#Cause it sounds like Cyn is a doctor

[idledreams4]

guys did I tell y'all that I watched Murder Drones?

I don't think I did

But I did

I watched it

Like 2 weeks ago

And it was

So good

I love Cyn

Silly illy little planet eating doll creature

I also like J

I would be a disassembly drone

Anyway that's all.

[simplyirascible]

OC FFVII RP

@scelestrot Booted feet transitioned from cracked earth to freshly tended soil as she hefted the shoulder yoke—burdened with two buckets of water—across the low fence into the herb garden. The contents sloshed about, spilling only a little of the precious water as she deposited the buckets, yoke and all, onto the ground.

It was not long before the neighbor’s pair of hens and lone chocobo wandered close to the garden; the former poked their heads through the roughly hewn planks while the latter leaned over the top of the fence in expectation.

It was her own fault that the inquisitive trio had become beggars. A treat here and there to distract them from the lush green of her mother’s garden had earned her quite the following. She had their undivided attention anytime she passed near them with the yoke on her shoulders whether it was time to refill the tiny irrigation system or not.

And she did not disappoint.

From her left pocket she produced a small silver tin that was filled with a thin layer of sawdust and a pile of wriggling mealworms. “Alright ladies, no fighting okay? Elsa would be awfully upset,” she mused as she deposited the worms on the ground and the two hens tripped over one another to peck at the live bait.

A soft trill over her right shoulder pulled her attention back to the chocobo waiting none too patiently for his treat as well. “I haven’t forgotten about you.” From her right pocket, she produced a small bundle of greens and she was immediately serenaded with a chorus of Kweh! Kweh! She hurriedly dropped the bundle over the fence before he could take off a finger in his eagerness to get at the treat.  

With the trio thoroughly distracted she returned to filling the irrigation tank.

“Cyndollyn, my dear girl, you spoil them rotten!” The voice rang out from the porch in her neighbor’s yard and she looked up to find Elsa waving at her.

“I think I do it as much for me as for the garden these days,” Cyn replied sheepishly, shoulders lifting toward her ears.

Elsa’s smile was instant and warm but altogether too rehearsed to be entirely authentic. “Would you be a dear and fill their water trough as well? Oh, and my husband was looking for you--something about missing your monthly check-up. You should run along before he tracks you down.”

Ah yes, Dr. Lindhard’s routine exams. Joy.

Guilt swiftly overtook irritation and she forced a half-smile and a nod for Elsa.

Her family owed a debt to the Lindhard family that they could never repay. It was Dr. Lindhard that saved her from dying in the womb when her mother was barely twelve weeks pregnant; a fact Elsa brought up anytime someone questioned the need for a Shinra scientist in their small town.

Not that anyone in Erebus possessed the knowledge or education to refute it even if they wanted to. Cyn surely could not, but she had to wonder if monthly check-ups were really all that necessary now that she was a grown woman of twenty years. Surely after two decades, she would have shown signs of whatever condition had nearly caused her mother to miscarry so early in her pregnancy.

Alas, it was not her place to question. What was an hour of her time once a month if it kept her mother happy?

Once her chores were completed—both her own and Elsa’s apparently—she paused to deposit the yoke and buckets back in the tool shed. Though she had planned to spend her free afternoon practicing with the yoshiyuki hidden amongst her father’s old weapons, she begrudgingly made her way up the road to the more modern building that Dr. Lindhard practiced out of.

The three-story building was taller than any of the homes in the area and, despite its relative age, it did not possess the same sand-worn presence as others in the village. It must have suffered some form of erosion over a couple of decades, but for the life of her, she could not find a single stone or roof tile out of place.

Now was not the time for examining her distaste for the good doctor. She could stomach one more physical exam because this time next month she fully intended to be a new SOLDIER recruit and as far from this tiny town as possible. Grinding her molars together, she forced herself to grip the door handle and step inside.

She was greeted immediately by a young man in a white coat who ushered her into one of the exam rooms without a word. She did not recognize the new assistant, but that was hardly a surprise. Lindhard went through assistants faster than his chocobo gobbled down greens. She would have been more surprised if it were a familiar face guiding her to the scale in the corner and then onto the exam table.

Within minutes of the assistant’s absence the door flung open and the portly Dr. Lindhard hurried inside. “Ah, Cyndollyn, my favorite patient! It looks as though you’ve gained a couple of pounds. Have you been sneaking some of my wife’s famous sahagin jerky?”

Cyn’s arms crossed over her stomach self consciously but the good doctor carried on as if he did not expect an answer. “Could be some of the extra muscle you’ve put on carrying extra buckets of water for her instead. Let’s see that tongue, say AHHHH.”

The tongue depressor was in her mouth before she could utter a sound.

“Good, good. Follow the light.”

She squinted a little as light was abruptly shown in each eye and before she could blink the spots from her vision, he was already shoving a cuff around her arm.

“Let’s see what your blood pressure looks like and then I need a few blood samples.”

In a gesture that was far too familiar, he brushed a lock of burgundy hair from her shoulder where it had pulled free of her ponytail. “Looks like you may be due for another haircut my dear. And are you wearing the sunglasses I prescribed? Your lovely silver eyes are far too pale to be without protection in the desert.”

It was on the tip of her tongue to admit that she’d lost them in the clutter of her bedroom, but she did not want to sit through a lecture in addition to being poked and prodded with various instruments���and needles.

[lady-olive-oil]

Work Out: Prologue

AN: what up! I, Livvy, have finally written the prologue for my Florian fic and I hope you all enjoy it! I’m gonna try to have it reach to at least 15 chapters at best, if not shorter. As long as I can get it out, I think I’ll be good. Feedback is always appreciated as well; reblogs as etc. Let me know if you’d like to be apart of the Tag Squad!

Warnings: None...yet

Word Count: 1,635 [not bad]

Tag Squad: @themyscxiras || @sparklemichele || @designerwriterchic || @maddiestundentwritergaines

Most people on New Year’s Eve are out and about; with their families or choose to stay in the comfort of their own home. Yet for me, Genevieve or Geneva for short, I was the latter and was out partying with my friends into the wee hours of the night to ring in the new year. This year, 2018 to be exact, has been a rough one for me and I was in desperate need some of positive reinforcements. With starting my own personal training business; moving to New York City to be closer to my parents and going through a divorce, a huge change of scenery was just what the doctor ordered.

The neon club lights illuminated my rich mocha skin, as the music seemed to seep through my veins and control my moments. Moving to the beat and the rhythm with ease, without a care in the world. The vibe was alive in Marquee New York, and it was a great way to celebrate her move. I made sure to keep an eye out on my siblings; Donovan, Lucas and Leilani, all the while feeling free for the first time all year.

Most people weren’t close with their siblings like I am, seeing as though we were all close in age. Even though they were in the club either their friends, the ages were close. Nothing broke their bond and nothing ever will. That is until I got married and it shook the family to its very core on how it transpired in a year. Needless to say, it ended pretty rough but I got the last laugh.

“I’m so glad you came out tonight. We needed our girl out.” Cynthia encouraged as she handed me a glass of White Russian. Happily accepting the drink, I took a sip and went back to dancing as my 4C right coils moved in tandem.

She’s one of my best friends since college, and couldn’t get over the fact that I finally got out of her condo for once.

“We’ve never seen you this happy. It’s good to have our girl back.” Destiny nodded in agreement. It was a rarity to get these three together. Destiny and I, have also been best friend since the 4th grade.

“I know, I know. But listen it’s all good now, I’m here and I’m out. Plus my cousin said he wanted me to meet someone tonight. I just hope he listens to me though.”

“You even agreeing to meet a dude after filing for a divorce, is grand enough.”

“She’s right though. Hopefully Michael comes through for ya.”

They always had my best interest at heart, and I couldn’t have asked for better friends, who were like family to me to be there.

“Knowing Michael, whomever he knows, better be up to par. I just can’t see myself dating an actor, you know? You know how it all went with Jake, cheatin ass.”

I spoke as clearly as I could over the music, and  just kept on dancing. Next thing I knew, Twerk by City Girls came on and all hell broke loose. Dragging my friends to the middle of the dance floor and did exactly what the song instructed.

Having a circle form around us was nothing new. At all the gatherings, before she got married, they were the life of the party wherever they went.

“Mind if we cut in? Can’t have you two dancing alone.” Jonathan said in a smooth voice, knowing it did something to Cynthia. She happily obliged and was whisked away. Ryan soon came up as well and made Destiny giddy as a school girl.

“How yall just gonna take my best friends? Rude.” Seeing how much love my friends were getting was enough for me to get by. The love Johnny showed towards Cyn, and Ryan with Destiny, showed volumes. It made my heart flutter at the bond they had.

“Sorry Gen. We love them too ya know.” Ryan places a gentle kiss on upon my head before heading back to his girl. Leaving myself to dance by alone, till she got a text from Michael saying he made it to the club. Upon sending a reply, Donovan texted her saying he took the twins home. Feeling a sense of relief wash over.

“He’s here y’all. I gotta meet him upstairs in VIP.” Without missing a beat, the other four hightailed it behind me, up the stairs to see who my cousin was setting me up with. Accepting the VIP hand stamp from the bouncer, walking towards the group in the main area.

“For your sake, I hope he listened to you.” Cynthia snickered gently, causing Destiny to lightly tap her arm.

“Well, well well. If it isn’t my favorite cousin Geneva. What’s going on girl?” Michael said enthusiastically, giving her a hug.

“Better not let Donny and the twins hear you say that Mr. Superstar.” I chuckled softly, returning the hug and introduced my friends to him.

Michael always kept in touch with family no matter how busy he got. Whether it was movie deals; commercials or interviews, he made sure to keep in contact.

“Gen, you never told me your cousin was Michael B. Jordan!” Ryan exclaimed in a hushed tone in my ear. I thought it was implied.

“It’s not something I brag about constantly. I don’t need people bombarding me with questions on like; ‘is he single?’ Or ‘does he want a baby mama?’ I’m good fam.”

The more I explained it, the more it made sense. Even Michael nodded in agreement, before smirking a bit. Glancing at the party below, my mind was elsewhere during all of this.

“Listen cuz, it’s almost the new year and I know you’ve been through a lot.” He began his speech, just as Florian stood next to him.

“Yeah huh. What are you getting at Bakari?” Upon taking a sip of the new drink, I turned my attention away from the coward downstairs, to her Michael and his friend.

This man was huge. Like body on point; smile on 100, presence alluring and intoxicating. Just everything about him exuded dominance and power. The way the grey long sleeve cotton shirt, hugged his biceps in all the right ways. He just looked like a tall delicious looking, white chocolate teddy bear. Where have I seen him before?

“Geneva, I’m sure you know-” Michael was cut off abruptly, by our eager attitudes.

“Genevieve Shaw.”

“Florian Munteanu. Oh we’ve met before.” I had a smirk plastered on my face. Everyone, excluding him and Michael, was confused. The memory was coming back to me now, from the beginning of Creed II promo shoot.

I was hired, along with Cynthia, to do the makeup and therapy for the movie. That was so long ago I had completely forgot about it, clearly Florian hadn’t.

“You didn’t tell me, she was your cousin.” Florian’s thick accent, and yet slight arrogant facial expression reminded me why I didn’t go for his advances at first. He made a bet with her best friend Leon, that he could get my number by the time the Creed II press was over.

It didn’t work out because I overheard and stopped all the bull before it went down.

“I thought you knew. She is the reason why you aren’t hurting anymore.” Michael pointed out.

“True. No need to pull a hamstring.” The joking tone from Florian did nothing but increase the annoyance. The roll of my amber brown eyes was a notice enough.

“I told you I don’t date actors, and athletes. But since you’re my cousin I’ll indulge.” A slight shrug and a nod was enough for Michael. Then an idea came to mind, two could play that game.

“How about this, Munteanu. Follow me real quick.” Signaling him to follow me out the floor to get ready for the countdown. Hearing my friends and Michael’s cheer behind us.

Seeing all the women, and a few men, glance at him as he bobbed and weaved through the crowd to follow me, made me feel powerful a bit.

“Since the new year will happen in approximately 2 min, I’m feeling generous. What do you say to a bet? Sound familiar?” Sipping my champagne from the flute, while moving from side to side to the music, it got his attention.

“A bet huh? It does ring a bell. What did you have in mind?” There’s that smirk again. Get it together Geneva.

“If you’re actually interested in me, no bullshit and show initiative, maybe I’ll go out with you. I don’t move to new York to play games Munteanu. You may be fine, but you sure as hell ain’t about to waste my time. Deal?” With an arch of my left brow, I meant business.

He was shocked at how forward I was, but slightly turned on at the same time. He seemed like he was always up for challenge.

“Deal.”

He clinked his glass with mine as the countdown began at 10 seconds. The look in his eyes seemed eager as he inches closer to me, closing the distance between us. The height ratio was actually pleasant; 6’4 to 5’8. Thank god for platform heels. Feeling his body heat on mine at the final 5 seconds, I came up with a tactic.

“Happy New Year!!”

Florian thought he was gonna kiss me, but I stopped him by placing my hand on his chiseled chest. Causing a sweet laugh go escape my full lips.

“Slow ya roll. The bet starts now, happy new year.” Sending a wink his way, I left him there speechless and engulfed in confetti, fo join my friends back in the VIP area. Earning a high five from Cynthia and Destiny.

The year was going to be a good one.

[fanficmoi]

The Fool By The Seaside Chp.6

Jim McCartney was worried, his eldest son was ill and getting worse every day. He had a fever now, and it wouldn’t go down. He had no choice but to call a doctor, as much as it would strain his wallet. But the fact that Paul hadn’t gone to work in days was also a strain.

It was a new doctor, someone he hadn’t heard of before, but the card had arrived with the mail and he Jim had seen that he was cheaper than the others. Not cheap, but cheaper. The physician was called Dr. A.S. Klepios, and was supposed to arrive in a couple hours, while Jim was at work. Michael would receive him and show him to where Paul was. Jim only hoped it wasn’t anything serious.

Stuvartk and Cyneeah considered themselves John’s closest friends, yet they were still unable to raise the Merrow from his depression. He got like this sometimes, when his Uncail had died and when his mam had left the village for the second time. They lasted for a long time and were no good for John. stu had brought some paint and canvases to cheer John up, but the Merrow was not interested. And Cyn had brought along some books, the fantasy ones John enjoyed, but like with the paint John did not even look at them.

They had gasped when they had seen his bruises and healing cuts, but John would not tell them what happened. They knew some of it of course, the whole village was talking about. Crazy John had been away during storm and had returned covered in blood and holding a dead fish.

Speaking of the fish, “They found his family, John.” Cyn said, sitting on the edge of the put, her pink-red tail curled beneath her.

That made her friend’s head turn in her direction, the merman swallowed, “What was his name?”

Cyn’s brows furrowed as she tried to remember. Stu saved her trying when he said, “Ridire.”

John looked down with a dry chuckle, “Knight.” He said. Then, to the startlement of his friends, he burst out laughing, “He tried to protect me, can you believe that? That little fish, barely knew me, but there he was! Swimming around me like a fool, trying to protect me!”

Stu sighed, he knew this would be coming. John always broke down like this, but in a way it was a good thing, Stu prefered this manic version of his friend than the empty one he had been getting for the past few days.

Cyn was also ready for when John’s laughter turned to sobs and he launched himself into her waiting arms.

“It’s my fault!” He wailed, “He was there because of me!” His voice was broken, it pierced the air.

As it always, yet inexplicably, Stu and Cyn felt themselves grow sad as well. Their emotions exactly reflecting how John felt. Empathy wasn’t an ability the Merrow had, yet whenever John’s emotions were too strong, others in his vicinity found themselves feeling them too. Nobody could explain it, and if they could, they wouldn’t dare to.

Paul was feeling much better after the doctor’s visit, and the man hadn’t even prescribed him any medicine! Yet Paul had felt himself getting stronger and stronger every day for the past week, his fever and coughs gone. He was ready to go back to the beach. And to find John.

Mike had told him about how John hadn’t appeared those days ago, and Paul had been incredibly worried since. What if something had happened to him in the storm?

“You’ll be taking me with you, then?” A voice said, snapping Paul out of his thoughts.

Paul sighed as he tied his boots, “I don’t know, Mike. You said he didn’t show-”

“Yeah, ‘cause I was alone!” Mike rebutted, “Look, you promised me you’d introduce me to the creature, and now you’re feeling better.”

Paul held down the burst of anger that sprouted in his chest at the name ‘creature,’ reminding himself that he too had once been ignorant towards John. “Fine.” He sighed, “But if he doesn’t show, you leave.”

Mike grinned, “Aye, capt’n!”

Paul glared at him, his brother laughed.

John was alone that day, still holed up in his pit. He hadn’t washed his tail in the past week, still in mourning. His crying session with his friends had helped, but the remedy had been temporary. He knew what he needed, he needed to talk to his Paul. Paul would comfort him, Paul could touch his tail and make it feel better.

And by some sort of miracle, John then heart it. The sweet sound of his human’s voice. In an instant he was sitting up, his heart beating out of his chest. The first smile in days appeared on his face and he hurried out of his home, starting his Auntin in the process but not caring.

He ignored all the people looking at him like he was insane and swam away. He was going to talk to Paul again! He could tell him about Ridire, and Paul would have some wonderful way of making it better. Oh, he had missed his friend. Paul had a way of lighting up John’s heart in a way no other had even done before.

He was definitely grinning by the time he arrived at the surface, he burst out with a jump he was sure would impress Paul and then resurfaced with all his chest in view. He just hoped that when Paul saw his tail he wouldn’t be disgusted by the state of it. It didn’t look dirty, but it was.

John’s smile faltered when he noticed that Paul wasn’t, in fact, alone. There stood his human, laughing at the water that had splattered him when John had jumped, looking handsome as ever, but next to him was a less amused counterpart, dripping wet and clearly not liking it.

Paul waved and thanked himself for not bringing his guitar, the water would have surely ruined it. “Hello there, John!” John just looked at him with a tilted head, and Paul frowned. Then he looked behind him and remembered his companion, “Yes, right. Um, this is Mike.” He pointed behind himself, “My brother.” But then Paul noticed something, “John, what happened to your hair?” He asked, the hair looked nice but it was very unlike John.

John looked at him, feeling disappointed that Paul was not alone. “Friend died.”

Mike frowned and Paul gasped.

“Oh, John.” Paul said, getting into the water, “I’m sorry. I’m also sorry for not being here, I’ve been sick then there was the storm-”

“You is ill!?” John swam right up to Paul, making Mike move away, not that John bothered to notice. John grasped Paul forearms and raised himself up a bit more, his eyes alight with worry.

“No, I’m all better now.” Paul said, “Alright, John?” He put his hands on the others delicate looking cheeks, “Promise.”

John looked right into his eyes, and Paul felt himself once again falling under some sort of trance. And in that trance everything was forgotten, his brother behind him, the ugly storm that had had him worried for days, the money, everything. All he could think about was John, John, John.

The two just kept on staring until Mike cleared his throat. Paul didn’t hear it but it made John move his gaze away, which made Paul snap out of his pleasant trance.

Mike had also been staring at John. At his gills, his fins, his shiny skin. The creature was beautiful, it was captivating. He only wondered…”Where’s the tail?”

Paul looked back at him with a frown, “Mike…” He warned.

John sank further down into the water, taking his hands off Paul. His friend had brought along someone else, to see his tail? To touch it? Like John was some sort of exhibit?

Paul noticed John’s mood go down and raised his hand in a placating gesture, “He’s my brother, John.” He said, “He can be trusted.”

John looked away from Mike, “You want me to show tail?” He asked, if showing was that the brother wanted then there was no problem, but John would let only Paul touch him.

Paul smiled, “He won’t hurt you, John. But only if you feel comfortable with it.”

John felt uncomfortable with the almost hungry stare the brother was shooting him, but if it would make Paul happy. “For you.” He said. Then he sank down and swam to the rock.

Mike startled and unconsciously went to follow him but Paul put an arm out to restrict him. Together they saw as John burst out of the water and jumped onto the rock, his short hair sticking to his face in a delightful way and the bright sun making his tail shine, even dirty as it was.

Paul ignored his brother’s gasp and walked towards the rock, he was still worried about John. The merman looked off, and not just because of the haircut. He knew John wouldn’t talk with Mike standing right there so hopefully the lad would leave soon after he’d looked at John’s tail for a while.

He stepped up to the rock, “Can I?” He asked, gesturing to the space next to the Marrow.

John nodded his consent and Paul climbed up. Then John surprised him by laying his wet head on the human’s shoulder. Paul chuckled and rested his own head on the other, “You okay?” He whispered.

Recklessly ignoring the other human, John shook his head. “No.” He said.

Paul was suddenly overcome with a dire need to make his merman happy to again, to comfort him and reassure him. He took a closer look at his friend, noticing for the first time the bruises and healing cuts. “What happened to you?” He laid a hand on one of the bigger bruises on John’s side, “Was it the storm?”

John nodded, not lifting his head. “I is sleeping, waiting for you here. Storm caught up to me.”

Paul closed his eyes in regret, “Shit. John, I’m sorry. Can I help you with anything? Have you gotten those treated?”

John hadn’t, he deserved the pain for his stupidity. Killing Ridire and now making Paul feel bad, what a fuck up. But he didn’t say that to Paul, instead he asked, “Healer see you?”

Paul sighed at the lack of answer but nodded, “Yes, a new guy. He patched me right up.” He ducked down and looked into the merman’s captivating eyes, “I’m all good now, ‘kay? Promise.”

John smiled back at him. Once again their two gazes were looked, neither finding the will to look away. That is, until John felt a hand touching his tail.

As John recoiled in shook, Paul cursed and looked at where Michael was now standing on the water. He looked startled but his hand was still stretched out.

“Shit, I’m sorry,” He was saying, “I don’t know what came over me, Paul. I just, I had to-” His hand was once again stretched, “I had to touch it, it’s beautiful.”

Seeing John’s frightened face, Paul was overcomed by a terrible anger and jealousy. “Keep your hands off him!” He screamed, jumping off the rock and glaring down at his brother, “He’s mine!”

At this both Mike and John were startled. Mike at seeing his brother so angry, and John at the possessive tone.

Mike raised his hands and stepped away, “Look, I’m sorry, Paul. I just-”

Paul raised a fist, “Be quiet! You’ve done enough.” His eyes were inhuman, possessed. “Leave!”

Michael frowned but started to move away. He was for the first time truly scared of his brother. As he turned away he cursed the creature, it was the reason Paul was turning into this ugly thing. Mike hadn’t been able to control himself, you couldn’t put such a glorious thing in front of a person and not expect them to have a feel. Stupid fish.

Paul was quiet, but John could see that he was still fuming. The Merrow had curled into himself, not wanting to admit that the human was scaring him. “Paul?” He murmured hesitantly.

“What!?” He human screamed, not turning around.

The merman flinched and let out a hurt whine. “Paul.” He simply said, looking away.

And in a flash, Paul’s anger was gone. Then he was overcome with feelings of guilt at his outburst at his little brother and guilt for scaring John. He slowly turned around, his head spinning at all the conflicting emotions that had been running through it. “Damn. I, I don’t know what came over me, John.” He looked up at his friend, “I’m sorry. Hell, I need to stop being such an arse.”

Without looking at Paul, John offered a hand for the other to take and climb up beside him again.

With a weak smile, the human took it and climbed up. He then laid their intertwined hands together on the wet surface, “It’s been happening a lot lately, and I can’t explain it.” He shook his head, “Whenever Mike talks about you, I just feel so angry. And I’m hurting him, my little brother.” He looked up, “And now I scared you.”

John turned to look at him and rested another cold hand on top of his and Paul’s. “You not scare me, Paul. You could never.” He shuffled closer, “I will help you figure it out, yes?”

Paul leaned close, “Thank you.” He whispered. “But I am still sorry, I have no business talking about you like that. You’re not mine, John. I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable.”

The merman felt himself blush, once again an impossible thing seeing as he wasn’t warm blooded but there it was. “I, I not mind.” He ducked his head, “I liked.” He wasn’t lying, the words had shot a pleasant shiver through him. If only the tone hadn’t been so angry and cruel.

Paul snickered with an amused smile, his spirit leaping. “You did, did you?”

John curled his tail with a smile of his own, still not looking up but nodding.

Paul leaned closer and raised the merman’s chin with a gentle hand. The he leaned in to whisper in his friend’s ear, “You’re mine.” Smiling at the high pitched sound the other made, he continued, “and I’m yours, Johnny. I promise.”

John could take no more, he moved Paul’s head away from his ear and pushed his lips against the human’s.

Now it was Paul who made the startled sound, but he soon closed his eyes and kissed back. The merman’s lips were wet as expected, but they were not cold and were beautifully soft. Paul risked running his tongue along John’s sharp teeth, and was happy when the other willingly opened his mouth up to him.

They kissed for what felt like ages, but Paul soon felt a need for air, although John didn’t seem to have that problem. The merman’s tail was curled around Paul’s legs, the caudal fin barely touching the water.

Regretfully, Paul separated them. “Sorry, Johnny. I need air.”

John gasped, “Oh, I’m sorry, Paul. I didn’t know.”

Paul laughed and rested a hand on the part of the merman’s tail that was resting on his lap, “That’s alright.”

John briefly looked away, then looked back with wide eyes. “Do you have air now?”

Paul chuckled and rubbed his new lover’s tail, “You’re insatiable.” He said.

John leaned closer, “I not know what that means.” He whispered.

Paul smiled, “It doesn’t matter.” And he kissed John again, and again, and again.

Neither of the two were aware of the sad figure that was looking at them from the ocean. She sighed and turned away, if only the two lover’s had listened to the signs. They had no idea what pain would now rain upon them...

[tkmedia]

14 Fingering Tips You’ll Want to Remember the Next Time You Have Sex

Many of us viewed fingering as ~the thing~ to do when we were young and horny. Then as we got older, the classic sex move was traded for acts like oral, anal, and falling asleep alone with Netflix playing in the background. Regardless, it’s time we bring fingering back as one of the main events because let me tell you: It’s actually low-key amazing. Get Access to *All* of Cosmo “Fingering is using one or several fingers to stimulate the vagina or anus,” explains Michelle Murray, a professional counselor with Calmerry. So while you might have thought fingering just meant vaginal play, there’s more than one way to enjoy this move. Zoë Ligon, sex educator and founder of inclusive sex toy store Spectrum Boutique agrees: "Hands are the most versatile sex toy there is,” she says. "They're often overlooked and just seen as tools for foreplay, but manual sex is sex." That said, maybe it’s been a bit since you last used your fingers for something other than texting—or you might be totally new to the idea of using your hands for pleasure. If this is your first-time fingering (or first-time fingering in a while), we’ve got all the tips to get you started and get you or your partner off.

1. Get a mani.

This doesn’t mean every time you want to engage in a little finger action you have to head to your local salon. It just means that hand hygiene is vital to having a pleasurable—and safe—fingering experience. Your vagina's a sensitive ecosystem. You're careful about what you stick in and around it, and this should include hands—whether your own or your partner's. Ligon suggests regularly moisturizing your hands, filing your nails (short and blunt is best), and keeping your hands clean—plus cleaning them before and after any sexual activity. "If you're not sure that you've smoothed the edges of your nail enough, run them over your lips and see if you can detect any rough spots you missed," she suggests. Nothing can grind an otherwise enjoyable fingering session to a screeching halt like a stray hangnail scraping your vaginal wall. You tensed up just reading that, right?

2. Consider wearing gloves.

What do you do if you want to keep your nails long? You have a few options. Some women have one or two nails shorter than the rest for sexy situations. If that doesn’t fit into your ~aesthetic,~ erotic educator and Founder of Organic Loven Taylor Sparks suggests putting some cotton balls under your nails and throwing on some gloves to avoid painful pokes. In fact, sex educator Sarah Sloane advises wearing gloves if the fingerer uses nail polish or has rough hands. "While it may be a little clinical sounding, gloves even out the surface of your partner's fingers, which keeps fingernails and calluses from abrading your delicate bits." Plus, this is the perfect time to test out that ER doctor roleplay you’ve been fantasizing about.

3. Don’t compare yourself to the screen.

Chances are you’ve seen actors engage in fingering plenty of times, whether it was in a sexy show like Bridgerton or your favorite porn. It’s important to remember that while yes, those scenes are very hot, they’re also very unrealistic. In fact, the best fingering may look a little subtler than what you or your partner is used to seeing on a screen. “Take your time," sex educator Kelly Shibari recommends. "This isn't porn. This isn't acting. No pressure."

4. Practice solo.

If you’re a lucky owner of a vagina, you have a ready-made practice playground ready to be explored. “The more you know your own body and what brings it the most pleasure, the easier it will be for you to communicate that to other people,” explains polyamorous activist and co-founder of The Sex Work Survival Guide, Tiana GlittersaurusRex. It’ll also give you a better idea of what other people might like as well. One great way to get in tune with your own pleasure is to literally watch yourself get off. “Try to eye gaze and connect with yourself while masturbating in a mirror,” suggests GlittersaurusRex. It might feel a little strange at first, but eye contact is major for couples’ connection and chances are, you’ll learn a thing or two from your private show.

5. Concentrate on connection.

One of the best ways to be really good at fingering is to stop worrying about being really good at fingering. “Have fun and enjoy moments of silliness if they arise,” suggests GlittersaurusRex. “It’s okay to laugh and bask in all parts of the journey.” In fact, laughing together will help ease some of that tension, relax your muscles, and help get you talking, all things that’ll make your sex life—and relationship—even better.

6. Use both hands.

Sure, you’re already using one hand, but what’s going on with the other? “Caress more body parts,” suggests Sparks. “Reach up/over and stimulate the nipples, or if your partner is into BDSM (and with consent), that can be added too.” Things like pulling hair, caressing the breasts or booty, tickling the thighs, or stroking the clit will provide even more sensation and pleasure. Additionally, using two hands means you can incorporate both internal and external stimulation (if that’s your partner’s thing). "Use one hand to gently massage the mons pubis, the labia, and the clitoris, and at the same time, use the other hand to rub or gently insert a finger(s) into their vagina,” sex educator Scarlette Cyn says. “If you maintain steady pressure and speed, chances are they’re more than likely going to enjoy the session."

7. Ease into it. Literally.

Unfortunately, most people have experienced an over-enthusiastic lover once or twice in their lives. You know, one that jabs instead of seducing? In reality, the more aroused you are, the more you'll enjoy stimulation. As Sloane points out, during arousal, "the labia swell up and the internal parts of the clitoris get engorged, making pressure even more pleasurable—which is why grinding on your partner's body gets hotter as you get more turned on," she explains. "So make sure you start slow, and that you and your partner are worked up before going to penetration or more direct pressure."How you keep things slow and sensual: “If you’re fingering a vulva-owner, start gently on the inner thighs, working your way up to the pubic mound down towards the clitoris and to the vaginal opening,” suggests Sparks. “Taking your time allows your partner the time they need to relax and enjoy what is essentially a finger massage.” Personally, I like whisper-soft brushing on the clit to start. In fact, you could even touch your partner through their underwear at first. When and if you move onto penetration, start with one finger and add from there.

8. Incorporate your mouth.

If you’re with a partner, be open to utilizing more than just fingers on them. Consider incorporating your mouth for things other than a passionate makeout. “This is a great opportunity to add small wet kisses on the inner thighs and a flick of the tongue on and around the clitoris,” advises Sparks. “Starting with one finger, wet it completely with your mouth, and part the outer and inner labia to enter the vagina slowly.”You don’t even have to just use your mouth on your partner’s genitals if you’re trying to switch things up or don’t want to give oral sex. Murray suggests licking or sucking your partner's nipples while Sparks notes incorporating little nibbles or full-on body bites (with consent, obvi), is a great way to incorporate more body parts, sensations, and erogenous zones. BabeLube Silk Babeland babeland.com $10.00 9. Add some lube.Even if you think your natural lubrication is sufficient, try using a little lube the next time you incorporate fingering—you'll appreciate not only the extra wetness but also the smooth, silky texture. "Lube is perhaps the best way to make fingering feel better," sex therapist Vanessa Marin says. "Our natural vaginal lubrication doesn't tend to last a very long time, so a lot of women notice discomfort when they're being fingered." What's more, shopping for and trying out different lubes with your partner can turn into foreplay in and of itself. "This is a great opportunity to find a lube that you enjoy and it's a chance for you to be adventurous," Cyn says. Experiment with warming, cooling, tingling, and even flavored lubes and gels. “Just make sure your lube is free from sugar-based compounds, as this can cause a yeast infection," Cyn adds.

10. Try different types of stimulation.

When it comes to sex, no move is one-size-fits-all. What works for you might not work for someone else and vice versa. That said, Ligon notes most people want one of two things when getting fingerbanged: direct stimulation of the front wall of the vagina—the classic "come-hither" finger motion is a good way to achieve it—or "a sensation of fullness, which involves deeper strokes in a more linear movement." No matter what position the person is lying in, GlittersaurusRex suggests trying different stroke techniques. "Put your fingers in the 'come hither' position, then instead of just moving your fingers or moving in-and-out, tug your entire hand and wrist back and forth while keeping your fingers stiff and sturdy," Ligon says. Additionally, you can consider adding a little anal play to your manual sex, whether that means anal penetration with a finger or brushing around their anus. This content is imported from {embed-name}. You may be able to find the same content in another format, or you may be able to find more information, at their web site. 11. Guide your partner and ask for feedback.It doesn’t matter if you’re giving or receiving—being vocal is vital to having good sex of any sort. Especially if this is your first time, there’s a chance some nerves will be involved. “Some people may feel self-conscious about the smell, look, or taste of their vulva, so it important to be comfortable to enjoy the experience,” says Murray. This means creating a safe environment not only for play but for feedback as well. “Make sure everyone is comfortable and well supported mentally as well as physically,” advises GlittersaurusRex. “Enjoy communication of what feels good with periodic sexy check-ins.”If you’re not getting any response from your partner or you’re unsure if they like it, Sparks says you should always ask. In addition to listening to their body sounds and cues, you want to ensure you get verbal instructions as well, especially if you’re early in your relationship. Ask things like, “does this feel good” to open up the floor. When it comes to guiding your partner, don't feel like you need to tell them exactly what to do. Focus instead on giving feedback on what they're already doing by "giving directions like a ground controller on the airplane runway," Cyn says, using phrases like "left," "more pressure," "faster," "down," and "insert your fingers."12. Show in addition to telling."If you have a sensitive clitoris"—and even if you don't—"I recommend showing your partner the level of pressure that you enjoy," Marin says. "You can take your partner's hand and use one of your fingertips to touch the sensitive skin on the inside of their wrist ... You can say something like, 'I want you to touch me this gently.'" Sloane adds that "you can even hold their fingers and stroke yourself with them so that they can see exactly what pressure and patterns you love." Oh, and P.S.? Pretty much every expert recommends masturbating in front of your partner. Not only is it a turn-on, but they'll get to see exactly what gets you off, then do the same. Read the full article