how red your face is and how that shape doesn't seem like it's for the neck.

You struggle under him, aware of how your nightdress lifted under the impact, and how your breasts are on the verge of spilling out. A small whine leaves your lips in frustration as he's so much stronger than you.

"Yes! It's my vibrator, okay?" you can't meet his gaze. You're sure you look so damn pathetic right now.

But you don't see the delight in Rafayel's eyes as he takes in your cute flushed pouting face. He can't help but take a peek of your figure under him, the way your tits are barely covered, the hem of your dress lifted to show off your plush thighs pressed together.

He releases his hold on you and sits back, still straddling you. "Is that why you were upset over one room? You could've just told me and I would've taken a walk or something. Maybe even get you a snack to replenish your energy."

You could not be more mortified. Your eyes are still fixed somewhere to the side and your lips don't move.

His fingers softly hold your chin and you muster the courage to look him in the eyes. You notice how messy his curls are. "There's nothing to be ashamed of." He reassures you with a soft smile, and hands you over the wretched thing.

And you loved that about Rafayel - he knew when to stop teasing and when it's time to give you reassurance.

Still, you needed your little revenge.

It doesn't matter that he's stronger than you, you still have your hunter skills, and in a blink of an eye, you switch positions, straddling his lap.

He opens his mouth to make some dirty joke but only a yelp gets out when you suddenly press the buzzing toy on his side while locking his wrists with your hand.

He pleads for mercy as you continue to run the vibrator on second to highest setting all over his torso.

A blush creeps up on your cheeks, and heat pools between your legs as his whimpers and gasps keep leaving his plump lips and his body squirms under you, his crotch grazing your bottom.

Flustered and out of breath, Rafayel had enough of the torture and pins you down again - pressing you in the same position you had him in, but with his knee so dangerously close to your clothed heat.

"You're being cruel, kitten." he breathes, his tone a little too calm for your liking.

He takes the toy from you and starts sliding it down the middle of your belly, the contact making you squirm and laugh a little. "I was being supportive here and you go and start torturing me."

"I was embarrassed!" you scream between laughs and pants.

He complains in his playful manner about how you attacked him while he was so confused, you can barely hear him over your involuntarily laughs. In your squirms and attempts to break free, your core grinds more than once against his knee and upper thigh.

And maybe he's inching his knee closer to you.

You open your eyes when you don't feel the tickles anymore. You're met with his soft hooded eyes.

"I want to make it up to you, darling."

He studies your face as his hand moves up and a gasp leaves your lips as it lightly grazes the underside of your breast over with the vibrating toy.

He repeats the same motion on the other breast. "Do you want me to stop?"

You sheepishly shake your head.

The grip on your wrists loosens, but you let him hold you down.

Finally, he gives attention to your already pebbled nipples, carefully rubbing circles around them. His eyes take in your flushed face - beautiful lips parted as you pant underneath him, eyes veiled with lust and desperation for more, sensitive nipples poking through the thin fabric of your nightdress.

Your panties are damp with the attention on your nipples and core grinding against his knee. And with Rafayel on top of you, with his cheeks flushed, messy hair and half lidded eyes gazing at you with adoration, you crave more.

He doesn't need to read your thoughts to know what you need. Your hips are desperately pressing against him, soaked panties leaving a wet patch on his pants.

A playful smirk stretches his lips, but he fights the urge to tease you. Instead, his hand trails down, avoiding your tummy this time, and presses the toy on your inner thigh, earning a jolt from your legs and a whimper from your lips. With his slender fingers, he lifts up the hem of your dress, exposing your panties.

You feel his knee move back, but still touching your clothed heat. Pressing the button for the lowest setting, he places the vibrating tip of the toy right between your folds, the familiar sensation of the vibrator making you moan. Only it's different now, because Rafayel is the one pressing it against you, the one making you feel so good, which makes you cream, your heart beating against your chest, your face and chest burning with need and desire.

With more confidence, Rafayel starts pressing and slowly rubbing your sensitive bud. "You like that princess? Does it feel good?"

You frantically nod, your pussy already throbbing with an impending orgasm. "Just like that!" You manage to breathe out.

His cock is painfully hard in his boxers, straining in his tight pants. He feels like he could cum just watching your beautiful face dazed with lust and listening to your sinful moans. Soft pants are leaving his lips "Fuck, you're so beautiful."

He releases your wrists to rest his elbow next to your head and he dips down, latching his lips with yours. You reciprocate immediately, wrapping your arms around his neck, relishing in the feeling of finally tasting his gorgeous pink lips.

Both of you are a panting mess, kissing sloppily, saliva dripping from the corners of your mouth as your tongue intertwines with his.

And all of this is becoming too much for you, and you already feel the coil in your stomach is about to snap any second. You snatch the collar of his shirt, probably ripping from how tight you're gripping it. "Don't stop, I'm cummin' - !"

He watches you in awe as you tremble and mewl underneath him, unable to kiss him back as the waves of your release overtake you. His lips latch onto your neck as he uses his thumb and knee to help you come down from your high. His breath is trembling as he sucks and licks the sensitive skin on your neck, his face burning and cock throbbing.

He almost whines in your ear "Please, please princess, I need to fuck you so bad..."

Your fingers interlace with his messy curls and he lifts up his head to meet your eyes. His cheeks and ears are burning red, eyes pleading and hooded with lust.

You softly whisper "I need you."

The same second he hears those words, his working hand frantically works his belt and the pants, a sigh of relief leaving his lips as his hot leaking cock is freed. He wants to take his sweet time with you, worshipping you, but he's already on the brink.

And you're so impatient; you pull your panties to the side and take his cock in your hand and tease the tip against your dripping pussy, the action making the man above you whimper.

"Fuck, princess!" He moves your hand away and squeezes the angry red tip. "Watching you got me so worked up, I don't think I'm gonna last long." He admits with a weak smile.

You pull him into a soft kiss "That's okay, you already made me cum so hard."

He kisses your lips and slowly starts sliding in, a gasp leaving both of your lips. He rests his forehead against yours, eyes squeezed shut as he eases into your sopping cunt.

You bite his delicious bottom lip as he buries himself to the hilt, your walls fluttering around his cock and you feel like you're about to cum again. You release his bottom lip and you move onto kissing his jaw and neck. Fuck, he smells so good.

He stays still as he tries to hold onto his sanity. His hot breath fans over your ear "You're squeezing me so hard, doll."

You wiggle your hips and press his lower back, urging him to start moving. Exhaling a shaky breath, his hips slowly start rolling, yours moving at the same pace. Mewls and moans are leaving your lips, as his cock keeps stroking the sweet spot inside you, glazing his length in your slick.

Rafayel needs to make you cum around his cock, but he’s already so painfully close, with your wet walls squeezing him so hard, your pretty lips on his neck and your bewitching voice in his ear.

He was so captivated by you that he almost forgot about the little toy lying next to you.

Your eyes widen when you see him snatch the toy and turns it on to a higher setting and props himself up, angling his hips to reach your swollen and twitching bundle of nerves. Intense shocks of pleasure take over your body as he starts rubbing the vibrator again, and in seconds you're a whimpering mess as his cock thrusts into you, repeatedly hitting that sensitive spot, and his hand pressing the toy on your clit.

"Raf - I -" Is all you manage to say before another orgasm overtakes you, your breath catching in your throat and for a second you think you're going to pass out. You can barely hear Rafayel's soothing and strained whispers of you how gorgeous you are and how pretty you sound.

But hear him whimper "I'm gonna cum, princess."

He tosses the drenched vibrator to the side and with a squelching sound pulls out of you, and your hips twitch as he presses the tip against your still throbbing clit as he jerks himself off, ropes of hot cum spilling all over your belly and drenched cunt. You’re thankful he pulled up your dress in the process, but you wouldn’t mind if he stained it.

After both of you take a moment to catch your breath, he puts his weight on you and you wrap your arms around his back squeezing him tight.

He peppers you with soft kisses all over your cheeks, your nose, your eyelids. His fingers caress your face.

He chuckles with that playful smirk on his lips. "I should snoop around your stuff more often."

[covid-safer-hotties]

To My Unmasked Friend in the Fifth Year of COVID - By: Anna Holmes - Published Aug 17, 2024

I’m going to be honest with you, because I love you, and you deserve nothing but honesty. I’m going to try really hard not to be angry while I do it, but it’s probably going to slip out every now and again. But I need you to hear me out, all right?

By now, we’ve talked about my reality. My personal struggle with long COVID, the isolation I live in, why I am so angry all the time.

But let’s talk about you. You just went to a big convention overseas. You got on a plane, got a little gussied up, talked shop with some insiders, geeked out over awards and merch, ate, drank, were merry, left with your social cup and your heart full.

You’re a good person. We wouldn’t be friends otherwise! You’d never dream of tripping a person with a red and white cane, using the r-word, excluding a disabled person from an event because of something they can’t help.

You might even acknowledge that the COVID response from governments and organizations has been ableist and inadequate.

But you didn’t wear a mask.

For whatever reason — you wanted to show off your makeup, it makes you itchy, you believed the messaging that COVID is endemic (what does that actually mean?), you just don’t think about it anymore — you made a choice that actively excludes people like me from participating not only in an event like a convention, but society at large. And yes, it is a choice. Every time you step out into the world without a mask on your face, you have made a decision that your very good reason, whatever it is, supersedes the right of disabled and at-risk people to exist safely in your orbit.

Well, hold on, you say. It’s not any one individual’s fault, it’s the inadequate public health messaging. Isn’t that what you’ve been saying?

And I have. In the past, I have talked about how it is unconscionable that health authorities have thrown their hands up and rescinded guidance that would have saved hundreds of thousands of lives and prolonged a pandemic that, to hear them tell it, has been bested. It hasn’t. Worst of all, the financial motivation that we all know is driving this premature victory lap isn’t even being fulfilled. Long COVID and other post-COVID complications are costing the global economy one trillion a year. Meanwhile, article after article handwrings about nobody wanting to work anymore, about the sagging college application scene, about declines in military enlistment, and the strain on our healthcare systems.

All of this is very much the fault of our leaders, who have decided the political ramifications of “normalcy” are more important than the health and lives of the 400 million people living with long COVID across the globe, the immunocompromised folks who are increasingly being shut out of every conceivable public space, and the disabled community which has been screaming into the wind about our marginalization since before the virus even hit US soil.

But I want to be very clear. You are helping them do this.

The reality is that we have been living in this deeply flawed landscape of “personal choice”, and you’ve made yours. You’ve opted not to look into how densely clustered cases are. You’ve stopped listening to your friends who have informed themselves. You’ve given yourself permission to put COVID on the back burner. You’ve earned it, right? Four and a half years of trauma?

COVID doesn’t care if you’re tired of being scared or careful or considerate. COVID is not something you can personally overcome by being smart or virtuous or brave. It is a virus which only seeks to infect and replicate, and it is getting very good at those things. While you’ve looked away, my community has been scrambling to avoid variants that skirt immunity and don’t show up on rapid tests until day five-seven. The constant battle has changed since you were last in it. It’s not sufficient anymore to get your shots and test before a big event. You could well be asymptomatic and infectious, or have symptoms and convinced yourself it can’t be COVID because that second line hasn’t popped up.

You have come to the conclusion sometime between 2022 and now that you just have to decide what level of risk you’re comfortable with and live with it. The problem with that is scale. It’s you and everybody else doing that, and a lot of people have decided they are comfortable with a high level of risk. Despite what you’ve been told, you’re not just making that decision for yourself. You are making it for every person you come in contact with.

Think back to the early tense days of 2020. We were told to select a “bubble.” Those people would be our social lifelines, and through those, we could control our exposure.

My bubble is quite small. It includes my husband, my sister, and two friends I see relatively frequently.

My husband goes to work via the bus, and to the grocery store. Every person he comes in contact with there has the potential to infect him, and then he has the potential to pass it along to me. He mitigates this by wearing a well-fitted respirator at all times.

My sister goes to work at a busy public place. She masks when public facing and takes it off in the back office. She goes to restaurants, bars, concerts, hangs out with friends and her own partner unmasked. About 75% of her interactions have the heightened potential to infect her, which she might then bring into my house when she visits me.

My friends do not mask anywhere except my house when asked. They attend concerts, shows, cons, bars.

Obviously, I am in control of whether I wear a mask around these people. And as we approach one million new cases a day, I will be around everyone but my husband. But science is clear: reciprocal masking is more effective at infection control than a single person masking — especially when that single person is trying to protect themselves, not others.

This is settled science. We’ve known this since 2020. It says clearly that the choice you make is not personal- it has implications for everyone you come in contact with.

And being clear — if I could, I’d make everyone wear a mask for their own health. I don’t want people suffering with what I have. But you’ve been told this lie that you can take your risks for yourself, so you feel comfortable going out without a mask. You’ve been told this lie that it’s possible to completely recover from a COVID infection, so you assume that even if you do catch it, that’s what’ll happen to you, despite evidence showing that every body is indelibly changed by an infection, and that risk only grows with each subsequent infection.

And the greatest lie of all — that only the sick or elderly have anything to fear from COVID — has given you unfounded confidence in your own “good” genes or immune system or fitness. You can get long COVID even if you’re in peak form — in fact, may even be more likely to be hit hard.

So you have decided, individually and collectively, that only the sick or elderly should have to take precautions, and you freewheel through life, only to get surprised and dismayed when you bump into COVID in the wild. It’s back, people declare every summer or winter, as though it ever left.

But I want you to really think about the implications of your choice. Besides yourself. Because let’s be honest here, that’s who you’ve been thinking about, right? Your risk. Your comfort. Never mind your bubble, never mind the bubble of everyone you come into contact with, never mind the people like me who are literally hiding from people like you.

You’re not masking at the doctor’s office. You’re not masking at the airport. You’re not masking at the giant superspreader you just attended, and you’re not masking in the bars and restaurants where we know the virus flourishes. And then you’re bringing that exposure back to your family and friends. Back to the grocery store, where you run across people like my husband, shopping for someone who is unsafe to leave the house, or your elderly neighbors, or an immunocompromised employee.

You’re a good person, or you like to think of yourself that way. That’s why when you’re asked to mask, you dismiss it out of hand — because that changed behavior implies that you’ve been doing something wrong.

And my friend, I’m telling this because I love you: you have been. You might have been doing that on faulty information, but be honest with yourself and with me — you’ve heard me begging people to take this seriously. You’ve seen the information I’ve been sharing. You have had the opportunity to seek out the correct information all along, and you have chosen not to.

It isn’t too late to change your view of the risk you’re imposing on the people around you. It’s not too late to push public health to become more effective. It’s not too late to act in solidarity and be the inclusive person you think you are. It’s not too late to take care of yourself.

Ultimately, that’s what I have been screaming myself hoarse about. I don’t want you to end up with what I have. I don’t want you to inadvertently impose that on someone else. And yes, I’ve been angry, because you’ve been advertising your absolute lack of concern with group shots of your naked faces on social media. It doesn’t seem to bother you that I am stuck at home like it’s 2020, except for doctors’ appointments that I literally have to risk my life to go to. You’ve told yourself that it’s not your problem, because only the sick and elderly have to take precautions.

You know better. You can do better. For your community, yourself, and me, do better.

Please. I love you.

Anna

PS. If you’re feeling upset and embarrassed right now, the best thing you can do is take action. Get yourself good masks (the surgicals and cloth ones don’t cut it anymore), donate to mask blocs so others can access good masks, write to your representatives and the President, comment on upcoming CDC guidance, schedule yourself a booster, and talk to your loved ones about doing better, too. The only way we get out of this is with community care. So care.

[slu7formen]

disarmed by desire. | luke castellan x f.r

₊˚⊹♡ luke can’t seem to get out of his head a certain someone, things become even harder when that certain someone, is an aphrodite’s daughter.

warnings: seduction, sexual tension, luke is obsessed over reader, reader’s an aphrodite’s daughter, reader has long hair (not really a warning but whatever).

reminder: english’s not my first language so I apologize for any spelling mistakes

pt2 here

Luke Castellan was obsessed with you.

No, not obsessed. He worshipped you.

He didn’t even know when it started. It was not one thing or situation that started it all, but little small things he witnessed that eventually lead to his confusing and strong feelings he wanted to desperately hide.

Being an Aphrodite’s daughter was no joke, nor was it falling for one of them. All of your brothers and sisters shared an unbeatable beauty. Each one of you is so different, but yet so similar. But the more you grew since your arrival to the camp when you were fifteen, the more you stood out to Luke’s eyes. The Aphrodite cabin girls were known for their charm, but you seemed different, less concerned with vanity and more with genuine connection.

The first flicker appeared during Capture the Flag. Luke wasn't actively participating, a rare occurrence for the camp's best swordsman. Instead, he leaned against a tree, nursing a minor but piercing shoulder wound himself, when she appeared. She wasn’t running across the battlefield like a fiery warrior, but holding a kid’s hand as he was a whimpering mess walking behind her, he sat down on a rock and she instantly attended his bloody knee.

“It’s okay, it’s okay. Don’t worry” her voice had said, and the little kid almost immediately stopped sobbing. “Other kids can be mean sometimes. What’s your name?”

Luke watched, spellbound, as your nimble fingers, surprisingly calloused for a daughter of Aphrodite, expertly cleaned and bandaged the wound. Sunlight kissed your hair, turning the braids into strands of melted gold. Laughter danced in your voice, calming the kid down and blending with the clash of swords.

It wasn't just your beauty, though that was undeniable. It was the tenderness in your touch, the quiet confidence radiating from you, a stark contrast to the usual flirtatiousness Luke associated with your cabin. He quickly realized you were also one of the few Aphrodite’s daughter who had the ability of influencing others with your voice; charmspeaking.

Even when your voice didn’t resonate for him, but for the little kid you were attending, he felt undeniably attracted to your sweet melody, maybe that’s why he stared so long at you too.

Then, your eyes met his. A smile bloomed on your lips. "Need some patching up yourself, brave knight?"

His breath hitched as your eyes pierced his, a blush creeping up his neck. He stammered, "No, I'm good." But the lie tasted bitter on his tongue. He wasn't just injured physically; a new wound had opened in his chest, one caused by a flirty smile and a concern genuine enough to pierce through his thick built-up walls.

Luke's attraction to you wasn't solely physical, but he'd be lying if he didn't find himself momentarily stunned by the way you carried yourself.

He couldn't help but steal glances when you wore shorter skirts or crop tops that hinted at the toned physique earned through years of training, or when the older campers organized a secret night out at the lake in which you made sure to wear the best bikini you could find. He'd catch himself mesmerized by the way sunlight would dance on the curves of your body, sending a flicker of heat through him and his own veins. There was an undeniable beauty in your perfectly applied makeup, but it only served to highlight the mischief sparkling in your eyes and the warmth etched on your smile.

It wasn't just the jealousy your beauty ignited in other girls, or the admiration you garnered from younger campers. It was the way you moved, how confidence flowed through you like liquid gold, making even the simplest actions seem captivating. One afternoon, he saw you braiding wildflowers into your hair, your fingers moving with practiced ease, and he found himself staring with parted lips, hypnotized by the delicate beauty you created.

He started finding himself drawn to her laughter, its rich melody echoing through the camp. He'd catch glimpses of her practicing archery, her form uncannily elegant even as she sent arrow after arrow into the bullseye.

She was perfect.

His mind would try to rationalize, tell him it was the warrior in you that drew him in, the way you handled a sword with both grace and ferocity. But deep down, he knew it was more than that. It was the way your beauty existed in perfect harmony with your strength, a potent combination that left him both breathless and curious.

He wouldn't admit it out loud, not even to himself, but the truth was, Luke found himself daydreaming about brushing a stray strand of hair from your face, feeling the warmth of your skin against his fingertips as he leaned it for a kiss of your sugar lips. Something as simple as that had him zoning out of every conversation and forgetting about activities in the camp. He imagined the playful glint in your eyes when you caught him staring, the teasing lilt in your voice as you challenged him to a duel.

Until, well… a true duel emerged. Summer was just starting after all, and practice needed to be done.

Steel sang beneath the afternoon sun as their practice began. The sky was painted with orange and bright yellow colors, as your darkened figures danced around the field. Luke, known throughout camp as the prodigy at sword fighting, moved with a controlled ferocity, his blade a blur of deadly grace. But his opponent today wasn't your average camper. You wielded your sword with the effortless elegance of a former ballerina, impressive to be someone who’s main skill is not fighting, he had to admit. Each parry was a pirouette, each attack a leap defying gravity.

Sparks flew as your blades clashed, but where Luke relied on brute force, you danced around him, using your agility and unexpected angles to deflect his blows. He felt a frustrated flush creep up his neck and loudly beat inside his chest, every missed strike fueling the unspoken tension swirling between you.

Sweat already glistened on your sun-kissed skin, adding a raw allure to your perfectly applied makeup. It dripped down your collarbone and hid underneath your shirt.

Luke fought with intensity, fuelled not just by the thrill of the duel, but by the desire to impress the captivating enigma before him. You, in turn, met his ferocity with playful taunts and flirtatious dodges, your laughter tinkling in his ears.

Some campers have forgotten about their own practices, drawn to the captivating spectacle between you two. Whispers swirled about Luke's unmatched skill, your surprising prowess, and the undeniable spark crackling between you.

“Look at that” Grover shook Annabeth’s arm, eyes pierced in two shadows swiftly moving around the grass, clashing their blades with resonating grunts and heavy breaths.

“Who’s that?” Percy suddenly asked, eyes wide and parted lips hypnotized by the slender figure whose hair flew around like it had its own life.

“yn, an Aphrodite’s daughter” his friend explained. “Not bad at swords at all, though. But she’s got Luke on his nerves”

Percy nodded. “Yeah, I can tell”

But Annabeth laughed. “Not that kind of nerves. Let’s just say she’s enjoying the attention Luke gives her”

The fight went on, each passing moment stretching the boundaries of skill and endurance. Your movements were a whirlwind of elegance and precision, forcing Luke to constantly adapt, his breaths coming in ragged gasps.

“Tired, hero?" you purred, a mischievous glint in your eyes as you walked around him and twirled your sword, the sunlight reflecting off its polished surface. "Perhaps a touch of Aphrodite's charm is what you need?"

Luke gritted his teeth, channeling his growing attraction into focused strikes. But despite the heat of the battle, your image kept blurring his vision - your smile, the way your hair fell around your face, how your cheeks flushed red and your glossy lips parted as you blocked his movement against you one more time. He felt his defenses crumbling, his usual stoicism replaced by a raw need to prove himself, not just as a swordsman, but as a man worthy of your attention.

“Careful, princess. Playing with fire might just burn you” he countered as he parried a particularly fierce blow, the impact sending a tremor up his arm. His voice was low enough for only you to hear.

"Oh, Luke" you laughed. “Thanks for worrying so much about me but, I know how to handle a little heat" You lunged, your blade aimed for his shoulder. He barely deflected it, the tip grazing his bicep, sending a jolt of adrenaline through him.

In a swift, mesmerizing blur, your blade danced around his, finding an opening. The clang of steel resonated as your sword disarmed him, sending his clattering to the ground. Silence descended, broken only by the ragged rasp of his breath.

He lets his knees fall to the ground, thinking you would have enough mercy for him to give him a break. But he found himself with the tip of your blade resting gently under his chin. You tapped it twice.

“Up, Castellan” you demanded. He looked up at you.

Your eyes, sparkling with both victory and amusement, held him captive. Sweat and dust smudged your face, adding a primal beauty to your already breathtaking features.

A slow smile tugged at his lips, not of defeat, but of something deeper. He lifted up his hands. "Seems I underestimated the true power of Aphrodite's daughters" he rasped, his voice husky with exertion and something else – an undeniable desire.

“Hell yes you did!” one of your sisters replied, earning a few laughs from the rest of the campers.

The small crowd erupted in cheers once the battle was determined as won by you. Luke eventually got up, sword still under his chin. He was much taller than you, to which you had to lift your own head up to fully see his face.

The roar of the crowd faded into a distant hum as Luke only focused on the heavy pounding on his chest, sword dangerously still close. A bead of sweat trickled down his temple, tracing a path past the flush blooming on his cheeks.

"And it seems that our little hero falls not just to skill, but also to some… irresistible charm" you purred, amusement tugging at your lips.

Luke grinned, a touch cocky, a touch breathless. "Perhaps," he conceded, voice husky with exertion. "But I wouldn't call it defeat” he cooed as you slowly put your sword down, placing it next to you. His gaze dropped, tracing a slow path down the curve of your sweat-kissed neck, lingering on the way your shirt clung to your form. Your exposed legs shined underneath the weak sun. The air crackled with unspoken desire, the playful banter now infused with something hotter, more primal.

"Besides," he murmured, voice low and dangerous, "victors deserve their spoils, don't they?"

His words hung heavy, loaded with hidden meaning, a meaning only the two of you seemed to understand now. You felt a blush creep up your neck, surprised by the sudden shift in his usual way of being towards you. You knew he knew you flirted, that you did it with ease. But this was different. This was Luke Castellan, the stoic, the untouchable, and suddenly, he was playing your game.

"And what kind of spoils are you thinking of, big boy?" you countered, your voice barely a whisper.

Luke looked around, campers long gone, already going back to their own activities as soon as your tense situation ended.

He stepped in closer, the space between you shrinking to a charged silence. "Maybe,-" he rasped head down and still heavy breathing, "a dance with the warrior who disarmed me not just with her blade, but with her breathtaking distraction."

His eyes flickered down to your lips, the unspoken desire sparking a flame within you.

“Or maybe something a little more private, as you wish” he continued.

The world seemed to shrink to the heat emanating from your body, the intoxicating scent of wildflower and victory mingled with sweat. Your pulse quickened, a blush blooming on your cheeks.

You laughed in disbelief, smoothly placing your long hair on one side of your head, bright mane elegantly falling like a cascade without you even trying. "Bold proposition, handsome" you replied, voice barely a breath, still trying to catch it. The nickname twisted Luke’s guts, in a good way, might as well have woken up something else. "But maybe you should focus on winning a proper duel before demanding rewards"

He chuckled, a low rumble that vibrated through you. "Challenge accepted, my lady” he whispered, stepping back and raising an eyebrow. "But know this; our next battle won't be fought with steel, but with wit, charm, and a touch of something… different"

You tilted your head to the side as he took his sword from the grass. "And this time, I won't underestimate an Aphrodite's daughter, or the power of warrior who knows how to play just as dirty as she fights"

This wasn't the playful banter you were used to, but you sure liked it. This was Luke Castellan, awakened, and the thrill of it was both terrifying and exhilarating.

"We shall see, Luke" you countered, your voice husky with a newfound nervousness as you pronounced his name. "We shall see."

As you turned to address a new opponent on the field, the memory of his voice, hot and suggestive against your ear, lingered on your skin. This wasn’t what you started, this was a dance of unspoken desires fueled by sweat, steel, and the awakening of a forbidden hunger in the heart of Luke Castellan. And you, the daughter of Aphrodite, were ready to play.

He couldn't help but watch you go, his heart brimming with a newfound determination. He admired your skill, your wit, your beauty, and most of all, the way you made him feel – breathless, excited, and utterly captivated. Your golden figure disappeared into a new crowd of campers looking for someone else to fight.

This was about to be one of the best summers ever.

pt2 here <3

I’m so delulu over this man istg

Currently reading PJ 3rd book :) Had to retake my lecture after I watched the show

ALWAYS OPEN FOR REQUESTS! <3