#Double wall Board Plant

[melchinafan]

Massive kudos to the South of Midnight team for the attention to detail in environmental storytelling and character design! I know there's still a ton of stuff I can't even begin to guess at, but I've been able to glean a good amount just from the trailers, and it's all got me itching for more.

Some things I've been able to spot, just from these two screenshots:

I'd already kinda gotten the impression from Hazel's tattoo choker necklace and Lisa Frank-esque dolphin-rainbow tank top...but after seeing Lacey's half of a "best friends" heart necklace and jean jacket? I'd be shocked if this doesn't take place in or around the 90s. (Which is a solid choice, since it's a good way to limit having to worry about the question of cell phones.) Plus, if you take a look at their fridge, you can see magnets of the primary mythical creatures we'll run across! I listed most of them in the alt text if you can't tell what they are, but if I had to guess at the mystery cut-off one in the second screenshot...I'd say it's the Altamaha-ha from the announcement trailer. (Which I think is also maybe the purple-pink aquatic creature you can see for a split second near the end of the story trailer.) And...well, it's not visible in these screenshots, but in this scene Hazel also accidentally knocks a handmade mug off the counter. That mug has a bottle tree design on it, as featured in the game's logo and as important in-game magical elements!

Also fun is some of the detailing for Shakin' Bones:

His guitar has a Prospero license plate near the bottom (also seen on a half-sunk taxi that Catfish swims past in the gameplay trailer), which says CROS RDS (or "crossroads"). Below his arm you can see his name "Bones" carved into the face of the guitar, flanked by a couple Fleur-de-lis, and in a couple spots there's decorative blue paint (haint blue, I'd bet). Plus some short bits of bone (femur, at a guess), for both the bottom strap button and the tuning knobs. There's also a broken, rusted sawblade for a pickguard...which curiously has an elegant leafy design carved onto it. There's a similar leafy design carved along the top side of the guitar, too. Bones himself has a lot of different flora growing on him...at least two different kinds of leafy plants (small round leaves on his shoes, larger pointy leaves on his arms and neck), and some small brown mushrooms. And while I don't know enough about plants to recognize what those three might be, I'm pretty sure the flowers on his neck and side are swamp lilies. (The flower on his side is visible near the start of the announcement trailer, when you see him from behind. I'm also pretty sure I spotted some swamp lilies growing around Rhubarb's house in the story trailer, in their standard cluster form vs. Bones' unique singular flowers. Fun fact: for folks who play Secret World and remember a particular painting of some import in the Franklin Mansion, you may be amused to note that one of that flower's colloquial names is "seven sisters.")

There's also...well...these are a bit more spoiler-y, so I'll put them under a cut and try to keep it vague. But there's visual clues hinting at some secrets a few folks seem to have...

Less overtly secret, but still some story spoilers:

The most obvious thing at first glance in the first screenshot is the presence of Huggin' Molly's red yarn inside the broken wall. At second glance, and double-checking the start of the trailer to confirm the yellow paint and window style matches, this appears to be Hazel's house. But looking more carefully, one might notice that the exposed inner boards of the wall seem to have a little faded blue paint...suggesting that the house was protected with a hidden layer of haint blue (possibly in addition to the indoor wall paint that also appears to be blue), which wards off nasty critters. And with that ward literally broken, and Huggin' Molly being known in her real-world mythology to go after folks late at night, well... (Bonus fun fact: Secret Worlders may also be amused that the time on the clock in the first screenshot of this post is 10:10, as with Kingsmouth's clocks. Probably specifically 10:10 pm, not a storm-dark morning.)

And finally, a particular someone who seems to have deeper secrets:

(I linked the story trailer earlier, but the second screenshot is from the half-hour-long documentary.) The subtitles tell us this man is Laurent, and I'm curious about how significant his ear and nose piercings might be, given that he otherwise seems to be giving off airs of "responsible adult" (which typically does not permit such things). I have no idea who he is, exactly...yet his clothing choice and sense of decor are reminiscent of another design, which has shown up in the trailers and some promo/concept art that's been shared by the devs... But I'll let you dig up that connection on your own, if you're inclined to hunt down a bigger story spoiler.

[ryewwww]

Request: incel virgin!eren is a peeping Tom on his neighbor that does OF. Masturbation, peeping, blackmail, cum in pants, cum on face, forced orgasm, vibrators

-> hope this is okay! Sorry for any mistakes!!

⚠️: NONCON, OF model!reader, peeping, blackmail, use of vibrators, bondage, degradation

You were too trusting. Too sweet, too soft, too naïve for your own good. (Except you’re a liar lol)

Your parents bragged about you on Facebook. They thought you were a successful corporate girl, working in a big office, making good money. “So proud of our baby girl!” They posted pictures of you in a blazer, smiling like the perfect daughter.

But Eren knew the truth. You weren’t sitting in board meetings, instead you were sitting in front of a camera, legs spread, whining into a microphone.

When you moved in next to him (it’s a condo), he thought you were stunning. He watched from the window like a creep, seeing you prance around, excited for your new home.

He wanted to avoid meeting you. He’s really introverted and you were such a pretty girl, he’d probably embarrass himself and you’d never want to talk to him again.

But one evening, you knocked at his door. Eren was home, not expecting guest and when he looked through the peephole, it was you.

You stood there, a plate of cookies in hand.

You waited for a minute or two and just when you were about to turn around and go back home, the door opens.

“Oh, hi! I’m your new neighbour! I brought some Cookies for you to enjoy. They’re homemade, no nuts in case you’re allergic.”

“Thanks.”

He takes the plate from your hand and you introduce yourself.

“Nice to meet you…have a good day.”

He closes the door in your face, not even bothering to introduce himself.

Weird.

You settle in quite nicely, the neighbourhood you lived in was beautiful and safe. So you went for runs everyday.

Little did you know that while you were gone from the house, Eren would go outside, dig through the soil for the spare key he watched you plant, and enter into your home.

He couldn’t help himself. You were so sweet and so fucking hot, he needed more.

He walked into your home, went upstairs to your room to investigate.

He’s super techy so he hid little cameras all around your home while he was in there.

Stole some of your used underwear of course.

What he wasn’t expecting was the second room in the house to have various sex toys lined up, as well as a ring light and a camera.

He wasn’t expecting you to be an OF model but damn he was happy.

Fortunately for him, there was a banner with your onlyfans user on the wall.

So immediately he went back home and subbed to your OF.

His infatuation with you got worse over time

He had seen you. Had paid you. Had jerked off to you more times than he could count.

He spent thousands on you. (He made more money than he knew what to do with cause he worked in IT.)

He loved the special attention you would give him when he would give a massive donation. You’d even send him exclusive content for his generosity.

Eren would pay for you to fuck yourself faster and this sick mf would stand with his ear pressed into the wall, hands jerking his cock vigorously at the sound of your moans.

He was soooo close yet so far.

Like a stalker, Eren tracked down your family.

He was amused to learn that you had been lying to them and he wondered why.

But whatever the reason was, it still gave him something to hold over your head and he liked that.

The timing couldn’t have been more perfect.

The same night he tracked your family and found out you’ve been living a lowkey double life, you sent out an email to top donors about meeting in person for a date

It kind of infuriated him that he wasn’t the only person on the list. He 100% has given you more money than anyone else so he should be your top priority.

Like did all the private convos with him mean nothing to you?!

He responds fast, “I’ll give you $10,000 just for dinner.”

The next morning you respond, “Omg! That’s so sweet of you!”

Eren sends you some details about where to meet, since you weren’t comfortable giving your home address away. (Little did you know 💀)

Eren got dressed in nice clothes (that his mother forced him to buy). He shaved his face, washed his hair (for the first time in forever), and put some cologne on.

He arrived at the restaurant first, booked a nice private room for the two to you

When you arrived, the server lead you to the nice room and you were nervous but excited

You were fully expecting an old man to be in the room but when you walked in and see your neighbour, you can’t hide the shock on your face

You stood there, completely dumbfounded

“Y-your Eren?”

“That’s me. Take a seat.”

You release your breath and sit in front of him

“Wow, I was not expecting that.” You laugh awkwardly but Eren stays silence.

“So, um, how was your day?”

“Better now that I’m with you.”

His comment makes you squirm in your chair. “You’re so sweet”

You can’t hide the fact that you’re VERY uncomfortable. You didn’t know what to think or what to say.

So Eren takes over.

“I didn’t mean for this to be weird, thought you were really pretty since the day I met you. And one day, I came across your content and yeah, now we’re here.”

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to make this weird. I just wasn’t expecting this. But I mean we’re here now. So why don’t you tell me about yourself since you already know so much about me.”

He told you a bit about himself but not too much. He told you he worked in IT and you joked that it all makes sense now (because he sent you sm money)

Afterwards, silence swallowed the room

But thank goodness for the server coming in to take your orders.

Fortunately, the server was friendly so it lit up the room a bit, but after he left it went back to silence

Until Eren cleared his throat and asked the unexpected, “how much would you charge for real life services?”

Your heart beats faster at the question, “uhh, I don’t know. I-I actually wouldn’t do something like that. This is just a date, you know.”

“What if I paid you $1000 to sit next to me right now?”

“Just for sitting beside you?”

He gets up from the booth and gestures for you to slide in first.

You hesitate but ultimately decide what’s the worst that can happen? Plus you felt bad because he’s spent sm money on you.

Well, the worst that can happen is your hand rubbing his harden cock through his pants

He had you close, nearly on his lap as he inhaled your scent

And when he was close, his hand came down to yours, stroking his clothed cock harder till he came in his pants with a groan.

After the date, you wanted to Uber home but Eren insisted he drive you. Besides, it’s not like he doesn’t know where you live, he’s your fucking neighbour.

You both walk up to your doors, and you turn around to bid him goodnight

“Thanks for the date, Eren. And all the money you’ve sent me. I really appreciate it.” You give him a friendly peck on the cheek before unlocking your front door.

“Do your parents know what you do for a living?”

You pause before turning, “n-no. I’d like to keep it a secret from them. I’m sure they wouldn’t react well.”

“Right, because you lied to them about being in corporate, correct?”

Your eyes widen. How does he know that?

“I-I didn’t lie. I was working there and then they laid a bunch of people off. I needed some money to help me get back on my feet.”

“I mean, I’ve probably sent you a hundred thousand alone. That’s plenty to get you back on your feet.”

“Yeah, it is.” You turn back to the door, hurriedly opening it so this conversation could be done with.

But Eren won’t let that happen

“It’s a shame. I’d hate to see your parents disown you, but you’re leaving me no choice here.”

“You don’t know my par-”

He name drops and states where they reside and you immediately back track.

“Don’t, please. What do you want?”

“You know what I want.”

Eren had you tied down to your bed, vibrator buzzing on your clit as he face fucked you.

His hands were in your hair, yanking you back into the pillow as you gag around his cock.

He was rough, had no mercy on your throat

You couldn’t do anything, just focused on your breathing so you don’t pass out

He pull his tip up to your tongue, making you suck it before pulling out and releasing all over your face

You sob when he’s finally out, catching you breath before crying at his harshness.

“Shut up, you fucking slut. Be fucking grateful for this cock, otherwise, I’m gonna tell your daddy his precious daughter’s a whore.”

“No, please don’t! M’sorry!”

“Better fucking be.”

He comes down to your pussy, lifting your legs onto his shoulders

You’re already wet and prepped thanks to the vibrator

He easily slides into your fluttering pussy, eyes closed as he groans at your tightness

When he starts fucking, you cry at his pace

He’s rough from the start, doesn’t care that you’re overstimulated and sore, just cares about taking what he wants

He has you cumming around his cock over and over, no regard about your well-being

You hated every moment, but you were petrified of him telling your parents

How he even found them is beyond your comprehension but he knows who they are and he has the power to destroy your life, your future, and your reputation

So when he bends you over and breeds, you reluctantly let him.

He made you stop posting on OF

I mean he knows the internet better than anyone else, once you’ve posted, it’s gonna be on there forever

But with his experience, he was able to get a lot of them down.

Of course, he didn’t want other people to be paying for you

He wanted to be the one and only

And if you wanted your little secret to be safe

You had no choice but to agree.

[billielolly]

Sims 3 Build - Brownstone Townhouse

This brownstone townhouse is perfect for a large sim family - with a nursery and all. 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms on a 30x20 lot.

Watch the speed build: https://youtu.be/O5xdt7HCdFU

Download here:

Patreon (free): https://www.patreon.com/posts/109702177/

Exchange:

Expansion packs:

World Adventures

Ambitions

Late Night

Generations

Pets

Showtime

Supernatural

Seasons

University Life

Stuff packs:

None

Store content:

None

Custom content:

PralineSims - P-Glass Tiles III

Wandering Sims - Gentle Leaf Pattern 3

Wandering Sims - Nocturnal Watercolor Pattern 8

missyzim - Neoclassic Build Set (Window Arched Short, Arched Door)

Martassimsbook - cmdesigns Anemone Bathroom Set (Candle, Small Mirror)

Martassimsbook - Sims 4 Parenthood Xtreme Shower Tub

ATS3 - Canister

Martassimsbook - Syboulette Millennial Kitchen (Dish Soap, Dishes Rack, Utensils Pot)

Cakenoodles - 13pumpkin Rustic Wood Floor

Martassimsbook - Ars-botanica Cup of Pansies

Martassimsbook - Cowbuild Dahlia and Delpinium Vases

Martassimsbook - novvvas Planties pt3 (Ficus Lyrata V1, Ficus Elastica, Monstera Deliciosa)

Martassimsbook - Cowbuild My Home Set Hanging Pothos Plant

Martassimsbook - Novvvas Mid Century Modern Living Room Succulent 2

Martassimsbook - Lorelea Abstract Paintings

Julietsimscc - Dolce Vita Paintings (Small + Medium Frame)

Julietsimscc - Giveaway Gift Paintings (Without Borders)

Wandering Sims - Summer String Pictures 1

Wandering Sims - Summer String Pictures 2

johziii - Irene Posters

cozygirlsimmer - simkoos Simple Modern Tumbler

PralineSims - Beautiful Sheep Rug 4

PralineSims - Contemporary Carpet 32

Onyxium - Newell Rug

Angela - Michelle Bedroom Mirror

TheNumbersWoman - Shabby Chic Elite Living Curtains One Tile

TheNumbersWoman - Shabby Chic Elite Living Venetian Blinds 1 Tile Short

NynaeveDesign - Lyne Curtains 2x1

ATS3 - Toothbrush #2

Martassimbook - PsychicPeanutKitty December Clutter Books

Wandering Sims - Kids Wall Art 9

Wandering Sims - Kids Wall Art 14

Wandering Sims - Kids Wall Art 15

pyszny16 - Reading Corner Bookshelf

pyszny16 - Kilburn Bedroom Calendar

Julietsimscc - CWB Kids Bedroom Freebies (Unicorn Head, Teddy Bear)

Martassimsbook - Syboulette Dreamy Set Rug

ATS3 - Coastal Crib

ATS3 - Tam-Tam Bedroom Dresser

ArtVitalex - Kiester Bench

ATS3 - Apron

ATS3 - Rack with Chopping Board & Knives

ArtVitalex - April Kitchen

Lulu265 - Lily Dining Mirror

ArtVitalex - Rowlett Key Bowl

Mutske - Medium Palm

ArtVitalex - Ullery Living (Rug, Seat Double, Seat Single)

[simstorian-blog]

Residential Floorplan Suggestions

New York City: TWO

(CC List + Links)

World Map: San Myshuno

Area: Spice Market – Waterside Warble

Lot Size:  30 x 30

Capacity:

A Dive Bar

An Internet Café

A Pizzeria

A Tattoo Parlor

Bonus: 6 residential rental units floorplans completed – not assigned

Gallery ID: Simstorian-ish

Packs Needed

Expansion Packs

Cats & Dogs

City Living

Discover University

For Rent

Get Together

Get To Work

Growing Together

High School Years

Horse Ranch

Snowy Escape

Game Packs

Dine Out

Dream Home Decorator

Jungle Adventure

Outdoor Retreat

Parenthood

Spa Day

Star Wars: Journey to Batuu

Strangerville

Vampires

Stuff Packs

Crystal Creations

Home chef Hustle

Laundry Day

Moschino

Kits

Castle Estate

Courtyard Oasis

Cozy Bistro

Desert Luxe

Recommended Gameplay Mods

(Please read through what each mod has to offer before deciding if it fits your gameplay style or not.)

Carl’s Dine Out Reloaded

City Vibes Lot Traits

Functional Tattoo Parlor

Functional Venue Lot Traits

Lock/Unlock Doors for Any Lot

Spawn Refresh

Use Residential Rentals shared areas as Community Lots & Create Multi-Purpose Community Lots

Build Mode

CharlyPancakes

Chalk Pt.2 (Tiles)

Felixandre

Chateau Pt. 1 (Stone Foundation)

Chateau Pt. 2 (Doors, Metal Pieces, Tiles, Walls)

Colonial Pt. 3 (Fence 2, Plaster Foundation 2, Railing 2)

Florence Pt. 1 (Fresco Mural)

Grove Pt. 4 (Plaster Column, Plaster Floor)

London Interior (Dining Chair, Stool, Walls)

Paris (Cartouche Large, Corbel, Swag)

Schwerin (Terracotta Female)

SOHO Pt. 2

SOHO Pt. 3

SOHO Pt. 4

Harrie

Brownstone Pt. 2 (Traditional Door Frame – Med, Traditional Door – Med, Traditional Window 2 - Med)

Coastal Pt. 2 (Column)

Klean Pt. 3 (Concrete Floor, Painted Walls)

Kwatei Pt. 1 (3x1 BiFold, Double Arch, Single Interior Door)

Mutske

Stairs Add-on

Lijoue

Louer Collection (Iron Fence, Railing, Stone Stairs)

Peacemaker

Bistro Expanded (Awning 1x1)

Graffiti Mural 01

Pierisim

Winter Garden Pt. 2 (Double Door High, High Window w Bottom x2)

Sooky88

Checkered Marble Floor

English Country Wall Set (Subway Tiles, Subway Tiles w Wallpaper)

Scandinavian Wall Set (Plain w Tiles)

Syboubou

Neighborly 1 (Ceiling Outdoor Light, Mailbox)

Neighborly 2 (Interphone)

Buy Mode

AroundTheSims4

Laundromat (Seating x3 – Metal Base)

Tattoo Parlor (First Aid Kits, Gloves, Ink, Ink Display, Light, Saddle Stool, Tattoo Gun)

Cepzid

Functional Tattoo Chair

Felixandre

Berlin Pt. 1 (Curtain – Tall)

SOHO Pt. 1

Harlix

Baysic (Coffee Table, container, End Table, Kitchen Cabinet, Kitchen Counter, Kitchen Island, Kitchen Sink, Kitchen Trolley, Kitchen Accent Counter 1-3, Sofa)

Jardane (Leather Pouffe)

Kichen (Cabinet, Cups, Glasses, Plant, Shelf)

Kichen 2.0 Pt. 2 (Glasses 2 & 4)

Harrie

Shop The Look 1 (Armchair, Coffee Table)

Shop The Look 2 (Ceramic Side Table)

Shop The Look 3 (Circular Cushion)

Spoons Pt. 2 (2 Tile Glass Pedastal- Short & Tall, Counters, Espresso Bar, Island, Pastry Platter, Pizza Board, Shelving)

Kiwisims4

Blockhouse Dining (Booth Seating)

KKB

The Chilling Home (Module Bar Stool)

LittlleDica

Greasy Foods (Napkins, Salt Shaker, Stalls Door, Stalls Wall, Vents, Wet Floor Sign)

Modern Kitchen Stuff (Soft Breeze)

Rise & Grind (Décor Mural 2, Décor Syrup Bottle, Décor Wall Painting Menu, Dining Tables – All, Wastebun Counter)

Max20

Happily Ever After (Sign of Attention)

NANDO

Fashion Store (Ceiling Lamp)

Pierisim

Coldbrew Coffee Shop Pt. 3 (Menu, Paper Cup, Tea Box, Tips Jar)

MCM Pt. 1 (Simstudio Display)

MCM Pt. 4 (Kitchen Island)

Ravasheen

Shake and Shimmy Dance Floor

Shop Chef (Drink Dispenser)

Severinka

Industrial Light II

Simkoos

Clutter Dump Pt. 2  (Boba Notepad, Boba Stacked Cups V1, Cafeteria Straw Dispenser)

SimspirationBuilds

Toffee Pt. 1 (Art)

Syboubou

Catherine Sushi Restaurant (Wall Shelf 1 & 3)

Contemporary Haven (Armchair, Artworks, End Table, Sofa 3P Left)

Macaron (Counter Display)

TaurusDesign

Lilith Chilling Area Pt. 1 (Bartender Kit, All Drinks, SulSul Sign)

Tuds

Cave (Panel Light 2 x 4)

IND 01

IND 03

Turn Couch

Wondymoon

Fraxinus AIO Computer (DL on Patreon)

DO NOT REUPLOAD MY LOTS.

DO NOT CLAIM THEM AS YOUR OWN.

DO NOT PLACE BEHIND A PAYWALL.

Tray Files: DOWNLOAD

[hazbinshusk]

In everything you write, you characterize Blitzø so beautifully, I had to pass on the idea that came to me.

Blitzø with a partner who's very talented on missions, but just living their everyday life, they're actually very clumsy and he's so confused but also finds it so funny. Kiss prompt 34 or 21 🤷‍♀️❤️

interesting that you didn't go with the clumsy kiss prompt lol but this was really fun so here's...

prompt #34: a kiss after a bite

“My turn!” you call out with a grin, planting the head of the axe you’re wielding on the floor and using it to leverage yourself up to run along the wall. You do so just long enough to pass the bodies already bleeding out on the floor, planting both feet on the floor and spring-boarding towards the final target.

You swing in a high arch and bring the axe down hard, the blade sinking deep into the target’s back, right between the shoulder blades. You release the handle and land in a roll, neatly somersaulting a few feet and springing back up to stand.

The body met the floor behind you with a wet gurgling cry and a dull thump.

Tossing your hair back, you fix Blitzø with a bright grin. “Ta-da!”

The imp blinks as he takes in the performance, a fine spray of blood marking his face. A sharp-toothed grin grows over his features. “Fuck, that’s hot.”

You giggle, leaning forward to press a kiss to his cheek before turning to mosey back towards the body. You plant a foot on their back, jerking the axe back out of his spine. Blitzø follows you, and you grin as you feel him wind his arm around your waist and pull you back into him. His tail curls around the axe handle and pulls it out of your grip, and you turn in his grip to face him.

Your foot slips on the fresh blood pooling around your boots and you fall against his chest, your forehead knocking against his chin.

“Ow, fuck,” Blitzø sniggers as your grab at the lapels of his coat, slipping again as you try to right yourself properly. “Christ on a stick, you’re a fuckin’ mess.”

“Hey, I’m the one who—shit!” you slip again, and Blitzø’s laughter doubles. He rolls his eyes and bends down, hooking an arm under your knees and scoops you up into his arms.

“How can someone be so fuckin’ good in a fight when ya can’t even stand up, you clumsy bitch?”

“Shut the fuck—”

Blitzø cuts you off by kissing you, immediately sliding his tongue into your mouth. You moan lightly into the kiss, cupping his cheek in your hand, your thumb smearing the blood across his cheek. His claws tighten on the underside of your thigh and on your bicep, and you feel him shudder as your hand moves up to tease at the base of the spike at the back of his head.

Blitzø growls lowly into the kiss, and it turns to a hiss as your teeth sink into his lip.

“Ow! What the shit, you—”

You laugh, watching the fork of his tongue run along the place you’d bitten him. “That was for calling me ‘clumsy’.”

“Oh, yeah?” Blitzø smirks. “’n’ what are ya gonna do when I drop your tight ass?”

“You wouldn’t—” you yelp as he jerks his arms as though he’s going to drop you. You fling your arms around his neck in panic, and he cackles aloud. “Fucking dick!”

“Ooh, you promise?” he teases, and you brush your fingers over the crystal on his wrist. A portal opens up behind him, his office visible on the other side.

“Shut up and get me back to Hell, asshole.” you say, affectionate despite yourself. “And if you drop me, I swear to Satan I will—”

“Yeah, yeah,” he replies dismissively, bringing his face back to yours. “I get it.”

Blitzø kisses you again, deeply, walking the both of you back through the portal and into Hell.

send me a prompt and either husk or blitzø

[tiredofthehumanlife]

A happy home (realizations pt 2)

Title looks like a Midwest emo song name dude 🙏give me strength

Barbie dolls: Jegulus x reader (James, Regulus, Your punk ass).

Words: 2.4k ish

Summary: Reggie is all like muh I don’t deserve love I’m just a poor peasant boy then he’s all like muh i should ignore all my friends bc I’m just a poor boy from the bourgeoisie and then you and James are like no 🥺 pookie and then hilarity ensues

Warnings: it's kinda angsty but it ends happy trust, mentions of panic attacks, mentions of Remus' dick, Harry Potter possibly mentioned, James has a mustache for about three sentences, regulus is all emo, its alright guys first one waa better ngl

Pt 1

After you and James used the classic kiss & run technique on Regulus, his mind was swamped with questions. Baby Black was having yet another crisis. Barty and Pandora had started a tally board marking up all his catastrophes. He was somewhere around the double digits at this point. Regulus wanted love, as any poor emo poetry loving teenager, but he felt he didn’t deserve love. He wanted. He wanted so much. Regulus wanted a house with a screeching screen door. He wanted a wrap around porch. He wanted beautiful tiles in his bathroom. He wanted nick nacks. A cluttered home is a house full of love and life. He wanted color in his home. Regulus’ parents’ house (attention to house not home) was cold. Regulus wanted a home. He thought of it frequently, planning the decor and colors. He would go to his little home in his head for comfort. After panic attacks he found himself pressed into a rocking chair, sitting on his wrap around porch and staring out at the beautiful garden in the backyard. His book open in his lap, his favorite pen between his fingers, tracing over his initials. Next to his chair was a small table with a mug full of his favorite tea.

With the more time he spent with you and James, he felt his fantasy home adapt. Suddenly when he visited he found your sweater flung over the back of his couch, James’ pictures on the wall. Which he could accept. Friends left their things at each others’ homes all the time. Friends made it onto each other’s walls frequently. He could handle your friendship infiltrating his home. Regulus appreciated you both no matter how much he threatened to kill you. It was his love language.

Regulus seemed to pull away. Suddenly you never saw him in the library, he didn't appear next to you, he didn't even hang out with Sirius and the others. He was actively avoiding you both. You tried to pretend you were wrong and just making things up. You knew it was true after you saw him in the Gryffindor commonroom again. 

But after you both kissed him, granted on the cheek, he malfunctioned. Regulus’ home changed rapidly. He was rocking in chair again, following the vines of the tomato plants with his eyes. His train of thought interrupted by the squeals of a small child. Regulus wondered what on earth was a child doing in his fantasy home. A small boy, no older than three or four, ran around the corner of Regulus’ porch. His little bare feet stomping on the wood. Regulus felt himself smile like nature. The boy was decked in jean overalls, a red shirt underneath. A small truck printed on the shirt was peaking out from under the edge of the overalls. He looked like James, Regulus realized. The boy heard louder footsteps following after him and squealed louder. The boy jumped into Regulus’ arms muttering something about ‘papa’. Regulus looked up from the boy to see James. Though now he had grown out his mustache, and wore matching overalls with the boy. James scooped the boy out of Regulus’ arms. James pecked Regulus’ cheek before dropping the three year old back to his feet. He ran off, zooming around the garden patches. James quickly went after him. James raced after the boy. They both laughed. The boy squealed when James caught him and tickled him. Regulus tore his eyes away when he felt someone touch his shoulder. He found you sitting next to him, in a matching rocking chair. You moved your hand up to his hair. You looked older, like James, not by much but enough for Regulus to know you all had left Hogwarts. You kissed Regulus on the lips gently. He felt warm. You leaned closer and leaned into his ear. You whispered to him that you loved him. Regulus felt his eyes prick with tears and his throat dry. You stood up and took his mug off the table. You walked away muttering about him drinking so much tea people will think you’re dehydrating him like a raisin.

It was change. Regulus didn’t like change and he didn’t like identifying his feelings. He couldn’t like you and he couldn’t like James. You were in a relationship. He can’t. He couldn’t. But he wanted. Regulus knew he wasn’t ever good at controlling his wants. So he avoided you and James. Regulus knew if he made eye contact he’d fall all over again. If he fell his heart home would be crushed. Regulus had to protect his home.

Regulus was sitting with Sirius. They were both talking and laughing comfortably. It was one of the few times you've seen Regulus without his journal in front of him. He caught sight of you standing at the steps of the Gryffindor commonroom. Regulus' smile fell and he quickly stood up. Regulus muttered something to Sirius before swinging his bag over his shoulder. As he breezed past you, you whispered a goodbye. He didn't return it, he didn't make eye contact, he ignored you entirely. Sirius had asked you what that was about but you just left the commonroom as silently as Regulus.

You brought it up with James. He was just as upset as you. The one thing you both feared was making Regulus uncomfortable and that's exactly what you had done. You and James had to have burned your trails into the floors with all your pacing but you decided on what to do. You'd confront him. Even though it seemed all Black relatives hated confrontation it was all you could do. You confront and apologize and beg him to come back to the group. You both missed his insults so much you felt sick. You looked for him everywhere. Days went by before you were finally able to find him. He was hunched over in the library. Regulus was sitting as far away from his regular table as possible. He was scribbling away in his journal, as usual. He glanced up when he noticed people approaching. Regulus quickly shut the journal and went to grab his bag.

"Please." James whispered. James sat in front of Regulus. You sat next to James. Regulus stared at the ceiling before gently letting his bag drop to the floor again. He sat back in his chair and rested his hands on top of his journal. You steeled yourself, clutching James’ hand under the table for support.

“We’re sorry. For everything. We didn’t want to make you uncomfortable. We were just being-“ You paused. You wanted to make everything make sense to Regulus. You needed to explain yourself, you couldn’t live with yourself if you left this thread hanging. “Brainless. We were just trying to harmlessly flirt and we would’ve stopped the second we felt you uncomfortable. We misread you, obviously. We miss you. You’re avoiding us and the rest of our friends. We need you to come back. We’ll leave you alone, we won’t even look at you if that works for you, so long as you come back. So.” You stopped and cleanched your jaw. You felt like you might cry if you kept talking. Though you already seemed to do a lot of that. James dropped your hand to rub your shoulder.

“So, we’re so sorry.” James finished for you. Regulus stayed silent. He looked between you and James. You saw it in his eyes, hatred, disgust, repugnance. You felt sick to your stomach, knowing you’d only see his distaste in his eyes. Never seeing all of Regulus in his eyes again, made your throat close and tears collect in your eyes. You pressed your hand against your mouth, looking away from him. You would not cry in front of him. You would not make Regulus feel like this was his fault. James squeezed your shoulder, moving his soothing hand to your back.

“I’m not good.” Regulus whispered. You quickly looked at him. How could he think that? He was staring down at his journal. Regulus squeezed his own hands, you knew his rings must’ve hurt. Regulus sucked in a sharp breath. “At speaking how I feel. I usually avoid it. I’d rather sit in silence than speak up.” He looked up. His eyes had tears like yours. You hadn’t made eye contact with James since before speaking but you assumed he was probably teary eyed as well. Regulus slid his closed journal to the middle of the table. He stood and pulled his bag over his shoulder. Regulus tapped on the table with his pen twice.

“Just return it.” Regulus whispered before leaving the library. You watched him walk away. You looked to James. Your tears had left leaving behind pure confusion.

“Did we just get told to go fuck our selves in poetry nerd?” You asked James. He looked just as confused as you. He glanced at the journal.

“He did say he’s bad at saying his feelings, maybe he wants us to read his feelings.” You stared down the journal. It was bound in black leather. A small string wrapped around it thrice. It was unsuspecting. You didn’t want to read it though. That felt wrong, going into Regulus’ private brain like that. He was constantly writing. His deepest darkest thoughts, you assumed. You once sneaked a peak at Sirius’ diary and you truly never needed to know in that extreme of detail what Remus’ dick looked like. You looked to James. He stared at you. You pressed your lips together, contemplating. You gently picked up the journal, scared it would shatter under your fingertips. You unwound the string. You pulled the front cover up. You found the first page had Regulus’ initials. You smiled and held it toward James for him to see. He laughed and turned the page. You saw the pages were full of Regulus’ flowing handwriting. Overflowing really. The lines of his poems were pressed up against each other. His letters interning with each other like a lovers hold. If you weren’t already absolutely totally in love with him, you would’ve fallen more looking at his pretty messy letters.

The last poem made you melt entirely. Regulus started speaking of a cold home. All the walls stained with blood and screams. He moved. A nice home with a porch, a reading nook, painted walls, a coat rack, a garden in the back, and you. He moved into a home with his two lovers, their presence sweeping over every inch of the house. There was ding in the doorframe to your shared bedroom, James had pulled a dresser up the stairs and tried to squeeze it through the door. You had painted in small forgotten corners of the house. A sunflower on the side of one of the kitchen drawers, a moon added to the coat rack, a heart on the corner of Regulus’ bedside table. The back door was newer than the rest of the house, James had flung a snowball so hard one winter he shattered the glass. Regulus had started talking of the rocking chairs on the back porch. His sentence fell off, unfinished. You set his journal down, leaning back in your chair. James followed your lead. You both sat in silence for a few minutes. Baby Black liked you both back. Say that 5 times fast. You sighed. You stretched your arms over your head.

“McGonagall did say we needed 20 minutes of reading everyday.” You whispered to James. He nodded and pulled the journal closer between you two. You both held onto it with one hand leaning closer to each other to read Regulus’ writing. You read and read and read and read. Regulus wrote so much he had to get new journals fairly regularly. This journal started a few days before meeting Sirius’ friends. The fast few pages were Regulus stressed with his workload. After that there was the first mention of you. Regulus spent a whole page explaining how gorgeous he found you. He spent another page after talking all about how handsome and beautiful James was. All of which you agreed with.

After that all his pages were dedicated to you two. Slowly as you worked through the pages together, and the candles around you melted, Regulus fell in love. His words were frillier. He spoke of a garden, and tea. Regulus told all about laying in field of flowers. He painted images of you three deep in love and extremely domestic. Regulus wrote of pain. The pain of knowing it could never be reciprocated, you were already with James and James was with you. The pain feeling every touch warm his heart before burning his skin with his own insecurities. He wrote how the kiss situation felt for him. All roses and sunshine until his own sick mind turned it against him, making him think it was all some big joke on him.

“We are really bad at reading people.” James muttered. You gasped and sat forward. Glad somebody said it.

“Right?!? Oh god we just can’t catch a break.” You clicked your tongue. James gently closed Regulus’ journal, wrapping the string around three times. You huffed and stood up. You and James left the Library, it was closing soon anyway. You both decided you had enough time before curfew to go to Regulus.

You returned his journal. Regulus stood in front of you staring and waiting. You and James let it all out. Laughing at your stupidity, apologizing for making him feel like he was some joke even if it was only for a few minutes, and confessing that a wrap around porch and back garden sounded perfect. Regulus was happy. He smiled at you both before telling you curfew was sneaking up behind you. James decided you three would get together and make plans on how to move forward with your relationship on Saturday in the courtyard. Regulus agreed. As you and James were heading off towards your own common rooms, Regulus called your names. He ran over to you from his commonroom door. He quickly kissed your cheek before James’. Regulus skittered off back to his commonroom without a second to spare. You smiled brightly at James. He returned the look. He intertwined your hands, swinging them back and forth. James started skipping down the hall, still holding onto your hand. You joined him. You were both carefree

You didn’t have anything to realize. You already knew you loved them both.

[jpmarvel90]

Saved

Masterlist Nat Masterlist

Relationship: Natasha x Reader

Summary: A girl with no memories but her time as a prisoner at Hydra, is found by the Avengers. Natasha instantly wants to help the girl to recover and enjoy a normal life.

Word Count: 6396

Nat's POV:

Another day, another Hydra base. This one was the home of their super solider programme. It's where the Winter Soldier was created. So, this base was personal. Steve had initially wanted Bucky to stay behind on this one, but he was determined to come and take down the base which had destroyed his life.

Whilst Steve and Bucky worked their way through the building to plant the explosives, Tony and I were exploring to get as much intel as possible. Tony had found their offices and was downloading as many of the files as he could whilst also collecting anything that looked of value.

I meanwhile had stumbled across what I can only describe as a hospital from a horror movie. I can see rooms with hospital beds, but they all had straps on them, medical tools filling trays alongside the beds. I try not to think about what had gone on here. I eventually reach what looks like a prison. There are a number of cells, but they are all empty. Well, I thought they were until I reach one in the farthest corner of the room.

I had to do a double take when I saw a young woman huddled in the corner of her cell. Her eyes were filled with absolute terror. I manage to unlock the door and slowly make my way towards her, but she shrinks back further, trying to get as far away from me as possible but the wall is preventing. "P-please. No. I-I can't take anymore." She begs, tears filling her eyes. My heart breaks for her. Looking at her body, I can see dark bruising and some lacerations. "It's ok. I'm not here to hurt you." I try to reassure her, keeping my distance so she can see that I'm not a threat.

"I'm here to help you. To get you to safety." I try once again, hoping that she can see that I only want to help. "Bombs are planted." Steve confirms through the comms. "I've got everything I can. Nat are you done?" Tony asks, but I ignore it, not wanting to scare the girl more. I felt like I had to help her. I have to save her. "My name is Natasha. What's yours?" She asks me. I activate my comms so the others can hear. That way they'll know I'm safe and that I can't talk.

"I. I don't know. I don't remember." She starts to cry at that and all I want to do is wrap my arms around her and protect her. "That's ok. We can help you with that. Can you come with me, and we can protect you. Make sure you're safe." I ask her, reaching out my hand to her, but keeping my voice as soft as possible. She looks between my hand and my eyes. The pain and fear are swirling through her blue eyes. "I promise we won't hurt you. Me and my friends are the good guys. We just want to help." I say with a smile, hoping to put her at some ease.

She goes to reach out, but she hesitates. "It's ok. You're safe now." I promise her. I can see those words have an effect on her and she reaches out her trembling hand to take mine. I slowly stand up and use my other hand to help her to her feet. She stumbles and I can see how weak she is. When was the last time she had a good meal or saw the sun?

"I've got you. You're ok." I continue to reassure her as we make our way slowly out of the base. As soon as we reach the outside, she holds her hand up to cover her eyes as she squints at the bright light. But I notice that she takes a deep breath too, as if she is savouring this moment. She surely can't have been kept in that cell the whole time, could she?

We get closer to the jet and her body tenses as she sees the three men waiting for us. "It's ok. They are my friends. They won't hurt you." I encourage her to carry on walking. Her grip on my hand tightens, but she trusts me enough to follow me onto the jet. Sensing her fear, all three of the men keep their distance. Even Tony is being considerate. I see her eyes go wide as we board the back of the jet. "Wow." She whispers as her eyes take it all in. "It's pretty cool huh. This is our quinjet. It's going to take us back to our home where we can get you checked out and looked after." I tell her.

She looks exhausted but I can tell that she's too scared to even attempt to sleep. I guide her to a chair and strap her in. I then grab a bottle of water and take it over to her. I had noticed how chapped her lips were, suggesting that she is dehydrated. "Here, drink this. We'll get you some nice food when we get home. I just need to go and talk to my friends. But I'll just be over there. You'll still be able to see me ok." I tell her with a soft smile. Her panicked eyes dart between me and the three men waiting for an explanation. But she nods, slowly bringing the bottle up to her lips. A relieved sigh escaping as she swallows the cool liquid.

I stand up and make my way over to the others. "Who's that?" Tony asks straight away. "I don't know. I found her alone locked in one of the cells in what seemed to be a medical area. She doesn't remember her name and she's clearly been mistreated for a long time." I explain. I can see pain on Bucky's face as he observes the young woman. "Do you recognise her?" I ask but he shakes his head. "No. But I know that they did some pretty horrible things to people in that place. She's probably been through hell and back." He says, pain radiating from his eyes.

"I'll start going through all the files we have to see if I can find anything on her whilst we head back. I'll also get Cho and Bruce ready for the new arrival. She'll need a full medical. Just from observation she's severely malnourished and has had some injuries." Tony offers up, heading to the other end of the jet, knowing that she needed space right now.

I slowly make my way towards her and take the seat next to her. "How are you feeling?" I ask her, but internally scold myself at such a stupid question. "Who are you?" She answers my question with one of her own. "We're the Avengers. We try to stop the bad guys." I explain loosely. "What are you going to do with me?" Her voice is so timid as she talks, her tone laced with fear. "We just want to help you. We'll help you heal and start a new happier life. No more being locked away or fearing for your life." I tell her with a wide smile.

She doesn't speak again, lost in her thoughts. But I can see that she is completely aware of her surroundings. At any noise, her eyes flick to the source, a small flinch appearing. I stay sat next to her as Steve flies us home. I want her to feel some comfort and know that we're not going to hurt her.

After a couple of hours, we start to descend into the compound. Her whole body tenses as we touch down and the door slowly begins to open. Wanda and Yelena are both waiting like they always do when I return from a mission. But they can instantly see to keep their distance at the added presence of our new guest. "The red head is my best friend Wanda, and the blonde is my sister Yelena." I explain to the girl as I help her out of her seat, showing that they are not a threat to her.

She nods slowly, but her gaze is searching every new thing that she sees. She was exhausted when we found her, I can't believe that her body is still functioning now when she's been so alert for the entire flight. Her body is in flight or fight and I can tell it's taking every ounce of her to be aware in case she needs to protect herself.

I guide her to the medbay where Bruce and Cho are waiting. I can feel that Wanda and Yelena are following behind, but the others have left to give us space. Thankfully, they don't follow us into the bay, choosing to observe from outside. "This is Bruce and Dr Cho. They are here to help you. They won't do anything to hurt you. I promise." I reassure her, directing her to the bed in the middle of the room. But her breathing is becoming ragged, and her eyes are frantic, full of fear.

"Hey, look at me. You're ok. You're safe. They won't hurt you." I reiterate, cupping her cheeks so her gaze is focused on me. "I'll be here every step of the way. Ok." I smile and she nods slowly. "Hi, Dr Cho is going to examine you if that's ok. We can get an understanding of your physical condition and how we can help you." Bruce explains, his soft voice seeming to calm the girl slightly.

Bruce leaves the room, pulling the curtain to give us privacy as Dr Cho begins her examination. I have to fight off a gasp when the girl's shirt is removed, and I see that her torso is covered in scars and new wounds. "Did they do this to you?" I ask her, an anger bubbling inside of me. Her gaze drops to her hands as she nods. I look at Cho who's got a look of sorrow on her face.

She carries out the rest of her examination and we both help her into a clean pair of sweatpants and a t-shirt. I take the girls hand and give it a squeeze. "You're doing great. You're being very brave." I comfort her and I swear I see her lips turn up ever so slightly. I look through the window and see Cho and Bruce talking before they both re-enter. "Ok. We just need to do some blood tests and then we'll clean up your wounds." Bruce explains, turning to get a needle.

But as soon as the girl gets a glimpse of it in his hands, she starts to panic. "N-no. No. You said you wouldn't hurt me." She cries, looking between me and the needle in Bruce's hand. "He's not going to hurt you. He just needs to take some bloody to make sure you're not sick." I try to explain in an attempt to calm her down, but she continues to shake her head. "No. No more needles." She states at whisper. I look to Bruce who is unsure how to proceed. But we're interrupted by Tony entering.

"Wait." He says and we all turn towards him. Bruce places the needle back down on the tray and I feel the girls body relax. "I found your file." Her says looking directly to the trembling girl with a warm smile. "Your name is Y/n. Do you remember that?" He asks softly. She thinks for a moment but shakes her head. "That's ok. At least we know what to call you now. Are you ok if I share what I have here?" He asks her and she slowly nods.

"Y/n here is 22. She was taken by Hydra when she was 12." He explains to us, and I let out a small gasp. She's been in that hell hole for 10 years?! "She was a subject in their medical testing. Though it doesn't go into too much detail as to why. It just states that they were successful in removing all memory of her past." I feel such a sadness for Y/n. For her only memories to be of that base, being tested on daily. "They tested serums." Y/n's voice breaks the temporary silence, making us all look to her.

"Go on." Tony encourages. I've never seen him like this. He's so paternal towards her. It's warming to see. "There was a group of us. They tested the serums they wanted to use on their super soldiers. The serums I was given were meant to induce self-healing." She continues to explain, her gaze firmly fixed on her feet. There's a shocked silence to hear that. She was there purely as a test subject, presumably only there until they had succeeded, or she died.

"That's how you got these injuries? They were testing to see if it worked?" I ask when it finally dawns on me why she has so many injuries. We all watch as her head slowly moves in a nod. "After each test they would burn, cut and bruise me to see if it would generate any healing." She explains. I feel like I could cry. She was tortured for ten years. It's a miracle that she is even here with us today. Her body must have taken a hell of beating.

There is complete silence in the room as we take in what she just told us. We've seen horrible things in our time, but never seen one person go through so much for so long. Tony clears his throat and takes a careful step forward. "Y/n. I can promise you that we will never hurt you. We just want to help you, but we need to make sure you are healthy. If they injected you with a serum, the only way for us to ensure you're ok is to take some blood. I know you have had enough of needles, but once this is done, we'll take you to your new room." She speaks calmly and clearly which works.

"Ok." She agrees quietly. "I can stay with you if you like?" I offer. I want to be here for her. I want to help her heal, to protect her and never let her go through anything like this again in her life. "Please." Another whispered reply. I take her hand once again and give it a squeeze. "Keep your focus on me. Ignore what Bruce is doing. When we're done here, I can show you your new room and you can have a shower if you'd like?" I offer, trying to distract her. It only partial works as her eyes scrunch up as Bruce puts the needling into her arm. "You're doing great. Y/n." I tell her, squeezing her hand to offer her some comfort.

Once Bruce is all done, he cleans up Y/n's wounds and clears her to go to her room. She'll have to come back daily to get her dressings changed and her injuries checked and cleaned, but otherwise she was free. Something that obviously was alien to Y/n. "Come. Let me show you to your room." I tell her, standing up and waiting for her to follow. She does so slowly, her body clearly starting to shut down without her consent.

Thankfully, it's not far to her room. "Here it is." I say, opening the door for her. "My room is next door and Wanda's is across the hall." I point to the doors so she can see. I then step inside the room but she doesn't follow. "You can enter Y/n. You are free to come and go as you please. This is your home, not a prison." I explain to her, realising that she probably has no memory of her own room. Assuming she ever had one in her childhood. "There are some clothes in the wardrobe and draws, but we can go shopping to get you something you like in the coming days." I explain, opening the doors and draws to show her.

"This is your own bathroom. There is shower gel, hair wash, a toothbrush and toothpaste." I point out and then show her how to work the shower. I'll leave you to get cleaned up. But I can come back to get you for some dinner later this evening if you'd like. Though you are free to leave the room before hand if you want to." I say, trying to make it clear that she doesn't have to wait for command here. "Thank you, Natasha." She gives me the faintest of smiles and I find myself getting a little lost. She really is beautiful. "Please, call me Nat. All my friends do." I tell her and her smile grows slightly.

After leaving Y/n, Wanda and Yelena are quick to question me on the new addition to the compound. I struggle a little to hold back the emotion when telling them how I found her and what she's gone through. What has she done to me? I normally have complete control of my emotions, but when it comes to her, my feelings are so much stronger.

They both promise to support Y/n as much as they can without overwhelming her. Wanda is probably best placed to help her. She's been through something similar, although not to the same extent. I hope that in a few days when Y/n has settled more, that she might be comfortable to talk to her.

I speak with Tony, and we agree that it is probably best that we don't throw her in the deep end with a team dinner. Instead, we keep it to just four of us. Tony and I, who's she's familiar with, and Yelena and Wanda, who we want her to feel comfortable with. As she is so malnourished, Bruce has given us some indication on the foods and portions she should have over the coming weeks until she's able to regain her body weight. Wanda takes this as her mission to cook her the tastiest of meals with the limited ingredients.

Y/n is very quiet during dinner. Only talking if directly asked a question and only moving or doing anything if she is given approval. It's going to take time for her to realise that she doesn't need to have permission to do anything here. That she isn't confined to her room until someone tells her she can leave, or that she can't eat until she is given permission. But I know that I want to be there for her through every step of the way. Supporting her as best I can.

__________ 

Y/n has been here for a little of three weeks now. She's starting to look a bit healthier. Her wounds are healing nicely, she's putting weight on and she's getting colour back to her face. She loves spending time outside, basking in the sunshine. I guess if you've not seen it for 10 years, you don't want to miss out. She's slowly becoming more comfortable with the team. Everyone is great with her, not pushing her and understanding her boundaries.

She's probably closest with Tony, Wanda, and myself at the moment. But she's getting better with Yelena and Bucky. She still won't do much of her own accord. We make sure that she's not cooped up in her room or missing meals because she's waiting for someone to say it's ok for her to do so.

One night, I'm not able to sleep. My mind is lost in thought of Y/n. She fills most of my thoughts each day. We're getting glimpses of her true personality and I love it. She has a quick wit, though I can tell she is hesitant to use it. Scared of any repercussion. But it's becoming more apparent as the days go by. She's also extremely kind. She's so thoughtful of others. She's making such an effort to learn about everyone on the team.

Wanda and Yelena tease me. It's very clear that I like her. I tried to hide it after the first week, but it's no use. Wanda can literally read my mind and Yelena knows me better than anyone. Besides, I don't want to hide those feelings. Not from them anyway. I think it's far too early to even broach that topic with Y/n. At the moment, I want to be the best friend to her that I can be. We have time.

Whilst my mind is replaying Y/n's laugh on loop, I hear a muffled cry. I focus on the sound and notice it's coming from Y/n's room. I jump up and make my way next door. I knock on her door but get no response. "Y/n, it's Nat. Are you ok?" I question. Again, I don't get a response, but I can hear muttering and crying. Worry taking over, I open the door to be greeted by an empty room. The bed perfectly made.

I rush through the room to check the bathroom, but as I pass the bed, I hear her voice. My head turns and I see Y/n lying on the floor with a thin blanket draped over her. She's having a nightmare. I kneel down next to her and carefully place my hands on her shoulders. "Y/n. It's Nat. You're ok. You're just having a nightmare. Come back to me." I say as calmly as possible. Which is hard when I'm seeing her in such a panicked state. Not a split second later, her body shoots up and she starts to gasp for air, her eyes flicking around the room, trying to find something to ground her.

"Hey, Y/n. Look at me. Focus on me." I tell her, cupping her face so her eyes land on me. "You're safe." I remind her. "Try and take a deep breath with me." I instruct her, doing exaggerated breathing myself to guide her. It takes a while, but eventually she's able to copy and her breathing become less ragged. I slowly run my thumb over her cheek to help calm her as her eyes flick over her room once again. "The bed too soft?" I question and she nods, looking at her hands in shame.

I place my finger under her chin and raise it. "Don't be ashamed. I was the same after I got out of the red room. Took me a few months to get used to sleeping in a bed. I always felt like it was suffocating me." I share. She's listening to me intently as I speak. "I feel the same. I'm used to the hard floor." She mumbles. "How about this. Why don't we lie together in the bed. You don't have to sleep. We can just talk." I suggest. This helped me when Clint would sit and talk with me.

She nods and I help her to her feet. I then move to the bed and pull the duvet off. I grab the blanket and lie on the bed and tap the space next to me. I know the quilt will be too much to start of with, but she needs to keep warm. She takes the spot next to me and I hesitantly place my arm around her shoulders. I smile to myself when I feel her relax into my hold. I lay the blanket over us both and we spend the rest of the night just talking. It was probably the most I've heard her talk. She would ask questions about how I adapted after the red room, and I would offer tips on what might also help her.

After that night, our relationship only grew. She still slept on the floor at night, but I would always go to bed with her, and we'd lie in the bed until she was feeling like she was drifting off. I would leave and she would get comfortable on the floor. As time went by, she started to sleep a little. I was so proud of the progress she was making. "It's ok Nat. You can go to your own room tonight. I need to start doing things myself and it's not fair to keep you from your own room." She tells me which makes me frown. "But I like this time with you Y/n." I admit easily.

She smiles widely at that. "I do too Natasha, but you're not always going to be here. I need to get used to doing this on my own." She makes sense but I still pout at her. "Doesn't mean we can't still cuddle." She says shyly. "One more night?" I request and she sighs. "Ok." She chuckles, opening her door for me.

I'm loving the person that Y/n is becoming. Or returning to be, I guess. She's finding herself and it's a journey I'm proud to be a part of. Her and Wanda have grown close. They have a sisterly relationship. Wanda has helped her come to terms with what happened to her whilst she washeld captive by Hydra. They have a shared experience and I'm glad she's got someone that she can share that with.

She's grown more confident, and I was so proud of her when she started doing things of her own accord. We were sat watching TV and I noticed Y/n's gaze kept going towards the kitchen. I paused the movie and look to Y/n. "Everything ok?" I question and she quickly nods, returning her gaze to the TV. "You can tell me." I assure her and she huffs. "I uh. I want a snack." She admits as if she's just admitted to a felony.

"The kitchen is there, and Tony did the shopping this morning so there is plenty on offer." I encourage her, trying to motivate her, not giving her the go ahead to do it. This was the first time she shared a want, and I was keen for her to take it without needing permission.

I watch as she hesitates, Wanda and Yelena's gaze also on her. Slowly, she pushes up off the sofa and makes her way into the kitchen. She's in there for about 10 minutes before she comes out with a small KitKat bar in her hand. I was so proud as I watch her eat the chocolate bar. When she was done, I wrapped my arm around her and held her close. "You never have to ask to get food." I remind her and she slowly nods before resting her head on my shoulder.

__________ 

It's been three months since Y/n joined us and it has genuinely been the best three months. She's a completely different person to the one that arrived with us. She's still shy, but she understands her freedom and she is finding her footing. She spends a lot of time with Tony in his lab. Turns out she's got a technical brain and loves working on his gadgets. The whole team have fallen in love with her. She's like our own personal ray of sunshine. Which, considering how she was when she arrived, is a miracle.

I think it is safe to say that I am in love with her. I want to spend all my time with her. She's the last thing I think of before I go to sleep and the first thing in the morning. I'm infected by Y/n, and I love it. I just don't know how to approach her about it. I don't want to scare her away. But I'm like 90% sure she likes me too. We've had a couple of moments where we've almost kissed, but it's never resulted in anything, and I never want to pressurise her to do anything.

Our little bubble is burst though when I'm sent on a week long mission. I've been away for day missions, but nothing longer. I've always been home by the evening, having a snuggle with Y/n before bed. I'm going to miss being with her and I can tell that there is an anxiety for her too. But maybe this will be good. It'll give me time to think clearly about how I'm going to approach this whole situation.

Y/n's POV:

The first couple of days of Nat not being here were hell. I realised that she was my security blanket. I knew I was safe if she was around. Don't get me wrong, I know none of the others would hurt me, but with Nat, I feel completely safe and protected.

It's been a bit of a whirlwind three months. I never knew that life could be like this. All I knew was the darkness of the place I was held. The pain and fear that I lived in constantly. I don't know why I kept fighting to stay alive. The easier option was to let go. But I didn't. Now I think it's because deep down, I knew I hadn't met Nat yet and she was meant to change my life.

She has been so patient with me, helping me acclimatise to being 'normal'. She's always there to support me, allowing me to find my way in my own time. In the odd moments that I'm not with her, I crave to be with her. It's a feeling I'm not familiar with. I don't have it with anyone else here. Yet I like all of them. They have become a family, something I didn't know about. Or at least didn't remember. But with Nat it's different. It's like everything I do is for her.

Seeing her smile and laugh is my favourite thing. To most people she has this tough exterior, but I've never seen that directed at me. I've never felt anything but kindness from her. She's a big softy towards me. Though I've learnt not to say that to her. Sam made a joke about it and he was swiftly on his ass. Much to everyone else's amusement.

After Nat had been away for a couple of days, I decided that I couldn't mope around without her. She wouldn't want that. Instead, I spent time with Wanda and Yelena. They both had become like sisters to me. Both protective, but also quick to make fun of me in a light-hearted way. I love the relationship that I have with them, and it's them that keep me sane for the rest of the week.

It's Friday and we've been notified that Nat and Steve are returning from their mission. I jump off the sofa and run towards the Quinjet landing pad. But as I get closer, I see Bruce and Cho waiting. "What's wrong?" I ask Tony who's just joined us. "Nat's hurt." Is all he says. I feel like someone has just kicked me in my stomach, making all the air leave my lungs.

I just stand there as I watch the jet land and Nat be rushed off the jet on a gurney. As she passes me, I rush to keep up, not wanting to be far from her. She looks in a bad way. There is so much blood. Too much blood. I watch as Bruce and Cho rush around trying to fix her. I can see from the machines that her heart rate is becoming thready.

I step forward and hold her hand, feeling her cold skin which sends a wave of panic through me. "Please don't leave me." I beg her as tears start to fall. "Y/n, we need you to stand back." Bruce asks quietly, but I don't want to let her go. I can't lose her. He asks again and I know I need to let him do his job. My mind is focusing on her being with me, alive and healthy. She has to survive. I go to drop her hand but there is a soft glow which makes Bruce and Cho stop in their tracks. "Y/n what's going on?" Tony asks me with a panicked voice. "I-I don't know." I respond, fear washing over me.

"Oh my God look." Tony points out towards Nat. I turn to see what he's pointing too, but I start to feel lightheaded. My sight starts to blur and all the sound around me becomes muffled and the next thing I know, I'm surrounded by darkness.

_________

"Please wake up." I hear a distant, pleading voice. But I still only see darkness. "You told me not to leave. I'm asking you the same thing." The voice begs. Is that Nat? Is she ok? Confusion washes over me as I try to figure out what's going on. Sounds become more prominent, and I can hear the slow beeping of a machine. "Y/n?" The comforting voice calls. "Her heart rate is changing." I hear a male voice now speak. "Is that a good thing?" Nat questions. Why can't I see anything? "Yes, very good. It's getting stronger." The other voice confirms.

I start to feel a pain in my head, and I squint my eyes to stop the pain. "She moved." Nat points out. Slowly, my eyes start to open, but the bright light only aggravates the pain in my head. "The lights. Dim them." A third voice says. As the glare of the light reduces, I open my eyes further and they land on Nat. I quickly sit up, shocked that she's beside me, conscious. "Whoa! Stay down Y/n." She tells me, gently pushing on my shoulders. "You're alive." I whisper and she nods. "I am. But you need to take it easy." She tells me in a warning voice.

I look around me and see that there are wires attached to a drip and a heart monitor. I then meet the concerned gazes of Tony, Wanda, and Yelena. "What happened? Last I remember you were the one in the medbay." I say, trying to sit up. "You healed me." Nat says with a look of disbelief on her own face. "Excuse me? I what?" I question, not sure that I heard her properly. "You healed me. But it drained you and you passed out. You've been unconscious for two days, your heart barely beating." She explains.

"How are you feeling?" Bruce asks, stepping forward. "My head hurts, but other than that ok." I admit and he nods. "It seems like one of the serums they injected you with enabled you to heal others. They were so focused on self-healing, that they didn't even think to check for that." Tony says. "I healed you?" I turn back to Nat asking for clarification. "Yeah. Not even a scar left on me." She says holding up her shirt to show where two bullet wounds once were. I reach out and run my fingers over her abs in disbelief.

"I thought I lost you." I agonised, remembering the fear I felt that she was slipping away. "I can't live without you." I admit through tears. "And you don't have to. I'm here. Safe and sound because of you Y/n. You saved me." Nat says taking my hand. I hadn't noticed that everyone else had left and it was just the two of us now. "I owed you after you saved my life." I tell her through a watery chuckle. "I would save you ten times over Y/n. You have changed my life. When I woke up and I saw you on the bed next to me barely clinging to life yourself, my heart broke." She expresses, her own eyes glossing over.

"Y/n, you mean so much to me. You have changed my life since you came into it. I can't hide my feelings from you anymore. I love you. I'm in love with you. I know you might not feel the same, but I have to tell you. I can't bare the thought of something happening to one of us and you not knowing the depth of my feelings." I'm in shock as I listen to her speak.

Is this what I've been feeling for her too? Love? I can see pain start to grow in her eyes as I don't respond, the shock almost incapacitating. Tears fall down her cheeks as she goes to leave, but thankfully, my body reacts, grabbing her hand and pull her back. Before she can even say anything, I cup her face and bring her towards me so I can connect our lips.

The sensation is electric as if the world had disappeared and it was just the two of us in this moment. Our lips move in perfect harmony. Nat's hands rest on my hips, giving them a gentle squeeze. My whole body feels a warmth rush over it, butterflies erupting in my stomach as our lips dance together, sharing every feeling we need to share in this moment. As our movements stop, I rest my forehead against hers. "I think I love you too. I've had this feeling I've not been able to understand for a while. But that kiss just explained everything." I say with a laugh as Nat's smile grows.

She leans in and kisses me once again, this one more hungry as my back hits the hospital bed. She deepens the kiss, our tongues exploring each other's mouths, as the passion and desire between us intensified.  I let a small moan out into the kiss as she presses her body against mine. That noise causes her to pull back slightly, and I let out a little whine. "Patience my love. This is all new for you and I want to do this properly." She tells me, which causes me to raise an eyebrow at her in confusion. "I want to go on a date with you." She smirks.

Thank God, she made me watch endless rom coms these last few months or I'd have no clue how this whole thing was meant to go. But over time we grew together, not rushing our relationship. It was perfect to me. When I looked in her eyes, all I saw was pure love and I hope she saw the same in return.

She made me unbelievably happy. There was a time that I never thought I wouldn't get a happy ending. A time when I questioned my purpose. But now, led here in Nat's arms, feeling safe, protected, and loved. I finally understood why I had to keep fighting. I needed to get to her and live our lives together in happiness. 

[simspaghetti]

Ancient Modernity Makeover DOWNLOAD

Hello!! I had a few requests to put this build up for download, and since I just recently hit 800 followers (eeek!! Thank you so much 😭😭) I figured this was a good gift to show my thanks!

Disclaimer: The original version from Gen2 of my Random Legacy uses a ridiculous amount of CC but this is a stripped-back model to make it more accessible for most players, if it looks different that’s why!

Tour Pictures:

Download & more info under the cut! ⬇️

Basic Information:

Price: Furnished = §85,896 / Unfurnished = §48,259

Lot Size: 40x40

2 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms

Furnished for 2 Sims (A Couple), 1 Baby/Toddler and 1 Dog 

Potential to turn the upstairs fashion studio into a bedroom as well

Expansions Needed:

World Adventures / Ambitions / Supernatural / Late Night / Seasons / Pets / University Life / Generations

I appreciate that this build still uses quite a bit of CC, so for my minimal CC playing folks, I’ve also made an unfurnished shell version, which uses much less!

Unfurnished Shell CC:

BlamsEAStore:

Casually Corrugated Wall

Plants: Lovely Lupin / Bird of Paradise / Swiss Cheese 

Dolly Door

Posture Glass Double Door

Greenhouse Window

Muntin Window

Other Creators:

AA6x7 Halved Progress Industrial Chic Window (Only the ‘top’ version)

(Solar Redux) A Sensible Panel 

Additional CC for Furnished Version:

‼️You also need everything from the 'Unfurnished Shell' CC list‼️

Blams EA Store:

Bedside Cabinet-Ish End Table / Tropical Leaves of Repose / Murano Retro & Ripe Fruit Bowl / Alvar Vintage Chill Well Refrigerator / Grandmother’s Cooktop / Dirty-No-More Changing & Bathing Station

AroundTheSims3:

Ilona’s Kitchen Cabinet / Bree-KEA Kitchen Cabinets (Just the Normal version & the shorter version) EcoLiving Power Generator / Summer Festival Stylist Station

Other Creators:

Basimcly Simple Curtains Mutske (TSR, sorry!) Florence Curtains ChasmChronicle (MTS): DIY Curtains, Blinds & Shutters - Only the 'Medium rolled up blinds' are needed! Twinsimming: Curtain Call - Both Billionaire’s Curtains & Fashion Forward - Trending Style Board (final) / Industrial Clothing Rack / Clothes by MLys (without dress) KandiRaverSims: Cats&Dogs - Bella Curtain (Both sizes) & Laundry Day - Ironing Board / Shelving Essentials

TOU: Don’t reupload or claim as your own, tags on posts aren’t necessary but are definitely appreciated :) - Feel free to modify or refurnish the build however you want!

➡️ DOWNLOAD IT HERE

(Simfileshare Folder with both Furnished & Unfurnished versions included)

These are library files, so they go in your The Sims 3 -> Library folder

Alsoo this is my first time uploading a build, so please let me know if you encounter any issues!

Have fun using this build in your game! I’d love to see pictures of your sims using the build if you do tag me, and thank you again for 800 followers - it's bananas that I've hit that number, I'm so thankful to all of you!! :D

[pocketseizure]

King Mode

Using his parachute cap, Luigi arrives at the final castle early only to find that it’s not set up yet. Bowser invites him to talk, and Luigi confesses his disappointment that his green hat has become synonymous with easy mode. Bowser puts this into perspective before making a confession of his own.

complete at 1,350 words . ( also on AO3 )

. . . . . . . . . .

Luigi glided to the upper balcony of the castle. As soon as his feet touched the ground, the green hat in his hands shrank down to its normal size. He pushed back his hair and replaced his hat on his head as he stepped across the threshold.

He expected to be met by traps, but instead he found a koopa and a shy guy sitting on a bench and eating sandwiches. The koopa greeted him with a wave.

“Hi Luigi! You’re here early,” she said. “We’re still getting set up. The boss is in the back. Just head down this hallway and take a right. It’s a bit of a mess, but you’ll be fine.”

Luigi didn’t know what he expected. “Okay,” he replied. “Thanks, I guess.”

“Nice place, isn’t it?” the shy guy added.    

It certainly was. Bowser’s team had been taking care of the castle flowers, which looked as healthy as they’d ever been, and the carpet running down the center of the stone floor was freshly shampooed.

“Yeah, it is nice,” Luigi agreed, not knowing how else to respond. “Well, enjoy your afternoon.”

He set off down the corridor. Piranha plants were already arranged along the walls. A few offered their snouts, and Luigi pet them absentmindedly. He took a right at the end of the corridor and abruptly found himself in a cavernous hall whose floor was submerged beneath a swamp of bright purple ooze.

This would have been a problem if he didn’t have a magical hat that doubled as a paraglider. While everyone else had to navigate obstacles by trial and error, Luigi could just glide and enjoy the scenery. That was why he was here early. So early, in fact, that the scaffolding over the poisonous pit hadn’t been removed yet. A few gnarly vines thumped lazily on the boards of the shaky wooden platform, but Luigi had the luxury of ignoring them as he crossed.

The throne room lay on the other side of the makeshift bridge. Aside from a thick jumble of electrical cables snaking across the floor, the chamber was empty. With nothing else to do, Luigi seated himself on one of the oversized plush chairs and made himself comfortable as he studied the colorful mess of objects occupying the room. He couldn’t make sense of most of it, but it was clear that Bowser intended to pull out all the stops for this performance.

If he waited long enough, Luigi decided, Bowser would show up eventually. Sure enough, as soon as the thought entered his mind, there was the man himself.

“Luigi! Good to see you,” Bowser called out. “I was just taking a break. Want some coffee?”

“Wouldn’t you prefer to battle to the death?” Luigi asked as he accepted a mug.

“Maybe later,” Bowser offered affably, seating himself on the throne next to Luigi’s.

Luigi tried the coffee. It was surprisingly good. “Is there any way I could convince you to give the Flower Kingdom back the… what was it you took this time?”

“Just their castle. Sure, I’ll give it back. But I’m not done with it yet.”

“Don’t people live here?”

“Would you want to live in a giant castle with bad plumbing built over a poisonous swamp? I’m telling you, this place was practically begging for renovations.”

“That’s a fair point. Sorry for getting here early, by the way.”

“Don’t apologize! It’s good to see you.” Bowser flashed his teeth. “And besides, the Yoshis have been running around the castle since this morning. They’re handy little buggers. Who do you think made this coffee?”

“Yoshis drink coffee?”

“Don’t dinosaurs drink coffee where you’re from? Listen, I want to show you something we’re installing on the lower level,” Bowser said as he passed Luigi an electrical panel adorned with a comically large red button.

“I’m not sure I should push this.”

“Come on, I’ve been working on it for weeks. You’re gonna love it.”

Luigi shrugged. What was the worst that could happen?

As soon as he pushed the button, a set of wall panels dropped to reveal cannon barrels. An explosive bang reverberated across the room as missiles fired into the room. They moved slowly, their flight governed by motion stabilizers. Each trailed a puffy cloud of rainbow-colored smoke.

Luigi considered how he might navigate this hazard. Jumping from missile to missile would require keen reflexes and precise timing. Or, as he had done up to that point, he could simply glide. Not much challenge there.

“That’s impressive,” Luigi said, doing his best to infuse his voice with enthusiasm.

“Damn right it is,” Bowser agreed. “You could even say these missiles pass with flying colors.”

Luigi nodded. “I like the rainbow. It’s always good to take a shot in the bright direction.”

The missiles hit the far wall, and the castle shook. Luigi cringed as the thick electrical cables hanging from the ceiling swayed with a menacing looseness.

“You don’t seem all that impressed,” Bowser observed. “I can take critique. Lay it on me.”

Luigi knew that Bowser could not, in fact, take critique. Mercifully, it wasn’t Bowser’s work that was the problem.

“I was just thinking about how it’s a classic combo, the bullet bridge over the poison swamp,” Luigi said. “It’s a fun obstacle course to navigate, if you have the skills, but that sort of thing always gives me trouble. I assumed I would get better, but I never did. Now I probably never will. I’m starting to feel bad for using my hat to bypass traps like this.”

“Why would you feel bad?”

Bowser seemed confused, so Luigi told him the truth. “It’s like I’m going through this on easy mode.”

“And what’s the matter with that?”

“It feels like cheating. And worse, I hate that it’s my green hat that’s become the symbol of just gliding through a level.”

“Hey, I worked on this project for years with the help of my staff and the entire Flower Kingdom. Don’t you think I want people to see as much of it as possible? No one is going to appreciate the full extent of my brilliance if they quit halfway.” Bowser laughed and clapped Luigi on the back. “You keep saying ‘easy mode,’ but I think they should call it king mode!”

“Don’t mind that I got here early?”

“Of course not. Junior’s away from the castle, and everyone’s busy with last-minute prep. I don’t have much to do until Mario and the princess get here, and I wanted to spend time with you. That’s why I made those adjustments to your hat. Didn’t I tell you?”

Luigi finished his coffee, savoring the moment. Bowser, who normally couldn’t keep his mouth shut, hadn’t said anything about this before now. Luigi supposed that he didn’t mind. In a world built for people like Mario, it was nice to feel welcome and included.

“So, now that I’m here,” Luigi prompted, “what do you want to do?”

“I was hoping you’d ask! Did you get a chance to try the wonder seeds on your way to the castle?”

“I took every chance I could get. Wonder seeds are way better than mushrooms. Back at home, there are so many mushrooms that I’m always tripping on them.”

Bowser snorted in approval. “I can see how that doesn’t leave mushroom for adventure. But wouldn’t you know it, I happen to have a high-quality batch of wonder seeds not available to the general public. This is the king’s own stash,” Bowser boasted as he presented Luigi with a velvet bag.

Luigi selected one of the chestnut husks and pulled its sprout, revealing a seed of an unusually brilliant turquoise blue. Something this neon couldn’t be healthy, but Luigi’s time in the Mushroom Kingdom had taught him not to be picky. With any luck, this wouldn’t be the strangest thing he’d put in his mouth before the day was over.

“Here’s to king mode!” Bowser toasted before emptying the bag of seeds into his mouth.

“Here’s to king mode,” Luigi agreed. He took a bite of the wonder seed and sat back to enjoy the show.

[stylemydwell]

DIY Floating Shelves: A Stylish & Functional Addition to Any Room

Looking to upgrade your space with a practical yet stylish solution? DIY floating shelves are the perfect way to enhance any room—whether it’s your living room, kitchen, or bathroom. These minimalist shelves not only add extra storage, but they also elevate your home’s aesthetic with a modern touch.

Here’s everything you need to know about creating your own floating shelves!

Why Choose Floating Shelves?

Floating shelves are a sleek and contemporary storage solution that gives any room an instant upgrade. Their no-visible-brackets design makes them appear as if they’re floating on the wall, creating a clean, clutter-free look. Plus, they are versatile, making them suitable for any room in your home!

Living Room: Showcase books, plants, or decorative pieces.

Kitchen: Store spices, utensils, or coffee mugs.

Bathroom: Perfect for towels, toiletries, or candles.

What You’ll Need for This DIY Project

Wood Boards: Choose a wood type that matches your room’s style (oak, pine, or reclaimed wood are great options).

Brackets or Floating Shelf Hardware: These keep your shelf secure without visible support.

Screws & Wall Anchors: Make sure to match these with the type of wall (drywall, plaster, or brick).

Power Drill & Level: To ensure the shelves are securely mounted and level.

Paint or Stain (optional): To add a custom finish to match your décor.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Floating Shelves

Step 1: Measure and Mark

Start by deciding where you want your shelves. Measure the length of the wall and mark where you want the shelves to be placed. Use a level to ensure everything is aligned.

Step 2: Cut the Wood to Size

Cut your wood boards to the desired length (most shelves are around 3-4 feet long). Sand the edges smooth for a clean finish.

Step 3: Attach Floating Shelf Hardware

Install the floating shelf brackets or shelf mounting system onto the wood. Follow the instructions that come with your hardware to ensure a secure fit.

Step 4: Mount the Shelves on the Wall

Drill holes in the wall where you’ve marked and insert the wall anchors. Then, mount the shelves onto the brackets, ensuring they are secure. Double-check with the level to make sure everything is even!

Step 5: Final Touches

If you’re using paint or stain, give your shelves a coat of finish that suits your room’s vibe. Let them dry before adding items to them.

Styling Your Floating Shelves

Once your floating shelves are up, it's time to style them! Here are some fun and creative ways to make your shelves pop:

Layering Books: Stack books vertically and horizontally for an artful look.

Greenery: Add small plants like succulents or trailing vines for a touch of nature.

Personal Touches: Display family photos, art prints, or unique collectibles.

Lighting: Consider adding small LED lights to illuminate your shelves and create a cozy ambiance.

The Bottom Line

DIY floating shelves are the perfect blend of form and function, offering a clean, modern look while maximizing your space. Whether you’re looking to organize or display your favorite items, these shelves will elevate any room in your home with a personalized touch. Ready to get started? Grab your tools, and create your own floating shelves today!

Pro Tip: Don't forget to share your finished floating shelves with your followers and inspire them with your creativity! ✨

[heaven-s-black-box]

Like the Saying Goes...- Double Life Ensemble

Return to File

Recovery date: December 19th, 2023

Description: The participants are left to ponder double life as they return to their regular lives.

Notes: N/a

Word count: 677

Back to directory

Tilly death do us part.

Pearl grinned as she tied up another bin chicken in her store. She was convinced Ren was stealing them for eggs, though she didn’t know why. Maybe it was some friendly competition from Gem or Impulse, her neighbors in both business and housing, and she’d find them hanging around her base later

Tilly, he’d made a pun. At the time, she’d been too caught up in panic to catch it but she’d had plenty of time to rethink. Laying in bed at night, restocking, gathering materials, building, Scott’s goodbye wouldn’t leave her head.

Death did them no part.

History does not take kindly to lovers.

Jimmy sits in his explosives shop, hat tilted over his eyes and leaning back in the crates of tnt. It’s much hotter here, and brighter. The terracotta reflects the sun back into his eyes and the heat sticks to the ground, maybe a trip to a more temperate climate was in order.

He’s got a box in his lap, closed and locked. Grian had given him an incredulous look when he’d asked for a clipping of his red string, he’s sentimental like that. It’s tied around a poppy and a spyglass, tucked against the side of the box filled with trinkets and pictures.

They weren’t really lovers, he smiles, but they were close enough for the universe.

It takes two to tango.

Impulse swings his pickaxe down into the stone, breaking out more room for his base. It’s not quiet, he can hear the river outfront and his neighbors arguing. His mind drifted back to being poolside with Bdubs and planning how to break up the other couples.

They’d pulled them apart, planted seeds of doubt, and it would’ve worked if they hadn't underestimated the trust of the other duos. They’d tripped up Scar and gotten cocky, they’d been the ones who tripped over Cleo and Etho.

It takes two to tango, and theirs was the smoothest.

Red at night, sailor’s delight. Red in the morning, sailor’s warning.

Etho is watching the sun rise over the server when Joe makes the comment as everyone enters the tcg arena. Beef wonders if they should move inside incase it rains, Etho finds himself admiring the way the sun sets the world aflame.

He’d done that once, side by side with Joel. The world never stood a chance as they took vengeance for the relation-ship. It was almost ironic how they’d found their end in burning lava. As it starts to rain, he chuckles to himself.

They’d delighted in the red flames burning down the server, but there’d been no rain to save them.

Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer.

Cleo’s balance wavers as they build up their city, and they panic. They throw their weight backwards, falling against the wall and feeling the wind rush out of their rotten lungs. There’s a sharp pain as they collide with the stone, and suddenly they’re back on the diving board.

Martyn had caused them so much pain, and in turn they’d taken so much from him. He’d been their greatest weakness, and they’d let him roam free. They’d angered the witch because he left them.

They made the mistake of letting their enemy walk away, when they really should have kept him close.

History repeats itself.

Scar is paving out more of Scarland’s road when his tower Warden lets out a roar, making him jump. It rings out through his head, merging with that endless echo, and he has to take a second to re-compose himself. Grian comes up to him as he sits on the edge of the flower bed in the roundabout and takes a seat.

Jelly wanders across the road, and suddenly they’re back in the panda sanctuary. They’re bound together once more by Scar’s recklessness. Scar is following his every whim and fancy as Grian desperately tries to keep them alive. In the end, they always find their way back to each other.

They will always find each other, and it will always be their undoing.

[merryfortune]

Nice Try

Written for the Rare Kink Buffet / posted for Hikaru's birthday

Prompt: Human/Alien — The alien’s culture requires them to marry anyone who defeats them in battle. The human finds out this also applies to board games.

Bonus points for F/F.

Title: Nice Try 

Ship: Lala/Hikaru

Fandom: Star Twinkle Pretty Cure

Rating: T

Word Count: 1,637

Warnings: None

Tags: Mid-Canon, Humour, Interspecies Relationships, Fluff, Getting Together

   Upon mutual agreement to play Uno together, neither thought much of it. It was probably just going to be a fun few rounds of the card game until one or both of them got bored. For now, it seemed better than staring at the walls until the other girls arrived at the rocket ship to hang out.

   For Hikaru, the citizens of the planet Saman were all sticks in the mud with a superiority complex. Lala was no doubt going to be delightfully competitive, though she was secretly baffled that her folk had any concept of fun. After all, they thought things through logically as dully with overreliance on AI. Though, the double edge in thinking that was, at least Lala was going to pick up the rules of Uno quickly and stick to them. 

   For Lala, meanwhile, she perceived humans as a lesser species. They were whacky and lawless, primitive in the brain and technology. She was honestly surprised they had concept of rules and law at all since they were so behind on development that the Earth was exempt from intergalactic alliances and the like. So, she saw so issue with sitting down with Hikaru to learn the game Uno despite knowing something that Hikaru did not know about the game.

   “Oh my goodness, uno!” Hikaru cried out as she placed her final card on the pile.

   Lala’s eyebrow twinged. This was the end of all their games. Every single game so far had resulted in the same outcome: Hikaru wins and Lala loses. It didn’t matter who cut the deck, who was dealer, and what the starting hands looked like. Lala could have had the advantage for most the game and then out of nowhere, Hikaru would become the underdog. Their friends would be here soon so this was now the final outcome of all their games as it was unlikely there would be enough time for one more round. As Lala had been begging the past five rounds.

   So now, Lala was at the end of her wits. The pile of cards was high and so were tensions. Fraught debates on if “add four” and “add two” cards stack, and they totally do of course, and the tension of keeping an eye on each other’s shrinking hands. It had been a long fight, a terse back and forth full of passion and intensity.

   Lala’s heart pounded out of her chest whilst Hikaru treated it far more casually. She wasn’t a sore winner or anything, laughing and smiling, though her expression changed as something twigged in Lala’s demeanour. Her trembling shoulders, her blushing expression.

   “Y-You have won, lun.” Lala stammered. “Every. Single. Game.” She sounded as thought she were seething.

   “...Yeah, something the matter?” Hikaru asked, blinking owlishly. “Do you want to play again or do you wanna play something else…?”

   Her voice trailed off in confusion as she watched Lala abruptly stand up from the table in the central control panel of the rocketship. The table and chairs bustled as Lala got to her feet and her expression underneath her fluffy bangs of cyan were unreadable.

   At this point, she was scaring Hikaru who could only watch as Lala snapped.

   And lowered herself to the floor.

   On all fours, hands planted to the metallic tiling, Lala announced, “Hikaru! I am in your care, lun. Please take responsibility and marry me, please, lun!”

   “Huh?” Hikaru exclaimed, amazed in her confusion.

   See, that tricky little extra detail that was known only to Lala, an eligible adult woman of Saman, was that this game counted towards her home planet’s marital and courting rituals.Why wouldn’t it? 

   For any Saman over the age of thirteen, all games were prohibited unless one was certain they would win or wanted to marry the loser. That is how it had worked for the past thousand years. The traditional, uncivilised bloodbath had been a bygone relic for the Samapedia pages for centuries at this point. 

   These days everything from stars-data-asteroids to hopscotch counted, even the AI encouraged the matches that it made to play these games to prove the projected compatibility. Her parents had become betrothed in this manner playing marbles.

   Thus, for all intents and purposes, this game of uno which was a thrilling intellectual challenge with a swirl of luck and chance had been perfect for deducing one’s compatibility and affirming betrothal. Regardless of it Hikaru had known it or not because Lala had been determined to win. After all, only losers pledged themselves to the winners. Not vice versa. Losing on purpose was considered ignoble in all circumstances.

   All circumstances meant all circumstances, after all. There was no room for black and white thinking or nuance amongst the Saman. Lala hadn’t escaped her programming that far yet so, that meant, if she had lost to a human on Earth playing Earth games that counted all the same as if she had lost to a Saman on Planet Saman.

   Besides, for Lala, the thought of having to return to that place and marry anyone but Hikaru hurt her. She didn’t know what these feelings were but they were welling up inside of her at unprecedented levels. She loved Hikaru: her one true friend, her first friend at all. A human who challenged her and the rest of the worlds out there in outer space. She punched her way through injustice and villainy, all with a smile and a beautiful singing voice.

   It could only be Hikaru, Lala was certain. She had given her all to defeat her and yet the cards came crashing down with the word uno, cascading in red, yellow, green, and blue.

   Therefore, there was nothing that Lala could do, as stubborn and prideful as she was, than submit to Hikaru who was bewildered beyond all belief. Her ears began to redden as Lala’s words sank in and she tried to understand what the heck was happening.

   “Wh-What? Lala, slow down, what are you talking about?” Hikaru’s hands waved a flurry in front of her as she panicked.

   Lala looked up from the floor where she knelt. Her eyes gleamed with determination. There was a pink mark on her forehead from where it had been touching the floor begging for this marriage.

   Her seriousness only served to scare Hikaru further, however. Hikaru’s heart pounded like crazy in her chest and she blushed. 

   Lala inhaled deeply, her body tensed, and upon her exhale, her exclamation was loud enough to echo through the insides of the rocketship - as well as Hikaru’s ears. Hikaru’s eyes began to all but spiral in her confusion. She was flattered, she was nonplussed, she was everything and more to Lala as her hand in marriage was asked for. Those five words resounded.

   “Will you marry me, lun?” Lala asked.

   “I-I can’t!” Hikaru squeaked.

   Lala’s expression furrowed, “Why not, lun?”

   “I-I’m only fourteen.” Hikaru murmured, shy.

   “So?” Lala tilted her head. She stood up and her hands curled into fists by her side.

   “The age of majority in Japan is eighteen, that’s why!” Hikaru protested.

   “But not on Saman, lun.” Lala pouted. “On my planet, it is normal for our age group to find one another, even marry, lun. We have laws, we have rules, if you are defeated in these fateful game, you must ask: will you marry me, lun.”

   Hikaru stood up and sighed understandingly. Her expression softened and she drew in closer to Lala. She took her hands, played with them, swung them left and right.

   “I know at the moment,” Hikaru murmured, “it feels like we only have the here and now, yeah? ‘Cause one day, it’ll be all over. You’ll have to go home and I’ll have to stay here. I-I can’t go with you, I can’t marry you, Lala. N-Not yet, anyway.”

   Lala stared. She was visibly disappointed by the outcome. Her shoulders slumped, her lips quivered. However, Hikaru’s non-committal stance did, at the very least, inspire hope. Lala tightened her hands underneath Hikaru’s and her hands slipped along the edge of her slender fingers. She traced her knuckles and drew the shape of stars on her skin to soothe her.

   “Hikaru, lun… I really like you, I’ve never felt this way before about anyone, lun.” Lala mumbled.

   “I really like you, too, Lala! Then let’s make a promise.” Hikaru said. “When the day comes that Earth can join the alliance, that’s when I’ll marry you.”

   “B-But that’s so far away, lun!” Lala argued. “That could be ten, twenty, even a hundred years from now, lun!”

   “Then we’ll have to keep doing our best as Pretty Cures so it’ll hurry up.” Hikaru giggled.

   Lala considered Hikaru’s proposal. It didn’t exactly delight the instant gratification centres in her brain now that she had accepted that she wanted to marry Hikaru for more than the rote reasons of society and culture. She had lost the games but she didn’t want to lose Hikaru to time, to the stifling rules of the Intergalactic Alliance.

   Regardless, Lala sighed. There was nothing she could do about it. She had to respect humanity just as much as Hikaru was making the effort to respect her own origins.

   Lala lifted her antennae. The yellow orbs crackled with electricity. She blushed ever so slightly in her disappointment.

   “I will wait then, lun.” Lala huffed, stubborn as ever.

   Hikaru giggled and she raised her hands. Her fingers, save for her index finger, curled in against her palm. She pressed the pad of her index finger against Lala’s antennae and she shuddered. Hikaru felt more than just a jolt of mild electricity at the gesture: she felt all of Lala’s fingers. Complicated, dramatic, and uniquely hers in confessing her tender feelings.

   “For what it's worth,” Hikaru teased her, “I can’t wait until I’m old enough to marry you.”

[tkwritesdumbassassins]

WIP Train Tag!

Double tagged by @poetikat and @hannahmationstudios (Thanks guys!!)

The rules are: for each letter of the word you're given, share an excerpt from a WIP that starts with that letter. The words that I was given are TRUE and GAIN.

TRUE (Courtesy of @poetikat)

T- The man who sat opposite of nonna wasn't exactly what Isotta would imagine when she heard the word 'Crow.' Not like the stories the other children in her old town would spin about the infamous guild. Sure, he wore fancy dark clothes made of imported silks and she caught the flash of a silver crow skull on his cuff link, but beyond those, he seemed...typical. Normal. Just another man amongst an evening crowd. (Caveat Chapter IX Unposted)

R- Rather her back thumped against the wall on the opposite side of him, smacking the toe of her boot against the ground before stomping it altogether. A childish, petulant action that no doubt would have earned a cuff to the back of the head in her youth. Still, it felt grounding as she rubbed at her forearms.

Meanwhile, she heard more than saw Lucanis shift to face her, his shoulder still planted against the door. "It's the last thing my mother ever said to me, alright." (Caveat Chapter IX Unposted)

U- Until now, but one thing at a time. And as a result, she forced the flexed hand at her side to relax.

By the end of her explanation, Lucanis' dour expression turned grim as he adjusted one of the cuff-links on his sleeves. "First Antaam, and now Venatori." He looked conflicted, as if unsure if he should be offended or impressed by such a notion. "This does not bode well." (Caveat Chapter IX Unposted)

E- "...Every single one chose to ally themselves with those who'd see the most of us enslaved or wiped off the board if it served their interests. They chose this life, and I have no sympathy for the likes of dead men." (Caveat Chapter IX Unposted)

Lucanis paused in the door frame, hand splayed out across the half-shut door. "Good."

GAIN (courtesy of @hannahmationstudios)

G- Glad someone was for it just dawned on her they were operating on scarce bread crumbs. Isotta wondered not for the first time if what they were doing was even the smartest path in the first place. But on the other hand, waiting for Erudito to act wasn't a risk she was willing to take.

"What—?" she began to respond in Trade before her thoughts whirred to life, albeit sluggishly, once she realized he had asked her in uninterrupted Antivan. She fell silent, eyes immediately averting to the window in embarrassment. How long had it been to have a full conversation in her mother language with someone other than Silvana? (Caveat Chapter VIII-Posted)

A- A single black manicured nail tapped against her porcelain cup as she expanded: "Losing not only your children but your wife as well—"

The Crow said nothing, only sipping from his tea again. His only real acknowledgment a slight incline of his head. The man's ethereal eyes flicked her way again, and Isotta resisted the urge to shudder. She had looked into the literal eyes of madness, and yet true cold fear coiled itself around her throat, nearly choking her when he looked upon her. "How old is she?" (Caveat Chapter IX Unposted)

I-"Isotta, do you not know what tonight is?" Andarateia Cantori— or 'Teia' to those few people she called friends— chose to ignore both her declaration and her withering glare as she laid the bag out on the bed with the reverence of a holy artifact, smoothing out any imaginary wrinkles.

"Yes, I do." She did not, but she wasn't in the mood to entertain whatever whims the Seventh Talon had in mind. She had a date tonight, and it was with her bed. "And the answer is still a firm 'no.'" (The Corvid Court-Unposted)

N-Not when her feet felt cemented. Not when mild irritation had her eyes flicking down to the collar at his throat. So intent on getting answers from her, he had not only missed a button but the silver crow that sat there looked at her crookedly with its head nearly on its side. In other lights, she'd be amused, but irritation had the corners of her lips dragging downwards. (Caveat Chapter IX Unposted)

I no pressure tag: @say-lene, @selunesdreams, @satashiiwrites @redhairedmuses @rookinthecrownest

Word being: NOTE

[simstorian-blog]

Agave Abode

(CC List + Links)

World Map: Oasis Springs

Area: Bedford Strait

Lot Size:  20 x 15

(1-bedroom, 1 Bathroom)

Gallery ID: Simstorian-ish

Packs Used

Cats & Dogs

Eco Lifestyle

Get Famous

Growing Together

Horse Ranch

Island Living

Jungle Adventures

Laundry Day

Strangerville

Build Mode

Felixandre – Chateau Pt. 2 (Marble Floor)

Felixandre – London (Paneling)

Harrie – Kwatei Pt. 1

LittleDica – Eco Kitchen (Upcycled Tile)

Buy Mode

Anye – Neomy Pillow

BlueTeas – Sheer Curtains

CharlyPancakes – Miscellanea (Book Collection)

CharlyPancakes – Telly TV (Modern Frame)

ClutterCat – Dandy Diary Bathroom (Small Mirror)

Felixandre – Florence Pt. 3 (Blob Mirror)

Harlix – Harluxe (AC control, Bed Base, Side table Left + Right)

Harlix – Kichen (Glasses)

Harlix – Livin’ Rum (All Glasses, Book Stand, Tiny Objects Tray, Tray)

Harlix – Orjanic Pt. 2 (Bench w. Blankets, Curtains + Rod)

Harrie – Shop The Look 1 (Armchair)

KiwiSims4 – Blockhouse Dining (Mirror)

KiwiSims4 – Blockhouse Kitchen (Oranges)

KiwiSims4 – Tui Dining (Round Table)

Ledger Atelier – Mohan Living Pt. 2 (Leyden Fireplace)

Littledica – Sleek Slumber (Bed Backing Desk)

Madlen – Niels (Bottles 2)

Myshunosun – Daria Bedroom (Double Mattress)

Pierisim – David’s Apartment Pt. 1 | 2 | 3

Pierisim – Domaine Du Clos Pt. 4 (Board w Tomatoes)

Pierisim – MCM Pt. 1 (SimStudio Display)

Pierisim – MCM Pt. 2 (Concrete Vase, Plant)

Pierisim – MCM Pt. 3

Pierisim – MCM Pt. 4 (All Pasta Jars)

Pierisim – MCM Pt. 5

Pierisim – Tilable (Accent Shelves)

Pierisim – Winter Garden (Old Rug)

Pierisim – Woodland Pt. 1 (Rug)

Sooky88 – Leaning Framed Posters 4 Frames

Sundays – Kediri Pt. 1 (Throw Pillow Solids)

Sundays – Kuta Pt. 3 (Armchair)

Sundays – Mochi Pt. 2 (Wall Sconce)

Sundays – Nisaki Pt. 3 (Throw Pillow)

Sundays – Sumba Pt. 1 (Duvet, Pillow Set I & II, Throw Blanket)

Syboubou – Advent 2022 (Ceiling Lamp)

Townie Project – Moderno (Throw Pillow)

Tuds – Casa Caipira (Duct Stove, Wood Burning Stove)

Tuds – Cave (Panel Lights)

Tuds – Ind 02 (Wine Rack)

Tuds – Turn Living (Couch)

DO NOT REUPLOAD MY LOTS.

DO NOT CLAIM THEM AS YOUR OWN.

DO NOT PLACE BEHIND A PAYWALL.

Tray Files: Download

[rollinouttahere-writes]

I like to think in the insect AU everyone travels the seas in hive like ships what do you think?

The idea of the ships looking like hives is amazing, I love that. I feel like it would outwardly look like a hive, but internally it would be highly varied to accommodate all of the species on board.

Species list here

Luffy's room would be filled with dirt, sand, and gravel that he could burrow into and build a nest with.

Zoro's room is dark and damp with a large hollowed out log for him to sleep in. Not that he sleeps there much, the hive is confusing and he gets lost a lot :(

Nami's room is a desert habitat with an opening in the ceiling to let the sun in. She has a little garden that she gets nectar from.

Usopp's "room" mimics a forest and is on the outside of the ship. There are several trees where he can hang out and not be seen.

Sanji's room has a mesh ceiling for him to hang from during the molting process. The room is lively with lots of plants and is also quite warm and a little humid.

Chopper feels very at home being in a hive. His room double as the infirmary. The walls are made up of honey comb that he uses for storage.

Robin's room is probably the simplest. It's a regular room that is kept dark but is covered in cobwebs. There are some slits in the wall for air flow.

Franky's room mimics a rain forest with tons of plant life. It is very hot and humid in there.

Brook's room resembles a flat prairie with tall grass. There is a deep layer of dirt for him to burrow into. The room is large and doubles as something of an auditorium for him to play his music in.

Jinbei is in the bottom of the ship with a partially submerged room that has sea water flowing in and out of it all day. There are a lot of rocks and coral for him to hide out in when he wants to.

[simslegacy5083]

NSB (Straud Legacy) Gen 9 Ep 71: Fear and Fire

The Story of a Family

Luigi had rarely been happier to get home than he was as he returned from the gym. He limped up the steps on his sore ankle, looking forward to dropping into bed with an ice pack, a nice mixed drink, and that sci-fi novel Noemi couldn’t stop raving about.

Seeing Noemi had been the only bright spot in this absolutely cursed day, and the universe had even had to go and try to ruin that! He couldn’t wait for today to be over – surely tomorrow would be better, it had to be!

Entering the downstairs foyer the first thing he heard was Chubbs, meowing plaintively. Had he forgotten to feed her? Glancing up the steps Luigi did a double take. Smoke was pouring out from under the door of his bedroom, his cat standing nearby doing her best to alert someone to the problem.

Ignoring the pain Luigi bolted up the stairs, nearly falling headfirst into his room when his ankle buckled underneath him. Catching himself on the doorframe, he continued inside to find the table on which rested Papa Jack’s urn, and the candle from Beau he’d forgotten to extinguish, ablaze.

Luigi’s heart jumped into his throat as she saw the flames engulfing Papa Jack’s remains. Without thinking he started to reach forward to grab the urn out of harm’s way but was stopped short by the intense heat radiating from the fire.

Instead, he ran back out to grab the fire extinguisher hanging in the hallway, planting his feet and venting his fear and frustration in a primal scream as he sprayed the foam in a wide arc across the blaze.

Once the fire was extinguished Luigi was left with the charred remains of ruined furniture and his papa's urn, standing like a sentinel in the middle of it all. It looked OK, but he had no way of knowing if Papa Jack's connection to the physical world had remained intact. 

Luigi started to cry then, giant choking sobs that racked his entire body. He gasped out a plea to his papa, to the watcher, to anyone who could hear him to please let it be OK, to give him a sign. He didn't know how he'd live with himself if he’d destroyed his papa’s only link to the mortal realm.

Suddenly he felt a pair of strong arms wrapped around him, heard Papa Jack whisper in his ear that he was here, everything was OK.

For a long while all he could do to return the hug as if his life depended on it, his Papa rubbing his back like he used to do when Luigi was a child. Big fat tears cascaded down his cheeks as he told Papa Jack that he was so sorry, so stupid, and promised never to let anything like that happen again.

When his tears were finally spent Jack invited him to sit down and tell him everything. Luigi offloaded his tale of woe and apologized again, thanking him for coming. Papa replied that honestly, he hadn’t gotten a choice! He’d intended to visit as soon as he could when he heard Luigi’s sobs, but he’d found himself physically pulled across the barrier separating the worlds, unceremoniously deposited in the hallway of the boarding house.

After that Jack went downstairs himself to get his son that drink and the ice pack he needed more than ever after his terror fueled run.

Luigi downed his glass of nectar and strapped the pack to his burning ankle but decided not to risk falling asleep on his papa. Instead, using the wall for support, he hopped to the chess table just outside his door, settling in for a relaxing game while they chatted.

“I’ve been very proud of your recent accomplishments” Jack began. “Tell me the latest on your lovely ladies so I don’t offer you bad advice when this fine juice loosens my tongue later.” Luigi smiled, always happy to discuss his favorite sims.

Luigi told Papa Jack all about his latest dates with Amaya and Noemi, not sure how much had come across in his nightly updates to the urn. 

Jack was quiet at first, lost in thought. Finally, he told his boy “I’d say you’re incredibly lucky and unlucky. Both your girls sound great, but you’re not going to be able to keep the two of them fully satisfied indefinitely. Sooner or later, you’ll need to make a choice”. 

Amaya was clearly a lot of fun, but it seemed to Jack that she and Luigi didn't "click" as well as he and Noemi. However, his responsibilities as a legacy heir meant he had to have a child. Was he prepared to do that on his own if he wanted to stay with Noemi and she refused to come out of "hiding"?

Jack went on “You have time son, but your next birthday is closer than you might realize. I suggest you put some thought towards your future.”

Luigi frowned slightly as he processed his papa's advice. Being in college it sometimes felt like he was suspended in a bubble, not as "grown-up" as his cousins with their full-time jobs and "adult" responsibilities, but that wasn't true. Time marched on, and his university days would soon be over. 

He thanked his papa and pondered his next move on the board. Gazing contentedly at the ghost sitting across from him, he reflected that maybe it hadn't been that terrible of a day after all.

View The Full Story of My Not So Berry Challenge Here