#Endeavor is An Electric Blanket

[aheckinmess]

(One-Shot series 2/3 - regularly updated every Saturday. Toshinori fanart used in title card was created by @yokkisu! You should go follow! There's great stuff over there!)

Read on AO3.

Tags: Toshinori Yagi, All Might, Toshinori x OC, All Might x OC, Smol Might, All Might is a Ray of Sunshine, I Just Want Smol Might to Eat, Symbol of Peace to the Rescue, Damsel in Distress, Oh Wait She Saved Herself, Well Kinda, Endeavor is An Electric Blanket

Word Count: 2,759 words

Summary: When someone catches wind that Ichijiku is All Might’s love interest, she’s taken hostage and on a time table, buried underground. While she struggles to remain calm and try to escape, All Might must not only fight the villain, but also pull a confession of her location from him; if the villain refuses, will the Symbol of Peace fail to save the one person who’s life matters most to him?

Chapter 2: The Underworld

Ichijiku (Tigress)

Knowing Toshinori and All Might are one and the same shakes my world, but ultimately isn’t too overwhelming once I get used to it. In fact, it makes some things a little easier whenever he has to leave abruptly or how he only has to give me a certain look and I know plans have to change. However, it’s not until a tanned hand slaps around my mouth and I’m pulled against a taut chest that I realize exactly why Toshinori kept it a secret for so long.

I try screaming through my nostrils and my muscles push against the person behind me in a flight response, trying to escape. A deep voice growls in my ear.

“You’re All Might’s girl, aren’t you?”

I bite his hand in response.

“Easy now,” He grunts, fingernails digging into my cheeks and making me grit my teeth. “If you want an easier death, you’d better comply.”

You’re a dumbass if you think I’m going quietly. I think, but I nod as I wrack my mind for strategies to escape this situation. Forcing deep breaths into my lungs, I make myself remain calm. When his grip loosens, I only get a glimpse of two golden eyes before the world spins into darkness.

. . . . .

All Might’s smile lights up the streets as he scans the city for trouble. He’s starting to learn that with his injury, he doesn’t have as much time patrolling as he used to, but he’s too stubborn to take it lying down. He alternates between walking and encouraging citizens with floating across the skies to remain vigilant for danger.

A bank alarm shrieks a block from his location and he speeds off in a flash of blue. It appears to be a typical robbery, something easy for the robust hero to put a stop to. He’s got four men and their bags of money outside the bank when one of them speaks, fighting his restraints.

“You…ergh! You have no idea what’s in store for you, All Might!”

“Hahaha! Perhaps not, villain, but I know that justice is in store for you!” His iconic smile stays cemented in place as red and blue lights dance in his vision.

“I wonder what your precious girlfriend has in store for her?” The man snarls, lifting his head with a vicious grin.

“Girlfriend? Ha! What gave you such an idea?”

“You can’t hide that shit from me. My boss has already looked into it. You can act like you don’t know who I’m talking about all you want to, but it’ll only make her die faster.”

A menacing blue glow emanates from All Might’s eyes as he tilts his head down towards the villain, face now shrouded in shadow. He grips the front of the man’s shirt and pulls him up to his face.

“What are you playing at, fiend? Who do you work for and where is she?” He growls, making all four men cower under his gaze. Even the man he’s talking to loses his smirk and trembles in his grasp.

“G-Got your attention now, d-do I?” He scoffs, trying to brush off his intimidation.

“Where is she?” All Might repeats.

“Why should I tell you?”

All Might pulls the man away from the wall and then slams his back into the brick building. He doesn’t utter a word, only glares at him and waits for an answer.

“I’m not obligated to tell you anything, Big Man. Catfish has the location hidden. Even if you could fly up and find her, she’d be dead by the time you got there.”

All Might’s heart stops momentarily in his chest as menace drips from his aura.

“Where is your boss, then?”

“He’s waiting for you in the Roppongi district.”

Close to my agency. All Might leaps from the scene as the police officers arrive, promising explanations and leaving bank tellers to give the rest of the account. When he coughs up a handful of blood, he knows he’s in trouble. I’m going to need help on this. Ichijiku needs me.

As he floats across the city towards his agency, he’s on his phone.

“Endeavor Agency, this is Endeavor speaking.” The familiar voice of his rival huffs.

“Endeavor! This is All Might. I need your help in the Roppongi district immediately. This is an emergency!” He keeps his smile in his voice, but the panic can’t be helped. Not when his reason for living could die at any minute.

“All Might!” He wonders just how hard Endeavor is clenching his jaw to keep from saying some quippy remark. “I’ll be there soon. Is there anything I should know before I reach your location?”

“It’s Catfish.”

. . . . .

When I open my eyes, I’m trapped. Darkness surrounds me and breathing is difficult. As I start moving to feel around for my surroundings, my shoulders and legs bump against hard wood. Panic settles inside me as I reach above me to feel the same thing.

I’ve been buried alive! That bastard buried me down here. How am I going to get out?! Am I going to die down here? The more frantic my thoughts, the more frantic my breathing. As soon as I realize this, I close my eyes - not that it makes a big difference - and inhale deeply, holding for a moment, and then exhale. I can get out of here. I just can’t panic. Toshinori will find me, but I have to find a way out of this coffin first. The box is made of wood, so it’s not metal or anything reinforced that we can’t break.

I remember reading an article somewhere about tying my shirt around my head to keep dirt particles out of my face. Though it’s a tight space, with steady breaths and a stubborn disposition, I wriggle out of my shirt and tie it around my head. I brace my back against the box and kick the top above me.

There’s no telling how long I work at it. My bones shiver with despair and I worry this will all be for nothing as it becomes harder and harder to breathe. But then a loud crack encourages me to redouble my efforts. When I shove harder with all the strength in my legs and dirt starts pouring in, I have to remind myself to keep my breath steady.

I shove all the falling dirt down to the empty space at my feet, slowly making my way to a seated position as loose earth continues to rain upon me. When I can finally stand, I let the remaining dirt compile under my feet, and shove the rest out of the coffin. When I finally breach through the surface, I can see the colorful world filtered in the blue fabric of my shirt.

I untie my shirt and pull it down to more clearly see my surroundings; tears trickle down my cheeks as I locate a ledge I can reach. Clawing the edge of it, I hoist myself up and haul myself out of the hole.

The metal ends of five guns swivel in my direction and take away all the breath I’ve just earned.

. . . . .

“I thought you’d put this guy away months ago!” Endeavor roars, focusing on minimizing collateral damage while All Might fights a dark-haired man.

It’s been a minute since the fight started and Endeavor can see Catfish is already winded. The only thing in his favor is his quirk. With the ability to manipulate tectonic plates, minor earthquakes cause the number two hero to help civilians and avoid as much damage as possible while All Might fights.

Regardless of the wild goose chase, All Might has Catfish restrained in minutes.

“Where did you put her?” He grounds out, fighting against every murderous urge in his body.

“What’s it matter to you?” Catfish grins broadly even as he trembles under the large man’s gaze. “She’s dead by now anyway. You can only last two hours tops when you’re buried alive.”

Buried alive?! No. No, no, no! All Might’s face gives him away. Agony flashes across his features, and Endeavor speaks up to cover for him.

“If she’s dead now, then why keep her location a secret? You seem proud of your work, then show it to us.” He says.

“You’d be surprised how many isolated parks there are in Tokyo to hide dead bodies in. All it took was a keen observer to choose the right one.” Catfish taunts.

All Might slams a fist into his face, knocking out the villain as he restrains him.

“What did you do that for?!” Endeavor barks.

“I know the park. I know exactly where she’s at. Hurry!” All Might takes off, speeding off as Endeavor stubbornly attempts to keep up with him.

“How do you know?”

“Odaiba Seaside Park. It’s the only place Ichijiku and I could have been seen together recently.” He grunts at himself, doubling his pace as the world flashes by in a blur of color. “I’m so stupid! She’s going to die because of me!”

“Not with both of us on the scent.”

. . . . .

“Catfish! What are we supposed to do if the girl makes it out before All Might gets here?!” One of the gunmen speaks into an earpiece.

When another pair of arms grip mine, instinct takes over. I did not work this hard to be trapped again! I yawn, exaggerating the sound to make it louder and more potent, even as the cost of my action wreaks havoc on my throat.

Their bodies drop around me, fast asleep in a circle. As much as I want to take the time and bask in my freedom, I don’t have the luxury. I take only one minute to realize I know this park, before the sound of dogs barking in the distance sends me running.

“The dogs will find her!” I hear a voice call. “The rest of you search the park!”

Where do I go? I don’t have my phone so I can’t let Toshi know I’m safe. But I need to find somewhere to hide until he can get here. Up a tree. The idea seems the most likely to keep me hidden so long as I put some distance between the dogs and my captors. I drive my toes into the dirt, pushing my asthmatic lungs to keep going so I can make headway.

When I see a small pond, I rush over and slide into the murky water despite the frigid temperature. It seems a small price to pay for another chance at life. I hold my breath and duck under the surface before coming back up and hearing the pack of dogs closing in.

I swim downstream a little bit before hopping out and sprinting again. My poor lungs burn for oxygen, but I make a mental promise to them that they can breathe all they want to when we’re safe. A large ginkgo tree comes into sight and gives me the remaining motivation to push my legs harder across the grass.

Since I’ve been scaling trees since I was small, the hardest part of climbing is just getting to the lowest branch. I leap and hug the tree with my arms and legs, channeling Toshinori and forcing myself to use every muscle to its full potential. Once I’m secured on the lowest branch, it’s smooth sailing. I pant and wheeze as I ascend higher and higher, until the limbs feel too flimsy to hold me anymore.

I hug the limb I’m laying on, keeping my eyes trained across the expanse of the park. I shudder when the dogs come into view.

. . . . .

All Might catches sight of the disturbed earth quickly, hope alighting in his eyes when he sees five unconscious bodies surrounding the open circle.

“This is a sign she used her quirk! She must have escaped–” All Might barely gets the words out when he hears dogs barking across the park.

“Hurry! They must be chasing after her!” Endeavor warns.

The Symbol of Peace reaches the men and their dogs in seconds, shocking them when he moves faster than they can think. All Might uses the leashes on the dogs to simultaneously restrain their handlers and keep the pups from going anywhere.

“ICHAN!” He calls across the park, scouring the trees, the pond, the vast expanse of grass before them. “I’m here! Where are you?!”

Nothing. He uses his strength and jumps through the air, turning this way and that to get a good look among the horizon while Endeavor searches along the ground with a calmer head to help with focus.

When Endeavor finds footprints near a pond, he doesn’t voice his discovery at first. He follows the stream downwards, thinking she must have tried to cover her scent and gain distance. He grins when he’s proven correct as another pair of footprints shows up further down the stream.

The prints lead him to a group of trees, where he looks around for hiding places on the ground while All Might scours the sky. He’s bending at the bough of a gingko tree when a drop of water makes the flames on his hair sizzle. Rain? He looks up.

And there she is.

. . . . .

My eyes close as I listen for dogs and villains alike. Fire swims through my aching muscles while the freezing weather numbs my skin. Dogs keep barking for what feels like hours before I hear a new sound.

“ICHAN!”

All Might’s voice echoes in the distance, there’s no mistaking it. I barely crack my eyelids as I try and search for him. A flash of orange follows the pondstream below, getting closer to me. A flash of red floats upwind above the trees, moving a little slower as it tries to find me.

“All Might…” I whimper, throat crusty and torn. I turn back to the orange growing brighter and looking more like flames the closer it gets. I suddenly understand. “Endeavor…”

When the flame hero reaches my tree, I try to move. My limbs, numb and cold, refuse even to twitch. Water drips from my shirt until I see him look up at me. Please… I want to say. I’m right here. Help. His eyes meet mine and I know I’ll be safe.

Thump. I blink and All Might hangs onto the base of my tree, looking me over.

“Ichan!” His eyes glisten as he takes my limp body in his arms and hops from the tree to the ground. “I thought you were dead.” He whispers, squeezing me close.

“I…am…here…” I squeak out, my lips twitching when I see him so distraught. I’ll be your smile when you don’t have the strength to find it.

A strangled laugh escapes him before he repositions me.

“Endeavor, she’s freezing. I’m trusting you to keep her warm while I lead the police here.” He offers me out to Endeavor, before kissing my forehead. “I’ll be right back, I swear. Hold out until then.”

Warmth floods every nerve ending and thaws me as Endeavor’s body and quirk heat sinks into my skin. I sigh and shudder, slowly starting to bend my fingers the more I feel able.

“Good. Try flexing your toes, too.” He encourages.

“You’re like…giant…” I grunt, eyes rolling around as the world tilts. “Giant campfire…”

“Hey, stay awake. We want to make sure you can give a testimony to the police, okay?” Endeavor explains.

“But I’m so tired…” I whine, head lilting back. He moves his arm and it’s tilted back up.

“I know, but you’ve got to stay awake. If you start falling asleep because I’m too warm, I’ll be forced to let you get cold again.”

“You’re much ruder than I’d expect an electric blanket to be.” I huff.

“I’ve been told something like that a time or two.”

“It’s okay…dun conform…” I yawn and pat his arm. “To stereotypes.”

When All Might finally returns, it’s with a posse of medical personnel and police officers. A bright light shines in my eye and I’m asked a multitude of questions, all of which I’m able to answer.

The questioning ends and they set me on a stretcher and tuck me into the back of an ambulance. All Might assures me around a cough that he’ll meet me at the hospital, which I only allow because of the blood I see on his hand. But before he can leave, I call out for him one last time.

“All Might?”

“Yes?”

“Please don’t charge me an ice cream fee. I swear it wasn’t my fault.” 

Continue Reading -> Ch. 3

[lupinqs]

CHAPTER FOURTEEN ━━ Know It’s For The Better

☆ ━ pairing: hopkins!paige x oc (dani callan)

☆ ━ word count: 5.2K

☆ ━ warnings: mentions of abuse and conversion therapy, dani’s going through it

☆ ━ links: my masterlist, take me to church masterlist

☆ ━ author’s note: bob bueckers is the goat of this fic btw

PAIGE IS SPRAWLED across her bed when the first buzz from her phone makes her look up from the ceiling. Her thoughts have been restless all evening, but she’s too tired to scroll through TikTok or do anything productive, like finish her chemistry homework. The soft glow of her screen lights up the room, and she groans, stretching a hand toward the nightstand to grab her phone.

She squints at the text.

Thaliah Sommers

you need to come over rn

Paige frowns, her fingers hovering over the keyboard as she blinks at the clock. 11:47 p.m.

She doesn’t answer immediately. Her dad’s downstairs, the TV still on, and she can practically feel the weight of her grounding like a shackle around her ankles. She’s already walking a fine line after The Party Incident. What could possibly be so urgent that Thaliah thinks she’d risk adding more fuel to her dad’s already burning fire?

Still, her curiosity gets the better of her.

Lil Paigey

What

Why?

The reply comes almost instantly.

Thalia Sommers

it’s abt dani

she’s over here completely inconsolable

something happened with her dad

Paige sits bolt upright, the words hitting her like a slap. Dani. Her dad. Completely inconsolable. Paige’s stomach twists into knots, her heart thudding in her chest as her grip on the phone tightens. She’s never heard Thaliah use words like that about Dani before. Dani isn’t the kind of person who falls apart in front of other people. Dani’s strong—she holds things together, even when she shouldn’t have to.

Paige stares at the screen, her thumb hesitating over the keyboard. Thaliah’s next text hits before she can respond.

Thaliah Sommers

p you’re the best person to be here for her in this kinda situation

The knot in Paige’s stomach pulls tighter. It’s true. It’s more than true. As far as she knows, she’s the only person Dani’s told about the stuff that happened over the summer, the way her dad treated her. So, she needs to go and be there for her.

Lil Paigey

I’ll be there soon

Her hands are already moving, throwing off the blanket and fumbling for her sweatshirt on the chair by her desk.

Her heart pounds in her chest, nerves coursing through her like electricity. This is serious. This isn’t just sneaking out for something stupid, or to meet Dani for a late-night endeavor. This is… something else entirely. Paige can feel it in her bones, an icy undercurrent of fear twisting with her determination.

Her keys jingle as she grabs them off her dresser, the sound too loud in the quiet house. She tiptoes down the stairs, her feet barely making a sound against the hardwood. The living room glows with the flicker of the TV, her dad’s shadowed figure reclining on the couch.

Bob doesn’t look up at first, but as soon as Paige’s hurried footsteps hit the last stair, he pauses the TV. “Where are you going?” His voice is low, even, but there’s an edge of suspicion there.

Paige freezes, turning to face him. She’s already halfway to the door, her sweatshirt zipped up and her shoes only loosely tied. “I need to go over to Thaliah’s,” she says quickly, keeping her voice as steady as possible.

Bob raises an eyebrow. “What? It’s almost midnight, Paige. On a school night.” His tone sharpens. “And don’t forget that you’re grounded.”

The reminder hits her like a slap, but Paige doesn’t have time to care. She throws her hands up, exasperated. “No, I’m serious. I need to go.”

“You need to stay right here,” Bob counters, crossing his arms. “You’re grounded for a reason, Paige. Throwing a party and lying about it isn’t exactly something I’m going to forget in two days.”

Paige’s frustration boils over. She doesn’t have time for this. “Dad, it’s about Dani!” she snaps, her voice rising.

But Bob doesn’t flinch. He holds her gaze, unyielding. “You see Dani every day at school,” he says evenly. “She can tell you whatever it is tomorrow.”

Paige’s breath catches, and she shakes her head furiously. “No, you don’t get it! It’s—it’s about her dad!” Her voice wavers, the tears she’s been holding back starting to brim in her eyes. This is making her really fucking anxious, not something she’s very used to.

Her phone buzzes again, and she glances at it, her stomach sinking at Thaliah’s words.

Thaliah Sommers

can you pls hurry

Panic blooms in her chest, spreading like wildfire. Dani needs her. The thought makes her throat tighten, her heart clench painfully. Paige has never heard the words “Dani” and “inconsolable” in the same sentence—especially not from someone that isn’t herself, that doesn’t know about certain things. Whatever happened tonight, whatever her dad did or said, it was enough to break her.

Paige turns back to her dad, her voice cracking as she pleads, “Please, Dad. Please. I need to go.”

Bob looks at her, his brow furrowing, his mouth pressed into a line. It’s the kind of look that makes Paige’s stomach churn. He knows something is wrong—anyone would with the way she’s nearly crying—but his sigh is heavy, as if he’s already preparing for the fight. “Paige,” he starts, his tone a warning, calm but firm.

She doesn’t let him finish. She can’t. Her nerves are fraying, her heart pounding in her chest. The thought of Dani being inconsolable at Thaliah’s house, waiting for her, makes it feel like the ground is falling out from under her feet. She knows she has to say it, has to explain, or her dad will never let her leave.

“Okay, okay,” she stammers, her voice breaking as she starts to ramble, her thoughts spilling out in a rush. “Do you remember how Dani didn’t talk to me for, like, three months? And I was really depressed during all of it?”

Bob’s face softens just slightly, a flicker of concern breaking through his confusion. “Yes…” he says slowly. “I thought it was really weird. The two of you have always been inseparable.”

“Exactly!” Paige blurts, waving her arms for emphasis. The words tumble out of her, frantic, almost incoherent. “So, um, the night before I left for USA Basketball stuff, we kissed. And Dani’s dad—he found out. And he’s, like, insanely homophobic, like you wouldn’t believe, so he sent her to—” She stops, catching her breath, willing herself to say it even though the word tastes like poison. “He sent her to conversion therapy over the summer.”

Bob blinks at her, his face going blank with shock.

“That’s why she didn’t talk to me,” Paige continues, the words pouring out like water through a crack in a dam. “That’s why she was gone for so long. And when she finally came back, she wouldn’t even look at me until she eventually told me everything, and I—God, it was horrible, Dad.” Her chest heaves as she tries to catch her breath, her voice breaking again. “And now Thaliah’s saying something happened with her dad again, and Dani’s at Thaliah’s house, and apparently she’s completely inconsolable, and Thaliah’s begging me to come, and I—I need to go. Please, I’m literally begging you. Just let me go.”

She stops, out of breath, her hands shaking. Her dad just stares at her, unmoving, his expression unreadable. The silence stretches long enough that Paige feels the edges of her panic fray even more.

Finally, Bob exhales sharply, his jaw tightening. “He sent her where?” His voice is low, almost dangerous.

Paige swallows hard, feeling the weight of the truth all over again. “Conversion therapy,” she says softly, barely above a whisper.

The words hang in the air like a thunderclap. Bob’s face hardens, his lips thinning, his eyes dark with something Paige rarely sees in him: pure, unfiltered anger.

“That man,” Bob says slowly, his voice a low rumble, “is about to hear from me about this.” He stands abruptly, his movements sharp and purposeful, his focus entirely elsewhere as he steps toward the door.

“No, no—not yet!” Paige says, stepping into his path, her hands raised to stop him. She’s face-to-face with him now, their matching heights making the confrontation feel heavier, more personal. Her voice wavers as she pleads, “I need to figure out exactly what happened with Dani first. Please, Dad. Just—just let me go?”

Bob’s eyes search hers for a long moment, the fury still simmering behind his gaze. But then, with a sigh, he relents. “Okay,” he agrees, stepping back.

“Thank you!” Paige says quickly, already moving past him, her relief palpable as she rushes for the door. She bolts outside, her keys jangling in her hand.

By the time she’s in the car and speeding toward Thaliah’s, her hands are still shaking, her heart still racing. But all she can think about is Dani.

And when Paige finally pulls up to Thaliah’s house, the first thing she notices is Dani’s car parked at the curb. The sight sends a jolt through her chest—part relief, part anxiety. At least Dani’s here, at least she’s safe for now. Paige barely remembers to throw her car into park before she’s out and hurrying up the front steps.

She rings the doorbell and waits, shifting on her feet. Her hands are still shaking, and she tries to steady them by gripping the edge of her sweatshirt. The door opens, and it’s Thaliah’s mom who answers. Paige recognizes the flicker of relief that crosses her face before she even says anything.

“They’re downstairs in the basement,” Thaliah’s mom says, her voice soft but firm, like she knows whatever’s going on is serious.

Paige nods quickly, murmuring, “Thank you,” before stepping inside. The house feels familiar—she’s been here a million times before, for study sessions, movie nights, and sleepovers—but tonight it feels different. Heavier. She moves through the hallways and down the stairs like she’s on autopilot, her heart pounding harder with every step.

As she reaches the bottom of the stairs, she sees the back of Dani and Thaliah’s heads. They’re sitting on the couch, facing the TV, though it isn’t on. Thaliah has her arm draped across the back of the couch, and Dani is curled into herself, her knees pulled up to her chest.

The sound of Paige’s sneakers hitting the bottom step makes Thaliah whip her head around. She spots Paige instantly and stands, her shoulders dropping like the weight of the world has just been lifted. “Paige!” she exclaims, her voice low but insistent, like she’s been waiting for her.

At the sound of Thaliah’s voice, Dani glances over her shoulder too, and Paige’s heart clenches the moment their eyes meet. Dani looks wrecked. She’s not crying, but her eyes are red-rimmed, her mascara smudged under them in streaks. She looks tired, hollow, like whatever fight she had in her is gone. It’s the defeated expression on her face that twists something deep in Paige’s chest.

“Hey,” Paige says softly, stepping closer but keeping her movements slow and cautious. Her eyes flick between Thaliah and Dani, and she hesitates before asking, “What happened?”

Dani looks away almost immediately, burying her face against her knees as though she can’t bear to speak. Thaliah, standing beside the couch, looks down at her best friend with so much quiet concern that it makes Paige’s throat tighten. Thaliah glances back at Paige, then, her expression soft but heavy with meaning.

“I’ll leave the two of you to talk about it,” Thaliah says gently. She leans over Dani, brushing a hand across her shoulder before pressing a kiss to the top of her head. “Love you, Dan,” she murmurs.

Dani doesn’t respond. She doesn’t even lift her head, but Paige sees her hand twitch slightly, like she’s trying to acknowledge it but doesn’t have the strength.

Thaliah circles around the couch, her movements purposeful but quiet. When she reaches Paige, she stops and touches her arm lightly, leaning in to whisper, “Be gentle with her, yeah? It’s bad.” Her voice is barely audible, but the weight of her words crashes over Paige like a tidal wave.

Paige nods, her chest tightening. “Okay,” she whispers back.

Thaliah squeezes her arm, a fleeting but grounding gesture, before heading upstairs. Paige watches her go, listens to the sound of the door closing behind her, and then turns back to Dani.

The silence feels deafening now, the weight of the moment pressing down on her. Paige’s heart squeezes painfully as she takes a slow step forward, her eyes fixed on Dani’s small, crumpled figure on the couch. What did he do to you this time? she wonders, the question clawing at the edges of her mind. But she pushes it back for now. She needs to handle this right.

Paige approaches the couch cautiously, her heart pounding. She sinks onto the spot next to Dani, careful to leave a few inches of space between them. She doesn’t want to overwhelm her. Dani looks so small, curled up like she’s trying to make herself disappear.

“Hey,” Paige murmurs, leaning down a little to meet Dani’s gaze. Her voice is soft, coaxing, but there’s an edge of worry she can’t hide.

Dani turns her head, her cheek resting against her knees. Her eyes meet Paige’s, and for a fleeting moment, Paige sees something there—relief, maybe, or just a flicker of recognition. Dani gives her a small, wobbly smile, but it’s hollow, completely devoid of any real emotion. “Hey,” she mumbles back, her voice so quiet it barely registers.

Paige’s chest tightens as she watches Dani’s eyes begin to water. The sight makes her stomach churn. She reaches over slowly, brushing her thumb beneath Dani’s left eye, wiping away the streak of mascara that’s smudged there. Her hand lingers, her thumb gliding over Dani’s cheek before she cups it gently. Dani doesn’t pull away, but she doesn’t lean into the touch either.

“Dan,” Paige murmurs, her voice low and tender. She searches Dani’s face, trying to will her to open up. “Talk to me, baby.”

That seems to break whatever fragile dam Dani’s been holding up. Her lips tremble, and then she’s crying—really crying. It’s not just the silent tears from earlier; this is raw, uncontrollable, chest-heaving sobs. Paige sighs softly and pulls Dani into her, letting her fall against her chest.

Dani buries her face in Paige’s neck, and Paige feels the wet heat of her tears soaking into her skin. She wraps her arms around Dani’s back, holding her close, pulling her even tighter when Dani lets out a particularly gut-wrenching sob. She’s practically in Paige’s lap now, her knees pressing against Paige’s thighs as Paige strokes her hair in slow, soothing motions.

“It’s okay,” Paige murmurs against Dani’s temple, though she doesn’t know if it is. She doesn’t know if it ever will be.

Dani’s sobs quiet just enough for her to choke out words. “He found out about us.”

Paige freezes. The words hit her like a punch to the gut, though deep down, she’s not surprised. She’d had a feeling, from the moment Thaliah texted her, that this had to do with either their relationship or Dani’s sexuality. She takes a slow breath, letting the words sink in, before resuming her gentle strokes through Dani’s hair. “Okay,” Paige hums softly, coaxing her to continue.

Dani sniffles, her voice shaky and broken. “He saw Beau’s dad… and he thought we were still together, so he went and talked to him. And then Beau’s dad told him that he and I had been broken up for months. And I guess Beau told him that I left him for a girl.” Dani’s voice cracks, and she lets out a bitter laugh that turns into another sob.

Paige’s stomach knots tighter, but she stays quiet, letting Dani keep going.

“My dad came home,” Dani continues, her words tumbling out faster now, like she can’t stop them. “He looked around my room, and he found one of your sweatshirts… and a note you’d written. And that picture of us from Friday.” Dani’s voice breaks completely this time, and Paige feels her heart twist painfully. “And he—he was so mad.”

Paige presses her lips to Dani’s hair, closing her eyes against the flood of emotions rising in her chest. “You could’ve called me,” she murmurs, her voice thick with guilt.

Dani lets out another sob, clutching Paige’s shirt tightly. “I would’ve,” she chokes out, “but he broke my phone. Threw it across the room.”

That makes Paige pull back slightly, just enough to look at Dani’s face. Her hands slide down to Dani’s sides, holding her gently but firmly. Paige thought this was just a verbal fight—like always. But him doing that is different, scarier. It makes her even more worried than before. “Is that all he did?” Paige asks, her voice carefully measured. “Just break your phone?”

Dani hesitates. The pause is just long enough to make Paige’s heart hammer in her chest.

“Dani,” Paige says, her voice breaking. The name comes out like a plea, like a desperate attempt to pull the truth from her.

Dani finally looks at Paige, her eyes filling with fresh tears. “He told me he was gonna send me back to camp,” she mumbles, her voice barely audible. “To conversion therapy. Whatever you want to call it.” Her shoulders shake as she exhales a shuddering breath. “And I fought back—told him I couldn’t do it, didn’t wanna go. And he didn’t like that.”

Paige swallows hard, her throat dry. She thinks she knows where this is going, but she still asks, her voice trembling, “What did he do, Dani?”

Dani shrugs, like she’s trying to downplay it, but her eyes betray her. They’re swimming with tears, and when she speaks, her voice cracks again. “He hit me.”

The words hang in the air like a physical blow, and Paige feels her whole body tense. Her hands tighten on Dani’s sides, not enough to hurt but enough to ground herself. Her breath catches, and for a moment, she doesn’t trust herself to speak.

Then, finally, she whispers, “Oh, Dani,” her voice breaking completely. She pulls Dani back into her arms, holding her as tightly as she can without hurting her, her own tears beginning to well up. She doesn’t know what to say, doesn’t know how to fix this. All she can do is hold her and hope it’s enough, even though she knows it won’t be.

Paige keeps holding Dani as she sobs into her shoulder, her whole body trembling like she’s been holding this in for far too long. Paige’s chest tightens with each choked sob, her throat burning from the effort of holding back her own tears. The only thing grounding her right now is Dani in her arms—and the sharp, unrelenting hatred boiling in her chest for the man who did this to her.

She’s never hated anyone more than Dani’s father. Never. Not in her entire life. The thought of him makes her blood run hot, her fists clenching involuntarily. Because how could anyone hurt Dani? Sweet, kind, radiant Dani, who’s never done anything but try to survive in a world that’s never made space for her. Paige wants to storm over to that house right now, face him herself, but she knows she can’t.

What she can do is make sure Dani never has to see him again.

“You’re gonna stay with me and my dad, okay?” Paige whispers, her voice resolute. She presses a kiss into Dani’s hair, her lips brushing against the crown of her head. “I’m not letting you go back in that house, Dan. No way.”

Dani pulls back slightly, her tear-streaked face turning up to meet Paige’s. She’s shaking her head before Paige even finishes speaking, her eyes wide and filled with worry. “Paige, I—I can’t just intrude like that,” Dani stammers, her voice hoarse and cracked. “That’s not—It’s just unrealistic.”

Paige shakes her head right back, her determination unwavering. “No,” she says firmly, her hands holding Dani’s shoulders like she’s trying to physically keep her from running away from the idea. “You heard what your dad said—he’ll send you back. And I won’t let it happen. I swear to God, Dani. I won’t let it happen.”

There’s a silence between them, heavy and charged. Dani’s eyes search Paige’s face, and Paige doesn’t waver, her jaw set, her expression steady. She doesn’t care what it takes. Dani is not going back to that house.

Finally, Paige sighs, her grip on Dani’s shoulders loosening slightly. Her voice softens as she says, “My dad knows.”

Dani stiffens. Paige feels it, the way Dani’s muscles tense under her hands. Her eyes widen just a fraction more, her lips parting slightly like she’s about to say something but can’t find the words.

“I had to tell him tonight,” Paige explains, her voice steady but quiet. “He never would’ve let me leave otherwise. He knows about the camp. About your dad.”

Paige braces herself, half-expecting Dani to lash out, to yell at her for breaking the promise they made—the one where Paige swore she wouldn’t tell anyone about the camp. Dani had been so adamant, so insistent that no one could ever find out. But as Paige watches Dani’s face, she doesn’t see anger. She doesn’t see betrayal.

Instead, Dani looks… thoughtful. Her brow furrows slightly, her lips pressing together in a way that looks more like worry than frustration.

So Paige continues, feeling a flicker of hope. “He was so mad when I told him, Dani. He wanted to go give your dad a piece of his mind right then and there. I had to convince him to let me come here instead.” She pauses, her thumbs brushing against Dani’s arms in soft, soothing motions. “I promise you, he’d much rather you stay with us and be safe than have you over there. You’re like a second daughter to him—you know that.”

Dani doesn’t say anything right away. Her eyes drop, her gaze unfocused as she processes Paige’s words. Paige can practically see the wheels turning in her head, the way her mind is working overtime to reconcile everything Paige just told her.

“I just… I don’t want to be a burden,” Dani whispers finally, her voice so quiet Paige has to strain to hear it.

“You won’t be,” Paige says immediately, her tone firm and certain. “You’ve never been a burden to me or to him. You know that.”

Dani’s eyes flicker up to meet hers again, and Paige sees the doubt there, the fear that’s been drilled into her by years of living in that house. Paige feels her heart clench again, but she keeps her voice steady, her hands gentle as she cups Dani’s face.

“You’re not going back there,” Paige says softly, but there’s steel in her voice. “Not now. Not ever.”

Dani blinks rapidly, her tears threatening to spill over again, and Paige brushes them away before they can fall. Dani’s lip trembles, and she looks like she wants to argue, but she doesn’t. She just nods, barely, like she’s too tired to fight anymore.

Relief floods through Paige, but it’s tempered by the ache in her chest, the overwhelming need to protect Dani from everything she’s been through—and everything she’s still scared of. Paige leans forward, pressing her forehead gently against Dani’s, her hands still cradling her face.

“We’ll figure it out, Dan,” Paige murmurs. “I promise. We’ll figure it out together.”

And for the first time all night, Dani doesn’t argue. She just closes her eyes and lets Paige hold her, her breath hitching softly as she leans into the only safe place she has left.

THEY STAY at Thaliah’s house that night, Thaliah’s mom bustling around with warm reassurance, pulling out an air mattress and piling it with blankets and pillows until it’s soft and inviting. Paige murmurs a quiet “thank you” as the woman pats her shoulder gently before retreating upstairs.

Dani hasn’t said much since they agreed to stay, her eyes rimmed red and her voice a little hoarse. She stands off to the side, clutching the borrowed sweatpants and oversized T-shirt Thaliah gave her like they’re a lifeline.

When the mattress is ready, Paige takes Dani’s hand, threading their fingers together and giving a reassuring squeeze. Dani follows her lead without protest, crawling onto the air mattress after Paige and letting her guide them both under the blankets.

They settle into the space slowly, Dani lying on her side and curling into herself like she’s trying to make herself smaller. Paige isn’t having that. She shifts closer, wrapping her arms around Dani and tugging her gently into her chest. Dani resists for a second, her body stiff and hesitant, but then she sighs and gives in, letting herself melt into Paige’s hold.

Paige nestles her chin against the top of Dani’s head, her hand running slow, soothing circles over her back. Dani’s knees are drawn up, her body curled tightly against Paige’s. Paige shifts her legs around Dani’s, tangling them together as much as the narrow mattress will allow. Her other arm rests beneath Dani’s neck, cradling her head and keeping her close.

For the first time all night, Dani seems to relax, her breathing evening out as she lets the exhaustion take over. It doesn’t take long for her to fall asleep, her face tucked into Paige’s collarbone, her breath soft and steady against Paige’s skin.

But Paige doesn’t sleep.

She stares up at the ceiling, her eyes tracing the faint outlines of shadows cast by the streetlights outside. Her mind is an endless loop of everything Dani told her tonight—every word, every broken sob, all of it.

It makes her stomach churn, her jaw clenching in helpless anger. She doesn’t know how someone can treat their child like that. She doesn’t know how Dani’s father can even look at her and not see what Paige sees: someone so good, so kind, so deserving of love. The thought that he could hurt Dani—his own daughter, the girl Paige loves more than anything—nearly sends the blonde into a frenzy.

But then Paige looks down at Dani, sleeping soundly in her arms, and the anger softens into something else. Relief. Gratitude.

Because Dani’s safe now. She’s not in that house. She’s not alone. Paige tightens her hold slightly, pressing a soft kiss into Dani’s hair.

It’s not enough—not nearly enough—but for tonight, it’ll have to be.

DANI STANDS on the sidewalk with Paige and Bob, the three of them staring at the house that used to feel like home. Now it feels like something else entirely—something hollow, suffocating, and cruel.

Dani hugs herself tightly, trying to ignore the way her chest tightens at the sight of it. She hears Bob’s steady voice beside her, low but firm, a grounding force she hadn’t realized she needed.

“In and out,” Bob says, his hand a reassuring weight on her shoulder. “You get everything you need, and that’s it. You never have to go back in there after this.”

Dani nods, her throat too tight to speak.

The morning had been a blur. Paige drove them to her house, Dani’s car still parked at Thaliah’s with the promise to retrieve it later. She barely had time to register the familiarity of the Bueckers’ front porch before Paige’s dad had pulled her into a hug—tight, warm, and safe. It was the kind of hug she hadn’t felt in years, and she melted into it, clinging to him like she was afraid she might disappear.

Paige must’ve told him everything already. Dani didn’t know how much detail Paige gave him, but it was enough to bring a protective light to Bob’s eyes when he looked at her. Enough for him to immediately agree that Dani could stay with them for as long as she needed. The relief she felt was overwhelming, but it was fleeting. Because now they were here, and she had to face the remnants of last night.

The front door creaks slightly as Bob opens it. The house is silent, but it feels like the walls are holding their breath. Dani steps in cautiously, every nerve on edge despite knowing her dad’s at work.

Bob glances at her, his tone gentle but insistent. “Go upstairs. I’ll stay down here, just in case.” He bends to pick up her photography bag from where it’s still lying on the floor from last night, slinging it onto his shoulder. “You two just get what you need. We’ll be out of here in no time.”

Dani nods again before she and Paige head up the stairs. Each step feels heavier than the last, the air thick with memories she doesn’t want to revisit. Paige is close behind her, her hand brushing lightly against Dani’s back in silent support.

When they reach her room, Paige touches her arm gently. “Let’s make this quick,” she says softly.

They grab two suitcases from the closet, Dani’s hands shaking slightly as she unzips them. Paige doesn’t waste any time, moving to the dresser and pulling out clothes, folding them neatly before stacking them in one of the suitcases. Dani busies herself with the bookshelf, grabbing journals, books, and anything else that feels important.

Her hands hover over a small stuffed bear, one her mom gave her when she was a kid. She picks it up hesitantly, running her fingers over the soft fur before placing it in the suitcase.

Then she sees the photo.

It’s a picture of her and her mom, taken on a trip to the lake years ago. They’re both laughing, her mom’s arm wrapped around her shoulders. Dani picks it up, holding it close to her chest. For a moment, she can’t move. Her mind spirals into the what ifs. What if her mom were still alive? Would any of this have happened? She doesn’t think so.

Paige’s voice pulls her back again. “Dan?”

Dani blinks, glancing over at Paige, who’s watching her with careful eyes. “I’m okay,” Dani murmurs, but she doesn’t let go of the photo. Instead, she keeps it tucked under her arm, making sure it’s secure.

They keep packing, working quickly and efficiently. Paige moves with purpose, her focus unwavering as she gathers Dani’s things. Dani feels a lump rise in her throat at the sight of her—Paige, who shouldn’t have to be here, shouldn’t have to be dealing with any of this, but is anyway.

When the suitcases are full, Dani takes one last look around the room. It feels emptier now, stripped of anything that made it hers. A part of her feels relief, but another part feels a strange sense of loss.

Her childhood is over.

Maybe that’s a good thing.

Paige notices her hesitation and steps closer, placing a hand on her arm. “Ready?”

Dani nods, even though she’s not sure she is.

They head back downstairs, where Bob is waiting with the rest of Dani’s things. He smiles encouragingly. “Got everything?”

“Yeah,” Dani says, her voice quiet but steady.

Bob takes one of the suitcases from her, leading the way to the door. As they step outside, Dani feels the weight in her chest start to lift, just a little. She glances at Paige, who gives her a small, reassuring smile.

Things are gonna be a lot different now.

But, Dani thinks, they may also be better.

[helpfandom]

I saw the yandere! Plat! Kraang post and I LOVE it!! It’s so well written! Could you do a continuation if you haven’t? Have a good night/day!!

@yanderefangirl @devilgirl101 @ladydoe8 <--- Sorry about Kevin.

@kobiisworld

Part1:!

952 words.

Continuing off of the scenario, seeing as it's part headcanons and scenario.

Something feels... wrong. Although the kraang monsters have turned off the lights and, this is new, given you a blanket and soft place to sleep, the ability to sleep is nigh impossible with the feeling of eyes crawling on you. Barely opening your eyes to flip to the other side of your body, the bot that's your current watcher stomps over to you.

"That which is known as 'sleeping' is commenced during that which is known as 'bedtime' or 'night time', an expanse of time in darkness." Groaning, and covering your head, "y'know, you don't need to use so many words just to say 'go back to sleep'." The droid steps back, "I give what is known as apologies." You wave it away. "s'fine. Stop watching me sleep though." He steps away methodically and sits in the corner, his eyes aren't on you anymore, but the feeling is still there. Fully opening your eyes now, you can see several kraang outside of the cell door with something that looks like a camera from your dimension clicking almost constantly.

Quickly flipping back over so you can't face them, clicking still playing outside and inside of your mind. Your stomach turning. They've been watching you, taking pictures and god knows what else. How many months have they been doing this?

Suddenly, a thought pops into your head. How long have you been in the kraang dimension earth time, how long is kraang time? It had been 200 kraang days, but how long is a kraang day? Is it equal to a normal earth day, or is it shorter? You can't trust your biological clock because of the stuff they put into at first, so you can't use that...

Hours go by, or is it really hours? go by trying to equate kraang time and earth time, and the lights within your cell flicker to life. The kraang droid uncrouches from his position, if he were human it would be considered 'springing up from his position', but he's not human. How did you ever once consider this human?

"Human. That which is-" "breakfast is the part of the routine happening now. I GET IT!" You yell the last part of what you said at him, leading to a step back from him being a little shocked at the fact that you yelled. You hadn't done that before. Something happens and the droid twitches and electricity comes out before dropping to the floor, the actual kraang brain coming out and rushing out the door.

You sit down on the floor, knees curling up and resting against your chest. Trying to calm down is an almost fruitless endeavor, but it for some reason works on your breathing. Taking slow, deep breaths and you calm yourself from your anger. A differing droid shows up and it's one of the human looking ones, like Kevin. Kevin was one of the better ones. He would give you extra food and tell you jokes he heard while pretending to be human. "Human. You have upset kraang. This hurts our feelings and as such, no food for the first meal." You glare at him, although nothing changes with his face, facial features wise. A couple of moments and then the droid changes position, putting it's arms behind his back. "But, Kraang sub-prime has informed us that humans don't like being confined, and although those that are-" It seems to struggle to speak, although it is using less words- "autistic do enjoy rigid schedules, it appears as we were informed by Kraang sub-prime, that ours is too rigid for humans. As such, we apologize and shall give more freedom. That shall be tomorrow, however, as you still upset Kraang."

You nod, swallowing thick saliva. "Alright. I understand." He, the droid, nods and then walks out of the room, although positioned right outside of the window to the room. You pout, and then grab the blanket and lay back down. It's been around 3 months that you've been here. Why haven't the turtles come back?

Falling back asleep now that there is no feeling of eyes crawling on your skin, you wake up to the darkness of the room, and the droid still outside the window. Swallowing your spit, your mouth is dry and tastes weird. Going up to the window and knocking on it, he turns around and sees you, then going to the door and entering inside the room.

"The lights are off because it is night time in Kraang world. We did not force you to wake when it was day time." You nod. "Yeah. I noticed." It nods and then waits. "Is there something that Kraang may get you, food or water? You are no longer permitted outside the room for the remainder of the week as punishment." You nod again, makes sense to you, although completely unfair. "Was that a nod of understanding or that you needed something?" You blink forcefully and can hear your eyelids make contact with the other and then answer.

"Water, please." You pause between water and please as you tacked the last word on, only remembering to be more polite as it may get the week over with faster.

He leaves, leaving you alone in the room, and someone else takes his place, a purple mechanical droid in place of a humanoid one. Looking closer, the way that the droid moved was more fluid, more human, so to speak. Kind of like Kevin. The droid looks around and then walks inside, a smile then breaking on the kraang brain's face. He steps closer and the voice that speaks is too similar to simply be a coincidence, too familiar to not be a friend.

"Kevin?"

[likeawildthing]

As a recovering GirlBoss, I’m officially breaking up with my post-Christmas planning routine:

26- all Christmas decorations down

27- take stock of current year

28- values assessment

29- SMART goals for upcoming year with 6-8 life categories, fully planned by quarter

30-31 fully form this in my bullet journal while watching The life changing Magic of Tidying Up

Jan 1: Bring. It. On. Whole house, health, and work reset.

Sound exhausting? It was!

I don’t look on this era of my life (2016-2022) with cringe. Quite the opposite! That girl radically transformed her life from a broke, traumatized, single mom, community college dropout to a financially stable, creative, happy, MBA graduate with her dream job.

I am so grateful for her drive, determination, and passion. I am so proud of her.

And also? I’m so relieved I can no longer relate.

As someone whose core values are consistently curiosity and growth, I’m willing to adapt and change over time, shedding practices that no longer serve me in favor of those that do.

In 2022, at my post-graduation dinner, I signed a napkin promising my friends I would slow down. And I did, immediately scaling back my volunteerism and commitments in favor of radical rest and the pursuit of creative endeavors.

That winter, I made a paper chain to count down towards the winter Solstice in an effort to thwart the post-time change blues. When it worked, I adopted warmth, coziness, and light into my winter routine. Candles. Electric blankets. A soup a week. I also adapted my speed, just as we have done for most of our time on this earth. It also worked!

Since then, naturally, I’ve slowly been attuning my life to the seasons.

Spring — renewal, garden, waking up. Summer — enjoying time outdoors, being active and social.

Fall — abundance and gratitude, preparation for the holidays.

Winter is now a time of peace, joy, and reflection. I close my curtains at four, intentionally, and turn on my lamps, hit Netflix fireplace, and hang with a craft on my lap and good music in the background.

But I was still clinging to that last vestige of my GirlBoss era—my post-holiday planning session.

On the 26th, I couldn’t bring myself to take down the tree. She’s gorgeous and I love her! She’s staying up until January 6th this year. With the new job, I can’t take the entire week off. That’s ok! I still started my planning process.

No buy 2025.

Nervous system regulation.

A holistic health plan.

Glow up 2025!

Bucket list travel items.

To read, watch, and listen liste.

WIP creative projects.

Home to do list.

Dopamine list

Dot grid notebook ordered.

Action steps! Quarterly plans! Stationary!

And this morning, with my bullet journal still unfinished, I tried to reconcile stacks of paper with notes, dozens of screen shots, and multiple notes apps.

I felt frazzled, overwhelmed, and defeated. Why couldn’t I pick a path forward? Why couldn’t I even start a January page. Planning is my jam! As an ADHDer, it’s practically my calling.

So I had to ask myself…why am I doing this? If this is something I truly want to do, that aligns with my values, then it shouldn’t be this hard.

My time of renewal has transitioned to spring; so shouldn’t that be my time of planning for the new year? Isn’t it a little crazy to have fifteen major life goals this year? 2024 just wrapped up, so shouldn’t I take time to reflect on it, take stock, and truly understand what I want to take into my next year? Shouldn’t I take time to recover from the holidays? Would the world end if I stay slow and steady and take this slow season to fill my metaphorical well?

No, it will not.

So that’s what I’m doing.

My January calendar is noted with intentional social engagements and creative time. I put my goals away and instead loaded a bunch of reflective journal prompts to work through in the next month. Or two. Or three!

It feels vulnerable and wrong, not walking into the New Year with a Plan. But the bigger part of me thinks my lowercase plan—to rest, reflect, and connect with my friends and family, is going to work just fine.

So my hope for you is that you are at peace with where you’re at. And if you aren’t at peace, that you take the time to understand why, and that you’re willing to adjust course.

If you need a GirlBoss era, l will cheer you on, every step of the way! If you have a few goals, I hope you stick with them!

But if you, like me, want to stay slow, recover, and savor the season?

Come and sit.

How would you like your tea?

Ref pics (the napkin, my tree):

[lemmylemons]

Random, useless Tekken headcanons, this time not at 6 am, but still, part 2.

• Xiaoyu and Jin cuddle obviously, but he's very awkward and clunky about it, and she's SOOO clingy (he doesn't care at all, he loves her so much).

• Kazuya had a childhood blanket that he's hidden away somewhere. He had it as a baby and after Kazumi died, it was his clutch. Until he got older and Heihachi tried to make him throw it out, so he lied and kept it very hidden - and eventually, as a 50 year old, he had it tucked away, safely somewhere, and sometimes brought it out in his giant shoe room, just to have some privacy and a little support with it. (I know it sounds weird, but I love giving my comfort characters as much comfort as possible 😭)

• Adding onto childhood endeavors with my favs, I think Jun used to crochet and knit all the time as a child, to pass the time :(. But when she started going out into the forest more, greeting the animals, she was knitting for them!! She would make scarves or little blankets and cuddle up with them all, and I still think she does. She and Kazuya go out into the hills or forest and she knits or crochets, while he tries to be gentle with the animals, and that's their downtime...

• Bruce Irvin and Anna Williams are the only 2 people Kazuya considers friends, and even then, he doesn't like that term, he considers them 'close acquaintances'... He's been out to restaurants and bars with them many times before. He and Anna Williams have a platonic relationship - even if it seems she's flirting with him all the time, I believe that she is his best friend and it's the like joking flirting kind of thing.

• Feeding off of that one, Tekken 2: Jun and Anna were besties!!! They met and would gossip and go shopping, and I hope Anna returns in 8 so I can see my girls together again.

• Bruce Irvin's bisexual with a heavy male lean. I love him, please ALSO come back to 8...

• Lee and Lars practically took Jin under their wing, but I believe Jin lives primarily with Lee - and Lee loves to baby his 'most excellent nephew' a bit. Not like baby-baby, Jin's a grown man, but give him a little comfort. Like if Jin's having an off day (which I think happens a lot, just thinking about how he is with the Mishima side, or him thinking about Jun and missing her). Lee sits him down, makes him tea or a meal and just holds him or sits with him for company... (I LOVE UNCLE LEE HEADCANONS.)

• This is more of an interpretation, but still a headcanon: I think Reina's relation to the Hachijo clan, is that she's a distant cousin of Kazuya. Because Kazuya is technically a part of that clan, as he's Kazumi's kid. So I think maybe one of her siblings had a baby before Heihachi killed them, and he took Reina in... Good to know he doesn't kill infants but will throw a barely past toddler off a cliff 🤔

• Steve Fox isn't trying to get Nina to be his mom, which is what I see a lot of, it's hard to explain... It's him trying to redeem her as a person, not a mom. But I do think he cares deeply for Nina...

• Adding onto that, Anna found out she was his aunt and took him shopping because she felt bad...

• Jin used to sleep on Jun's floor as a teenager. Like she'd be asleep, and he'd come in with his blankets and pillows, throw them on the ground and sleep in there, just to feel his mama's presence.

• Kazuya and Lee obviously treated one another as rivals growing up, but I think they had a trustful bond as teenagers. Like, if one had a secret that would either get them killed or they could NEVER spill around Heihachi, the other would keep it for eternity. They HATED one another, but they were both trying to survive the same threat.

• Lars takes time every morning to style each and every point in his hair. Like the Mishimas got crazy hair, but I know damn well they STYLE it like that. As proven by Heihachi having his down in Tekken 8 -

• ADDING ONTO THAT: THEIR HAIR IS LIKE THAT BECAUSE OF THEIR WEIRD POWERS OF ELECTRICITY. They style it like that because it always finds a way to stick up...

• Paul Phoenix is only that stupid because he was hit on the head so many times. Not saying he was a genius before, but he's got some bad brain damage. Like he's not super stupid, he's just... Got some troubles.

• Bryan Fury has a super, mega crush on Dragunov, nothing can change my mind. 'Deeply admires', okay bud...

• Dragunov's favorite color is hot pink, that's why he collects the hot pink army vehicles. Love a Barbie kinda guy. I also believe Dragunov wears lipstick and eyeliner, there is no way his lips are naturally almost black...

[cardcaptorsakura96]

Finding Each Other-Chapter 2

Fandom: Superman, Batman, Shazam, and Wonder Woman

Characters: Bruce Wayne, Clark Kent, Lois Lane, Dick Grayson, Diana Prince, Billy Batson, Jason Todd, Tim Drake, Kara Zor El, Damian Wayne, Cassandra Cain, Alfred Pennyworth, Lex Luthor, Jonathan Kent, Connor Kent

Summary: Clark Kent always knew he wanted a family. He just always thought it would be traditional like his parents. Little did he know that destiny had something different in store for him.

Chapter 1

Clark flew to the Gotham City Culture Museum Friday night in record time. He barely made it on time because he wanted to make sure to get Lois a care package after her procedure was done. He wanted to make sure she was comfortable and had stuff to do since she was always one that is on the go. He got her several murder mysteries that she had been wanting to read but never had the time for, a bubble bath kit, a box of caramel chocolates, and an electric blanket. Lois looked all cozy when he left her. As he landed, he thought about what his game plan was for tonight. Clark tapped his chin as he quickly exited the alley he landed in and headed up the museum steps. 

Maybe I could hang out with Lois later tonight depending on how long this thing lasts. 

The museum was supposed to give a presentation, followed by food, and then let the guest walk through their main exhibit: City of Atlantis. According to the notes Perry gave Lois, Bruce was supposed to be making his grand debut with his son there. Clark thought it would be easy to spot a single dad with his son since usually, these late-night museum events tended to have mostly adults. However, Clark was startled when he walked in and saw numerous of the upcoming and wealthy with their families browsing around. 

Clark raised an eyebrow. 

If Bruce is really here with his kid tonight, the setup is quite clever. Since there have been no recent photos of Bruce since he was 15 and no photos of his new child, they could easily blend into the crowd without anyone knowing.

Clark sighed while rolling his eyes.

This is a reporter’s worst nightmare. There are at least 500 people here tonight. No way I am finding Wayne without him or the boy doing or saying something flashy. 

Clark shook his head and was able to go to a table and take a seat when he heard someone said, “Surprised to see you in a place like this.”

Clark froze for a second when he heard that voice. It was a voice he was hoping to never hear from again. He sighed as he turned around and saw his ex Lex Luthor standing behind him. 

Of course, my ex would be here when I am out on assignment. 

Lex and Clark used to date when they were in college. As it edged towards their graduation, they discovered that they had fundamental differences in how they wanted to spend the rest of their lives. Clark had always wanted kids. He dreamed of being even half the man his Pa was. However, Lex absolutely despised kids. He thought they were vile creatures. Clark never understood that because everyone was a kid once. Clark asked Lex once how he was able to survive childhood without interacting with any kids. He said that his parents had him home-schooled because his intellect was far superior to the kids in his age group. That should have been a red flag for Clark, but for some reason, Clark hoped that Lex was just kidding. 

However, Clark learned quickly that wasn’t the case. When they graduated, Lex just wanted Clark to follow him to Luthor Corp and work in his father’s company. Clark thought about it since they did have a print division, however, Lex wanted Clark to only work as his assistant while Lex continued to build up his own career. Clark wanted to support Lex in his career endeavors, but he didn’t feel that he should have to put his aspirations on hold for Lex to soar. However, Lex wanted Clark’s devotion only to him. Clark broke up with him after that which Lex didn’t take too well. He blackballed Clark in about every newspaper market except for one: The Daily Planet in Metropolis. The only reason why Perry White, the head of the paper, took a chance on Clark was because he hated Lex’s guts, and Lex couldn’t blackmail Perry after recently losing the libel lawsuit with the Daily Planet. Ever since then, Clark avoided him like the plague. Luckily, Clark was always hesitant about sharing his powers with Lex and he didn’t start his superhero duties until after they broke up. He can’t imagine what Lex would do if he had that information hanging over his head.

Clark sighed and said, “You know that I have always been a fan of museums”. 

Lex smirked and said, “Oh, so that is why you are here. I assume that the insignificant paper….hmmm…what’s it called?… The Daily Planet sent you here on assignment. I know you like museums but invitations to this event only went out to high-ranking families that are honestly out of your wage bracket.”

Clark was fuming internally but he schooled his face to remain passive. 

Lex just wants a rise out of me to boost his ego.

Lex came closer and tried to caress his face, but Clark recoiled back which caused Lex’s smirk to falter, but quickly came back on his face. 

“Don’t be like that love. Obviously, your career choices aren’t panning out if they are just having you go to assignments like these. I remember you saying you wanted to use your writing and interviewing skills to change the world. If they were just going to have you do this drivel, you should have just come with me to Luthor Corp. I could have found better things to do with your time.”

Clark narrowed his eyes at Lex. 

The nerve of this asshole to think my life can only be better because of him. I don’t have time to play these mind games. 

Clark took a deep breath. He could be honest about being here to cover for a friend. However, he knew that Lex wouldn’t believe any of that. He would have to do something that he wasn’t very proud of but it would be effective to get Lex off his back.

Clark smirked and asked, “Who said anything about me being on assignment? I am here for pleasure.”

Lex scoffed and asked, “You’re here for pleasure. I find that interesting. Since the paper didn’t send you and I know you aren’t rich, please pray tell how you were able to get into the event tonight?”

Clark chuckled and said, “I do have a life outside of my job, Lex. I am here with my fiancé and his kid browsing around. They went to grab seats since I was running late. Traffic from Metropolis to Gotham was brutal.”

Lex looked at Clark startled. Clark smirked. 

It never occurred to him that I could move on without him. 

The lights started flashing indicating that the presentation was about to start in a minute. 

Clark flashed a bright smile and said, “Well, it was interesting speaking with you, but I should be going. I don’t want my fiancé and his kid to worry.”

With that, Clark quickly walked away leaving a dumbfounded Lex behind. Clark hated being petty and knew that his Ma would frown on behavior like that, but the look on Lex’s face was worth it.

Read the rest on AO3

[wittywallflower]

Catwinter Week One

prompts chosen for Week One:

1. Decorating the tree/office 3. knitting/crochet (barely there after i cut some stuff i didn't like) 4. Christmas lights 

❄️

The Dead Boy Detective Agency office was unrecognizable. 

It would be inaccurate to say it had never seen festive decor. One did not share a space with Charles Rowland without experiencing some measure of whimsy and fun. Charles’s family didn’t celebrate the holiday but there was always some shiny bit of festive something-or-other that caught his eye. 

And the addition of the ladies had brought a new set of holiday traditions to the mix, and both Crystal and Niko had very colorful (loud) tastes. Jenny preferred dark colors but hadn't been able to muster the majority vote for a gothic Christmas tree. (Though they did agree to use her taxidermy raven as a tree topper once Niko had been allowed to decorate it with a little scarf and Santa hat she crafted out of felt.) 

Niko thought that when it came to pretty decorations more was better, Crystal had far too much money available to spend on the endeavor, and Charles shamelessly egged them both on until it looked like an explosion of Christmas.

So. A glittering tree sat in one corner, festooned with baubles and knickknacks that weren’t strictly ornaments per se, but if a string could be tied ‘round any small object it was considered fair game. Evergreen garlands were swagged above all the doors and tiny little miniature wreaths hung on all the door handles.

From the ceiling numerous paper snowflakes were hanging suspended with invisible threads. It had been a pleasant activity for the group, cutting them out. The Night Nurse had even been persuaded to pause her duties to join them briefly. Her first attempt at the simple craft had been an utter failure falling apart into no less than two hundred pieces when she tried to open it. Then she had scowled fiercely through her second attempt, working with intensity for a full ten minutes before revealing possibly the most beautiful piece of art that has ever been created from a folded-up piece of printer paper. After apparently mastering the task, the Night Nurse sniffed in pretended disdain at the silliness of it before going back to what she considered more worthy efforts. Her snowflake got pride of place though, hanging just in front of Edwin’s desk where he could see it with a small glance upward. 

Throw pillows and soft blankets covered with designs of reindeer and snowmen and yet more snowflakes were scattered about the furniture. The slim wall-mounted television (which Crystal had insisted was an essential appliance back when Edwin had tried to object to its presence in the main room) was displaying a video that cleverly made the whole unit look like a cozy lit fireplace. Edwin had yet to locate the ‘blue teeth speaker’ that was playing music in the background; he decided he didn't need to start hunting for it until the songs became too cloying or bubbly. 

The crowning glory of it all was the lights. Strings and strings of fairy lights were everywhere. Niko hadn’t stopped until she’d run out of outlets for all the plugs and Jenny had vetoed the addition of any more extension cords. And when that still wasn’t enough, battery-powered candles found their way onto every flat surface, flickering their own counterpoint to the twinkling of the electric lights. The effect within was like the whole room was gently sparkling, Edwin couldn't imagine what it must look like from the outside. 

The glow radiating out of the window was enough to illuminate the figure standing on the fire escape. Normally the black hair and leather would have blended into the shadows of the dark night, but they gleamed dully in the light instead. Golden eyes flashed back a much sharper reflection.

Edwin pressed his lips together around a smile and turned towards the window. 

“Oh, wait, wait!” Niko bounced over to Edwin and held out a knit cap. The yarn looked soft, and was the same color as Edwin’s eyes (as he had been informed, being unable to see himself in a mirror or photograph), and was topped with a jaunty little yarn bobble that Edwin could not imagine himself wearing, but knew very well he would be doing just that. And sooner than expected. 

“For you!” Niko beamed. “I know ghost ears can’t actually get cold, so you don’t really need it. But it would have been rude to make gifts for my human friends, and not do anything for my ghost friends. You and Charles are very important to me too!”

Edwin adored Niko. 

“Thank you, Niko.”

Edwin didn’t get a chance to inspect or compliment Niko’s knitting before she went up on her toes and tugged the hat securely onto Edwin’s head. 

“Just wanted to make sure you are all bundled up before you step outside,” she said with a tiny smile. 

Crystal was grinning where she sat on the sofa. Charles was confused for only a moment before he clocked the visitor through the window. Charles rolled his eyes but reached for his bag laying nearby, fishing around in it until he came out with a thick sheepskin coat. He passed it off to Edwin with only a half-hearted mutter about stupid cats not wearing their fur coats when it's cold, as he turned back to Crystal. 

Edwin couldn't hold back his smile now as he moved towards the window, phasing directly through the wall to step out onto the fire escape. 

The Cat King’s eye’s flickered to Edwin’s, and the corner of his scarred lip lifted in a smile before his gaze was drawn back through the window.

Edwin stepped closer, close enough to notice those normally-slit pupils were now blown wide, only a sliver of gold visible at the edges. Thomas was rapt, absolutely mesmerized by the twinkling lights inside. His mouth hung slightly open, jaw slack. If he had furry ears at the moment, Edwin had no doubt they would be twitching away adorably. 

He admired the soft wonder on the feline monarch’s face for a long moment before he stepped closer still and reached out to drape the coat in his hand around the shorter man’s shoulders. The leather jacket was very stylish, but could not possibly be warm enough on its own.

The Cat King dragged his eyes back to Edwin again as the ghost took the coat’s lapels, drawing it close around the other man. Each arched an eyebrow at the other. 

“I wouldn’t want you to catch a chill.” Edwin said, primly, because he knew it amused Thomas when he acted like an ‘Edwardian fussbudget’.

“Such a gentleman.” Thomas’s tone was teasing but warm. Warmer than the temperature of the air around them, which he now seemed to notice with a full body shiver. 

Though he had no body heat to share, Edwin nonetheless wrapped an arm around the Cat King’s shoulders and drew him close. Pressed up against his side, Thomas’s head tipped in to rest against his shoulder. 

“It’s no doubt warmer indoors,” Edwin suggested.

“In a moment. It's nice out here. With you,” the Cat King murmured back softly. 

The ever-present bustle of London seemed to quiet, just a little. Enough to be ignored by the  men standing in each other’s arms, wreathed in festive glow, enjoying a moment just for the two of them.

[dustedmagazine]

Horse Jumper of Love — Disaster Trick (Run for Cover)

Photo by Pond Creative

Horse Jumper of Love’s second album blows out introspective songs into wailing crescendos. Guitars bristle, flare and dissolve into fuzz, while quiet, contemplative lyrics unfold in the hurricane’s unblinking eye. “Wink,” the first single, spools out in chilled post-rocking chords, drums kicking up dust in the long sustained intervals. The singer, Dmitri Giannopoulos, sings in a shrugging, self-effacing tenor, navigating twisty melodies with an unhurried, unbothered nonchalance. The song is a battering ram and a weighted blanket, equal parts brute force and solace.

The music has undergone a shift since Heartbreak Rules, from 2023, an album I liked a lot. That record was a mostly solo endeavor, just Giannopoulos singing songs he’d knocked out during COVID quarantine and John Margaris coming in late to play a few piano parts. This one is much more of a band effort. Margaris plays bass throughout, and James Doran drums. There are guest appearances from of-the-moment indie rockers including Wednesday’s Karly Hartzman, MJ Lenderman and Ella Williams of Squirrel Flower. Though still morose and inward-looking, the songs bloom into sprawling, distorted, nocturnal flower. They are larger but very personal.

“Snow Angel,” for instance, establishes a slow acoustic strum, then blows it to bits with fuzz. The sound coils and uncoils, storming ahead with inexorable anthemic vigor, then turning inward on itself in wounded dissonance. “Curtain” strips back the Horse Jumper experience to flared electric chords and vocals. The song digs into the bleakest existential questions—the self, its relation with others, mortality — in clean, echoing isolation. Giannopoulos croons, “Do you think yours is the only point of view? Do you that think others haven’t done it, too? Did you follow that nasty rule? You wave that goodbye and they close the black curtain on you.”

The sound is mesmerizing, pitched somewhere between Polvo’s guitar-wrenching abstractions and David Grubbs’ surreal sung poetry and Bedhead but with more explosions. Ovlov comes to mind, too, in the tactile onslaught of distorted guitar sound. Yet the words are good, too, if hard to catch, as they bob up to the surface of guitar skree, then sink under again. “Lip Reader” has one of the disc’s most arresting images, in a verse that goes, “You were singing your song in the doorway/I could see you in the other room/like a lip reader from the other side/you’re from another side.”  The line between the living and the dead, the real and the imagined, is wavery and blurred.

At times, Giannopoulos recalls other, far more acoustically centered artists. The spare, stark “Word,” for instance, sounds a good bit like whispery, gothic Boduf songs. The trick he’s mastered, however, is hitching vulnerability to blaring, swelling, overwhelming guitar sounds. It’s not often that music this loud and distorted can break your heart.

Jennifer Kelly

[erabundus]

@cryoexorcist &&. said... it's raining. it's always raining these days (it's the first time it's rained in over a week, it's LIYUE). the air is thick and heavy, and chongyun is soaked. he's been without food for hours. in reality it's been only an hour but it'd been more of a snack than a meal. so what decides to happen on today of all days? he slips down a small hill. it's not enough to actually hurt him, but enough to damage his pride. so when chongyun stands up, covered in mud, he stands there, staring up at the sky with a mournful expression. he doesn't know anyone is watching. (liyue harbor is literally a five minute walk from where chongyun is standing. he could realistically just walk home. but-) this is agony. oh the HORROR.

the  sky  is  a  dark,  angry  swill  —  as  if  the  CLOUDS  themselves  have  been  doused  with  ink.  they  cover  the  world  in  a  suffocating  blanket,  creating  night  from  afternoon.  drenching  everything  beneath  their  dominion  in  downpour  and  shadow  alike.  lightning  flashes  —  a  searing  light,  cracking  across  the  sky  like  the  strike  of  a  mighty  blade.  in  that  ephemeral  burst  of  violent  luminescence,  there  stands  a  LONELY FIGURE  at  the  top  of  that  hill.  slender.  motionless.  one  would  think  him  a  statue  were  it  not  for  the  too-steady  rise  and  fall  of  his  chest  and  the  delicate sway  of  ornate  fabric  in  the  breeze.  another  flash  sees  him  backlit  by  the  electric  sky,  casting  seraphic  features  in  a  light  that  makes  them  seem  more  eerie  than  beautiful.  one  might  be  forgiven  for  assuming  they  find  themselves  pinned  beneath  the  gaze  of  a  reclusive  god  —  particularly  as  his  eyes  continue  to  glow  long  after  the  world  returns  to  its  usual  gloom.

a  hand  raises,  finger  extended  in  a  point  —  does  this  WRATHFUL  DEITY  mean  to  cast  judgement  upon  the  mud-caked  exorcist  at  the  bottom  of  the  hill?  lips  part.  a  soft  inhale,  inaudible  over  the  roaring  rain.  then ...

he promptly shatters the illusion by bursting into laughter.

❝  CHONGYUN?  ❞  his  cackling  is  grating  in  a  peculiar  way  only  ren  can  ever  truly  hope  to  be. endearing only in very small doses, yet rarely administered as such.  ❝  is  that  you?  with  all  of  that  FILTH  in  the  way,  i  can  hardly  tell.  ❞  more  laughter.  the  wanderer  doubles  over  a  bit,  and  nearly  slips  down  the  literal  slippery  slope  in  the  process.  he  didn't  take  chongyun  for  such  a  trendsetter  —  and  what  a  fashion  statement  it  is!  how  nice  to  see  the  worms  crawling  around  in  the  DIRT  where  they  belong.  ❝  did  you  do  something  different  with  your  hair?  cut it? dye it? that's  a  good  look  for  you!  ❞   he's  thankful  he  doesn't  actually  need  to  breathe; he might die otherwise. oh ... he is so HAPPY he saw that.

it  takes  a  good  few  minutes  before  the  wanderer  manages  to  scrape  together  the  dregs  of  his  COMPOSURE.  he  draws  himself  back  up  to  his  full  (  unimpressive  )  height  and  fakes  a  cough.  ❝  aha ...  hmm.  ❞   right. right. with  the  flick  of  a  wrist,  a  sudden  gust  of  wind  smacks  into  the  human  —  not  to  harm,  but  rather  fling  the  mud  in  the  opposite  direction.  (  though  ren's  relative  inexperience  with  anemo  makes  it  a  bit  more  VIOLENT  than  intended,  regardless.  )  is  it  an  improvement?  he  can't  really  tell.  he's  going  to  pretend  he's  doing  him  some  great  favor,  regardless  —  because  it  wouldn't  be  ren  if  he  didn't  endeavor  to  make  even  the  most  mundane  acts  just  a  bit  more  needlessly  grating  than  they  have  any  right  to  be.

❝ thanks for the laugh.  ❞ and suddenly, he's walking away. he's leaving them there ... in the rain.

[renee-writer]

April 15th Chapter Eleven

AO3

Explicit

Fergus will be in the care of Mary and Geillis for the next week. Geillis helps her out of her wedding dress and into the one she will start her honeymoon in.

 

“All you need to do is lay there.” Her mate says. Mary, feeding Fergus, overhears.

 

“Begging your pardon, mistresses, but that isn’t right.” Both eyes turn to her and she flushes but continues, “the lady will get more enjoyment,” her face is now blood red, “out of the act of she moves with her husband.”

 

“Enjoyment can be found?”

 

“Yes Mistress Fraser. I found quite a lot with my late husband.”

 

“She is right but not the first time. That is painful and messy. Over time though.”

 

Those conversations are in her head as she rides beside her new husband to the Ritz Carlton, where they will be honeymooning. Frank and herself were to sail to France. The thought of getting on a ship now is ghoulish. To stay in town  near Fergus, is better.

 

She squirms and he looks over at her. “Are you troubled Claire?”

 

“In mind, yes.” She looks to the driver sitting in front of them and lowers her voice. He leans in close to hear, “It is this night. I spoke to Mary and Geillis about it and got conflicting answers about what to expect. One says it will be all pain, one says pleasure is possible.”

 

He flushes at his wife ‘s boldness. It pleases him. “I don’t know what to expect either. I shall endeavor to bring you pleasure.”

 

“You don’t, you’re a …”

 

“Aye. A solemn vow to my father isn’t to be taken lightly. “

 

“Thank you. That helps.” She reaches under the lap blanket and finds his hand. He encloses his around hers.

 

They enter the magnificent room. The porter carries in their luggage and Jamie tips him. He tips his hat and leaves them, closing the door behind him.

 

“It is quite lovely.”  She says, touching the table, the electric light, lastly, the bed.

 

“Aye, you only have one honeymoon. I wished it to be memorable.”

 

She giggles, a bit nervously at that. “I cannot imagine it being anything but.”

 

He laughs himself. Soon they are both giggling uproariously. It removes the tension from the room.

 

“Shall we get comfortable, Mrs. Fraser?” He sits on the edge of the bed and removes his shoes.  Smiling, she sits at the roll top desk and does the same. Wiggling her toes, now only held by her stockings, she looks to her husband. He is staring at her toes. Looking down, she sees her ankle is bared.

 

He walks over and kneels down by her, taken it in hand. Her breath comes faster. He runs his thumb over it.  When he meets her eyes, his are darker, more indigo then blue. She feels a thrill of fear and something else run through her.

 

“Shall I free your toes?” his voice is deeper too. Overcome, she simply nods.

 

Her stocking ends right under her knee. Biting her lips, she watches his hands disappear under her dress. There it is again, that queer feeling that settles at her bosom and between her legs. Desire! Oh, that is good.

 

His member grows hard under his trousers as he moves across her silk covered leg. He has never touched a lass there. Now he can touch her everywhere. The thought brings a groan. Slow, he reminds himself.

 

Finding the end of her stocking, he slowly unrolls it down her leg. Off her foot it goes. He lifts up her bare foot and lays a kiss on her ankle bone. He then removes the other one.

 

They look at each other. She wants to tell him how she feels but doesn’t knows how. Thank goodness her husband does.

 

“Claire, I am shaking with want for you. Will you have me?”

 

“Yes Jamie, I will.”

 

He lifts her to her feet and then has no idea how to begin undressing her.  “How?” She smiles and directs him.

 

Down to her corset, satin bloomers, and slip, she turns around so he can unlace it. His hands shake at the job. Her own hands to as well. Will he find her acceptable? Her figure has never been seen by a man before. He pulls the laces through and the corset drops. She stands still, fearing turning around.

 

“Please Claire.” Shivering, she does. Her slip is thin and he can see the shape of her breast through it. They take his breath away. “You are the most beautiful woman I have ever seen.”

 

Her eyes drop, landing on the front of his trousers. It seems he speaks the truth from the outline of his member. Suddenly, she is anxious to see him as well.

 

“My turn.” Her hands find the buttons on his shirt. Trembling hands start to work them open. He removed his coat and vest, as well as tie, in entering the room. It helps her as she works to undress him.

 

He shrugs the shirt off when she gets it open. She bites her lip at his undershirt, tucked into his trousers. Dare she place her hands inside? She is his wife. Nodding to herself, she reaches in and lifts it out. Up, and some more before he helps her remove it.

 

Never has she seen a man, bare chested. Her uncle was never without his undershirt and usually more around her. She runs her hands over the sharp planes, though his chest hair, and over his nipples. He lets out a moan at that move.

 

In for a penny, she thinks as she slips his trousers open and pushes them down. His underwear can’t hold his member. It strains against the fabric.

 

To turned on to wait, he lifts her slip off. The sight of her ivory orbs with their cherry red nipples almost has him disgracing them both.  He pulls her flush against him and takes her lips in a bruising kiss.

 

This is no gentle, appropriate for mixed company brushing. This is a complete exploration of her lips, mouth, and tongue.

 

She feels faint when his tongue enters her mouth. Clinging to him, she runs hers over his. His hands find her bum and pull her closer.

 

He is huge against her bloomers. She should be worried about how she will be able to take all of him. Right now though, all she is thinking about is how wonderful this feels. Her breasts, a barely noticed part of her body usually, are heavy and achy. Her nipples tingle and tighten as they run over his own chest.

 

Her own privates are swelling and wet, a circumstance they have never before experienced.

 

Oh heavens! He is kissing across her bosom. All she can do is hold on as his mouth finds her first achy nipple. Oh that is what it was aching for!

 

“Jamie, it is lovely.” She moans out. He sucks harder his hand finding the other one and playing with it.  “Ohh my! Something is…”

 

She finds herself unable to control her hips. By their own volition, they move against him. She is seeking. Suddenly.

 

She grows hot like a sudden fever. The pleasure builds raising up and centering on her privates. A burst, like a exploding star as it runs through her. Her eyes roll back and she cries out.

 

Jamie, never seeing or causing a woman’s orgasm before, frets. He moves off her breasts and studies her. Her skin is red tinted, her eyes blown wide, she is shaking.

 

“Claire, what have I done to you? Shall I ring for a doctor?”

 

“Don’t fret dear husband. I just found out Mary was right.”

 

It still takes him a moment. Then he grins. “I brought you pleasure?”

 

“Oh yes.” She reaches down and removes her sodden bloomers. “Shall we move to the bed?”

 

He quickly rids himself of his own and his socks. When he turns around, Claire has removed her hair pins. Her mane fans out around her head as she lays, nude as a newborn, waiting for him.

 

He joins her on the bed and runs his hand for her hair down across her body. When he gets to the bush between her legs, he finds her wet.

 

“Why, my wife, you are as slick as a water lily.”

 

“When I found my pleasure, that happened.” She spreads her legs more, encouraging his exploration.

 

“Fascinating. It makes it easier for me to enter you.”

 

She looks at him. His hand was still moving about inside her folds. His member stands tall and proud, growing from its own bush.

 

“My husband, I want you.” He jerks his eyes to her face. It is flushes and her breathing is fast. Her nipples still stand erect. Maybe it is time.

 

“Aye, my wife.” Taken himself in hand, he lines himself up with her.  Keeping her eyes, he gently presses in. He is big and fears hurting her. She seems as delicate as a rose petal.  A bit more. Her body seems to adjust to fit him. A bit more. Oh there is her maidenhead.

 

“It is alright. Just push through.” She steals herself as he places a hand on either side of her head and does.

 

It hurts but only for a moment. Fully sheathed, he stops, even as his hungry body urges him to move.

 

“My wife are you alright?”

 

“I am. It only hurt for a moment.”

 

Good. That is good. He must move, his heart is pounding so hard he feels it in his head.

 

“I must…”

 

“Yes.” He moves partially out before moving back into her welcoming heat. Again and again. He is so focused on his own need that he isn’t aware of what is happening with Claire. Until he hears her call out and  her tighten around him. He climaxes hard, her name a roar.

[ases012345]

Setting Up a New Lab: A Step-by-Step Guide

Setting up a new lab is an exciting endeavor, whether it’s for scientific research, educational purposes, or product development. However, it’s also a project that requires careful planning and attention to detail. From choosing the right equipment to ensuring the space is safe and functional, there are many considerations to keep in mind. In this guide, we will walk through the key steps involved in setting up a new lab, offering tips and advice to ensure you create a space that supports productivity, safety, and scientific excellence.

1. Define the Purpose and Scope of Your Lab

Before you dive into purchasing equipment or selecting the perfect space, it’s crucial to understand the specific purpose of your lab. What type of work will you be conducting? Are you setting up a chemistry lab, a biology research lab, or perhaps a physics or computer science lab? Each type of lab has different requirements in terms of equipment, safety measures, and space organization.

For example, a chemistry lab will need proper ventilation, fume hoods, and chemical storage areas. A biology lab might require biosafety cabinets, microscopes, and controlled environments. Clearly defining your lab’s purpose will help you make informed decisions during the setup process and prevent unnecessary expenses.

2. Choose the Right Location

The location of your lab is an important consideration, as it impacts everything from workflow to safety. If you are setting up the lab in an existing building, ensure the space has adequate plumbing, electrical outlets, and ventilation. In some cases, you may need to modify the space to suit your needs — for example, adding more power outlets, installing fume hoods, or improving lighting.

Consider the layout of the space. A well-designed lab encourages efficiency and safety. It’s a good idea to have distinct areas for different tasks, such as separate zones for experiments, storage, and office work. Keep in mind the need for future expansion. It’s wise to leave room for adding more equipment or accommodating a growing team.

3. Plan for Safety and Compliance

Safety should always be a top priority when setting up any laboratory. Different types of labs have specific safety guidelines that must be followed, including those set by local authorities, health organizations, or institutional regulations. For example, biosafety levels (BSL) dictate the required safety measures in biological labs.

Some essential safety equipment you will need includes:

Safety glasses and gloves for all lab personnel

Fire extinguishers and fire blankets

First aid kits

Eyewash stations and safety showers

Fume hoods for handling chemicals or gases

Chemical spill kits

Proper storage cabinets for hazardous materials

It’s also essential to make sure that all equipment complies with relevant safety standards and certifications. Conduct regular safety drills and provide training for everyone working in the lab. Remember, safety is not just about preventing accidents; it’s about creating an environment where everyone feels confident and equipped to handle potential hazards.

4. Choose the Right Equipment

The next step is selecting the equipment that best fits the needs of your lab. The equipment you’ll need will depend largely on the type of experiments or tests you plan to perform. Here’s a general breakdown of some common equipment categories:

Basic lab tools: Microscopes, test tubes, petri dishes, beakers, pipettes, and balances.

Advanced equipment: Autoclaves, spectrometers, centrifuges, incubators, and chromatography systems.

Computers and software: For data collection, analysis, and experiment management, powerful computers with specific software (like lab management systems or data analysis tools) may be necessary.

When purchasing equipment, prioritize quality and reliability. While it’s tempting to cut costs, investing in high-quality instruments often saves money in the long run by preventing frequent repairs or replacements. Additionally, consider buying equipment that has the capability for upgrades, as your lab’s needs may evolve over time.

5. Organize Storage and Workspace

Organizing the lab is crucial for maintaining a safe and efficient environment. Use cabinets, drawers, and shelving units to store chemicals, tools, and samples. Label everything clearly to avoid confusion. Chemicals, especially, should be stored according to their classification (flammable, corrosive, etc.) to ensure safety.

Also, consider ergonomics when arranging the workstations. Ensure that all equipment is accessible and that personnel can work comfortably without straining themselves. Proper lighting and workspace design contribute significantly to lab productivity and prevent fatigue or accidents.

6. Set Up Proper Waste Disposal Systems

Waste disposal is an often-overlooked but essential part of setting up a lab. Hazardous waste — whether chemical, biological, or general laboratory waste — requires careful handling. Consult with waste management companies to set up disposal systems that comply with local environmental regulations.

You’ll need designated bins for different types of waste, such as chemical waste, sharps, and biohazardous materials. Train all staff on how to properly dispose of waste and monitor systems to ensure they are functioning correctly.

7. Maintain a Maintenance Plan

Once your lab is set up, it’s important to have a clear maintenance and calibration plan in place for all equipment. Regular checks and servicing help prevent malfunctions that could delay research or result in costly repairs. Some equipment, such as centrifuges or analytical instruments, require periodic calibration to ensure they are functioning accurately.

Create a schedule for routine maintenance, and assign someone to oversee the upkeep of the lab. Keep detailed logs of maintenance, repairs, and calibration to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements.

Conclusion

Setting up a new lab can be a complex but rewarding process. By focusing on safety, organization, and the right equipment, you can create a space that fosters productivity and scientific discovery. Whether you are designing a state-of-the-art research facility or a small educational lab, thoughtful planning and attention to detail are the keys to success.

[chhaperiablogs]

Harnessing Innovation: Unraveling the Marvels of Mica Heating Elements by Chhaperia

Introduction:

In the realm of electrical heating solutions, one name stands out for its commitment to excellence and innovation – Chhaperia. With a legacy spanning over five decades, Chhaperia has been at the forefront of revolutionizing the heating industry with its cutting-edge technologies. Among its arsenal of groundbreaking products, Mica Heating Elements emerge as a shining beacon of efficiency, reliability, and versatility. Let's delve into the realm of Mica Heating Elements and uncover the transformative power they hold in various applications.

Understanding Mica Heating Elements:

Mica Heating Elements, crafted meticulously by Chhaperia, are a testament to engineering prowess and ingenuity. At their core lies mica – a naturally occurring mineral renowned for its exceptional thermal properties and electrical insulation capabilities. Chhaperia harnesses the innate strengths of mica and augments them with advanced manufacturing techniques to create heating elements that redefine industry standards.

Unparalleled Efficiency:

One of the most striking features of Mica Heating Elements is their unparalleled efficiency. By leveraging the superb thermal conductivity of mica, Chhaperia designs elements that swiftly and uniformly distribute heat across surfaces. Whether it's industrial machinery, household appliances, or specialized equipment, Mica Heating Elements ensure optimal heat transfer, minimizing energy wastage and maximizing performance.

Versatility Redefined:

Chhaperia's Mica Heating Elements epitomize versatility, catering to a myriad of applications across diverse sectors. From automotive heating systems and food processing equipment to medical devices and aerospace components, these elements seamlessly adapt to various environments and operational requirements. Their ability to operate at high temperatures with remarkable stability makes them indispensable in demanding industrial settings while also finding utility in everyday consumer appliances.

Precision Engineering:

Precision is the cornerstone of Chhaperia's manufacturing philosophy, reflected in every facet of their Mica Heating Elements. Each element undergoes rigorous quality checks and adheres to stringent industry standards to ensure flawless performance and durability. By integrating advanced technologies and meticulous craftsmanship, Chhaperia consistently delivers heating solutions that exceed expectations, earning the trust of clients worldwide.

Environmental Sustainability:

In an era marked by growing environmental consciousness, Chhaperia remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainability. Mica, being a naturally occurring mineral, aligns seamlessly with eco-friendly practices. Furthermore, Chhaperia employs energy-efficient manufacturing processes and prioritizes recyclability in its product design, minimizing environmental impact without compromising on performance or reliability.

Innovative Applications:

The versatility of Mica Heating Elements opens doors to a multitude of innovative applications across diverse industries. In the automotive sector, these elements find utility in engine preheating systems, battery thermal management, and cabin heating solutions, contributing to enhanced performance and efficiency. In the realm of consumer electronics, Mica Heating Elements power hair styling tools, coffee makers, and electric blankets, enriching everyday experiences with comfort and convenience.

Future Prospects:

As technological advancements continue to reshape the landscape of heating solutions, Chhaperia remains at the vanguard of innovation. The evolution of Mica Heating Elements holds immense promise, with ongoing research and development endeavors aimed at pushing the boundaries of performance, efficiency, and sustainability. With a steadfast commitment to excellence and a legacy of engineering brilliance, Chhaperia is poised to shape the future of heating technology.

Conclusion:

In the realm of electrical heating solutions, Chhaperia's Mica Heating Elements stand as a testament to innovation, efficiency, and reliability. With a legacy spanning over five decades, Chhaperia continues to redefine industry standards, harnessing the transformative power of mica to create heating solutions that transcend boundaries and empower progress. As we navigate towards a future marked by technological advancements and sustainability, Chhaperia remains a beacon of excellence, illuminating the path towards a brighter, more efficient tomorrow.

[writer59january13]

How exciting; first appreciable (healthy) snowfall 2024...

within hinterlands of Perkiomen Valley Pennsylvania occurred January 6th promptly at noon.

Virgin whiteness blankets terrestrial realm

bajillion snowflakes tumble out of sky

atavistic fascination awakened agog at ice crystals stinging each eye while I strike open mouthed stance

relishing tasting frozen water molecules.

No matter yours truly witnessed

countless winter wonderlands

since completing lxiv orbitz round the sun,

the first major seasonal substantial accumulation

excites the little boy inside me.

Additionally, I feel truly humbled and enamored

when Mother Nature

singly and/or nsync with old man winter,

whether she (former)

looses propensity to wreak havoc (think climatological, geological,

meteorological, et cetera phenomena)

or latter trumpets weather,

whereby landscape magically transformed into blinding brilliance,

I tip hat to personification of winter

and fondly think back

remembering '96 storm of the century.

At that time January 1996

me and the missus timesharing seven nights and six days holed up

along Shawnee on the Delaware (a honeymoon gift courtesy my parents) spending disproportionate amount of time

frolicking under warm blankets

ardently, fervently, naturally...

both of us experiencing

devilish, feverish, impish,

loutish (more so me)... concupiscence

striving to beget offspring, yet unsuccessful

conceiving Blizzard Baby.

Now far beyond prime procreative age,

(though I wistfully envisage

begetting another progeny -

simultaneously stretching credulity

to breaking point)

all things considered

exhaustion would peter out

after capitulation of divining rod

necessitating lifetime to recoup energy.

Bound within figurative four walls

of Schwenksville, Pennsylvania domicile

courtesy appreciable snowfall,

I direct energy crafting poem.

Yours truly will actually

refrain comestibles despite feeling hungry -

lest metabolism to digest food

decreases potential alertness,

and full belly finds me

ready able and willing

to doze immediately into deep slumber.

Hungry stomach in tandem

with eventful weather

sends surge of giddiness

coursing thru body electric

crackling, popping, and snapping

(while O Captain! My Captain!)

came to witty man (me) suddenly

enervating with poignant pregnant expectancy

papa pondering his empty nest syndrome

analogously attempting to offset void

coaxing reasonable rhyme into existence

unsure how literary endeavor

(mine) will thrive

amidst well suited

panoply of prolific writers,

whose unseen fingers

hop lightly and gracefully

across qwerty computer keyboard

akin to heavy armed soldiers

with fearlessness and deliberation

heading off to war to acquire poetic license.

Meanwhile chafed knuckles

of one garden variety primate

previously scraping knuckles along tundra in mock imitation of forebears

(methinks I espy frozen Mastodon)

before said twenty first century caveman

learned to stand erect

endeavors to strike letter combinations

eliciting, facilitating, and generating

enticing curb appeal.

[littleharpethcrossfit]

Thursday, 28 December, 2023.

It was cloudy, 42 degrees, no wind, but very pleasant for outdoor Crossfit. Herb complained incessantly.

Warmup

4 Rounds

3 Pull-Ups

5 Push-Ups

7 PVC Shoulder Dislocates

Strength

Power Snatch: 2 Reps E2M 5 For Sets

Chase/Patrick=115 Herb=105 Timmy (Sometimes he posts TIM. Sometimes he posts Timmy)=105 Coach=80 Tom/Dana=75 Cheri/Elisa/Kayla/Joe=65 Sue/Marissa=55 Shannon=35 Ed=PJ Average Dave/Louis(Lewis), CeeCee/Linda/Sabrina and several others= No score.

WOD

Double-Under's (SU X 2)....50 / 40 / 30 / 20 / 10

Wall-Balls (30/20/14)...............5 / 10 / 15 / 20 / 25

Ground To Overheads.........5 / 5 / 5 / 5 / 5.......(135/95/6

Elisa=10:38 Kayla=11:15 Cheri=11:47 Joe=12:11 Marissa=12:30 Dana=12:43** Sue=13:30 Chase=13:41** Tom=13:53 Herb=13:55 Patrick=15:47 Shannon=17:00 Timmy=17:30 Coach=19:00 Ed=PJ *Cee/Cee/Linda/Average Dave/Lewis (Louis),Sabrina PJ. How can someone post RX for a workout and PJ ????

Notes:

A very enjoyable wine and snacks followed. Due to the Herb level of chill, we elected to set up a table inside the stalls and endeavored to keep Herb warm.

It was a good crowd. Very Good.

Cheeses/ nuts/ cookies/ chocolates/ Pigs in a Blanket with spicy mustards/ and Chic Fil A nuggets provided by Miss Kayla and maybe other fine things I can't recall.

Wines included 2 excellent Chards, and approximately 10 more reds. All were eventually disposed of. One of the Pinot's (Paul Lato) was a gift from Frank Berklacich who will be forever in our hearts.

I'm not particularly fond of Average Dave but I am extremely crazy about the other 3 members of his family. Lewis (Louis) and Cee-Cee brought Dave to the workout this afternoon. If I could buy stock in the futures of youngsters, I would buy all I could get of Lewis(Louis) and Cee-Cee. Miss Ryan has done a superb job raising these kiddos.

Cherrita came late. Bubbling with excuses, she arrived too late to workout (alas) but very hungry and thirsty. Does that sound like Sammy D ? I wanted to converse with her but she was forever involved first with Sabrina , and secondly with Kayla. I couldn't even get her attention when her long puffy coat started to melt in front of the Tom Milam Electric Radiator Heater.

Please do a search of DIMPLES OF VENUS and be prepared to defend your knowledge and awareness of the prevalence of this superficial anatomic attraction had by rare athletes at LHCF.

Chase brought another couple of friends. Patrick and Marissa are from our area but currently reside near Louisville where they attend CrossFit Regeneration. Does Chase know any commonly plain looking females ? They both got LHCF jerseys, but Marissa was personally fitted. I hope they return.

There is nothing, none, nada, zero, zilch, absolutely dry, bottles of cancer causing plastic infused water available at the Barn. If you ever dare to drink some of this toxic stew, Please bring a CASE. Timmy brings most of the ice.

Saturday at 0730 and at 0930.