#I hope your holidays went well & that you're excited for this next year and all of the blessings it has to offer you! AND more simmingggg!

[nyrarachelle-plays]

Happy New Year, my lovesss!

Aweee, look at where my girls started (can't forget Aiko too)! These are from the night before their first move, from the San Myshuno city to the Del Sol valley...and now...to their Pinnacle (*badum-cha*)! And after a New Years party of their own. But now, let's take a detour to someone else that started this Simblr journey with them...

Currently. (Just Like Old Times!) | Next. (A Different Perspective.)

[poetlus]

“SIBLING RIVALRY” — katsuki bakugo & sibling!reader

SYNOPSIS: after being away from home, katsuki comes back for winter break. he reunites with his sibling, y/n, who’s missed him. when he realizes how bad him leaving affected y/n, he makes a proposal.

WORDCOUNT: 1.4k

A/N: requested!! i wish i could find the blog to tag them, but i lost it :( im so sorry. hopefully u see this requester, cus i really enjoyed writing it!! proofread by @sepptember & @lemkay-luminary :)

“Mom, when is Katsuki coming back?” You asked as you took a nibble of the snack in your hand. You’re both on the couch, sitting arms length apart.

“It should be some time tomorrow, what with New Year’s and all. If that kid doesn’t come to see us for the holiday, I swear he’s gonna get it the next time I see him.” You giggled at your mom’s response, making her laugh too.

“I miss him, ma.” You say as you bring your knees to your chest.

“Me too. Miss that kid like crazy.” She brings you closer to her, rubbing your back.

“He’s, like, my inspiration, y’know. I wanna be a hero just like him.”

“Meh, maybe without all the yelling? He’s gonna give civilians a serious headache if he doesn’t cut that out.” You giggled again, this time in agreement with your mom. You leaned your head on your mothers shoulder, her pajama shirt acting as a pillow. You yawned, thinking about your childhood with Katsuki. It was always filled with laughter and banter. You hoped nothing would change when he came back, although it was very likely that things would. After all, you're both getting older, you’re both maturing. Change was inevitable. After almost drifting off to sleep multiple times, you finally decided it was time for bed.

When you woke up the next morning, it was a little after 7am. You didn’t expect to wake up this early, but you figured it was just your body’s way of telling you that you were excited to see your brother.

You got up and started your morning routine. You took a shower, made some breakfast, and then scrolled on your phone until about 9.

Then, you heard your front door open.

“Katsuki!” You heard your parents exclaim. You shot up from your bed and raced down the hall, nearly slipping on a carpet and crashing into the corner of a wall.

“Holy crap, it’s really you!” You shouted when your eyes fell on your brother. You ran up to him and acted like you were going in for a hug. Right before you made contact with him, you smacked his arm. Hard.

“Why haven’t you been responding to my texts?! Is it that busy at UA? Surely you have some time to respond, so why is it that I’m constantly on delivered?? You think you’re too good to text me back, now that you’re almost a pro-hero? Is that it?!” You barked.

“Quit hounding me, will ya?!” Your brother shouted back, smacking your arm back. You jumped back and rubbed the tender spot.

“Hey! That hurt, you ass!”

“Yeah?! Good! I wouldn’t have smacked you if you didn’t hit me first!”

“Well I wouldn’t have smacked you if you had just responded to my texts!”

Your sibling banter went on for another minute, your mom finally tearing the two of you apart.

“God dammit, you kids are no different than when Katsuki was living here! Can’t you just get along?!” The two of you glared at your mom, who was glaring right back— as if she was daring one of you to say something.

“We missed you, Katsuki.” Your dad said from the kitchen, breaking the semi-awkward silence.

“Missed you too, dad.” Bakugo grumbled. He then pushed past you and went to his room, you followed him.

Once you reached his room, you leaned against the doorframe as he set his bag down.

“You still haven’t answered me.”

“Listen, I’ve just been caught up in hero work, okay? I’m not meaning to ignore you. I always am thinking about you, mom, and dad. You know that— don’t be dumb.” Another awkward quietness fell over the room.

“How’s it here without me?” He asked you.

“It’s really quiet. Kinda unnerving, not gonna lie. It’s like…too quiet. How’s it at UA?”

“It’s good. The dorms are good. The guy I have a room next to is like, my friend or whatever. How’s school?”

“Ooh, a friend? What’s his name? Is he cute?”

“His names Kirishima, and no. He has the weirdest hair I’ve ever seen.”

“Do you have a picture?”

“No. Shut up.”

“Ugh, you suck. Have you met any real pros?”

“Duh, a bunch. My teachers Erasurehead— I’ve even met All Might.”

“Woah, no way! How’s that?? Is he as cool in person?!”

“Hell yeah he is.” Bakugo smirked. “You never answered my question.” He looked up at you from his spot on the bed.

“What question?”

“How’s school?” His brow furrowed, as if he felt like he was being tricked.

“Oh,” You huffed slightly. “It’s okay. Boring.”

“Yeah? You make any friends at least?”

“Um.. yeah I guess.”

“You guess? Whatdya mean you guess?”

“I dunno..” You looked like you were going to keep talking, but you stopped yourself.

“Gettin’ good grades?” Katsuki changed the subject. “Ya can’t get into UA without good grades.”

“Mhm,” Katsuki sighed.

“What’s with the dry responses, assface? You were so bubbly just now when we were talking about me.” he, clearly frustrated with your change in demeanor.

“It’s nothing, dickwad,” You returned his energy back, but then quieted down again. “I just feel like we aren’t as close anymore. Ever since you got into UA, you’ve changed so much. You’re a lot more…serious. Not like when you were living here. And now, especially when you’re in the dorms, we’re even further from you. It’s like you’re gettin’ to be a stranger.” You quickly realized how much you confessed and stiffened up.

“But— but forget about it! I don’t care that much anyways.” You turned around and began to walk out of Katsuki’s room, the tips of your ears and the apples of your cheeks warming quicker than you expected.

As you stepped foot out of your brother’s room, you heard his voice.

“Hey, come back!” You stopped and turned around. “What makes you say that, huh? I’m not a stranger, I’m your brother. I’m always gonna be with you.”

“What makes me say that is the fact that you left me here. I don’t have anybody to talk to when I don’t want to talk to mom or dad. I’m alone, Katsuki.”

Your brother sighed and motioned you to come sit beside him on his bed. When you did, he wrapped an arm around you to bring you closer to him.

“I know I left you. You think I don’t feel bad about that?” You were quiet as tears began to blur your vision. “I think about you every day. I really do mean it when I say I’m too busy to respond, but I am thinking about you. The whole reason I left is because I’m thinking about you. Saving you, protecting you, being your hero.” A tear formed in your eye and fell onto your leg.

“Quit cryin, you big loser.” He took his arm off of you and playfully bumped your shoulder.

“I love you Katsuki.” You said as you wiped your tears and sniffled.

“I love you too, kid.” your brother’s words were soft spoken and gentle. “I’ll make you a deal.” You perked up in confusion, the tears from before quickly drying up.

“If you promise— and I mean cross your heart— that you won’t embarrass me in front of my friends, I’ll talk to Mr. Aizawa about bringing you to UA for a day. You can babysit Eri or something.”

“What?! You mean it?!” You gasped lightly.

“Only if you promise!” He shouted.

“I promise, I promise! Cross my heart!” You yelled back, gesturing to the right side of your chest.

“Alright.”

The two of you spent the rest of the day with your parents, eating a delicious home cooked meal and spending quality time together. Once it got dark, the four of you all retreated to your rooms after a long day. You were watching a movie when you heard a knock on your door.

“Y/N,” Katsuki’s muffled voice said.

“What?” You called from the other side of the door.

“Can I stay the night in here?” He opened it, revealing him in his black band tee and plaid pajama pants. You smiled.

“Sure, but I’m not giving up my bed. You can sleep on the floor.” He huffed, unsatisfied with your answer.

“But your bed’s so comfortable! You got the memory foam mattress!” He whined.

“Too bad, so sad. Take it or leave it, stupid.” Katsuki sighed and walked towards you, flopping onto your bed anyways.

“No! Katsuki, get off!” You shouted as you realized what was happening too late. You attempted to push him off of your bed, but to no avail. He was staying on that damned bed whether you liked it or not.

[fandomcentralsposts]

Steve hasn't celebrated Christmas properly for many years because his parents are never home, and if they do show, it'll be a few days before, and they don't usually stay for new years. Because of this, Steve no longer has the urge to put up decorations. He doesn't bother with Christmas dinners or ugly sweaters or any usual traditions. But deep down, he loves Christmas. The lights, the trees, music, and snow are something a part of him still looks forward to every year he just knows he'll probably be spending it alone. Until he dates Nancy and the Wheelers, let him join them for Christmas and the years after Dustin and his mother would welcome him, although at times he felt like he was imposing he felt grateful he also made sure he bought presents for everyone all the kids and Nancy, Johnathan and eventually Robin he would also help cook for whoever he was staying with he wanted to make sure he was the perfect house guest so he would be invited back next year.

When he and Eddie started dating, Steve half expected he would be invited over at Christmas. Their relationship was going strong they were attached at the hip, and Wayne was very tolerant of them, and he seemed to like him, so he was hoping it would be offered. Except it wasn't November came and left, then it was December 1st, then 4th, then 8th, then 16th, and Eddie hadn't said anything. Which was fine. Christmas is a family thing, after all, and they had been dating for only 4 months. However, Robin and her family were going out of town this year, and Dustin and his mother were hosting his Aunt and Grandma and Steve didn't want to take up anymore space but he couldn't help but feel a tiny pang of rejection and grimacing at the idea of spending Christmas alone in his quiet, dark house.

On the 23rd of December, Steve was sitting in his room. Robin had already left, and family video had closed for the holidays, and Steve figured he shouldn't bother Eddie since it was so close to Christmas. He tried to distract himself by reading a book, wrapping presents he would give out on boxing day, but there was only so much he could do before his mind drifted back, too, his depressing reality. Just as Steve thought about pulling back the covers and spending the next 2 days in bed, the doorbell rang. He went downstairs and opened the door to reveal his boyfriend smiling widely at him.

"Eddie! Hi, I didn't know you were coming over, " Steve said, letting him in.

"Yeah, I wanted to surprise you, baby," Eddie said, stepping through the front door and kissing Steve on the cheek. "I have your christmas present"

Steve glanced at the poorly wrapped box Eddie was gripping with excitement.

"Oh Ed's you didn't have to-"

"Shhh, of course I had too it's Christmas, and you're my boyfriend now where is your tree?" Eddie said, venturing into the living room

"Um..." Steve trailed off suddenly embarrassed by the lack of decoration.

"Wow, you've left decorating really late are you waiting for your parents or something?"

"T-they're not coming"

"What?"

"They're not coming back for Christmas," Steve stated

"Oh my god baby, I'm so sorry," Eddie said, placing his gift on the coffee table and giving his boyfriend a hug

"It's alright Eddie really" Steve chuckled "They haven't spent Christmas with me in years so-"

"Years?!" Eddie said, eyes widening. "So you've been by yourself every year?"

"No, Dustin and Robin have invited me over, but neither of them could this year"

"Why didn't you ask me?" Eddie said sounding a little heartbroken

"I don't know a part of me thought you might ask first and then I thought Christmas is a family thing so you probably want to be with Wayne only"

"Stevie, you are my family too. I love you," Eddie said sincerely.

Steve couldn't stop the tears from welling in his eyes the way Eddie spoke so gently and rested his palm on Steve's cheek.

"I'm sorry." Was all Steve could manage not exactly sure what he was apologising for. Eddie shushed him and cleared his throat.

"Steve Harrington," Eddie started. "Would you please make me the happiest man alive and join me and my uncle for Christmas?"

"Yes," Steve said, laughing at the end.

Eddie and Steve didn't waste a second gathering some of Steve's things, the presents he wrapped, and drove back to the trailer park. Wayne was more than happy to have Steve over for Christmas, especially since he had an extra pair of hands in the kitchen. Eddie and Steve cuddled up on the couch that evening, their mugs of hot chocolate cooling on the coffee table. Eddie pressed a kiss to Steve's forehead.

"Merry Christmas, Stevie"

"Merry Christmas, Ed's"

[stevesbipanic]

@steddiemas Day 31: New Year's Eve

There was always a certain magic in the air on new year's eve. Steve could feel the bubble of excitement in the countdown and it almost felt like a clean slate washed over you as the fireworks brought in the new year. When he was little his parents would often take him to New York for the big celebration, his father often hosting a party. After they stopped returning home as often, Steve brought in the new year with Tommy and Carol getting drunk on his father's whiskey.

1983 he spent alone and hoped that 1984 would be better, it wasn't, well except for the kids coming into his life. 1985 saw him cuddled up in the living room with Robin watching the fireworks on tv, he hoped 1986 would be their year.

"Stevie, do you have plans for new year's?" Eddie had asked at Christmas dinner, Wayne had insisted he joined them when he heard Robin and the Hendersons wouldn't be in Hawkins this year. "Not really, Robin won't be back, I might just turn in early." He was kind of sad to be spending it alone this year.

"No! You've gotta have fun Steve! Come join us here, Rudy a couple doors down always lights up the best fireworks!" Eddie explained excitedly and who was Steve to say no to that face.

Steve had gotten to Eddie's around 8, a pack of beer and a warm smile on his face when Eddie answered the door.

"We've gotta get you your own key one of these days, Stevie, you're here enough." If that warmed Steve's heart that was his business.

Wayne wouldn't be back from work until 11, getting that holiday pay to help them through the rest of winter. The boys didn't mind, curled up on the couch watching movies, laughing and drinking beer. Steve felt a soft buzz from the alcohol but the butterflies were certainly because of the boy sitting across from him.

When Wayne got home they switched the TV to the countdown of the final hour of the year. Eddie moaned about the pop music they played but didn't seem to mind as much when Steve was pulling him up to dance around the trailer. Soon it was time to head outside with all the other neighbours to watch the fireworks.

"Here, Stevie, I know the perfect spot," Eddie said pulling Steve up to lay down on the trailer roof. They could see Rudy setting up the fireworks on the hill, sleepy looking kids still just staying awake gathered with their parents. The radio crackled as the last song finished and the countdown began.

Ten!

Steve could feel the magic start to fill the air, the new year was so close.

Nine!

He hoped that next year they'd all be safe, that next year would be their year.

Eight!

Next year he's going to make sure he spends it with Eddie, this has certainly been his favourite new year's eve.

Seven!

He turns away from looking at the hill to the other boy to find him already looking at him, there's something in his eyes.

Six!

"I'm glad you're here this year, Stevie."

Five!

"I'm glad I'm here with you, Eds."

Four!

Eddie's face is holding a soft smile and his eyes flick down to Steve's lips.

Three!

Oh, that's what that magic was.

Two!

Steve took a chance and lent forward, pressing his lips softly to Eddie's who immediately pushed back against him smiling.

One!

Fireworks went off behind them but they didn't care as they pulled away, twin smiles on their faces. Yeah, 1987 was going to be their year.

Ao3

[shslbunnylover]

hii!! i love your fics so much. i was hoping it isn’t too late to request a fluffmas fic with melissa x reader. where the reader has never had a good time during the holidays and it’s their first christmas together so melissa decides to make it as special as possible. they go to mels family for christmas and when they get home mel makes the reader feel as special as possible

★★★𝙔𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙝𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙢𝙖𝙧𝙠 𝙢𝙤𝙫𝙞𝙚★★★

Character: Melissa Schemmenti

Summary: See ask above!

Requester: Anonymous

Taglist: @inlovewithgreta @lilfartbox1 (Message me to be a part of the taglist until I get a page set up!!)

Trigger warnings (DL, DI): Mentions of family fighting and seasonal depression

Genre: Fluff

A/n: I added my on little touch to this, hope you like it anon!

Word count: 2.7k

...

...

You were a lot like Jacob. Not in the way that you were incredibly corny or attempted to use the language of your students as a way to relate to them, but rather in your opinions on the holidays. The holidays never meant more to you than family chaos and winter depression, and that idea had been ingrained into your head since the day you first saw the light of the world.

You enjoyed the lights and songs, they were always beautiful in your eyes, but the beauty they brought was always overshadowed by the pain and depression that Christmas and everything around it brought. Whenever people asked why you were a Grinch, you'd just say that 'Christmas was a commercialized holiday with traditions taken from Pagan rituals who were later demonized for those same things'. You tried to find so many things wrong with Christmas so you didn't have to admit that your family was the reason you never enjoyed the holidays. However, once you had moved to Philidelphia and started as a teacher at Abbott Elementary, you quickly realized that almost everyone felt the exact opposite about the quote-on-quote "Most Magical Time of the Year".

Janine was always chipper, so the Christmas spirit was bound to flow into her like the snow into the hand turkey's she used to prevent it from entering the classroom. Barbara was a devout Christian, meaning Christmas meant a lot to her along with it being her favorite holiday of the year. Ava loved the sexy Santa dresses and the incredibly suggestive songs played throughout December (and let's be honest, half of November if you went to any retail store). Gregory was neutral, as he always was, but he liked the movies. Jacob was just like you when it came to this whole season of magic and love and for roughly the same reasons. Melissa, well she adored the holiday season, even if she didn't show it. The only way you found out about the redhead's adoration for Christmas was after you began dating her.

She explained everything to you, her holiday party with Barbara, her dinner with her family, the special things she did with her students, and so many more things that left you completely shocked.

You simply didn't understand, and you wondered how someone could love a season filled with nothing but depression and fighting. It didn't make sense when everyone around you was talking about their holiday plans with family and they seemed excited.

So, when you were sitting in the teachers' lounge a couple of days before winter break, you were unusually silent as you sat next to your girlfriend.

"So, Y/n, what are you doing for the holidays?" Janine asked with her usual bright smile.

You hummed, looking up from your barely-drank coffee with tired eyes.

"I'm not doing anything, I'm gonna stay home," You muttered.

"You're not coming over for dinner hon?" Melissa perked up, her neutral expression into one of concern.

"No, I'm not one for all the family stuff..." You replied, looking down at the beverage in your hand, your focus going towards the patterns made by the creamer on the top.

"But Christmas is time to be with friends and family!" Janine tried to protest, only to be shot a scolding look by Barbara.

"If they don't want to do that, then they don't have to," Barbara spoke. "But, dear, are you alright? You have been down these past few days,"

"And I've said I'm fine," You rolled your eyes, missing the sharp and quizzical look your girlfriend was sending you.

"Can we just talk about literally anything else?" You sighed, mustering up the energy to take a sip of your drink.

"Yeah, I agree," Jacob said before talking about some sort of new movie coming out.

But Melissa wasn't about to let this go. She was fine with you not coming for dinner, but she wasn't fine with you being miserable.

"Babe, can you tell me what is going on with you?" Melissa asked gently, placing her hand on your thigh while her other held the steering wheel.

You weren't technically living together, as you still had your place, but you preferred to be at your girlfriend's house rather than your little apartment, after all, it didn't feel like home there anymore.

"I..." You began, looking out the window to see all the passing trees and cars. "I don't know,"

"You're never like this. I'm not mad at you at all. I'm just concerned," Your girlfriend squeezed your thigh softly to reassure you.

"...Look, my family just fought a lot during the holidays, so I don't like it that much," You confessed, leaning your head against the cold glass.

"Oh," The woman next to you spoke, her eyes focused on the road while her brain tried to comfort you in the best way possible. "I understand that, but there's so much more to the holidays than fighting,"

"I just...I just don't believe you, I want to, but I can't," You replied.

There was silence in the car for a couple of minutes as Melissa thought deeply, finally speaking up after an idea came to mind.

"How about I show you?"

"What?" You snapped your head to look at her.

"How about I show you that the holidays are enjoyable?" She repeated, clarifying what she had said.

"I-I don't know..."

"Look," Melissa said, parking her car in her driveway before turning to face you. "You give me till the end of the year to prove to you that Christmas is a good time, deal?" She smirked, holding out her hand.

You paused for a moment, staring at her hand with a nervous expression prominent on your face.

"And if you don't convince me?" You asked.

"I'll leave you alone, but there will always be a spot open at the table, so you have nothing to lose," The older woman replied. "Now, do we have a deal?"

You sighed, nodding in defeat before shaking your girlfriend's hand.

"You've got less than two weeks, Mel," You warned her, trying to hide that you were secretly grateful to your partner for caring so much about you.

"It's no problem, I can do it," She winked, kissing your hand, fully aware of your gratitude.

A couple of days later, you were sat by the Christmas tree, holding a simple family photo ornament in your hand, your thumb wiping off the occasional pine needle that had fallen onto it.

"Whatcha doin' hon?" Melissa asked with a smug smile, leaning over your sitting frame, blocking the light from your view and causing you to look up at your redhead girlfriend.

"Just looking at the ornament, are you sure your family doesn't fight?" You sighed, letting go of the decoration and allowing it to rest on the tree branch.

"Except for me and Kristin-Marie, no one does really. Every fight is clearly all in good fun," She assured you.

"So...no one walks out?" You asked.

"No, nobody walks out, cucciola," The woman standing above you chuckled. "Me and Kristin-Marie may not get along that well, but we kinda enjoy all that fighting. After Janine invited her over here, we got back to talking,"

You grimaced at the memory, laughing at how pissed off Melissa was at Janine the day after.

"Alright, I'll believe you, for now," You stood up, kissing her softly.

"You better, 'cause we Schemmenti's are known for our persuasion," She smirked.

You rolled your eyes, laying your head on her shoulder, already feeling your heart softening its harsh feelings towards the holidays.

"Say, do you wanna watch a Christmas movie? You can pick," Melissa asked you, wrapping her arms around you to embrace you tighter.

You nodded.

"I like Miracle on 34th Street, maybe that one?" You blushed, pulling your head from your girlfriend's clavicle.

Melissa smiled softly at your rosy cheeissing you on your temple.

"Of course, hon. You can put it on, and I'll head go make us some hot chocolate?" She suggested, walking into the kitchen and leaving you to prepare the movie.

You nodded, sitting down on her couch (that no longer had plastic thanks to you) and grabbing the remote, typing in the name of the movie.

When Melissa finally returned with two mugs of hot chocolate and a bowl of cinnamon sugar popcorn, you were pretty much dumbfounded.

"Holy cow Mel! This is so good!!" You beamed, taking a sip of the hot drink she had made before popping a couple of pieces of popcorn in your mouth.

"Thanks, babe," Your girlfriend sighed at the taste of her cocoa, wrapping her arm around you, her eyes focusing on the movie.

When Christmas day finally rolled around, you were impressed by just how many of Melissa's family members were at her mom's house for Christmas, and everyone seemed to get along (Except Kristin-Marie and Melissa, of course). The whole family seemed to absolutely adore you, and you felt...welcome.

You didn't even need to introduce yourself as you walked in the door, as everyone knew practically everything about you.

Teresa, Melissa's mom, immediately took you into the kitchen and asked you what your favorites of the array of food were so she could make more. John, Melissa's dad, gave you a gruff handshake and asked you if you liked football, which started a whole conversation about Melissa's early days of being a football fan. Kristin-Marie was standoffish, looking at you with a glare the entire time as Melissa had warned you about. Her infamous cousin Vinny was playful and tackled you with a hug in his large frame when he saw you enter the door with his favorite cousin. Her other younger cousins simply flocked around you asking you questions about you, and Melissa's older cousins quickly started sharing embarrassing stories about your girlfriend (You had to duck when she tried to punch them).

You walked into the dining room, helping set out the cutlery and plates to hopefully get some stress off Teresa's back.

"Oh dear, they're so much better than that pig you would bring," Melissa's mother laughed once you were out of the room.

"I told you that you'd like Y/n, Ma," Melissa sighed, stuffing her hands in her pockets with a smile.

You peeked out from the doorway connecting the kitchen and dining room, eavesdropping on the conversation when you heard your name mentioned.

'What are they talking about? Did I make a bad impression?' You worriedly thought, your heart rate picking up.

"Well, you were right. Only one thing, they seem so nervous, did you tell 'em that we were gonna sacrifice them?" Teresa snickered, taking a sip from the tiny bottle of prosecco you brought her.

"I've got a bet with them that I can make the holidays enjoyable, since it never was for them," Your girlfriend explained. "You should have seen Y/n a couple of days ago, they were miserable. I'm glad I got them to enjoy the season more than they used to,"

You smiled softly, your eyes brimming with tears that you quickly wiped away.

"Were you talking about me?" You asked, walking towards Melissa and her mother.

"Yeah hon, my mom loves you," She smirked. "I told you there was nothing to worry about,"

"You've got good taste in alcohol Y/n," Teresa laughed, finishing off the miniature bottle.

"I'm glad you think so, Melissa said it was your favorite, so I got you the new flavor they came out with. I can get you a bigger bottle if you'd like!" You beamed.

"That won't be necessary, I'll get my own," Your mother-in-law waved off your gesture.

You chuckled, beginning to talk about all the stories Melissa told you about her chaotic family, while Melissa slipped away to go be with her younger cousins, a soft smile on her face at the sight of you being so happy.

"I mean, when I heard that story about Vinny I think I couldn't walk from how hard I was laughing!" You giggled, covering your mouth to hold in more laughter.

"He was a weird kid, but we love him," Teresa chuckled, gesturing to the table once she was finished. "It's around dinner time, you wanna get a seat?"

You nodded, cheerfully making your way to sit next to Melissa, leaning your head on her shoulder.

"They're much better than Joe, he wasn't as happy when he talked to us about Melissa, there is something different about this one," Melissa's aunt Chloe walked up to Teresa.

"Definitely, I'm glad we got to increase their holiday spirit and give them a family, they deserve it for how happy they've made my daughter," The older blonde hummed, taking a seat at the table after finishing the conversation with her sister.

"Thank you so much for inviting me Miss Schemmenti," You smiled, hugging your mother-in-law. "The food was absolutely delicious, and your house is gorgeous!" You praised her, looking at your girlfriend before back at Teresa.

"Oh hon, call me Teresa, you're so sweet," The older woman placed her hand over her heart. "I'm glad someone as wonderful as you are with my daughter,"

You practically melted how kind she was and you were surprised you weren't crying.

"She means the world to me," You looked at Melissa, kissing her cheek. "Thank you again for inviting me,"

Teresa smiled, waving you two off as you walked to your car.

"So, how do you like the holidays hon?" Melissa sported a knowing grin.

"I love them, Mel...You did it, somehow," You sighed, looking up and laughing softly.

Your girlfriend chuckled, starting the car and driving out of the neighborhood, noticing how your eyes were locked on all of the Christmas lights and decorations unlike before.

"What if I told you that when we got home, I'd have something that'd make you love the holidays even more?" The redhead next to you spoke after around ten minutes of comfortable silence, squeezing your thigh to get your attention back on her.

"Oh really? What if I told you I didn't believe you?" You smirked, moving your body to face her.

"You didn't believe me a couple of days ago, now look where that got ya," Melissa teased as you pulled into the driveway at her house.

"Whatever," You rolled your eyes, a shit-eating grin still on your lips.

"Now come on, I have a surprise for you," The older woman urged you to go inside.

When you finally entered the house, you noticed the living room was much tidier, but nothing looked out of place except for a couple of non-flame sugar cookie candles being lit, making the whole house smell like a calm bakery.

"You cleaned! I was gonna do that!" You laughed.

"No hon, that's not the surprise, go lay down on your stomach," Melissa instructed you, kissing your forehead before going to the bathroom and bringing back a basket.

"What's that for Mel?" You asked, your speech slightly muffled by the pillow your face was lying on.

"You had a busy night, I thought I'd help you relax," Your girlfriend chuckled.

Her soft yet strong hands lifted your shirt, applying lotion to themselves before rubbing your back thoroughly. You hummed in contentment, melting further into the couch, your eyes hooding from the sudden feeling.

"Thank you, my love. You really didn't have to do this," You mumbled, letting out an occasional moan whenever she hit a sensitive spot on your back.

"It's no problem hon," She bent down to kiss the top of your head, smiling as your body relaxed under her touch. "I'm just glad I got you to enjoy this time of year as much as I do,"

...

If you enjoyed reading this, don't forget to like, reblog and comment! Thank you and you are loved <3

-Akira

[wheretheharekissesthefox]

All I want for winter solstice is to see you smile

Everyone's excited for Gale's feast. Astarion feels a bit sad he can't eat any of it, but the wizard has a surprise for him.

Notes:

To avoid confusion: In one of my other fanfics Halsin and Tav had named the owlbear cup Naïlo, which means 'night breeze' in the Elven language.

Another fic is mentioned.

Also: Merry Christmas, Hanukkah, Holidays, Winter Solstice, Yule, or whatever else you're celebrating! Take this little sweet, fluffy, wholesome fanfic as a gift, snack, or treat :)

Waterdeep was covered in snow, looking peaceful and jolly. Gale was rotating in the kitchen, preparing the feast for Winter Solstice. Everyone else had been shooed out so that he could work his other type of magic by himself.

Astarion helped Shadowheart decorate the fir tree in the living room while Tav sat on the floor and tried her best to weave a wreath. Scratch and Naïlo seemed a tad confused about the fuss everyone was making and observed the bustle in interest. Tara, on the other hand, napped on top of the piano, utterly unbothered by everything that was going on.

"I thought you're a gentleman who places the star on top of the tree for me," Shadowheart teased.

"It's not my fault I'm too short to reach it," Astarion retorted, miffed.

"Our lovely Mount Halsin would be useful now," the cleric grinned. "Maybe he can save the day when he comes back from shopping."

Astarion glowered.

"Need help?" Tav chuckled.

"Yes, darling."

The bard got up, wiped her hands on her trousers, walked over, and picked Astarion up with ease. The vampire spawn couldn't hold back an excited giggle. Smirking, the cleric handed him the star ornament and Astarion put it over the top of the tree.

"Perfect," Shadowheart smiled and the vampire spawn preened.

With a grunt, Tav put Astarion down again and he wrapped his arms around her neck to kiss her.

"Thank you, darling."

"You're welcome, love."

"Aww," Shadowheart cooed, grinning from ear to ear.

As soon as Astarion had let go of Tav, she pulled the cleric into a kiss too. Then, they went back to work.

Gale had overdone himself. The table was beautifully decorated and he'd placed a small menu card at each seat. Impressed, Halsin picked his up and read the four-course meal.

"Wow, this sounds better than anything served in a restaurant," he praised.

"He's a genius in the kitchen," Morena, Gale's mother, replied proudly.

"Indeed. Nobody cooks fish quite as deliciously as Mister Dekarios," Tara chimed in, already licking her mouth in anticipation.

Everyone at the table snickered amused.

Astarion felt a bit wistful. He wasn't able to stomach anything other than blood, thus, he hadn't had the pleasure of eating solid foods for over two hundred years. Usually, that wasn't a problem, he was used to seeing his loved ones eat, but today, he was hit by a wave of melancholy. He watched as Gale served everyone a small bowl of clear broth with a few vegetable chunks in it, decorated with fresh chives. Astarion was jolted out of his thoughts when Gale placed a soup plate in front of him.

"Uhm..." Dumbfounded, the vampire spawn stared at it. "You know I can't eat anything without getting violently ill, do you?"

"Of course, but I have created this soup especially for you – a whole menu to be precise. Made only from blood, of course. As a gift. For the solstice. I hope you can stomach and enjoy it."

Astarion was overwhelmed.

"Really?" he muttered. "Just for me?"

"Yes," replied Gale, smiling warmly. Bashfully, he leaned down and kissed the vampire spawn's cheek. "Happy Winter Solstice, Astarion."

The addressed blinked away the tears that threatened to spill over and nodded silently. The wizard gently brushed his hand along Astarion's shoulder before sitting down next to him.

"Enjoy your meal. I hope it's to everyone's liking."

They started with their soup and showered Gale with praise who blushed prettily.

"Wyll and Karlach are truly missing out on this," Tav remarked.

"Well, they're at a fancy dinner party at the Ravengard Mansion. After all, Karlach must impress her soon-to-be father-in-law," Shadowheart grinned.

"That poor thing's surely suffocating in her fancy dress and bored to death," snickered the bard and everyone burst into laughter.

Hesitantly, Astarion dipped the spoon into the soup plate and tried the dish. It was pig's blood, but it was spiced.

"Did you use pepper and nutmeg?" he asked, pleasantly surprised.

"Yes. Plus, salt and a bay leaf. I tasted it to make sure it's palatable."

At that, Astarion laughed.

"You ate it? No way!"

Flustered, Gale cleared his throat and averted his gaze. Smiling, the vampire spawn placed his hand on the wizard's arm.

"It's wonderful. Thank you."

Astarion finished his soup happily, letting it warm his belly. He could almost trick himself into imagining that it was fresh blood straight from a vein.

The next dish was a salad with fresh lingonberries and garden cress. Astarion got a blood jelly instead.

"It's made with lamb's blood, gelatine, cinnamon, clover, and orange peel" Gale explained to him.

The vampire spawn cut off a piece of the jelly with the fork and tried it. When he started chewing, the typical flavours associated with the Winter Solstice exploded in his mouth.

The next dish was a lovely plate of turnips, beetroot, mushrooms, and venison with a spicy pepper sauce. Astarion's main course was a blood sausage. Carefully, he cut it open and let the silky smooth texture linger on his tongue. He tasted deer blood, salt, pepper, rosemary, and thyme. Astarion felt like crying.

"Everything alright?" whispered Tav, caressing his hand.

The addressed nodded silently, he didn't trust his voice at the moment. The bard gave him a knowing look and squeezed his hand gently before continuing to eat. Shortly after, Astarion felt Gale's warm hand on his thigh. It wasn't a sexual gesture but a comforting one. The vampire spawn took a deep breath and finished his meal.

For dessert, Gale served them apple ice cream and cookies. Astarion got a blood sorbet and when he took the first spoonful, he tasted the unmistakable bouquet of Tav's and Gale's blood as well as a hint of peach.

"You remembered my favourite fruit?" Astarion murmured. His heart hurt.

"Of course. Why wouldn't I?" Gale replied with a smile.

The vampire spawn swallow thickly.

"Because I don't eat. Why would you remember such a trivial thing when I'm not -"

Astarion burst into tears, startling everyone at the table. With a whine, Scratch placed his head in the vampire spawn's lap and started licking his hand. Naïlo chirped in concern, observing Astarion from across the room with big, yellow eyes. Gale was frozen in place, not knowing how to react, thus, Tav pulled the vampire spawn into a hug.

"In two hundred years, no one has ever - Nobody cared enough to -"

"It's alright, love," the bard whispered, stroking his hair, and Astarion kept crying bitterly into her shoulder.

"I - I didn't mean to make you cry. I'm sorry," Gale muttered.

"No, no." Astarion barked a watery laugh. "I'm not - not hurt. I'm - happy."

He detangled himself from Tav to turn around and fall around Gale's neck.

"You made me very happy," he mumbled.

The wizard sighed a breath of relief and pulled Astarion closer.

"Good," he told the vampire spawn.

"It's so heartwarming how you all treat each other," remarked Morena, smiling softly. "I can feel the love you share for one another. It's a beautiful thing."

"Forsooth, Miss Dekarios," purred Tara.

When the celebration was over, Morena had gone home, and everyone was ready for bed, Astarion lay down next to Gale and pulled him into a passionate kiss.

"Thank you, for everything. I'll never forget what you've done for me. I love you."

"I love you too," Gale replied with a heated face.

Smiling, Astarion kissed him again until the wizard was breathless. Then, he snuggled even closer to him, basking in the calming, comforting scent of Gale and lavender.

"Happy Winter Solstice, darling."

[dat-bruv-person]

𓆩♡𓆪 preparing for Christmas with them!

a/n: this is part of the #fluffvember2022 event that I was tagged in, my first one actually, so I hope you guys enjoy and check out the other works of the authors! Happy Fluffvember! @maehemthemisfit , here is the fic.

gn!reader, poc!reader friendly <3

_________ ׂׂૢ་༘࿐

Lisa puts bells on her hat to make it look suitable for the festive season and decorates the library for Christmas. Miss Librarian here also puts away the purple and replaces is with a not so modest red dress all the way from 20th December till Jesus's b-day. Stockings, fishnets: she likes to switch it up. She knows you like to make time to see her, so she when she sees you coming she quickly hangs up the mistletoe above the door where you come in. Whether that gets you flustered or not is up to you, but a makeout session beneath the doorway shall be had nonetheless. After her library closes, you can bet that you two are having hot chocolate next to the fireplace and Christmas tree.

Ayato doesn't celebrate Christmas, so the Kamisato estate isn't decorated for the occasion. Who do you think they are? Commoners? Well no, obviously, but there is a tree in Lord Kamisato's office! Just a small one! You help him decorate it: it's going to have tiny baubles and tinsel to lighten up the mood, even just a little bit. Ayato wants to explore the holiday with you, so he's open to any suggestions like drinking hot chocolate together or watching movies. If you guys do try it, tell me how it went.

Ah, Lady Guuji of the Grand Narukami Shrine. She's very interested in this mortal holiday, and spending it with you this year shall be even more exciting! Whether you're a fantastical being like her or Ei, or you're regular human as mentioned, it doesn't matter. She's going to have lots of fun with you. Yae Miko insists on decorating the Shrine with you, but it's more like her watching you do it whilst you flex your body to get in the nooks and crannies. Trust me, she's enjoying the view. If you beg her enough, she'll give in to your whining and wear baubles instead of her usual earrings. You can't tell anyone though, it's your little secret. Christmas cuddles are a must. Contrary to popular belief, she's very cuddly and possessive. Sure, she likes to tease you, but she's nice! She's also your's.

Zhongli goes Christmas shopping with you in November. He's seen the rush, and the fights, and the deals. He's not going through that. Yes, you'll have to pay more and you guys will look weird but that's okay. You guys will have the last laugh when you see the many Liyueans groan in realisation. Like Ayato and Yae Miko, he's never celebrated this holiday, but since this is his first year living as a human, he has to fit in. Your husband/boyfriend/fiancé makes different teas for you to taste test. Cinnamon tea, peppermint tea, pumpkin spice. You name it, he attempts to make it. Soon, your stuffed with tea and can't drink anymore! Oh well, a movie marathon can help you digest all of that.

Yelan doesn't see the significance of this holiday. Yeah... excuse her, she's a bit insensitive about this. That doesn't mean she doesn't care, she'll take a look at your wishlist and buy every single thing on that list. You add something later? That's fine. 💸 money noises. 💸 You take something off there? 💸 refund noises. 💸 She's not the most affectionate, nor the best with words, but she is trying her best to show you that she loves you. Otherwise, why would she be with you in the first place? Anyway, I should probably mention that she's a secret sucker for Christmas rom-coms. I mean, two idiots beat around the bush and eventually fall in love with a festive theme. What more could you want??

Xiao doesn't see the point. Why do so many people on this list not celebrate Christmas or any kind of holiday??? Should've rethought who I was writing for. But!! But. Hear me out. You make him cinnamon almond tofu. Oh my goodness, hand in marriage right now. Or better. You join him in being a Yaksha and have your wedding over the graves of the dead Yakshas to make it seem like they're your guests. He would love you forever and ever and ever. Also: you guys have snowball fights for every day that it snows. Keep him from eating the snow though, okay? Xiao probably has no sense of self-control when it comes to snow. Put a santa hat on him and you really are done! He has so much fun though, he'll ask every day of December if it's Christmas yet and doesn't sleep on Christmas Eve at all.

Childe + baking gingerbread since he is a ginger = perfection. You, him and Tuecer soooo make cookies for Santa, or in this case Ded Moroz. Search him up, he's cool. Carrots for the reindeer and milk for the jolly fat man in the sky, you guys are all set. Sleepovers! Basically, you guys prepare for Christmas with his family. Instead of actually sleeping, you guys may be sharing soft kisses under the blankets of the pillow fort, but they don't need to know that... Childe is really grateful to have you, you make everything so much fun! Decorating the tree with him is a blast, and you've got yourself a fan when you put the star on the tree without being lifted up <- Tuecer is the fan by the way.

Miss Shenhe is clueless with the concept of holidays itself: you've got to give her the best time ever. First, you two get some matching sweaters - that's the bare minimum. She seems to like matching with you, protectively holding your arm in the fear of you leaving her and matching with someone else. Don't worry babes, [name] wouldn't leave you like that. You can stop being jealous now. You need to take her to the Christmas markets! She's going to be so bewildered, walking around being offered sweets and crackers and goodies! She feels... normal. Accepted. Shenhe has already deemed Christmas her favourite season. Pick out trees with her, take it back to her abode and decorate it with the many pinecone and candy canes and tinsel you found. She offers to put tinsel around your neck and- oh? Is that a smile coming from our crane on the wind? Aww <3

Kazuha knows what this holiday is, he used to celebrate it with Tomo when they were both in Inazuma together. But now he has you. That's all he needs. He's so cheeky! Throwing snowballs at you and pretending he doesn't know what you're talking about? The nerve! This is war. You guys just walk hand in hand along the path with pine trees, shaping snow into tiny ornaments and putting them on the trees, only for them to fall down and you both laugh. You guys take in stray cats and sneak them on board Beidou's ship. She doesn't mind, but she thinks 10 cats is more than enough. The ship itself is full of life, and Kazuha definitely seems to know a lot of Christmas folk tales. The lights are amber, carols are being sung. This is how your prepare for Christmas.

Once again, thank you for letting me participate in this event, and if there are any other events then hit me up you know?

[ofoceansandtombsanew]

🥺 i know you said the traveler would give death reader a birthday in her story quest but what if childe and his family gave her a birthday instead? like he manages to convince her to come with him to snezhnaya and meet his family and teucer asks when's her birthday and she says she doesn't know so childe suggests they come up with a birthday for her then

that's actually so cute???

it's with a lot of reluctance on your part since you ultimately hope ajax will let go of his fascination with you, but you cede and agree to return with him to snezhnaya to meet his family who has undoubtedly been told that you're his lover in his letters. he probably even introduced you to his underlings as his lover when they inquired as to who you were and why you were returning to the motherland with them

and his family is quite kind, very kind souls that you think are extremely warm in contrast to their cold homeland. you wounder if those smiles would still remain on their faces if they knew your true identity, not simply an ordinary woman who has enraptured their son

ajax's father has a booming hardy laugh, regaling tale after tale about his troublesome third son whom he asks you to care for. someone has to look after him and he is pleased to hear that even if ajax has his fair share of battle scars, you are always there to tend to them

his mother dotes on you frequently, fretting about the bags under your eyes and how you're cold to the touch despite how many layers she has dressed you in. she complains to her son as much, stating that he should look after you better. "don't be shy, dear, here take this coat as well. we have to warm you up. what was my son thinking not noticing your state?"

all the while, you sit by the fire with anthon, tonia and teucer who ask you plenty of questions between the many games they drag you into. where are you from? ("i'm simply a wanderer in my own right") where are you going next? ("wherever the currents take me") when are you going to marry their big brother? ("hopefully soon," ajax cheerfully interjects) when finally they ask the question of the hour, "when's your birthday?"

truthfully, you have no idea. you don't even know how old you are, you never really kept track of the years as they all bled together day after day, year after year, death after death. as death incarnate, you've existed since the very beginning of teyvat and a birthday isn't necessary for your role in nature

of course, to the family hosting you while their son is visiting home for a few weeks, you simply smile sadly and say "i don't know myself" which only brings more questionsー didn't your family tell you? ("i have no family, so ") how do you know how old you turn each year? ("i suppose i've never really counted")

the mood of the household shifts into one of puzzled sadness and before you can attempt to smooth things over, ajax throws an arm over your shoulders. "we'll just have to give her a birthday then, won't we?" and the atmosphere changes into one buzzing with excitement as suggestions fly throughout the room ranging from dates coinciding with holidays, a generous offer from anthon to share his birthday with you to ultimately choosing a day that falls within the timeline of your visit that way they can celebrate your first birthday with you and and by all meaning of the word, your celebration is a feast full of traditional snezhnayan foods

there's borsch, pelmeni, pirozhki, shashlik among many other things his family went all out on making. and your birthday cake? the largest sharlotka ajax's mother has ever baked. all complete with some last minute birthday gift purchases, all with a heartfelt note that reads that you now have a family to claim as your own

to say you're moved is quite an understatement. your tears can range from misty eyes to a few drops to buckets but in either scenario, you accept a hug from his equally teary-eyed mother and the rest of his extremely warm family

when ajax moves to kiss you when you have a private moment to yourselves later in the evening, it's the first time you don't stop him. perhaps that kiss was a mistake, ajax certainly won't stop chasing after you now. you can tell in the way he kisses you again and again like a man starved, unsure as to when a moment like this will drop at his feet. if anything, all you have done is cement your relationship in his eyes. a bond transcendent to the laws of this world and one that will continue after death comes for him once and for all

but at the very least, you can say it was nice playing human for a few weeks (even if behind the scenes, you performed your never ending duties. death never sleeps after all)

[ahmedmootaz]

Good evening! As some of the more stressful exams are finally over for me, I can finally get back to fun stuff! For my questions today, I have one for AiM and AiP. For AiP, what is the idea/concept you're most excited to write for epilogue 2/3? For AiM, how would you do the character arcs since Ayin and X would both be children (In terms of development like how X explored his 'happy ending' before having to give it up)? Anyways, hope you've been well, and Happy Holidays!

Dear hncdhnmfr,

Hello once more! As always, it's a pleasure to receive your asks, and I ask you to forgive me for replying to late! It has been a rough couple of weeks, so thank you for your patience!

For the AiP questions, although this delves into spoilery regions...I am quite excited to write interactions between characters that may not seem as if they have that much chemistry between them, and this goes for both epilogues. Characters that are outright opposing or otherwise seemingly like they would have nothing in common are the parts I look forward to writing most because I almost have a small personal challenge to make the interactions not only as organic as possible, but also derive a new, unexpected interaction from the clash of characters, so to say.

As for AiM, I think that in that case I would simply shed a LOT more light on X and Ayin during the Epilogues after Angela, Gebura and Binah would all get their own character development. It might actually take more writing than AiP to get the character arcs properly established, but there's nothing preventing me from having Ayin going through a similar process to the one he went through in AiP where be appealed more to his emotions and became significantly happier and better as a result considering he would be the eldest child at somewhere between 10 to 11 years, so while he would a child, the Disease or whatever remnants of it he would have would make him more 'adult' in how he thinks, with minor or major adjustments here and there, of course. Although considering X would be the youngest in this scenario, he's simply going to need to be expanded a LOT in a potential theoretical post-AiM series of Epilogues.

And once more, thank YOU for your wonderful questions! I always enjoy anything you have to ask, so don't hesitate to send more, even if I take a bit of time to respond! Sorry for that, hehe. Until next time, be well, take care, and stay safe! See ya'!

[ninjadeathblade]

Moulin Rouge Discotrain AU (Christmas Special Part Two)

Summary: Bet you were wondering where the others were. Well, they're here! And I'm very quickly typing this on Christmas morning.

Beginning | Previous | Next

Word count: 778

Warnings: Implied bad/crumbling relationship

Author's notes: I left it way too late to write this chapter. But it is here!

Conductor rolled towards the warmth beside him as he woke up.

It wasn't like a fire's warmth, where an all consuming urge would come over him despite having his powers suppressed.

It wasn't the heat that radiated from the train’s engines either.

Slowly he woke up more, smiling at where Grooves was still asleep beside him.

He could make out the excited squeaks of his grandkids from downstairs and the sound of the kettle boiling.

“Morning,” Grooves mumbled and Conductor returned his attention to the bird beside him.

The penguin squinted with bleary eyes at him but smiled nonetheless.

“Sorry, did I wake you?”

“Mm, no, I would've woken up anyway,” Grooves said. “Happy Christmas.”

“You too. Thanks for bein' here with me,” Conductor replied quietly, leaning over and giving Grooves a quick kiss.

“Don't know how you're so awake this early,” Grooves groaned as the owl sat up.

Conductor glanced at the clock on the wall. “It's half eight in the morning.”

“Yeah. Too early.”

Conductor chuckled as he got up, before getting dressed.

“I'm gonna head downstairs. Get some more sleep if yer need it.”

“Thanks angel.”

Conductor softly closed the door behind him before going downstairs.

Roxie still looked half asleep as she sat on the armchair in the front room, the children seemingly buried in what was already a sea of wrapping paper.

“Hi dad,” Roxie yawned as he sat down on the sofa.

“When did they wake you up?” He asked.

“About seven. This is my second mug of coffee. Kettle's still warm if you want some,” she offered.

Conductor shook his head before leaning forward and plucking a present out from under the tree. “That's for you.”

Roxie put down her mug before slowly opening the poorly-wrapped present.

“Dad. I already own this book.”

“I know. But that's the copy yer mother had,” Conductor explained. “She even got it signed.”

Roxie let out a choked sound, opening up the book and skimming her talons across the pages.

“Sylvie and the Songman is still one of my favourites,” Roxie admitted, closing it again and holding it close to her chest before pointing under the tree. “Thanks. The one wrapped in purple is yours.”

Conductor reached under and pulled out the - far more neatly wrapped - present.

He opened it up and let out a huff of laughter at the purple scarf.

“I hope you like it because decoding mum's old knitting books was a nightmare,” Roxie joked and Conductor wrapped it around his neck.

“Thank you lass.”

“Yeah yeah, you love me and all that. I know dad. Love you too.”

Roxie excused herself from the room when her phone rang.

She closed every door that she went through behind her before stepping outside and picking up the call.

“Hey Rox, I-”

“Where the peck are you?!” Roxie shouted.

“Hey, Rox, just calm down a little-”

“No, I am not going to pecking calm down!” Roxie interrupted. “Two years in a row now. Two pecking years that you haven't bothered to show your face at the holidays. You barely bothered to send presents.”

“Look, Rox, work has been busy, okay?” Alphonse finally gets a full sentence in.

Roxie sighed and took a seat, watching briefly as her breath fogs up the air.

“Too busy to see your kids? If you're so busy, how come you took them for a day out a couple weeks ago?”

A beat of silence.

“Rox, please-”

“No, don't you ‘Rox’ me. You need to start being there for the kids,” she snapped. “And you need to get your own apartment. I'm moving out of here to the city and unless you can be more reliable with seeing your family then you aren't welcome in my house.”

“Roxanne, come on,” Alphonse replied. “Don't be that way.”

Roxie scowls and picks up a stone on the ground next to her.

“I'm hanging up. I'd rather spend time with my family during the holidays than be wasting time talking to a peckneck.”

“Rox-”

She cut him off by hanging up and pocketing her phone.

A long sigh before throwing the stone as far as she could.

Then she dragged herself up to go back inside.

“Everythin’ alright, lass?” Conductor asked once she got back to the front room.

Roxie nods, before signing to him.

Al isn't pulling his weight with the kids.

Conductor's beak hangs open slightly before he looks over at the children themselves.

The bundles of yellow feathers had seemingly made tunnels through the destroyed wrapping paper.

He looks back at her and signs slowly and deliberately.

I'm always here to help look after them.

Roxie smiles.

“Thanks dad.”

[eureka-its-zico]

My friend. My dear friend. WHAT?! That had me on the edge of my seat reading your latest chapter of Chaos in our Bones. Like. I don't have enough words to express how crazy of a rollercoaster that was! I'm glad I'm on spring break cause girlllllll, she was a hefty chapter and I loved every second of it. The story is advancing so incredibly and I'm so glad to see you well and writing this incredible story that I know you're as excited to put out for us as we are to read. But, as your forever fan, what an amazing work of art you've gifted us and I couldn't be more grateful to read along on Doc and Zoro's adventure. Here's to what comes next for those two! 🎉✨🥳

Ps. I hope you are doing as well as you can be with everything going on and know I'm rooting for you from the sidelines ❤️.

Osiyo, darling!!!! How are you? It’s been a while since I’ve talked to you! I know it’s been an incredibly long time, but I do sincerely hope all of your finals etc., you had going on went incredibly well and you were able to rest over the holidays! Here’s to hoping this New Year has been treating you right 🖤

Thank you so incredibly much for your kind words about my two favorite idiots! I know the last two chapters were angsty as hell, so I’m trying to make outlines for chapter 10 and 11 to where they are more fun and less serious. Hopefully what I have written so far will make up for forcing you on the trauma rollercoaster 🤣🤣 and I super appreciate you saying the pacing for the story is good 😩 I am always struggling and worried it is a mess lol.

As always, please take care of yourself! Much love 🖤

[httpknjoon]

im literally eating up all this a-listers content like it’s my last meal🧎🏿‍♂️

Q&A questions: what made you two decide to spend the holidays together?

has there been a role that took to much of a toll on you (physically, mentally, etc.)?

what’s the biggest argument that the two of you have had?

happy new year and i hope your classes aren’t giving you too much trouble!!

note | oh, anon... here i serve you your ✨𝓃𝑒𝓍𝓉 𝓂𝑒𝒶𝓁✨ I tried not to give out spoilers about stuffs that I'll be posting soon but here it is! thank you so much for sending this, anon! happy new year to you too! i hope you're having a good day.

main masterlist | drabble series

"We had a busy year for 2021." you began, looking at Jin.

He agreed, "Yeah, almost half of that year our circle of friends didn't get to hangout much."

"So yeah, we tried to organize a getaway where all of our schedules would match and we all ended up being free for the holidays. Then, Jin said he is flying to Seoul for it so we just tagged along." you chuckled before speaking again. "Okay, let's move to the next question..."

You didn't mean to sound rush but it did came out like that. When read the question, Jin answered first, saying:

"Yeah, but I don't think it's because of the role. It's because of the circumstances of that time... So, I had a film that began production just two weeks before the lockdowns. It was starting good, we were in Europe. Then, just a couple of weeks there, we were told that we need to fly back here in the US because of the virus outbreak. It stressed me out badly since I really loved the role and the story that we were about to share. But since we had no idea when the virus ends, the production had to be on hold until it's safe."

"Oh, mine is when I was doing this action film. I was so excited to do a certain sequence because I trained for the whole eight weeks before production for the stunts. Then, I looked and felt really good because I was in this catsuit. A freaking tight catsuit in an action film because you know, it's Hollywood." you winked at the camera with the mocking tone in your sentence. "Anyways, so it was the day of filming. I had these wires attached to me. Then I did my sequence. But something went wrong with wires and I fell. Bad. I had an elbow injury and needed to rest for like a month and when I came back, I didn't got a chance to do what I trained for."

By the time you were finished sharing your experience, Jin's mouth was agape. "Oh my god. When was that?"

"I was nineteen, I guess. It was a long time ago. But sometimes I wished I could have done more stunts-- even though I'm an amateur in that area-- for that film."

"Well, will you be able to do stunts in the future again?" he asked out of curiosity.

You nodded, "Yeah, I think I can. If an offer comes, I'll think about it."

Cut to the third and last question, you and Jin looked directly at each others' eyes for a whole minute. Another scenario where you two would communicate telepathically, having second thoughts if you should answer it. You were shaking your head and Jin was nodding. It gets chaotic and you break down giggling.

"Let's just say, we had a fight about something. It was dumb--"

"It was a misunderstanding." Jin cuts you off.

"Okay, it's a misunderstanding. We ended up not talking for a long time. Like, really long time because I was somewhere for press tour and he was somewhere for production." you explained timidly, scartching the top of your head.

Jin butts in again with a mocking tone, "I was trying to reach out but--"

"Yeah, I kinda ignored his messages and calls. It was immature, I know. I apologized for it." you defended yourself. "But yeah, we only patched things up when I send him a picture of Francheskat to break the silence in our dusty conversation."

"Yeah, she said: hi. Then, followed by a picture of her cat. Then, I left it on seen for like an hour because I was about to go film when I saw that. Next thing I see, she flooded my inbox. I swear, I can feel her emotions getting intense in every message she sent." Jin chuckled.

You huffed, crossing your arms. "Then, we had an adult conversation. Just few hours laters, I received flowers with a card in my hotel room that he ordered online."

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[viatagrinner]

Christmas with Keith Howell.

Chapter 1 & 2.

Chapter 1.

Gentle Keith👇

MC's first winter as Keith's lover in Jade.

The prince shows how the city is decorated for Christmas.

But Keith's gaze is fixed on the heroine.

Keith: Today was the first time I was with you in the city decorated for Christmas. I'm so happy...

A gentle smile makes MC forget that it's winter.

MC: I'm a little uncomfortable, so please do it in moderation.

Keith: ...Yes, I'll do my best.

The girl is interested in the Christmas decorations. Keith leans closer to her and tells her that they are dried flowers woven into a Christmas wreath.

He knows well about the ornaments because every year he helps prepare for the Christmas party at the castle.

MC: I'm sure that every year the participants are pleased with Keith's attention to detail.

Keith: I hope they are.

Keith: I want you to have fun this year, so I'll put a lot of effort into it...

He immediately fell silent, apologizing.

After all, he hasn't even invited her, and he's already thinking about how he's going to have fun with her at the party: showing off the decorations at the palace, eating sweets, dancing.

(.... I'm genuinely excited that Keith is going to be at the party with me.)

Keith: Miss MC, would you like to join me at the Christmas party?

MC: Yes, I'd love to. I'm already looking forward to decorations, sweets, and dancing.

She asks permission to help him prepare for the holiday. Keith doesn't want to bother her because it's her first Christmas in Jade.

But Keith quickly gives up. When his sweetheart looks at him like that, there can only be one answer.

Keith: I want you to help me with the holiday preparations.

As they walk through the bustling city, however, thoughts are swirling in the girl's head about what to get both Keith.

━━━━━━━༻❀✿❀༺━━━━━━━

Keith's room.

They eat cake. The heroine is delighted, the prince is pleased.

She's been looking around pastry shops for gifts, but Keith seems to know sweets from Jade better.

Mean/Alter Keith 👇

Keith: Anything.

Keith: I like that cake too.

Keith: Even in the city you look back and forth, eating your favorite sweets, but wondering if you're really always thinking of me, aren't you?

MC decided to ask what to get Keith.

Keith: I told you in the beginning, I don't care.

Keith seems to have been watching and knows that she has several gift options in addition to sweets.

MC: I want to give both Keith's a gift that they will like equally.

Keith: Isn't that easy?

Keith poked his finger on her cheek.

(Could it be...me!?)

The girl is embarrassed, a reaction that pleased Keith, but the gift is different. It's to help her get ready for the party.

Keith asks in a "gentle" Keith tone.

Keith: However "Miss" MC, did you just think of an embarrassing thing?

She tries to look away, but Keith grabs her chin and touches her lips with his finger.

Keith: Here, tell me with your mouth.

Chapter 2.

MC confesses that she thought of embarrassing things.

For her honest answer, the prince kissed her.

Keith: You did well.

Have MC add that to her list of choices of what she wants to give him, too.

Keith: I look forward to what you will give us that day.

*A passionate kiss*

━━━━━━━༻❀✿❀༺━━━━━━━

Time has passed.

Keith's Room.

Gentle Keith 👇

Today's task was to create a card to send to the invited guests.

They colored and decorated the cards for each nobleman.

Keith praises her for the way she decorates the cards.

As she went about her work, she was reminded of the kiss with evil Keith and how he asked her awkward thought to make a gift option, too.

Her cheeks flushed.

At that moment, Keith's face moved closer to her and a gentle kiss touched her lips.

Keith: Miss MC, were you thinking about him?

Keith: Right now, it's just me...right?

Agreeing, the girl received a few more kisses.

Embarrassed, they went back to their business. Writing invitations with servants is fun. But MC's presence makes him happier.

MC: Keith, can I help you with your preparations next year? And in another year?

MC: I want to feel the joy and happiness of approaching Christmas together.

Keith is happy and throws his arms around his lover.

━━━━━━━༻❀✿❀༺━━━━━━━

Ballroom

Mean/Alter Keith 👇

MC and Keith have to decorate a gorgeous tree.

Keith: ...I'd like to do my best.

MC wanted to put a star on top of the tree, but realizing she couldn't do it because she couldn't reach it, she reached into the box to put the ornaments back.

Suddenly her body was in the air.

It was Keith who lifted her up so she could attach the ornament to the top of the tree.

(Since he's lifting me up like that, I feel like Keith is a man...)

(Big and strong. .....Oh, no. The more I think about it, the more embarrassed I get!)

She asks to be put in her place. But Keith refuses.

Keith: Because it feels good to hold you in my arms.

It's embarrassing, but she's happy to spend time with him. Happy to decorate trees and happy to make up invitations.

(The preparations make me feel like I've gotten to know Keith in a deeper way than I ever have before.)

━━━━━━━༻❀✿❀༺━━━━━━━

Gentle Keith. 👇

Keith's bedroom.

While talking to the prince, the heroine began to feel sick. Then her stomach rumbled.

MC apologized for the loud sound of her hungry stomach.

Keith: Don't mind me. You're cute, even the sound of your stomach.

He's glad she's hungry.

The prince took her to the greenhouse.

The castle chef was preparing the menu for the party and left something for her to try.

Keith: I feel like I'm enjoying the party before anyone else.

Before the party he has something to give.

[kezibun]

I can just imagine being this man ok, so a regular brings in a bunch of friends! How exciting is that as a small business? Ok you're gonna want to treat them right, show them that your business is good and generous and make them want to come back. Only to be called creepy for your kindness.

Now story time.

Once as a kid, while on holiday my family went to a coffee shop and the manager was Italian, he said me and my cousin reminded him of his grandkids (we have dark hair and eyes and we'd been playing in the sun all summer so we were pretty tan too) and he gave all the kids this marshmallow on a stick dipped in chocolate and sprinkles for free. (There was at least 5 of us) we came back again the next day to say thank you again but he wasn't there. I hope he's doing well.

In my experience Italians are just that kind, it seems ingrained in their culture to feed people and be genuinely generous and kind, I'm friends with an Italian family and if you go over to there house even for just a minute to say hi or something you will be fed. I was out and about with one of them and she had to pop home to pick up something and I ended up having lunch with Nona.

Be kind to different cultures and don't be cold like that grumpy 30 year old white women. (I say that as a white woman in her 20's) and man love Italy, they're awesome.

[wolfchans]

Hi Lau, I'm back! I really hope your exam went well? All the best for any others you have to take, and if that was your last, well... I hope they all went in your favour! And I hope that you get to relax lots when they are all done! I'm doing good, thank you. I'd like to know who your bias is, and why they are your bias? What made them stand out, why you were drawn to them and your favourite thing(s) about them? Also, because it is holiday season, what do the holidays mean to you? Do you celebrate? If you don't, what do you like about this time of year (winter) in general? -🌠

hellooooo!!!!! i really hope it went well too lol i don't know when i'll get the grade back and it's making me so antsyyyyy dhjdfhjkdf

i have another exam on the 14 rip and if the one i had recently goes well i have the final exam on the 18 (which is an oral exposition and im so T-T) after that i shall be free until february thats when the next round of finals are on again

i bias all of skz hyung line (chris, minho & changbin) but my ult is chris and it's the option i gave on the form for the event! funnily enough he wasn't the one that made me stan skz but he's the one that was for me yk? i guess it's bc he just reminds me of me, he's really caring and always tries to help to the best of his capacity, he's like basically a mom friend and everyone i've met always tells i'm like a mom friend too and yeah i guess it's bc he just kinds of reminds me of myself (eldest kids gotta stick together) the goofy personality, the amazing stage presence and overall chan-ness was what really made him be my ult, for minho it was something similar! i love that he teases everyone affectionately, that he shows his love silently with actions and not words, he's a really silly little guy and i love him a lot <3 changbin actually uhhh became my bias after a performance where he looked really good i can't remember which one it was rn but the arms were calling me lmao what i love about him is how attentive he is to everyone, he's such a reliable guy and it shows how much he loves and cares about everyone with how he speaks about them, he's literally the pillar of skz and i'm so thankful of him, i absolutely adore when he shows his cute side for the giggles too <3

owo that was so long! sorry hahaha

we do celebrate christmas! we just have dinner on christmas eve and then on the 25 it's just lunch, we are all old here at home so the most exciting part is the food lol the holidays mean a break from the constant stress of school for me, here's summer at this time of the year so we have a long break from school after the holidays and it's my only favorite part lol the summer heat not so much but i can just laze around for a few weeks without having my exams breathe down my neck lmao

i hope you're doing well and staying warm these days <3

[overnightheartbeats]

"I'm taking quirky title, I'm making an impression already. I like it." Quirky was one interesting adjective, but she didn't mind it at all. It was a funny one to her. "Sounds like I should be thanking your family for your party appearance then. I'm really glad you took a chance," she confessed with full sincerity. Was she being completely obvious in her interest? Yes, definitely. There was no hiding it, but Laurel was glad they met. Whether things went how she hoped or not. Friends would still be a very good outcome. She found herself smiling as she looked at him, taking in each feature that complimented those rosy cheeks. "No, she doesn't, but I wish! She's out in California, her and her boyfriend stayed out there for college. I worked really hard to convince them, but didn't happen this time. They might come visit soon though."

Laurel's smile widened when he talked about Juju, making a note to tell her later when she called her. It also just warmed her heart how he easily picked up on her connection to that wonderful girl she called her best friend. "She does, I miss her a ton too. Definitely not, bribery would work on me too," she joked, joining his laughter with her own. Still, his laughter caught her attention - the way his eyes crinkled, oh Laurel was swooning. It was the kind of laughter that made her want to keep saying or doing anything just to elicit that reaction again.

Was she serious, she couldn't really tell to be quite honest. It was the kind of thing said in a joking manner, but she wouldn't mind if it did. She'd leave it at that. "No hogging the blanket; I mean, if you keep me warm, there's no need to hog blankets," she said with a gleam of mischief in her eyes, her flirting getting ridiculously obvious. "But, okay I'm taking notes here. Hey, I don't judge awesome blankets." He really didn't mind, huh. She figured most people minded ditching classes, Laurel usually didn't until she realized that skipping a class meant falling behind. Now, she was strict about going, but today? An exception could be made. So, it was the complete truth when she answered. "Good, I don't mind at all either. I'm excited to learn more about you and," her words trailed off when he took her hand. It was a nice fit - their hands interlocked. Oh, Julia was right, she was falling...expeditiously. "Okay, but I'll get the next one. Yes? Just to keep it even." Without thinking, already eagerly requesting a next one. Seeing his attitude shit, Laurel made the silent decision to not bring Jenny up again, not wanting to sour the mood. "Well, I don't really like third wheels. Quick thinking on your part, wiggling me out of dinner with that class project you told her about."

With his sigh, she was quick to wonder if she had asked the wrong thing or if he was one of the guys who was annoyed by the astrology questions. Though, when he began talking, she felt terrible for even bringing it up. "Oh, I see. I'm sorry, I didn't think...well I didn't think at all when asking. A holiday birthday, so you're kicking off the year with a birthday, wow. You're still close with your foster family, it sounds like." It seemed like a real family to her, the kind of closeness and bond that most families lacked. She was already shaking her head at herself for her blunder when his chuckle caught her off guard. Her eyes were drawn back up to him, a soft nod in response to his question. A slightly awkward laugh escaped her, "I mean, I wasn't thinking of that but compatible signs are interesting," she admitted. "It does depend on all that, but I will say - astrology is not make or break for me. How about you? Would you ghost me if we're like the worst astrological match in history?"

"I never thought I'd meet someone let alone someone so quirky as you." Eli laughed not meaning anything bad by that statement. "My family said that I should go out and meet people. They know I'm not really a people person but that night I took a chance." Long eyelashes splayed across a semi rosy cheeks. Juju he committed to memory as that being her best friend. "I'm assuming she doesn't come to UT Texas? Were is she?"

He found her fascinating and the way she'd speak about her best friend. There was love there just like when he spoke about Issac and his sisters. That was a bond that could never be explained to its full extent. "She sounds like she misses you and will not be above bribery." The thought eliciting a laugh from him that made his eyes crinkle.

Was she serious about sharing the bed, he searched her eyes and happened to get lost in those pretty hazel of hers. After a moment when she didn't rescind it he smiled and nodded. "Just don't hog the blanket. I get cold," he teased not at all being serious about it. If anything he was an actual furnace. "And don't laugh at my very awesome blankets." Ditching class was not something that he wasn't completely turned off to. He had done it multiple times but this was the first time he wasn't running off to see what Emma needed. "Oddly enough I don't mind. I'm looking forward to getting to know each other." A sincere smile spread across his features as he interlocked their hands. "No, let me get it. It's my treat. Tonight." The talk of Jenny made him take on an indifferent attitude. "I am glad she didn't stick to her plan to wedge herself into our plans. I might have probably not been the guy you wanted to meet."

Eli sighed and shrugged not looking at her. He probably should have lead with this before. "My birthday is the second thing I've got no clue on. When I said my little sister, I actually mean foster sister. I don't have a real family. I was adopted into my foster siblings' family in my tweens. I grew up in an orphanage in the outskirts of Chicago. One night I got dropped off into that orphanage and they felt bad that I was the only one who had no name or birthday so they named me and gave me a January first birthday. The day they took me in." Astrology made him glance over briefly and chuckled. "You mean if signs are compatible? It depends on your birthday and your alignment." His lips curled into a smile. "Astrology is interesting."