#Drabble Advent Calendar

[thrilmalia]

Drabble advent calendar: Door 7

Harry unwrapped the wool jumper in a wonderful forest green with Celtic patterns, similar to the one he was always stealing from Merlin's side of the wardrobe the most often.

"Now you can stop stealing mine and both of us can be warm," Merlin said, like a fool. Harry smiled and kissed him.

"Thank you, darling."

-

The next morning, Harry came down for breakfast in Merlin's old jumper with the mended hole under the arm.

Merlin had known to gift Harry a jumper that he himself would like to wear. Harry clearly wouldn't touch it until it took Merlin's scent.

@ess-jay-oh @agentdagonet @killer-kelp

[from-izzy]

skating with you | nct lee donghyuck | haechan

Haechan leans his forehead to yours as your icy noses brush against each other, “Eyes on me, bubs,” he whispers.

pairing » nct lee donghyuck (haechan) x gn!reader (lmk if i missed anything!)

trope/au » established relationship au!, holiday theme!

genre » fluffy fluff fluff!, cheeky and slightly flirty haechan, and slightly flustered reader...?, cutie boyfriend haechan, no. 1 supportive and caring haechan, reader doesn't really know how to skate and haechan helps you through it, it's all so very lovely (and i need someone to help me skate-)

word count; estimated reading time » 850; ~4 mins

warnings (lmk if i missed anything!) » none!

navi/masterlist!! 🤍 nct dream masterlist

is this my last upload of the year...? we shall see!!

“If I fall flat on my face, this will be your fault,” your threat only seems harmless to your boyfriend.

Haechan skates further away from you, lightly showing off his skills of skating backward gracefully, even adding light twirl patterns on the ice. Meanwhile, you’re left at the rink's perimeter, hands gripping for support and eyes squinting playfully at your delightful boyfriend. You have no idea why you thought it was a good idea to go skating when you have minimal experience and are the clumsiest person you know. But Haechan had to jut his lower lip, eyebrows shaped into mountains to your poor heart. How could you say no to that face? 

But, your weakness in saying no to your boyfriend has led you here. In the public ice skating arena. Back leaning onto the wall for dear life. 

It’s been thirty minutes yet you haven’t made much progress from the entrance of the rink. Maybe it’s your fear of falling or the fear of competent younger children snickering at you falling to your knees. Haechan has made a few rounds around, even entertaining others with little tricks. Watching him from afar made your heart warm as others realised how lovable your boyfriend is. Children reach for a high five, adults smiling at the small talk or encouragement he would send as he passes by. 

“Wanna hold my hand now?” Haechan skates beside you. 

You've rejected the last few offers, determined to do at least half of the oval rink by yourself; you and the wall beside you. But balancing yourself on a somewhat thin metal as your knees shake with tensed muscles is taking more energy than you expected. 

You give in, slumping your back on the wall, elbows propped up as you lean. “I just need to rest first.”

Haechan chuckles at you, making a final push on the ice to skate to you. His arms cage you between his frame, closing significant space between you both. Your eyes widen at his bold action, cheeks and neck heating at the fond eyes he’s placing upon your orbs. His eyelashes flutter prettily upon your features, a soft smile forming its way into your boyfriend’s place. The rowdy noises of the kids, metal swishing and passing behind Haechan all blur when Haechan steadies your once-leaning figure to stand with his hands securely encasing your waist. 

It’s too bad that the cold temperature has you bundled up in a few layers or else you could feel the relaxing motion of his thumb caressing your side.

Haechan leans his forehead to yours as your icy noses brush against each other, “Eyes on me, bubs,” he whispers.

As per his words, you lock your eyes with him, only closing them once or twice when you’re fully supported by him. Your forearm instinctively rests on top of his, occasionally pushing them down due to your nervousness, still afraid of slipping and toppling over Haechan, potentially hurting both of you in the process.

“Don’t worry,” he eases your mind, pressing a quick kiss on your colder lips. “You’re going to be alright,” pressing his lips to yours again, leaving them there for a bit longer. “I’m not going to let you fall,” perfectly stealing your lips once more after you hum an acknowledgement to his words. “If you fall, it’s only going to be in my arms.”

You should’ve known he would sneak in a cheesy line or two, and your laughter makes you forget your anxiousness about being on the ice. Slowly, Haechan skates backwards again, this time with you in his hold. Admittedly, this has been his plan from the very start: to have you close like this as you conquer your fear and challenge; you’re not going to complain about this either.

Haechan is a great skating teacher, pulling and guiding you out of your comfort ice. Both of you dance in the rink for an hour together. It starts with you facing him as he distracts you from paying too much attention to what your body is doing, instead prompting you to naturally let you relax into the situation. Then slowly, he takes his place next to you, his palm holding your forearm. Then, linking hands together for the final stage before he lets you go after you find the confidence to brave the environment once more. 

You almost lost your balance for a while, hunching your back to hold your knee. “You can do it!” Your boyfriend hollers encouragement behind you. Soon those words become more familiar, your proud boyfriend behind you stealing everyone’s attention at your successful solo skating. 

You did a full lap with no support from him or the wall. You leap into Haechan’s arm at the end line, Haechan littering kisses all over your face. The golden hour highlights his face, his smiling beaming further from the rays of the sun.

“Maybe I shouldn’t have been such a good teacher. And you shouldn’t be so talented either!” Your eyebrows raise at his words, unsure of where he’s going, “Now, you won’t need my help anymore…”

navi/masterlist!! 🤍 nct dream masterlist

tags: @k-films @kflixnet @starlit-network @kstrucknet @ncity-net

@haneul-and-clouds

[darkficsyouneveraskedfor]

Good Tidings Your Way Come

Warnings: non/dubcon, allusions to stalking, and other dark elements. Not all kinks or triggers are tagged. My username actually says you never asked for any of this.

My warnings are not exhaustive but be aware this is a dark fic and may include potentially triggering topics. Please use your common sense when consuming content. I am not responsible for your decisions.

Summary: An old face shows up without welcome.

Character: Johnny Storm

Day Three of the December Daze Challenge.

Prompt - new SO at the family dinner

Note: As usual, I would appreciate any and all feedback. I’m happy to once more go on this adventure with all of you! Thank you in advance for your comments and for reblogging.

You take out the pies you baked the night before and put them on the shelf, juggling around the contents of the fridge to accommodate prepped dishes. Your meticulously planned schedule is outlined on the magnetic whiteboard. The turkey is in and all else has to be timed precisely.  

As you get out the stuffed olives to put pit on the wooden board with all the cheeses and crackers, the doorbell rings. You set the jar down and wipe your hands on your apron. You huff as you hurry out of the kitchen. 

"Why are you knocking?" You call to the door, "go ahead and come on in. You know the rules. Just kick the snow off--" 

You grab the handle, even as you beckon to the expected visitor. One of a few. Maybe their hands are full. Naima is always far too ambitious. You're not quite sure where your youngest got that from. 

You blink at the figure on the other side. It isn't who you expect. Not any of your daughters. It's not anyone you would expect to see on the holiday you've been coveting all month, along with the time off. 

Johnny smiles as he hugs a cardboard box, tufts of tissue paper and bows peeking out over the top. Your face and your heart fall. How did he find you? 

"Hey, cookie, happy holidays," he winks. "Mmm," he sniffs emphatically, "smells good. You still put cranberries in your stuffing." 

You cheeks twitch. You clutch the edge of your apron and gulp, "Johnny, what are you doing here?" 

"Ah, go on, ask me how I found you? You know I hate niceties," he shoves the box towards you, "those are for the girls." 

"Girls?" You utter. 

"Naima, Marcie  and... what was it...Evelina." He recites as he jiggles the box in his arms.  

"How--" 

"Brrr, it's chilly," he steps close until the box presses to you. "Sure is coming down." 

You stare at him, stunned. You bring your arms up to take the box as he sidles in past you. That little voice that follows you from consciousness to nightmare nags in your ear. Stop him! What are you doing? 

"Just gotta warm up," he looks around the entry way as he rubs his hands together, his fingers lighting with licking flames as the air ripples with the heat. That's what you're doing. Being smart. "Too bad about the old place. Heard the landlord was pissed." 

You stare at his hands and the flames that threaten his leather jacket. He's entirely unbothered as his flesh is unaffected by the fire. He parts his hands and snaps his fingers. The flames die. 

"You know pecan's my fave. You make it this year?" 

You can't speak. One mistake. One stupid act of charity and now you're cursed. One year isn't long enough yet you don't think he'll wait so long the next tome. 

"Apple, pumpkin, and pecan," your voice creaks. 

"Mmm, delicious," he unzips his jacket slowly. "Dessert to go with..." he eyes you up and down, "dessert." 

"Please, why are you here?" 

"It's the holidays. It's a time to spend with those who matter--" 

"Johnny," you plead. 

"Don't." He snaps, "you always pulled that pathetic act, didn't you? And I spent all that time trying to comfort you only for you to ditch me--" 

"You... it was a misunderstanding. I only ever wanted a friend," you sniff. 

"I didn't. I just wanted you but I guess you thought you were too fucking good," he sneers. "Funny, seeing as the ex dumped you for that young EA of his." 

"Stop--" you say. 

"Huh, you're right. We don't need to stay hung up on old wounds. It's a time for cheer. To be together." He bends to unlace his boots. "Can't wait to meet the family." 

You watch him move his boots onto the mat. He stands straight and takes the box back. You shiver as his blue eyes stick to you. 

"How about you come back tomorrow--" 

"So you can run again? You're not getting away. Not doing this to me again." 

"I didnt--" you choke as his eyes blaze a vibrant orange. 

"This is an old house. Nice. Bet the baseboards are real oak. I mean foundation's probably concrete but not much without walls." He smirks as he meets your eye, "so, should we put these under the tree?" 

"Um, sure," you agree. 

His threats are subtle but not missed. Your daughters, your home, you. It could all be destroyed by the snap of his fingers. Literally. 

"Probably a bit awkward at first," he says as he enters the living room without invitation.  

You close the front door before you follow. You hover at the door anxiously. He bends to put down the box and unpacks each present before delicately placing them under the decorated tree. 

"I mean, the age difference might be a bit shocking," he stands up with the empty box and it flashes into cinder, falling to the floor in a pile of ash. "Should probably sweep that up, honey." 

You give him a long look. He doesn’t flinch. You leave him to get the broom and dustpan. You return as he nonchalantly paces the room. He admires the decor, toying with the ornaments on the mantel and running his finger along the hanging tinsel. A wisp of smoke wisps after the motion but no sparks fly. 

You gather up the mess on the floor and dump it in the bin. You shut away the broom and pan. Back in the living room, he admires the hung portraits of your daughters. He’s very deliberate in his examination. 

“It’s okay, you know? We’ll work through it as a family. I can only imagine it might be a little weird. To think of how you seduce me. A much younger man than you--” 

“Johnny, I get it. You don’t have to—If you just go, we can talk about this later--” 

“Talk,” he says sharply. “We did a lot of that. Talk, talk, talk,” he puppets his hand with the syllables and faces you. “Then you ran.” 

“I appreciate everything you did for me, but I wasn’t ready--” 

“It’s been over a year so are you ready now?” He snickers as he comes closer, “I mean, that’s rhetorical so...” 

Your lip quivers as he stops right in front of you. His gaze bores into you then slowly descends. He brings his hand up to run his thumb across your lower lip as he bites his own. You wince and he angles his hand to grab your chin gruffly. 

“I’ve waited longer than that. I’ve been patient.” He takes a breath and tilts his head dangerously. “I’ve known where you are. I sat and I watched. Baby, I gave you all the time you need to get past that deadbeat husband.” 

Your lashes web with unspent tears as you pout. You can feel the heat in his hand, ready to singe at his smallest whim. He pulls you toward him and you tense. His breath sizzles around you. 

He raises his other hand and the air whisks as flames jump to life around his digits. You watch them encase his flesh and the thick golden signet around his middle finger. His eyes follow yours to the spectacle of his fiery touch. He looms it closer to you and chokes a whimper for you. The air roils across your face. 

He closes his fist and the flames go out. He’s toying with you. You search his face for any hint of mercy. For any strand of the man you once believed he was. His blue eyes are icy even if his touch is searing. 

He walks you back and you yelp as he lowers his hand to grab your hip. He spins you and you catch yourself on the armchair just in front of you. He jerks you as he tugs on your jeans, the button tugging before popping out to dangle on the thread. He bares your ass as you brace the frame of the chair. 

You cry out as hot metal burns into your flesh. He presses his knuckles against your soft flesh as the ring brands a welt into your flesh. He keeps it there until your whining and writhing, his other hand still hooked around your neck. 

He pulls you back until your spine arches. He steps closer and crushes his hand between your ass and his crotch. He huffs and snarls. 

“This time, you won’t forget who you belong to,” he twists his hand so the metal burns deeper into your skin. “Now stop fucking crying. It’s a special day, we don’t need you ruining it.”

There's voices from outside. You know them well. You flick your lashes as Johnny lets you go and swipe away your tears. You can't ruin today, not for your girls.

"That's a good girl. They wouldn't wanna see mommy crying," he heads for the door. "Especially for no reason. No one likes a drama queen."

You suck back the last of your horror. It's just what needs to be done. Not just to keep yourself safe, but to keep them safe. You were wrong when you thought running would do that. 

[miumura]

( 🤍 ) BLURRY HEARTS — NISHIMURA RIKI FIC

[ DAY NINE ] of the advent calendar !

( 🤍 ) SYNOPSIS . who knew taking a bus ride back home on a cold day could be romantic?

( ｡♡˚ ) PAIRING . classmate!ni-ki x gn!reader

( 🤍 ) GENRE . fluff, classmates 2 lovers

( ｡♡˚ ) WARNINGS . none ? ~~ WORD COUNT 0.8k+ ( 833 )

( 🤍 ) NOTE . HAPPY NIKI DAYYY 🤍🤍 the back 2 back bdays in dec okayyy 😍 LMAO ANYWAYS i love riks sm u dont understand . but yes yk i had to think of a cute kinda cliche fic idea for this !!! hope u enjoyyyy 🤍🤍

"I have to go," Niki declared, catching Sunoo off guard as he put on his hat. Sunoo looked at him with confusion, and his confusion only deepened when Niki suddenly started running away. "Hey! I thought we were gonna—" Sunoo stopped mid-sentence, realizing Niki wouldn't hear him from where he was. Shaking his head, Sunoo continued on his own way home while Niki had places to be.

Rushing to the bus stop, Niki spotted you with reddened hands—apparently, you'd forgotten your gloves. The bus hadn't left yet, providing him with an opportunity to steal a few moments with you. Sneakily standing next to you, he nudged you a little, prompting you to look in his direction. With his head turned away, Niki pulled out a hot pack from his pocket, offering it to you.

"Thank you," you smiled, taking the hot pack from him. He simply nodded, and both of you turned a shade of red, and it wasn't just because of the chilly weather.

A slight awkwardness lingered between you both, but it dissipated as the bus finally arrived. Leading the way, you approached the bus entrance, with Niki following right behind you.

Finding seats on the bus, you and Niki ended up in the same row, side by side. The awkwardness from earlier lingered, but there was an undeniable cuteness to it.

As you settled into your seat, Niki hesitated for a moment before mustering up the courage to speak. "Uh, YN, do you mind if I sit next to you?"

“Oh I don’t mind—here,” quickly removing your bag off the empty seat, a small smile played on your face as you nodded.

He grinned in return, his enthusiasm evident. "Thanks,” Then, with a touch of shyness, he added, "But, uh, can I sit in the window seat?"

Chuckling at the request, you gestured toward the window. "Of course, have it." Rising from his seat, Niki offered a quiet expression of gratitude and slid into the seat, smiling at you as he tapped the empty chair beside him. Responding to the unspoken invitation, you swiftly took your place, feeling a gentle touch between your legs due to the limited space on the seats.

Despite the subtle physical contact, you couldn't help but smile, a hint of red tinting your cheeks at the unexpected closeness.

At one point, you noticed a familiar tune playing softly on Niki’s phone. It happened to be a song you both liked, and without a word, Niki pulled out his earphones and handed you one side, sharing the music.

You glanced at him with a playful smile, placing it into the left side of your ear. "Oh, you like this song too?"

Niki chuckled. "Yeah, it's a good one. Thought we could listen to it together as we wait for our stop.”

“That sounds nice,” and you two continued to listen along. With such similar music tastes, you two just had to exchange phone numbers so that you can send song recommendations anytime. You two were getting closer than you thought.

But as the bus neared Niki's stop, he reluctantly pulled the earphone out, giving you a warm smile. "I have to get off here. It was really nice sharing this with you."

"Goodbye—oh, hold on." As Niki rose to leave, the realization dawned on you that you still had his hot pack. Getting up from your seat quickly, you retrieved it from your pocket, you offered, "Here—"

"No, you can keep it," Niki declined, gently placing your hand, hot pack and all, back into your pocket. "I've got an extra—that one was just for you," he smiled, knowingly bending the truth, knowing that was his only hot pack. But, perhaps, he hopes you'd think of him later because of this gesture.

You returned the smile. "Thank you. Will I see you tomorrow?"

"You bet."

With a friendly goodbye, Niki exited the bus, leaving you in the now vacated window seat. Seizing the opportunity, you moved to the window seat, looking out at the passing scenery. The atmosphere inside the bus felt a bit different without him, but you welcomed the solitude.

As the bus moved along, you noticed a slight fog forming on the window. Absentmindedly, you drew a smiley face on the glass, only to realize there was already a message etched there. Through the mist, you saw something: “me + you = date?”

Right next to the message, there were blurry hearts, already slightly erased due to the fog. Since when did he have the time to write such a sweet confession in the most unique way possible? Were you that focused into the conversation with him that you didn’t bother looking around your surroundings?

Either way, your heart skipped a beat as you read the unexpected message. Blushing, you couldn't help but smile, feeling a warmth that lingered even after the fog on the window had cleared.

With a smile, you took out your phone, contemplating what to text Niki. It wasn't going to be just another song recommendation; you had something else in mind.

ENHA PERM TAGLIST (1) — @flwoie @ixomiyu @haruavrse @shinsou-rii @bearseulgs @ilovewonyo @yenqa @dimplewonie @bubblytaetae @wtfhyuck @ineedaherosavemeenow @ml8dy @starikizs @wonioml @chirokookie @xiaoderrrr @neozon3nha @en-chantedtomeetyou @millksea @enhaz1 @eundiarys @hyeosi @ja4hyvn @judeduartewannabe @j-wyoung @thia-aep @vampcharxter @softpia @officiallyjaehyuns @itsactuallylina @hsheart @sweetjaemss @ahnneyong @hanienie @jwnghyuns @kpoplover718 @jiawji @rikizm @haknom @yeokii @wvnkoi @whoschr @teddywonss @shinunoga-iie-wa @isoobie @skzenhalove @misokei @s00buwu @ox1-lovesick @miercerise @litttlestars @enhapocketz

[bucky-barnes-diaries]

Advent Calendar 2023

• Welcome to my Advent Calendar 2023 Masterlist! For this holiday season, I will post a mix of smutty and fluffy Christmas themed fics.

• All of these stories are with Bucky Barnes.

• Some of these stories are intended for an 18+ audience. Please read the individual warnings for each fic! If you are a minor, do not interact with the stories intended for an adult audience!

Day 1 — First Snow

Day 2 — Playing In The Snow

Day 3 — Christmas Tree Farm

Day 4 — Christmas Decorations

Day 5 — Cozy Morning

Day 6 — Christmas Goodies

Day 7 — Christmas Drinks

Day 8 — By The Fireplace

Day 9 — Christmas Ambiance

Day 10 — Under The Mistletoe

Day 11 — Cozy Night

Day 12 — Coffee Shop

Day 13 — Christmas Market

Day 14 — Santa

Day 15 — Mrs. Claus

Day 16 — Christmas Movies (delayed)

Day 17 — Christmas Shopping

Day 18 — Sledding

Day 19 — Ice Skating

Day 20 — Christmas Admiration

Day 21 — Christmas Joy

Day 22 — Ugly Sweater Party

Day 23 — Giving & Receiving

Day 24 — Christmas

I don’t do taglists so please follow @bucky-barnes-diaries-library and turn on notifications to never miss out on my writing!

[riverwriter]

“What do you think?” Draco asked his favourite redhead holding out the ring for her inspection.

“She’s going to die.”

He would have laughed at the expression of glee on Ginny’s face had he not been so nervous. “Is that a good thing or a bad thing?”

“Good, so good. Draco, how the hell did you manage this? This looks exactly like… I don’t even know how to describe it… it just screams ‘Hermione.’”

“Well isn’t that a good sign? Since I want her to spend the rest of her life with me and all?”

Ginny reached out and punched his shoulder. He winced- she was a professional athlete, after all- and took the opportunity to snap the ring box shut.

“If you did that well with the ring, what could you possibly need me for?”

“I can’t decide when to do it. I want to do it around Christmas time, she just loves the season so much. But not actually on Christmas Day, she deserves a special effort, not just me taking leaching onto the holiday.”

Ginny bit her lip and nodded. “That’s thoughtful, I agree. After then? But before the New Year. Before Christmas is so hectic, they’ll be parties to attend, wrapping things up at work, she’ll probably be happy but stressed. And then after is usually kind of a let down, you can give her something new to celebrate.”

“That’s perfect,” Draco let out a sigh of relief, “thank you, you’re a good friend to her.”

She let out a squeal and launched herself at him. She hugged him tight around the neck. “I told her you were the one, you know, back when you first started dating, when it looked liked there might be too much between you, too much history. But I knew from the way you looked at her, even then.”

“You’re a good friend to me too.”

Day 16: Ginny Weasley

[indie-summer]

Hello, Cycling RPF community! Welcome to the 2024 Drabble Advent Calendar!

In this event, we want to try to fill as many days leading up to Christmas with drabbles (= exactly 100 words) and double drabbles (= exactly 200 words) of any genre, any pairing(s) and any ratings.

Just like an advent calendar, it goes from December 1st to December 24th. Just pick a day (claim it as a prompt on AO3) — ideally, one that hasn't been picked yet — and post your work to the collection on your exact chosen day! Any theme is allowed for the Advent Calendar, although holiday/festive themes are highly encouraged to honour the season!

Your friendly collection moderators are @ridingupsaturn, @indie-summer and @goingslightlymads. You can find other ways to contact us in the FAQs.

Collection on AO3 here: (x)

[k-films]

‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎ADVENT CALENDAR 2O24 !

➤ 'TILL CHRISTMAS ! ✧.* k-films now presents the 2024 advent calendar prepared by the admins and staff from k-films. we hope you have a merry christmas and enjoy your time writing for this event ! ‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ‎‎ ‎ ❨ 🎞️ ❩ to join, fill in this form and then you can go ahead and write the corresponding prompts !

RULES ✧.* please read them before you fill in the form !

O1. please make sure all of them are sfw !

O2. each drabble must be under 1000 words if you are writing !

O3. only artists under kfilms are allowed to participate !

O4. both smau one shots and drabbles only for this event

O5. please make sure you post them on the corresponding dates according to the advent calendar ! example — posting the 3rd day prompt given on the 3rd day of the advent calendar !

O6. and most of all make sure to enjoy this time !

➤ PROMPTS AVAIABLE ! ✧.*

DAY 1 (dec 10th) : unboxing day goes wrong DAY 2 (dec 13th) : making snow angels on christmas DAY 3 (dec 17th): reunion on christmas (childhood friends to lovers au) DAY 4 (dec 20th) : ice skating during christmas DAY 5 (dec 24th) : closed proximity in a cabin when it's snowing DAY 6 (dec 27th) : confessing on christmas eve DAY 7 (dec 31st) : kissing under the mistletoe

make sure to use the hashtag #✩⋆⁺₊ k-films — advent calendar and tag us when you publish your work ! the complete masterlist will be posted on January 2nd 2025 !

NOTICE ✧.* the form will be closed on monday ! (9th of december) make sure to fill in the form before then ! if you have any questions feel free to ask any of the staff or admins ! have a merry christmas !

[foxesscramble]

Advent Calendar: Day Two

Winter Dates - Fighting Back to Back - Spies AU || "You have a choice."

Andrew Minyard x Neil Josten

@allforthegamebingo

Neil was restless. Nothing was wrong. In fact, everything was going pretty well. He and Andrew had the Columbia house to themselves for the week. Kevin was spending Christmas with Jean and Jeremy in California. Matt and Dan were visiting Matt’s mom, and Renee was out visiting her mom as well. Aaron had decided to spend the holidays with Katelyn and her family. Allison took the opportunity to go spend Christmas in New York and ‘get her shop on’ as she had said. Nicky had booked a flight out to Germany as soon as he knew the time of his last final.

Everyone was happy. Neil was happy. He had been around Andrew for a week with no interruptions. Andrew had been cooking for him all week and they’d been watching TV and going on walks. Andrew had banned all talk of Exy so that meant Neil couldn’t watch any games, practice, or talk about anything Exy related (which also meant no talk of Kevin).

He wasn’t bored per se. He could never be bored with Andrew, but he was restless. Andrew noticed, because of could he did. 

Neil was sitting on the couch, his leg bouncing as snow fell in flurries on the screen in front of him. They were watching a Hallmark Christmas movie. He hated them but Andrew found some form of amusement in them. Neil didn’t question it.

A pair of keys flew into his periphery and he only barely caught them before they smacked into his forehead. “We’re going out. Are you driving or am I?” Neil found himself on his feet before he fully processed the sentence. “You.”

He was out of the door before Andrew had gotten a chance to grab his coat. Waiting by the car he almost wished he’d grabbed his own jacket. The wind was whipping about and the temperatures had dropped as far as South Carolina allowed. He smiled softly when Andrew walked out of the house with Neil’s jacket slung over his arm and his cigarettes and car keys in his hand.

He grabbed the jacket Andrew offered with a raised eyebrow. “Thank ya.” He said in a poor imitation of Coach. Andrew rolled his eyes and slammed the car door shut after him. Neil let himself smile as he opened the passenger side before climbing in. 

“Where are we going?” He asked as Andrew started the car. Andrew lit a cigarette and rolled the windows down as he pulled out of the driveway. “Anywhere. You’re bothering me with your restlessness. You’re just lucky I chose to take you out this way instead of murder.” Neil let out a huffed laugh. “If you wanted to take me out all you had to do was ask, babe.” He said before winking obnoxiously. 

With a sigh, Andrew shook his head and turned onto the highway. “This is not a date.” Neil nodded and turned his attention towards the window. He stuck his arm out and felt the wind as it pushed its way through his fingers. It was quiet for a few moments before Neil started talking.

“When we were on the run, the winter holidays were the easiest time to hide. Everyone was out shopping for Christmas and it made it so easy to blend in. We spent all day in stores. We never bought anything. We couldn’t afford to waste the money like that, but it was fun to window shop as a kid. There were always so many toys and it was fun to pretend to be someone else for a while.” Andrew was silent but Neil could tell he was listening intently. His face a false mask of nonchalance. 

“There was this one year when Mom was in a weirdly decent mood, she decided it would be okay to go look at Christmas lights. I think now, looking back at it, she was having a breakdown or maybe she was just really drunk. There was this rich neighborhood about ten minutes from where we were staying at the time and they had this themed Christmas light story. Everyone went to see it around the holidays and Mom took us because there were so many people no one would think of us as out of place.” Neil felt the corner of his lips pull up slightly in a bittersweet way. “It was one of the best nights I’ve ever had. Mom didn’t yell or hit or curse at me for anything. The lights were beautiful. I asked to go out again a few nights later and Mom slapped me across the face and locked me in the motel closet before leaving for a day and a half. I never asked to go again.” 

Andrew’s knuckles were white from clutching the steering wheel. “Your Mom was a bitch.” Neil laughed but it felt weird falling out of his mouth. “She could be.” Andrew took a hard right and cut across four lanes to take the exit off the highway. Neil held his breath and gripped the door handle desperately. “Christ, Andrew. Where are you going?” Andrew didn’t look at him when he answered. “We’re going to look at Christmas lights.”

Neil felt his chest constrict tightly and let out an unsteady breath. He turned his head to look at Andrew, but Andrew’s face gave away nothing. It was at times like this that he really wondered how people could see Andrew as a monster. He so obviously cared for people. The foxes would probably argue that he only really cared for Neil but he knew that was untrue. It was obvious in the way he was saving the money he was making to pay off Nicky’s debts. It was obvious in the way he begrudgingly asked Aaron about Katelyn. It was obvious in the way he always made time for Renee. It was obvious in the way he protected Kevin even after their deal broke. It was abundantly obvious to Neil that Andrew cared for all of the foxes but it still sometimes shocked him how deeply Andrew cared for him in particular.

Neil didn’t say anything but he reached over the console and grabbed Andrew’s hand, gently lacing their fingers together. He brought their joint hands to his mouth before letting them rest on the console.

“One of the first Christmas’s Nicky had us, he took us to go look at Christmas lights. There weren’t any nice neighborhoods around us so it was mostly run-down houses with three strands of lights so it wasn’t much to look at. He told us that it was one of the things he missed most while living in Germany. His parents used to take him when he was really young and they would rate the Christmas decorations. He made us do it that year. He was trying so hard but Aaron and I were so angry all of the time. It was probably the first time I had anything remotely close to fun after Aaron’s mom died.” Neil listened closely to Andrew’s story but he didn’t respond. He knew Andrew didn’t really want him to.

A truth for a truth.

It was silent for a while before Neil pointed at a neighborhood they were about to pass. “Let’s look at this one.” Andrew turned in and they were accosted by bright lights. 

“Wait, slow down. That one is certainly a 3/10.” Andrew slowed the car down but his eyes fixated on Neil. Neil held his breath to wait for Andrew’s reaction but after only a moment he looked past Neil and out his window. “A 3/10 is generous. That has to be a 0/10.”

 Half of the lights had gone out and the other half were falling off the side of the house. Neil makes an offended noise from the passenger seat. “At least it has lights.” 

Andrew shook his head. “We’re rating Christmas lights, not the empty houses. That house warrants a 0.” Neil let out a huffed laugh before turning his attention back to the houses. “I guess. Take a left up here.” Andrew released a put out huff but complied. 

The house at the end of the street had gone all out. There were bright, colorful lights strung up on every crevice of the house. Plastic reindeer, penguins, elves, and a random baby Jesus decorated the lawn. On the roof, an inflated Santa was being stuffed down the chimney.

“That has to be a 9/10.” Neil said as he pointed in front of them for Andrew to see. Andrew clucked his tongue and shook his head. “Disagree. That’s maybe a 6.5/10.” He turned his head to Andrew and scrunched his nose. “What? Why?” Andrew used their joint hands to point at the lights hung around their house. “Too many lights and they’re way too colorful.” Neil hums in consideration. “You don’t like colorful lights?” Andrew shook his head and turned to Neil with a small uptick to his mouth. “That’s why all the lights in our room are warm lights. The Christmas tree too.”

“We have a Christmas tree?” Andrew rolled his eyes and turned down another street. “Yes, Neil. We have a Christmas tree. I just pick and choose which years we put it up.” Neil turned his attention back to the houses with a quiet, huh.

They spent two and a half hours looking at Christmas lights and rating them horribly. On the way home they stopped to get hot chocolate and Neil let Andrew talk him into getting one. He really only got it because he knew Andrew would drink it once he had his share. 

They pulled up to the house and Neil squeezed Andrew’s hand briefly before letting it go.

“So, not a date, huh?” Andrew rolled his eyes and slammed the car door shut to block out Neil’s laughter.

[thrilmalia]

Drabble advent calendar: Door 17

"Yes, prime minister!" 

Stopping, Harry grimaced. Not that Eggsy could see it, bent over the desk. 

"Of all characters from Love Actually, must you choose Hugh Grant's character?"

Rolling his eyes, Eggsy huffed. "Fine. Keep going then, handsome writer who falls in love with his housekeeper without ever speaking to her. Or do you prefer the boss cheating on his wife with his younger employee?" 

Point taken, aside from the cheating.

"You never realise how questionable some movies are until someone points it out. I think I prefer being Harry shagging his wonderful partner Eggsy." 

"Get on with it then.”

@ess-jay-oh @agentdagonet @killer-kelp @university-of-american-samoa

[leasstories]

Lea’s advent calendar day 10 – First Christmas as a Family

@writerthreads writing prompt for Christmas (2022), prompt 3:

[first Christmas as a family]

Dad!Eddie x Mom!reader

No trigger warning.

WC: ≈1.2K

December 24th, 1989

Eddie and you have been dating since 1985, Eddie’s second senior year and your junior year. You and Eddie have lived the perfect idyll for 4 years now. At first, when you went to California for your studies, Eddie didn’t follow you as he was offered a job at Hawkins’ garage, and he knew that with his resume and past he would never get a job in California. But after 6 months of only seeing you once a month, Eddie couldn’t handle missing you anymore. Yes, you used to call for hours every single day, yes you sent letters to each other. And of course, you came back to Hawkins one weekend a month only to see Eddie, but the distance was too much, and Eddie left everything to join you. When he arrived, you moved out from your dorm and the two of you started renting a one-bedroom apartment.

During your third year of studies, in February 1989, you found out that you were pregnant. Right after you found out, Eddie proposed and promised to never be like his old man. He promised to always be by your side and in your child’s life. Two month before your baby’s birth, Eddie and you rented a two bedroom apartment to have more space as well as a room dedicated to your baby. You gave birth to a beautiful daughter you named Lizzie, after Eddie’s late mom. Your girl was born on November 15th, 1989, and so this will be her first Christmas. She already has her father’s eyes and your “cute” little nose as Eddie likes to call it. Lizzie is definitely a Daddy’s girl.

For your first Christmas as a family, you wanted everything to be perfect, and even if she’s only a month old, you didn’t want to your daughter to be affected by your financial struggles. Eddie currently works at the auto shop in the corner of your street, but as you’re still studying you have no income. Nonetheless, you wanted to split the Christmas bill in two, no matter how much Eddie insisted that he could cover most of it. So, you used all of your spare money to decorate the house and buy your daughter and your fiancé the best gifts ever. You want everything to be perfect for your little bean as you like to call your daughter.

You’re currently cooking Christmas Eve’s dinner while Eddie went to the airport to pick up Wayne.

While the turkey is in the oven, you’re making the cranberry sauce. You’re usually not much of a cook, but as Eddie is even worse than you, you both decided that you would be the one giving it a try, and it didn’t turn out so bad, so far. Once the cranberry sauce was made you started cooking some mashed potatoes and the green beans.

Eddie and Wayne arrived just as the turkey was finished cooking. You put it all on the kitchen counter, pick up your daughter in her crib and go into the hallways to great Wayne.

Eddie comes in first, followed by his uncle. It is the first time ever that “Grandpa Wayne” will meet Lizzie, Eddie already sent pictures and a VHS with videos of her, but Wayne never met her in real life.

“Hi Wayne!” You say while cradling your daughter.

“Wanna hold her Grandpa?” Eddie says with a smile, after kissing his daughter’s forehead. You can see that Wayne has teary eyes when he nods. You delicately hand her to her Grandpa, and Wayne really gently take her into his arms, he starts rocking back and forth all the while examining her small face and features, he smiles at her while addressing to Eddie.

“She looks like you when you were a baby. Has her mom’s nose though” Wayne says fondly.

You all head to the living room, the three of you sit around the table and Eddie is the one holding your daughter while you go to the kitchen to bring the starters. You put the smoked salmon toast on the table and all start to eat. Wayne tells you a lot of anecdotes about Eddie when he was a baby. Eddie gives you Lizzie to hold while he brings the turkey, mashed potatoes, and green beans on the table. You all eat in a cozy atmosphere. Eddie and you share small anecdotes that happened during the pregnancy and Lizzie’s first month. You’re really embarrassed when Eddie tells Wayne how you thought you had peed yourself when your water broke. Thank god Wayne answered. “Son, how do you want her to know what it is when she’s never experienced it?”. Eddie did shut up after that. When Lizzie starts getting a bit fussy, you excuse yourself and go to your bedroom to breastfeed her.

Meanwhile, Eddie excuses himself, take the gifts from your bedroom and put them under the tree.

When he comes back Wayne pats Eddie’s back. “’m proud of you son. You’ve got a lovely fiancé and the cutest daughter on earth. Just don’t mess it all up.” Wayne is stern at the end. Deep down, he knows Eddie isn’t like his old man, but he does feel the need to remind Eddie that he is lucky to have this family.

“I won’t Wayne, I swear on my life. I love them, so much.” Eddie answers. “Can I ask you a question though?”

“Go ahead son.” Wayne answers.

“How did you find out how to raise me?” Eddie asks.

“Son, you and yn are gonna make mistakes, for sure. What’s Important is how hard we try. I probably wasn’t the perfect paternal figure, but I tried my best and look at you now. ‘m really proud of you Eds.” Wayne tells him.

When you come back, Lizzie nuzzled up against you, Eddie says.

“Okay! Presents time!”. He takes the biggest gift and hand it to you. This is from me to our daughter. Eddie tells you.

“Eds… we said we’d share the cost for all of her gifts…” you protest.

“Baby, I really wanted this for her, and it’s a bit for you as well.” Eddie answers.

You give him your daughter and open the gift to see a beautiful baby swing chair.

“Eddie… This is too much...” you say, eyes wet with tears.

“The best one for my amazing daughter.” Eddie says, putting her in the baby swing chair.

Eddie and you give Wayne his gift, a new denim jacket and Wayne gifted the two of you concert tickets to go see Dio in San Jose in October 1990.

You both look at Wayne, shocked by the gift. “This is too much…” you say.

“What about Lizzie?” Eddie says, teary eyed by the thoughtful gift.

“I’ll babysit her, if you’re okay with that.”

You both hug Wayne before exchanging your gifts. Eddie gifted you a new record player and you gifted him new guitar picks as well as a new amp. Eddie gasps.

“Baby… this is too much…” He says, voice choked up with emotion.

“It is what you deserve.” You tell him. He kisses you.

Wayne also gifted a Teddy bear to little Lizzie.

You spend the rest of the night unwrapping the other gifts you bought for your daughter, eating Christmas cookies, and talking amongst yourselves.

This was your first Christmas as a family, and it was the best one you’d ever had.

A/N: I’m so sorry, this was supposed to be a drabble and I got CARRIED ON. So yeah guess those of you who like longer works were happy today!

[haravath0t]

||𝔗𝔥𝔢 ℭ𝔥𝔯𝔦𝔰𝔱𝔪𝔞𝔰 ℭ𝔥𝔯𝔬𝔫𝔦𝔠𝔩𝔢𝔰:

ℜ𝔢𝔵 ℑ𝔫𝔠𝔬𝔤𝔫𝔦𝔱𝔬 ||

𝚣𝚑𝚘𝚗𝚐𝚕𝚒 𝚡 𝚛𝚎𝚒𝚗𝚌𝚊𝚛𝚗𝚊𝚝𝚎𝚍!𝚛𝚎𝚊𝚍𝚎𝚛

𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑹𝒊𝒌𝒂𝒏𝒆 𝑾𝒐𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑨𝒅𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝑪𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒂𝒓 - 𝚍𝚊𝚢 𝟽

𝚜𝚢𝚗𝚘𝚙𝚜𝚒𝚜 : ̗̀➛ a spin off of the tale of the lone glaze lily; zhongli is taking another walk around liyue, recalling the voice of his goddess. it is only when you come with him to dinner that he cannot shake off the sight of his late songbird.

☕🤍🌿 𝚕𝚒𝚋𝚛𝚊𝚛𝚒𝚊𝚗'𝚜 𝚛𝚎𝚌𝚘𝚖𝚖𝚎𝚗𝚍𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚘𝚗: 𝚙𝚕𝚎𝚊𝚜𝚎 𝚛𝚎𝚋𝚕𝚘𝚐 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚒𝚏 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚎𝚗𝚓𝚘𝚢𝚎𝚍 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚜𝚝𝚘𝚛𝚢 ! 𝚒𝚝 𝚑𝚎𝚕𝚙𝚜 𝚝𝚑𝚎 𝚕𝚒𝚋𝚛𝚊𝚛𝚢 𝚝𝚎𝚗𝚍 𝚝𝚘 𝚢𝚘𝚞𝚛 𝚗𝚎𝚎𝚍𝚜 ! ☕🤍🌿

He couldn’t believe it, his heartstrings were being pulled as you sang away at the Pearl Galley. Everyone’s eyes, including the former archon, were on you. It is only when your director had introduced you to this famed consultant that you two had seemed to hit it off right away. Zhongli and you had a connection that had grown with ease, grown like a blooming flower. He was as knowledgeable as all have said, and he was a fantastic listener. You always thought it was so embarrassing, feeling sometimes like you were talking for way too long before he reassures you with a “No, please. I’m listening.” He always had a soft smile on his face as he listened to you. It was clear he’s grown fond of you as you have grown fond of him, caring for you like you care for him.

But you didn’t know what has always run through his mind after being with him for a year, knowing him for three. He noted how your voice was similar to her, that your eyes, your smile, you laugh…it was all pointing back to her. As you walked alongside Zhongli through the harbor, watching the Xiao lanterns rise in the sky and blend with the stars above, he couldn’t keep his eyes off of you. Tears formed in his eyes as you smiled with glee, the childlike look of content that had burst from your own mortal being only reminded him of the very same glee she had expressed to the Liyue of the past. It was then that he had realized:

She is you. You are her. His songbird.

The very epiphany hits him like a rock, undeniably worse than the stones he has hurled during the war, seeing you now eagerly sit at Third Round Knockout beside him rather than across, wanting to hug his arm as you two await the food that is to come.

“You’re quite eager,” Zhongli notes with a smile, chuckling a bit as your head is seen nuzzling against his coat for warmth.

“I think I have every reason to, right?” You tease with a grin, your eyes meeting his own. You cannot help but note the tears on his eyes, those beautiful amber orbs that always seemed to show how much you shined to him, as though you were as golden as Mora.

“You do,” he finally concedes, finding himself unusually bashful at how intimate this felt. An intimacy he has not felt for centuries, has now returned, and in what better way than you? He couldn’t find anything else to say, his heart feels like it’s being squished, but before he exerts even more effort, you stop him, gently playing with the tresses of his brown hair. “I have been blessed,” Zhongli whispers, as though in an exhale of relief. There it was, your touch. Though memories of what you looked like began to erode in his mind as hard as he tries to cling to it, the very touch, the very love you have given him as Morax, has now cracked through the erosion of time, as though it had been brought back to its prime.

“Oh, my dear.” He whispers quietly into your head, a volume that only indicated that it was meant for your ears. You cannot help but smile even more, grinning ear to ear as he held your waist now, as though in a desperate grasp.

“You little sap, you’re going to make me cry too!” You whisper, laughing a bit as you indulge in his embrace, loving the warm that he has brought to you, body and mind.

You have taken his breath away. Your touch, your confidence, your care, your smile. Oh, how it all relieves him. It has become his first impactful experience as a mortal, feeling as though he was the one being blessed rather than the one giving the blessings himself. It had felt as though fate has allowed him a second chance, a chance at love and a chance at achieving the peace he has long craved.

With you, his Songbird.

[miumura]

( 🥞 ) WARMTH FOR TWO — NICHOLAS DRABBLE

[ DAY TEN ] of the advent calendar !

( 🥞 ) RELEASING . you’re cold, but he’s warm. so, what’s the solution for that on a cold, chilly morning?

( ෆ ) PAIRING . bf!nicholas x gn!reader

( 🥞 ) GENRE . fluff, established relationship

( ෆ ) WARNINGS . skinship, that’s all i believe ~~ WC 400+ !

( 🥞 ) ENDING . this was made for my bae @flwoie since we both r going insane over nicho rn !! i love him sm

The ringing of your alarm jolted you awake, the familiar sound startling you. You struggled to keep your eyes open, wrapped in a huge blanket. Rolling to the left side of the bed, you realized that Nicholas wasn’t in the room, only meaning he could be in the bathroom or making breakfast. But, the smell of the pancakes already answered your question, prompting you to get up from laying down.

Once you shrugged off the blanket, a chill immediately pricked your skin, making you try to rub your hands along your arms. It just had to be this cold today, but that’s always December for you. Swiftly making your way to the kitchen, you caught sight of the back of your boyfriend, cooking something up on the stove. If you were going to be completely honest, he looks super fine right now–when was he never hot?

"Hey," you greeted, sidling up next to him, trying to sneak a quick bite. "Morning," Nicholas responded, his tone suggesting a smile. He promptly fed you a piece, chuckling once you signaled your approval.

"How was your sleep?" Nicholas grabbed the eggs from the counter, cracking them onto the pan. You yawned, stretching your arms. "Pretty good. And you?"

“Not too bad."

Shifting the conversation, you said, "It's pretty cold—how are you in a short-sleeved shirt right now?" Nicholas glanced at his shirt, then back to yours. You were in a long-sleeved pajama set, still seemingly shivering from the cold.

"I've gotten used to it?" Nicholas chuckled softly, still stealing glances at you while you focused on preparing the two cups of coffee. "Are you cold?"

“Very,” The cold air continued to hit you despite the long layer over your arms. You continued to rub your hands, grabbing his attention. Sensing your discomfort, Nicholas, without a word, tenderly took your cold hands in his, the icy touch meeting his warm skin. He drew you closer, making you stand behind him. Surprising you with the sudden heat, a small smile graced his lips as he enveloped your arms around his waist.

Allowing his shirt to cover your hands, he used his free hand to rub yours, hoping it would just be enough for you. Your breath hitched at the unexpected but comforting warmth that radiated from Nicholas. Gradually, you relaxed under his touch, resting the side of your face against his back, staying put.

"You're such a flirt," you teased, hearing his laughter. "What? You're cold, and I'm warm – it's just warmth for two."

💭 — should i start writing for &team 🤔🤔🤔

ADVENT CALENDAR MLIST — @en-dream @i-yeseo @yizhoutv @yuma-is-mine @wtfhyuck

[bucky-barnes-diaries]

Day 11 — Cozy Night

Pairing || TFATWS!Bucky x Female!Reader

Word Count || Around 600

Contents & Warnings || Fluff — no warnings.

Disclaimer || English is not my first language so I apologise for any mistakes or misunderstandings!

Advent Calendar 2023

You and Bucky had spent the week in a magical cabin nestled within a winter wonderland forest. The getaway was a relaxation for you both, offering a sanctuary from the busyness of everyday life. Your days were spent visiting the charming town, exploring cute vintage shops, and savoring cocoa at the cozy cafe.

Your evenings unfolded in the warm embrace of the cabin, where you and Bucky cuddled by the crackling fireplace with an assortment of books. Wrapped in a thick blanket, you shared beautiful moments, taking turns reading passages and stealing soft kisses between lines.

On the last day, plans of departure were interrupted by an unforeseen snowstorm, the roads dangerous. Stranded for a few more days, you and Bucky embraced the unexpected twist of fate, turning it into another cozy night with each other.

The storm-induced power outage left the cabin in darkness, with only the flicker of flames in the fireplace and the gentle glow of the candles illuminating the space.

Nestled on a plush sofa, your legs covered by a thick blanket, you and Bucky snuggled together. The warmth from the fire and each other kept the chill away.

You were at the end of your book, and Bucky took charge of reading the final chapters. His voice was a soothing melody, a comforting cocoon enveloping you both. He kept the story flowing, his voice becoming a rhythmic lullaby that was almost hypnotic. Tracing the plates of his vibranium palm, your fingertips danced along to his storytelling.

At the conclusion of the book, Bucky’s soft voice lingered in the air, leaving a warm, happy feeling behind. Closing the book, he kisses your temple, and you hummed in contentment.

“Hmm, that was a wonderful story, babe. Your storytelling skills are on point. I could listen to your soothing voice forever.”

“Well, I’ve had a few centuries of practice,” he mumbled, brushing his lips against your skin.

Cuddling closer, limbs entwined, you let the warm flames and the echo of the tale envelop you both.

“What should we do now?” you pondered, breaking the comfortable silence.

“You’re not tired?”

You shook your head. “Are you?”

“Not the slightest. How about we do a puzzle?” Bucky suggested, eyeing the 500-piece set on the coffee table. The box was adorned with a snowy, picturesque landscape with a cabin, much like the one you found yourselves in.

“Let’s do it.”

Seated comfortably on the sofa, still close, you unpacked the contents of the puzzle box onto the coffee table, sorting through the countless tiny pieces.

You began with the edges, searching for the border pieces that would lay the foundation for your masterpiece. Your conversation flowed between debates over puzzle piece placement and sweet nothings whispered to each other. Occasionally, Bucky would kiss your cheek or nuzzle against your skin.

As the puzzle took shape, you became immersed in the details of the image coming to life. The crackling logs and the wind’s howl serve as background music, along with the satisfying click of connecting the pieces together.

When the final pieces fell into place, a sense of accomplishment washed over you both. The once chaotic pile of puzzle pieces had transformed into a breathtaking panorama.

“We did it. It’s beautiful, Bucky,” you hummed, resting your head on his shoulder, nuzzling into the soft material of his sweater.

“Yeah, it’s beautiful,” he agreed, voice low and soothing as he draped an arm over you, pulling you closer. “Almost as beautiful as this moment with you.”

Meeting his gaze, filled with adoration, you felt a rush of affection. “I’m so glad we got stranded here for a few more days.”

“Me too, doll,” he whispered, leaning in to press a tender kiss to your lips. “It turned our simple getaway into a magical adventure.”

Feedback through a comment is highly appreciated! Or let me know through an anonymous ask if that feels more comfortable. As well as a reblog to share my work with other people!

I don’t do taglists so please follow @bucky-barnes-diaries-library and turn on notifications to never miss out on my writing!

[riverwriter]

“It’ll be fine,” Hermione reassured Draco as they walked up the path to the Lupin cottage, the back of her palm brushing against his.

They had become friends during the first term of their eighth year and it was an unspoken reality that they were headed towards more, but they weren’t there yet. So, as much as she wanted to grab his hand to reassure him, she resisted.

He was as uncomfortable as she’d ever seen him. She had been invited for a small dinner party at the Lupins, which luckily coincided with a night her parents planned on attending a Christmas party, and the owl which invited her reiterated Remus’ sentiment that the invitation also extended to Draco. He said that Tonks, Andromeda, and Sirius all wanted to meet him.

Hermione had expected Draco to make an excuse, though she knew that he was interested in meeting his family she wasn’t sure he would be ready, or he’d want to do it in one fell swoop. But he surprised her. She was proud of him and she told him so, but she thought he might have been regretting his rather impulsive decision now that the situation was just beyond the door of the cozy cottage in front of them.

Though it was the Lupins’ home, when that door flew open, it was Sirius who came bounding outside. He skidded to a halt in front of them: “Hello Cousin,” he held out his hand for Draco to shake and then turned to Hermione, “and Miss Granger,” he gave her a dramatic bow.

Hermione rolled her eyes, but she was happy to see him so alive and chipper. Being able to finally walk around a free man had done wonders for him. He’d been eating well for years now, but only in the past six months had he finally started to look healthy.

Sirius turned back to Draco. “It’s nice to finally meet you, but I must say it’s a shame you look so much like your father.”

Hermione winced. Draco’s relationship with Lucius was beyond complicated, and she didn’t think Sirus could possibly be ignorant of that fact.

Draco just cocked one eyebrow. “And I’d be better off looking like a Black?” He asked, pointedly looking Sirius up and down.

Sirius, contrarian that he was, beamed. “Touche! Perhaps you’ll avoid our family madness as well!”

“Speak for yourself, Sirius!” Hermione looked over to see Andromeda standing next to her daughter, both of them crowded in the doorway.

“Yeah,” Tonks added, “some of us are perfectly sane! You just embrace the crazy.”

Hermione chuckled as Sirius made a face then ushered them towards the house. He introduced Andromeda and then Tonks to Draco. (‘My name is Tonks, you can call me Tonks, some people shouldn’t be allowed to name their children,’ had made Draco laugh, and visibly relax.) And then they entered the heavily decorated cottage.

They all stood around chatting after being joined by Remus, Teddy, and Harry who’s eyes darted disbelievingly between Hermione and Draco. It had been weeks since she had told Harry of their friendship, but actually seeing it still seemed to have caught him flat footed. Then they sat for dinner.

Before they began eating Sirius stood, wine glass in hand. “I would like to thank the Lupins for hosting me while I look for a house that isn’t haunted by my dear mother’s portrait.”

The couple in question smiled and nodded.

“And I would like to make a toast to House Black,”

Sirius continued, “this little gathering gives me hope for it that I haven’t had since I was a teenager. I would like to thank you all for that and just say: may the House of our ancestors rise from the ashes with the purity of a newborn phoenix.”

Hermione’s eyes went wide in surprise by the way that Sirius was interpreting the family motto, turning into something positive: purity of the heart and soul, not the blood.

“Toujours Pur,” Sirius finished quietly, holding out his glass.

“Toujours Pur,” they all repeated and clinked their glasses together, ringing in something beautiful and new.

Day 23: Sirius Black (This can be read as a follow up to Date 22, or just by itself. Also, Sirius lives too! 😀)