#Engagement Rings versus Wedding Rings

[georgiapeach30513]

When The Rain Gathers..., Part 1

Summary: You thought that things with Ransom were simple. They were supposed to be. So why when you announce your marriage to Carter Baizen, and the now fast approaching wedding did things get so complicated? It was supposed to be you and Ransom versus the world. And now everyone wants to split the two of you apart. Ransom is your best friend, the man that had all your firsts. And even if people, and Carter are trying to pull you apart, you're not ready to say goodbye to the best thing in your life...

Pairings: Ransom Drysdale X Reader, Carter Baizen X Reader

Rating: explicit

Warnings:  explicit language, explicit sexual content, unprotected sex, mentions of loss of innocence, teasing, slight possessiveness, pining, creampie, Plan B, 18+ ONLY

Word Count: 5.6K

Series Masterlist

You take in a full, deep inhale. Sensing and smelling the impending rain with a smile on your face. Ignoring the packed boxes behind you because your family home has always been the best place. Your bedroom and all the secret ways to get out of this castle that led you straight next door. You bite on your lip, trying to hide the grin that spreads on your face as you see his little boy bedroom. Memories flooding into your mind of the most amazing childhood with him.

You can see two kids, hand in hand, running away from these houses, and further into a fairytale world. A world where everything was so much simpler. A world of running to the highest hill in the area with the biggest and best climbing tree, and waiting. Watching as the sky got a bit darker. Time stops until that moment of the first drop of rain, and you and Ransom would chase each other. Dance. Sing at the top of your lungs. The rain creating an invisibility cloak around you.

You don’t know fully why playing in the rain was the best thing, but it was almost magical. Maybe it was just your best friend being with you. Maybe it was because the noise of the life of the rich stopped for a few minutes, and the water washed away all your etiquette. A time where the two of you could just be kids.

If the rain went on too long, the two of you would mosey on up to Harlan’s house. If the rain wasn’t long enough, you’d climb that giant oak tree, and sit and talk about the future. Your feet dangling off that perfect branch, while you held each other’s hands and talked about what you wanted in life.

“Sweetheart,” this is not where you saw yourself. His hands slide from your back all the way around your middle, connecting at the hands before he pulls you into his front. Carter rests his chin on your head as he looks at the distant house, and right into Ransom’s old bedroom. His parents have long since left that house. Now it was your parents’ turn, and everything feels like it’s changing.

“Are you about to finish here?” Conveniently Carter had a business call that stole his time away from going through your childhood memories or even plan your wedding. You aren’t sure if you were hearing things, but it sounded as if he scoffed at the many photos of you and Ransom in here before he hugged you.

“Yeah, and you’re about ready to fly out of town?”

“That would be part of the job,” he spins you around to look at him. His steel blue eyes raking over your face. “Are you angry?”

“No,” you sigh. You love Carter. There are some adjustments that you’ll have to continue to get used to. Things have moved rapidly since the engagement. And he still hadn’t met the most important person in your life. The second most important — that just didn’t seem right. But Carter should be the first, right?

“You’re just leaving when we should be planning our wedding,” he looks down at your hand, twisting around the too big ring he placed on your finger. What was your sister thinking? Or did he ask? Too bad he didn’t ask Ransom what would be the perfect ring. Ransom knew in detail, because he had the gall to ask during your first year in college, and you divulged everything that you wanted.

“You won’t get to be there for flowers, cake, and you won’t get to see the location site,” Carter releases an annoyed huff of air. “You’ve never even seen Harlan’s estate.”

“Why would we get married there?” This is one thing that annoyed you. He never understood the importance of Harlan’s property. “Under a tree that my fiancé dangled her little legs on, sitting next to a man that is in love with you.”

“No, he’s not. Ransom is my best friend,” Carter rolls his eyes, but maintains his smile. “He is,” you laugh because this conversation kept happening, and he had never met Ransom. He didn’t know the dynamic between the two of you. “It’s been a dream of mine to get married there.”

“We’ll talk about it some other time. I’m not heading to the airport with this as our last conversation,” if Carter said no, it wouldn’t matter anyways. He and his family would get what they wanted with the wedding, but at least you were getting him as a husband. But time is running out to find a location elsewhere.

“Then could you at least just think about it and consider it? Please? Pretty pretty please?” Carter chuckles, pulling you closer to him to give you a chaste kiss. “At least look at it?”

“Yes, I’ll consider it. You can show me in a FaceTime call, but I still deep down don’t think it’s our best option. I want everyone to feel comfortable, and I don’t think my family would feel that there. So can you respect that?” You smile, wiggling around, and nodding your head. Yes, you can respect that, as long as he will look at it, and give it a chance. A FaceTime won’t do the property justice. Harlan’s estate meant and still means so much to you. It’s the thing that never changes.

“Okay, tell me you love me,” his voice hits that beautiful tone that makes you want to jump into his arms.

“I love you, and do we have time…”

“No, we don’t. I wish. I could use the feeling of you on me before I traveled to work. Love you, and I’ll see you in a couple of weeks, okay?” He walks backwards, his hand starting to slide out of your own, and you nod. A couple of weeks wouldn’t be so bad. And then a week. And then a marriage. That was the bad part. No, the scary part. No…intimidating part.

You still didn’t understand why he and his mother felt the need to rush this marriage. What could possibly be done in that little amount of time? You guessed with enough money, anything is possible.

Linda walks by her son at the table, stalling while she stares at him. Looking at nothing with his chin resting on his hands is all he ever does now. She walks back towards a table, and grabs up a beautifully intricate invitation and drops it on the table in front of her son. “Is this what’s bothering you?”

“What is this?” He looks at her confused. Flipping over the envelope he sees a broken wax seal with a giant B on it. “Mother?”

“I’m a bit confused on why you wouldn’t know. Open it.”

Ransom pulls out the invite. His eyes move over the pristine and gaudy paper before he lets it fall back to the table. Looking into the distance with even more confusion than ever. “She’d never agree to get married at the Liberty,” Linda shrugs as she walks to the other end of the table. “She was going to get married under our tree.”

“Ahh, you see the problem with that statement?” Ransom’s face turns up in disgust as he shakes his head. “‘Our tree’ and she’s marrying another man?”

“I figured she would always marry another man,” Linda rolls her eyes as she cuts her steak. “What?”

“Because you didn’t admit your true feelings to her.”

“She has never felt anything romantic towards me,” Ransom bitterly rolls his eyes as he stuffs a bite of food into his mouth.

“Who was her first kiss?” Ransom rolls his eyes again, taking a long drink of his beer. “Her first sexual encounter? Did you forget telling me the next evening that she begged you to have sex with her because she didn’t want to go to university as a virgin?”

“I — it wasn’t like that.”

“Okay,” Linda finishes, taking a bite of her food, but Ransom still stews. “You didn’t get an invitation?” He shakes his head no. His eyes glaring at the stupid piece of paper. It was too pure and white. It wasn’t you at all. Your sister, maybe, but not you. “You can be my plus one then. Also, she invited me to go shopping with her for the dress. Since her mother passed, she wants someone that knows her. She said she was calling you.”

“I just found out that she was engaged, and she mentioned going dress shopping, but…this date, it’s too soon. What the fuck is going on?” Linda clears her throat. “Don’t act like you don’t use profanity.”

“I am trying to do better. At least at the dinner table. And the Baizens don’t like long engagements,” Ransom groans. The Baizens. “Yeah, she’ll be moving to New York. She’ll look beautiful on his arm,” but will he play in the rain with you? Will he know that Ransom explored your virginal folds and you told him what you liked when it came to oral sex? Does Carter Francis Baizen III know that you liked your clit to be nipped?

Did he know that you didn’t like the city? That you’d prefer to wear Ransom’s sweaters than fancy dresses? Did he know how many children you wanted to have? And how they would have unique names that he helped pick out? Did he know that you haven’t been the same since your mother passed? Did he know that you hate people, and use him as a shield against that? That you’re painfully shy, and get so exhausted after being around a crowd, and dance helped you? Did Carter even know that you hated your birthstone, so claimed smokey quartz as yours because of its protective qualities?

He doubted Carter knows anything about you with how quickly this relationship has happened. Did you even know yourself anymore? “Did you give her your ring?”

Linda sighs, waiting on Ransom to look up at her before shaking her head. “It didn’t feel right.”

“Why?”

“He didn’t ask me for it, and I always thought I’d be giving it to you for when you got your head out of your ass and proposed to the best fucking thing that’s ever happened to you,” Ransom looks up at her pouting. “Oh don’t be daft, Ransom. Everyone knows you carry a torch for that girl. You’d marry her tomorrow if she asked. The problem is you wait on her to ask, and she’s never going to. Because she’s too stubborn to admit that she’s in love with you, too.”

Ransom takes a bite of his food, looking at his less than desirable plate. Everything his mom is saying is a lie. You didn’t have any romantic feelings for him. He knew it that next morning. He knew then he was madly in love with you, and you had just been using him as a teacher, and if that’s the only way he could have you in that way, he’d take it

Ransom peers over your spent body. How had it only been a few hours since he finally got to have you in the most intimate of ways. Watch you as your walls came tumbling down, and you gripped tight on more than just his dick. Your hands clung to him. Your eyes couldn’t look away. Capturing him in a way that literally stole his breath away.

And after he cleaned you up, all you wanted was his worn in sweater. It swallowed you whole, and then you put on the most beautiful delicate panties. And now you’re in his bed in a fetal position with your ass right at his crotch. Perfect in ways he didn’t even realize. You were made for him in more ways than he realized.

Sweetly whimpering, you gazed down at where the two of you connected as he pushed through your walls. Nothing but skin on skin, and your wide innocent eyes. Gasping and choking as he slid all the way home. Your squirming wasn’t enough to deter him. You begged, and pleaded for him to show you what the big deal was with sex, and even he couldn’t explain it, until he had you. And everything was otherworldly.

You were overwhelmed, and he couldn’t regulate his breathing. But now that you’re lying next to him blissed out with your post-coital glow, it all makes sense. You may not know it, but you were made for him. You wiggle closer to him, exposing those sinful innocent panties even more, and he places a hand on your hip. Sliding it up and down over your stomach.

He loved you, but now he is completely, utterly, and unapologetically in love with you. He doesn’t even take his eyes off you when the door slowly opens. Linda peeks through the room, and shakes her head sighing. “Your father and I are going to head out for the day. Be smart.”

Ransom nods his head, still looking at you, and Linda already sees the too far gone look. “Here,” she pulls out a bag from the pharmacist, and lays it on his dresser. “Be careful. And I’m not condoning this, I just need you to be smart with this one.”

“Nothing happened,” he’s barely audible. He wished his mother would just leave so he could soak you up. You were exhausted.

“And I wasn’t born yesterday. That’s a Plan B pill. She needs to take it today. Gerald would not be happy with his baby girl winding up pregnant before she went to NYU. He wants to see her dance just like her mom,” Ransom rolls his eyes. Whispering for her to go. “I mean it, son.”

He didn’t care what she thought, he cared what you thought. If you told him today that you didn’t want to go into the city, and didn’t want to strap on another pair of pointe shoes, and didn’t know how to tell your dad, he’d grab your hand, and flee to whatever country you wanted to go to.

He’s not sure how long he lays here, watching you. Kissing over your exposed shoulder. Rubbing over your skin, and maybe selfishing touching your heated mound. But it would never be long enough. This is what he wants for life. You yawn, stirring more before sitting up. Wincing as you do, and you turn back to find Ransom snickering.

“You’re not that big.”

“And just how many cocks have you seen, Belle?” You turn back to look at the door. You should leave soon. You’re surprised that Linda hadn’t come in to tell you it was time to go home. “Mom and dad left. You want to watch a movie?”

He rolls over to his back, and suddenly you feel so empty. So alone, and he’s right there. Things feel the same, and also so very different because whatever last night was you want to do it again. Want to feel him pushing into you, feel his heated breath on your skin, see the sweat beading around his hair. And you asked him so many questions last night. Embarrassing questions, but he answered earnestly.

“They’re gone?” Maybe you didn’t have to leave. You didn’t want to. What you wanted was to try sex again.

“Yeah, she left you a Plan B over there,” you hide your face as every part of you heats up. “It’s fine. She thinks we’ve been sleeping together since we were fifteen years old.”

“That doesn’t help,” you whine, still cowering behind your hands. You had a thought, and then it was squashed.

“At least now you don’t have to go buy one,” you had mentioned it, but Ransom still pulled out of you. You wanted to give all of Ransom your firsts, not sure of why, but you felt like he owned all of them; deserved all your firsts. “Just watch a movie with me. Cuddle with me, and forget we ever had sex, okay?”

“Fine,” you harrumph, twisting over to your other side and face Ransom. Just like normal you lay your head and a hand on his chest. He wraps an arm around you, pulling you closer, and you caress his bare stomach. Everything is just like normal.

Ransom starts a movie, and you can't focus on anything but him. One time wasn’t enough to learn anything. You were awkward, and stayed in one position. You didn’t try anything. Nothing. This whore of a man stayed having sex, while you waited on him to finish, and would sneak into your bedroom, or you’d sneak into his once you saw the car leave.

Clearly he is feeling the same thing, judging by the tent lifting the blanket, but he says nothing. Not a damn thing. Your body is so heated and wet, you’re ready to burst. You want to try other positions. You want to ride him — ride a dick. You want to fuck in doggy style. And you want to feel cum inside you, not on your stomach.

“Ran,” you make your voice so sweet, and he swats your ass. “Hugh!”

“No! I fucking feel your pussy throbbing on my thigh, and it’s making me hard. It’s my body’s response. Don’t ask!”

“But you’re hard, and you didn’t show me nearly enough,” he spanks your ass again, growling when you whimper. “The Plan B is right over there,” you say loudly, sitting up in bed. “You're hard, I’m wet, and I don’t know how to ride dick. Or how to do it doggy style.”

“Get on all fours. It’s not complicated,” why is he denying you what you want? You wrap your arms around yourself pouting, and he looks back to the movie. Ignoring you completely. He’d fuck girls all weekend, but is denying his best friend. It’s cruel. What do they do that make him not want to stop? They were more aggressive.

Smiling, you clamor over top of him, straddling him as you demand attention. “Look at me.”

“I am. There’s literally nothing else to look at.”

Reaching to the bottom hemline of his sweater, you pull it off you, “Look at me,” he’s looking everywhere but your face. Eyes glossing over as he stares at your tits. It feels nice sitting like this. There’s so much — heat. You need friction. Movement. Think of porn. How do they move on someone? You roll your hips, getting a loud groan from Ransom, so you keep going.

“Touch me,” you whimper, pulling up his hands to place on your tits. “Grope me. Show me what you do to those other girls.”

“No,” he responds flatly.

“Why?” Even though he says no, his hands knead your breasts. Pinching and pulling your nipples as he starts sitting up in the bed. His mouth moving closer to your tits.

“Because I didn’t care about them. They were just a wet hole,” you push him back down onto the bed, and he laughs.

“It’s not funny. What if someone treated me like that?” His face darkens as he looks up at you through his lashes. He is nearly baring his teeth like a wild dog. “What if some man at college uses me just for sex? I don’t want sex to be like that for me. I want it with someone I love.”

“It’s a dangerous game we’re playing,” you know it is. But if you have to play a game, it is going to be with Ransom.

“Just today. Until your parents get back. I want you to explore me. Teach me. Show me. Tell me how to know if a man wants my body or if he wants my heart,” Ransom sits up abruptly, moving his hands to cup your tits. Leaning forward his mouth circles around the sensitive bud, and his teeth scrape over the area, and you arch your back, pushing more into him.

“You’re too eager, and too sensitive. Minimum of five dates before anything moves past your mouths, not even oral. Clothes stay on,” you nod as he moves to the other nipple, and he sucks roughly. His tongue is able to circle around the peak before he pulls off with a pop.

“Remember you deserve the world. Don’t settle for some idiot at a bodega. You need someone that can give you a life of travel, wandering the world, and not having to worry about money. You nod again as he taps your leg, “Lift up a bit.”

Enthusiastically you completely get off him. Standing up on the floor where you shimmy out of your panties. Watching as he slides his boxers down, and you’re already bouncing back to the bed. “Easy. Don’t act like this for others. They’ll take advantage of you. Alright, straddle me, and grab the base of my cock.”

You listen, and start sinking over him. “No, guide me through your wetness. Use your body as lube,” you follow his directions, moving his head through your folds. “Now, find your hole, and slowly sink down. There ya go. Keep going, Belle. Keep taking me,” you sink, chest heaving as you feel him inside you. “Just like that, baby. Just like that. Take all of me. Don’t stop.”

You don’t. You keep taking all of him, until you’ve seated yourself back on top of him. “Now, just let your body adjust to me. Breathe in and out,” he holds up his hands, and you weave your fingers into his. Focusing on breathing, instead of the intense stretch he’s giving your body. You can feel him up to your ears. What is the normal size of a dick? Or is it everything else? Because he’s your Ransom.

“Belle,” his sickeningly sweet nickname for you rings up into your ears, and you can’t help but to roll your hips. “Fuck,” Ransom whispers as you start a slow pace of grinding on him. You look down at him smiling, “What?”

“This doesn’t feel the same,” this feels weaker than whatever he was doing to you last night.

“Because you’re on top, and there’s really not any thrusting,” you curl your nose as you look at him. “It feels amazing, sweetheart, but it’s just stimulating your clit.”

His hands grope the globs of your ass, and he lifts you up, only to let your cunt suck him back up, and a pleasured sigh releases from your mouth. “See. Try it. But just move to make it feel good. I’m enjoying the view of these little bitty titties. Maybe you can make them bounce.”

“You’re so gross.”

You awkwardly move over him a few times, glad it’s Ransom and not some random man that would realize how inexperienced you are. “Here,” he grabs your hands, placing them on his chest, “This anchors yourself, but also makes those tits look phenomenal. Arch your back, and pop your ass, and then contract it. Don’t overcomplicate the movement. And add pressure to me. It won’t hurt, I promise.”

“Pinky promise?”

He smiles, smacking your ass. His face lighting up when you yip, “I promise, now ride that dick,” you want to make a comment to him, but instead it comes out in a weird moan. “You like that, huh?”

“Like what?”

Ransom gets the most devious look on his face, and he grabs your hips, assisting a slow bounce on top of him. “You like someone talking dirty to you? Like hearing that your pussy is so fucking tight hugging my fat cock? Do you like knowing you look like a beautiful little slut, instead of a perfectly poised ballerina? Your training is better suited riding my cock like you own it.”

Your legs tremble with his words. You feel that you’re killing Ransom with how much pressure you have on his chest, but still he talks too filthy to you. “You’re taking me extra deep at this angle, huh? And if you want me to fuck you into the bed, you better make yourself come first.”

“Ransom,” you mewl, finding the most perfect rhythm to take him. Bouncing on top of him quickly. “Hugh,” you feel his cock throb inside of you, and fall on top of his chest, continuing to buck your hips on him. “I feel your heartbeat.”

“You’re laying on my chest, Belle, of course you do. You’re taking me so good, too.”

“No,” his hands smooth up and down your arms, and you feel so safe. Protected in ways that nobody else could. Ransom has always been your best friend. You're solid. The best thing that’s ever happened to you. You would share everything with him. Your life, your dreams, and now your body. “I feel your heart inside of me.”

You sling yourself off Ransom’s stomach, watching his handsome face contort. “Do I feel good?”

“This is best pussy I have ever felt,” he whispers. His fingers create bruises on your skin with how tightly he holds you. “Let me know if I hurt you. I’m trying not to come yet,” you nod, continuing to move over top of him. Whimpering at the sounds the your two wet bodies make in his quiet bedroom. “It’s the best, Belle. Because I actually love you. Put your hands on my thighs, and back.”

“But…you’re going to see everything.”

“That’s the point,” he lifts your hands off his chest. His crooked smirk makes him look more boyish than manlike. “We like seeing your body, but also seeing us slipping into you,” with your mouth turning into an ‘O’, and you do as he asked. Keeping your eyes on him, but he stares at your cunt swallowing him whole.

He looks beautiful watching you. You could almost see a life with the two of you as more than friends, but as lovers. Waking up and riding him every morning. Could anyone make you feel as comfortable as Ransom? Could they know the right things to say and when to say it? Could they also tease you, but never go too far? But if you chose that path with Ransom would it ruin the most perfect thing in your life? Would it be worth it to not have him in your life?

You hated to think about a life without Ransom. Without being the only one to make him smile. You were just as special to him as he was to you. And you cherish him. Even in this lewd act of the two of you changing your relationship in a way, but it feels right. It doesn’t seem grotesque of Ransom to watch your pussy. Even the way he pushes his thumb against your bundle of nerves and creates tight little circles on your skin, it seems to be for your enjoyment. He always makes everything about him.

He adds more pressure. Going faster. Faster. Smiling as your movements become harsh. Rapid. Too much. Body shivering as you set ablaze. Throwing your head back to look up at the ceiling as you sob out his name.

“Beautiful,” he whispers, but it’s so soft, like he doesn’t want you to hear.

You look back down at Ransom, and he gazes up at you like you’re a goddess. “Ran…”

”Get on your knees,” shimmying your shoulders, you position yourself like he asked. Waiting and watching as he climbs behind you. “Lean forward, and closer to the bed. Arch your back,” you do as you're told, but keep your eyes on him. He studies you like you’re a work of art. Running the tip of his head through your folds, you sink even lower, “There’s a good girl. Do you know how swollen your pussy is?”

“Is that a good thing?”

“Uh huh,” he slams himself into your warmth, and you cling to the blankets, crying out. “And I’m about to make her even more puffy,” his movements are all shocking. Skyrocketing your body further up the bed, and making your toes curl in pleasurable agony. Something so rough, shouldn’t feel this good, and yet it’s made you speechless, and gives you a loss of function in your body. It’s just euphoria.

Nothing else matters in this world but the way Ransom is railing into you. The way he grunts with every thrust. The girls he’s probably fucked didn’t matter because there’s no way he fucks them the way he does you. There’s no way that he stares at their cunt like it could solve the world’s problems. And there’s no way that he feels about them the way he feels about you.

You’ve always known that Ransom and you belonged together, but is being together this way so wrong? Is the way that he’s lighting you up, so fucking bad? You’ll probably feel differently when this is over, but right now this is too good to be wrong or a bad idea. This is everything. He’s everything. Everything with you.

“And when you want the best angle,” his arm goes under your stomach, and he pulls your back up to his chest, and somehow manages to fuck into you harder. “I get to see these perfect tits bounce around,” a hand goes around your neck, and you yearn for more pressure. “You have to tell me. Give me permission.”

“Own me. I’m yours,” he adds enough pressure around your neck, so that stars glitter in front of you. His other hand moves down your front where he stimulates your clit, and you scream, “Ransom!”

“I see all of you,” Ransom attaches his mouth to your neck, nipping, and sucking over the column until your eyes are rolling to the back of your head. Your stomach swimming with pleasure.

“I feel all of you,” you can’t stop the sounds from pouring out of your body, and the fluids. My god, why is everything so wet and sloppy? “My perfect, sloppy little slut. You know, I have a secret to tell you.”

“Come inside of me,” you’d hear about the secret later. “Your mom brought the pill. Just do it!” Everything happens so fast. His hands move around your body. Pulling, pinching, slapping, squeezing. What is this? What even is happening besides heaven?

You can’t take it anymore. This much pleasure can’t be good for one person, and you let go. Giving into the salacious pleasure, “No one has ever taken my entire cock,” Ransom says on your neck, and your walls clench down, holding him in a vice grip. Pulsing and fluttering around his body, until warm ribbons of cum burst into your belly, and you sigh. Relaxing in his embrace.

Nobody ever would feel this absolute. Because you were made for Ransom. He is so gentle as he lays you down on his bed. Walking into his en-suite with his cute tush bare to you. “Where are you going?”

He returns with a wet washcloth, and you roll over onto your back, “You’re doing that thing you did last night. What are you staring at?”

“Watching myself leak out of someone for the first time. And yeah, that thing I did last night is cleaning you up. Never settle for a man that doesn’t want to give you the best aftercare, and cuddle afterwards,” oh. So he was still in the mindset of this was just practice amongst friends. You can be, too. He was right after all, a messy breakup wasn’t worth losing a friendship.

He tosses the rag into his hamper before dropping down onto the bed, “What’s the next lesson, Ran?”

“Sucking cock like a porn star. You want to watch porn together?” you giggle, rolling your eyes at him before plopping onto the bed. Scooting closer to him.

“What?” You snuggle in closer with him. Desiring nothing more than his sticky skin on yours.

“How will you know what you want, if you don’t see what else is out there?” There is a bit of logic to this, but watching porn with Ransom would be weird, right?

“We can watch porn, if you promise to try it out with me. Just to see if I like it?” Ransom shrugs as he smiles, clicking on his phone a bit. “I’m serious!”

“You’re addicted to sex, and to my cock. Careful, Belle, I might have to dump you like the rest of them,” rolling your eyes, you settle back beside Ransom, clicking on a video before it casts to his tv. “Seriously? My stepsister let me creampie her tight little pussy?”

“No! I just clicked on something!” Mortified, you hide your face in his chest.

“You’ve ruined the algorithm now. It’s going to be step sibling porn the rest of the evening now.”

“What about best friends?”

“Is that we are?” You nod your head, and Ransom ignores you, clicking on his phone. “Here, playing truth or dare with my best friend until she lets me fuck her until I bust a load. This should satisfy your filthy self.”

“Maybe you shouldn’t be so good at sex.”

“Just promise me you won’t just fuck random guys. You deserve a relationship, okay?” You hold up a pinky, and Ransom wraps his own around yours. “Alright, slut, and I mean that in the most nice way possible,” and please, don’t fall in love with anyone but Ransom.

“Whore.”

“Ransom!” Ransom stares up at his mom, scowling. Years without you had hardened him. Years without your softness, and giggles, and private performances on a daily basis, and years without the way you felt on top of him. It’d been miserable. But he was trying to be happy that you had found your one.

“She’s in town,” Ransom shrugs. “Rain is in the forecast,” he smirks, pushing his chair back. “Be nice.”

“I’m always nice.”

Next

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[duchezss]

My favorite details/new moments from The Little Mermaid (2023)

Buckle in this is gonna get long cause i’m obsessedddd

EVERYTHING (jk...kinda) 

Ariel not being allowed to go up to the surface at all in the first place, so when she went up to Eric’s ship during his birthday party it felt that much more defiant from her

That they explained right away that Ariel’s mother was killed by a human, and that helps explain much of Triton’s hatred 

Humans hate/fear mermaids as much as mermaids fear humans, it really makes the divide between Eric and Ariel feel more tense

The fact that the daughters were all getting together for an annual meeting rather than a concert. I really did miss daughters of Triton, but I also really liked how they are portrayed as leaders of the ocean

How Ariel helped Max swim to the lifeboat 😭 😭 

How Eric’s compassion is shown right away, and that’s the main thing that intrigues Ariel, not just his looks

Eric’s mother forbidding him from sailing again after the shipwreck, it makes him feel cut off and mirrors Triton banning Ariel from land

Ariel’s not instantly in love with Eric, she’s taken by him, but her love of the human world is equally acknowledged

That Ursula talks directly to Ariel and it’s not her Eels speaking for her

Can I say the entire sequence of For The First Time? It was so cool to see Ariels inner dialogue and the whole buildup to Eric “meeting” Ariel for the first time was fantastic 

How much Eric’s Library mirrors Ariel’s Grotto, and how their love for their passions really connect them. I loved these scenes because it really felt like they were bonding

Ariel immediately smashing that stone, I felt that really set the stage for how Ariel would open Eric’s eyes to even the simplest of things

“My little mermaid” melts...

That the kingdom was based on Caribbean culture instead of European, I really nice touch that makes the remake have a vibe of it’s own

When Ariel stops and takes notice of how kind and compassionate Eric is, and when Eric stops and takes notice of how curious and lively Ariel is

Jodi Benson’s cameo 😭 😭 

Originally I didn’t like that Ariel couldn’t remember she had to kiss Eric, and thought it just made pointless conflict, but it was actually very cute. It caused both of their feelings to be entirely true, and even caused some cute moments of Eric chasing after Ariel. 

Ariel and Eric sneaking back into the castle and just being silly goofy guys

Eric’s hat had a lot of focus and I thought it was very cute ngl

The symbolism of Ariel’s dress and Eric’s mermaid statue to each other. Both were lost when one thought the other was gone, only for them to come back

How even under Vanessa’s spell Eric still longed for Ariel 

The party being for an engagement instead of a wedding, made it feel more realistic

The party being at the castle instead of on the ship, originally I wasn’t a fan, but I thought it made the scene where Ariel runs to the castle more tense than when she swam for the boat

Grimsby kicking away the ring, what a wingman

Ariel cat fighting with Vanessa for the necklace instead of her being more passive in the fight for the shell

Eric hugging Ariel when he finds out she’s a mermaid instead of standing there in shock, by far my favorite small detail from the movie I love them so much 😭 

Eric trying to stop Ursula when she was coming after Ariel

Ariel yelling for Eric when Ursula grabbed her versus Eric yelling for Ariel in the original

How when they surfaced both of them had to look for each other rather than finding one another right away

Every time they were deep in the water Ariel would grab Eric and help pull him up to the surface 

Ariel saving Eric at the end, I actually found myself liking the change

Even after both of them went back to their respective worlds, they both still longed for each other, I liked this small break rather that her turning back human right away

When they first see each other again, they hug and then kiss, not just go straight for the kiss, that was a slay

Their marriage signifying more of a union between humans and merfolk

THERE WAS JUST SO MANY CUTE THINGS I LOVE THIS MOVIE MWAH

[khreborns]

A little late since his Birthday already passed—but any relationship headcanons for Tsuna? Maybe some bonus birthday ones? 🧡

╰┈➤Apologies for the lateness. Thank you for sending this in! Happy belated birthday to the wonderful Neo-Vongola primo!!

𖥔 ˖ PAIRING  : y/n x Tsuna 𖥔 ˖ WARNING  : pre-established relationship. Gender-neutral y/n. Hopelessly Tsuna.

.𖥔 ˖  TSUNA . .ᐟ.ᐟ

Hopelessly in love ━━━ Tsuna has been in love with you long before you two even got together. He dreamt of you often, both at night and throughout the day. He'd often get scolded or smacked over the head by Reborn depending on when this happened*. Even after Tsuna and you got together, he was still so hopelessly in love. If anything it got worse...it isn't surprising to see him look as though he were floating while having the goofiest expression on his face, just because he was thinking of you, which was most times.

Hopeless with proposal━━━ it took a long time for Tsuna to get the courage to propose to you. He was so afraid that this would be the moment his amazing relationship with you would shatter. There was no way he could be happy for so long, right? When you accepted his proposal, in spite of the fact it was utterly ruined (Tsuna's entire plan got messed up, his suit was covered in mud and he had LOST the engagement ring and thus improvised using his own sky ring as a place holder for this moment. ) You felt this was the perfect proposal, it captured your beloved so perfectly and so you two shared a tearful kiss under the moonlight.

Hopeless with "family" ━━━ surprisingly the wedding planning was more difficult than expected. Tsuna was more than willing to allow you to choose whatever you liked! The venue, the flowers, the decorations...all of this you had full discretion over. He just wanted to be by your side as you picked and planned the wedding. At one point you had to talk to him about having more input, it was sweet seeing how happy he was just to be with you but wedding planning was stressful. He straightened up as soon as you brought that up. The most difficult hurdle, however, was invitations. Tsuna wanted his mom there but not his father. He was adamant that Iemitsu shouldn't be there. Of course, Reborn wasn't going to allow that: "think of how that'd look, Tsuna. You can't not have your father there. This is a crucial time for Neo Vongola's growth, we don't need the other families looking down on us further." And so Tsuna became adamant that "if he must be there, then he has to sit in the back next to the toilet!" He also wanted Reborn to be seated where the father of the groom ought to be. This once again caused another clash between the two. "You can't do that either, dame-Tsuna..." Reborn said through pursed lips. "You know how bad that'd look, right?" Still he didn't want to budge. Reborn only managed to get part of his way due to you having to step in. Why did you? Because you knew how much it hurt Tsuna but you also didn't want the increase hardship of more families judging the Neo Vongola. You reminded him, "Tsu-kun, this is only for appearance sake. We both know who your real father is." Tsuna eventually relented in allowing Iemitsu that seat but Reborn was at the same table with Reborn's place card stated: "Reborn, father figure."*

Hopeless with chores ━━━ it was a big adjustment when you two finally moved in together. Tsuna was incredibly happy, of course, and scrambled to not be a "complete loser" in front of you. He was torn between walking on cloud nine just being able to see you every day versus not wanting to look bad in your eyes. Imagine his utter shock when he managed to do that without thinking. Tsuna can be rather thoughtless and he never had to clean up after himself living with Nana, and then living with Gokudera in the college dorms...of course, when you two decided to live together, he immediately cleaned the place up until it was shining (he called it the Week of Hell) but what Tsuna forgot about was...homes need upkeep. He was utterly mortified when you finally approached him, looking displeased. "Tsu-kun...I need to talk to you about cleaning up after yourself..." He wanted to die!! You were definitely going to divorce him!! Thankfully you didn't but Tsuna never slipped up on chores again...

Hopeless with conflict━━━ you two really didn't have arguments or even disagreements. However that was more so due to have incredibly conflict avoidant Tsuna is. Trying to have a conversation about your relationship was like pulling teeth. He didn't want to have to do it, he'd rather ignore it and if you did manage to get him to sit down and "talk" he'd rather just do whatever you said. It took a long time to get Tsuna to understand that these conversations didn't mean your relationship would be destroyed. In fact, not being able to talk was what would do that. Once again Tsuna immediately tried to straighten up. This was not as smooth as a transition because he really was so avoidant...but he tried. He'd shake, sweat and clam up but he'd try to communicate better with you. It just took some...no, a long time but he'd eventually spit his words out.

Hopeful with birthdays ━━━ his birthday was the one time in the year Tsuna could always count on when he was a kid. That was a day dedicated just to him! He could get whatever he wanted and was given a lot of affection. Birthdays became even better after he made friends (that one year not included, of course.) He thinks, however, that birthdays spent with you were the most precious of all. They were never actually on his birthday after he became Neo Vongola Primo, *Reborn said he had to throw an extravagant party on the day but you always made sure to celebrate with him a day after. A day just for Tsuna, a day where he got to spend with the love of his life. It led to Oct 15th being a cherished day in his heart.

Asterisk explanations:

*I believe that once Tsuna becomes a boss officially, their relationship dynamic changes due and Reborn won't physically hit Tsuna anymore, nor will he be forthcoming about opinions. This will make Tsuna sad but Reborn is an "underling" and so keeps this line drawn for the most part. That "Dame-Tsuna" was said through gritted teeth for a reason.

*Reborn was happy inside that Tsuna felt so strongly about him but seeing the looks he got and how Iemitsu kept going "hey why are you here, Reborn?" With a laugh (this behaviour worsening the more drunk Iemitsu got) made Reborn consider kicking Tsuna in the shins.

*Tsuna will only relent on the extravagant birthday parties if Reborn is also celebrated on that day. Reborn reluctantly agrees, he is actually both embarrassed yet happy Tsuna does this for him. Not that anyone could tell.

[redd956]

thoughts about worldbuilding wedding ceremonies/traditions?

:0! Why of course!

Worldbuilding Wedding Ceremonies

When I think about worldbuilding weddings in fantasy settings, I actually look for inspiration in IRL ceremonies from around the world. Things like engagements, weddings, and even divorces are strong moments of culture. They shine through a lot of gender-based ideology, religious beliefs, traditions, and family matters. So where to start...

Length of Ceremony

As a young adult it is my task to attempt to avoid weddings in the name of length of the ceremony. In the United States someone might consider a several hour long wedding as long, but what about a wedding ceremony that lasts many days or several weeks, maybe different rituals on different days

One could even argue that the common wedding in the United States does last several days due to the bachelor and bachelorette party.

Some things to think about

amount of days/time the wedding takes place

the time of day it's usually started/ended

how long it takes participants to convene to the ceremony

Depending on the length of the ceremony we also have to take into account things like food, the bride/grooms first night, the venue, etc.

how expensively is the venue decorated?

does everyone cook and bring food? or are caterers hired?

Is there any form of dance to pastime

Are recreational drugs or drink provided?

Garments

Around the world garments and/or accessories play a major role in marriage, divorce, death, and romance. Engagements already focus on a shiny ring.

In many cultures there is a focus on one gender's (usually women's) attire. Think about the beautiful wedding gown seen in many Western weddings. There's many cultures that also do specialized attire for both men and women (like India). In some ceremonies, like Russian Orthodox, the bride and groom are crowned before their vows and kiss.

We can make the attire special in more ways then just appearance/one day wearing

Some ideas here

Attire being passed down tailored to married participants generationally

Expensive, or magically enchanted materials being used

Being given magical artifacts such as necklaces, rings, or earrings with properties of protection, family abilities, or just luck.

Differing clothing for gender of the married participants versus the same clothing

Usage of sacred materials

Color symbolism (many wedding attires around the world are different colors based on the color symbolism of the culture)

It's also important to think about how garments can change based on species, gender, ethnic background, preference, and even sometimes age.

Here are some wedding attire small few examples from different places

India

Tibetan

Ghana

Traditions: The Married

Throughout history there have been many traditions for the married (most of which are frowned upon for very good reasons nowadays and include sexuality/child bearing or money).

Many are traditions or activities done during the marriage ceremony, many the following weeks to months afterwards (such as the honey moon). Most traditions centering the married are focused on the stronger blossoming relationship (portrayed) between the couple.

However even in modern times the traditions of the married are changing as queer relationships, and more diverse religious gatherings are becoming more and more common.

Some things to take into account

Are the feelings of all newly weds taken into account?

What kind of traditions are dying? What ones are continuing?

How do these things differ among income classes?

Are gifts exchanged? Any particular special speeches?

Any lewd activities?

Is marriage sealed with a kiss or another action?

Traditions: The Family

Marriage is often also celebrated as the combining of two families. Depending on how family oriented the culture is, the brides/grooms may not be the full center of attention on their special night.

Perhaps the parents receive gifts. Maybe only one of the married family are expected to appear. Do the married participants even meet each other before marriage?

Some things to think about

How important are the married participants' parents to the ceremony?

Is there gift giving? Dowries? Arranged Marriages?

Are participants forced to make any promises aside from marriage?

Do parents bring things for one another?

Traditions: The Guests

Next comes the guests. The very first thing to decide about guests when it comes to marriage ceremonies is who is allowed to invite them and how many commonly show up.

Guests can be expected to do a plethora of traditions, ranging from party-like participation to assisting the married participants. In many wedding ceremonies guests are broken into hierarchies/roles, such as the maid of honor, bridesmaids, best man, etc.

Religion & Other

However one of the second greatest influences aside from the married participants is of course religion in culture. Think about all the religious inspired or just straight up localized traditions appear in average American wedding.

Some things to think about

Are any sacred creatures, symbols, people, or accessories included in the ceremony?

How does the married participants' religion affect the ceremony?

Does sexuality or other queer features (polygamy, open relationships, etc.) play a major role?

Give me the tonal atmosphere of the culture in marriage. Does a warrior culture gift expensive weapons to the newly married? Does a militaristic people play an anthem in the name of the married veterans? Does a druidic culture always seal the married kiss under an ancient tree?

[voldemorts-tap-shoes]

Era #3 of @cruelsummer-ficfest

Red ❤️ / Lover 💗

Nothing New

Ron didn’t bat an eye when she said they should postpone the wedding.

While everyone else was distracted squealing over Ginny’s lavish ring and slapping Harry on the back in congratulations, Ron had looked over at her from across the living room at the Burrow, and she got the sense that they both knew it was coming. Knew the words she would say when they stepped out into the orchard for a breath of fresh air, away from the suffocating happiness of the new engagement, because she’d had them stuffed away for a while and Ron had always been extremely perceptive—that was nothing new.

And it wasn’t even about Harry and Ginny; that was just the spark that lit the mountain of insecurities building up inside her. They were supposed to get married in a month, and at this point, cold feet would have been an improvement.

Ron hadn’t even argued with her, just nodded and said, “I’ll tell Mum,” and though Hermione knew that the news would break Molly’s heart, she also knew that with those three words, everything would be taken care of. Molly would take care of everything because Molly was great at taking care of things. Hermione wasn’t even great at taking care of Ron, and worse at taking care of herself. What about the everything else that would come along once they were married—a house, a family? What if she couldn’t do it? Ron deserved better.

So he’d gone inside and told his mum to postpone the wedding—postpone, not cancel, she was very clear about that. Hermione had followed and told Ginny she was happy for her before she went home and cried herself to sleep.

***

They still kept separate flats for reasons they’d never bothered to look too closely at, always quick with a rationale. Hermione’s place was closer to work. Ron kept odd hours working his shifts as an Auror. They slept most nights together at one place or the other, anyway, so what difference did it make if they hadn’t officially lived under the same roof since Hogwarts?

At least, it hadn’t felt like it made a difference until the old beaded bag Hermione used as an overnighter sat untouched in her closet for a week, and she went to sleep every night in a bed too big for just her, bribing Crookshanks with treats so there was some warmth between the sheets to sooth the nightmares she had never managed to fully squash.

They still saw each other every day, and the simple diamond ring never left its place on Hermione’s finger, and she told herself that it wasn’t a big deal, the pause they had put on their wedding. It wasn’t like they had broken up.

But sometimes at night, sharing a bed with only her second-favorite ginger, it felt like they had.

***

Ginny wanted to look at wedding dresses right away, because of course she did. She looked radiant in everything, lighting up the room in one gorgeous gown after the next. People love an ingenue, and Ginny certainly was that, between her meteoric rise to Quidditch stardom and her fairytale romance with the Boy-Who-Lived-Long-Enough-to-Defeat-Voldemort. Witch Weekly was already heralding the Potter-Weasley wedding as the social event of the year—though which year wasn’t specified, as they hadn’t even set a date yet.

Hermione wasn’t exactly faking smiles as Ginny changed from satin to lace to brocade, but she was definitely forcing them. She thought of the tulle monstrosity she had let her mum talk her into selecting, safely tucked away at the tailor’s for the time being, and took another large swig of champagne.

Maybe it was the dress. When they had started planning the wedding, they had discussed Muggle traditions versus wizarding ones and all the superstitions that went along with them. Apparently “don’t see the bride in her dress before the wedding” was a universal no-no, so when she wanted Ron’s opinion about the poofy princess gown, he had assured her she would look beautiful in whatever she picked—which was very sweet but not at all helpful.

As usual, Hermione hadn’t relented, and Ron finally agreed to let her show him something similar—he remained insistent that he didn’t want to see the dress—in one of the bridal magazines scattered around her flat. But he had just sort of shrugged and said, “I dunno, it looks pretty,” which also didn’t help, and so she had stuck with the decision but maybe also cursed their wedding in the process.

So maybe it was the dress.

***

“You didn’t have to come,” Ginny said later over dinner, when it was just the two of them and not every one of their female relatives and what felt like half of the Harpies team. “I shouldn’t have even asked, considering.”

Hermione rolled her eyes and scooped another mouthful of pasta. “I’m your maid of honour.”

“You’re my best friend first,” Ginny retorted. “I’m glad you were there, but—”

“No buts. I wouldn’t have missed it for the world.”

They ate in silence for a few minutes before Ginny spoke again. “You’ll figure it out, you know. It’s you and Ron. You always do.”

An innocent farfalle noodle bore the brunt of Hermione’s frustration as she stabbed it with her fork. “I think I really fucked it up this time.”

“Nah.” Ginny’s nonchalance was equal parts reassuring and infuriating. “You just need to figure out what’s bothering you. What scares you? Is it the wedding or is it the marriage?” Hermione didn’t answer immediately, taking another pesto-covered victim, and Ginny dropped her fork with a clatter, eyes wide. “Okay, I thought that would be an easy one.”

“Well, it’s both, but it’s not the marriage. I mean, it’s not about Ron.” If she was sure of anything, it was that her doubts were absolutely, definitely not about Ron. “It’s…marriage. In general. What if I’m not any good at it?”

“Not any good at what?”

“Wife things. The cooking and the cleaning and the taking care of kids…I’m terrible at that stuff.”

Ginny snorted. “Ron knows. Trust me, we all know.”

“Thanks for that.”

“I’m just saying. He knows who he’s marrying, Hermione.”

“But what if I don’t change? He’s already Victoire’s favorite uncle, so I know he’ll be super-dad when the time comes, and then will he still want me when I’m nothing new, the same old Hermione who burns baby formula and always picks out the wrong toy?”

“Okay, I hope this is as stupid a question as I think it is but…does Ron want you to change?”

“Well, no—I mean, he hasn’t said—”

“Then you’re bloody mental. I say that with love.” Ginny reached across the table for Hermione’s hand. “Look, I can tell you this stuff until I’m blue in the face—and I will, if you want—but I think you need to hear it from Ron. It doesn’t mean anything coming from me.”

“I suppose you’re right.”

“I’m totally right. At the end of the day, you’ve got to have your head on straight going into this, so take whatever time you need. But talk to Ron. And if you need help re-planning the entire wedding, I’m your girl.”

“It has gotten a bit out of hand, hasn't it? My parents were just so excited about everything, especially my mum. I didn’t want to let them down.”

“I’ve only been engaged for a week, and I’ve already seen all too well how the plans just spiral when you’re the only daughter. I’m sure it’s worse as an only child. But it’s not their wedding.”

“You’re right again.”

“No shit.” Ginny gave her a soft smile to balance the quip. “Talk to Ron,” she said again. “You’ll figure it out.”

***

She’d had too much to drink tonight, champagne at the bridal shop followed by merlot at dinner, which should have knocked her clean out til morning. But it was the middle of the night, and Hermione was awake.

Hermione was awake, and she wanted Ron.

His flat was silent when she Flooed in, and for a moment she almost turned around and went home, not wanting to wake him up, too. But then she heard her name from his bedroom, his voice low and questioning and enticing, and her feet carried her toward the sound without hesitation.

Ron was half sitting up in bed, and he didn’t look like he’d been woken by her arrival. He probably hadn’t been sleeping either, though he didn’t look half the wreck she knew she did. She thought she’d utterly ruined things between them, but he looked just the same as always. Maybe he wasn’t as torn up by the wedding postponement as she was.

Or maybe she just hadn’t ruined things and needed to stop jumping to all the worst conclusions.

Hermione slipped under the sheets beside Ron and tucked herself against his side, breathing out a contented sigh when his arms wrapped around her. “I’m glad you’re here,” he murmured. “I’ve missed you.”

“Missed you, too.” She pressed her nose against his neck and inhaled, letting the scent of sandalwood soothe her nerves. “I’m sorry.”

“Shh. Don’t be sorry.” His hand slid up and down her back, the motion tugging her t-shirt up to expose a strip of bare skin underneath, and she shivered as the cooler air hit it. Ron slept in practically nothing and still radiated heat, and she snuggled closer to him. “I just need to know you’re okay.”

“That depends.”

“On what?”

“You. Us.” She pulled away to look at him, afraid of what she would find in his expression. “How badly I’ve screwed things up.”

Ron leaned in and kissed her, and she let herself get lost in it for a moment before he pulled away to reply. “You haven’t.”

“You still want to marry me?”

“Anytime, anywhere.” He sat back and raised an eyebrow at her, and she felt like an entire ocean had formed between them. “But I’m not the one who wanted to postpone the wedding.”

“I’m sorry,” Hermione said again, and Ron shook his head.

“Don’t be sorry. Just talk to me. What’s going on?”

Hermione took a deep breath, trying to quiet all of the thoughts and fears that swirled in her mind enough to get the words out to explain. Ron may as well have been a boggart sitting there as anxiety took hold again. But a boggart didn’t have Ron’s bright blue eyes, full of love and concern for her, or the warm hand that enclosed her fingers in his with a gentle squeeze.

“I’m scared of failing.”

She watched his lips twitch up with half a smile, and she knew he was thinking what a Hermione thing to say, but he just nodded for her to continue.

“I’m scared I won’t be good enough for you, that I’ll be a terrible wife and a terrible mother and then we’ll just be biding our time until I lose your attention and you find someone else who can be those things for you.”

“Hermione,” Ron started, and her name was almost a laugh, because she was being ridiculous, and in her rational brain, she knew she was being ridiculous, but she just couldn’t shake it. “I don’t want anyone else. Not now, not ever. Did—” He turned suddenly serious as he paused. “Did I say something? Or do something, to make you feel—”

“No!” Hermione hurried to interject, and Ron’s face relaxed. “No, it’s not you at all. I’ve just—I don’t know. How can a person know everything at eighteen and nothing at twenty-two?”

“Hermione, you’ve forgotten more than most people know in a lifetime. What are you on about?”

“I know how I feel about you. I love you more than anything, it’s not that. When we were young and we had first gotten together, it all sounded so easy—to be fair, everything sounded easy at the time after the hunt and the locket and Voldemort—but I had this perfect little fantasy about our life together. Now that it’s here and it’s real—I’m just overwhelmed.”

Ron exhaled and then pulled her into his embrace again. She settled against him like she was made to fit there, her cheek against his chest, her legs braided with his, and she knew that everything would be okay. She wasn’t sure how or when, but everything would be okay as long as she had Ron.

“I can’t tell you that our life is going to be perfect, but I’d like to think we’re pretty damn close.”

“This feels pretty perfect, right now.”

“And all the things you’re worried about—being some master chef, and never putting a diaper on backwards, or whatever—Hermione, those aren’t the things that are going to make you a good wife or mum. The love you have for the people in your life is what makes you those things.”

“You’re right.”

“I usually am.”

“Prat.” Hermione chuckled and gave him a light slap on the arm. “I wish we could just get married like this. That’s the other thing, I let the wedding plans get way out of hand.”

“Okay. Why don’t we?”

“Why don’t we what?”

“Get married.”

“When?”

“Now. Tonight.”

“What do you mean? It’s the middle of the night.”

“I mean, the wedding is a party. The marriage is just a spell. Like an Unbreakable Vow, but…y’know, happier.” Ron untangled them enough to look her in the eye, to gauge her reaction, but she already knew what her answer would be to his crazy idea. “We’ll go wake up Harry or George or someone and have them do it. Just for us. No one else even has to know. And then, whenever we’re ready, we’ll have the wedding. As planned, or toned down if you’d rather. And look, you’re already wearing white.”

He tugged at the hem of her t-shirt—it was his, really, one of many things she had swiped from his wardrobe over the years—and gave her the grin she loved so much. Hermione smiled back as she replied, “This is completely mental, you know.”

“Well that’s nothing new, for us. Is that a yes?”

Hermione threw her arms around Ron’s neck and kissed him, pulling back only when she realized if they didn’t stop now they might not leave the bed til morning. And she didn’t want to wait any longer to marry the man she loved.

“Absolutely. Yes.”

[thegreatzombieartisan]

Rings of Power + Tolkien Fusion Meta

“I Found It On a Dead Man”: Some Theories on Why Sauron Kept the Pouch

What made the pouch hold so much significance that Sauron keep it for a millennium?

*

Theories of circumstances where Sauron might've taken the pouch

Sauron actually did find it on a dead man before Morgoth fell.

Sauron killed the last king before Morgoth fell.

Sauron killed the last king after Morgoth fell.

Scenario One: He actually found it on a dead man.

Since it’s suggested that Morgoth and the Southlands king would be allies, then Sauron didn't kill the king. Perhaps during a battle against the mutual enemy, the king was killed. Sauron found him dead among on the battlefield and took the pouch for an unknown reason.

Scenario Two: Sauron killed the last king before Morgoth fell

Perhaps it was a traitor's death or an impersonal political decision. Either way, killing a king holds gravitas. And when Morgoth needed a critical task carried-out, he'd send his chief servant.

Directly himself, - or in close proximity of servants who did - Sauron killed the king. Moreover, he likely also killed royal members around the same time, thus ending the line. It's improbable for an entire royal house to cease without nefarious intervention. Perhaps he pulled a Red Wedding.

Sauron took the pouch as proof for Morgoth that he carried-out the task as ordered.

Scenario Three: Sauron killed the last king after Morgoth fell

In contrast to lore, Sauron engages in fuckery for a while longer before attempting to "heal" Middle-Earth as penance. In this scenario, Sauron does wish to become Morgoth's successor and plans to carry-out his master's contingency plan. He kills the Southlands king in preparation for this.

He keeps the pouch as a “trophy” of the killing - as an act of dominance and humiliation.

Most likely?

I theorize Sauron killed the last Southlands king before Morgoth fell and kept the pouch as "proof" he'd carried out the task. But whykeep it?

The pouch symbolizes Sauron's existence within a fragile liminal between failed penitent and Dark Lord

What exactly made Sauron remove the pouch?

When Sauron accuses Galadriel of using him, he's noticeably upset versus angry. There's a tinge of hurt in his voice and face. And when she distorts his accusation, upset quickly becomes anger, provoking him to aggressively remove the pouch etc. Sauron’s breaking point is Galadriel’s gaslighting.

His S1 main character motif is honesty while maintaining his true identity / seeking "peace."

Sauron's emphasis on honesty serves to distance himself from a dark past of his intentionally harmful lies and deceit. A past Tolkien wrote that Sauron felt ashamed, which leads to avoidant behavior. Sauron's demonstrates this in his flight from Middle-Earth and near begging for Galadriel to leave him be.

But also honesty to seek distance from a past where he was deceived and exploited

Over several millennia, Morgoth and Sauron never had discord. Or so Tolkien said. I call bullshit given seeing how Morgoth is emotionally volatile. Moreover, wildly opposing goals.

But it was said Sauron admired Morgoth "at the beginning." TRoP seems to interpret this as Sauron eventually becoming disillusioned with Morgoth's bullshit. It's more than fair to assume this rapey, nihilistic terrorist would've lied and exploited even to his chief servant.

Thus, Sauron removing the pouch might be a silent declaration to Galadriel, and the malingering spectre of Morgoth:

“Don’t fuck with my reality. Don’t tell me who I am so you can use me for your own purposes. Never again.”

(Not even a fair and feisty Elf with gold silver hair.)

Removing the pouch is also accepting his own adequacy

"I failed because I'm not good enough. It is what it is." In a way, had he continued to believe, it might've lead to a humility that extinguished the most harmful aspects of Sauron's dark impulses.

Head canon: What happened

The pouch symbolizes the moment Sauron honors the internal schism from his master.

Perhaps after carrying-out the assassination, Sauron presents the Southlands king pouch to Morgoth. He then asks for his reward: implementing an idea from his own vision.

But Morgoth rejects his request. The time isn't right. Think of something else. Sauron initially thinks he's still being punished for losing Tor-in-Gaurath .But no —the "time" its been a long time since since any of his ideas were even given serious consideration X. The time will never be right, would it?

This is it. The moment Sauron can no longer lie to himself. He and Morgoth were no longer on a mutual arc. Moreover, that he’s been weaponized for Morgoth’s personal, nihilistic agenda. And this secret divergence in allegiance makes space for empathy trickle back in; shame and guilt to grow.

Sauron leaves his audience with Morgoth, and unlike previous items of “proof”, he kept the pouch. Sometime thereafter, it comes to represents a promise to "heal" he and Morgoth's destruction for forgiveness.

Regrettably, his time with Morgoth has twisted him in ways perhaps irreparable. He’ll never fulfill his promise.

When Sauron joins the Southlands expedition, I don't think he yet has a formulated plan. WEekl, beyond seeking revenge on Adar. Fighting alongside an Elf and Men, especially against the orcs he helped create, is an wildly unexpected and novel experience. And he certainly didn't anticipate a bond forming between he and the Elf.

What he does know is that whatever the future brings, Galadriel is there. Now the dead king's pouch becomes a mere prop to it, for what she offers is something far more powerful.

Hope and possibly more.

Thank you for reading! Like and reblogs are appreciated. Got feedback?

What did you like? Got theories or insights to share?

Disagree? I love good faith debate and sparring!

Need clarity on something or feedback on readability?

Spot an inaccuracy? Hey, Tolkien's work is complex. Drop it in comments or DM.

[frangipanidownunder]

Hi Vicky :) I have a prompt if you've got time and creativity for one... How does Maggie and Scully's first meeting go after they return from being on the run? I love looking at how Maggie relates to the other characters, and she's been fairly popular in the chat recently.... would you write that scene?

I WROTE A THING! This prompt is super old but it caught my attention today so I scribbled this quick fic in response. Apologies for my rustiness.

Belonging

Rated G. Angst. IWTB era.

She arranges to meet her at a café in the next town over. The house is out of the question. She doesn’t feel she belongs there yet. She doesn’t feel she belongs anywhere yet. She hasn’t belonged for a long time. A different Scully, would have once said she belonged to the X-Files, to the team, to the ideals that propped up the unit, to the belief. Would she have pulled up short at considering she belonged to Mulder? At one time, perhaps she did. Perhaps he belonged to her too, and they were two halves of a whole, not just a working partnership, but an embodiment of one force against another. The truth versus the lies. But now she’s not sure. Fox Mulder belongs to his own private thoughts and dreams, to the scribblings in his study, to the unintelligible murmurings in his sleep. She spends her days orbiting his moods, trying not to relent to the gnawing feelings of resentment and doubt. The house was supposed to plant them in the now and offer a starting block for their future together. But if anything, it seems to have tugged open the stitches of his past wounds and he is spiralling into a dark place where she cannot, will not, follow.

She pulls up in the parking lot next to a small strip of shops where the café promises an hour of comfort and escape behind its quaint façade.  At least, that’s what Scully hopes she’s coming for. As she walks past the other outlets offering antiques, artisanal bread and baked goods, home-made toys, clothing that reminds her of Missy, so much so that she has to stop and breathe. She dry-swallows and blinks away memories of a home long ago, where she did belong, a home where boundaries were drawn and aspirations were shared and secrets were whispered in moonlit bedrooms as things to be held in awe, not buried with unspoken horrors and stunted futures.

She pushes open the door, twenty minutes early, enough time to settle and plan her conversation, think about which moments from the past few years to share and which to gloss over. Which to deny outright. Her mind is sifting through towns and motels and cars and arguments and hair-colours and close-calls with cops and receptionists and surrendering, when Maggie walks in. Also early. Also looking pensive, tired, and perhaps, Scully thinks, a little angry by the way she clips across the floor and pulls out the chair opposite to slip off her coat and hang it, rather than hugging her daughter first.

“Dana, honey,” she says at last, holding the back of Scully’s head in her small, still-gloved hand, denying her the feel of her wedding and engagement rings pressed into her skull, “I’ve missed you so much. Where did you go?” She pulls away and holds Scully’s cheeks, the wool from her gloves cool and wiry against her skin. Maggie’s eyes are watery, maybe from the cold, maybe not. She repeats her rhetorical question in a strained whisper that Scully barely hears over the hum of the coffee machine. “Where did you go?”

“Everywhere, nowhere,” Scully replies, sinking into the chair and chuffing out a bitter laugh. “But we’re back now.”

Maggie removes her gloves and Scully sees the knots of arthritis in her knuckles, the liver spots, the way her rings clank around her too-thin fingers. “How’s Fox?”

“He sends his love,” Scully says, picking up the menu, unable to meet her mother’s enquiring eyes. She’d left him hunched over his desk and told him she was going to get some plants for the yard. She can see rows of tomatoes and beans and corn, she can hear the gentle give of young carrots being freed from the earth, she can imagine him in a sun-hat swigging water from a canteen as he nurtures life from the soil. But she knows it’s her dream. She can only share it with him in the hope that it seeps into his consciousness and pulls him out of his backward-looking slump.

The waiter comes over and they order the same, black coffee, a slice of the vegetable quiche. They smile, turn at the sound of a baby’s cries from a pram stowed next to a table at the back. It’s mother rocks the handle but the baby doesn’t settle. A hard knot sits in the base of Scully’s throat. The crying ramps up to wailing and the mother scoops the infant from its bed and nestles it against the crook of her neck.

“Tara’s expecting again,” Maggie says, “early days. They haven’t announced it yet, but you’re…” Scully thinks she’s about to say ‘family’ but Maggie says ‘home now, so they can tell you themselves. Bill would love to see you.”

“We’re still settling in,” Scully adds quickly. “Boxes everywhere. You know how it is.”

Maggie doesn’t say anything and Scully can feel a shift in the atmosphere. The baby has quietened. The coffee is delivered and the aromatic steam wafts between them. Maggie’s chin tilts, her nostrils flare slightly.

“You should have told me you were going, Dana. You should have told me and I could have been there for you. Instead, I had to sit, night after night, not knowing anything, going mad with worry that you’d…”

“Mom,” she starts. The baby gurgles and Scully twists her hair over her ear so she doesn’t have to hear its sweet noises.

“No, let me finish,” Maggie snaps in a low whisper. “I thought you were dead. You and Fox. Assassinated or whatever word they use for these sorts of things. It was worse than when you were taken by that…that man. At least I had Fox then, keeping me informed, doing something to find you. This time there was nobody. Not even Skinner would help.”

“He couldn’t, Mom. It would have implicated…”

“I don’t care, Dana.” Maggie’s voice is high and strained and the mother on the other table hugs her baby a little tighter as the waiter clears his throat to deliver the quiches. When he’s gone, Maggie leans forward. “I’m your mother. I deserved to know. Bill went wild. He’s still wild.”

“Bill was born wild,” she says but regrets it instantly. She isn’t in the position to offer character assessments.

“He’s right, you know,” and Maggie doesn’t wait for Scully to ask about what, “that since you met Fox, your life hasn’t been your own. He’s pulled you away from everything you held dear. Used to hold dear. Family, the church, the law. And for what?”

The baby chuckles and the mother laughs too. She wants to scream that she has her own mind, that Mulder is family, that the church is a rock to return to, but not an anchor to weigh her down, that the law is a joke and justice is personal.

Instead, she sighs. “We couldn’t tell anyone, Mom. It was safer that way.”

“For who? Me or you?”

The icy cut of truth in Maggie’s words chills Dana and she sips her coffee, trying to stop the tremble in her hands. The baby giggles again and this time she turns towards it, her, a girl with large blue eyes and a perfect mouth and a shock of dark hair and she feels the familiar sting of tears, the burn in her nose, the squeezing pain her heart of all the things she’s lost. Time and family and careers and faith and…

Scully realises why she’s here. It’s not the comfort of being with her mother. It’s not the escape from Mulder’s exhausting moods. She’s here for reality. To be called out. To be exposed. To be seen. To be loved.

“I’m sorry, Mom,” she whispers, and reaches for Maggie’s hands, squeezing those rings into her palms and feeling the dig of the diamond clasp that contains her mother’s worry and her brother’s wrath and months of self-hatred and self-pity. She lets her forehead rest on the knot of their joint hands. Maggie drops a kiss on her crown. This is where she belongs.

[chryzuree]

3, 6, and 9 for all four categories; well no 9 in the first but for the three others lmao

I. PRE-RELATIONSHIP

3. Who felt romantic feelings first?

questions that genuinely make me stop and stare at the ceiling for ten minutes. who did feel romantic feelings first?? chrysi started flirting w gil first, but that was mostly bc she was running away frm the pain of losing azure + gil was one of theeeeee least likely ppl to fall in love w her. and she was rlly only flirting w him because it was a fun pastime. plus, a huge part of their relationship is them both not realizing their feelings for each other… hmmmm. so is it who knew they had romantic feelings first, or who developed the unaware crush first??

…. i think i’m going to say gil, then. mostly bc chrysi’s still so wrapped up in her pain of losing azure that she can’t tell if she genuinely likes gil or if he’s jst a good distraction.

6. What was their "flirting stage" like?

answered here :))

II. GENERAL

3. What was their first kiss like?

answered here <3

6. How do their personalities complement each other? How do they clash?

OH BOY. MY FAV TOPIC EVERRRR. bc chrysi and gil are both so similar (protective. defensive of those they love. oblivious to their feelings for convenience reasons) and yet soooo difference (violently codependent versus violently independent, clueless versus astute, off-balance versus deliberately startling) and it’s jst such a fun dynamic.. they complement each other when it gets down to protecting others. they work p well in battle, for example, and for a few shining moments, they feel understood..

but they clash violently when it comes to communication styles. such as: neither of them fucking communicate to save their lives, and it’s accidental on gil’s part and 100% on purpose on chrysi’s part.

idk if i’m making sense, but they’re soooo. they’.re. they are. i meaaaan. yeag.

9. Who gets jealous easier?

GILLLL, gil gil gil!!!!!!!!!!! chrysi’s using him most of the time, so whenever she sees gil w someone (coughs, dahlia frm the light novel), she’s like “huh. good for him <3” whereas gil is sweating and crying and throwing up any time he sees chrysi w/ another man. no, he doesn’t have feelings for her. yes, he wants to shrivel up and die when she gives someone else attention that’s not HIM. please, for the love of GOD!!!! he is RIGHT HERE!!!!

III. LOVE

3. Who uses the cheesy pick-up lines, or does corny gestures?

okay, so depending on the circumstance,, both do. chrysi does it bc it makes gil blush + it’s funny and cute!! gil does it bc break told him it would be a good idea (source: just trust me). that still makes gil blush and chrysi thinks it’s funny and cute, so it works in both directions :)) ((break is doing his older brother duties of embarrassing chrysi’s future boyfriend in front of her, since he won’t be there to see them actually get together…… oh. made myself a little sad there. okay, i have to leave.))

6. What are their favorite things to do together?

answered here!!

9. What reminds them of each other?

whenever chrysi sees ravens/crows, cigarettes, coffee shops, tea shops, white gloves, a black hat, a long black coat, she thinks of gil! she also thinks of him when she sees a pretty lighter & a pretty tin box. mostly bc she thinks that gil would find a use for it (and if he doesn’t, alice will steal it and use it instead!!)

gil thinks of chrysi whenever he sees a red dress, a parasol (??? chrysi has used one exactly ONE TIME, i’m NOT sure what’s going on in gil’s head tbh), BOOKS, SO MANY BOOKS, sketchbooks too <33 also pretty ring sets.. oz nearly convinced gil to buy an engagement set for chrysi bc it was so pretty. he was BATTLING to be the devil on gil’s shoulder. shame it didn’t work (oz is kicking rocks and pouting down the street. plan foiled.)

IV. DOMESTIC LIFE

3. What is the wedding like? Who attends?

answered here :D

6. Do they have any pets?

answered hereee

9. How do they celebrate holidays?

they spend SO MUCH TIME in the kitchen. gil doesn’t like having chrysi help cook bc she’ll get distracted if he doesn’t have a task for her going at all times, but she’s good at keeping the kitchen clean even as he’s cooking and such. nd when they aren’t in the kitchen, chrysi’s crawling into their bay window w a blanket and a book and she’s begging gil to join her PLEASEEEE bc they never get a break from keeping the abyss company’s :(( come here pleaseeeeee. he obliges, but only bc he loves her sososo much.

[allurejewellers-blogs]

Finding the Perfect Diamond Ring Stores in London: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

An engagement ring is a symbol of love that stays with a person for the rest of his life. Whether one is planning a proposal, looking for a gift, or marking a special occasion, finding the perfect ring is not an easy task. If you are searching for diamond ring stores in London, you simply cannot miss visiting Allure Jewellers, where endless options make your search excitingly overwhelming. This guide will help you navigate different types of diamond rings and find the ideal engagement ring.

Types of Diamond Rings

Natural Diamond Rings

A natural diamond is prized for its rarity and its timeless beauty. Each stone is unique, formed over billions of years deep within the Earth.  For those who are attracted to heritage and prestige, a natural diamond engagement ring is a classic choice.

Lab-Grown Diamond Engagement Rings

Lab-grown diamonds have the same luster and hardness as naturally grown ones but are produced under controlled conditions. They're gaining popularity because they are more eco-friendly and inexpensive without losing their good quality.

Vintage and Antique Diamond Rings

For those in search of something authentically unique, vintage or antique diamond rings are the exquisite options. They reflect very intricate craftsmanship and designs that represent past times, thereby setting them apart.

The Benefits of Lab Diamond Engagement Rings

Environmental and Ethical Benefits: Lab-grown diamonds are a sustainable option compared to traditionally mined diamonds. With the increased need for sustainability, a large number of people have preferred lab diamond engagement rings.

Cost Comparison: Lab versus Natural Diamonds: Lab-grown diamonds are cheaper compared to natural diamonds. On average, they are priced 30-40% lower than natural diamonds, thereby enabling couples to allocate their budget towards larger or higher-quality stone

Trends in Lab-Grown Diamond Jewelry: Lab-grown diamonds have gained popularity not only for engagement rings but also across a diverse array of jewelry, including earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Numerous jewelers in London currently display collections that prominently feature lab-grown diamonds.

Why Choose Allure Jewellers?

Allure Jewellers offers a wide choice of engagement rings; whether you are searching for engagement rings, wedding bands, or bespoke jewellery; Allure Jewellers serves to be an ultimate platform for meeting all such demands. Our UK engagement rings collection is designed to suit every style incorporating a range from classic solitaires to intricate halo settings.

Prefer to shop online or from the comfort of your own home? You may browse our beautiful selection and shop with ease through our website, where you can find detailed descriptions and high-resolution images of each item.

Visit our store in London's famous jewelers' district of Hatton Garden and let our professional team guide you to the ring of your heart. With Allure Jewellers, it's seamless, whether online or in-store shopping.

Original Source:

[goldconnection]

Enchanting Moonstone Engagement Rings for Mystical Brides

For brides who are searching for engagement rings in Sugar Land that are mystical, unique, and affordable, moonstone rings are the ideal choice for you. Moonstones were believed to have been formed from moonbeams and are considered sacred.

These ethereal stones were supposed to bring positive vibes to your big day and give you good dreams at night. Here are some reasons to choose a moonstone ring.

Reasons to choose moonstone rings

One of the main reasons why a lot of brides tend to prefer moonstone wedding rings in Sugar Land is that they are one-of-a-kind. Moonstones are perfectly suited to every budget and aesthetic.

You can either have a moonstone ring set with diamond accents and filigree details or choose to keep it simple and minimal. Moonstones are quite eco-friendly since a lot of jewelers only keep moonstones that are ethically sourced.

Just keep in mind that moonstones rate a six to six-point-five on the Mohs scale which makes it quite soft. If not cared for properly your stone could easily get chipped, scratched, or broken.

Your jewelry store in Katy, TX will tell you to look for rose gold as it pairs beautifully with your moonstone ring. You can even choose moonstones in two-stone, cluster, or as a side stone for a glam feel.

Some brides choose to set their moonstone center stone with smaller side white diamonds or a halo of diamonds for added shine and protection. You can also choose sapphires or rubies for a pop of color.

Final Word

While moonstones can be affordable, the cost depends on the type of stone you get. The bluer light your moonstone emits, the higher the price versus a transparent moonstone that will be more cost-effective. This will also depend on the type of metal and setting you pick.

[inspiretowrite1]

The First 5 Conversations to Have When Planning Your Wedding

Your partner has put a ring on it, and now it's time to start planning the biggest celebration of your lives together - your wedding! Before you dive into the countless details like venues, catering, and décor, it's crucial for couples to have open and honest discussions about their overarching vision, priorities, and responsibilities. 

At Fiestro Events, best wedding planners, have guided couples through the wedding planning process from that very first conversation. Here are the top 5 topics we recommend covering in those initial discussions:

1. The Wedding You Envision

Describe your dream wedding! Is it an intimate affair or a grand celebration? Traditional or modern? The season, setting, cultural influences - get it all out on the table. Identifying your long-envisioned musts and must-nots at the outset provides direction.  

2. Budget Realities

Money talks, so have the budget conversation early and often. Determine your total financial commitment and how it will be funded (family contributions, etc). Prioritize where you're willing to splurge and where you can save. An open budget discussion prevents surprises down the line.

3. Guest List Dynamics 

Guest counts directly impact costs, so decide on general parameters like a tight inner circle, extending a widespread net, or something in between. Discuss any familial obligations or tensions regarding the list to get aligned.

4. Division of Responsibilities  

Planning a wedding takes a team! Figure out how you'll divide tasks and what responsibilities you'll take on individually versus leaning on outside support like planners and parents. Establish who has final decision-making authority.

5. Scheduling and Timing  

Whether you're envisioning a short or long engagement, map out a high-level timeline covering all major milestones. Decide on potential wedding date ranges or a general season/year if you don't have specifics yet.

These initial discussions create a solid foundation for a cohesive planning process focused on bringing your united wedding vision to life. The Fiestro team is here to guide you every step of the way from that very first conversation!

[valobrajewelry]

In 2024, How Much Money Should You Spend on a Wedding Ring?

Your wedding bands in Houston, TX are a symbol of the love and commitment towards your partner along with suiting your personal style, making it an important investment. While most people feel that a ring should cost a lot, this isn’t the case.

It all depends on your partner’s choice along with the type of ring they like, the metal, gemstones, and the overall designs as it can range from affordable to high-end. Here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to shopping for a wedding ring.

Factors that affect the price of wedding rings

Here are some factors that can affect the cost of your wedding ring.

The type of metal

The most popular metals for custom rings in Houston, TX are yellow gold, white gold, and platinum. However, a lot of brides tend to choose rose gold for a chic and romantic appeal and sterling silver for its affordability.

Yellow gold and platinum are quite durable and expensive however they will last you for a longer time. These metals are ideal for brides who are active, outgoing, and work a lot with their hands.

Gemstones

The type of gemstones you choose for men’s wedding bands in Houston, TX are also important. If you are using a natural diamond that is completely flawless versus a beautiful aquamarine, there will be a difference in price. Colored stones and lab-made diamonds are much more affordable than natural diamonds.

Along with diamonds, stones like sapphires, rubies or even emeralds are quite durable and great for daily wear. You can also choose pink or yellow diamonds that offer you a lovely shade along with being tough.

End Note At the end of the day, the cost of an engagement ring all depends on the current market price, what you choose, and where you stay. Larger stores in cities will be more expensive than local stores in towns.

[drzarin]

Engagement Ring Vs. Promise Ring

Certainly! Navigating the sparkling world of commitment jewelry can feel like a treasure hunt, with each turn revealing new facets and meanings. When it comes to symbols of love and commitment, engagement rings and promise rings sit like gems at the center of attention, each with its own story and significance.

So, grab a cozy seat and let’s delve into the intriguing journey of engagement rings versus promise rings, shall we?

Once Upon a Sparkle: The Tale of Engagement Rings

Engagement rings are the stuff of legends. Think about it — a single piece of jewelry that carries the weight of a future together, a symbol that shouts love from the rooftops. Traditionally, an engagement ring is presented during a marriage proposal. It's like a drumroll that precedes the big show of the wedding.

The history of engagement rings can trace its roots back to ancient Rome. But it was not until the diamond mines in South Africa were discovered in the 1870s that the diamond engagement ring exploded onto the scene, thanks to a certain De Beers campaign. You know the one: "A Diamond is Forever." Fast forward to today, and that iconic image of someone getting down on one knee, a small box in hand, has become the cultural shorthand for "Will you marry me?"

An engagement ring typically sports a larger, more commanding stone. It’s the Michael Jordan of rings, so to speak — a heavy hitter that plays a significant role in the relationship game. It's not just a piece of bling; it's a declaration, a promise of a shared life, and often a family heirloom in the making.

The Understated Whisper: The Promise Ring Saga

On the flip side, we’ve got promise rings. These are the unsung heroes of the jewelry world, whispering sweet nothings of commitment without all the pomp and circumstance of their engagement counterparts. They’re versatile little things, representing a myriad of commitments — from a promise of monogamy or fidelity to a symbol of a serious relationship that's not quite ready for the ultimate leap.

Promise rings are like the love letters of jewelry; intimate, full of potential, and a little bit secretive. They've been around in various forms for centuries, too, but they've made a comeback in recent years as couples look for ways to express their commitment in a personal, less formal manner. The ring can be anything, really. No need for a marquee-sized diamond here. It's the intention behind it that counts.

The Showdown: Choosing Between Heartfelt Symbols

When you're standing at the crossroads of love, deciding between an engagement ring and a promise ring can feel like choosing the best ice cream flavor on a hot summer day — exciting but slightly overwhelming.

An engagement ring is a megaphone announcement to the world. It’s the first step on the path to 'I do.' It’s a pledge of your intention to wed, and it often comes with a side order of wedding planning. On the other hand, a promise ring is like a secret handshake. It's a symbol of a promise between two souls that might or might not lead to marriage.

The Rings on Your Fingers: What Do They Really Say?

What's interesting is what these rings signify about the times we live in. The engagement ring has held its ground as a strong tradition. Yet, with the rise of promise rings, we see the narrative of commitment becoming more flexible, more tailored to individual relationships.

Engagement rings, especially with the current trend of couples shopping together, also symbolize a more egalitarian approach to marriage — a far cry from the surprise proposals of yesteryear. Meanwhile, promise rings embody the here and now, a "we're in this together, let's see where it goes" philosophy that fits like a glove with the mindset of many modern couples.

A Sparkling Conclusion: It’s All About the Commitment

At the end of the day, whether you slide a diamond-studded band or a simple silver ring onto your loved one's finger, it’s all about the meaning woven into the metal — the silent vows that echo with each sparkle. Engagement ring or promise ring, the real treasure is the commitment it represents, a commitment as deep as the ocean and as enduring as the stars.

So, there you have it. Whether you opt for the timeless tradition of an engagement ring or the modern charm of a promise ring, both are testament to love's grand adventure. Choose with your heart, and let your love shine like the gem it is. After all, isn’t that what truly matters?

[gwbands]

Wedding Ring Versus Engagement Rings: Most Etiquette Questions Answered!

You are likely to be wondering what you need for an engagement ring or wedding ring. Most couple wonders if they love the engagement ring so much that they need Wedding Bands Montreal or not. On this page, you will be able to find the most etiquette questions and answer them once and for all.

Engagement Ring Vs. Wedding Ring

In traditional engagement rings, there is one dominant stone that stands alone in the ring or is surrounded by many small stones. An engagement ring is given as a part of the proposal; otherwise, at an early engagement point.

But to contrast, the wedding rings canada is conventionally a plain metal band or a diamond-encrusted eternity band that you'll receive while exchanging a vow during this traditional wedding ceremony.

You will find a significant price difference between the engagement & wedding rings. Wedding rings are always lesser than engagement ring even though it has inland diamonds or other gemstones.

Now, most of the young generation has started throwing the tradition out of the window. Nowadays, brides have more of a say in the choice and design of their wedding rings. Youths are not only breaking this tradition but are also opting to diversify their wedding and engagement ring selections.

How to Wear Engagement & Wedding Rings?

Traditional culture says to wear both wedding and engagement rings together on the 4th finger of the left hand simultaneously. Now the question arises of how to stack them. Now the question arises of how to stack these 2 rings simultaneously in one hand, and tradition holds that you need to wear the wedding bands inside the engagement ring so that it always remains close to your heart.

Whereas nowadays, some brides are opting for wearing these traditional engagement rings on one hand and their wedding band on the other hand. They wear this, especially in those cases when they have diverse rings that can’t be stacked.

[quanjewelry]

Costume Jewelry Versus Authentic Jewelry: Which Is Best

In the sparkly world of jewelry, it is important to make sure that you are buying or selling your pieces wisely. That is where doing smart research on jewelry comes in handy. This will help you to be more informed so that you can buy or sell and not lose money. Follow these tips to get started with learning about jewelry.

Keep your fragile stone jewelry stored in separate boxes, away from your other pieces, to prolong the life of these stones. You don't want them getting scuffed or broken, by being in direct contact with stronger and harder jewelry pieces. Try wrapping these fragile stones in velvet or silk, before placing them in the boxes. It's best if you keep the boxes that they originally came in, for this purpose.

Try adding a special personal touch to your pieces by getting them professionally engraved. You can add just about anything and it makes it a more special and memorable piece to you or somebody you care about. You can get names, initials, small messages, symbols, etc. finely carved into your pieces to truly make them one-of-a-kind.

When shopping for diamonds, make sure that you shop for them based on their four main criteria: color, cut, clarity, and carat. The color refers to the hue of the stone. The cut refers to the way that the stone is fashioned, such as princess and square cuts. Clarity refers to the flawlessness of the stone. The carat refers to the weight of the stone.

When going shopping for diamonds, make sure to set yourself a budget and stick to it. The world of diamonds can seem overwhelming and the prices vary a great deal. By keeping a budget in mind, you can cut down the vast variety, to a much more sensible variety to choose from.

Use a cloth dampened with a solution of water and a few drops of dish-washing liquid to clean your pearls. Lightly rub each pearl with the cloth, and allow them to air-dry. Never soak pearls, as doing so can cause massive damage to the integrity of the gem. Keeping your pearls clean ensures a long life for them.

If you own gold or silver jewelry be sure to take it off when you shower, sleep or submerge that area of your body in water. By doing these things you will prevent the jewelry from tarnishing faster. The beauty of fine jewelry is it's sparkle and gleam.

To help you clean and maintain your jewelry in top condition, remember to polish your gold and silver with a jewelry polishing cloth. Alternatives, such as a regular cloth or paper towel, have the potential to damage your gold or silver because they are not gentle enough for these delicate precious metals.

When you want to store your fine jewelry, you should follow the instructions that were provided with your specific piece, and follow them exactly. Generally, you do not want pieces touching each other to keep them from scratching. It is best to store your jewelry in the box or pouch it came in.

When it comes to choosing the perfect wedding or engagement ring, it is important to be able to pay for it with cash. Sure, nothing says love like a great ring, but you do not want to put yourself in debt or end up paying overwhelming amounts of interest for it. It is the thought that counts for most.

As you can see from the previous list of tips, jewelry buying or selling can really make a difference, especially in terms of things like prices. It takes some research, asking questions and doing some legwork, but it is all worth it in the end, to either get the jewelry you desire or to make sure that someone else does.