#Diamond Earrings glasgow

[brewed-pangolin]

Consider lovely charming Soap trying to make an innocent reader swoon for him, all for the reader to unintentionally pull an uno reverse on him. Hes chatting their ear off, talking himself up. All of sudden the reader interrupts him and says that he has the prettiest eyes they've ever seen. Johnny starts to malfunction, he can't talk, his face is going red hot.

Usually he doesn't get so tripped up but it came from such a genuine place, he tongue tied. Instead of him being a cassanova like usual he's just staring at you with the biggest puppy dog eyes and pining for you.

Blue Eyed Casanova

Johnny 'Soap' MacTavish x Fem Reader

18+ MDNI Sexual Themes

Synopsis: Johnny Casanova pulls you in with his eyes, and you shake up his world with nothing but an unconscious whisper.

--

Look, you can't just throw Johnny's eyes out there and not expect me to go a little crazy. His baby blues fill my soul, okay.

I went back and forth on this for a while. Wanted to do a full fic but went for the drabble instead. Hope you like it.

Also including this with @glitterypirateduck SoapItUp Challenge. Used Prompt 29.

Happy Super Soap Sunday 🧼

You never thought you'd be so enthralled by a man while sitting at a coffee shop.

Hanging on every word, ears perking to the subtle nuances of his thick accent. Going all doey eyed as he reminisced about his younger years back home in Glasgow.

Eyes tracking his hands as accentuated his stories with gentle, undulating movements. Glancing every now and then at his luscious lips that just begged to be kissed.

You had to pull yourself back a few times. The urge to lunge over the table and lock him in an embrace, making your skin tingle and stomach churn with overwhelming eagerness.

But it was his eyes. Those gorgeous, cerulean orbs that sparkled like diamonds in the soft light of the morning sun. A blue that enchanted, pulled you into the maelstrom of his soul, and you were nothing but a wading vessel lost in his turbulent sea.

-

"You have such pretty eyes, Johnny," you whispered under your breath. Barely audible.

Johnny froze mid sentence. Hands raised, cupping the bulk of his account between his palms with his mouth agape and eyes twinkling in boyish bewilderment.

"W-what ya say?"

You smiled. Unashamed at being caught by your verbal plunder.

"I said, you've got the prettiest eyes I've ever seen."

Johnny closed the cavern of his gaping mouth with a dramatic gulp. Adam's apple undulating beneath the flesh of his neck as a rosey hue radiated over the circumference of his cheeks.

And those eyes glistened. Exploding waves of color like a supernova within the whites of deep space.

"Uh- me eyes? Ya- ya like me eyes?" He stuttered. That confident Casanova overtaken by childlike astonishment at the most beautiful words he'd ever heard.

"Yeah, Johnny. I do."

"Um, thanks. Got 'em from me mum. She's got th'most hypnotizin' stare I've ever seen. Y'know, the kind that..."

You couldn't help the curl to your mouth as he rambled on once more. The skiddish waiver on his tongue was all the confirmation you needed that your words had had the unconsciously planned impact.

You leaned over, just enough to cup his jaw in your hands to render him silent to your oncoming approachment.

"You talk too much," you purred, just before placing a tender kiss on his welcoming lips.

A subtle moan reverberated deep within his throat, making your eyes flutter closed as it vibrated against your mouth and echoed down the curve of your spine and into the hollow of your core.

The faintest gasp escaped your lips as you felt his tongue beg for entry into your mouth.

Granting him. Tasting him. Savoring the flavor of espresso and last night's whiskey on his breath as the calloused flesh of his palm cupped the supple curve of your jaw.

You wanted more. Needed more. Begged for the world to disappear and let his skilled hands work you over as his mouth greedily devoured your heart and soul.

The last remnant of your sanity made you pull away. A hushed whimper fell from your lips as your eyes cracked open to see the very flushed face of one breathless Johnny 'Soap' MacTavish.

"Steamin Jesus, lass. Was tha' your plan th'whole time? Makin me swoon all over ya, only fer you to get me all wrecked by them pretty words a'yers?"

"Maybe. Did it work?"

He nodded. Eyes swirling, bright blue darkening like an approaching storm.

"Aye. It did."

He leaned in to take your lips once more, yet you halted him. Pressing your fingers to his mouth while you pursed your lips with a knitted brow.

"Not here. Need somewhere more private."

"Why? Cannae I kiss ya out in public?"

A devious smile crept into your lips. Leaning in while simultaneously grabbing at your purse. Bringing your mouth to his ear to mutter the sweetest temptation and force a pleasured shrill down his spine.

"I don't want you to kiss me on my lips up here, Johnny. I want to see how pretty those eyes are gonna look between my thighs."

Drabbles Masterlist

@deadbranch @sofasoap @punishmepunisher @d3athtr4psworld @glitterypirateduck @shotmrmiller @ghosts-goldendoodle @astraluminaaa @writeforfandoms @obligatoryghoststare @homicidal-slvt @jynxmirage @queen-ilmaree @thetrashpossum @tacticalanxiety @simpingoverquestionablemen @mykneeshurt @kkaaaagt @haurasha @havoc973 @luismickydees @foxface013 @designateddeadend

[thepastisalreadywritten]

Royal blue

The Princess of Wales in an Alexander McQueen blazer and matching cigarette pants on a visit to HMP High Down, Surrey.

Winning white

The Princess of Wales put a sophisticated twist on England’s team colour as she cheered on players in their opening match at the Rugby World Cup.

Teal triumph

The Princess of Wales at her polished best in a custom teal Burberry suit and custom blouse by the designer for a reception with the Crown Prince and Crown Princess of Norway at Windsor Castle.

Lady in red

Catherine makes a statement in scarlet Alexander McQueen for a ‘Shaping Us’ pre-launch event at the BAFTA headquarters, January 2023.

Purple reign

The Princess of Wales is radiant in Roland Mouret for a reception at Windsor Castle, January 2023.

Sugar plum princess

Another outing for the Roland Mouret suit, this time during William and Catherine's royal tour of Boston, December 2022.

High flyer

A navy Alexander McQueen number is the perfect choice for the princess’s arrival in Boston, December 2022.

In the navy

The same suit was last seen on the Princess of Wales for one of her first engagements in her new position: a reception for some of the Royal Navy Ship’s Company of HMS Glasgow, November 2022.

Cream of the crop

Cheering on swimmers in Alexander McQueen at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, August 2022.

Monochrome mastery

Head-to-toe white Alexander McQueen was a chic choice for an outing to mark Windrush Day in London, June 2022.

Pink perfection

Another Alexander McQueen suit, this time in a soft shade of rose, for a meeting with early childhood experts in London, June 2022.

A royal tour triumph

An orange Ridley London blouse brought a splash of colour to her white Alexander McQueen suit for an engagement in Jamaica, March 2022.

Magenta magic

Catherine ensured she stood out from the crowd in this Emilia Wickstead ensemble for a visit to Ulster University, September 2021.

Queen of green

An emerald green Massimo Dutti ensemble blended into the park setting on a visit to Edinburgh, May 2021.

HRH High Street

The Princess of Wales donned a pink M&S suit for a visit to the London Ambulance Centre in Croydon, March 2020.

Green Dream

The Princess donned a faithful Burberry number for a visit to a textile factory in Leeds in September 2023.

Recycled Red

The Princess Of Wales on her way to an event for her 'Shaping Us' Campaign On Early Childhood in September 2023, in one of her favourite red Zara blazers.

Magenta Masterpiece

The Princess of Wales was a tailored masterpiece in Emilia Wickstead for the Shaping Us National Symposium at the Design Museum, even accessorising with Princess Diana’s sapphire and diamond drop earrings.

[weddingg]

Discover Exquisite Bridal Jewellery in Glasgow - Perfect for Your Big Day

Your wedding day is one of the most special and memorable moments in your life. Every detail, from the dress to the decor, contributes to making the occasion unforgettable. One of the most significant elements of a bride's attire is the bridal jewellery. The right pieces can add elegance, sparkle, and sophistication, completing your bridal look. If you're getting married in Glasgow, you're in luck – the city is home to a range of talented jewellers offering exquisite bridal jewellery options that will leave you breathless. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the best bridal jewellery Glasgow has to offer and help you find the perfect pieces for your big day.

The Importance of Bridal Jewellery

When it comes to your wedding ensemble, your jewellery isn’t just an accessory – it’s an expression of your style, personality, and love story. Bridal jewellery serves not only to enhance your bridal gown but also to reflect your unique tastes and celebrate the occasion. Whether you're seeking traditional elegance or a more modern and unique look, the right jewellery can complete your wedding day aesthetic.

From sparkling diamond necklaces and shimmering earrings to delicate bracelets and stunning tiaras, bridal jewellery adds an extra layer of glamour to your bridal look. It’s important to choose pieces that complement your dress, makeup, and hairstyle. A well-selected piece can draw attention to your face, enhance your gown’s design, and tie everything together seamlessly.

Bridal Jewellery Glasgow – A Hub for Beauty and Craftsmanship

Glasgow is one of the most vibrant cities in Scotland, known for its rich cultural heritage and thriving arts scene. This creative environment extends to the jewellery industry, where Glasgow-based jewellers have gained a reputation for creating stunning, high-quality bridal jewellery that makes every bride feel like royalty.

Whether you’re looking for custom-designed jewellery or timeless pieces from renowned designers, Glasgow offers a wide variety of bridal jewellery options. The city is home to a number of jewellery stores that specialize in wedding jewellery, with collections that range from classic to contemporary. In this section, we’ll dive into the types of bridal jewellery you can find in Glasgow and how to choose pieces that will make your wedding day unforgettable.

Classic and Timeless Bridal Jewellery

For many brides, a classic and timeless look is the way to go. If you love the idea of traditional elegance, Glasgow has an array of jewellery stores offering stunning diamond-studded necklaces, vintage-inspired earrings, and intricate bracelets that never go out of style. Whether you prefer white gold, platinum, or silver, these precious metals are often paired with diamonds, pearls, and other gemstones to create pieces that exude sophistication and grace.

Modern and Unique Designs

On the other hand, some brides may seek something a little more modern and unique. Glasgow’s jewellery designers are incredibly creative, offering innovative designs that push the boundaries of traditional bridal jewellery. From statement necklaces with bold gemstones to art-deco-inspired earrings, there are countless pieces for brides who want to make a statement.

Additionally, many jewellery stores in Glasgow offer bespoke services, allowing you to work with a jeweller to design your perfect bridal jewellery. This personal touch ensures that your jewellery will be one-of-a-kind, reflecting your individuality and style. Whether you're after a custom-made engagement ring or a necklace that perfectly complements your dress, there’s no shortage of opportunities to get exactly what you envision.

Sustainable and Ethical Bridal Jewellery

In today’s world, many brides are increasingly concerned about the ethical implications of their jewellery purchases. If sustainability and ethics are important to you, Glasgow offers a variety of jewellers who prioritize eco-friendly and ethically sourced materials. Many jewellery stores in the city specialize in creating pieces with ethically mined diamonds, recycled metals, and conflict-free gemstones.

Choosing sustainable bridal jewellery doesn’t mean you have to compromise on beauty or quality. In fact, many sustainable pieces are just as stunning as their traditional counterparts, and they come with the added satisfaction of knowing that your wedding jewellery was made with care for both people and the planet.

How to Choose the Right Bridal Jewellery in Glasgow ?

Choosing the right bridal jewellery is a personal and sometimes overwhelming decision. There are several factors to consider, and the options in Glasgow are endless. Here are some helpful tips to guide you in selecting the perfect pieces for your wedding day:

1. Match Your Jewellery to Your Dress

Your bridal gown plays a significant role in determining the jewellery you should wear. If you have a simple, minimalist dress, you may want to choose statement jewellery to add some drama and sparkle. On the other hand, if your dress is heavily embellished or features intricate detailing, it may be best to opt for more delicate, understated jewellery that won’t compete with your gown.

2. Consider Your Bridal Style

Your overall bridal style should influence your jewellery choices. If you're going for a classic look, diamonds, pearls, and simple gold or platinum settings will work beautifully. If you're after a boho-chic vibe, consider layering necklaces, stacking rings, and adding some unconventional gemstone colours. For a modern, edgy style, you can experiment with bold shapes, mixed metals, and alternative gemstones.

3. Think About Your Hairstyle

Your hairstyle can also affect the type of jewellery that will suit you best. If you’re wearing your hair up in an elegant updo, consider wearing drop earrings or a delicate tiara that will complement your hairstyle. For a loose, flowing hairstyle, you might want to opt for smaller, simpler earrings to avoid overwhelming your look.

4. Set a Budget

Bridal jewellery comes in a wide range of prices, from affordable pieces to high-end designer creations. Setting a budget is crucial to narrowing down your options and ensuring that you don’t overspend. Luckily, Glasgow offers bridal jewellery at various price points, so you’re sure to find beautiful pieces that fit your budget.

Conclusion – Make Your Wedding Day Shine with Bridal Jewellery Glasgow

Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and the jewellery you wear should be as special as the occasion itself. Whether you're drawn to classic elegance, modern flair, or eco-conscious designs, Glasgow offers an abundance of options for bridal jewellery that will make you feel beautiful, confident, and radiant on your big day.

By choosing pieces that reflect your personality and complement your wedding attire, you can create a look that is truly your own. So, take your time, explore the many jewellery stores in Glasgow, and find the perfect bridal jewellery that will make your wedding day shine.

If you’re ready to find the perfect bridal jewellery, let My Wedding Quote help! We connect you to top-rated bridal jewellery specialists in Glasgow and beyond. Visit us today and start planning the perfect jewellery to complete your bridal look!

[bejouled1]

How to Choose the Perfect Custom Jewelry Piece for Every Milestone

Jewelry is more than just an accessory—it's a symbol of cherished moments and milestones. Whether it's a celebration of love, a personal achievement, or a unique memory, custom jewelry offers the perfect way to commemorate life's special occasions. At Bejouled, located in the heart of Glasgow, Scotland, we specialize in creating one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your personal story. Here's a guide on how to choose the perfect custom jewelry for every milestone in your life.

1. Engagements: Symbolizing Forever Love

The engagement ring is one of the most significant pieces of jewelry you'll ever purchase. When selecting an engagement ring, it's important to choose something that embodies the uniqueness of your relationship. At Bejouled, we offer a variety of bespoke engagement rings that can be designed to suit any style—from classic solitaires to modern halo designs. Our expert jewelers will work with you to craft a ring that reflects your partner's personality and your shared love story.

2. Weddings: Bands to Last a Lifetime

Wedding bands symbolize the eternal bond between two people. Custom wedding bands allow you to create a set that is not only beautiful but also meaningful. Whether you're looking for a classic design or a modern twist, we offer a stunning range of women's wedding bands and men's wedding bands in Glasgow. Choose from different metals, finishes, and even engraving options to make your wedding rings as unique as your love.

3. Anniversaries: Celebrating Milestones in Style

An anniversary is a perfect opportunity to mark years of love and commitment. A custom piece can reflect the journey you've taken together. Whether it's a custom diamond necklace to celebrate a milestone or a remade piece that holds sentimental value, the possibilities are endless. At Bejouled, we can help you design a piece that commemorates your most cherished memories.

4. Personal Achievements: Jewelry to Honor Your Success

Life's personal achievements deserve to be celebrated, and what better way to do so than with a custom piece of jewelry? From graduations to career milestones, a bespoke piece allows you to express pride in your accomplishments. Whether it's a diamond bracelet or a personalized pendant, each custom piece tells the story of your journey.

5. Family Heirlooms: Crafting Memories for Generations

Jewelry often becomes a family heirloom, passed down through generations. At Bejouled, we specialize in jewelry remodelling, allowing you to take old, outdated pieces and transform them into something new and meaningful. Whether you want to redesign a vintage engagement ring or turn a family heirloom into a modern necklace, our team in Glasgow can help you preserve memories for future generations.

6. Just Because: Treat Yourself to Something Special

Sometimes, you don’t need a reason to indulge in a custom piece of jewelry. A bespoke creation is the perfect way to treat yourself or someone you love. Whether it’s a unique diamond earrings design or a custom bracelet, every piece crafted at Bejouled is a work of art that tells a personal story.

Why Choose Bejouled for Your Custom Jewelry Needs?

Located in Glasgow, Scotland, Bejouled is renowned for our expertise in crafting custom jewelry that is as unique as the people who wear it. Our team of skilled jewelers will guide you through the entire process—from initial design ideas to the final product. We work closely with our clients to ensure that each piece is created with precision, quality, and personal meaning.

Ready to create the perfect custom jewelry for your next milestone? Visit Bejouled in Glasgow, and let us help you bring your vision to life. Our collection of bespoke pieces, expert craftsmanship, and attention to detail make us the ideal choice for marking life's most meaningful moments.

Explore Our Custom Jewelry Services at Bejouled in Glasgow

Bespoke Jewelry Design

Men's Wedding Bands

Women's Wedding Bands

Jewelry Remodelling

Diamond Bracelets

Diamond Earrings

Let Bejouled in Glasgow create the custom piece that will be cherished for years to come. Your story deserves to be told through a piece of jewelry that’s as unique as you are.

Original Source /https://bejouled.blogspot.com/2024/12/how-to-choose-perfect-custom-jewelry.html

[theringmakeruk]

The Ringmaker Edinburgh

Visit our fabulous design studios in Edinburgh and Glasgow for a complimentary design consultation or to browse our beautiful in-house collection. We recommend making an appointment but we are more than happy to welcome impromptu visitors too! We are wheelchair accessible and pet friendly so furry friends are welcome! Simply call or email to book a consultation or for a chat with one of our designers – we look forward to your visit! We specialise in designing and hand-making engagement, wedding, eternity and dress rings as well as pendants, earrings, brooches, cufflinks and bangles using precious metals and the finest diamonds and coloured gemstones.

Website:

Address : 

46 Dundas Street, New Town, Edinburgh, EH3 6JN

Phone Number:

0131 558 8800

Business Hours:

Monday 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Tuesday Closed

Wed - Sat 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

Sunday Closed

[ajoytobeheld]

All our most brilliant friends

December 9th, 2009

So, lately I’ve found a fair few exciting free and legal mp3 downloads online, so for the less erudite of you, I thought I’d stick them up here for you to feast your eyes and ears over.

FIRST UP…

Parenthetical Girls have a history of making Xmas themed releases. Way back when they used to go by the name Swastika Girls they released their Christmas with… EP, then, as (((GRRRLS))) you have A Parenthetical Girls Family Christmas, two absolutely sterling releases, but this year, with “The Christmas Creep” they’ve totally outdone themselves. Featuring Flowers For Albion, a wartime piano and horns stomp, which is Zac’s most obvious outpouring of Anglophilia to date and their rendering of Sparks‘ Thank God It’s Not Christmas as a synth pop masterpiece, this is well worth your bandwidth. And it’s FREE.

SPARKY DEATHCAP // Glasgow Is A Punk Rock Town by TheArtOf… Our friend Rob releases music under the name Sparky Deathcap. His Tear Jerky EP (which he sold on tour with us across the UK, this past October) is available to buy from his store here, but as a taster you can download his song Glasgow Is A Punk Rock Town over here. To me it sounds like Scott Walker recording in his bedroom. Probably not to anyone else though. Some of you may know that recently Rob has been playing as the 8th member of Los Campesinos!, so you have allegiances to him even if you don’t realise it. And it’s FREE.

My favourite album released this year (by nearly a million miles) is Fleurs by Former Ghosts. More on that soon, but my pal Freddy updates his blog reasonably frequently, and often, with no fanfare at all, for he is disgustingly modest, he’ll upload new tracks. This is a cover of If You Need Someone by The Field Mice. An already really pretty song, that he’s made even prettier and added a whole heap more sadness to. And that’s why I love him. And it’s FREE.

One of my favourite songs of the year now has a video. Frankie & The Heartstrings are going to be massive next year (assuming there’s any justice) and this video is testament as to why. A slow burning song that explodes into a heart wrenching chorus. Warm, warm organ, perfect for this time of year. The video’s right here, but you can buy the 7″ single, by clicking here.

Slow Club are a really special band. I think I’ve made that clear in the past. They’re continuing their tradition of not releasing anything crap with their Christmas EP Christmas Thanks For Nothing. It’s tangibly released by Moshi Moshi on the 15th December, but it seems to have sneaked out digitally on iTunes. £3.49 for six class songs. You’d have to be a pretty soulless bastard to download that illegally, amirite? BUY. True to form; it’s brilliant. I would marry this band (though the divorce would be a nightmare).

FINALLY, amongst all the moronic “Get Joe McElderry’s Label Mates to Christmas No. 1″ facebook campaigns, and then all the “Oh no m8, that’s not indie/mental enough, let’s do it with with <insert even more shit idea here>”, there’s one diamond in the turd*, and that’s this:

A cover of Do They Know It’s Christmas? by Fucked Up and friends. Including Bob Mould, Kevin Drew, Andrew WK and David Cross amongst others and with 100% of all proceeds being split between Justice for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, DTES Power Of Women Group and Sisters In Spirit. After all this free stuff you’ve got your hands on, why not head to iTunes to spend a measly 99p on it. Nice one fellas.

* for the record, the Xmas charts, in my lifetime, have always been about novelty TV tie ins and just-a-bit-of-fun nonsense so I hope you realise that every time you slag the X-Factor it’s like you’re shitting on my Xmas Tofurkey, right infront of my Gran. It’s called X-Mas for a reason, y’know?

[world-of-wales]

CATHERINE'S STYLE FILES - 2013

4 APRIL 2013 || The Countess of Strathearn visted the Emirates Arena, Quarriers Stopover project and the Donald Dewar Leisure Centre in Drumchapel along with Prince William on the first day of their visit to Scotland.

[gotham-ruaidh]

Could you do some sort of ficlet for Modern Glasgow of Jamie and Claire interacting with her fellow med students and him claiming her in front of them or vice versa.

Modern Glasgow AU: Chronological order || Publication Order [AO3]

(set about 1.25 years after Jamie and Claire's wedding, early in her first semester of medical school)

--

A gust of wind pushed across the courtyard, and Jamie turned up the collar of his jacket.

"It's a bit nippy for September. Hope this doesnae bode ill for the winter."

"It's overcast," Claire remarked beside him, stepping carefully around the puddles left from last night's rain. "And we're in Scotland. The weather can take a turn at any moment."

Jamie huffed. "Reminds me that I need to fix the insulation around the window in our bedroom. Cannae have my wife freezing."

She readjusted her satchel (a gift from Jamie) on her shoulder, and squeezed his hand. "Well, as long as we continue to use our bed in the way we do, I wouldn't worry about that."

He flushed, and she smiled. He coughed.

"Remind me again when you'll be done wi' the study group?"

"Our lab session is until noon, and we'll probably grab lunch afterward at that cafe I told you about. You're welcome to join us."

They had arrived at the grand old university building where Claire now spent the majority of her waking hours. Students burdened by backpacks streamed in and out of the revolving door, earbuds blasting music, faces a mix of exhaustion and exhiliration.

Jamie turned to face Claire. "Text me when you're on your way. Rupert wants to go over the Christmas printing schedule wi' me...and ye ken that could take minutes or hours." With his free hand he brushed a stray curl behind her ear, smiling as he glimpsed the earrings she wore - the small diamond studs his father had given his mother, and which Jenny in turn had given to Claire last Christmas.

She smiled at him. "Show me," she said quietly.

He drew back his hand, so that she saw the C tattooed at the base of his thumb.

"And you," he whispered.

She reached up to caress his chin with her thumb, then pulled back - showing him the J tattooed there.

He swallowed. "I love you."

"I love you," she smiled, and he leaned down to kiss her long and sweet.

Finally she pulled away and smiled again. "I'll see you later."

He smiled back. "I cannae wait."

----------

It had been an intense session in the anatomy lab that morning, but Claire's partner Jeanne was (fortunately) just as focused and determined as she was. Despite only knowing each other for a few weeks, since the beginning of term - already they had settled into a good working rhythm. Jeanne too had previous medical experience - she had worked as a paramedic in Paris for a year or so, and after a particularly traumatic incident decided to shift gears and train as a doctor.

It was through Jeanne that Claire had met the rest of the study group. There was Millie, a fresh university graduate from Edinburgh who lived down the hall from Jeanne in the university's student housing. And Peggy, Millie's roommate from Belfast, who had taken a gap year working at a clinic Nigeria before university. And Doug, who always wore a sweater from his native Shetland Islands, and Bruno, who never said much but clearly knew his facts. Millie and Peggy had met Doug and Bruno at a first-year student event, and immediately offered to form a study group. Claire - and, she suspected, Jeanne - wasn't quite sure if it was just a ploy to hook them as boyfriends.

But she was happy to get to know several other students - especially those with very different backgrounds from her own - and have them as her "team". They were fun, they were focused, and they certainly made her feel at home.

It was now their post-lab or post-lecture routine to grab a quick coffee or lunch (depending on the time of day) at the quiet but vibrant cafe right off campus. Despite its proximity to the university, the cafe was frequented more by neighborhood regulars than students - and never minded the group of six sitting in the back booth for several hours on end, mulling over the day's lessons.

Claire had texted Jamie when they'd locked up their lab drawers and headed out for the cafe. He'd quickly replied - Still at the printshop, don't wait for me, i love you mnd - and she'd tucked away her phone for the short walk across campus, chatting with Jeanne and Doug, with Millie and Peggy and Bruno following close behind.

Halfway to the cafe, Jeanne's mother called - and she hung back a bit, Claire only able to pick up a few words here and there amid the rapid-fire French.

"I'm concerned with the pace of all these lectures," Doug said to Claire.

She shrugged. "I'm not. I don't have a frame of reference to know if it's too fast or slow."

"I've asked around and been told that our lecturer is new this year. Maybe he's trying to push us all a bit hard."

"I wouldn't know. Besides, I don't mind if it's a bit accelerated. I quit my job for this - I'm all in."

"That's right," Doug said, quickly glancing over his shoulder to see Bruno and Peggy and Millie laughing hysterically. "You were a nurse, if I remember correctly."

Claire nodded. "At an A&E here in Glasgow, mostly."

"You must have some fascinating stories."

"I do. But more than anything, having that experience taught me to trust my instincts."

They paused at a crosswalk, waiting for the signal to change.

Doug turned to look at her - his eyes strangely intense. "Is that right, Claire?"

She raised her eyebrows skeptically. "I don't know what you're insinuating. But I'm warning you, don't go any further."

The other four members of the group were still a few steps behind. Doug's eyes remained intense on Claire's.

"You know exactly what I mean, Claire. I can give you whatever you want. And things you could never dream of. Trust your instinct on this."

Claire gaped, fire burning in her heart. But just as she replied -

"Claire!" Millie and Peggy sprang up behind her. "Bruno just told us the most wonderful joke. Bruno, can you repeat it!"

Claire pasted on a smile. Her left hand formed a fist in her pocket, thumb tracing her wedding ring.

"Sure. Tell me?"

----------

Claire hadn't the appetite for food, but a hot Earl Grey did cheer her somewhat.

When they arrived at the cafe, she'd deliberately sat as far away from Doug as possible. Normally she sat on the inside of the booth, but today she sat on the edge, almost as if she wanted to make a break for the door.

She listened idly to Peggy and Millie chattering with Bruno and Doug, knowing that Jeanne picked up on her silence but wisely did not ask.

Just as she finished her tea, Jamie strode through the door, glancing around the cafe.

How her heart soared when he saw her and smiled.

Not caring about the conversation in the booth, immediately she stood. And then he was there, squeezing her hands. And then she pulled him down for a deep kiss.

He pulled away, quirking an eyebrow - he'd ask her later.

She turned to the group. Narrowed her eyes at Doug - who showed no emotion.

"Everyone - this is Jamie. My husband."

Jamie nodded. "Good to see you again, Jeanne. Hi everybody."

"This is Millie and Peggy."

"Hiii," they gaped.

"And Bruno."

Bruno stood to shake Jamie's hand. "A pleasure," he smiled.

"And Doug."

Doug nodded a cool hello.

"Quite the Fair Isle knit you've got there," Jamie remarked in his thickest brogue. "I'd think that you Shetlanders would consider this weather to be quite balmy."

"Perhaps my blood has thinned a bit from living with all you Southerns," Doug retorted coolly.

Claire squeezed Jamie's hand, and dug her thumbnail in the flesh at the base of his thumb. Their silent signal indicating: I need you desperately.

Jamie dragged a chair to sit at the end of the booth, still gripping Claire's hand. "How was the lab?" His thumb swiped the underside of her wrist - another silent signal indicating, I understand.

For about fifteen minutes Jamie remained, chatting with his wife and her classmates, learning more about them and their aspirations. He never let go of Claire's hand beneath the table - their fingers twining and re-twining in a silent promise of what was to come.

Finally when Bruno stood up to leave, and the group broke up - Jeanne gave Claire a quick hug goodbye, and Claire didn't even acknowledge Doug as he turned back to the university.

Two minutes later she and Jamie were in their car.

"I'm going to drive us home, and you're going to tell me what's going on, Claire."

"I will, but you must promise to not do anything."

He turned on the car and looked at her. "I'm not going to hurt anyone, if that's what you're insinuating. But if you want me to defend your honor - "

"Doug propositioned me," she said baldly.

He pursed his lips. "I see. Show me, Claire."

She reached out her hand, palm up, the letter J bold and dark against the pale skin of her hand.

He kissed it.

"I'm going to ask Jeanne to remove him from the study group."

Her thumb traced the seam of his lips.

"He said he could give me whatever I wanted. And things I could never dream of."

He parted his lips, and took in her thumb.

"He can never understand that it's only you who does that for me. Who could do that for me."

He sucked gently, eyes burning.

"My heart hurts with love for you, Jamie."

He bit gently on her knuckle. Offered his thumb - with her C tattooed at the base - for her to kiss. She did, and bit softly.

He released her thumb with a soft, wet pop. "It is the greatest honor of my life, Claire, to be that person for you. For you know it's the same for me, aye?"

She nodded.

He smiled. "I love you. Let's go home."

Her hand squeezed his thigh the whole way.

[apinchofm]

Could you write something about Miriam and Baldwin getting married with the whole family in attendance. Especially those who didn’t know Baldwin and Miriam were dating?

Lovely prompt! Thanks for this and I hope you like it!

Not much surprised Gallowglass. When you've lived as long as he had, there wasn't much to surprise you.

When he arrived to his flat in Glasgow, he saw in his pile of post, a letter with Baldwin's insignia on the wax seal. He prayed it wasn't a war.

"Wedding invitation?!"

━━━━━━━━━

Marcus cackled loudly when the invitation arrived at his and Phoebe's home. He'd been waiting for this. Ever since he and Miyako caught the two older vampires in a compromising position over a hundred years ago.

"What's so funny?" Phoebe asked.

"Baldwin and Miriam are getting married."

"Oh, great." Phoebe adored her new mother and she really liked Baldwin, being one of the few people he liked.

"Matthew is going to lose his shit."

━━━━━━━━━

Sept-Tours was decked out for the wedding of the century, if not the millennia. Creatures from all over the world, even Gerbert and Domenico were in attendance.

Ysbaeau had organised the whole thing, as Baldwin and Miriam delegated it to her. The matriarch had never believed Baldwin would mate, but when Baldwin and Miriam announced their news, she had gone out of her way to ensure it was as perfect and extravagant as Philippe would've wanted.

Gallowglass arrived with Diana and Fernando. Jack was walking the twins around the grounds so that they could let out all that pent up energy and be settled during the ceremony.

"Everything looks beautiful," Diana praised once she saw Ysabeau, who was still fussing over a vase of flowers.

"Thank you, my dear."

"Grandpa definitely would've done all this. Baldwin getting married." Gallowglass mused, "And to Miriam."

"It's strange, but if they're happy..." Diana shrugged. A kind waiter came by with champagne which the three took gratefully.

"Stasia!" Fernando smiled spotting the woman, dressed for the occasion. They kissed each other on the cheek, and she hugged Gallowglass and nodded politely to Diana.

"Did you know?" Diana asked.

"Yes. Baldwin didn't stay in Spain for the inquisition just because he hates the church." Stasia smirked. She was the closest to Baldwin of all his sisters. She knew his heart and knew that Miriam had always had it.

"I caught them in Morocco." Fernando shrugged and Gallowglass looked at his father, surprised, "It was none of our business and Hugh forbade me from telling anyone. He wanted his brother to have a private life."

━━━━━━━━━

Miriam stood in her suite at Sept-Tours, looking at herself in a long mirror. She was in her wedding dress. A simple, cream satin dress with a cowl neck and a lace train. No veil, she was far too old to be modest.

"You look absolutely beautiful," Marthe gushed as she finished with the buttons on the back.

"Merci, tante" Miriam smiled.

"Are you sure you want your hair down?" Marthe asked yet again. She did have many braided hairstyles in mind that she could do to her long, dark hair.

"Simple, Marthe." Miriam smiled.

A knock came at the door and they both knew it was Matthew. Marthe left to give them some space. Matthew hadn't spoken to the bride or groom since receiving the invitation.

She put on her earrings and mentioned for him to help her with her necklace, a simple gold chain with a diamond at the end.

"Something old." He murmured, as he closed the clasp on the necklace, "I bought you this."

"I know."

"Why didn't you tell me about the two of you?" Their eyes met in the mirror and he looked hurt. Hurt that his friend hadn't shared her happiness with him for centuries.

"How would you have reacted?" Miriam asked instead, "You would've either assumed in that archaic mind of yours that Baldwin was taking advantage of me or you would've never spoken to me again because of your feud."

Matthew smiled ruefully. It was true. It was only in recent years he and Baldwin had really begun getting along. He trusted Baldwin as head of the family, as his brother. But with a woman's heart?

"I'm happy that you are happy," Matthew promised, and she turned around and hugged him.

━━━━━━━━━

"Even if it is Baldwin." He feigned disgust.

"Try not to throw up when we kiss."

Phoebe and Jason popped their heads in. Both were dressed. Phoebe was in a red slip dress, in a similar style to Miriam's dress and he was in a tux with a red tie and handkerchief.

"Hello. Marcus is looking for you." Phoebe said, kissing her father in law on the cheek. He nodded thankfully before leaving.

"You look beautiful, mother," Jason said sincerely and Phoebe nodded as well.

"Thank you. Are you okay with this?" Miriam said. She had asked him that when she accepted the proposal, was planning the wedding. Jason had known that she and Baldwin were involved and rarely gave his opinion.

"He makes you happy. Father would've wanted you to be happy." Jason emphasised, "And you could do a lot worse." She slapped him playfully, but smiled.

"Thank you, my boy."

"I know I'm new to the family, but I'm happy too." Phoebe piped in, "As long as I don't have to call him father. I am married to his nephew."

Miriam pulled them both in for a hug, laughing.

━━━━━━━━━

Baldwin was in his office, making sure everything was ready in his Venitian home for their honeymoon.

"Papa, no work on the wedding day!" Miyako had found him. Like Phoebe, she was in a red dress, but it was shorter.

"Not working, see?" He shut his laptop and stood. She helped straighten up his bowtie.

"Nervous?" She asked.

"Never," Baldwin replied with a smirk.

"I like Miriam, she's the only person who's never been afraid to call you a dick." Miyako said, "And I can forgive the two of you for what Marcus and I witnessed in 1846."

"So that's why you never sit on that chaise?" He teased.

"I'm glad you're finally doing something for yourself," Miyako said. He kissed her on the forehead with a small smile.

Marcus and Matthew arrived, "I knew he would be in his office!" The younger vampire said.

Matthew and Baldwin made eye contact and their children looked nervously in between them.

"I'm happy for you," Matthew said finally.

"How long did it take you to come up with that?" Baldwin asked dryly. His brother smirked.

"Miriam's too good for you."

"I know."

Marcus clapped his hands, "Well, after that heartwarming moment, let's get you married, uncle."

[hurt-care]

The Reunion - WW2 era fic

I've been listening to an audiobook about WWII in the UK and there's been multiple mentions of people writing in their diaries about suffering from lengthy colds as well as a discussion of the increase in casual sex during the war (especially during air raids, when it became a welcome distraction). So, let's just say I was inspired...! 

Male, cold, OCs, contains 18+ content

The Reunion -

The club was positively bursting with young revellers and the sounds of a jazz band playing as couples moved across the dance floor in tight embraces, flitting in and out of shadow of the chandeliers sparkling overhead. Champagne flowed liberally, delivered by waiters in smart tuxedo jackets and white gloves. If a time-traveller had been magically transported inside, they would have no idea that outside the walls of the club there was a war on.

Making her way through the throngs of people was Katherine Marsh, or Kat to her close friends. Close at her heels was Mary Alderman, an old school chum who'd come up through London society with her. The girls wove through the dancers on route to a table up on the balcony that circled the dance floor, providing a spectacular view of the room below. Only the uppers of society generally occupied the tables here and the demand was such that often bribes had to be given to the head waiter to ensure a spot. Peter Halford, one of Kat's other longtime friends, had been in charge of the evening's transaction and now he waved cheerily from a spot in the corner as the girls approached.

“Hello, Peter!” Kat said joyfully as she sided into a chair along the wall, tucking the skirt of her silk gown around her. “Have you ordered a bottle yet or shall I do the honours?”

“It's just coming now,” Peter replied, nodding towards the approaching waiter who carried a magnum size bottle in a silver ice bucket while another waiter followed behind deftly balancing a tray of champagne coupes.

“Your timing is impeccable as ever,” Mary said with a laugh. “I'm parched.”

She flashed a smile at Peter, her eyes sparkling in the light of the crystal scones along the walls. Kat smirked knowingly at her friend. Mary had been pursuing Peter over the course of several of these evenings out on the town, but Peter remained seemingly oblivious to her advances.

Tonight, Mary was draped in layers of royal blue silk with a spectacular diamond bracelet glinting on her wrist. She looked radiant and Kat thought Peter had to be completely daft to not notice. Kat, on the other hand, had no particular beau in mind. She'd danced with dozens of men and dined at parties across the countryside around London, but no one gentleman had captured her heart. Besides, she was barely twenty and so many of the young men her age were away at service. For now, she was content with dancing and snogging sessions in dim alleyway with soldiers on leave and officers posted to city stations.

The waiter poured them all glasses of champagne and the trio toasted to health, happiness, and the victory of Britain. The chat was light and merry, with Peter filling them in on his new job at the Royal Airforce's London offices near Whitehall. At the hour neared eleven, someone took to the microphone to introduce the next band complete with a line of cabaret dancers dressed in feathers and sequins for entertainment. Mary squealed in delight as the drums kicked up the beat of a popular dance tune and she reached for Peter's hand.

“Oh, will you dance?” she asked breathlessly. “I love this song.”

Peter downed the last of his champagne glass as he stood up.

“Of course. Kat, find yourself a man and let's go.”

The two disappeared into a sea of people moving towards stairs that led to the dance floor. Kat drained her own coupe and stood, surveying the crowded tables for familiar faces or handsome strangers.

A few girls were lingering at a table of Naval officers and as the men stood and paired off with them, one man remained seated alone with a cigarette in his hand. As the duos passed by, Kat realized with a heart-dropping thud that she recognized the lone officer that had stayed behind.

Oliver Hartnett had danced with her at her first debutant ball when she was seventeen and she'd been completely enraptured by him. Two pages of her diary were dedicated to extolling his virtues, from the gentle tambour of his voice to his green eyes, from to his broad shoulders to his chestnut hair. As quickly as he'd come into her life, he'd left it again. They'd shared two dances that night and some brief conversation at a dinner party a week later, and then she hadn't seen him since. Word in the upper circles said he'd gone to Scotland to work for an aging uncle's business and he disappeared from London's upper crust.

Kat dumped the dregs of the champagne bottle into her coupe and gulped it down, feeling the rush of bubbles to her head as she bolstered her courage. She reached into her small handbag for her compact, inspecting her face and reapplying a coat of her precious lipstick, as the bright red shade was now nearly impossible to find with the war rations and so she reserved it for nights out alone.

With a smile on her face that she hoped concealed her nerves, she glided as confidently as she could over to the table.

“Ollie Hartnett, is that you?” she said over the din of the music and the crowd. The man at the table seemed startled by the interruption and he looked up at her, his face vacant for a moment. Then, a grin spread across his face.

“Oh my goodness, Miss Marsh,” he said, standing suddenly and extending his hand.

She laughed.

“It's Kat, please,” she said, taking his broad hand in her and shaking it. “Do you mind if I sit?”

“Of course, please do,” he said, fumbling to get around the vacant chairs nearby in order to pull out one for her. She folded herself gracefully into the seat, crossing her ankles as her mother had always instructed. For once, she was glad she'd listened to Mary's constant chatter about fashion and had worn the deep emerald green silk gown with the black trim that she'd purchased for the previous winter's New Year Eve celebration at Mary's family estate. It set off her figure nicely and contrasted with her auburn hair and milk-white complexion.

Oliver was shaking her head, still grinning.

“What a surprise,” he said, his gentle voice barely audible over the music. “You look well.”

She smiled back.

“I am! Well, as well as anyone is in London at war, I suppose. You've joined up, I see. On leave?”

“For a few more weeks,” he replied, taking a slow drag of his almost burnt-out cigarette. “I'm posted at Brighton, usually.”

“And you're not on the arms of a dozen girls dancing your night away?” she teased.

He snubbed out the cigarette in the ash tray and shook his head.

“Honestly, I wasn't keen on going out at all but the other gents insisted.”

“If I recall, you were quite popular on the dance floor,” she continued. “What's changed?”

“Just a bit under the weather, that's all,” he replied. “Haven't felt up to much dancing tonight, but I'll spare one for you, for old time's sake.”

She felt herself blush.

“Not yet,” she said. “I have to hear all about where you disappeared to that summer. You left a lot of us wondering why one of our dashing debs up and left London at the height of the season.”

“It's not a particularly exciting story, but if I'm going to tell it we ought to do it over a drink.”

He beckoned to a waiter who returned shortly with two cocktails on a black lacquered tray and a serving of peach melba for each of them.

Oliver detailed how the rumours were true; he'd left London for the banal task of running the business operations for his uncle's small factory in Glasgow. A year ago, as the ferocity of the war had begun to increase, he'd enlisted in Royal Navy and left the factory in the hands of the old foreman and his cousin, a savvy young woman named Rose.

More than once during the story he'd paused momentarily to clear his throat with a cough or take a sip of his cocktail to revive his waining voice. Kat felt a pang of sympathy now that she was close and could see clearly the weariness in his face. Though it was spring, the weather had been dreadful and frigid for weeks and many people she knew had been battling heavy colds.

She told him about her adventures in London with Mary and Peter, and about her volunteering posting with the Women's Auxiliary Service where she worked to find temporary housing for those displaced by air raids.

When they'd finished their peach melbas and cocktails, the band struck up a lively tune and Oliver appeared to summon some energy with a broad smile aimed at Kat.

“This is the one,” he said, extending a hand. “Would you like to dance?”

She nodded, trying not to let her rush of enthusiasm show too greatly.

He led her down to the dance floor and took her into his arms, leading the gentle sway as they danced among the other couples. His broad hand rested on the small of her back and Kat felt a rush of heat to her body as they touched, cheeks almost against one another. The gentle warmth of his breath tickled her neck and she was sure he was about to lean in to kiss her there.

His voice mumbled something deep and low into her ear but she couldn't discern it over the music.

“Mmm?” she replied.

“Oh Christ, sorry,” she heard him say and suddenly he was moving swiftly away from her, his one hand leaving her back and his other dropping its grip from hers.

Eh-TSGHT! He turned his face into the sleeve of his officer's uniform, sneezing inaudibly to her as the rest of the dance floor continued their rhythmic sway.

“So sorry,” he shouted, leaning back so she could hear him. He reached into his pants pocket for a handkerchief, which he dabbled briefly under his nose.

“Sorry,” he repeated as he took up his embrace once more.

“It's okay,” she said into his ear. “I hope you don't feel too poorly.”

“No,” he said into hers, his lips almost brushing against her. “Better now.”

She leaned herself closer against him and he pressed his lips to her neck. She sighed with delight, feeling all the rush of emotions that she'd had when they'd first danced. His body was more muscular and square now, without the lanky lines he'd had as an eighteen year old.

Tilting her head upwards, she met his lips and they kissed briefly.

He leaned over to speak into her ear again.

“I hope I'm not catching.”

“I don't care,” she said and captured his lips again. The kiss deepened and a couple nearby sided away to give them a moment of privacy.

The song ended and Katherine stayed in the embrace of Oliver's arms as the next began.

He looked down at her with a soft, tired expression.

“I'm dreadfully sorry, but I'm afraid all this noise and such is too much for me tonight.”

“Can you stay up a little longer?” she asked. “There's a nice restaurant not too far from here. We could go and have a drink there and talk. It's much quieter.”

It was past midnight now and while Oliver looked like he might consider declining in favour of being tucked up in bed, he nodded and smiled.

She grinned back at him and kissed his cheek.

“I'm so glad. I'll find my friends to tell them I'm off. Meet me by the doors? Would you be a dear and get my coat for me?”

She fished the small coatcheck tag from her handbag.

After she'd shouted her goodbyes to Mary and Peter (who looked very cozy together on the dance floor, she noted with pleasure), she found Oliver leaning against a wall by the exit with her coat over his arm and his own Navy-issued wool peacoat already on. He held up her coat to help her into it and offered his arm to her, walking at her side out into the cool spring night.

The air was clear and crisp, with a half-moon overhead. The streets were brutally dark thanks to the blackout and they made their way clumsily along the road, squinting to see landmarks in the dim moonlight.

“It's down to the left, one more block,” she said as they passed the entrance to another dance club where the only light came from several cigarettes that glowed as young people poured in and out from the doors and slipped behind blackout curtains into the well-lit hall.

“Can we pause a moment,” Oliver asked. “Sorry, just a moment.”

She stopped, turning to look at him.

“Sorry,” he repeated, reaching for his handkerchief. She could see him silhouetted in the dim moonlight as his shoulders trembled and he shook his head for a moment. Then, with a deep breath, he pitched forward with a wrenching sneeze.

Hurhhh-TSGHXTT!

Unable to mask the sound, he gave a brief but noisy blow into the handkerchief afterwards before hastily tucking it into his coat pocket.

“I'm so sorry,” he said, taking her arm up again. She gave him a light squeeze, leaning against his side as she did so.

“Don't apologize,” she said. “I'm only sorry to hear you so poorly. Blasted cold seems to be going around everywhere.”

“The boys in my unit said that if I can't spend a night out with a head cold, there's no way I'd last through a month at sea battling the Germans,” said Oliver, his voice a little hoarse. He cleared his throat with a cough. “I suppose that's true.”

“Well, we'll find you something warm to drink at the restaurant and that should revive you,” Kat said cheerfully.

They were just rounding the last corner onto the street where the restaurant was located when a sound split the air. The wail of the air raid sirens began their raised pitch, increasing to a loud din of pulsing noise.

They paused in the street, stunned. It shouldn't have been entirely a surprise; the sirens were a regular occurrence in the city but neither one of them had encountered the alert while out on the street.

In the darkness, a voice shouted authoritatively.

“To your shelters, please! Nearest public shelter is the Piccadilly Circus station. To your shelters please!”

The figure of an air raid warden with a metal helmet on passed by.

“Which way is Piccadilly?” Oliver asked.

Kat glanced up and down the dark street.

“My rooms are only two or so more blocks past here,” she said. “If we hurry, we should be fine. There's a cellar in the back.”

Gripping his arm tightly, she led the way down the road. Several times they nearly collided with others making their way to safety. As they neared the house where she rented lodgings, the sky began to shine with searchlights and in the distance, the sound of anti-aircraft guns began to crackle. The bliss of dancing and the haze of champagne cleared from Kat's head as she steered them down an alley between some homes and to a metal hatch that covered the entrance to the cellar. She tugged it open and hovered a foot over the void, finding the top step.

“Six steps down. Pull the door shut behind you,” she said to Oliver. Her hand trailed along the earthen edge of the wall until it met the edge of a candlestick and a pack of matches. She struck one alight as Oliver shut the hatch with a loud bang.

The tiny chamber glowed in the candlelight, illuminating the stone and soil room. Oliver was breathing heavily, almost wheezing. Katherine tipped the lit candle to light others, gradually brightening the room enough to see without too much strain.

“Sit,” she insisted, gesturing to a small crate topped with a cushion. “Catch your breath. I'll put some tea on.”

Hhh-TSGHHH!

The sound of the sneeze startled her and she looked over in time to see Oliver building up to a second. He tipped forward, nose nestling into the folds of his waiting handkerchief.

Ehhh—hhehhTSXHHT! “Bless you!” she said earnestly. “Are you warm enough? There's plenty of blankets. My landlady, Mrs. Beecher, is up north visiting her sister and the other girl who rents rooms is at her family home for the week. So it's just you and me here unless we get some surprise guests from next door.”

“No, I'm fine,” he said quietly, wiping his nose. “Sorry.”

“I don't mind a bit of sniffling,” she said teasingly. “You don't need to keep apologizing.”

“Have you had to spend many nights down here?” he asked, surveying the cellar. It was appointed with provisions for the three woman who lived above plus extras for any visitors who might end up sheltering there. Two wooden bunks were stacked against one wall, each with pillows and blankets and thin mattresses. Another mattress was rolled and stored in a nearby trunk with additional linens. A small table held a kettle on a fuel-powered heater and several teacups. There was a deck of cards, a basket of knitting, and a lidded chamberpot. Someone had cheekily hung a framed piece of embroidery that read “Home Sweet Home.”

“Oh, I've lost count,” Kat said as she set the kettle to boil once she'd filled it with water from one of the three large canteens by the steps that led outside. “This is only the second time I've ended up down here in an evening gown, though.”

Once the kettle was heating, she opened a chest and took out a wool jumper and a pair of socks.

“Good thing I'm prepared,” she added.

Oliver watched as she sat on a wooden chair and unstrapped her high heel shoes and slid her hand up under her gown to unclip her precious nylon stockings. Careful not to snag them, she rolled them down her legs and pulled on the socks.

He laughed as she put the jumper on over her evening gown, put her coat back on top of that, and donned a pair of Wellington rubber boots. She struck a pose for him.

“You'd be the toast of all the fashion magazines,” he declared.

His chuckle turned to a cough that sounded strained and painful. She frowned at him and shook her head.

“I'd say you should've followed your own ideas and stayed home instead of the advice of your mates,” she said. “But I have to admit I've awfully glad I ran into you.”

He recovered from the coughing spell and looked at her with affection.

“I'm glad too,” he said. She poured the hot water from the kettle into a teapot to steep and selected two teacups.

Outside, the din of the air raid sirens had ended. There was the sound of distant explosions, but for the time being they were far from the action.

“I'm afraid I've no milk to offer but we have a bit of honey.”

“That'd be lovely, thanks,” he said.

She poured them each a cup and sat opposite him, savouring the warm tea. He drank his own cup, clearly soothed by the hot liquid. He dabbed at his nose a few times with his handkerchief as it began to run from the warmth.

When the cups were empty, they sat in silence for a moment. A bomb exploded somewhere a few blocks away and the candles flickered as the shockwave trembled through the earth. The remaining teacups on the table rattled against each other. Kat closed her eyes for a moment, sighing.

“Are you frightened?” Oliver asked.

“No, I don't think so,” she said. “I suppose I always am, a little. But not terribly.”

She set her teacup down on the table and moved to sit on the bottom bunk bed, patting the mattress beside her. He stood and moved to her side. The next thing she knew, they were kissing, his hands were in her hair and she had a hand on his chest. She kicked off the boots and pulled up her dress so she could sit astride his lap. He kissed down her neck and tugged her coat off, his hand going under her jumper and stroking her breasts through the silk of her gown.

She exhaled with pleasure, starting to slowly grind against his hips. She reached for the waistband of his trousers and he helped her with his belt. He made a soft moaning noise as she fumbled with the buttons at his fly and found her way downwards. His lips brushed her shoulder, pressing kisses where the neck of her jumper was stretched to the side. A brief cough escaped him, puffing against her skin. He muttered an apology and she murmured a sweet assurance as she began to stroke him.

“Wait,” he said breathlessly. He pulled her arms upwards and guided the jumper off over her head. She pushed his coat off him and made quick work of the buttons of his shirt, tugging that off too. He urgently shed his shoes and trousers as she stood and slipped off the silk gown revealing a satin bra and knickers with mother-of-pearl buttons.

He watched her hungrily as she slid out of the knickers and climbed back onto the mattress, guiding his pants off his hips. They kissed tenderly and she settled down on top of him, hips rising to meet hips. He made that same low moaning noise and she felt her body jolt with pleasure, hands roaming through his chestnut curls.

He made love to her urgently as the sound of bombs echoed outside. They moved together, breath increasing to gasps. His nose was running freely and he briefly sniffled and pressed it against his own shoulder to rub it. She kissed his neck and felt the expanse of his chest press against hers as he took a sharp breath. His body shuddered under her as he sneezed a restrained outburst, clearly trying to keep the explosion minimal.

Ngh-GHXT!

She moaned involuntarily as the spasm thrust him against her.

“Fuck,” he groaned under his breath. “Sorry.”

“Please,” she gasped. “Oliver!”

He sniffled thickly and then resumed with vigour until they both lay panting and shivering on the bed. He looked utterly exhausted but there was a smile on his lips. She leaned over and kissed his cheek.

“You sweet thing,” she whispered. “As if you weren't exhausted at the start of the evening.”

She slipped out of the bed with a blanket around her shoulders and found his shirt and socks and underthings on the ground.

“Best put at least your socks on before you drop off entirely,” she said tenderly, helping him dress before they both slipped under the quilts again.

She woke at some ungodly hour to the sound of nose-blowing and the roar of the 'all clear' siren. From feel, she could tell Ollie was sitting up in bed, straining to clear his nose with his sodden handkerchief. It was pitch black in the shelter and she had no idea how long they'd been asleep.

She managed to find the matches and lit a candle. Oliver sounded dreadfully congested and by the dim light of the single candle, she could see his nose was red and angry-looking at the edges.

“Oh, love,” she said, leaving the candle on the bedside table and climbing back under the quilts next to him. “How do you feel?”

He exhaled noisily.

“Rather poorly, I'm afraid,” he said hoarsely. “I hope for your sake it's not catching.”

She squinted at the wristwatch she kept wrapped on the bedpost. It was half-past four.

“It's still early but there's the all-clear. Do you want to get rugged up in my bed upstairs or stay here.”

He folded the handkerchief and tucked it at his side, snuggling back down beside her.

“That answers that,” she said, tucking his head against her breast. She stroked his hair and planted a kiss there. “Try to get some more rest, darling. I'll take good care of you.”

[fashionofemmawatson]

Emma wore a pair of Stella McCartney Katlyn trousers while in Glasgow for COP26 (credit).

Stella McCartney Katlyn trousers - $706.00

Worn with: Stella McCartney Adley Cropped Woven Blazer & Cartier Love 18k Rose Gold Cuff Bracelet & Fernando Jorge Sequence 18k Diamond Small Circle Earrings & Frank & Georgia Queen Bee Threader Earrings

[artificialqueens]

Cause Somewhere in the Crowd (There's You) (Diamond Chaney) - Plegdoctor

A/N: Not much to say for this one really, just a short Diamond Chaney girlband au based off Super Trouper by ABBA. Enjoy!

--

The other girls were more excited than she was, unpacking the van and chatting animatedly while all Lawrence could do was stare around. The building in front of her was imposing in more ways than one – physically huge, towering over her and casting a shadow on the otherwise sunny day, but also mentally imposing. Lawrence can still remember walking into it when she was a small girl in primary school, brown hair in neat plaits and eyes as wide as saucers as she hung onto her best friend’s hand and gaped.

Now she’s standing in front of it, brown hair dyed a vibrant purple and thrown into a ponytail at the top of her head, her eyes wide as saucers, and her hand empty.

It had all gone a bit too far really, starting with Bimini slamming their fists on the table in year 12 and excitedly suggesting they start a girlband (“Well, three girls and me innit”) and Lawrence can’t trace her finger along what happened next to lead her to standing in Glasgow, a sinking feeling in her stomach as she realises what she’s doing there.

“You alright babe?” Lawrence turns to look down on Bimini, standing next to her with a concerned frown on their face. “Excited to be back in your hometown?”

Lawrence forces a laugh, a fake smile slipping onto her face in an action that more natural than she would care to admit. “Loving it Bim.”

Bimini grins. “Good. Just think, it’ll be like facing 20,000 of your friends.”

Lawrence’s snort is genuine at Bimini’s words, her eyes rolling fondly at the never-ending optimism of her tiny friend. “I don’t think there’s quite that many seats, babes.”

Self-proclaimed monarch of the PMA, Bimini simply shrugs and pivots to run towards Tayce who is three seconds away from dropping the crate full of water on her foot. Lawrence watches the scenes with a hint of amusement, the weighted feeling in her stomach settling. Her mind goes back to Bimini’s words, the thought of facing 20,000 of your friends. There’s only one friend that Lawrence wants to face when she’s on stage tonight – and that friend is currently on the other side of Scotland in her hairdressing salon.

The thought weighs on her mind until it’s pressing against her cranium and cracking her skull by the time she’s thrown herself across the hotel bed and sighed for approximately the 50 millionth time.

Lawrence loves what she does. She does. She loves her friends, Bimini, Tayce, and A’whora. She loves the process of writing new songs, long hours locked in the studio throwing harmonies and lyrics around until it just sounds like pure gibberish. She (secretly) loves learning the choreography that Tayce insists they must do, repeating the wee steps until her body finally moves in the right way and Tayce enthusiastically high fives her. She loves getting into costume and makeup, the process transforming her from Lawrence Chaney who got picked on in school into international popstar Lawrence Chaney who regularly performs on the biggest stages all around the world with her girlband.

They’ve worked hard for what they have too. Lawrence likes to tell people that becoming a household name is no overnight feat. From the day that Bimini first suggested it, to the joyful tears rolling down their faces as they came second on the X Factor, to their first single blowing up. They’ve worked hard every step of the way and been rewarded for it.

So why does Lawrence feel so ready to give it up? Part of the success that never ends is continuing to work, but for the past two months Lawrence has done nothing but eat, sleep, and sing. Her throat is raw and at moments she thinks she’s going crazy.

Her eyes catch her phone, dressed up in the delightfully tacky pink phone case that was a gift from Ellie for her last birthday. She picks it up and the screen flickers to life, displaying a picture of two girls with their heads close together and identical smiles.

Lawrence hasn’t spoken to her in far too long. Recently the whirlwind of life has swept her up to much for her to even think straight let alone have a conversation with a human being who is not also obsessively repeating lyrics under their breath.

“Hey.”

It’s a lonely word.

“Hey. It’s good to hear from you.”

Then Lawrence hears that voice, that accent that is so soft in her ear, and she could cry.

“I didn’t disturb you did I?”

“No hen, it’s fine, I only jumped so much at the ringing of my phone that I shaved some wee granny’s curls off but I’m sure she’ll forgive me.���

Ellie’s bored and matter of fact tone makes Lawrence burst out a laugh. “Poor Doreen, she’s really got to stop trusting you with those clippers.”

She can only imagine the way the corner’s of Ellie’s mouth might turn up at her teasing. “How is the salon anyway?”

“It’s in good hands. But babe, forget the salon, how’s your tour going?”

Even Ellie, the girl who knows her better than anyone else in the world, is excited for Lawrence and that only breaks her heart more. She grins ruefully, despite the knowledge that Ellie can’t see her.

“Honestly? I’ve been wishing that every show was the last show.”

Ellie’s little high-pitched noise of protest comes from her throat, her mouth undoubtedly in a little O shape with her eyebrows sliding upwards. “But you’ve only just got to Glasgow! You wouldn’t want to miss that!”

“Do you remember that trip to the theatre in primary school?”

A beat of silence at the other end of the line. “Of course I do. The one where I almost threw up on the bus because you fed me too many sweets?”

Lawrence chuckles. “Aye. Love how that’s the thing you remember about it.”

Miles away, Ellie shrugs cheekily. “I never forget friend abuse.”

“You’re such a wee cow, you know that right?”

“All part of my charm.”

“Anyway, being here is just making me realise how much I miss home. Tour is great Els, but I miss everything. I miss you.”

Ellie laughs. Lawrence shoots up in the hotel bed in outrage. “I just poured my heart out to you and you laugh at me?”

“First of all, not sure saying you miss me is pouring your heart out.”

She’s glad she chose to do this alone in the room and not anywhere near the other girls. She can’t begin to imagine the way that A’whora would pounce on her flushed face.

“Second of all, I wasn’t going to tell you this but I have a surprise for you. Listen.”

Ellie switches the phone to speakerphone and holds it away from her ear. In contrast, Lawrence presses her ear against the screen harder, knuckles white as she grips the pink case.

At first she can’t hear anything, just the faint murmuring of people talking in the background. She strains to listen for the sounds of hairdryers and flowing water. None of that comes and Lawrence lets out a huff of frustration.

“Ellie, explain to me exactly what the fuck I’m meant to be listening for?”

This train will depart at Glasgow.

Lawrence’s mouth dries completely.

“You’re coming to Glasgow?”

“No, just got on the train there for a bit of fun, I’m going straight back. Might not even get off the train it’s so comfy.”

“Get to fuck Els, I’m meant to be the funny one in this relationship.” Her mouth might be dry but her eyes aren’t, small jewels of tears welling up and threatening to spill over with every shaking word.

“I’m taking that title for now. I just need you to be the famous one in this relationship. You can do that, can’t you?”

“Ellie, for you I would do this entire tour all over again.”

Closer to her than she realises, Ellie smiles. “Good. See you on stage.”

“I’ll be thinking about you only.”

The call ends with a smile on Lawrence’s lips and a single tear sliding down her cheek. Suddenly she feels alright. And it’s gonna be so different when she’s on the stage tonight.

--

“Alright slags! Lawrence’s hometown so we’re gonna rock it just as hard as we always do. Hands in and United Kingdolls on three! One, two, three, United Kingdolls!” All four of them cheer, hoisting their hands in the air.

Their little preshow chanting may seem silly to other people but they’ve always done it. Even when it was only them singing covers with Ellie doing their hair and makeup, and A’whora ripping through charity shops to find decent costumes. It feels only fitting that they still do it now when they’re singing their own songs in professionally made costumes and makeup done by a professional artist.

Lawrence still keeps the style of her hair the same though. It’s changed colours a few times over the years, but it’s always in the same curls that Ellie brushed through minutes before the sixth form talent show.

Lawrence inhales as the music starts. The beat is steady and familiar, but tonight it feels so much more electric. She knows that the minute she’s on that stage she’s going to get blinded by that one beam of stage light that always finds it’s way to her eye, but she won’t feel blue like she always does.

When she gets on stage her eyes roam the massive crowd until she sees, in the very middle of a group of screaming girls, a head of baby pink hair. The sight of her proves to Lawrence that she’s still alive, and Lawrence uses that spark of energy to throw everything into her performance. She hits every note perfectly, her body moving in perfect harmony to the choreography that she usually fucks up at least once.

There’s a massive smile on her painted lips and she hopes that Ellie can read the smile, know that because of her, Lawrence is having fun on stage for the first time in months. There’s four of them in the band, but tonight Lawrence feels like a number one. The lights do not blind her but find her instead, shining like the sun.

They finish the first song with a flourish and Lawrence ignores the hundreds of screams to find Ellie’s. They still have the rest of the show, but Lawrence knows that they’re going to get through it and give Glasgow the best concert they’ve seen in years. Then she can stumble off stage and go from popstar Lawrence to Ellie’s Lawrence, falling into her arms and holding her tight. It’s gonna mean so much more tonight.

Because, somewhere in the crowd, there’s Ellie.

[bejouled1]

How to Choose the Perfect Custom Jewelry Piece for Every Milestone

Jewelry is more than just an accessory—it's a symbol of cherished moments and milestones. Whether it's a celebration of love, a personal achievement, or a unique memory, custom jewelry offers the perfect way to commemorate life's special occasions. At Bejouled, located in the heart of Glasgow, Scotland, we specialize in creating one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect your personal story. Here's a guide on how to choose the perfect custom jewelry for every milestone in your life.

1. Engagements: Symbolizing Forever Love

The engagement ring is one of the most significant pieces of jewelry you'll ever purchase. When selecting an engagement ring, it's important to choose something that embodies the uniqueness of your relationship. At Bejouled, we offer a variety of bespoke engagement rings that can be designed to suit any style—from classic solitaires to modern halo designs. Our expert jewelers will work with you to craft a ring that reflects your partner's personality and your shared love story.

2. Weddings: Bands to Last a Lifetime

Wedding bands symbolize the eternal bond between two people. Custom wedding bands allow you to create a set that is not only beautiful but also meaningful. Whether you're looking for a classic design or a modern twist, we offer a stunning range of women's wedding bands and men's wedding bands in Glasgow. Choose from different metals, finishes, and even engraving options to make your wedding rings as unique as your love.

3. Anniversaries: Celebrating Milestones in Style

An anniversary is a perfect opportunity to mark years of love and commitment. A custom piece can reflect the journey you've taken together. Whether it's a custom diamond necklace to celebrate a milestone or a remade piece that holds sentimental value, the possibilities are endless. At Bejouled, we can help you design a piece that commemorates your most cherished memories.

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Life's personal achievements deserve to be celebrated, and what better way to do so than with a custom piece of jewelry? From graduations to career milestones, a bespoke piece allows you to express pride in your accomplishments. Whether it's a diamond bracelet or a personalized pendant, each custom piece tells the story of your journey.

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Original Source /https://bejouled.blogspot.com/2024/12/how-to-choose-perfect-custom-jewelry.html

[spellscarred]

CHARACTER SEEDS

Under the cut you’ll find list of character seeds* based on bits of lyrics that I’ve really loved throughout my life. 

* I identify character seeds as the very basic concept of a character which can be taken and cultivated to one’s own wishes. A seed can grow to look like anything. These will just be your starting point.

“Visions and ambition never listened to submission and she was on a mission from the highest above.”

“Staring at the empty stares, realise that he no longer cares about wrong or right; the downward spiral begins tonight.”

“We locked eyes for just a moment or two, she asked why, I said, ‘I don’t know why, I just know.’”

“We are the wolves at the wall, we break in like a waterfall; you can’t fight us all and we’re not going away.”

“I am ready to explode like a tiger in a circus, cracking whips are all I know and I’m searching for a sense of purpose.”

“Black eyes, broken fingers, blood drips and I let it run down my lips into my swollen gums.”

“Your deceiving eyes, filled with lies and missed goodbyes and serpents hissing revelations.”

“She makes her crime scenes shine from heaven.”

“Will she wreak bloody vengeance or purr?”

“I have enough pain and anger in my brain to last many lifetimes; yet it still grows and the more that it shows, I won’t have peace of mind.”

“I have a dream and as strange as it seems, there’s no embers glowing; the fire’s gone out and there’s no need to shout, ‘cause no anger’s showing.”

“Take me wherever the answers linger in the sand, show me the way as the story unfolds.”

“I am a man without a mystery, the deal is done within; I will embrace the coldest winter breeze and pay for every sin.”

“Now it’s me and my knife and my will is my temple, numb from the choices I have to make.”

“I never lived in fear, I knew I’d die another day, I never viewed my life as something slipping away.”

“Sometimes our saints are sinners, they blur the lines and lead the way; raise hell and a glass in reverence, the fearless lives of our great saints.”

“Burn it all, burn it to the fucking ground, believe the words that I don’t want me around; life revision, indecision, world collision, and heads will roll -- with nothing left except the pain to show, mental manic driven overflow.”

“Help me find my way; no pulse inside of me, stone-cold lips and heresy, all lies and, to a degree, losing who I want to be.”

“I get the feeling just because everything I touch isn’t dark enough that this problem lies in me.”

“I’m only a man with a candle to guide me, I’m taking a stand to escape what’s inside me; a monster.”

“Marked for demolition, I’m just a timebomb ticking inside; no hope for the hopeless, I can see the pieces all laid out in front of me.”

“I am a little more provocative than you might need, it is your shock and then your horror on which I feed; so can you tell me what exactly does freedom mean if I’m not free to be as twisted as I want to be?”

“Sadly I’m destroying everything I’ve done and everything remaining is burning in my fire.”

“The smile on my face is burning, I cannot keep it on long enough; I want to hide myself from something that’s bigger than me, that I cannot control.”

“I plant the seed to make them struggle hard; I reap their tears, bring harvest from their misery.”

“Sin so thick you can’t see the stars, can’t tell good and evil apart.”

“One misstep, you’re mine, and you better stay clever if you want to survive.”

“I tried to kill the pain, bought some wine, hopped a train, it was easier than just waiting around to die.”

“I’m a street walking cheetah with a heart full of napalm; I’m the runaway son of a nuclear a-bomb.”

“I got fever highs, I got boiling blood, I’m that fire kind.”

“I’m not afraid of the storm that comes my way, when it hits it shakes me to the core and makes me stronger than before.”

“Name a pleasure -- one, a few; any form of lust in you will tremble at my touch.”

“I love these flames, I got this fire inside; take my aim, gonna set fire to the sky.”

“It irks me when I get burned and I realise I don’t get hurt, and always, it seems I’ve lost my way.”

“Come on, shoot faster, just a little bit of energy; I want to try something fun right now, I guess some people call it anarchy.”

“I’m a genius in disguise, wear my heart on my sleeve, and you’re forced to oblige a king in his prime.”

“I finesse like my life on the line, was a diamond in the rough but now I shine.”

“She just shuts her ears, she’s fallen too far with salt in her scar; the girl that time forgot.”

“He can see her Aberdeen heart, London eyes, Glasgow bone; she’s a whistle in the catacombs, a paradox.”

“I couldn’t find the fill again, I couldn’t seem to kill the pain; I was living in the moment, searching for a little serotonin.”

“Be kind to those around you, don’t be merciless; remember me for my name is Perseus.”

“I’m a picture-perfect face with that wild in my veins, you can hear it in my growl.”

“Please don’t get it twisted, come on, let’s be realistic ‘cause I’m not a role model, I’m just trying to get through my day.”

“I met a girl who kept tattoos for homes that she had loved; if I was her I’d paint my body ‘til all my skin was gone.”

“Away with these nightmares, away with suburbia shakedown, away; you marry a role and you give up your soul ‘til you break down.”

“You live the life you’re given with the storms outside; some days all I do is watch the sky.”

“This room’s too small, it’s only getting smaller, I’m against the wall and slowly getting taller here in Wonderland; this guilt feels so familiar and I’m home.”

[tiaramania]

Do you know of any tiaras in the Scottish Campbell clan? The chief is The Duke of Argyll so I imagine there must be some jewelry in the family. (p.s. I love your blog!! 💕)

There are at least two diamond tiaras that belong to the Dukes of Argyll.

Iona Campbell, Dowager Duchess of Argyll - we frequently see her wear a tiara at the Royal Caledonian Ball

Eleanor Campbell, Duchess of Argyll - she’s wearing the same tiara as her mother-in-law above left

The tiara worn by both of them has an interesting story.  It was lost along with some other jewelry at the Glasgow Airport in 2006.  Iona Campbell reported them missing to the airport and filed a police report but nothing every came of it.  Then in 2012, she noticed one of the brooches she lost in a Lyon and Turnbull auction catalog.  It turns out the airport found the jewelry not long after it was lost but instead of informing the police or checking their records they just sold it with the proceeds going to charity.  The family was able to get back the tiara, a diamond brooch, and a pearl necklace but an emerald ring and a pair of pearl earrings were lost forever.

[cilliansaccent]

Class of Temptation - CHAPTER ONE

Leave a like, reblog or comment below to show your support and love! Enjoy...

PLEASE READ:

No mention of Cillian's true family or relatives. All names are made up. 

This is a TEACHER x STUDENT fanfiction, it's going to be kinky and very taboo! 

I will write whenever the mood grabs me, so I apologise if there are long breaks between chapters :)

——- ——- ——- ——- ——- ——- ——- ——- ——- ——- ——- ——- ——-

Background: Tessa is a twenty-three-year-old model from a broken-up family, living in London with her best friend and starting a course on Drama and Theatre. Though, when she gets closer to the super hot Mr Murphy who is her much older teacher, there is a battle of lust and love between them. They’ll have to figure out what to do with their tight relationship as other issues begin to rise and nip at their heels... 

Word Count: 1,977

!!Warnings!!: None. 

Chapter Name: Happy Birthday

Brief Chapter Outline: Tessa celebrates her 23rd Birthday with friends and her two eldest sisters. 

——- ——- ——- ——- ——- ——- ——- ——- ——- ——- ——- ——- ——-

The pretty apartment was full of people chatting and drinking champagne or wine or beer. Pop music played from the stereo which set the mood pretty well. Esther had thrown her best friends twenty-third birthday party and invited all the girls and guys they had worked within the modelling agency. So it was well over twenty people. She looked over to make sure Tess was enjoying herself and spotted her chatting with her two older sisters. 

"Yeah, I am quite nervous though holy crap," Tessa laughed, pushing back her black hair behind a multi-pierced ear, "I start under three weeks now." "What course you gonna do again?" Aria asked, sipping her wine. "I picked Drama, Theatre and Performance Studies. I've also nailed myself in their band as a cello player." Tessa nodded, twirling her bubbling beverage between her fingers. "Oh! Right! I very happy for you." Aria gave her youngest sister a smile and a hug. Aria tends to forget things. "Yeah, I wanted to do more than just modelling. I want to expand." Tessa smiled. "Wonderful. It's good to do something different." Mila agreed, "Like me. I got out of modelling and now I own a cute boutique in Dublin showcasing Irish culture with the hubby." "I have yet to come down and see it. Maybe when I am on break." Tessa grinned, "Could show it off." "Ooo, you can! And Aria can show off her jewellery to." The girls let out soft laughter. Tessa was glad she had her two sisters here. It made her birthday's so much better to celebrate and no matter what they always got her something as if it was her twenty-first all over again. Mila had moved to Dublin when she was twenty-five with her then-boyfriend whom she had married about three years ago, they opened a shop together and now run a successful and famous store for about six years. Aria went to Glasgow with her fiance who been engaged since she was twenty-four, now shes thirty. There she makes hand-made jewellery and accessories for all sorts of people, no gender tags attached to it. And Tessa looked up to them the most, they were honest and hard-working and she aspired to be like them. So she would work hard in her new course and start a life that she was able to finally claim her own in some way. Though, within her, she would always miss her father who was forgotten in Amsterdam. Despite the bad falling out she had, she hoped one day to find a card or something from him. But nothing since she was nineteen. "Tess! Get your damn ass to this table! We got you your fave cake!" Esther called out. She was a beautiful girl, pale skin with freckles and rust coloured hair. Her eyes reminded Tessa of the emerald that Esther wore around her neck. Bright and ever-glowing. She came over and plopped down on the chair, giggling at the huge chocolate cake that had professionally made flowers that decorated the top. "Oh my god, I love it!" Tessa laughed and clapped her hands. "I'm glad you do, babe." She kissed her cheek. Tessa and Esther were... not really a couple but they acted like one. Neither of them was good with men so they pleasured each other on a daily occasion. But there were times when Esther would bring a man home, but Tessa wasn't jealous either. All she cared was that he was treating her right. She gazed up at her bestie, "Always knows what I like." She said and everyone began to sing Happy Birthday to her. She blew out all twenty-three candles after she made a wish, a wish that she would one day make her father proud. She thought of that every day. Everyone cheered and then took photos with her and made sure to update their social media. Tess had a large following on Instagram, it happened when you worked for pretty big fashion brands. And it seemed the majority lived in London for some reason and she would find some people walking up to her and asking for photos. Didn't happen all the time but it does happen. A good pro of being a model was that she got to travel, mostly to America or France for fashion shows or to model brands or make an ad. She loved it despite the tiresome work, she loved it a lot. "Tess, hey. I wanna tell you something super important." Mila came over as the cake was cut up and sent around. "Okay, sure." Tessa got up and walked with her back to Aria who seemed to be also waiting for this news. Mila took in a deep breath, her smile wide, "Jordyn and I are expecting our first child!" Aria and Tessa gasped, "Oh my god! Mila!" Aria cuddled her sister tightly, "Oh congratulations!" "Yes! I'm gonna be an aunty!" Tessa cried with joy as the three sisters hugged each other. "Oh god. Its been like two months now but I had to tell you guys. I wanted to like, keep it a secret and throw a surprise party but you know how I am." Mila laughed. "No wonder you aren't drinking." Aria laughed, "Usually you finish like five bottles by now." "Shut up, I am so not like that." Mila jabbed her shoulder with a finger. "Ow!" Aria pouted. "But no, seriously. Congrats. That is so cool. Are you going to find out the sex?" Tessa asked. "Oh, no. I want that to be a surprise for all of us." Mila nodded, "I'll make sure to throw the baby shower while you are on break so you don't have to stress out from exams or anything." "Okay, sounds like a good idea. But I'll also help out with ideas." Tessa said. "Same here," Aria chimed in. "Awesome. This is gonna be great." Mila beamed. The night continued on, rain pelted outside but it didn't take away the warmth inside the cozy, boho styled apartment. Esther loved her plants and animals, so she really made it nice when they had gotten enough money to start decorating. Plants hung around and colourful carpets beneath super soft couches that had fluffy throws and equally colourful pillows with animal patterns. They had a wall that was dedicated to just books which were Tessa's must-have. The whole apartment had a very chill and spiritual vibe, which made it so good to come home after a long and stressful day. The main room was all open, kitchen, dining and living room all visible and easy access. Opposite each side was their bedrooms and had their own private balconies. Most nights Tessa spent in Esther's bedroom in her bed. Naked. Esther's bedroom was also boho-inspired, white walls and dark grey ceiling and a low double bed with plenty of soft sheets and throws. More plants and a large desk with her laptop and other little items scattered across it. The french doors that led to the balcony had fairy lights that hung between the door and the heavy curtains. She had polaroid photos on a wall that she took when they were overseas, Tessa counted over a hundred photos that were still going higher. But when it came to Tessa's bedroom, it was more minimalist but had that touch of rustic. Mostly white with light grey tones and splashes of reds, browns or blues. Her bed was also a double but raised up with an oak coloured frame. Esther wanted some more colour in the room so she had added some pretty hanging pots off the wall above the bed, a crawling vine that outlined the doors to the balcony. She had said that it would make the photos she takes in the room to stand out more on her Instagram. Both rooms had a walk-in wardrobe that still didn't seem big enough from the clothing they had. That's what happened when you became a model, couldn't get enough with the fashion. The party died down as people began to go home, Tessa said good-bye to her sisters that were leaving early in the morning to go back home. Tessa came back inside and helped Esther clean up. "No, let me do it. You go pour a glass of red wine and I'll be right over." Esther said. "You sure? It's a lot to clean up." Tessa frowned. "I'll do some then do the rest tomorrow. I wanna see what you got." Esther kissed her lightly on the lips. "So eager." Tess laughed and went to the couch, poured herself a glass and waited. It wasn't long when Esther came over, "Okay let's see what everyone got you." Tessa began to open the mountain of presents, she got clothing and jewellery and shoes and money. Her sisters had a joint present of a super nice Prada hand-bag that Tessa always wanted. "So much nice stuff. Here is mine." Esther handed her a little gift bag. Tessa opened the letter and read it before she looked into the bag. She pulled out a box and inside the box was a pretty gold chain with a small diamond pendant. About half a centimetre in length. "Oh wow! Thank you, Esther! It's so pretty!" Tessa gasped. "Here, let me put it on." She said as she took the chain and slipped it around Tessa's neck. She kissed her soft skin gently. "Perfect," Tessa nodded as she turned and gave her a kiss on the lips. "Better than the rest of the presents?" Esther smirked. "I love all my presents equally, Es." She nudged her and gathered the wrapping paper in a bag and left it beside the front door. She yawned, it was already past midnight. "I might head to bed," Tessa said, as she left her empty glass in the sink. "Yeah, same. Today was busy." She nodded as they met in the middle of the room. "Thank you," Tessa hugged Esther tightly. "I appreciated what you did today." Esther beamed and hugged her back, "I'm glad you enjoyed yourself! I'll see you in the morning, beautiful." She kissed her cheek and they parted ways. Tessa changed into flannel pants and a shirt before she combed her hair and cleaned her make-up off. As she came over to her desk she spotted an envelope with her name written neatly on it. She didn't think someone would come in here, unless it may have been her sisters or Esther. But who could this be from? Why wasn't it given to her right away? Either way, she opened it up. It was a birthday card and quite a lot of cash fell out. At least a thousand pounds. And she knew who would be able to afford that much money and send it. Her father. She read the words as she sank into her chair. She had not heard from him for so many years since the day she left. So why now and send a heartfelt card? He had left an address on the envelope. She picked up the money and stared at it. More than a thousand. She sighed and laid it on the desk. She wasn't sure what to make of the card or the money. He had written how much he has been missing her and her sisters and how only Aria wasn't still speaking to him but Mila has. Tessa's gut feeling told her something was up, but she wasn't going to let this shit eat her up again. She wasn't going to fall into that dark hole she had managed to crawl out of. She left the money on the table next to the card. She didn't know what to do with it so she crawled into bed once she turned off the lights and tried to get some sleep.