#Ella Boutique

[kniteracy]

Paradox

From Lira: Sometimes I think I’m losing my mind, which is weird, because my mind is really all I have. It’s all I’m good at. Some kind of tunnel One minute, I was trying to hone this “second sight” thing, and then with no warning, I found myself in some kind of tunnel. Well, not exactly a tunnel. I could see moonlight, so whatever it was, it was open to the sky. Tunnels are meant to be…

[magicalellafontaine]

Ask Meme 1: 1, 3, 4, 8, 9, 15 - Ask Meme 2: 4, 10, 16, 18, 20, 26 - Ask Meme 3: 15, 16, 17, 18, 10, 21

Ask Meme 1: 1, 3, 4, 8, 9, 15

What did you dream about last night?

I dreamed about Sally (*blushes*) that we were dancing at a ball, and that we were both princesses. It was cute.

Do you feel more connected to the moon or the sun?

Good question, where Dandelion is my sun, I'm more of a moon person?

Have you ever wished on a shooting star? - death tw

countless of times, I wished my mother would get better, my father would safely return, that prince charming would swift me away from my stepmother and stepsisters. But sometimes wishes upon stars don't come true, and you get something better.

Do you believe in guardian angels?

I do.

What’s a smell that reminds you of home? - death tw

When my parents were still alive, it was the varnish they put on the furniture and old book pages. When I lived with my stepmother it was ash, and now I'm with Sally it's orange juice in the mornings.

Talk about something exciting or good that happened to you this year.

Well, I got a girlfriend this year, which is the joy I've currently been feeling. @sallytheseamstress

Ask Meme 2: 4, 10, 16, 18, 20, 26

What is your dream? (And you don't have to answer this out loud but what steps can you take towards it?)

To work for Vogue, or dior.

What would you rather be doing right now?

Lazing around on my couch, but as a mother, you have a lot to do and so little time, especially as a single parent, luckily I have sally to help me when I have it rough.

A food you want to try?

Paella

What or who has had the biggest impact on your life?

My mother, she taught me to be courageous and kind no matter what.

At what age do you wish you could (even temporarily) return to with all of your knowledge intact?

I'd want to be ten again, and hold my mother one last time before she passed away, tell her everything will turn alright in the end. And that I'll make her proud one day.

Hum the first thing that comes to mind. What was it?

HMM HMMM HMM HMMMMMMMM

the story of us - taylor swift

Ask Meme 3: 15, 16, 17, 18, 10, 21

What kind of weather do you like the best?

snow, Dandelion was born on a snowy day, so therefore I like the snow.

Talk about something you love?

Well, it comes as no surprise that I love fashion, graduated as a fashion student in college, but my true passion lies in the design of shoes. Rather than suits and dresses.

What is something you are scared to do, but absolutely should?

enter the attic, it holds a piece of my darker past but it also would make for an ideal place for a play room for dandelion. I'm still divided if I want her up there.

Share with us a recipe?

Talk about something you are working on?

Why talk about it if i can just show you ;)

I've designed these for Elsa.

What are you currently reading? Give us a quote if you like?

Romancing mister Bridgerton

“His love hadn’t been a thunderbolt from the sky. It had started with a smile, a word, a teasing glance. Every second he had spent in her presence it had grown, until he’d reached this moment, and he suddenly knew.

He loved her."

Well I hope that answered all you wished to know about me - toodles

[moviestarmartini]

ella es mi fiesta — jude bellingham x hispanic!reader

es la favorita, la mujer más buena / la que más me gusta de todas las nenas / es la mamacita, se me agua la boca / que no más las miro y todo me provoca.

summary: jude has completed his move to madrid, and while you watch him shine, you've got a wedding to plan.

wc: 3.1k

warnings: wedding!! tried not to specify much so it adapts to everything (methinks), good mother/daughter relationship lol, short nsfw but still 18+, brief female masturbation, unprotected sex (not endorsing it!!!), lots and lots of sappy crying, smau at both the beginning and the end, sentences in spanish, a paragraph in spanish will be translated at the end hehe

previous part

A bigger, brighter spotlight started to shine on your fiancé. 

You knew Jude deserved that and more, and you were more than satisfied with his success. If college wasn’t occupying your nights, you saw him at the Bernabeu whenever you could, preferring to sit outside than inside the VIP boxes to feel la afición you grew up with. Feel that passion and support surrounding you, coursing through your veins. 

Nothing had really changed; you still supported him through thick and thin. You cried when he scored a brace against Barcelona, and held him close after the endless recovery hours when he was injured. The fact he was physically closer only improved your relationship further. 

You never knew how much you needed to have him close by. 

But being at Real Madrid had its disadvantages. You barely got to hang out around campus to avoid people asking too many questions, wanting to know more about your relationship with the golden boy. But most of this chatter wasn't even questions about you or him, they were directed towards your relationship. 

The same comments you’d read on Twitter and his Instagram Posts— not yours, considering you decided to keep your account private for the time being. Things ranging from your age, the time you’ve been dating before the proposal to downright wishing you wouldn’t even make it to the wedding and just cancel the engagement. 

You’d discussed these comments with Jude, and his reassurance was more than enough to keep you at peace about your relationship. But the criticism only made your body burn with the necessity to prove everyone wrong. So you kept your head down, concentrating on your studies and planning the wedding on the side. You had bimonthly reports to Jude about the progress of everything, though Denise had been a godsend this whole time. Any decision you needed an opinion on, she was there to provide the most helpful insight when Jude wasn’t able.  

As he settled into the team, the teammates he grew closer to got to meet you, all of them absolutely adoring you and the pair you made with the englishman. 

“When are we getting our wedding party ask? Cama here wants to be the flower man.” Tchouameni joked, elbowing his fellow french national on the ribs as the group exploded with laughter. 

During one of the international breaks Jude surprised you with his return by joining you during a cake tasting. He wasn’t fully recovered from the injury and was sent back, having taken a few hours off to be with his ‘best girl’— he said himself. 

“Shoo, or I’m going to report to the mister that you’re playing hooky.” You stuck your tongue out while dropping him off at Ciudad Real Madrid for his recovery training. The truth was, you had a dress fitting that afternoon. Your mom, Denise, your cousin and your best friend were in attendance. 

You’d find your dream dress at a boutique in the city center, the streets crowded enough for people to recognize you and snap a few blurry pictures entering the shop. None of those wearing the dress, thank goodness, but by the time you found out people started to realize you and Jude were actually getting married that year, you were too elated to care. The dress fit like a glove, and your mom couldn’t help but sob by seeing you in it. She bought it on the spot without much consideration, and considering you were the only girl in your nuclear home, your mother was going all out for her little girl’s wedding. 

As the temperatures dropped, the planning became more frantic. You had fifty calls to make every single day confirming everything, keeping Jude updated and checking one last time for the RSVPs. As November edged in, you only felt more and more nervous. 

“Are we too insane for this? We should’ve waited for two years from now maybe…” You wondered out loud to Jude as you finished the engagement photoshoot. Brunch was your thing, so it was a playful twist on the theme. 

“Look at me,” He incited, taking your face in his hand. His eyes were full of reassurance, and it always surprised you to see how he never doubted anything for a second. “I’ll do whatever you ask of me. If you want to delay it for fifteen years I’ll wait patiently.” The photographer was already packing up his things, but perked up when he noticed the intimate moment going on. He didn’t interrupt, just taking a few candids. 

His understanding just melted away any doubts instead of reinforcing them. You scooted closer in your chair. “I’m not moving anything. The wedding’s in a month, and I couldn’t be happier.” You cooed, your fiancé humming happily as he kissed your forehead. 

When you received the pictures you came to notice those candids turned out to be your favorites. Not that the others looked bad— on the contrary, you both looked stunning— but they transported you back into that moment full of reassurance and love. 

Before you knew it, the last game of the season transpired, along with your last class before exam season took place in January after your Winter vacations. 

After your wedding. 

For your bachelor and bachelorette parties respectively the two of you decided to celebrate during the day so that night the rehearsal dinner could take place at the same cozy chateau the wedding was taking place the next day. It was more of a mixer than anything else, considering Jude had guests come from all over to the event. All of them you knew, since you both agreed to keep it tight knit on both sides. There had also been a sworn secrecy, you’ve giggled for hours reading Twitter threads speculating when your wedding was taking place when it was literally happening right under their noses. 

It had been an hour or so since the last of the guests either drove home or crossed over to stay at the boutique hotel nearby. Both of your families were sleeping in the other rooms in the venue, but the matrimonial bedroom was left for your solitude. 

“Can’t sleep either, eh?” You turned to Jude’s husky voice from the bedroom door. You got up with a nod, watching as he closed the door behind you. “Anxious?” 

“Definitely.” You agreed, pulling him down and into a hug. “Young bride was not something I ever pictured in my resume but that was before I met you.” You muttered, cupping his face and kissing his forehead. 

Jude observed your movements slowly, feeling the cold white gold against his cheek. He turned his face and kissed your palm before taking it in his hand, kissing your fingers, never breaking eye contact. He inched in, nose brushing against you and you knew well enough his intentions. 

“In twenty-four hours we’ll consummate the marriage, Belli-bear; don’t.” You warned him with a playful smile, noticing how he leaned down and kissed your neck slowly. You couldn’t resist, tilting your head back. With all the planning involved, you barely got to see anything of each other, even less intimately. 

“I don’t care.” He grumbled, sliding his hands on your thighs as you stumbled over to the edge of the bed. He sat first, drawing you over to his lap. “I’ve barely seen you in the last two months.” Jude linked your lips together, and you melted right into his lap. It was slow, taking your time. He pulled down the straps of the soft cotton pajamas, letting the top roll down and pool at your waist. 

Your bare chest heaved against his clothed one, and he removed the shirt before his hands cupped your breasts. The tension building up in the room was something you’ve never experienced before; it was mind numbing, almost. 

“I love you.” You muttered something you’ve said so many times previously, but it felt like the first time. You noticed how he swallowed hard, his eyes looking up at you with utter admiration. Instead of replying right away, his hand sneaked under the matching shorts, past your underwear. Your breath hitched, his middle fingers drawing circles slowly. 

“Yo también te amo.” He replied, licking his lips. You slightly raised your brows in surprise; it was usually the other way around. You said it in Spanish and he replied in English. Now his tongue spoke your language with ease each day. Your mouth twitched lightly into a smile, interrupted by a moan as he gathered the slick pooling around his fingers. 

“Let me take you, please.” His begging was sincere, knowing you could easily decline and follow traditions. Not that you hadn’t done it before, but maybe right before your wedding was pushing it. “I’m too eager… I don’t think I can wait until tomorrow. 

You have been feeling his boner pressing against your thigh for a while now, yet again adding to his honesty. Your thoughts were racing a hundred miles per hour, but you concluded there was nothing traditional about this in the first place. The two of you were bending the rules over backwards from the day you met. A smile still rose to your lips, pulling him into a kiss and pushing him onto the bed. 

“Take me now. Tomorrow you’ll do it forever.” You brushed your nose against his, and he switched places to lay on top of you. Without wasting any time he pulled your pajama shorts and underwear down, his own following soon after. 

“Uh, fuck— I forgot,” He looked around the room, trying to figure out if you’d brought any condoms. You pulled his face towards yours, cupping his jaw in your fingers. 

“I’ll take a pill tomorrow.” You noticed how his eyes shone in a way you’d never noticed before, and he caught your lips in his once more, brushing his tip against your entrance. You mewled, feeling the stretch and embracing it warmly. Your fiancé held you against his chest, kissing the top of your head. 

“You feel so warm,” He practically whined, starting to draw out long thrusts. You could barely reply to the praise, trying to keep your moans muffled by hiding your face in his neck. “So perfect for me, my girl.” 

He knew those strained moans like the back of his hand, the kind where you seemed to be choking on air. The way your cunt squeezed him was enough indication. “Yes, baby. Do it, cum for me.” You exhaled in a way it was apparent the permission lifted a weight off your shoulders. He held you closer to his body, allowing your moans to leave your mouth more freely without escaping those four walls. 

The stutter of his hips that came soon after, followed by a string of curses gave away that Jude was close too. You kissed his strong shoulders, giving him words of encouragement as he perched your legs over his shoulders and started a painful pace to find his release. Still, he looked down at you with a fondness that made your heart melt, leaning down for a final kiss as he pulled out and shot ropes of white to cover your lower tummy. 

“How about a warm bath?” He proposed tenderly, and you couldn’t have said no, even if you wanted to. Without even noticing you fell asleep curled up in his chest, the light steam surrounding your bodies. 

You woke up the next day to the empty bed, haven’t felt so well rested in a while. There was some chatter going on downstairs, and you peaked from the bedroom window to notice staff being led by your mother and soon to be mother-in-law assembling the ceremony venue in the vast backyard. The reality soon dawned upon you, and you wanted to throw up from the nerves and scream in glee. 

But that was the last time you were left alone with your thoughts, as a soft knock rang through the room. “Coming! Denme dos minutos!” You sprung up from the bed, quickly fixing the bed and slipping into the silk slip dress you bought for the whole ‘getting ready’ part of it. The house had a great heating system from the dropping temperatures, but you still got a matching bolero in cashmere. Upon opening the door you were greeted by your small wedding party, consisting of your cousin and best friend. Your other female family members were getting ready with you with the same team of hair and makeup. 

The greeting hugs everyone gave you were so different. They were full of warmth, positivity. You had to hold back tears when your mom hugged you, easing up all your nerves. It was as if they were confirming to you that they were there for you, sending all the well wishes for the years to come with a simple embrace. 

You had your favorite breakfast with mimosas before getting ready. Music was blasting, everyone was chatting it up and helping each other. It felt as though you were getting ready for a regular party, until your brother came knocking at the door. “Delivery for the bride.” He smiled, and the room full of women squealed. You were done with your hair already but you were going to be the last to get your makeup done. 

With a smile you kissed your brother on the cheek before ushering him out the door, taking a hold of the large box and placing it on the bed. Upon removing the lid, you gasped at the delicately placed bouquet, the one you were going to be walking down the aisle with. 

“You like it? I helped him choose. He assembled it himself last night after everyone was gone.” Denise came up to you with a warm smile, and you couldn’t help but give her a tearful nod, setting the flowers aside to give her a tight hug. You figured this whole thing was a big change for her, considering how much of a mama’s boy Jude was. 

But that embrace felt just like the others; full of support and well wishes. 

In no time your makeup started and the women got dressed, only leaving your mum to help you with the dress and the veil. “Ay mi princesa.” She exhaled, fanning her eyes as you took a step back to look at yourself in front of the mirror. You took a deep breath in, having to hold back the need to start crying. Your dream wedding dress fit you as perfectly as it did on the first fitting, and the lacy veil was as perfect as it was on your mother all those years back. 

“I think we should head downstairs. Get some pictures of our family together. Jude should be waiting outside already, so there would be no peeking.” She laughed, carefully cleaning away the tears right at the edge of her eyes. 

The following reactions were similar. Your father looked as though he was about to pass out, and your brother was left speechless. But you only cared about one reaction, and you stood perfect for the family pictures as you could only imagine how Jude would react. 

Still the anticipation couldn’t have prepared you to see him shedding real tears as you walked down the garden, unable to stop looking at you. And for a second there, you swore it was just you and him in the entire planet. 

You couldn’t stop looking at each other throughout the whole thing, no matter if you were supposed to look at the officiant. You said your vows first, eyes brimming with tears. “Most importantly, I love how you make me think I’m the brightest star in the world, no matter how bad either of us are feeling. And I promise I’ll drive you everywhere for the rest of our lives, don’t get that license, amor.” You finished with a bitter sweet chuckle. But you couldn’t have expected what Jude had to say next. 

“Uh, I’ve been practicing my vows for the past six months. If there’s any mistakes, just… keep it to yourselves.” The audience chuckled lightly, but they were as intrigued as you were. He started out by saying your name, almost breathless, “Siempre te he dicho que eres la razón por la que creo en el amor a primera vista.” You choked out a sob, as people in the audience gasped. 

Jude had written and learned his vows in Spanish. Without telling a soul. 

He apparently grew more confident, sucking a big breath in. “Y hoy, puedo decir con toda certeza que creo en el amor sincero y eterno. Todo por ti, preciosa,” His bottom lip quivered, noticing how you were made a mess, eyes full of tears. 

“Eres la estrella que alumbra mis días. Mi chauffeur que me lleva a todos los lugares sin que se lo pida.” He cleared his throat, inhaling the tears in. “Gracias por confiar en mí y en nuestro amor para llegar aquí hoy. Te amo.” 

You smiled at him warmly, and knew he would tease you later for having matching vows without knowing. The rest of the ceremony flew by, and Jude really took the ‘you may kiss the bride’ part too seriously. 

“I can’t believe you copied me…” He huffed as you made way inside the mansion, waiting in a separate room for your entrance. “…Mrs. Bellingham.” He practically giggled, and you laughed from the mirror as you were retouching your makeup.

“You’re the one that copied me! I said my vows first, idiot!” You joked, finishing the lip combo before getting to his side, holding his hand to do your entrance to the dining hall. The nerves filled you up and he noticed from the way you shifted your weight from one side to another. 

He kissed your hand and winked, and you knew everything was going to be alright. 

You found out that night most of your guests were hefty drinkers, or at least they had decided to be so for that particular occasion. But you also found out later that night that thank God you ‘consummated your marriage’ the previous night, considering you had to ask for a few of his fellow athlete friends to carry him up to the newlywed couple’s bedroom. You later laid there staring at the ceiling, stomach churning from… anticipation? The drinks? 

But even as Jude was snoring right next to you, you knew deep down everything was going to be alright. 

For the rest of your lives together.

judebellingham mr. and mrs. b 🤍

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A/N: my bf still says we can't get married so enjoyyy this delusion i'm using to cope KFDSKLSDFKLV lowk did my dream wedding here but it wasn't at the same time. hope everyone enjoyed this sappy sappy short series !! the translation to jude’s wedding vows are in that lil note in the smau !!!

[bridget-hearts]

I found this mangy old cat out in an alleyway by the boutique I’ll be getting my castlecoming dress from… I’m keeping him

Nobody tell Ella… she’s not a fan of kitties…

[walkinginthewnd]

ELLA HUNT ph. Santoni Boutique Launch, november 2023

[conversationsofyou]

                Chapter One:

The Only Living Boy In New York

"Give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world." 

~Marilyn Monroe

        

Song: Manhattan by Ella Fitzgerald & Buddy Bregman

Present day. 

The perfect ringlets that form naturally at the ends of Harry's hair, which were there this morning, have metamorphosed into effortless beachy waves most people envy. The usual result from Manhattan humidity and overly fussing about with his fingers. It's a shampoo commercial moment as it falls against his back.

Harry squeezes the bridge of his nose, a temporary relief from sinus pressure. "Are we done?" he asks with his eyes closed.

He wonders if Zayn would notice if he took a kip on the chaise by the toilets. 

                   

“Never,” Zayn responds whilst his nimble fingers sort through a display of Celine totes.

He would.

To Zayn's dismay, Harry's met his limit of consumerism for the day. He typically loves to shop; specifically when it's time to restock his art studio. Although, he's accustomed to leisurely drifting in and out of thrift shops and vintage boutiques. He allows clothing and accessories to find him. This… this has been an Olympic event. Zayn warned him beforehand that his rookie status wouldn't be tolerated today.  

After an extensive marathon of pampering and excess, Harry's eager to go home and decompress from their shopping extravaganza. He loves Zayn fiercely, but Harry's borderline fatigued. This is the sixth or tenth store they've been to; he's lost count. Each one, serving a different purpose. Zayn had to explain this to him, like he did at the last three stores. 

"This isn't one of your nifty thrifty's, darling. There's no one-stop shop for all our needs. Well, maybe Bergdorf's." 

A crash course in fashion's utility as such has been mentally and physically strenuous. If they’d concluded this field trip after facials at the spa and mimosa brunch, Harry’d be in complete nirvana.

However, the tranquil mood a much needed massage had granted him has now been replaced with extreme tension in his muscles. His sciatica keeps jolting his nerves into spasm and his toes are most definitely numb. He would've worn trainers instead of his beloved boots if he knew it was going to be this intense.

"It costs a lot to be this beautiful," Zayn throws some more fortune cookie wisdom his way as he picks up a Louis Vuitton bum bag. 

"I lost my soul somewhere between Mercer and Broome," he responds dryly.

"We can't all be as cool as you." 

“Matt got this shirt for me in Tokyo,” Harry tugs at the end of a vintage Queen t-shirt from the eighties. 

Zayn looks up at him and smiles softly. “He had the best finds. I know it's sentimental, but I also know for a fact that Matt would've told you to buy whatever the fuck you please after selling out your first exhibition. This is a triumph for you. You're allowed.”

"I've bought some things since then." 

"Interior design excluded." Zayn's mouth twitches. 

“Yeah, yeah,” Harry concedes. "So, what's on the menu here?" 

There's no other option than to swim with the current force that is Zayn.

He looks at Harry, contemplating his wardrobe journey. "This place has phenomenal denim…" He holds his hands in the air, scanning the store, like a director setting up their next frame. "Thinking of some new washes. You'd look fabulous in a mid-blue rinse." Zayn turns back to him and tilts his head. "There are other colors besides black." 

"What's wrong with black jeans?"

"Nothing. Doesn't mean you have to wear them every day. You're not Superman."

Harry arches an eyebrow. "Aren't I?" 

Zayn ignores him while admiring a Givenchy satchel. He adjusts the collar on his gorgeous Alexander McQueen gunmetal leather jacket. It's not nearly cold enough yet for the biker chic inspired hide, but as he declared before they left Harry's flat, “We must suffer for fashion the same way we do for art."

Zayn glances over at him. "I do adore your vintage, starving artist tees and ripped jeans." He offers some reassurance. "Even though you could do with a little glam rock." Though he often makes fun, Zayn's admitted in the past he approves of Harry's style choices. No matter how eccentric they are. His eyes land on Harry's boots. "Starting with those." 

Harry looks down at the worn out brown leather boots he found at one of the first thrift shops he visited in the city. He treasures them. They've given him so many miles. He'll never part with them.

He looks back up. "No." 

“Veronica!” Zayn calls out and, like a best laid plan, a tall sales associate appears with silky raven tresses styled into a long bob haircut. Veronica approaches them wearing a stunning bordeaux Bowie inspired jumpsuit. Lipstick the same shade. It captures Harry's eye instantly.

She walks over and magically produces a large box with the Saint Laurent Paris logo printed onto it. Ignoring the box, Harry scans the details of Veronica's ensemble as he admires her whole look.

Zayn catches Harry's eye and asks, "Who makes this?" As he brushes a finger over the fabric of her sleeve. 

"Custom," Veronica responds vaguely. 

It's unique and Harry can understand her discretion. 

"H, you'll sympathize as an artist. When anything innovative or gorgeous as this is mass produced, it usually turns to shit. There's something about a piece being one of a kind that's priceless."

Veronica nods her head once.

"I wouldn't share either." Zayn nods back and brings the focus back to Harry, who automatically shakes his head at the box he's holding.

Zayn clears his throat, ignoring his stubbornness and signals for the big reveal. Veronica lifts the lid and Harry swears a little golden light appears, leaving a glow shining from the box.

 

Zayn tilts the box closer to him for the full effect. "Harry, let me introduce you to your new friend, Chelsea."

He holds up the gorgeous, buttery tan suede heeled boots. "Classic and a forever staple." 

"My mother, grandmothers, and aunts all passed down their retail D.N.A. to me. These," he gestures to the boots, "are an investment." Zayn imparts some more wisdom.

Harry ignores his rising heart rate and briefly hesitates. Inevitably he gives in, running his fingers along the soft leather. The sensation is divine and smells heady in the best way possible. Boots have always been his weakness. He succumbs.

"Fine," he says like it's an imposition and grabs the boots. 

He sits down to try them on and takes off his old boots while placing the faded leather comrades next to a plush chair beside him. He's wearing his Hello Kitty socks today.

"Precious," Veronica comments and walks away towards another customer who's borderline distressed.

Song: Get On Your Boots by U2

Harry meticulously takes out all of the cardboard and packing paper. The boots slip on like a second skin. He stands up, beaming.

"Yeah. Thought so," he smirks. Zayn's super hero sixth sense always prevails. He knew Harry would eventually buckle for the gorgeous footwear.

Harry spins around in front of the mirror and does a little jig with his toes pointed.

Zayn shakes his head as he walks away. "I'm going to look for some jeans."

Harry gives him a salute and walks around the store, enjoying the boots that have already changed his life a little bit. They even have a slight heel. The soles produce a satisfying clacking sound against the stone floor as he strolls back to his old boots. They look so sad, slouching against the chair, out of shape and worn with holes. Harry frowns and picks them up. He knows it's corny but, "Still love you the best. Thank you for taking me where I needed to be," he says quietly.

Someone within his ear shot snorts, and he gently drops the boots. Harry looks up slightly embarrassed.

☆ This was definitely more than a snippet. A snip deluxe. I'd love to one day finish this fic I started seven years ago. All the inspo to my fellow writers and creators who have started something and life has gotten in the way or time is not of the essence. I empathize and relate on all levels.

Shout out to my Beta, Lau @nyxdaughterofkhaos , nothing but love and respect!!! Looking forward to continuing this journey with you ❤️

As always, if anyone has any art to share.

@kingsofeverything @crinkle-eyed-boo @twopoppies @beelou @fallinglikethis @femstyles @harryshandbag @andyouknowitis @lookslikefairytale @rhea-the-eradicator @toomanydreamers

[belencha77]

CAPITULO 22 - EL ÚLTIMO BRILLO

Luego de un corto viaje desde la estación de trenes, llegué a la famosa y elegante boutique italiana. Al bajar, caminé hacia la entrada y empujé la puerta de madera para entrar en "Le Spose di Mori". La suave música clásica creó una atmósfera serena mientras mis ojos se encontraron con una exhibición deslumbrante de vestidos de novia. Maniquíes elegantemente vestidos destacaban telas delicadas y detalles intrincados bajo luces suaves. El ambiente de lujo discreto, con paredes de madera oscura y suelos de mármol, reflejaba la elegancia romana y el romance italiano, convirtiéndolo en el lugar perfecto para encontrar mi vestido ideal.

De repente, noté que Hana estaba completamente lista, luciendo un hermoso vestido plateado mientras seguía revisando los estantes. Al verme, corrió hacia mí y me dio un fuerte abrazo.

|| ¡Riley! Me alegra que llegues temprano || exclamó.

|| Hana, te ves fabulosa... No parece que necesites seguir buscando. ¿Por qué lo haces? ¡El que llevas puesto es increíble! || le dije.

|| ¡Gracias! Realmente tuve suerte de encontrarlo. Encaja perfectamente con el tema metálico que Madeleine solicitó || respondió Hana. Noté mi sorpresa y abrí los ojos ampliamente, ya que no sabía sobre este detalle. Ella notó mi preocupación y me tranquilizó.

|| Tranquila, sé que no lo sabías, por eso estoy buscando un vestido para ti. Fue un encargo directo de Max ||

|| Gracias, ¿qué haría sin ustedes? || Respiré aliviada. De repente, Chance dejó escapar un pequeño ladrido que asustó a Hana.

|| ¡Qué precioso! ¿Y este hermoso cachorrito? || Hana se inclinó hacia Chance, aplaudiendo y rascándolo detrás de las orejas || ¿Quién es un buen perrito? ¿Eres tú? ¡Sí, eres tú, eres el buen perrito! || Chance se dejó caer al suelo, mostrando su barriga, y Hana se rio mientras lo seguía rascando.

|| Creo que te ama... Te presento a Chance, es mi nueva adquisición ||

|| ¿De verdad? ¡Está precioso! || Hana se puso de pie y se volvió hacia mí con una sonrisa brillante || ¡Riley, estoy muy emocionada! Nunca antes había estado en una despedida de soltera, pero investigué mucho. ¡Vi las trece temporadas de The Bachelorette! Me pasé toda la noche planeando mi cita. ¡Iremos a una chocolatería para disfrutar de un delicioso fondue! || De repente, me siento confundida. 

|| ¿Las trece temporadas? Pero Hana, eso es... Ese es un show muy diferente a lo que una despedida de soltera es en realidad... Espera, no entiendo. ¿Tu cita? ¿A qué te refieres? ||

|| ¡La cita para mí y Madeleine! O ¿era para todas nosotras? Por cierto, ¿dónde están los solteros? Oh no, creo que estoy un poco confundida acerca de quiénes son los concursantes... ||

|| ¡Hana, calma! || exclamé, completamente aturdida con toda la información que tenía Hana. Necesitaba explicarle que una despedida de soltera es muy diferente al show que ella vio, pero sin darme oportunidad alguna, ella aún más nerviosa preguntó.

|| ¡Rayos! ¿No me digas que nosotras somos las concursantes? ||

|| ¡Respira! || Inhala y exhala conmigo || Esta despedida de soltera no tiene nada que ver con lo que viste en el show 'The Bachelorette', ¿ok?... El programa se trata de--- || Pero antes de que pudiera explicarle, Madeleine, Kiara y Penélope entraron en la tienda, con el cabello y el maquillaje impecablemente hechos.

|| ¡Ya están aquí, excelente! || Madeleine nos miró de arriba abajo a Hana y a mí. Penélope vio a Chance y sus ojos se iluminaron, desatando la sonrisa más amplia que había visto.

|| ¡Qué precioso! ¿Puedo acariciarlo? || dijo Penélope.

|| ¡Por supuesto! || exclamé con seguridad. Penélope se agachó con cautela y extendió una mano. Chance la olió e inmediatamente la lamió, haciéndola reír.

|| ¿Acaso no eres un caballero noble y guapo? || exclamó Penélope emocionada.

|| ¿Y qué hace ese perro aquí? || dijo Madeleine disgustada, alejándose de Chance con una mirada llena de desprecio, como si fuera lo más desagradable que hubiera visto en su vida || Penélope, por favor, ten más decoro y levántate ¿sí? || Penélope se levantó con una mirada triste mientras Chance miraba a Madeleine y comenzaba a gruñir, mostrando algunos de sus dientes. No pude evitar sonreír, sabiendo que los perros son buenos jueces del carácter cuando se trata de personas, y ella tiene un corazón tan egoísta y frío || Lady Riley, por favor, mantén a ese animal lejos de mí ¿ok?... || Yo asentí con la cabeza y tomé al pequeño Chance entre mis brazos. Madeleine me miró e inmediatamente aclaró su garganta || Chicas, Lady Penélope ha organizado amablemente esta excursión de compras privada en esta boutique exclusiva en Italia para nosotras. Por lo tanto, no quiero desperdiciarla. Como les mencioné, todas deben elegir un vestido metálico. ¡Todas vamos a brillar esta noche! ||

|| Fue un placer hacerlo, Madeleine. Llamé con anticipación y les pedí que dejaran de lado todas sus opciones metálicas || Explicó Penélope mientras nos guiaba hacia los vestidos. Inmediatamente, Madeleine y Kiara seleccionan unos cuantos para cada una y se dirigen a los camerinos mientras que con Hana y yo nos quedamos admirando la selección, buscando el vestido perfecto para mí. Momentos después, Madeleine y Kiara salieron del vestuario con el vestido escogido por cada una.

|| ¡Ambas se ven radiantes! || exclamó Penélope con entusiasmo, mientras Kiara daba vueltas con un vestido blanco brillante adornado con cristales. Madeleine, elegante como siempre, ajustaba su vestido dorado y arreglaba su cabello frente al espejo.

|| ¡No puedo esperar a vernos a todas vestidas! || aplaudió Hana emocionada mientras seguía buscando algo que yo pudiera ponerme.

|| Exacto... Pero nos veremos aún mejor cuando TODAS estemos listas y vestidas || dijo Madeleine, mirándome de arriba abajo antes de cruzarse de brazos con una sonrisa || ¿No Riley? Estoy segura de que a Ana de Luca le encantarán nuestras combinaciones metálicas ||

De repente, Hana se emocionó y me entregó un hermoso vestido rosado metálico.

|| ¡Mira, Riley! ¡Encontré el vestido perfecto para ti! ¡Debes probártelo! ||

Rápidamente entré al vestidor para probármelo. El vestido metálico rosa abrazaba mi cuerpo en todos los lugares correctos, acentuando mis curvas con elegancia. El brillo sutil del tejido resaltaba bajo las luces de la boutique, dando un aura de sofisticación. Su escote pronunciado realzaba mis pechos de manera favorecedora, mientras que la parte trasera tenía una caída que dejaba mucho a la imaginación, añadiendo un toque de sensualidad discreta. Me giré lentamente frente al espejo, admirando cómo el vestido capturaba la luz y destacaba mi figura. Decidí tomarme una foto para enviársela a Liam.

R: "Su Majestad, ¿está ocupado?" Sin esperar mucho, inmediatamente mi teléfono sonó y recibí un mensaje de Liam.

L: "Para ti nunca, mi amor. Te ves absolutamente preciosa y deslumbrante en esa foto. Qué afortunados los ojos que pueden verte."

R: "Me alegra que te guste. Desearía que pudieras estar aquí para ver el vestido en persona... o para quitármelo."

L: "Eres una tentación, Riley. Lo único que desearía es tenerte a mi lado en estos momentos, deslumbrándome con tu belleza."

R: "Pronto, Su Majestad. Espero que pronto podamos estar juntos, sin que nada nos separe... Pienso en ti todo el tiempo."

L: "Y yo en ti, preciosa. No puedo esperar a tenerte en mis brazos. Mientras tanto, diviértete esta noche y piensa en lo que vendrá."

R: "Lo haré. Besitos."

L: "Que tengas una gran noche, muñeca."

Después de un momento, salgo del camerino y exclamo hacia Hana:

|| ¡Hana, este vestido es hermoso! Tenías razón || Le digo mientas que Hana abre grandemente los ojos.

|| ¡Es perfecto! Riley te ves impresionante || dice Hana sonriendo.

|| ¡Riley! || exclaman Kiara y Penélope a la vez, mirándome con una gran sonrisa.

|| Te ves preciosa || dice Penélope con sinceridad. Mientras tanto, Madeleine me observa con una mirada envidiosa, enarcando una ceja y forzando una sonrisa cargada de hipocresía.

|| ¡Vaya! Me alegra ver que estás aprendiendo a seguir las instrucciones... || comenta Madeleine con sarcasmo. Me acerco un poco más para que solo ella pueda escucharme.

|| Claro que sí, Madeleine. Incluso tuve la aprobación directa del Rey hace poco || le respondo, manteniendo mi mirada fija en ella. Los ojos de Madeleine se abren de par en par, llenándose de ira. Enérgicamente, aparta su mirada de mí y la dirige hacia Penélope.

|| ¡PENÉLOPE! ¿Por qué rayos no estás vestida? ¿Acaso el tema de mi fiesta no te quedó claro? || grita tan fuerte que casi nos deja sin oído. Penélope la mira con nerviosismo, sosteniendo un vestido morado que no era metálico como Madeleine había solicitado.

|| Lo siento, Madeleine, pero parece que no tienen nada metálico de mi talla || dice Penélope, bajando la cabeza llena de angustia.

|| ¡Eres increíble! Pero, ¿sabes qué? No me sorprende. Era de esperarse algo así de tu parte… Eres una decepción, Penélope || exclama Madeleine, mientras Penélope está al borde de las lágrimas. Me llené de indignación al escuchar cómo la trataba, y estaba a punto de ponerla en su sitio, pero Kiara se me adelantó.

|| Será mejor irnos, Madi. No quiero que lleguemos tarde a la sesión de fotos con la revista Trend que programé exclusivamente para ti. ¡La noche es joven! Nos divertiremos mucho || dice Kiara con diplomacia.

|| Eso espero || responde Madeleine, virando los ojos.

|| Mil disculpas, Madeleine, no fue mi intención dañar tu temática. Iré a pagar tu vestido, ese es mi regalo para ti || dice Penélope con completa sinceridad.

|| Por lo menos obtuve una cosa buena de tu parte. Y me alegra que no hayas traído a ninguno de tus asquerosos perros. Supongo que debería estar agradecida por eso || se ríe Madeleine, entregándole a Penélope la etiqueta de su vestido.

|| Ya vuelvo || exclama Penélope triste, dirigiéndose hacia la caja registradora, escondiendo su rostro del resto de nosotras. El trato de Madeleine hacia las demás hace que mi sangre hierva. Pero no puedo perder la oportunidad que acaba de presentarse. Necesito ver la tarjeta de crédito de Penélope, así que corro rápidamente hacia ella.

|| ¿Quieres compañía, Penélope? Iré a pagar mi vestido también ||

|| Gracias, Riley, eso sería... realmente considerado de tu parte || me responde Penélope, y juntas caminamos hacia el mostrador. Al llegar, Penélope entrega la etiqueta del vestido de Madeleine a la cajera. Mientras la señorita escanea las etiquetas, comienzo a hablar con Penélope.

|| Es muy amable de tu parte comprarle el vestido a Madeleine ||

|| ¿Sabes? Sinceramente me da igual. Haría cualquier cosa con tal de estar en su lado bueno || exclama mientras saca su tarjeta de la billetera. Rápidamente estiro el cuello para ver el número. El número es 2302, pero, lamentablemente, no coincide. Una menos.

|| Penélope, Riley, ¿pueden apurarse? No hagamos esperar a Ana de Luca || nos llama Madeleine con impaciencia. Penélope corre hacia la puerta detrás de Madeleine. Yo rápidamente pago mi vestido y, una vez que está pagado, Hana y yo seguimos a las demás damas para no llegar tarde.

**

Después de un breve viaje en limusina, llegamos a un hermoso y lujoso estudio que Trend Magazine había asegurado para el evento de prensa. Ana De Lucca, la elegante representante de la revista, nos da una cálida bienvenida al entrar.

|| ¡Bienvenidas, señoritas! Es un verdadero placer tenerlas en nuestra revista || nos saluda Ana con amabilidad y profesionalismo.

|| Gracias, Ana, es muy amable de tu parte recibirnos || responde Madeleine con una inclinación de cabeza || Estoy encantada de que Lady Kiara haya podido organizar este evento ||

|| Estaba realmente emocionada cuando la madre de Kiara me contactó para solicitar nuestra exclusividad. Además, no puedo negar un pequeño favor a una vieja amiga || añade Ana sonriendo mientras nos guía hacia un área luminosa, repleta de cámaras listas || Perfecto, señoritas, comencemos con la sesión de fotos para el reportaje. Por cierto, Madeleine, quiero decirte que te ves absolutamente maravillosa hoy || elogia Ana con una sonrisa sincera, haciendo que Madeleine se sienta muy importante.

Mientras nos posicionan frente a las cámaras, escucho a Justin a través del auricular: "Riley, aprovecha y usa a tu perro. Será un gran detalle". Asiento en respuesta, mientras Ana cuenta hacia atrás desde tres con elegancia y profesionalismo.

Con cuidado, levanto a Chance y justo antes de que tomen la foto, poso con él. El flash se dispara y Ana captura la imagen perfectamente. Chance ladra felizmente y me lame la cara, provocando una risa espontánea.

|| Oh, ¡pero qué perrito tan encantador! || exclama Ana con entusiasmo y una amplia sonrisa.

|| Él es mi Chance, nadie como él || le respondo con una sonrisa, y Ana aprovecha para tomar otra fotografía. Luego, me mira con admiración y vuelve a dirigirse a mí.

|| Lady Riley, debo confesar que tu vestido es absolutamente impresionante, el diseño es perfecto… Gran elección || elogia Ana. A mi lado, escucho a Madeleine resoplar con visible molestia, fijando su mirada de disgusto en mí. Al mismo tiempo, Justin se comunica por mi auricular.

|| Encajaste y destacaste, chica… Buena elección de vestido || comenta Justin. Sonrío, sintiéndome ligeramente abrumada por la atención. Normalmente no soy tan tímida, pero noto cómo mis mejillas se sonrojan. Ana nos hace un gesto para que nos sentemos en unas cómodas sillas.

|| Muy bien, ahora que ya tengo las fotografías, es momento de algunas preguntas… Empezaremos con la Condesa Madeleine. Dime, Madeleine, ¿por qué permites que Lady Riley esté en la corte después de todo lo que ha sucedido? || inicia Ana, con voz firme y profesional. De repente, me siento nerviosa. Sé que no he hecho nada, pero las especulaciones de los tabloides me irritan, especialmente porque todo lo que se publica es mentira.

|| Honestamente, Ana, es agua bajo el puente || responde Madeleine sin vacilar, relajándose y suspirando.

|| ¿En serio, Condesa Madeleine? El escándalo, las fotos... ¿Nada de eso te concierne o preocupa? || pregunta Ana, y es evidente que Madeleine se pone tensa y molesta.

|| Mira, Ana, para ser franca, la forma en que la prensa ha tratado a Lady Riley y ha arrastrado su nombre por el barro es vergonzosa || responde Madeleine, apretando ligeramente su vestido y mirando fijamente a las cámaras || Además, ¿dónde está dirigida la ira contra Tariq? Los medios de comunicación han guardado un notable silencio sobre su papel en toda esta terrible experiencia y se han concentrado solo en Lady Riley || añade, relajándose un poco y esbozando una pequeña sonrisa || ¿No sería mejor para Cordonia si la atención se centrara en el futuro brillante que el Rey Liam y yo estamos construyendo para nuestra gente? ||

Ana parece desconcertada, y yo también. Francamente, no esperaba estas respuestas de Madeleine. Hace pocas horas, sospechaba de ella, y ahora parece estar defendiéndome, a su manera. Ana se queda pensativa.

|| Me has dado mucho en qué pensar, Condesa Madeleine || le responde Ana, y luego se gira para comenzar a entrevistar a Kiara. Aprovecho la oportunidad para hablar con Madeleine en un susurro.

|| Madeleine, sinceramente no esperaba esas palabras de tu parte || le digo con sinceridad.

|| Lady Riley, francamente no espero que me creas, pero para que lo sepas, no fue solo por adular a la prensa. Lo que dije es muy cierto || responde Madeleine.

|| Gracias, Madeleine, de verdad lo aprecio mucho || le digo. Ella agita su mano frente a mi cara, desestimando mis palabras.

|| Por favor, no lo hice por ti. Simplemente fui sincera sobre cómo me siento respecto a esta situación || ¿Acaso estoy empezando a romper su interior helado? Bertrand tardó en demostrar su cariño, pero ahora puedo sentir una calidez emanando de Madeleine, algo raro en ella. Esto me deja con muchas dudas sobre si fue o no la culpable. De pronto, ella me susurra: || ¿Me permites darte un consejo? || Asiento con la cabeza. || Siempre dile a la prensa que tus acciones y decisiones están motivadas por tu lealtad al Rey Liam y tu compromiso con el bienestar del pueblo de Cordonia. En el momento en que parezca que haces algo por interés personal, te acusarán de egoísta o arrogante. Recuerda, ¡una mujer debe conocer su lugar! En el juego de la política, la percepción lo es todo. Puedes usar esta estrategia a tu favor o dejar que otros la usen en tu contra ||

Justin interviene a través del auricular y casi me asusta, porque olvidé que todavía estaba escuchando. "La lógica de Madeleine es un poco retorcida... Pero hay una triste verdad en lo que dice. Podría ser útil jugar con las expectativas de los medios".

De repente, Ana me llama y yo sonrío, asintiendo con la cabeza en señal de aceptación por la pregunta que viene.

|| Bueno, ha llegado tu turno, Lady Riley. ¿Qué piensas de nuestra futura reina? || me pregunta, y la voz de Justin resuena nuevamente en mi oído con una gran advertencia. "Recuerda, Riley, que este es el día de Madeleine. No seas demasiado dura con ella o la prensa se volverá contra ti como los lobos que son". Miro a las mujeres a mi alrededor, luego a Madeleine, y finalmente a Ana, sonriendo con sinceridad.

|| La verdad, Ana, es que nunca he tenido una relación cercana con la duquesa, pero he notado que es buena para Cordonia. Después de todo, fue la elección del Rey, y yo nunca haría nada para lastimarlo ||

|| Me sorprende, Lady Riley, tu respuesta. Estás dejando a un lado tus diferencias por el Rey y el país. Eres demasiado gentil. ¡Esto será una gran adición a la entrevista! ||

"¡Esa es mi chica!" exclama Justin en mi auricular, sobresaltándome un poco y provocando una pequeña risa en mí. Ana vuelve a dirigirse a mí.

|| Gracias por tu tiempo, Lady Riley. Esto ha sido extremadamente interesante. Estoy segura de que mis lectores devorarán esta edición de la revista. Y de algo estoy segura: brillarás en ella. Gracias, Condesa Madeleine, por permitirme esta pequeña entrevista. Felicitaciones por tu compromiso ||

|| ¡Gracias, Ana, por todo!... Bueno, señoritas || Madeleine aplaude y se levanta con gracia || Es hora de ver lo que Lady Riley ha planeado para la noche. ¡Vamos, vamos! ||

"Muy bien, Riley," dice Justin en el auricular una vez más. "Creo que ha sido suficiente de mi parte en tu oído. Como ya has terminado tu aparición pública de la noche, no creo que necesites instrucciones para divertirte en una fiesta. ¡Así que cambio y fuera!"

Con eso, escucho una pequeña estática en el auricular y luego un silencio en el otro extremo. Delicadamente, me quito el pequeño auricular de mi oído y lo guardo en mi bolso. Antes de salir para el club, le pido a uno de los guardias que lleve a Chance con Maxwell. No puedo dejar que el pequeño me acompañe esta vez.

**

Después de unos minutos, llegamos al lugar que Justin reservó para nosotros: el Romeo Rooftop Pool & Bar. La fachada del edificio irradiaba lujo y exclusividad, con luces suaves que resaltaban su moderna arquitectura. Al llegar, un atento portero nos abrió la puerta y un personal de recepción nos dio una cálida bienvenida. Nos guiaron con amabilidad hacia un elegante ascensor, decorado con espejos y luces ambientales, que nos llevaría directamente al club VIP en la azotea.

|| ¿Y entonces...? || exclama Kiara dentro del ascensor, mirando a su alrededor con nerviosismo || ¿Esto es un club? ||

|| Estás en lo cierto, Kiara... Es un club. ¿Por qué? || pregunto, confundida.

|| ¡Cielos, es tan emocionante! || Penélope me agarra del brazo y se ríe || ¡Es la primera vez que estamos en uno! ¡Por primera vez tendremos música fuerte, bebidas divertidas y hombres por todas partes! ||

|| Esperen un momento... ¿Ustedes nunca han estado en un club? || pregunto sorprendida a Penélope y Kiara, quienes inmediatamente comparten una mirada de complicidad.

|| No || responden al unísono.

|| Lady Riley, no todas tenemos el lujo de tener un comportamiento tan... relajado o torpe || dice Madeleine, cruzándose de brazos y mirando las puertas del ascensor con cierta preocupación. Pero antes de que pueda responderle, las puertas finalmente se abren, revelando un impresionante patio en la azotea. La escena es deslumbrante: una piscina iluminada por luces suaves, sofás blancos dispuestos elegantemente alrededor de una hoguera ardiente, y una vista panorámica de la ciudad que quita el aliento. Música vibrante llena el aire, y una barra elegante se extiende a lo largo de un lado del espacio, donde los bartenders preparan coloridos cócteles.

Kiara y Penélope están radiantes de felicidad, sus ojos brillando con emoción.

|| ¡Esto es increíble! || exclama Kiara, dando vueltas sobre sí misma para tomar todo el ambiente.

|| ¡No puedo creer que finalmente estemos en un club! || añade Penélope, riendo y señalando hacia la piscina. Madeleine, en cambio, permanece un poco escéptica, observando todo con una ligera mueca.

|| Bienvenidas señoritas. Creo que esto va a ser muy divertido. Prepárense... Nos espera una ¡Gran noche! || Exclamo con una gran sonrisa.

|| Bueno, esperemos que esta experiencia sea tan maravillosa como la imaginan || comenta, aunque sus ojos recorren el lugar con una mezcla de curiosidad y reserva.

El grupo se acomoda en los cómodos sofás blancos. Mientras nos instalamos, Kiara saca algo de su bolso y comienza a revisarlo con concentración. Aprovechando la oportunidad, me acerco discretamente.

|| Hey, Kiara ||

|| ¿Oui? ¿Puedo ayudarte, Riley? ||

|| ¿Podrías prestarme tu tarjeta de crédito? Se me olvidó la mía y es momento de las bebidas || le pido, improvisando una excusa. Kiara frunce el ceño, claramente confundida por mi solicitud inesperada.

|| ¿En serio, Riley? Eres peor que Penélope || responde Kiara molesta || Estoy rodeada de idiotas || E inmediatamente saca su tarjeta del bolso y entregándomela con gesto de resignación. Sin perder tiempo, verifico los últimos cuatro dígitos, pero son 8914. No coinciden. Suspiro internamente, otro intento fallido. Devuelvo rápidamente la tarjeta.

|| Kiara, ¡mil disculpas! Acabo de recordar que la puse en el bolso de Hana. Gracias de todos modos || le digo, intentando suavizar la situación.

|| Disculpen || una voz demasiado familiar resuena desde el otro lado de la habitación. || Bueno, bueno, bueno, miren lo que tenemos aquí ||

|| ¿Olivia? || exclamamos al unísono, sorprendidas de verla, Hana, Penélope, Kiara y yo.

|| Y tú, ¿qué estás haciendo aquí? || pregunta Kiara, siendo la única que se anima a enfrentarla. Olivia sostiene una bebida en la mano mientras responde con sarcasmo:

|| Gracias por la cálida bienvenida, chicas. Pero, ¿no esperaban verme? ¿Será que por eso olvidaron invitarme? || pregunta Olivia con sarcasmo.

|| Tonterías, Olivia || responde Madeleine levantándose con aplomo y sonriéndole || Si deseas, puedes unirte a nosotras. Simplemente no pensé que estuvieras preparada para volver a los rigores de la corte ||

Olivia toma asiento con su bebida mientras Madeleine agarra su bolso cerca de su costado. Es mi oportunidad para ver su tarjeta de crédito.

|| Voy al baño || anuncia Madeleine mientras el resto nos acomodamos || Espero encontrar champán en la mesa cuando regrese, chicas || añade antes de salir.

|| ¡Si quieres, yo cuido de tu bolso mientras no estás! || me ofrezco con entusiasmo, provocando que Olivia me mire con preocupación.

|| Gracias, pero ¿por qué necesitaría que hagas eso? || pregunta Madeleine desconcertada.

|| Porque no es seguro dejar tu bolso en un lugar tan concurrido... podrían robártelo || argumento tratando de ser convincente.

|| Mmmm... Tienes razón. En ese caso, Kiara, acompáñame tú. Esperarás afuera y sostendrás mi bolso, no Riley || dice Madeleine inclinándose más cerca || No quiero dejar mi bolso contigo ||

|| Oui, Madeleine, por supuesto... || responde Kiara rápidamente, levantándose para seguir a Madeleine al baño. Es molesto ver cómo tanto Kiara como Penélope la siguen y cumplen con todas sus órdenes.

|| Supongo que iré a buscar las bebidas || exclama Penélope, comenzando a revolver en su bolso. De repente se sobresalta y dice desesperada || ¡Diablos... ¿Dónde está? ||

|| ¿Dónde está qué? || pregunta Hana con preocupación mientras continúa buscando en su bolso.

|| ¡Mi tarjeta! Debo haberla dejado en la tienda cuando compré el vestido de Madeleine... ¡No puede ser! Esta noche no puede empeorar más || lamenta Penélope, agachando la cabeza entre las manos en señal de derrota. No puedo evitar sentir pena por ella; debe estar angustiada por lo que Madeleine podría decirle.

|| No te preocupes. La primera ronda va por mi cuenta || interviene Olivia levantándose con su bolso y tomándome del brazo || Riley, ven a ayudarme a buscar las bebidas. Necesitaré ayuda para traerlas de vuelta ||

|| Está bien... || respondo mientras la sigo hacia la barra. Una vez allí, Olivia se dirige al camarero para hacer su pedido.

|| Dos botellas de champán y seis copas, por favor || solicita con decisión. Después de dar su orden, se vuelve hacia mí con una mirada inquisitiva || ¿Qué estás tramando, Riley? || pregunta directamente.

|| ¿Esperar contigo? ¿A eso te refieres? Tú misma me pediste que te acompañara || respondo, intentando desviar el tema.

|| ¡Vamos! Sabes muy bien a qué me refiero. Te escuché hablar con Kiara mientras me acercaba, y luego intentabas quitarle el bolso a Madeleine || me acusa, observándome con atención || Estás tratando de ver las tarjetas de crédito de todas, ¿verdad? ||

Me quedo estática, con una expresión impasible. ¿Debería admitirlo o mentir? ¿Puedo confiar plenamente en Olivia?

@tessa-liam, @kingliam2019, @choicesficwriterscreations

If anyone else wants to be tagged, just let me know. I hope you enjoy this wonderful love adventure.

[iheartleopards]

here's me as Cinderella but in a yellow ballgown

This game is called Ella's boutique from meiker.io

[toastedkiwi]

Riley gifts BC these custom cowboy boots and this cowboy hat which are the first ones she’s ever received. He had also bought her a dress from this little boutique. One of his nieces helped pick it out. Ella helped him out with the boots and secretly got BC’s and Riley’s intials on the inside of the hat. BC wears it all when she’s at Hyde Park. She’s included on Riley’s set and Ella’s.

[swagreecrow]

Yo Stefany

@inspiredwriter @kawaiibunga @hedgehog-dreamer @luna-tmnt @dai-su-kiss @levana-art @razzy-zaz @raphy-the-turtle @raphaelsrightarm @donatello-writes @donnies-fake-eyebrows @rainbow-squirrels-7 @raisans-art @akarihamato04 @wolfroks @another-tmnt-writer @angel-of-the-redacted @android-cap-007 @androgynousenemydetective @lordfreg @psiquic-a-blog @psiquic-a-blog @imaginashon @imababblekat @imthegreenfairy86 @angelicdavinci @all-things-tmnt @red-knight-raphael @kathaynesart @rexim-djm @reptile-eye @red-knight-raphael @reddenedsais-inactive @lazyafgurl @theroachsalad-blog @thelostandforgottenangel @mikey-angelo-hamato @mikeyshulagirl @miss-andromeda @mishacakes @mishajeans @venisdemilo @baraturts @foulbonkcolorempath-blog @dragonfairy19 @tmnt-life-of-a-terrapin @tmntvenisxleo @nomonoma @notjustdragonspages @lyzuka @coffeestation @donnies-the-encyclopedia @rl800 @cthonyxa @silverwatergalaxy @s1eepy-0 @the-paty-dude @turtlepanic

[gritsandbrits]

Nngh first day of October here are some random Rho i made in Meiker.

[magicalellafontaine]

How do you like to listen to music? (streaming, radio, cd, vinyl...)

Oh dear, I'm a blend of vinyl and streaming. And in my store the radio is always playing.

[bridgeportbritt]

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Ella’s been enjoying Summer break with her friends. As you can see no boys around for the Duchess. Her friend, Anthony, graduated and is preparing for University. Eric has been avoiding Ella since their kiss. Meanwhile, Ella has been low key avoiding Luka whom she is still dating.

More updates featuring Ella are on the way, but it’s safe to say things are a bit more complicated than they seem!

Transcripts

SimTok: It’s Self Care Summer!

Sparkle SimDonia: Royals: They are just like us!

Duchess Ella Spotted out shopping with Friends in Downtown Umbrage

The young Duchess caused a bit of a stir when she was spotted out with friends yesterday shopping at second hand shop, Coppers, in Downtown Umbrage. We're told the royal called ahead to set up time to visit the popular boutique. Along for the retail therapy were friends, Victoria Austen, daughter of ballet sensation Debra Austen, and Grand Countess Chantel Banks, daughter of Lady Khadijah Banks of Sage. The ladies all attend SimDonia Prepatory and are currently on summer break. Duchess Ella was dressed very casually in a long tie dye shirt and leggings plus some fun heart shaped glasses she picked up inside Coppers. Royals really are just like us!

Nooboo! The Grand Duke and Duchess of Ophelia share the cutest pic of their little bundle of joy, Duchess Stephanie! The royal couple dressed down for casual photo at home which was posted to Simstagram. We can't wait to see more of Stephanie!

Simstagram: VictoriaAusten: COSMO!!! #myfavvv #yeahtheysanggalaxygirl

[edicionesneutrinos]

novedad!

LAS HORAS EXTRA

Mara Pastor

Poesía puertorriqueña, 2024

ISBN 978-987-4430-31-1

72 páginas

Una casa de madera sobre piedra volcánica en una isla caribeña. Mantenerla en pie y hacer de ella un lugar habitable requiere determinación y tiempo —que se le roba a otros sueños—, establecer prioridades sin resignar lo importante: los pequeños placeres, la atención hacia el amor y sus múltiples movimientos. Un vocabulario exuberante de especímenes animales y vegetales anida en la humedad de los versos. La exploración iniciática de una hija a través del lenguaje, con sus accidentes gramaticales y su poder de autoafirmación, estimula la propia glándula verbal. En las horas extra, Mara Pastor edifica poemas sólidos donde es posible guarecerse de la tormenta.

Mara Pastor nació en San Juan, Puerto Rico, en 1980. Es poeta, editora y profesora. Ha publicado una decena de poemarios, entre ellos Poemas para fomentar el turismo (Secta de los Perros, Puerto Rico, 2011; Neutrinos, Argentina, 2016), Arcadian Boutique (Punto de Partida, México, 2015), Sal de magnesio (Astrolabio, México; Secta de los perros, Puerto Rico, 2015) y Deuda Natal, con traducciones de María José Giménez y Anna Rosenwong (The University of Arizona Press, EEUU, 2021), merecedor del Premio Ambroggio de la Academy of American Poets. Parte de su obra ha sido traducida al inglés, portugués, árabe, polaco y esperanto. Recibió el premio Letras Boricuas en 2022, otorgado por la Fundación Flamboyán y The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation. Actualmente dirige el Programa de Escritura Creativa y Literatura de la Universidad del Sagrado Corazón en Santurce, Puerto Rico.

[freakshowtwopointoh]

Anything You Can Do - Cross The Line Part 4

Anything you can be, I can be greater

Sooner or later I'm greater than you

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“Do it again, freshie. This time, at least try to keep your legs straight.” It’s hard to complain about free tutoring from one of the best dancers in the company, but it becomes much easier when your teacher is Jordan Li. Nothing was ever good enough, and every correction was peppered with insults. But she could never bring herself to refuse their help. Not when the results of the auditions were about to come out. She performed the dance again, refraining from rolling her eyes. “And try to keep the frustration off of your face. You look constipated.” 

“It’d be easier if you didn’t insist on being an ass at every opportunity.”

“Again, freshie.”

And so she does it again. And again. And again. Until every muscle aches and it feels like the steps are blurring together into a blob of french nonsense. She stops, breathing heavily. She takes a swig from her water bottle. 

“Jesus, this is harder than when I was actually working with a coach.”

“You must’ve had a really shitty coach.” Jordan says simply, watching her as she pants. “Had enough?”

“For now, unless you want me fainting in the studio.” She says, chuckling as she unties her pointe shoes. “God, you’re lucky, you don’t have to deal with these bitches. If you could dance pointe, you might actually be the best dancer in this whole school.” She says absently. But she hears Jordan suck a breath through their teeth, and it's clear she’s hit some kind of nerve. 

“I don’t need cups on my feet to be the best dancer in this fucking school.” They snap, and leave faster than she even thought possible. Whoops. She finishes gathering her things, trying to figure out when the banter became... not banter. 

Ella shakes her head, and makes her way home. Jordan Li is an enigma in a leather jacket, and a distraction from her goals.

The next morning, the callback list was emailed to everyone who auditioned. There were two pairings competing for Romeo and Juliet: Luke and Cate, and Jordan and ... her?

Oh shit. 

Going into rehearsal, she kept her head down. She knew that everyone would be looking at her, talking about her. Not that she isn’t used to that, but now, its because the freshman got called back for the lead. And she was dancing with Jordan Li, the junior who kept getting snubbed for the lead. She begins stretching, feeling her thighs complain from the practice last night. Today is going to be a long day.

Jordan’s POV

Jordan knew that they needed to change partners if they wanted this part. First, because she’s the freshman. The freshman who is constantly on their mind, and constantly fucking shit up. Second, because she’s naive. Talking back to them, taunting them with her pointe shoes like she’s never thought about another person’s feelings before in her life. She’s just like every other snobby girl here - convinced that they are God’s gift to dance and that everyone else exists only to lift them up on stage. At least they’d danced with some of the other girls before. But Ella was just so green, so ... raw. And not to mention, every time they saw her dance, especially alone in the rehearsal room, they couldn’t help but stare. Each movement born from the music and her body working with the music to create new art. 

And yes, they were jealous. Jealous because she was right - she was the first dancer at this godforsaken company that was actually on their level. That actually lived and breathed dance. She was a dancer that .... 

No. Jordan shakes their head violently, expelling the thought from their head. They need to focus on themself, and getting that role. And they could not do that with a distraction like Ella Jackson. 

After class, when Ella did her usual duck-and-run routine (probably to go waste Daddy’s money at some stupid boutique or whatever), they went up to Lynne to try to convince her to change partners.

“Look, I know you know what you’re doing, but you have to understand, I need a more experienced dancer to shine. I’m not here to babysit, I’m here to excel.” They said hurriedly. 

“I paired you with Miss Jackson for a reason. And it was not, as you put it, to babysit. Don’t doubt my judgment, Li. I’ve told you this many times.”

They sighed, and went to say something else, but she cut them off with a wave of her hand. 

“I have other things to do than explain myself to you. Now shoo, you have practicing to do. This is not an easy Pas De Deux, as I’m sure you know.”

“Yes, madame. Good night.” She nods at them, and walks off to her office. They run their hands through their hair, frustrated. Then, begrudgingly, they head to the rehearsal room. 

When Ella arrives, they’re already snapping their third piece of cinnamon gum. The music queued on the stereo, and they’re focused on the script. Of course they hear her come in, but they don’t acknowledge her.

She clears her throat. “Hello? Earth to Li.”

“Yes, I see you. Why aren’t you warming up?” They say coldly. She rolls her eyes, and they bite back their irritation. Couldn’t she see that they were doing her a favor? They could always be meaner. She begins to warm up, and Jordan keeps reading through the choreo, trying to locate parts of the dance that would allow them to keep their distance. There were none. This dance is pure romance, and a few of the lifts require very precise positioning of their hands.

This is going to be interesting.

Ella’s POV

She doesn’t know if it was her comments last time, the fact that they were paired together, or just a general dislike, but Jordan was especially irritable during their first callback rehearsal. They spent the whole time watching her like a hawk, not dancing at all, as if nothing had changed. Snapping that fucking gum, having her repeat the routine over and over and over again with very little information on how she should be dancing. By the end of the night, she was ready to strangle them. 

“Again, freshie.” She clenched her jaw so tight it hurt her teeth. “And get that look off of your face.” She narrowed her eyes, and considered storming out. But she took a deep breath, and settled into position. Jordan chuckled, and started the music. She did the routine one more time, keeping her mind focused on the music alone, and when she was done, she was actually almost proud. She sat down to take her shoes off, and Jordan cleared their throat. “You’re not done here.”

“Yes, actually, I am.” Ella says simply, massaging her feet. “There’s only so much verbal abuse I can take at a time.” Jordan laughed once, humorlessly. 

“Whatever you say, freshie. I’m not complaining.” She finished packing up her stuff.

“Oh, Jordan? Um, I’m sorry. For yesterday. That was a low blow.” She says it quickly, and leaves the room before they can give her a clever retort, or ask her to explain further.

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au by @poppy-metal

edits by @barbieprincesshilton

[sharedsexshop]

¿𝐀 𝐐𝐔É 𝐋𝐄 𝐋𝐋𝐀𝐌𝐎 𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐆𝐔𝐀 𝐓Á𝐍𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐂𝐀? A una lengua que es capaz de transmitir tu potencial orgásmico, se vuelve una extensión de tu corazón, siendo capaz de penetrar la piel de tu pareja con cada deslizamiento corporal Se desliza sobre la espalda de tu pareja y con firmeza "penetra" cada vértebra, subiendo lentamente por cada una de ellas estremeciendo el cuerpo y haciéndola vibrar. La lengua tántrica ayuda a penetrar el ser de esa otra persona casi, como tu pene o tu vulva, salvando las distancias, la lengua tántrica apoya con un estilo sin igual, el arte de generar sensaciones orgásmicas. Una lengua verdaderamente tántrica tiene la ventaja de "penetrar" no solo los genitales, también al lamer el cuello, la espalda, el abdomen y por supuesto los genitales de tu pareja, genera esa sensación que llega al corazón. Así de versátil es. La lengua tántrica sabe dar placer, sabe besar, sabe lamer, sabe estremecer, sabe tocar con suavidad, delicadeza, ternura, erotismo y amor con cada deslizamiento. Y además, una lengua tántrica desarrolla el poder de la intención del poseedor de esa lengua. ¿Por qué? Ejemplo, al no ser el falo masculino, la mente dota a tu lengua de más contundencia y su intención la empodera. Al no ser una vulva, la mente dota a la lengua de más amplitud en el arte de generar placer. La versatilidad junto a la intención es poderosa Desarrolla el arte del sexo oral, pero recuerda, la lengua va más allá, puede penetrar TODO el cuerpo de distintas maneras. Así es, una lengua tántrica. www.sharedsexshop.com 🛒 📲 33 2044 3332 #EnergíaVital #Tao #energía #sexofeliz #happysex #vibra #activalashormonasdelafelicidad #Tantra #orgasmosfelices #sexualidad #AlquimiaSexual #onlineshop #onlineshopping (at Shared Boutique & Lingerie) https://www.instagram.com/p/Cj9yzs-O_Pj/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=