#Bon Air Day Care Center

[thelearningexperienceva]

Website: https://thelearningexperience.com/centers/bon-air/

Address: 1402 Packer Crossing, Bon Air, VA 23235

We make early education and daycare joyful, engaging, and fun for infants, toddlers, and preschool-aged children! Since 2002, The Learning Experience has been positively impacting the lives of children ages six weeks to six years by developing and implementing ground-breaking childcare and early education programs. Our proprietary curriculum encourages children to learn in their favorite way: by exploring and doing. This forms a foundation for kids to Learn, Play and Grow under the care of our nurturing teachers. The Learning Experience curriculum is created to meet or exceed nationwide standards and it’s all-inclusive—with all curriculum programs and enrichment programs like music, engineering and fitness, offered at no additional charge.

[fruitcoops]

Please, Please, Please

Cubs beach day in Nice and prompt C4: "Sunscreen" for day 2 of @oknutzy-week-2024! Characters belong to @lumosinlove (except Colette)!

“You,” Logan began, rubbing his hand faster until an aggressive thwap-thwap-thwap punctuated his words. “Are not going to be embarrassing me here, ouais?”

“Okay—Jesus, Lo—yes, alright, I got it.”

Logan pulled back and examined his handiwork. Functional. For now. Down the beach, Leo already looked half-asleep in the sun, and Finn’s longing glances toward him were not even slightly hidden. The breeze ushered a cloud further along; the sudden sunburst made Finn squint.

Logan huffed and squirted another dollop of sunscreen onto his palm, aiming for Finn’s shoulder this time.

“Oh my god, Tremz.”

“You’re going to burn!” he insisted. Finn squirmed away, but he had never been able to shake Logan. Not on the ice, and certainly not on a pebbled beach he’d been traversing since literal infancy. He smoothed out a stray arc of white over Finn’s spine and watched goosebumps flare on his arm. “What would you do without me, eh? Crisp? Like toast?”

“You sound like your grandmother.”

“If I bring back a lobster boyfriend, she’ll think I don’t know how to take care of you!” Logan wiped the excess on Finn’s waist and nodded, satisfied. “Bon.”

Finn quirked a grin at him. “Am I free to go?”

He was so sweet in the sun. So sparkly, copper and amber and caramel catching in his hair where the salt air had starched soft waves. Logan came close and pressed a kiss to each of his summer-warm cheeks. “I love your freckles too much to let them roast.”

“Hmm.” Finn turned his head slightly to the side, pushing his smile into Logan’s cheek. “Just my freckles?”

“And maybe you, a little,” he conceded.

Finn’s hands were pleasantly cool when he ran them along Logan’s sides in a long up-and-down. “A little?”

“Maybe a little more.”

“Enough to bring me home.”

Logan scrunched his nose at him. “I had to bring you, or the hot blond wouldn’t come.”

Finn slapped the sunscreen bottle from his hands with Logan’s favorite wordless sound of affronted disapproval—nearly a squawk, mostly a whine, almost his name. He snatched the bottle just before it hit the coarse sand and took off at a jog, dodging driftwood and clumps of drying seaweed.

Nice was beautiful in the summer. There was a reason he had brought Finn here, years ago. Finn hadn’t known a lick of French and Logan had hardly known what to do with himself watching the autumn reds of Harvard against a backdrop of blue and purple, but it was perfect. Still was. He knew just where to step to make the dock silent as he slowed and made his way to the far end, matching the steady rock of the current as it broke on the sand below.

“Bonjour.”

“ ‘Jour.”

A lazy smile spread over Leo’s lips when Logan knelt to straddle him, knees sinking into the soft towel they had brought down from his grandmother’s house. She utterly adored Leo, with his cherub curls and his good manners and (most delightfully) the ability to speak French. They hadn’t stopped chatting in nearly a week. Logan could listen to it forever.

Leo stretched, torso arching, arms overhead, ankles popping behind Logan—and relaxed, one wildflower-blue eye peering up. “You’ve got a halo,” he murmured. “Mon ange.”

Logan sighed through his nose and let his weight rest heavy across Leo’s waist. His breaths were measured with the comfort of a beach day. The sun had been kissing him golden since the first hot day in June; a week lounging on the coast of France practically made him glow.

“Le mien.” He drew a line down the center of Leo’s chest, where tiny freckles peeked through if you knew where to look. Mine.

Leo’s smile widened until his eyes crinkled. “You sound different here.”

“Mm?”

“C’est, um…” He raised a hand with great effort, tapping his fingers together like a crab claw. “Taffy. Smoother. Fancy.”

“You don’t sound like anybody here,” Logan laughed, relishing the judder of Leo’s belly beneath him. “But, my grandmère loves you anyway.”

“Yeah, she does,” Leo said, prodding him in the chest. “We talk all day long and she doesn’t say I sound funny once. You, on the other hand…”

“Ah! Un petit caneton! Ouais-ouais-ouais, coin-coin-coin-coin,” Logan mimicked.

Leo’s laughter nearly unseated him; he had hardly caught his breath when a shadow cooled Logan’s shoulder, and he leaned blindly into Finn’s thigh. “Are you being bullied into proper skincare, too?” Finn asked.

Leo tilted his head back with a hum. “We’re discussing how Madame Colette likes me better, thinks my French sounds exotique, and calls her only grandson a duck because he speaks like un canadien.”

Finn tapped the bill of Logan’s hat, knocking it off his head. “So you’re Frenching without me and not manhandling Leo into sunscreen? Preferential treatment, much?”

Logan blinked up at him with all the emptyheaded innocence he could muster. “C’est quoi? Je ne parle pas l��anglais, j’regrette.”

Finn’s lips pursed—his ears reddened. “He’s so sorry,” Leo translated before Finn could open his mouth. His hands slid up Logan’s thighs, high enough to edge on indecent but steady enough that Logan really didn’t care. “He just came here to swim and hang out with his hot boyfriend. Doesn’t know a thing about sunscreen, do you, baby?”

A gentle flick to the forehead was a small price to pay for propping his chin on Finn’s knee. “Here in France,” he said, laying on a thick false accent. “We don’t…’ow do you say…burn? I have never ‘eard of zees sun-screen you speak of.”

Finn looked at him for a long moment, then down at Leo. Chocolate-brown eyes fell on Logan again and he batted his lashes. It drove Finn fucking crazy when he did that, less in the sexy way and more in the don’t you give me those eyes you menace way. Logan employed it often for petty crimes like leaving one chip in the bag and putting it back in the pantry, just to watch Finn’s head explode for his own amusement.

Finally, Finn clucked his tongue. “I’m getting on the plane home without you. Good luck finding a redhead in France.”

Logan caught him around the calf with both arms when he began stepping back. Finn pulled, but he stood no chance when a featherlight kiss found the base of his thigh. “You’ll love me in the morning,” Logan countered. “When you aren’t stuck inside with aloe all over.”

“I happen to like staying inside and doing puzzles with Madame Colette.”

“Grandmère will keep trying to teach you French,” he threatened.

Finn narrowed his eyes, though he had long since stopped trying to free his leg. “Maybe this time I’ll learn, and then we can make fun of you together.”

“You won’t get to see the surprise,” Leo singsonged.

Logan frowned down at him, confused. “What surprise?”

Leo took his lower lip between his teeth and looked up at Finn, plucking at the hem of Logan’s swim trunks. “Remember when Lo and I went into town for bread yesterday?”

“…yes,” Finn said slowly.

“He got a really tiny swimsuit.” Logan watched Finn’s eyes widen. “And if you burn, you won’t get to see it.”

“It’s green,” Logan offered helpfully.

The corner of Finn’s jaw worked. “That’s a hard bargain,” he said at last. He beckoned Logan up with one finger and took the sunscreen back from him, setting it down by Leo. There was a curious, analytical look in his eye that made Logan want to know everything and nothing all at once. “I’ll think on it.”

“Can I help you make up your mind?” he teased.

“Yeah, actually,” Finn said, brightening. “You can.”

Logan’s pulse kicked. One week here with them had left him feeling like he’d been soaked in honey, and it only seemed to get better. He had barely been nineteen when he first brought Finn along. This future had not even been in his best daydreams. “Quoi, rouge?”

“You can cool off.”

The sudden shove to his chest caught him by surprise—the clash of the ocean around him silenced Leo’s bark of laughter in a blur of bubbles and blue. He could see Finn’s wobbly outline sketched out by the sun. Where the water drew him down to smooth gray pebbles, they drew him up, and he kicked off the bottom with the world waiting above.

[minty-drop]

Hello can you do Yandere Funtime Freddy x Male hand puppet child reader like Funtime Freddy ends up losing bon bon and Freddy turns male child reader into bon bon plz. If you can’t do it then can you do Yandere Jurassic park x raptor reader or Yandere Godzilla x kaiju reader

Yandere Godzilla x reader

Reader is gn, and using they/them pronouns so all readers can enjoy. This will be platonic due to the fact that Godzilla is an animal as I do not support zoophilia. This is write as if Godzilla and y/n already are friends

Type: headcanons

Warnings ⚠️: possessive nature, slight jealousy

- 🌊 goji never cared for humans, and never did. They are pests, annoying and violent. Humans have always been a pain to him for as long as they had walked the earth, claiming they were superior. What foolish creatures. To think as if they were the Center of the earths core, like they were the supply of life to each and everyone of the living and non living. They destroyed themselfs, and dragged everything else with them because of their own selfishness and greed for power they will never hold.

- 🌊 it disgusts him, the burning hatred never ceased. only growing with each and every new day waking up to the bunch of humans latching onto each other for their own needs. The mistakes turning into poison, the fear turning into war. And the obsession with power, becoming so great, it destroyed everything in its path to only end in more death. Within victory is truly a disguise of destruction for gains that do not exist. Humans bound them self to their doom, fates sealed to their graves as they wail why. Why do they deserve this. It sickened him to see such plain narcissism.

- 🌊 but when you had came out of no where, seemingly out of thin air only to show him kindness and tenderness without wanting or searching for anything in return. Lacking hidden motive or greed for power. It was new, different from the harsh intentions of the many, many other humans he has encountered during his times surfacing. Different from the intentions he’s seen.

- 🌊 no matter what he did, no matter how many times he huffed and puffed, grunting at you to leave him be. You never did. It confused him. For as long as he could remember, man had been curious, nosey little creatures of destructions. And curious you were.

- 🌊 the soft tips of your fingers fluttered on his scales, barley noticeable to the touch as they gently caressed the thick dark scales that encased his snout. It was nice. The small, warm pads of your hands petting him ohh so gently, it cradled him, soothed him like a lullaby. He subconsciously bugged his enough into your hands, the hot steam from breathing was wet, making your hair stick to your face but the smile never left. Your coworkers stood far from the titan the claimed to be a beast. Who was, in fact enjoying the touch of your hands gliding over the scales.

- 🌊 Godzilla who began to anticipate for your return each time you left to end your work shifts. Which were gentle sessions of affection through Pets as you swabbed his scales to study to scales. It intrigued you how thick the scales had become, though it was obvious that it was for durability when coming in contact with talons, teeth and claws, the biology of them was wanted, for so it was your job to study them. Using tools to your advantage.

- 🌊 he didn’t mind though. As long as it was you. He didn’t care

- 🌊 he seethed each time you were interrupted by the loud blaring of sirens, the weird noises and hand gestures your co worker made to you or the occasional conversation between you and a scientist, all taking you away from him. He didn’t want you to leave. Was he becoming selfish for your time?

- 🌊 you don’t have to worry anymore. Not when he has scooped you up in his claws to wisks you away to somewhere better.

Do not claim or copy my work

[cursedalthoughts]

SHIPGIRL APPRECIATION DAY - Kearsarge

USS Kearsarge. Let's start this post strong: Kearsarge is single-handedly the most unique character in the game (for legal reasons, in my opinion). Her design should already let you know why, but if you aren't seeing why, I will explain.

This post will divert a little bit from the formula I established post-DoY post (the first I did). It will include very, very heavy use of headcanons that are in no way supported by the lore, but I think are neat.

Personality-wise, Kearsarge knows she is superior. She is better than those other shipgirls that have decades of experience. That's simply a fact to her, and since it's a fact; all her actions do not come as arrogant. She just does things - she disregards your orders if she thinks they're not very efficient, she organizes your documents in a way she finds to be perfect regardless of what you prefer, she charges by herself or stays behind depending on the situation.

On occasion, I neglect your will and prioritize the here and now on the battlefield. While you are the Commander, sometimes you have to let your soldiers handle things – the sooner you accept this, the better.

Her approach isn't necessarily wrong, either. Despite this, Kearsarge is a very reliable shipgirl. She is, indeed, strong - her twelve 406mm main guns are accurate and devastating by themselves, but she also has access to a squadron of five F8F Bearcat attack aircraft. Her firepower is incomparable among Eagle Union backliners.

However, her personality doesn't stay like this forever. When you as the player character get closer to her, you discover she's just autistic. She deeply cares about you, but is so expressive about her emotions and trains of thoughts, it's easy to think she's just a self-centered arrogant woman who speaks with a detached tone. She will not outright tell you she's in love with you, but she will make you some borscht! (I should point out Kearsarge is, originally, a ship commissioned by the Soviet Union, hence her Russian influence). That's her love language.

USS Kearsarge, steel version.

Design-wise, I adore how the artist YD managed to take one of the ugliest ships in World of Warships and turn her into such a beautiful, unique, one-of-a-kind shipgirls. An angel descending from the machine, a seraphim clad in steel and powered by steam. A herald from another timeline, where the Eagle Union necessitated the construction of Kearsarge. Her rigging divided symmetrically in half, her turrets and their support structure taking the shape of 4 wings of white metal, the faux wings and herself connected to a floating halo device to act as a mediator between the flesh and the steel. Her planes up in the air, a ghostly echo. Her arms stretched outwards, "fear not".

In the event Parallel Superimposition the commander visits a simulation based on the anomalous data from the hull of Anchorage. We learnt a lot about Anchorage, Dr. Aoste, Dr. Anzeel, and the Type-II hulls. We also learnt Bon Homme Richard exists in this simulation. Now, I believe this realm to be strictly speaking a simulation - not a real universe. However, when the event ended; TB had managed to gather enough information on Yorktown II, Northampton II, Hornet II, Hammann II and Langley II. Laffey II, as much as she made an appearance, couldn't be studied. I am guessing the same goes for Bon Homme. Who is to say Kearsarge doesn't come from this simulation? Or that she comes from a universe that parallels this simulation?

Hopefully I shouldn't have to point the obvious similarities between Anchorage's rigging and Kearsarge's rigging. Anchorage is like a cherub accompanying the cyber-divine orchestra of Kearsarge's guns and planes.

-------

THIS WOMAN WILL NOT LEAVE MY MIND I HAVE SO MUCH BRAINROT FOR KEARSARGE

hopefully it's entertaining to read and y'all can see why i like her.

[alessafm]

did you see ALESSANDRA LOMBARDI wandering around the island today? they kind of look like MADELAINE PESTCH from certain angles? i heard around town that the BOUTIQUE OWNER is LOYAL, and COQUETTISH , but also VILE ,  and SELF CENTERED. people say that they remind them of BLOOD RED NAILS, SIREN LIKE VOICE, and THE ALLURING SCENT OF COCO MADEMOISELLE  , and YOU GIVE LOVE A BAD NAME by BON JOVI is definitely their theme song. they seem like a nice enough person, but we all know how hard it is to keep a pristine reputation in a small town.

alessandra lombardi was born in sicily , Italy. the eldest daughter of the american - Italian senator  :   agostino lombardi. her father had traveled to Italy to visit some family, when he met her mother anastasia moretti. it didn’t take much for her father to sway her mother off her feet and in less two months , they were married and anastasia was just weeks pregnant with alessandra. her father traveled from the states to Italy frequently but it wasn’t until her mother had a fall that he decided , to stay with her until she gave birth to alessandra.

 at the start , it was all butterflies and rainbows as they arrived to the americas. her father had been elected mayor and the older she got , the more she realized : her mother wasn’t happy . she dotted on her father , she loved him dearly . it’s not like she didn’t love her mother because she did but she also didn’t know how to talk to her or how to find things that they both enjoyed because no matter what she did , it was never good enough for her mother .

 until one day , she got home from school and her mother was never around to be found . her clothes were gone and so was her baby sister and brother. it’s like they had vanished from thin air , the vanishing from her siblings and brother changed her in some way . why did she leave ? why didn’t she care enough about her , to take her too ? what was wrong with her ? she beat herself over and over for years about why she hadn’t been good enough and the absence of her mother turned her cold . 

 no matter how many times her father re-married or found a new girlfriend , in her mind - no one passed the test . they were a few nice ones here and there but then again , they were closer to her age than her fathers . it’s not like they liked him for anything else than the money but then lighting doesn’t only strike once right  ? just like tragedy . alessandra felt in love , deeply in love and even though it was good at the start , it turned into lying and cheating ( or so that’s what she believed from her friend group ) . so she did the only thing that , she knew how to do : she ran home to her father , like she always did. 

 she let the heartbreak last a few days , cried her eyes out and then her father gifted her a store along the beach , stacked with all her favorite brands and even her own makeup line . alessandra has been working non stop , trying to surface the second part of her makeup brand , keeping herself busy trying to pay attention but attention might have payed her .

[missvalerierose717]

mars into Leo prediction all signs!! ❤️❤️❤️ ♌️

welcome to the Mars in Leo all sign prediction!

The readings are going to be split up in the 3 decans of Leo, with dates ranging from May 20th to July 10th

What is a Mars in Leo like?

“In Leo, Mars is a bold and confident leader with a childlike heart. A performer at heart yet slightly arrogant when in regards to its talents, Mars in Leo's showmanship is incomparable.”

May 20th to June 9th

The energy is starting out with a lot of mental stimulation and strategies. During this time the sun entered Gemini and forming a harmonious sextile exact to Mars.

There is expected to be moments of conflicts involving emotional responses and reasoning. This partially due to Venus being very active in Cancer, along with a lot of activated aspects to Pluto in the 1 degree in Aquarius. This indicates an abundance air element (I.e. intellectual, logical) vs. Water (I.e. emotion, intuition)

Through these days, we will be working through some honest discussions, and how we feel. Learning to except our feelings is a big part of this process.

The full moon in Sagittarius at 13 degree on June 3rd is an Jupiter influenced activation and revealing time of our higher lessons. 13° is associated with Aries. These are both fire elements, so this can be an active time for us all as a collective. in the journey it will be very apparent what we want! It could be a successful time to conquer. fate has brought us everything we’ve wished for. 💞

Bonus, oracle card; the fifth chakra Arcangel Gabrielle. 

This is a perfect  representation of the energy, resembling self expression in speaking your truth. 

It’s a time to focus on your throat, chakra and your heart center, acknowledging your power to communicate. Also, this is a time to speak your truth. Expression of your emotions and ideas in a way that’s honoring your spirit. 

June 10th through June 29th

We will begin to put in work in today, energy of the three of pentacles.

On June 11th Pluto enters back into Capricorn. Then followed by Saturn in Pisces 13° retrograding on June 17th. This is the time that we are going to be more focused on ambition and goals.

We will consume ourself in projects and collaborations. This is an important time to make use of our knowledge and creating solidify our foundations.

We may be going to feel more at ease as we materialize, and the physical things in life become more pleasurable. We may feel more abundant in regards a more stabilized environment.

Our love life also may be more productive as we put in the effort to be cooperative to one another.

With this decan we experience a new moon in Gemini on June 18th. It’s 26 degrees which is the degree of Taurus. We may be strong, steady and working on matters of love. Making this a time to be willing to compromise.

Bonus, oracle card; happy family.

A time for closeness, fun and caring.  this is about finding and truly loving the value of your family, and what it brings. Prepare yourself for more time involving happiness in the home life.

June 30th to July 10th

During this time, the sun will be in cancer by June 21st. Even though this is a very emotional setting, we are still living in a way that is wildly untamed.

It is predicted that we will end with the true nature of Leo’s spirit, and the strength card. This is about pride and confidence in all we’ve came to do and conquered.

Linkages to the planet Venus, and strong feelings we are deserving, and unwilling to accept less than our worth. We will be consumed by royalty and goddess tendencies.

 It will be projected that  there’s a fierce energy to go after your truest desires. It’s a power packed force of pride and ambition to follow you heart, Leo, after all does rule the heart.

 We may even make it widely known, how we really feel and what we really want. It’s not a time to be quiet about your pursuits.  We know we are deserving and our romantic relationships may begin to be fuel with fiery romantic flair. 😍

Bonus, oracle card: Ying yang. 

Resemblance of passion and action, versus intuitive and logical. This is where the forces are coming together to emerge as one unified source. Completeness in counterparts. This is the time to be receptive to your partner.

And the overall card, for the transit is the world. This card will be the main influence during this whole transit.

With this overall energy we are in seek of Achievement, Responsibility, Repayment, Completion, Fresh starts.

Bonus, oracle card;  indecision.

 The overall impact of this oracle card is during this transit we are going to discover what we need in life. Especially with Mars being our planet of action and desires.  This is a revealing time for us as a collective to rediscover, we may need to cut off some things that are unnecessary to manifest our happy life in reality.

Follow me for more astrological updates and predictions www.facebook.com/missvalerierose | IG: miss.valerierose

[onesouthstreetbaltimore]

Discover One South Street: Your Ideal Office Space in Baltimore

When it comes to finding the perfect office space, you want more than just four walls and a desk. An ideal office should offer not only an inspiring environment but also a range of amenities that make your workdays more convenient and enjoyable. One South Street in Baltimore, MD, offers exactly that. It’s more than an office building—it's a hub of innovation, comfort, and accessibility designed to elevate your work-life experience. Let's explore what makes One South Street the ultimate choice for businesses and professionals alike.

Iconic Architecture & Strategic Location

One South Street is not just a functional space—it's a landmark of architectural brilliance. The building's design is more than just aesthetics; it's a symbol of Baltimore’s rich culture and vibrant energy. Rising prominently in the city skyline, the structure captures attention with its modern lines and bold presence, representing Baltimore’s dynamic growth and future-forward vision.

Located in the heart of Baltimore, One South Street offers views of the iconic Inner Harbor and places you in the center of the city’s bustling downtown. This strategic position means you're minutes away from museums, retail hubs, top-notch restaurants, and other cultural landmarks. The central location not only reduces your commuting time but also provides a stimulating environment that keeps you engaged, both in and out of the office.

Dedication to Well-being

Beyond providing office space, One South Street prioritizes the health and well-being of its tenants. The building proudly boasts the WELL Health-Safety rating, a certification from the International Well Building Institute that underscores its commitment to creating a safe and healthy environment.

Health and safety are not afterthoughts at One South Street—they’re woven into the fabric of the building’s operations. From air quality control to enhanced cleaning protocols, your wellness is a top priority. This focus allows you to concentrate on your business while knowing you’re working in an environment that cares for your well-being.

Tailored Amenities for Modern Professionals

One South Street offers a suite of amenities that cater to the needs of today’s businesses and professionals, making your day more productive and comfortable:

Onsite Restaurant, Au Bon Pain: With an onsite dining option, you can enjoy a quick, healthy meal without leaving the building.

Onsite Credit Union (MECU) and ATM: Manage your finances with ease, thanks to convenient banking services right at your workplace.

Tenants-Only Fitness Center: Stay active and fit with a dedicated fitness space exclusively for tenants—promoting a healthy work-life balance.

Lobby Concierge Service: From greeting guests to assisting with daily needs, the concierge ensures a smooth, pleasant experience.

Onsite Parking Garage: No more wasting time searching for parking spots. Enjoy secure and convenient access to the building.

24/7 Professional Security Officers: Your safety is always a priority, with round-the-clock security professionals ensuring a secure environment.

More Than Just an Office Space

One South Street redefines what it means to work in an office building. With its LEED Silver certification, the building demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, using energy-efficient practices to create a healthier workplace and reduce environmental impact. This forward-thinking approach not only supports your business's productivity but also reflects a dedication to the larger global movement toward greener spaces.

In Baltimore, One South Street represents more than a place to work; it’s an experience that blends the city's vibrant energy with its storied history. Whether you’re a growing startup or an established business, One South Street is designed to enhance your professional journey by offering modern, tailored spaces in a thriving location.

Elevate Your Workdays at One South Street

With its iconic architecture, central location, wellness focus, and thoughtful amenities, One South Street is the ultimate office space for professionals seeking both functionality and inspiration. Come experience Baltimore’s landmark office building for yourself.

Visit One South Street Baltimore today and discover the difference it can make in your work life!

[draconaiis]

Bonnie's demeanor had changed somewhat since his arrival which he GUESSED was a good thing. After all, it wasn't as if he was making it his life's mission these days to terrorize her. Maybe he did a bit much in the beginning, but he also thought she was a bit too judgy. She hardly knew him yet decided from the rip that vampire equaled evil overlord. But then he'd remind himself that he didn't exactly go out of his way to prove her wrong. He always felt that if people thought he was an awful person then he didn't have much to lose. He could lean into their preconceived notions whereas Stefan could be the one burdened by trying to lead a good, morally perfect life. It wasn't Damon's thing so he never much cared what other people thought.

Still, he SUPPOSED he could get used to seeing Bonnie all laid back. It certainly beat her walking on eggshells around him and, if he were being perfectly honest with himself, he didn't like the idea of being compared to Klaus. He himself was nothing more than a spoiled brat in comparison to original hybrid. His whole motive in the beginning was centered around sticking it to Stefan for ruining his life. And make no mistake. He still heavily blamed Stefan for the monsters they had become, but if not for Katherine manipulating them both, maybe things would be different. Maybe they'd have met someone years ago, married and died old men. The old, American Dream right?

Damon shrugged. "Possibly. Or it's a sign." Good sign? Bad sign? He'd leave it up in the air for now.

As for the Elena thing, he hadn't meant to take her head off. He was just taken off guard and Damon's first impulse was to get all defensive. Probably not the best of things. Bonnie sure as hell wasn't the type to just go around attacking people, even if they'd done her wrong. So he found himself muttering an apology and while it didn't seem sincere, it was Damon level of sincere.

"Sorry. Touchy subject aight? Let's just… keep Elena out of our convos as much as possible."

Because while he did care for the girl and always would, there was some part of him that wondered if he could let it go --- let HER go --- for the long haul. And he grouped Katherine into the mix as well because there wouldn't be any Elenas without the Katherines. The whole Elena thing was a web spun by desire for the other woman. It was incredibly dumb… the way he foamed at the mouth over the idea of finding Katherine only to realize it's always been Stefan she loved. Or to find that with the presence of Katherine came one lunatic original chasing her skirt as well. All in all, Katherine was nothing but bad news and so maybe it was high time to let the past go; see what he could make of this miserable existence without that enchanting face.

Bonnie's next words had him giving her another look, but he remained tight lipped for the time being. She wasn't entirely wrong. He DID have his Damon logic. He had things that warranted a certain level of self interest ( IE all of Elena's friends, his brother… ) so he guessed there was SOME care in the mix. Even so, he wasn't going to admit that he might have a 'small' weakness in knowing certain people of this rinky dink town were alright. Far be it for him to admit that he MIGHT put his life on the line for some people --- and not just the Elena's of the world.

"You're absolutely right, Bon Bon. I'm going to tell you exactly that. You know better than to assume I have feelings. I am liable to stop caring any moment now." Again, not entirely a lie, but not entirely truth either.

He found himself snorting at the idea of her tagging alongside him to do away with the big evil. The idea seemed preposterous despite all the adventures she'd been dragged into up until now. Always forced to use her mojo to save the day. He knew it would probably happen again at some point but just REALLY mulling over it now ( with a clearer head ) made him strongly dislike the idea. Because what if… what if… she got herself bitten? What if he couldn't protect her? Elena would be mad. Jeremy would hate him. It would be a domino affect headed by Caroline, the world's most annoying vampire and he just… couldn't have that.

"You're not going to be eaten, Bonnie. At least so long as the Spooky Brothers Duo is still around." And that was saying a lot considering Stefan's shady behavior as of late. It wasn't much of a duo without his partner in crime. "Maybe that's what we all need to do. Just get the hell out of this dump."

Bonnie liked to think that the fact that he didn't argue meant that he agreed with her. He had crossed a line that would take time to come back from (if they could come back from it). She didn't point that out because she would rather not be proven wrong. It was nice and cozy in her delusion.

She did, however, snort when he pointed out that they had just agreed on Klaus. "Hell has frozen over and somewhere pigs are flying," she said, her voice light and teasing. She wondered what that said about her current mental state if she could sit around and joke about the big bad in her life with a former big bad in her life.

She wasn't surprised that his back went up when she brought up Elena. It was a touchy subject and she found herself actually feeling sorry for him. She had watched her friends find love, be admired --- and often felt like she was standing outside looking in. Throw feelings into the mix and she imagined that Damon was going to be a little touchy over it all. "Okay, my bad for even bringing it up," she told him and she was sincere about it. She wouldn't press then Elena button with him for the time being.

She chewed her lip, wondering how often he thought about just letting it all go. In truth, she understood the compulsion to do so. She wished she had that option, especially in the days after her grandmother left her. She was the only mother figure Bonnie had left and her loss hollowed her out. If she could have let go of the pain, she would have.

(look at her, understanding where Damon Salvatore was coming from of all people)

"You do care more than you think. Just not about the normal, expected things. You have your Damon logic," she told him, not buying for a second that he didn't care enough. "And there are things that provoke a high level of caring whether you want to admit it or not..." Since she wasn't going to press the Elena button, she knew damn well pressing the Katherine button wouldn't be much better. "I am sure you're going to tell me I don't know what I am talking about. Fair enough. I'll keep your dirty secret, Damon. I won't tell people you care."

She did breathe a sign of relief that he was going to hold onto his humanity if only so he wouldn't be Klaus. If that was the excuse he wanted to hold onto right now, she would let him. "Appreciate the backup because I have no desire to be eaten. I actually want to graduate and get the hell out of this town."

[cal-a-bungaa]

As The Seasons Change - Jake Kiszka (Autumn)

Title: As The Seasons Change - Autumn

Synopsis: Autumn is the time of year where the good things begin to wither away.

Word count: 1.2k

Warnings: angst. little fluff. swearing, and possibly a little spice

Some songs for you to listen to: We Fell In Love In October - girl in red, Flowers In Your Hair - The Lumineers, Touch - Sleeping At Last, Roslyn - Bon Iver & St. Vincent, Devil Town - Cavetown, Possibility - Lykke Li, Where’s My Love - SYML

Enjoy!

__________

Autumn.

The time of year where beautiful flowers and bright green leaves begin to wither away. With the sun going into hiding earlier in the days, the darkness overtook. Temperatures had dropped drastically in the past month so you could see your breath in a cloud of smoke. Leaves had yet to fall, but it was about time they did. 

In the few months you had been with Jake, he’d made you feel warmth you’d never felt before. The sun's heat couldn’t dare to rival how hot he would make you feel at any given time. But even with the heated moments in one of your beds, the pleasant hugs, and shared sultry looks, you’d still get chills. 

Regardless of the bitterness in the air, you’re almost sure you loved Jake. 

And you’d like to think he felt the same about you.

You two laid on your couch, his arms wrapped around your back and your head on his chest. It was a rare occasion to get him to spend an entire night with you. Even rarer to have him spend it at your apartment. You couldn’t really care less where you were, as long as he was by your side. His heartbeat was steady, maybe a little too slow with having you draped over him. You’d think he was asleep if it wasn’t for the soft tapping on the screen behind your head. Whatever he was doing on the device, it had to have been important enough to interrupt your quality time together. Though you were on the verge of sweating from his overly heated skin and the fleece blanket that was pulled up to your chin, the air surrounding you two turned cold. 

Sitting in silence together wasn’t uncharted territory for you two, but ignoring one another was. Sure, you’ve had your fair share of arguments, but never ones that had either of you blocking the other out. They always ended up with you choking back tears followed by Jake letting out animalistic groans above you, minutes later. Your relationship wasn’t perfect, no ones was. 

Jake let out a breathy chuckle, grabbing your attention and picking away at your patience. You turn your head to place your chin in the center of his chest. Your eyes watched his coffee-colored eyes scan over his phone screen, not taking any time to acknowledge your movements. Out of spite, which in hindsight was childish, you dig your chin into his skin which has him letting out a hiss. He paused for a second before typing again.

You repeated the action, finally getting him to look at you. “What? What’s wrong?” he sighs. 

Exasperated, you push yourself up from his chest. “Really? What’s wrong, Jake?” he just sat there, waiting for you to continue. “This was supposed to be our night, not you and your phones.”

“It’s just Josh... We’re talking about the recordings we did the other day and he’s trying to get me to go to the bar with him. Which by the way, is looking like a good option right now since you’re pissed off.” 

With a roll of your eyes, you tell him, “Well, you haven’t been here mentally so you might as well not physically be here either.”

You fully remove yourself from Jake, walking towards the balcony. The glass door slams behind you, hopefully giving him a greater sign to just leave, but don’t. Yes, you were upset with him but you didn’t want him to actually leave like the sun does every night. If Jake left, it’d leave you in a world of dullness. The balcony was small, enough to fit two people at a time normally, but the many ceramic pots that housed plants that you had bought over the summer with Jake, took up the extra room. Each one was beginning to droop. Even with being watered on a regular basis, it wasn’t enough. 

Looking out in the distance, you can see the city lit up and buzzing with life. You were glad you didn’t live in the center of chaos. Life on the outskirts of everything was everything you needed, calm, in driving distance of most stores and work. But that’s why Jake didn’t like coming over as much. He wanted to be a part of creating the buzz and energy the big city held. The clanking of the blinds hitting the glass panel prepared you for whatever fight was to come.

Another round of silence is all you were met with though. The whistling of the strong winds that threatened to knock you down was all you could hear. Jake’s warm hands run themselves up and down your arms, shocking you from the temperature difference. He breathes in the smell of your rotting plants and the crisp autumn air. 

“You’re shaking,” he rasps. 

Your body was violently shaking. It could have been the anger that was bubbling inside of you or it could be the freezing air. 

“And you’re still here,” you bite back. 

Jake lets out a heavy sigh, “I’m not leaving when you’re mad at me,” he presses his nose into your hair, letting it whip across his face with the wind. “I’m sorry baby.”

“I won’t lie to you and say I don’t wanna spend time with my brother, but I need to make sure you’re okay before anything else.”

You find yourself leaning into him, giving into the heat his body is radiating. Small kisses on the crown of your head slowly make their way down behind your ear. Jake knew every one of your weak points. He knew just how to ease the frustration out of you which was a bless and a curse. Too caught up in the feeling of his slightly chapped lips adventuring around the skin of your throat, you failed to notice his hands pulling you pajama pants to the side. 

The air was ripped from your lungs when he buried himself within you. As soon as you regained your ability to breathe properly again, Jake pushed your torso into the balcony railing. You could feel him taking over every sense of your body. You’d stopped shaking, now just trying to reach for him and letting out your sweet moans. Across your back, his pendant tickled you, swinging back and forth with him. The closer he got to his high, the more sporadic his thrusts became. His groans turned into breathy whimpers, whining as he releases inside of you. For a moment, it’s like time stops. You two just stand together, spent from the rigorous activity you just partook in. 

“Come on, let’s get you cleaned up,” Jake moves your shorts back to their place and grabs your hand to lead you inside. 

With a new pair of panties and shorts on, you’re laying in bed on the verge of falling asleep. For as tired as you were, you noticed Jake hadn’t changed his clothes. He sits on the edge of the bed next to you, brushing his thumb over the cheek. 

“I’m gonna go meet up with Josh, angel. I’ll be back, I promise.”

“You’re not...” you whisper.

“I’ll be back in just a few hours, get some sleep.”

You nudged his hand off your cheek and turned to your opposite sad, not wanting to watch him exit your bedroom. His heavy footsteps echoed through the apartment as well as the front door shutting. You didn’t have the energy to cry, instead choosing to watch the moon outside of your window. 

As his car left the parking lot, the first dead leaf fell in front of your building.

[yeniel]

Voilà une petite bd sur l'état des cheveux après une radiothérapie crânienne (Je n'ai pas eu de chimio, je précise). Je précise que celle qu'on m'a fait était localisée sur un endroit où j'ai perdu les cheveux là sur environ 1.5cm de diamètre, et à très forte intensité. Suite à ça ils tombaient facilement mais comme j'ai eu un traitement médical assez lourd je ne peux pas dire si c'est lié. La perte des cheveux n'est pas systématique, j'en ai perdu beaucoup mais j'en avais toujours suffisamment sur le caillou pour qu'on ne remarque rien. Ils n'ont pas poussé pendant environ un an, mais comme je l'ai dis, les médocs sont à prendre en compte. Voilà! Mine de rien, j'ai regardé récemment des photos prises un peu avant qu'on "découvre" cette maladie, je ne peux pas comprendre comment personne n'a rien vu, trop occupés qu'ils étaient à médire probablement, j'étais vraiment pâle et d'apparence toute fragile, on aurait dit que j'étais faite en verre...

Here's a small comics about hair's condition after crannial radiotherapy (I precise I didn't have chimiotherapy). I specify that the one they did to me was centered on a spot where I losed my air on nearly 1.5cm of diameter. It was on a high intensity. After that, I easily losed them but as I had heavy medicines so I can't say if there's a connection. The lost of hair is not systematic, I lost many but I still had enough then people won't notice anything. They didn't grow for nearly a year, but as I said, the medicines must be considerated. Voila! Come to think of it, I recently saw photographies that were taken before they "discovered" the disease, I can't understand how no one didn't see anything, they were too much busy with mud-slinging i suppose. I was so pale and looked all fragile, it was like I was made of glass...

Voilà une image où j'ai enfin réussi à ne pas avoir une tête de gogole, bon, je les teins maintenant parce que je suis vieille xd, la lumière était gentille avec moi ce jour-là, mais je ne comprends vraiment pas ces personnes qui passent leur temps à se photographier, c'est tellement chiant... Bref, vous pouvez voir comme c'est classe de ne pas avoir des cheveux qui poussent à la même vitesse!

Here's a photo where I finally successed to not have a silly face. I dye them now because I'm old though xd, the light was nice with me on that day, but I'll never understand those people who're taking photos of themselves all day long, it's so boring... Anyway, you can see how this looks great to not have hair which grows up at the same speed!

Alors pas de panique pour vos cheveux, laissez le temps faire, certes ils sont plus fins et moins bouclés pour moi, mais ils ont retrouvé leur beauté. Je sais que ça paraît futile mais quand on commence à aller mieux ça tourmente. Ah oui, juste si vous vous demandez pourquoi je les garde longs (ouais je sais on s'en fiche), chez moi ils sont tellement fins qu'ils poussent en largeur, le poids de leur longueur les rend sages.

So do not panic for your hair, let them time. Of course for me, they're thinner and less curly, but they're beautiful like before. I know that can appears foolish, but when you're starting to feel better it becames some torment. And if you're wondering why I'm keeping them long (yes I know, we don't care), they're are so thin that they grow up wide, so the weight when they're long makes them wise.

[tatsumology]

1-cm High World

Location: Seisou Hall Courtyard

Mitsuru: Sniff sniff… Just as I thought, the scent of bread is coming from over here!

They gotta be sweet buns~☆ It smells like the ones you can get at the supermarket!

Ah, found it! So it really was here!

But why is it hanging from a tree branch? It kinda looks like a bread-snatching race.[1] Hmm?

Well, anyway. The bread will go bad if it stays here. I should bring this to the dorm supervisor[2] right away! Dash dash, ju~mp!

Uwaah!? I got stuck in a net and now I’m hanging in the air!

So basically, this is a trap someone set up? Maybe it was the mischievous Hinata-chan? Or could this have been one of Shinobu-chan’s ninjutsu tricks?

When I move my body it feels like I'm shaking like a yoyo, it's fun! Bounce Bou~nce♪

Kohaku: ...It actually caught him.

Mitsuru: Ah, Koha-chan. Hello!

Kohaku: Though this isn’t a situation to be greetin’ each other so casually…. Good day.

Ya certainly look like you’re utterly hog-tied. I'll get ya down, so don't move.

Mitsuru: Okay! I'm bad at staying still, but I'll control myself♪

Kohaku: (Even in such a situation he’s not fazed in the slightest... sorta like Madara-han.)

(Although we’re doin’ activities together as Double Face an’ I know about the ”Mikejima” name, I still don’t know Madara-han’s true self real well.)

(Even if it’s just for a short while, I feel mighty anxious bein’ in the care of someone like him.)

(I was tryin’ ta figure out one or two weaknesses o’ his, an’ then I pieced together that I needed ta go to the Track & Field Club.)

(In order to not stir up any unnecessary trouble, I can’t touch Narukami-han, who’s real close ta bon[3]. An’ as fer Otogari-han...I can’t quite grasp his physical strength just yet.)

(Rulin’ those out, I had ta choose Tenma-han.)

(Although ‘t was me who set the trap, I didn’t think he would come. Yer run-of-the-mill folks wouldn’t get caught up in such an obvious trap, right?)

(Just how much does this dude like bread?)

(Well anyhow, it’s all dandy that I’ve been able ta get him while Madara-han ain’t around.)

…. Now yer loose. ‘M sorry that I set out a trap like this, but there’s just somethin’ I hafta ask ya.

Mitsuru: Not at all! It felt like an amusement park ride, so it was fun! I’d welcome a trap like this any time!

Kohaku: I- is that so? Well, nothin’ better than a good mood right? Here, have some bread as an apology.

Mitsuru: Yaay, I scored another piece of bread! Yesyes~!☆

Munch munch…. So, what was it that you wanted to ask me?

Kohaku: Y’see.. Y’know Madara-han? The one from the Mikejima household? I pretty much only know ‘bout how he is as an idol.

Tenma-han is also in the Track & Field Club with him, right? Can’t ya teach me what kind of person he is?

Mitsuru: I got you! Then let’s change into our tracksuits and meet up in 5 minutes!

Kohaku: Thanks a lot, ya really saved me there~

…. Eh, tracksuits?

5 minutes later

Mitsuru: Okay, first of all, let’s have a match! Get ready to dash! ☆

Kohaku: (So basically, we’re gonna run? I haven’t got a clue what this has gotta do with Madara-han, though.)

(In order ta gain his trust, it’s best ta just go along with him.)

Mitsuru: Dash dash~!

Kohaku: Hollup, how far are ya plannin’ on goin’?!

Mitsuru: Thanks to the bread I’ve just eaten, I’m all fired up! It’s just so much fun to run!

It’s the first time that I’m running together with Koha-chan. You’ve gotta show how much you can run!

I’ve become a proper oniichan now that I’m in my second year. I’m not a child that you can just baby all the time!

Kohaku: Haaa… huff..

Mitsuru: Koha-chan, are you okay? Please eat some bread and jazz up!

Kohaku: Are ya serious?! If I were to get anythin’ in my stomach right now, I’d totally throw it all up.

Mitsuru: It’s gonna be fine if it’s bread! I have some …

Huh, I don’t have any bread on me?!

Let’s go to a bakery to get some! So dash dash with all I got~!

….Not with all I’ve got. I should match up to Koha-chan’s pace, then dash dash at half power~☆

Location: Time Street

Mitsuru: Munch munch… Bread is super duper tasty when you eat it after running!

Kohaku: Yer right...it’s tastin’ better than usual ‘cause we just worked up a sweat.

Mitsuru: ....

Kohaku: ? What’s the matter? Yer starin’ like a rock...

Mitsuru: I just always got the idea that you practically don’t have any friends, so I’m happy that we’re hanging out together! Ehehe♪

Kohaku: “Practically don’t have any friends”...you don’t beat around the bush, huh. Compared ta you, I don’t have heaps, but I do have some.

(‘s all well. Although Tenma-han looks like he’s got his head in the clouds all the time, he’s real aware of his surroundings. It’s kinda surprisin’.)

(.... This ain’t the time for admirin’! I totally forgot about my objective.)

(I could keep goin’ along with him, but with bread and dashin’ I won’t make any progress. Let’s cut to the chase now.)

Tenma-han. This is about Madara-han, I don’t really understand what all this runnin’ around has got to do with him. Could ya explain it so that even I can understand?

Mitsuru: Okey-dokey! Up you go~☆

Kohaku: Waah?! What are ya doin’! Don’t carry me on yer shoulders! Egh, I can’t get down if ya grab me so tightly!

Mitsuru: Mike-chan-senpai loves festivals! He carries me like a mikoshi[4]— gives me a ride on his shoulders and all. He’s a super nice person!

Whenever I’m in a fix, he helps me out. He’s a good guy. But I’ve also become bigger too, I'm already a second year!

I wanna go from being helped to being someone who helps out others!

So if you’re ever troubled about anything, Koha-chan can also come to me for advice!

Kohaku: …. Right. If I’m in a pinch, I’ll count on ya.

(His eyes are sparklin’ when he’s talkin’ ‘bout Madara-han.)

(“A super nice person” huh … So he appears like that to a kid who knows nothin’ of the face beneath the mask.)

(Though I didn’t quite get the information I was hopin’ for, I still spent a meaningful day like this.)

Mitsuru: Sniff sniff … I can smell freshly baked bread!

It’s coming from that bakery! Dash da~sh … ☆

Kohaku: Whaah?! Put me down first~!

Proofreaders

JP: Anonymous

EN: Amagiiz

Translation Notes

A bread-snatching race in Japan is mainly done during school events. Bread is hung on a string, then children need to grab it with their mouths and carry it over a course to the finish line. You can see an example of this in Mitsuru’s bloomed 2015 Sports Festival 4* card ↩︎

The dorm supervisor is Keito. ↩︎

This is how Kohaku refers to Tsukasa. ↩︎

A Mikoshi is a Japanese portable festival shrine that you carry on your shoulders. ↩︎

[daydream-believin]

The Never-Ending Roadtrip (waffles)

summary: (part 1) or (part 5) <- reader joins douxie on his quest to protect nari. he’ll need company wont he. (part 6) do you like waffles? also appalachia and nj trollmarket fun. next-> (part 7)

warnings: swearing, fem! reader, maybe an alcohol mention, proof reading is for squares yo

word count: 3875

a/n: i’m sorry to anyone from PA but wtf. i also have no idea why this turned out the way it did. bon apetit.

no gif im trying to test something

~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Y/n looked over at Douxie. The blue of his hair was starting to fade into a duller hue. While not as bright and bold as his personality, it was still very nice to look at. This muted blue was softer, almost comforting in a way. Y/n found herself running her fingers through it. It wasn’t just the color that was soft. Like feathers in her hand, she gently caressed the strands. The duller color made him look tired, older, and the permanent bags under his eyes didn’t help. She placed her hand on his face and ran her thumb over a said eye bag. He gave her a very subdued smile in return. His sunken eyes were so beautiful. Her favorite color. Or colors, one should say. They were like an earth toned opal. Y/n’s hand drifted down his face. She used her thumb to explore his cheekbones, tracing constellations in his freckles, and finally settled on his mouth, tracing his cupid’s bow. Douxie couldn’t help but break the stoic face he was trying to hold.

“As much as I hate to ask this, and I really do, but will you please cease what you’re doing, My Love. I’m trying to drive here.”

“Yes, I would also like to ask you to stop, miss L/n. Not wrecking the ship is worth you canning your pda for a while.” Archie added.

Y/n pulled her hand back and exaggeratedly pouted. She teasingly stuck her tongue out at Archie for good measure, but couldn’t help but dissolve into a snicker right after so it wasn’t very effective. But really, it wasn’t her fault that Douxie’s beautifully sculpted face was right there and demanding to be touched. She tried to distract herself by focusing on the scenery around them. North Pennsylvania was delightful, so it’d be a shame if she spent the whole time that they flew through it looking at nothing but Douxie. There was plenty of time for her to do that the rest of her life. It’s not like she didn’t have every freckle memorized already. Every single adorable little dot. Right, Pennsylvania. Appalachia. Y/n was a little disappointed they didn’t manage to go through West Virginia, being as north as they were. She really wanted to know what all the fuss was about. Country roads.

The mountains were hard to transverse through, so Douxie took the boat up high in the clouds. A little too high. The oxygen was thin. While this didn’t affect Archie the dragon or Nari the plant goddess, Douxie and Y/n were getting a bit woozy. Neither would get altitude sickness to the point of dying, thanks to that good ol’ curse of immortality, but their minds weren’t exactly operating at high speeds here. They passed through a low hanging cloud in a puff of fog.

Though they were over it, just being in the range of Appalachia felt odd. There was a presence that clung to the mountains. Even flying high up in the air, one felt as though they were being watched. Like the thousand eyes of the forest were upon them. Looking down below, hanging over the edge like Douxie hated her to do, Y/n saw a herd of deer that might as well be ants. Watching over the herd was a bigger, or maybe closer, stag on a peak of some sort. His antlers were covered in crimson. Y/n hoped he was just shedding.

There were pathways cutting through the trees below, some roads, some manmade trails, some rivers, some troll trails, and some deer trails. Some that wound around in endless curves, some that seemed to start from nowhere and stop at nothing, some that went round and round in a circle, and some that crossed over each other, effectively creating a maze of sorts. Y/n didn’t know why, but she was glad she was above the trees and not in them. Something within her gut told her that as beautiful as the scenery was, she did not wish to experience it first-hand. The deer below were beautiful, but there was something not quite right about them. She couldn’t quite put her finger on it. She wasn’t sure if she’d be able to turn down a game of ninepins either, and she could really go for a drink.

Douxie’s brain may have been foggy, but he could certainly see Y/n hanging over the edge again, tantalizing him. He couldn’t help but imagine 174 ways for it to end badly. He’d been pretty passive about this before but now that they were so high up, he had no choice but to be up front now.

“Y/n, My Love,” Y/n turned her attention to him, which also pulled her weight more towards the boat than the sky. Good. “do you mind being back near the center of the ship? I really don’t like you draping yourself over the railing like that.”

Y/n was getting sick and tired of people always trying to keep her away from edges, advising her not to climb the mountain, telling her to stay inside when there was only a light rainstorm. She could handle it. She wasn’t a fucking porcelain doll. She was not wearing a fancy gown that suffocated her, she could speak, her lips were not perfectly painted on. And she wouldn’t shatter. “Relax, Dewdrop. I’m fine. I’m not just gonna go skydiving for kicks. If anyone has had a penchant for falling through the sky recently, it’s been you, Hisirdoux. I can catch myself with anti-gravity spells, like you taught me. Besides, we walk across tall, crumbly, ancient non-osha compliant walkways all the time. You never had a problem then.”

“Well,” He huffed, “it would be one thing if I was there next to you, but I’m not, so could you please just try to stay safe when I can’t reach you?” Y/n was taken about at how quick his tone went from annoyed to desperate. She furrowed her brows. Doux sighed, “Look, it frightens me, okay. I know that nothing will happen, but what if it does? I can’t- I can’t lose you.” His tone got even feebler in his pleading. “And there’s so many ways to lose you. Especially with the Order on our tails. Please, just give me this peace of mind for at least one thing.”

Y/n stepped away from the railing, crossing over to Douxie. He opened his arm and she nestled into his side. Pressing her head against his chest, she mumbled, “Absolutely. I’ll just—I’ll just stay here then. Next to you. I’m sorry I worried you. That was the last thing I wanted to do.”

He leaned down to press a kiss to the top of her head. “Thank you, My Darling.”

~ ~ ~

The dipped down south to go through the top of Maryland and completely through Delaware to get to the south of New Jersey, in place of just going through Philadelphia. The city of brotherly love was not on the itinerary.  Philly, and the top of New Jersey, were just too densely populated to take a magic boat through. The airspace was filled with airplanes and skyscrapers. It was easier to go the roundabout way.

As they passed between Philly and Lancaster, they went by fantastically named towns such as Paradise the city, where the girls are pretty, Bird In Hand, Blue Ball, and Intercourse. Stellar. Y/n was starting to really like Pennsylvania. It was cursed ground. She made sure to get photographic evidence of every road sign. Douxie was happy to pose with them.

They took a pit stop in a town called Peach Bottom before leaving Pennsylvania. Y/n wanted to go through New Texas, since she was curious how somewhere in the original colonies could be a new Texas, but Nari could sense a river nearby, and wanted to seek it out. Peach Bottom. It was a cozy little town with a power plant that was dumping it’s waste into the riverside it was built on. Toxic river. Fun. Y/n made Douxie explain to Nari why she couldn’t get near the river or touch any of the water. Y/n wouldn’t have been able to stay as calm as Douxie could. There was nothing happening in the rural Pennsylvanian town. Nothing special about it unless you counted their countless nuclear admissions. The locals didn’t care for strangers, and that was alright with them cause they didn’t want to be here for any more than necessary for a restroom break. Dinner could wait.

The top of Maryland was great. Lots of rivers to make it up to Nari. There was just, an incredibly large walmart near the line. Just absolutely humongous whopper walmart. A leach whose name doesn’t even deserve to be capitalized, thank you very much autocorrect.

It took less than half an hour to fly right through the top of Delaware. Hi Delaware, bye Delaware.

Soon they were on the coast of south New Jersey, headed for a sleepy town called Monty. Monty was a town along the Cohansey, split across it with quite an impressive bridge between the two sides. As soon as the bridge became visible on the skyline, Y/n grabbed Douxie’s sleeve and tugged excitedly. She looked up at him with a big smile. Rest. At last, they were going to get to rest. Y/n made herself busy calling Jim to let him know that they were there so he could call someone else to let them know that they were there and to wait by the entrance for them. Neither Douxie nor Y/n had a horngazzle on them at the moment. Y/n had had one in her possession back in Arcadia, being book club buddies with Blinky, but alas that was destroyed along with their bookstore.

They hid that damn magic boat in the forest. While they did plan on staying with the trolls for a few weeks, Douxie didn’t put it back in its glass bottle quite yet, cause they were in fact taking it into New York not tomorrow but the next day. He covered the ground around it with a few more wards than necessary. Y/n threw up an illusion spell around it, as she had been all the other times they’d just left it in the woods, and thought the wards were overkill but didn’t say anything. They started on the trek to the base of the bridge.

The troll at the entrance greeted them cordially. He was a dark green color, with two massive horns resembling those of a longhorn cow, chiseled stone tattoos, and no clothes other than a tiny loincloth which made everyone but Nari uncomfortable. He let them in with flourish, as if he’d always wanted to do this and practiced it.

“Welcome to NEW JERSEY TROLLMARKET.”

Y/n was surprised at how well the town had come along within the two months the trolls had occupied the cavern. It wasn’t the Trollmarket she had known, there was no Blinky and no library, but still marvelous. The new hearthstone glowed warmly, very much alive and not making zombies. While looking pretty similar to the old Trollmarket, with a multitude of shops and homes carved into the mineral covered walls and formations, there was a sort of human touch to it now. Claire definitely had a hand in the planning and maybe the decorative features too. Or perhaps Jim. Y/n wouldn’t put it past the boy to be the one who designed the very elaborate crystal art flower bed she was looking at. Or that weirdly steampunk bridge. Funny thing, a bridge under a bridge.

Dictatious met them soon after they came in to show them around and to where they would be staying. The tour he gave them basically just included him walking them through the main street, waving his arms to various places and vaguely saying that they were shops but not what they sold, pointing out the pub, and then took them straight to their accommodations. Since the home that had been occupied by Blinky, Jim, and Claire was now empty, they’d be staying there, with the place practically to themselves. Dictatious also lived in said home, but rarely stuck around it for long now that his brother was gone.

“Alright, here’s your nest.”

Since Dictatious still slept in the nest that he shared with Blinky, he had given them Jim and Claire’s. The nests were just rocky bowls carved into the floor of the room, with a few comfort items. Thankfully, Jim and Claire had left theirs full of pillows and a couple thick cushions they must have taken from a couch. Unconventional, but better than sleeping on literal solid rock. Speaking of couches, there were way too many couches spread across the apartment. This entire place only had two rooms, a large living area and a nestroom, and yet there were five couches. Not to mention the extra-large easy chair Dic was currently lounging in. Okay, so one of said couches was technically a love seat, but still. There was no kitchen, which was surprising due to this being Jim Lake Jr’s home, and no table besides the one that three of the sofas were gathered around and a paper-covered work desk against a corner. There were glowing crystal lamps all throughout, lighting the house. All in all, interesting interior design decisions. The kids had definitely been trying to make it a more homey human dwelling but had limited options.

Nari nestled into the nest, happy that there were no blankets to smother her. Not even a minute passed and she was out like a light. Douxie and Y/n sat on one of the couches in the nestroom, watching the veggie lady snooze. Archie made himself comfy in Douxie’s lap, who absent mindedly stroked his familiar’s fur. They were underground now. Surrounded by inorganic matter. Some of that inorganic matter could fight, would be willing to fight, would probably be disappointed if there wasn’t a fight. The little devil on Douxie’s shoulder wasn’t really having to work hard. His stomach growled. They had opted to just not stop for dinner in favor of plowing right through their trip route. It was late, and dark, and Douxie really just wanted them to have a roof over their head before midnight. And now they did.

He looked over at Y/n. They had been a couple for an entire day now and he had yet to take her on a proper date. What a bad boyfriend he was. It’s not like Archie would want to come with them or anything either, since he filled himself with birds that didn’t know what hit them while they traveled. The dragon had even caught a hawk at one point, which wasn’t as impressive as it sounds, since Archie was a much faster flyer. He would be happy to watch Nari for them, surely. And Dic had given them a horngazzle so they could come and go as they pleased. It was settled then.

“Arch, watch Nari for us, please, we’ll be back in a pinch,” He grabbed Y/n’s hand to pull her off the couch, “C’mon, My Love, we’re going on a date.”

~ ~ ~

Turns out the only thing open past midnight in small town New Jersey was a waffle house. The perfect date. Y/n had thought it funny to watch Douxie try and deactivate all the fresh wards he had put around the boat. He had to be careful where he put his feet, and it was like he was doing a silly little dance. Ward trap ballet of his own barely thought-out design. At one point he stepped backwards to admire his work, triggering the ward behind him, and Y/n had to free him from the net. Lucky it was just a net one.

Entering the waffle house, they slid into the nearest booth, the one near the jukebox. They ordered what else but waffles. The food of kings and hungover college kids. Not just plain waffles, though. Douxie got chocolate chip and Y/ got strawberry, and they were going to combine them to make chocolate covered strawberry waffles. Everyone knows chocolate covered strawberries were the most romantic food, why else would they push them so hard around Valentine’s.

Douxie leaned in with his head in his hand. “So, tell me about yourself.”

Y/n laughed, decided to play into this bit. “Oh, I’m just a California lass, on her way to New York. Things have been crazy lately. Went to a very convincing renaissance faire, I’m harboring a fugitive, my roommate keeps hitting on me. Very stressful.  Sure am lucky I came across you, Mr. Handsome.”

“Lucky indeed.” Doux snickered.

Y/n pointed to the jukebox behind Doux, which he twisted around to see. “Have you ever heard ‘Last Night I Saw Elvis At Waffle House’?”

“No?”

“Oh, it’s a banger.” She got out of the booth and put a coin in the juke, making her selection. She slid back in with a Cheshire cat grin and Doux was kind of scared now, actually. As the current song ended and the song that they were waiting for began. Well, it was a song. About seeing Elvis in a waffle house. With a country tune he supposed someone thought was catchy in order for them to have recorded this. Douxie didn’t know what he had expected.

“Uh, wow.”

“Yeah, Ain’t it something. I loved this song when I was knee high to a grasshopper. All the waffle house jams really.”

“Your aunt let someone bring you to a waffle house? That’s not very proper.” Douxie chuckled.

“Oh, no, actually. Um, this was before my dad passed and my mother, ah, slipped.”

“Oh.”

“Yeah.”

Douxie rubbed the back of his neck. “I’m sorry I mentioned it.”

“No, no. I’m fine Dewdrop. I can talk about it, really. And, like you said the other day, I’ve been focusing on the Now Love.” The silly waffle house themed song was still playing despite the air of seriousness that had fallen over the duo. It helped keep Y/n from getting too sad and dwelling on the memories she had just brought up. It was comical, really. A waffle house song keeping her grounded. She rubbed the palm of Douxie’s hand. “I still mourn my family, but it’s been so long that the pain’s but a dull ache now. As long as I don’t think too hard about it. If anyone knows about mourning it’d be you, Doux. I can’t imagine meeting hundreds of friends over my lifetime just to watch them all grow old and die while you just have to go on living.” She paused, eyes drifting downwards, “But I suppose that’ll be my fate anyways.”

Douxie reached over and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. “It’s actually not that bad, once you get used to it. You just have to enjoy every bit of time you get. That’s what makes other magic friends so valuable, there are some permanent players on your team.” He let his hand linger under her jaw, pulling her face closer to his, “You have me. We have each other. We’re family. We always have been.”

“So I hate to interrupt, but, waffles.” The server put the plates she had been holding down onto the table. Douxie and Y/n pulled away from each other quick as lightning, sitting up straight in their seats. “Again, sorry guys.”

“Thank you.” The two chorused to their fleeting form in embarrassment. Their faces were fire engine red. Archie was right, they did get a little carried away with the pda. It may have been 12:28am in a waffle house but they were still in public. Grabby hands needed to be kept to themselves.

After dinner, neither Doux nor Y/n could bring themselves to go home quite yet, despite the nagging feeling to return to Nari. They loitered around woods, unsure of what to do. Leaning against the parked boat, Douxie got an idea. He put on the music on his phone, turning the volume all the way up and positioning it so it’d put out a better sound the best he could. The playlist he selected was actually the one he had of songs that reminded him of his beloved. Copying what Y/n had done last night, he held out his hand.

“Come on, dance with me, My Darling.”

Douxie twirled Y/n around in the night breeze that blew through the trees. This song was much faster than the one they danced to last time, and there was more energy between them. Y/n’s laugh echoed through the forest. This was a lot of fun, she could do it all night. Honestly, she could do anything all night if it was with Douxie. He lifted her up, like she weighed nothing. Seriously, how strong was this noodle armed wizard. She threw her arms around his neck, looking down to meet his eyes, a rare thing. Y/n kissed his nose, eliciting a happy giggle from his mouth.

He should have put her back down by now. Instead, he still held her up, transfixed by her face ringed in moonlight, like a halo. She noticed the awestruck look on his face, kissing him properly, yet it did nothing to pull him out of his stupor. He had one thought running over and over in his mind. Marry me. But, he couldn’t say that. A proposal had to be special, not after a waffle house date. Their first date, mind you. He couldn’t possibly jus-

“Marry me, Dewdrop?”

Well apparently he couldn’t but she absolutely could.

It took him a moment to take in her words, shocked out of his overthinking. The biggest grin spread across his face as he giddily spun her around in his arms. He finally put her feet back on the ground, crashing his lips into hers. Y/n brought a hand up to drag through his hair and left the other to slide down his back. No battle for dominance, Douxie’s tongue was definitely the one leading here. He just couldn’t believe it. It was if she had read his mind. It was still hard for him to believe she wanted him in the first place, but this much? If this was the afterlife he must surely be in heaven. One makeout session later, Y/n rasped “So I’m guessing that’s a yes?”

“Let’s sign the papers tomorrow.”

~ ~ ~

Despite the uneasy feeling they had both had about leaving Nari alone for so long, she was perfectly fine. In fact she hadn’t even moved an inch form the spot they left her in. Like they never left at all. Archie was asleep on that couch, as peaceful as ever. They’d tell him the news in the morning.

Y/n climbed into the nest and dragged Douxie down with her. After getting comfy on the array of cushions, he opened his arms and she nestled into his chest. She could feel his hands rest on her back. Perfect. It was calming, listening to his heartbeat, being lulled to sleep with the rhythm that gave proof that her beloved was alive. A steady beat that reassured her he was there, he was there. He wouldn’t leave her again.

*** check notes for chapter illustrations lmao

[suffering-and-happy-about-it]

The Ecstasy (Favored Ones, Part 14.)

Series description: Many things were surely fucked up in the year 2038, but no-one ever told anyone how all of it went down. What happened before a group of people left for Seattle to handle personal matters? Why did one girl refuse to leave all of it be? And why there were so many dead in the end?

Part summary: Sometimes, there are no words needed when someone really means it with you. When they love you, they don’t have to say a word, but a single action is all it takes to make you sure about that.

A/N: The chapter is happening at the same night when Dina kissed Ellie, at the same dance, in the same hall and in front of the same people... AND SETH IS BEING A FUCKING CUNT. Enjoy the last chapter before the storm comes to Jackson... And if you think that everyone’s cool about the relationship... Just wait on the Reverse card we’ll pull over the time.

Word count: 5.3 K

Tagging:  Tagging:  @nemodoren @xxgoldenhour @missdictatorme​​ @peakymarvels​​ @davnwillcome​ @pickleriiick​ @jodiereedus22​ @gladiosamicitias​ @tamkashi​ @eternallyvenus​ @avengerssstuff​ @fangirl-inthe-us​ @avery-miller​ @mikah-writes​ @mad-hatter-98​ @sadiaafrin99​ @flavorishy

Series master list: H E R E (Inspired by Bon Iver’s & St. Vincent’s Rosyln and Ecstasy by the Crooked Still)

Joel Miller’s playlist for the bonfire occasions: H E R E

Youtube playlists: JACKSON DAYS | SEATTLE DAYS

The spring of 2038, one night before the incident:

The talk about patrols was too long for you to care about. And since there was a dance that day, you rather chose to go there with Ellie way sooner than going to the boring meeting where you'd listen to Tommy, Joel, and Jessie laying into each other the whole fucking evening.

You, both you and Ellie, had been drinking, sometimes dancing with the smaller kids for good laughs. Dina, freshly broken up with Jesse, was there too, dancing all over the place. The two of you, you and Ellie, were just at the bar to have some good bourbon and beer, looking into the crowd. - "How’re things lately? Haven't spoken to you in a while."

That was right. Ever since your thing with Joel started, you've been distancing from your friends. Not because you'd want any piece in his and Ellie’s shared drama or because you didn't like to hang out with the group anymore, you were just... Too busy to hang out with them lately. Mostly because you spent all the free nights in his bed and other times, you were on patrols. So yeah, Ellie and you didn't talk for a while. Truth be told, you missed your best friend very much. But you couldn't tell her a single about you and Joel... Spending time together, so it wasn’t easiest to look her in the eyes either.

Also, there was this whole situation about the winter - it was already March and it still was snowing, there were blizards and huge snow storms almost every week. So, everyone was doing their best to supply the city - whether it centered around taking care of the animals or taking extra patrols. This situation was on ever since February. 

"Busy. All I can say is that things are busy now. How ’bout you and Dina? Any new developments in the current situation?" - You smiled slyly, giving Ellie one of your encouraging looks, having the green-eyed girl smiling and blushing all of the sudden. As it was usually when she got nervous, the tip of her boot was tapping the wooden dancefloor as she thought about what she wanted to say.

You had Jessie and Dina’s newest break-up on your mind. Everyone knew that this couple is pretty fiery, arguing and breaking up the whole time just to be together the following week again. But when you saw Jessie in the dining room and talked to him briefly, this one was feeling different than the other ones. You didn't know how serious relationships work, yet he was uncomfortable when you asked about her.

"I think it's just one of their motherfucking pauses again. My bet is two weeks before they get back together and I’ll go fuck myself again." - Ellie hissed while watching Dina jumping around in Daniel’s arms, laughing all over the hall.

"You're doing it again and it's making me fucking pissed." - You muttered out, putting the empty glass on the bar, asking for a bottle of beer. - "Thinking about yourself as of a third wheel or shit. You're not a third wheel Ellie and to me, you'll never be one." - You sighed, leaning your head into her shoulder while closing your eyes.

"I missed you telling me this sort of stuff, baby." - She sighed with a soft smile, leaning her cheek to the back of her head. Yeah. You missed them too. With Joel, you weren't that crazy and loud girl who would curse in every sentence - it wasn't that he didn't like that, you just felt calmer when he was around. But you needed to be that person from time to time. - "I missed telling you this sort of stuff, hun."

At that, you saw Jesse finally entering the building. You just knew from Jesse’s look that Joel was telling him something again, there wasn't a word that Jesse has to say for both of you to know that. This time, he seemed more pissed than usual, but that could be caused by his break-up, so you didn't immediately jump to the conclusion to talk with Joel about it.

"Uh, ever told you that you're hot when you're pissed?" - You asked, having Ellie whistle for you. Jesse chuckled sourly at that poor compliment, telling you that you should go fuck yourself without using words.

"You're not too cool to spend time with your friends now, huh?" - He grinned back, making a point. After you scoffed ironically, you gave him a look.

"I was always way cooler than you'll ever be, young man. Now excuse me, I will be talking to the adults for a while, letting you guys play with your mud pies." - Was the last thing you told Jesse before patting his back with an honest smile, already nodding at Maria. It was obvious, at least to you, that you just wanted to take a look at Joel when you'll be walking to cool auntie in the corner of the room. And to be honest, the man was leaning his elbows to a table while talking to another man from Jackson, checking your location almost every twenty to thirty seconds.

And when you finally were patting Jesse’s back after winning your little pissing contest, he suddenly shifted to sit more straight, taking in what you had on. The shirt he loved, the jeans which made your ass irresistible to not to stare at, and a pair of the same cowboy shoes that Dina girl had. You once got them in one shoe shop during scavenging for supplies in a nearby city. And ever since, these were your go-to shoes for a dance.

Joel wasn't looking too bad himself either, you had to say. His hair was still way too long, his beard was messy, but boy-oh-boy, that khaki brown leather jacket screamed danger all the way around. And of course, there was this well-known blue shirt you wore a million times during the nights you spent at his place. It was nice of him to remember such small details.

If you weren't smiling practically all the time, it would be obvious that there are some sparks in the air when you walked around the table. You sent him a nod first, raising the bottle of beer you've been holding in your palm.

"Mr. Miller." - You smiled and winked at him before the other man even noticed.

"Miss Y/L/N." - Joel nodded back with a serious face, taking off the imaginary hat to tip you. That made you chuckle when you continued on your way to Maria.

There were two persons Joel wanted to talk to about you and what on Earth should he do with himself. The two people being Ellie and Tommy, his choice was fairly obvious. Tommy wasn't the best source of information either, yet it was better than nothing. All Joel had told him was that he was seeing a woman from Jackson that caught his eye - that they're spending some time together and that she recently told him he had some feeling for him, and not knowing what to do, he came to talk to his younger brother.

Tommy, who was genuinely surprised by this piece of information being finally confirmed, widened his eyes at that. Joel wanted a piece of dating advice from someone? Did he have some heart inside the survivor’s chest? First of all, Tommy didn't spare a moment to tell Joel she must be crazy to want to be with him, laughing at these words. The other thing he told his older brother was that if he wants to show her that he is sure about caring for the woman, wanting to be with her, he would not have a better chance than to ask her for a dance in front of everyone.

A slow one, of course. And that was what Joel was planning to do, just waiting for the right song to play. And that was why Tommy and Maria were excitedly watching Joel the whole evening. So far, nothing had happened. They placed their bets on Bobby, mom of your dead friend Harry, and Sandra, a woman who was working with horses.

"You guys seem to be super-excited about something tonight. Should I be worried?" - You furrowed at the couple, having a nervous laugh at the end. Tommy dismissed it with shaking his head, still having his brother at the corner of his eye, not knowing that not even five minutes from that moment, Joel will ask you for a dance.

"Don’t be worried, honey. It's about this little bet, nothing to worry about." - Maria chuckled, leading the conversation while Tommy was spying on Joel. - "You're looking good tonight. Trying to impress someone?"

"Of course, I was dressing up for you the whole evening, wondering what you'll tell me about these beautiful shoes." - You tipped your leg at that, showing her the shoes she had seen at least a million times before.

"She's lying, she’s trying to impress me because we've been secretly dating for a while now." - Tommy chimed in, kissing Maria on her cheek. Tommy and his sense of humor... That was something you had to get a hang on before you knew what should offend you and when he's just ducking around with you. This was the other case of the spectrum. But if you'd told him that you're sleeping with Joel, he’d go nuts or dismiss it as a dumb joke - there was no other ending to this statement. But you just gave him one of your looks. - "But even tho I saw these shoes a million times, they make me always go wild."

"Keep on dreaming, old guy, I'm all about Maria these days. How you're doing? Haven't talked to you in a while?" - You asked, starting a chit-chat with Maria only. Tommy usually didn't talk about the girly stuff, as he called it, he was all about jokes and when you were sad, he was the man to give you an emotional support speech. That was why you liked these two so much. While Maria was someone who could kick ass, Tommy was mostly the goofy guy everyone liked to hang out with. When the first and probably the last song of the night started playing, both of them suddenly snapped, looking around like crazy.

"You see him somewhere?" - Tommy whispered to Maria, having her shaking her head. The man with the bun suddenly shut up and watched his brother walking to their group with that cold-facade look on his face, although it was obvious that he's only trying his best to stay calm. Was Joel into Maria? Oh, if he was, Tommy would kick his damn ass for having the audacity to ask him for a piece of advice.

Yet at that moment, Maria noticed Joel's looking at someone in front of the couple. At their back, to be specific. He was looking at the back of the confused girl who was standing in front of them and had a chit-chat with them. Well, that was wild. Wild if you'd ask her.

"Y/N, would you maybe care for a dance?" - Joel mumbled when he finally stopped in front of your back. Both of the people you've been facing could notice that you stiffened suddenly, not knowing what to think. Your mouth opened up, eyes widened and you even had that small wrinkle between your eyebrows. Slowly, you turned at Joel, looking at the couples chiming onto the dancefloor. He had never danced to a slow song with anyone, even if it was a woman’s choice. Nobody made him.

"Joel, what are you after? What do you mean? Here? Now? In front of everyone? Are you crazy?" - You mumbled out, looking at the old man taking your bottle of beer, giving it to Tommy as he took your palm, leading you between all of the people without answering you. When first people started to notice both you walking around the tables, you heard first whispers and the weight of the words looks was making you feel very much unsafe.

You were walking behind Joel, yet the man felt your palm getting seriously sweaty with each passing second. The air was too hot for you to breathe as your cheeks were on fire as well, everyone suddenly knew your darkest secret. Maybe not the darkest, but the biggest. It was out just like that. Tears were making your eyes watery and no matter how hard you tried, you couldn't see Joel.

"I mean what I've said. All I want is a dance." - The man answered once you've walked to the middle of the dancefloor. You've been wonderstruck and fucking afraid. There was the same void in your head as in the moment you accidentally slipped the tea about your emotions. For a while, Joel was worried that he maybe took the things too far.

Everyone could see you and bet your ass people have been watching you with shock.

Someone like you, a young girl, was expected to marry a young man, to have kids and family, and to continue the cycle life was. And even though, you and Joel were there, looking at each other, showing everyone that there something fishy going on. Tommy couldn't speak for at least a minute and Maria’s mouth slowly widened into a smile. Even Jesse stopped for a while when he realized what he's looking at.

Nervously, you stepped away to keep the social distance between you and him. It didn't mean much since as soon as Joel had the chance, his arm circled your waist pulling you so close that your body copied his. At that moment, when you were sure he can't see you, you smiled and bit your lower lip. If you wanted some kind of statement as a follow-up to the situation occurring inside his bedroom, this was it. There wasn't anything much more to do tell the others that you and Joel are a fucking thing. It wasn't exactly I love you, but it was stating that you belong to the man in some way or another.

"The rumors will be... Oh, God." - You mumbled to his ear, finally circling his shoulder with his arm to be sure he won't let go just like that. After that, you leaned your temple there, feeling safe. People were looking. They were. And why the fuck should you care?

"I'm kinda good at gettin’ a hang of these, baby girl." - Joel answered the comment, having you raise your head with a beaming smile. So, now it was kinda official, you guessed. He was your man just as much as you were his girl.

When you looked him in the eyes, you both got serious, quite staring at each other before leaning in to share a kiss. It wasn't just that peck on the lips, it was full-blown kiss where you tangled your fingers into his hair, tugging it to keep him close for a while. It was the one where you stopped even dancing so you could feel the other one. And Joel tugging you even closer by putting a hand on your waist? That was even better.

When it ended, there was a smile on your face and your cheeks were on fucking fire. - "People will tell me that I'll go to hell for this." - You whispered, putting your face into the crook of his neck while moving along with the flow of the song. Your arms were circled his shoulders to keep him close. At the remark about hell, Joel chuckled dryly.

"I'll see you there, then." - The man whispered, gently kissing your temple before exhaling out loud. It was a long time when he danced with someone. It was almost two years when he last time danced with Ellie for fun - it was before the outbreak the last time he danced someone because he felt something for them. Maybe it was when Sara’s mom was still alive... But it was completing something inside Joel. He was a lonely soul that would beg just to be loved by someone like you.

Fucking? That was great. But to be honest, since night one, Joel was sure that this won't take too long before you get bored with him. Instead of getting bored with Joel, you accidentally told him that you're in love and that you were in love for a long time. Which made him feel... Necessary in someone's life. That was a thing Joel needed - whether it was the girl he adopted or her friend who made an old fool in love out of the roughest survivor in Jackson.

And it seemed that you completely got the message even if you didn't hear the words he was trying to say. And of course, as all of Joel's happy moments, something had to fuck up just right after everything got good for a second. You saw someone stepping into the crowd, so first, you let Joel abruptly go, feeling the panic inside raising as you waited for the punishment.

But to your surprise, it was Seth stepping to Dina and Ellie, telling them something. It was hard to make out what is happening there, but before you could stop Joel, he was already walking there. You tried to catch his forearm and stop him... But even though you two were together, you couldn't stop him from taking care of his daughter.

"Oh, just what this town needs." - Seth told Dina’s back when the girls were leaving. It looked that if you'll be lucky, Joel won't even insert himself in there. The old jackass was drunk as well. If you hated someone in Jackson with passion, it was that wrinkly ballsack. Seth and you never had a personal problem with each other, yet there were moments when Ellie and he did; so naturally, you took Ellie’s side in this. - "Another loud-mouthed dike."

And with those words, you closed your eyes and sighed, seeing Joel speeding up in from the place you were standing at. Right. As if one scandal for the night wasn't fucking enough.

"What the fuck did you just say?" - Ellie turned at her heels, pointing her finger at Seth. The expression in her face was blatantly obvious - all Seth ad to do was saying another wrong word and she would just fuck him up like that. Dina was holding her away from Seth, yet at that moment, the cavalry arrived. Joel pushed Seth back, looking him in the face. The atmosphere had tensed as the music stopped playing completely - the silence in the room was the loudest thing you've ever heard.

People were watching all five of you - you were nervously staying away from the men, not knowing what the fuck should you do, Joel was about to kick Seth's ass just like that and Dina and Ellie were watching what was happening.

"Get the hell outta here." - Joel warned the old ballsack in a quiet voice, expressing all the curse words he didn't tell Seth out loud. The ballsack walked right up to Joel, it was a wonder he didn't spit in his face, straightening himself. This was getting real bad real fast. - "Get your hands off me!" - Seth gritted through his teeth. Yeah, it was time for you to go there. Maria and Tommy had the same idea.

Your heart stopped at the moment as you quickly ran behind your old man, circling his shoulder with your arm. Maria stepped between the two men, Tommy having her back from the other side. Ellie was too angry to notice that you're trying to pull Joel away, and not because you didn't want him to fuck Seth up, but because you were worried for Joel.

"Hey! Enough! Come on, you. Let’s go for a walk." - She tugged Seth away with Tommy, nodding at you to drag away Joel. You nodded back, trying to catch the man’s attention - but when Joel was in his protect Ellie mode, nothing could make him calm down. Both Maria and Tommy talked with Seth, taking him away and at that moment, Joel’s attention shifted to Ellie to check if she and Dina are okay. You were just standing there, being completely ignored by the man.

"You alright, kiddo?" - He asked silently, being extremely vulnerable at that moment. Again, you were watching how the situation will go, letting him and Ellie talk. You hoped for the best, which would be, in the ideal scenario, them not fighting in front of all these people. Ellie’s expression immediately told you that it's not the case.

"What is wrong with you?" - She asked boldly, furrowing at the old man.

"He had no right," - "And you do? I don't need your fucking help, Joel." - Oh, she hit the sweet spot at that exact second. The sweet spot of him being someone who will always help her, accept for who she was, to be her guardian and father until the end of his days. You could tell how was he feeling just by the way his shoulders had dropped. She hurt him - all Joel wanted was to see her being alright, but she could be so fucking stubborn. Usually, you loved that about your best friend, but you were torn at the moment.

While she was your best friend who was with you in the best and the worst, Joel was someone... You loved. And even if you'd like to stay there with Ellie at the moment, this time, you had to reevaluate your priorities on Joel. - "Right." - Was the only thing Joel muttered out before he left the room as well. While he was walking away, you stood there for a second, looking at Ellie with your eyebrows knitted, expression full of sadness.

Her look fell on you almost immediately. It took a while when you looked at each other and in the end, it had Ellie rather confused. She has never seen you so uncomfortable after some scandal happened. You two usually laughed and mocked the shit out of Seth together - but this time, your eyes were full of worries, your mouth was slightly opened and you were fidgeting your fingers at a fast pace. In the end, you shook your head and followed Joel outside.

"Hey! Stop, please!" - You screamed after him, fastening up, having people turn after you. The only thing Joel did was that he looked over his shoulder at you. - "Come on, Joel." - You begged, finally catching the hem of his sleeve in your palm. When you pulled it, he finally stopped. His breath was shallow, his eyes were looking everywhere except you.

"Hey, hey, hey." - You whispered, circling your hands around his jaws, making him look at you. A small smile appeared on your lips. As the adrenaline rush fell out of your body, the usually nicely warm march night felt cold. - "Hi there, big guy."

"I'm not in a mood for this now, okay?" - Joel put your hands off your face, giving a cold look to everyone who was just staring at the two of you.

"Mood for a talk? Joel... You shouldn't insert yourself into that." - You whispered, following him once he decided to continue his way home. Instead of answering you, he just inhaled, closing his eyes for a second. And even if he was mad like crazy, when he saw you trembling, he circled his jacket around your shoulders.

"I had to stand behind Ellie. I don’t expect you to understand." - He turned at the end of the street, walking forward, not caring if you're still following or not.

"She’s adult just as I am. She doesn't need your help when something goes down. She’s not fourteen anymore." - You answered Joel. When he stopped, you thought it’s good - his eyes were as dark as the night and even his finger was pointed at you in the next second. He was mad. And not only at Seth and Ellie, now you were on the list as well.

"You’ve never had a kid, you never lost them and you don't know how it's like to be worried that you'll lose them. I will protect the girl until the day I die, you understand that?" - Joel gritted through his teeth. Well, the first couple-fight was there. Yet Joel forgot that you can be a stubborn asshole as well.

"I never lost a child, Miller, but my parents were both bitten and shot. I was fucking seven and I have seen every single second of the execution before Marlene pulled me away. And now, when I open up to someone because I like them, there's this fear I have every single moment I'm awake. I’m worried about losing them. You think you're such a know-it-all, Joel, don't you? But guess what. You should shut up sometimes and listen to the others when they speak. Ellie doesn't want your help so just accept it already. Stop living in the past, will you?" - You mumbled and then walked to his house, having the man behind you the whole time.  

His house became your home some time ago. You had a portion of your stuff there since you started sleeping with Joel, sometimes you just picked up some clothes or hygiene in there, but the time you spent there alone was dull and lonely. So it was kinda natural that you wanted to go to Joel’s house when you were mad and wanted to feel safe.

You knew that Joel won't follow you to the bed, so you threw his jacket on the couch, running the stairs to lock yourself in the bathroom. You couldn't know that while you were there, Ellie and Joel were having a conversation on the terrace. Ellie talked about the incident in the diner, about Seth and Dina, suddenly changing the topic to what happened in Salt Lake.

"I just..." - Ellie whispered, putting her palms to fists, being torn apart on the inside. - "I don't think I can ever forgive you for that." - She looked at the profile of his face, watching Joel play around with the mug of coffee. When she said that, it was visible that Joel was panicking, feeling hurt - his breath shallowed again, his eyes started to wander around and at one moment, he stood up just to lean back into the railing. He nodded almost invisibly.

"But... I would like to try." - Ellie told him, holding the railing in her palms. Her voice was shaking. This girl wasn't the one to cry, but she wasn't too far from sobbing at that moment. Thit was highly uncomfortable, but it was crushing her not to have Joel but the ber side. Even if Joel didn't look at her directly, it could be felt in the shifting tone that he's feeling safer with each passing second.

"I'd love that." - Joel answered honestly. He would hug her or look at you, but he was having tears in his eyes, so he rather leaned into the railing and smiled into the mug. Ellie waited there for a second, nodding to herself. This was something that could save their relationship.

"Okay... Okay... So... You and Y/N? Is she here?" - She asked, looking into the pitch darkness inside the house. How could something like you starting a relationship with Joel could slip past her? How? Joel didn't answer, but his smug widened a bit as he chuckled. Ellie was chuckling too, holding the railing in her had, rocking herself on her heels. - "She is. Already sleepin’, probably."

"Be nice to her and take care of her for me, will you? Or I’ll fucking kick your motherfucking ass, old man. She's an amazing girl, one of the best I've ever met." - Ellie smiled, making a few small steps off the terrace. Joel finally looked at his baby girl, his eyes telling everything his words didn't. - "So, I'll see you around, I guess."

Joel was on the terrace for quite a long time. He was sitting there, playing with his guitar. He was happy, so fucking happy. He and Ellie made a truce, which meant that these two maybe will have a future. Yet you were still pissed with him. He fucked up. He indeed fucked up. Joel should know better than talking to you when he was pissed, telling you such things.

Around three in the morning, he finally stood up and went to the bedroom, seeing you sleep on your side of the bed, being all curled up to a small ball under the blanket. Joel took off the jacket, climbing on the mattress after you, finding your hip somewhere under the blanket, pulling closer to your back.

"Ugh, I'm mad at you, let me sleep." - You mumbled a bit angrily, trying to take his palm off of you. But he didn't give up after that, gently kissing the back of your neck. smoothing your lower back. - "Hey, I told you to leave me be. What are you after?" - You turned your face to look at him, obviously being still half-asleep. Joel just smiled, kissing your shoulder dressed in a t-shirt.

"I wanted to tell you that I'm sorry." - The man whispered, putting his palm on your outer thigh, drawing small circles there, kissing your shoulder again when he ended the sentence. - "That you were right." - Joel continued and did the same thing again. - "That I had no idea about what happened with your family. And that I was acting like a fucking asshole. Again." - After that, he left his nose inside the fabric of your t-shirt, watching your face with these dark eyes of his.

There was a small moment of silence when he was just rubbing your thigh to relax you a bit. When you were done with thinking, you shook your head, turning your head away from him. - "This could so wait until the morning, Miller." - You mumbled, putting your head on the pillow under you, now at least holding his palm on your thigh. The apology seemed to be accepted. So it was time for Joel to continue to encourage your patience with him.

"I don't think it would wait until the morning." - The man whispered, gently biting the top of your shoulder while his hand gently palmed your ass, skillfully slipping under your shorts.

It was three in the fucking morning and this man just wanted to apologize in the best way he could. Yet for you, it was three in the morning and all you wanted to do was to fucking sleep.

"Joel, this can wait, come on." - You tried to wiggle out, yet he was quicker and disappeared under the blanket in the next moment. And his arguments in form of gentle kissed on both your inner thighs and his palms gently tugging the t-shirt above your boobs were making you convinced that you want it too actually and that it really couldn't wait until the morning.

To see the man between your legs, you pulled the blanket off of him, raising yourself on your elbows. Having you cooperate in such a way made Joel chuckle with small devilish shining in his eyes. Without another word, you let Joel take off the shorts while rising your ass into the air.

As soon as he dived in, you had to say that he was utterly right. This couldn't wait until the morning.

[vincenthousman]

All the dogs are just as guilty.

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[ao-no-exorcist-imagines]

Can I request a fluffy oneshot about Rin Okumura and shy female S/O spending a day at the amusement park together? 🥰🥰💖💖 please?? 😁😁 I really love to see more flustered Rin!! 🥰💖

The wind rustled against your uniform, sending a chill through your spine. It could've been the air, or your anxiety. It was summer though, so anxiety seemed like the better answer.

You both held hands, walking into the park. You first headed towards a food stand, and got a bag of cotton candy and a soda. Maybe it wasn't such a great idea to eat before riding rides, but you didn't really care. You wanted something sweet.

At first Rin didn't seem very interested in his ride choices, ferris wheel and tilt- a - whirl were his first choices before he stood in front of a bigger ride. It was a medium sized roller coaster, a few drops but they weren't very big, so you agreed.

You both buckled yourselves in as the carnie started the ride. At first it was a calm ride, until you hit the drop offs. The drop was so abrupt your head kept hitting off the seat of the coaster, and by the end of the ride you were both quite dizzy.

You unbuckled yourself before plopping on a bench, and nearly falling off. Rin laughed at you, apparently it was funny to him, but it wasn't funny to you.

You turned away from him and pouted, which caused him to stop laughing. " oh come on babe I'm sorry."he whined before wrapping his arms around you and kissing your forehead. You leaned against him before you both decided to go on another ride.

You stood in line for what seemed like centuries at the main attraction. It was a very tall and lengthy coaster, with many drops, curves, loops, and tunnels.

Finally it was your turn. You buckled in, and grabbed Rin's hand. The ride began slowly, going uphill before evening off. And then it happened, the drop off. You burrowed yourself into his chest and he wrapped his arms around you, and started petting your head.

The roller coaster went through many loop da loops before evening out again into a tunnel. The tunnel even off into many loops and one last drop. Finally, the ride ended, you filled with terror.

You stumbled off the ride, holding onto rin before walking towards the center of the park, and there stood the one and only, Bon, Shima, and Konekamura. Rin waved at them before rushing over to them.

You stood behind him, awkwardly rubbing you arm. They all said hi to you, and you squeaked out a measly little "hi." Rin talked to them for what seemed like forever before taking you out for some funnel cake

[spookyfloof]

A Mistletoe Too Far - (LizardHat Christmas story)

Villainous/Hazbin Hotel crossover

---

I wrote this as a Christmas present to @striped-menace last year but never got around to posting it on here.

Summary: Someone plays a Christmas-themed prank on Black Hat, but of course he has the last laugh.

Rating: M (explicit sexual content)

Note: No HH characters are specifically mentioned, but they are referenced. 

---

Black Hat squinted at the offending plant perched above him. Who would actually be stupid enough to hang mistletoe in his manor? 

The three likely culprits stood around him; Dementia delighted, Flug frightened, and 505 simply surprised.

Their boss’s eyes grated in their sockets like rusty metal on tarmac as he looked to each of them in turn. 

Flug wouldn't dare. But the other two...

“Oh bon-bon! I thought you hated mistletoe~,” Demencia cooed as she fluttered her dark eyelashes.

His teeth flashed an unmistakable warning.

“Do not start...” he growled, “Take it down.”

“Of course, sir! Right away!” Flug squeaked and beckoned his beloved blue bear to snatch it from the ceiling.

When he did, the scientist crumpled it in his hands and threw it in a nearby trash bin, even going so far as to set the bin on fire with one of the many conveniently placed blowtorches.

“Taken care of, sir!” he said with a gulp, “Anything else we can do for you?

Black Hat crossed his arms and again scrutinized his admittedly motley crew of employees. Demencia pouted at the burning trash but even she and the idiot 505 knew better than to try something like this.

“No,” he grunted out finally. “Get back to work.”

Once he disappeared from the room, Flug nearly fainted into 505′s side. It was too early for this...

“You didn't put that up, did you?” He asked under his breath and the bear shook his head.

“Brawr?"

"I thought so."

He spotted Demencia about to slip out of the room but yelled after her.

As she heard her name, she rolled her eyes and clicked her tongue, but refused to turn around.

“What?”

“Why on Earth did you do that?! I knew you were insane but I didn't know you had a death wish!?”

She whipped around and glared. “What are you talking about?”

“You know exactly what! Hanging the mistletoe over Black Hat!"

She scoffed. “I didn't do that.”

“Of course you did.”

She squared her shoulders as she got closer to him. Despite himself, he backed away, but she pushed him in the chest with one gloved finger. 

“No, bag boy, I learned my lesson last time.”

It was true. She'd tried to get their boss to kiss her by hanging mistletoe two Decembers ago and the result landed her at least two broken ribs and an entire wing of the manor in need of remodeling.

Flug studied Demencia's face for any trace of a lie but she didn't crack. If anything she wanted to crack his skull for accusing her. If she was gonna get blamed for something, it better be something she actually did. She had better ways to spend her time.

“It really wasn't you?” he asked, his tone still just as skeptical.

“Duh! It was probably you, asshole! You love to see me get in trouble.”

“Me?! I would never do something that stupid.”

She leveled her eyes with his and raised an eyebrow. "Oh yeah?”

“No!” he began but caught himself. He had tried framing her for pranks like this more than once...

Flug cleared his throat. “Fine. Maybe I have, but this wasn't me! I don't feel like dying today! Not a week before Christmas.” It was one of 505′s favorite holidays after all.

She rolled her eyes and sighed.

“Well somebody did and it wasn't me.” She emphasized the declaration by sticking her tongue out and walking away with her head held high, her long green hair curling on the floor behind her. “You two can figure it out among yourselves.”

It happened again the next day, and again the next. Only once on each day and only when Demencia happened to be in the room, but not a soul in Hat Manor had an answer for these appearances. No amount of threats or dismembering got Black Hat anywhere.

So he stopped acknowledging the mistletoe. He stopped yelling at his employees and robots. Wouldn't even spare the little piece of Christmas tradition a cursory glance. Any and all that manifested in his presence simply shriveled into a lifeless black husk that crumbled to ash upon his arrival.

And no one said a word about it.

It was two days until Christmas when Black Hat had finally had enough.

Early in the morning, before sunlight had even graced the horizon, he materialized into Demencia’s quarters. She slept strapped to her slab of a bed by mechanical arms. He flicked on a light and gazed around the dull room with something of a scowl on his face. He never came down here much. He had no reason to, and seeing how boring it was only reinforced that choice. The only notable decoration was a shrine with Black Hat’s picture in a heart shaped frame at the center.

He was sure he’d destroyed that already, but chose to let it be.

Black Hat cleared his throat.

“Demencia,” he called out to her sleeping form and she started to stir. She was a heavy sleeper.

He got close enough to touch her and watched as she twitched and murmured slightly in her sleep.

He leaned down to her pierced ear and tried again.

“Wake up!”

With that, she jolted awake.

“Wha! Black Hat! I didn’t do it!” she insisted with a slur before even laying eyes on her beloved.

“I have good news for you,” he said through a grin, “You’re going to help me.”

Demencia blinked in his direction and licked her dry lips. She realized she’d been drooling and tried discreetly to wipe her chin on the shoulder of her oversized t-shirt.

But the sound of Black Hat’s good news perked her right up.

“Anything for you, handsome,” she crooned and Black Hat did his best not to roll his eyes, though he did flick them up to the ceiling. Just as he thought, there hovering between Demencia and Lord Black Hat was yet another sprig of mistletoe.

His smile brightened at her.

“Wonderful. Now, I’ve been thinking... I haven’t been quite in the Christmas spirit lately and I think it’s time we fix that, hmm?”

Demencia’s head tilted as she looked at him, an eyebrow slightly cocked.

“Yes?”

“Good! I’m glad you agree!”

He wasn’t usually this enthusiastic about something unless it involved killing or taking someone’s soul.

“We’re going to start with that mistletoe there.” He gestured with his chin and her face lit up as she started putting the pieces together.

“You mean it?!”

She wriggled in her bonds with unabashed excitement.

He chuckled darkly. “I do.”

“We’re finally going to kiss?!” Demencia all but squealed.

“Yes. In a matter of speaking,” he said but didn’t elaborate, “Are you ready?”

And though Demencia didn’t fully understand, anything to do with Black Hat and her kissing had to be a good thing!

“I’m so ready!”

She then closed her eyes and pursed her lips the way she’d practiced countless times in preparation for this very moment. She knew it was only a matter of time before he returned her affection!

While her eyes were still closed, he moved towards the center of her “bed” and climbed up, moving her legs apart to position himself between them.

Demencia was actually blushing. “Black Hat? What are you doing?”

He lifted a finger to his lips to shush her before pulling up the hem of her shirt, revealing only a black and red thong underneath.

Her eyes incredulous and wide, she watched as one of his hands turned to claws and with a simple flick of his finger, tore the thong right off.

Black Hat gave her a smile dripping with saliva and lifted her legs into the air by her thighs. Without warning, his inhuman tongue snaked out from behind his toothy grin and took one long, thorough lick over the entirety of her vulva.

Demencia squeaked but didn’t dare to protest even if she wanted to.

So he latched his mouth to her pussy lips and went to town, his tongue wriggling over and between every fold and crevice between her legs.

Demencia found herself wishing she could move her arms but settled for clawing at the surface of her bed.

She moaned and black hat laughed, taking her response as an invitation to go further. His tongue buried itself deep inside her and she gasped. But something else was toying with her clit. She couldn’t see it, but it felt like another, smaller tongue, just as warm and slimy circling and teasing that bundle of nerves.

“Black Hat!”

She couldn’t take much more of this. She’d always imagined what this would feel like with him, but she never imagined he’d do it like this.

His tongue both managed to scrape over her g-spot and hug that spot deep inside her she could only reach with one of her specially ordered dildos.

She bit her lower lip, hard enough for the trace of blood to reach her tongue.

“Ah! Black Hat…I…Please!”

Possessed by the assault of pleasure, she squeezed her thighs around him and score claw marks into the bed. She never thought she’d see heaven, what with being a villain and all, yet here she was, Black Hat escorting her there as her very own grim reaper.

---

Far below the reaches of heaven, far below even the depths of Hat Manor, unknown to Demencia or even Black Hat – though he had a hunch – was a pale man with rosy red cheeks and a smile like a wood chipper sitting in bed in the tallest tower in Hell. Only he wasn’t smiling. Instead his nose crinkled and his lips pressed into a crooked frown. His yellow eyes were fixed on a glowing screen on the other side of the room.

Steam emanated into the room from the adjacent bathroom, along with the steady sound of running water.

Without looking away, he turned his head towards it and called out with unmistakable resignation.

“Honey?”

From the shower, a tall and graceful woman with long blonde hair and two daunting horns replied.

“Yes, dear?”

“Remind me to tell the servants to remove any mistletoe from the premises.”

She paused lathering her hair and he continued to stare at the screen.

“Why?” she asked, “You love mistletoe.”

He hesitated on an emotion…something like regret, but managed to tell her with conviction, “I’ve decided I prefer poinsettias.”