#I want to stay overnight this time but I'm honestly not sure I'd be in a good state by the time I get there. This is tricky. :(

[stampstamp]

I want to go to Rabbit Island again but I'm looking at the (6 hour?) journey times and wondering how I managed it in 2019. I think it helped that I had more energy then and had places to visit along the way. My stamina is so low these days and I'm even more sensitive to stress than I was last time I went. It might be feasible if I keep taking vitamins but ough. Even the plane is 1hr30 and after that I'd still need to take a train to a port where the ferry stops at.

[madebysimblr]

[Juliana babbling]

Gemma: After we get lunch, Mommy needs to rest ok?

Juliana: Watch movie??

Gemma: Sure, we can watch a movie. Maybe Daddy will get home in time to join us.

Juliana: Yay, yay!

???: Oh! Mrs. Mason?

Gemma: Uh…? I'm sorry do I know you?

Andi: Not officially! I'm Andi Hagen, your neighbor! Good to finally meet you! And this darling little girl, hello sweetie!

Gemma: Oh, right. I've met you husband, Julio? Sorry but I need to go sit down-

Andi: Oh well how about you come in for a cup of tea! My daughter has outgrown some toys that this little one could take off my hands!

Gemma: Um. Ok.

Andi: I feel like a bad neighbor, but I travel so much for work I think I've yet to catch you! Gemma and Juliana, anyone else I've missed?

Gemma: Uh. My husband, Matty. He works a lot.

Andi: Not too much I hope! What do you do?

Gemma: Oh.. Just a stay at home Mom.

Andi: Nothing 'just' about that, dear. I was too before my kids grew up! Here you go sweetie, something for you!

Juliana: Hank you Andi!!!

Andi: Very polite! Well done! Am I right in thinking your workload is about to double? [gestures to stomach]

Gemma: Oh. Yeah. Another girl.

Andi: Ah congratulations!

Gemma: Thanks.

Andi: ... You don't seem too thrilled?

Gemma: [sighs heavily] It's just… I ran into some people I went to high school with today. All of them are visiting the area for the holidays. Because all of them are off doing something different and fun with their lives. None of them are married. None of them have kids…. It's not that I regret my daughter, I just… Life isn't quite going the way I imagined… That's all.

Andi: I understand. You became a mother young. Is your husband as young as you?

Gemma: Yes. He is.

Andi: How is he handling it?

Gemma: Well…. He had been really upset for a while. Sad I guess. His whole life plan changed overnight…. But when I told him I was pregnant again, I was honestly surprised. I thought he might get angry, but he seems happy about it.

Andi: …. Does he get angry often?

Gemma: Recently yeah… But I think it's just because he's so stressed from work.

Andi: I'm sure… Well how about we exchange numbers. I work from home often, I'd be happy with some extra company.

Gemma: Oh… I wouldn't want to bother.

Andi: It's no bother!

[gracegrove]

Whether you're talking about a fictional character (Billy) or an actual person...

How can you say, "I don't think his abusive, racist, misogynistic behavior would have improved with time--because he didn't see it as a problem. You have to want to change."

How did you know he didn't want to change? Why are you so damn certain he's incapable of change? He's literally only 18 and has the rest of his entire life to change. You think he's honestly gonna sit there and be like, "nah this is fine. I'm set. I like everything just the way it is." And never once contemplate or attempt a change.

Every person attempts change on some level. Not everyone makes big ground shaking changes. Not everyone gets to a point that is satisfactory to others. That's not the point.

When you are around real people and/or work with real people and use this language guess what happens? It makes them feel incapable. It feels undermining. It helps solidify and corner them into a box they may not want to necessarily stay or be in.

I've worked with clients with records. Clients who've said outright sexist and bigoted things in front of me and at times directed towards me. But I continued to work with them. Guess why? Because if I were to leave in that instance, I'd only be proving a point. A single point. That again there's this giant narrative of "no one believes in you", "you clearly don't want help", "you're irredeemable", etc.

You don't kick someone when they're already down and then say, "gosh well, you don't even wanna get back up do you? You have to really want it?" Why should they want it or try harder when they're expecting more people like you to kick them right back to the floor again. Google "labeling theory", it might be helpful.

There's an therapeutic approach called Motivational Interviewing, and its main tenant is that change is facilitated by and comes from the client alone. It helps a client who is already well aware of people around them telling them to change, or societal expectations, or maybe more simply they have considered personally making changes themselves whether it's something like smoking cessation, substance use /harm reduction, emotional management, or wanting to make other behavioral changes but they haven't because they're not sure what such a change would mean or look like in their lives. So they sit on the fence. They become ambivalent.

The only job the therapist has in this is to help the client lay all this out. To discuss it and weigh each side. To examine what making changes or no changes would mean. Ultimately the goal is to help the client reach a state of active change. So that the client can begin new parts of their life and continue moving forward. But if someone isn't ready, then they're not and that's also ok.

If you immediately shut down on a fictional character because their story wasn't insightful enough for you to glean any empathy that they were capable of change, how do you or will you tolerate the overall change process that real people have? Because it's an arduous one. It takes time, it doesn't sprout up overnight. And half of it is because those people themselves were repeatedly told that they couldn't change either.

So stop contributing to the ambivalence or the stagnancy and start contributing to the change.

[garden-of-mancers]

Do you have any examples of when you would want to send out an imaginary friend?

I do! I don't have any suggestions for a specific time to send an IF out, (I'd usually send one out overnight or for a few days, just whenever I felt the impulse to do so), but I do have examples for why you'd do it. Also, most of these suggestions are based in magic and witchcraft-flavored spirituality, so I understand if this stuff is really Not relevant to everyone.

A couple specific examples I can think of are as follows:

If you want them to become more autonomous or eventually leave you for good, sending them out is good practice. I know autonomy is more of a goal in traditional tulpamancy, but in my experience, having an IF who's done a few tasks unsupervised makes lucid dreaming with them a bit easier? In this case, sending them out is like a practice exercise; it's just one of the many activities you can do to increase their ability to act alone.

If you have some kind of mystical or non-material thing you want your IF to retrieve for you. Maybe you accidentally left another imaginary friend at an outing. Send your IF out to go get them! Does your IF come from another land where they have unique items? Send your IF out to go bring you some! (And you might spend their time away crafting the actual items for them to give you when they return.) If you've lost an item, there are many superstitious solutions to help you find them faster. Some I've heard of are astral projecting to look for the item, visualizing yourself finding it or having it, and saying the name of the item and sticking a sewing pin in a couch cushion. Well, why not send your IF out to look for the item? Who knows, it might turn up once they've returned. (And if it does, you can say your IF told you where to find it or that they put it there.)

If you just want to be alone. If you're doing a ritual or meditation that requires solitude, (something like the hide and seek alone creepypasta is the only thing I can think of off the top of my head lol), or if you're burned out socially and you need to make sure you stay alone, send them out. Sometimes when I'm in a bad place mentally and want to fight with everyone, it was nice to tell the one person I could control "We need some space" and let her vacation halfway across the world for a bit. If you think about them while they're gone, you can remind yourself that they're at the lake or whatever. And if they pop back in anyway, you can always say, "Hey, aren't you supposed to be at the lake?"

One psychological perk of having an IF is that you have a degree of control over them that you cannot exert over other people, pets, or headmates (if you're a system). I'm not saying this in a "you're my servant and you have to do what I say" kind of way; just that being able to create something, decide their appearance and traits, and have them come and go at your desire gives an IF's creator a level of autonomy and control that can be beneficial to your mental health. As an action, sending an IF out has the benefit of a caring act (packing, walking them to and from bus stop) AND asserting control over your environment. Hence: easy mental health hack.

Yes, I get that you can *technically* just make your IF disappear or stay in your headspace/inner world/wherever IFs go when they're not currently interacting with you. However, I prefer having near-omnipresent IFs. I'm unemployed and housebound, so it's not obtrusive for them to be there hangin out 24/7. So, whenever I get overwhlemed or DO want some alone time for more than a few hours, why not turn my IF's absence into a game or a part of their lore and experience?

And my final reason:

Just to let them go on an adventure! Honestly, I only started doing this because I had a travel journal that I never filled. I'm too disabled to travel now, so I would just send my old IF out to various locations and then write her adventures in the journal instead lol. It was a really cute journal! I wasn't gonna waste it lol.

-♥️-

(Sorry if this was overexplained or sounded patronizing. I am an overexplainer over text; if someone asks for clarification, I want to make SURE you get your answer the second time 'round 😂)

TL;DR: Sending an IF on an adventure by themselves can make them more autonomous, give them an active role in various magic spellwork, and provide psychological benefits for both the IF and the creator.

[mean-scarlet-deceiver]

What kind of dynamic do you think Thomas and Oliver have? Both tank engines are mascots of their respective branchlines, both run a push-pull service, and have coaches with names -- seems ripe for story potential!

I reckon they'd either love each other or hate each other, lol. Usually we as a fandom focus on the antagonism we suppose Thomas and Duck would have. But while I'm sure those two just don't "get" each other and are privately kinda mutually judgmental, I think they also just... stay out of each other's way.

Oliver, though. He made such a big splash when he arrived — the big engines were all fawning over him, a mere tank engine, lolllll — can you imagine what a funhouse-mirror world Thomas would have felt he was in, if he overnighted even once at Tidmouth during this period? — and TVS, reasonably I think, characterizes Thomas as being so suspicious of new tank engines. So I think Oliver really would just drive Thomas bonkers. If Thomas can get into a jealous tizzy over, like, friggin' Stanley, I don't know how Oliver would have failed to made Thomas (Great Western) green with jealousy.

Honestly, in Thomas's frames, I'd feel insecure. Oliver became famous for fleeing the braying diesel hounds of the B.R. all the way across the mainland and making a heroic escape to Sodor. Thomas (who at this point hadn't even left his safe, quaint little island for over 50 years) became famous for... leaving his guard behind and throwing a snowplough tantrum. Like. They are not the same. 😅

But, if Thomas can handle the major mid-life crisis I suspect Oliver's arrival kicked off for him without melting down, then I can also see the two just vibing. They have enough in common to feel competitive or to simply hit it off. They're both sociable and hasty and cheeky. Furthermore, the balance of respect might be restored because, while Oliver is more dashing, Thomas is definitely the leadership-y one and I don't think Oliver poses the slightest threat to that. Oliver just wants to live his life and have fun. He works very happily under Duck (who tbh I can see sometimes being a bit overbearing and fussy), he ain't in no way going to go getting under Thomas's wheels.

It might be fun if stormy weather/collapsed track/line repairs reduced trains on the Little Western for a while so Oliver is sent to the Ffarquhar to spot for one of the other engines. I feel like Oliver might be a bit like a bull in a china shop on that little line... Toby would get tired just watching him zoom around and terrorize the coaches, while all the other engines would feel pleasantly sedate and responsible by comparison. Thomas would develop a Pavlovian cringe every time Terence or Bertie greeted him with a shit-eating grin coz he knows they're about to congratulate him on what a fine job he's doing keeping order on his line (i.e., they're about to tell him the latest disaster Oliver caused). One day for Reasons Oliver has to take some coaches that aren't push-pull fitted and when he runs round the train (how annoying!) he forgets to get coupled and storms off down the line without them. Thomas would be at the junction venting about what a headache and a pest Oliver is. Gordon and Henry are shaking with laughter and with the feeling that this is just Sodor Karma (belatedly) at work. Back at Tidmouth Duck is raising exactly one eyebrow and saying Oliver has only ever had one incident on his line (unsaid: too bad for Thomas but some of us are Built Different). Daisy is confused when she returns from the Works and even Annie and Clarabel join in the loud cheers that greet her arrival.

[leqclerc]

You were in Monaco? I’ve always wanted to go even just because I love microstates! Did you stay overnight or just pop over the border?

Hello! 😊

Yeah it was just a day trip!

We actually went about it in a really roundabout way, because we were coming from the Italian side (having spent a few days in Venice and Verona initially, then getting a train to Milan, and from Milan another train to the border town of Ventimiglia. From there we took – you guessed it – a 20 minute train over to the French coastal town of Menton, where we stayed for two days) rather than, like, the usual route of Nice -> Monaco. But Monaco has always been a bucket list location/experience for me so I knew I wanted to go, even just for a day. And I mean, Menton in itself is gorgeous, so I highly recommend visiting it or using it as a "base" if you're heading to Monaco. They've got trains running basically every few minutes so it's super easy to get to Monaco (and beyond) and enjoy some Riviera views on the way. We got in around 9am and left around 9pm. It was a regular day and not the race weekend so it was a lot quieter than it would've been otherwise, but yeah.

Then from the Monte Carlo train station we mostly walked. Though we did take the red tour bus, right from the first stop, and did the full loop just to get a feel for where everything is. We then ended up getting out by the casino and kind of exploring on foot from there. At one point we also took the little shuttle boat that gets you from one side of the harbour to the other. I had some stuff that like, I knew I wanted to do or see or had tickets for (Prince's car collection) but for the most part we just kind of wandered around and took it all in. Cons: as walkable as it is, it can still be kind of tiring and time consuming so in hindsight honestly I kind of regret we never researched the city buses. I feel like that would be a good option to get around quicker and also kind of get a feel for how the locals live rather than just doing strictly touristy things (I say this as someone who was on a packed city bus from Maranello to Modena with a bunch of local school kids and honestly it was An Experience and like sometimes it's fun to do stuff like that). Also the lack of wifi/phone data was definitely an issue. I mean they do have like, public free wifi spots in some places (definitely works at the train station and also the hairpin) but not everywhere so the rest of the time you're kind of going in blind unless you've downloaded offline maps or tickets or made notes or something. I'm sure there's a way around that – like how all the international journalists go there to cover the F1/FE/etc races – but I haven't found any solid solution for this online. My phone network provider didn't have a data package for Monaco specifically so that was a no-go. Ultimately it didn't matter all that much for one day but if I were going for longer I'd probably like to have some backup on top of like those free wifi spots.

But yeah, if you ever get the chance to go I recommend it! I honestly wish I could've stayed for longer and maybe had a "slow" kind of holiday because as small as it is there were still places I didn't get to see or experience (Larvotto beach for example) but even just being there for a few hours felt super satisfying and fulfilling after watching it on TV for years. ❤️

[crestfallercanyon]

✨weekly✨tag✨wednesday monday✨

HELLO! I'm so sorry I'm so late, life has been lifing so I've been heckin' busy. I was tagged by two lovely people, @jrooc and @michellemisfit

Name: crest

Age: mid 20s!

Location: near the sea

we're going on a trip!!

📍where are we going? Banff, Canada.

📍whats the weather like there right now? I imagine it's a little colder than where I'm currently at -- probably more snow?

📍are you an over-packer or a light-packer? I also somehow pack too much but also I tend to miss a few crucial items that i'm always kicking myself over.

📍are we taking a plane or a train? I would love to take a train, but it's most likely going to be a plane.

📍early morning departure or an overnight trip? i'm an early morning departure kind of girlie. I like to spend a little bit of time at the hotel and then do one thing in the evening, if I can manage it.

📍what song are you playing in the car while we drive to catch our departure? I probably curated a whole playlist for the trip. If we're going to Banff, there's probably a lot of Lord Huron kind of vibes.

📍we need to grab something on the way, starbucks or dunkin? I want to be someone who loves dunkin' donuts, but I'm sorry, I just don't. I pick Starbucks between the two. I'll probably get a vanilla sweet cream cold brew.

📍we've made it to the transportation place 🚂✈️! be honest, are we on-time or are we rushing because we're running late? We're several hours early. I'd rather wake up at 2AM and make sure we're at the airport for a 5AM flight and have way too much time at the airport than be nervous in an airport about missing a flight.

📍are you taking the window seat or the aisle seat? Window please!

📍we're settled in our seats, are you gonna read or watch a movie/show? between those two, I'll probably read. honestly though, I have a tendency to just listen to music and look out the window. Occasionally I will get a podcast downloaded and listen to that.

📍what are you reading/watching? I'm currently reading Godkiller by Hannah Kaner, because I forgot I borrowed it from a friend and need to read that first.

📍are you using wireless or wired headphones? Either, I do have both.

📍are you going to take a nap or stay awake? I can't sleep on planes. I'm probably awake the whole time.

📍do you want a salty snack or a sweet snack? I tend to have both -- kind of like the movies, there's a particular chocolate candy I only get when I go to the airport, and then I like getting their pretzel bags. And then a hot tea, if they have it.

📍we've arrived! are we heading straight to activities or are we gonna rest at the hotel? Stop off at the hotel first. There's nothing that makes me more anxious or awkward than lugging my luggage around a place I don't know very well.

📍finally, pick a treat to reward yourself for a travel day well done! I usually like to go see one thing and then go to a hole in the wall kind of restaurant.

_____________________

ANYONE WHO WANTS TO DO THIS IS NOW TAGGED. Anyone who was missed last week or whoever, it's all you -- I'm sorry I was so late lmao.

[darkstar225]

Twice's 10th member ft the unnies testing her GF (Girls' Generation's Tiffany)

A/N: Heyyy, I'm coming up with a lot of stuff for you guys so I can make up for the time I'm gone lol! Sry for taking so long to post :D I hope that my friends LyraxTy and Thira_Harris from Wattpad and @snowy12 on Tumblr, who gave me this ideas that were very similar (so I mixed them) like it! :)

The requests: 

Ask 1: Hi I just saw your update for where y/n is dating Tiffany from girls generation and I want to request can you do where it's the same they're still dating (Tiffany and y/n) and it's Tiffany first time staying a night at twice dorm and when it's bed time the members ask for her helps to put y/n to sleep because y/n have a lot of energy. Thank you ❤️ Can you do it and love you ❤️

Ask 2: Hi I saw your update where y/n and Tiffany are dating can you where the members put Tiffany on a test how she handles y/n tantrum, naughtiness and anything else so they can see how she do it and gave some tips.Can you make it different from the others cuz I know it's kinda similar. Thank you ❤️

Ask 3: Can you make it a different one because they want to see how Tiffany can handle y/n if they were being left alone

PS: Tysm for everyone who reads what I write, I hope I can bring a smile to your faces every time I post! I'd like to thank whoever sent me this idea 'cause I loved to write it <3

__________________________________________________________

The sun had dipped below the horizon, casting a tranquil twilight over the bustling city of Seoul. Inside the cosy TWICE dorm, the members were gathered in the living room, exchanging playful banter and laughter, a rare moment of respite in their busy schedules. It was a special evening, for it marked the first time that Tiffany, a member of Girls' Generation, was staying overnight at the dorm. Y/N, the tenth and youngest member of TWICE, had been dating Tiffany for a while now, and the two had finally decided to take this significant step in their relationship.

As the night grew darker, the maknae's boundless energy showed no sign of weakening. She darted around the room, giggling and causing a delightful ruckus. Her playful antics earned her chuckles from the TWICE members and an affectionate eye-roll from Tiffany.

Jihyo, the group's leader, exchanged a knowing glance with the other members. It was time to put Tiffany to the test, to see how she handled Y/N's occasional bursts of mischief and rampant energy.

Jihyo - Nayeon unnie, you're up first *whispering while nudging the eldest girl*

Nayeon cleared her throat and called out. 

Nayeon - Y/N, sweetie, come here for a moment.

The younger girl's eyes sparkled with curiosity as she bounded over to Nayeon. 

Y/N - What is it, unnie?

Nayeon put on her most convincing pout and spoke again. 

Nayeon - Hon, I'm feeling a bit tired. Do you think you could sing me a lullaby to help me fall asleep?

Y/N's face lit up with excitement. 

Y/N - Of course, unnie! I'll sing you the best lullaby ever!

As TWICE's sunshine began to sing an adorably off-key rendition of a children's lullaby, Tiffany couldn't help but giggle. Nayeon gave a thumbs-up to signal the success of the first test.

Next up was Momo, known for her playful nature. She decided to challenge Tiffany in a game of hide-and-seek with her little sister. 

Momo - Hey, darling, want to play a game with me and Tiffany unnie?

Y/N's eyes gleamed with excitement. 

Y/N - Sure, unnie! What are we playing?

Momo explained the rules, and soon the living room turned into a makeshift hide-and-seek arena. TWICE's little storm (lol) dashed around the room, giggling, while Tiffany pretended to search for her. Momo winked at the other members, impressed by Tiffany's ability to engage in the game with enthusiasm.

Meanwhile, Dahyun took the opportunity to strike up a conversation with Tiffany. 

Dahyun - So, Tiffany unnie, how are you finding it so far?

Tiffany smiled warmly, watching her girl's antics. 

Tiffany - Honestly, it's a lot of fun. Y/N is a bundle of energy, but I love it cause she keeps me on my toes.

Dahyun - That's good to hear. Just remember, we're always here to help if you need it. *nodding*

As the night wore on, the members continued to test Tiffany's patience and adaptability. Chaeyoung asked for her help with a challenging art project, and Sana enlisted her assistance in baking cookies. Tiffany handled each task with grace and a warm smile, endearing herself to the TWICE members even more.

As the night progressed, Y/N's energy finally began to weaken. She settled down on the couch, her eyelids growing heavy. Tiffany joined her, wrapping an arm around her as they watched a movie together.

The other members discreetly retreated to their rooms, leaving Tiffany and Y/N in the living room. They had passed their tests with flying colours, and it was clear that Tiffany had won the hearts of the TWICE members.

As the movie came to an end, Y/N yawned and snuggled closer to Tiffany. 

Y/N - Unnie, I'm sleepy.

Tiffany smiled down at her. 

Tiffany - Alright, sweetheart. Let's get you to bed.

With gentle guidance, Tiffany led TWICE's babygirl to her room and tucked her into bed. Her eyes were drooping, but before drifting off to sleep, she whispered: I love you, Tiffy.

Tiffany's heart melted at the affectionate nickname. She leaned down and placed a soft kiss on Y/N's forehead. 

Tiffany - I love you too, my little energy ball.

As Tiffany turned off the lights and closed the door, she couldn't help but reflect on the incredible bond she had with Y/N and the TWICE members. They were a family, and she was grateful to be a part of it. In that quiet moment, she knew that her relationship with Y/N was something truly special, something worth cherishing forever.

The next morning, the sun bathed the city of Seoul in a warm, golden glow. Inside the TWICE dorm, the members were bustling about, getting ready for the day ahead. Y/N had just woken up, and her energy levels seemed to have already reached peak capacity. She bounced around the room, playfully causing chaos with her mischievous antics.

Tiffany, who had stayed overnight at the dorm for the first time, watched Y/N with a mixture of amusement and awe. She couldn't help but chuckle at the youngest's boundless energy, but she also knew that things could change in an instant. Y/N had a reputation for occasionally throwing a tantrum when she didn't get her way.

As the morning progressed, Y/N's behaviour became progressively more naughty. She rearranged items in the living room, spilt a glass of juice, and even tried to steal Mina's snacks. Tiffany observed quietly, knowing that she had to be prepared for what might come next.

Jihyo, the group's leader and the unofficial mother of Y/N, noticed the mischievous glint in her child's eyes. She exchanged a knowing glance with the other members and decided it was time to offer Tiffany some guidance.

She approached Tiffany with a knowing smile. 

Jihyo - Tiffany unnie, Y/N is my kid and I know she's hard to deal with but if she's like today, treat her with lots of care, okay?

Tiffany smiled, grateful for the sudden advice. 

Tiffany - Of course, Jihyo. Thank you! 

As the morning wore on, Y/N's mischief escalated. She pulled pranks on Jeongyeon, hid Sana's favourite snacks, and even tried to escape with Chaeyoung's art supplies. But Tiffany handled each situation with a patient smile and a gentle reprimand, never losing her cool.

Finally, it was Jihyo's turn to help Tiffany navigate a Y/N tantrum. She approached her baby, who had just discovered her playful tricks were no longer working on Tiffany.

Jihyo - Y/N, sweetheart...

Jihyo began speaking, pretending to be distressed.

Jihyo - I'm really tired. Could you please be a bit quieter?

Y/N, who had been about to pull another prank, froze mid-action. She looked at Jihyo with wide eyes, her playful demeanour instantly shifting to concern. 

Y/N - Oh, mama, I'm so sorry if I was being too loud. I'll be quiet, I promise.

Jihyo smiled and ruffled Y/N's hair affectionately with a motherly smile on her face. 

Jihyo - Thank you, my heart. You're such a lovely girl.

Tiffany watched the interaction with admiration for Jihyo's ability to handle Y/N's occasional tantrums. She knew that it took a special kind of patience and understanding to navigate the complexities of Y/N's personality.

As the morning turned into afternoon, Y/N's energy finally began to wane. She plopped down on the couch, her eyelids drooping from the day's excitement.

Tiffany approached her with a gentle smile. 

Tiffany - My beloved, I think it's time for a little rest.

Y/N nodded sleepily. 

Y/N - Okay, Tiffy.

Tiffany helped her girl to her room and tucked her into bed. Y/N yawned and snuggled under the covers. 

Y/N - I love you, Tiffy.

Tiffany's heart swelled with love as she leaned down and kissed Y/N's forehead. 

Tiffany - I love you too, my mischievous little angel.

With Y/N finally asleep, Tiffany joined the other TWICE members in the living room.

As evening approached, Tiffany and Y/N decided to go for a walk together, just the two of them. The city was bathed in the soft, warm glow of streetlights, creating a romantic ambience.

They strolled hand in hand, the night air filled with the gentle sounds of their laughter and whispered conversations. They paused by a panoramic fountain, its waters shimmering in the soft light. It was the perfect moment for a romantic gesture.

Tiffany turned to Y/N, her eyes filled with affection. 

Tiffany - Babe, you are the most amazing person in my life, and I cherish every moment we spend together.

Y/N smiled, her heart fluttering. (Same girl-)

Y/N - Tiffy, I feel the same way. You make every day brighter.

With that, Tiffany leaned in, and their lips met in a sweet, tender kiss. It was a kiss filled with love and promise, sealing their bond even further.

As they pulled away, Y/N rested her head on Tiffany's shoulder, sighing contentedly. 

Y/N - I love you more than words can say, Tiffy.

Tiffany held Y/N close, their fingers intertwined. 

Tiffany - And I love you more than the stars in the sky, Y/N.

Under the moonlit sky, they continued their walk, knowing that their love was a beautiful journey they would treasure forever. 

And this made both have the same thought:

I love my life with my dear chosen family.

A/N: I'm sorry for any errors, English is not my first language. Pls, let me know if there is something wrong, ty for reading <3

[purplesurveys]

1861

What was the last bad thing that happened to your phone? Not really bad per se, but getting a notice in the middle of filming something that I had no storage left. I'm a hoarder through and through, so even though I have files backed up and even have Google Drives to store my photos in, I like keeping most things on my phone and I'm very familiar with running out of space haha.

What are your plans for tomorrow? We have an all-day team building thing. The company even booked a hotel for us overnight, so I'm here in my room right now while taking this.

Have you ever been with someone while they were throwing up? I honestly can't remember if that's happened. I'm usually the one they accompany lol...

What kind of outfit are you wearing right now? Sweatshirt + sweatpants. I'm savoring this moment now because I'm in a hotel and the aircon is freezing and this will never ever happen anywhere else this time of the year lmao.

Would you go out in public right this moment? I am technically in public right now.

Who was the last person you talked to on instant messenger? My sister. I was asking for photos of the dogs earlier because I was missing them.

Have you ever done something illegal with a family member? What about with your best friend? Hmm. Probably.

Would you rather get high or get drunk? Drunk.

Would you rather get pregnant at too young an age or never be able to reproduce? I don't want kids, so.

What was the last thing you cooked? Can it be the last thing I reheated instead because I don't cook? Hahaha. Spaghetti from Jollibee.

What were you doing 45 min ago? Playing Rhythm Hive.

What will you be doing in 20 min? Changing into my sleeping clothes for tonight.

What did you do yesterday? Worked, played my game, and for like three straight hours I watched videos from this local vlogger that I really really like. I actually already started watching his stuff months ago, but then he disappeared from my algorithm never to come back. I suddenly remembered him yesterday so I looked him up and saw that he had been posting new videos the whole time, so last night was dedicated to catching up.

Did you get a full 8 hours of sleep last night? Nah. Never on weekdays as I do revenge bedtime procrastination.

Have you ever gotten alcohol poisoning? I would never drink that much in one go to be at risk of alcohol poisoning.

Are you in a good mood right now? I'm feeling pretty damn great lmao. I'm in a hotel, I'm taking surveys, I have a plate of macarons beside me, I don't need to worry about work tomorrow since we'll be team building-ing...it's all lovely.

What’s the hardest thing you have done all week? Get through a meeting with a difficult client. He's so negative, never once seemed grateful, gave very strong know-it-all vibes, even his own teammates were on edge around him...I never thought a meeting could be so soul-sucking until that happened, and I honestly wish the deal would fall through or that the event we are planning for them gets cancelled. Not worth it.

How did you feel when you woke up today? LOLfuckit's9:30andIoversleptwhydidIoversleep

Do you want to see someone at this very moment? No.

Think of the person who has hurt you the most in the past year, who is it? My mom.

Do you think two people can last forever? Sure.

Do you find it in your heart to forgive? No.

Last person you talked to on the phone for longer than 5 min? Idk, that doesn't really happen a lot. Maybe with my dad? it's always more a call between him and my mom, though. We kids just chime in from time to time to greet him and such.

Are you a morning person or night person? Night.

Did you go out or stay in last night? It was a Tuesday evening, you best believe I stayed in haha.

Who was the last person in your bedroom? My sister, if I remember right.

Are you afraid to tell your true feelings? Doesn't it always depend on the situation? I'd feel more hesitant if I'm not around people I'm super close with.

Can you honestly say you’re okay right now? Sure.

How has this past week been for you? Nothing out of the ordinary.

Do you currently have a hickey? No.

Did you ever lose a best friend? Yes, I have.

How many piercings do you have? Just two, but I never have anything on them anymore.

Do you bump into someone’s arm if you want to hold their hand? No...

Are you listening to music, if so, what song? Continued from last night. Nope.

Favorite part of summer? My birthday.

Where was your default picture taken? A museum in Makati.

What is your middle name? Eh...

What color underwear are you wearing? Beige.

What color shirt are you wearing? Orange.

Ever had a near death experience? Not really.

Have you ever kissed in the rain? I don't know. Probably?

What is your natural hair color? Black.

Could you handle living with the last boy you texted? No, I barely know them.

What are you excited for? Seeing my dad again, traveling to Vietnam, and getting the notification for Jin's first live back.

Have you been to the beach this year? Yes, twice – both related to work but it's fine haha. The first time was at a TVC shoot that needed to be set at the beach; The second was our team bonding day where Leah invited us all to her beachside house.

What makes you happy? My dogs, day offs, and BTS.

Anything happen to you within the past month that made you really happy? Sure. My birthday happened and my birthday is always one of my favorite days of the year; that's one.

Could you go the rest of your life without smoking weed? Yes.

Held hands with anyone in the past month? I don't think I have. I've linked arms with my grandma since she needs help walking now, but we haven't held hands.

Would you put your life on the line for anyone? Yes.

When’s the last time you did something you knew was wrong? Three seconds ago, lol.

Do you think that someone is thinking about you right now? Doubt it.

Are there any bruises/cuts on your body? No but there is this very uncomfortable knot(?) on the right side of the back of my neck right now that is preventing me from bending my head to the right.

How late did you stay up last night? 2 AM, as usual.

Do you want someone to call you right now? Not really.

Are you a loud person? With the right people, I can be.

Are you a shy person? For the most part.

Does it take a lot to make you cry? No. I was crying uncontrollably the other night over BTS videos.

If your parents didn’t like the person you were dating, would you lose them? Depends on the person, I'm guessing. With my last ex, I imagine I would have fought for it. Hard to imagine with anyone else since I've never dated since then.

How’s your heart lately? Steadily working its way towards peace.

How was Saturday night? Pretty uneventful. I dyed my hair and stayed in.

Will you be in a relationship in 4 months? No.

Are you tan? Yes.

Do you think you can last in a relationship for 3 months? I did. Nearly 20 times that length.

Think a lot before you fall asleep? Sometimes.

[raytorosaurus]

Hello! I’m going to one of the MCR shows in Brisbane and i was wondering if you could give me some info on the venue/etiquette over there (I’m from Puerto Rico). Do you know if they’ll do the wristband system for GA or if you’ll have to queue all day? Are pits particularly rowdy or anything like that? I’m so excited to go to Australia for the first time! Any tips on what to do/eat would also be welcomed 😅 thanks!

heyy!! sorry this took a while for me to get to, i wanted to give you a decent answer. first of all, that's really exciting that you're coming from pr!!!! hope you enjoy your trip <333

okay so you didn't specifically ask this but just as a general heads up because i worry about it - one thing for i know for sure is that overnight camping at this venue is strictly prohibited. it's also not actually possible at all, because the venue is in a large gated-off area that's locked at night and borders/is surrounded by swampy wilderness lol. so as a heads up to anyone attending the brisbane show, please please do not camp overnight it's not only illegal but very unsafe. you'll also literally be eaten alive by bugs lol it's a huge mosquito breeding ground. i promise you'll regret it lmaooo.

okay the rest of the answer is under a cut bc it got rambly lol sorry. but if anyone else is travelling to brisvegas 🤘🤘 for the show/s, here's a little crash course for you if you want lol

so to answer your original question, i highly doubt there'll be any kind of wristband system organised by the venue tbh, i've just never heard about a precedent for that here (though i haven't been to this particular venue since before covid so i guess i could be wrong). their website says you can queue "outside the turnstiles" on the day, so i think it'll just be down to who shows up tbh! also as a reminder, the venue is kind of out of the way and there isn't much in the way of food/water nearby to purchase so if you do do that, come prepared! and bring plenty of sunscreen and probably insect repellent. remember it will almost definitely still be quite hot in march down here. i'm not really expecting a very serious queue myself - i'm thinking there'll be maybe a dozen or two dedicated people who show up in the morning at most, and the rest won't show up until maybe a few hours in advance. i could be wrong though!! i'm personally not planning on getting up really early, i'd rather be rested for the show. maybe late morning? who knows i might change my mind

it's also not exactly the easiest venue to get to by public transport lol, your best bet is the nearby train station (boondall station). but on the plus side it's close to the airport!

as for pit rowdiness, it's really hard to say, i reckon it just varies from show to show. i'm honestly really curious myself as to what the crowds will be like because from what i can tell mcr aren't really as popular over here in general as they are in america/the uk (not so sure about europe). i already know a couple of people who are going who don't actually know much of their music they were just like oh huh mcr, i remember them LOL. for reference there are two shows in each city, one that was announced in 2019 and one that was added the second or third time they rescheduled, and in every city that second show still hasn't sold out. so i don't thiiiink the pit will be very rowdy at these particular shows, no. but same as always - if you're worried, just avoid standing front and centre!

as for what to do/eat - now this really depends on where you're staying and how long you're staying for! the best place for that kind of stuff is obvs around the centre of brisbane, whereas the mcr venue, like i said, is pretty close to the airport. if you want to really see brisbane and eat out in nicer restaurants/bars, southbank (most tourist-friendly place, accessible and genuinely nice to wander around along the river), the fortitude valley (which is also the nightlife district and chinatown), and west end (pretty heavily gentrified 'hip' youth area - lots of vegan food and brunch places, farmer's markets and the like) are probably your best bets, though not the cheapest. brisbane does actually have a good foodie culture so there's plenty around - it's hard to go wrong with asian food here thanks to australia's pretty high asian population! if your budget is smaller than that - dude trust me. go to any brumby's bakery or to any pie face and get a proper meat pie. and a lamington while you're at it.

if your stay is short and you just want to find cheaper accommodation close to the airport, honestly the aforementioned swampy wilderness that the entertainment centre is in is part of a national park (boondall wetlands environment centre) that's quite nice to walk around if you're into that kind of thing! it's a mangrove system which is a really fascinating ecosystem if you haven't seen them (though i think pr has plenty lol), lots of native birds and shit. the nearby suburbs of sandgate and shorncliffe are a great place for some classic fish and chips and to walk along/sit by the water (though don't get excited, they're not a 'real' aussie beach, it's a sheltered bay so the water is flat and the sand is brown).

depending how long you're staying and whether you'll have a car, there are lots of very beautiful "real" beaches surrounding brisbane an hour or two in either direction - the gold coast to the south is for the touristy ones (good if you like shopping/nightlife, more accessible by public transport), and the sunshine coast to the north is quieter and prettier. there's also lots of nice hiking trails around if you're into that but you would need a car.

anyway. sorry this is long, i hope i answered your question!! you're welcome to dm me if you want specific clarification on anything :)))

[nancypullen]

Don't Look For My Obituary

I'm not dead, I've just been consumed with making inventory for the upcoming artisan's market. Why did I decide to do this with so little time to prepare? And how do other women make a living at this? Who does their laundry, shops for groceries, cooks the meals, and cleans their homes? Every time I get into a creative groove and have my little system down, I have to drop everything for a domestic chore. I guess what I should be doing is daytime chores and nightly art making. I tend to shut it all down after cleaning up after dinner. By 7pm I don't want to do anything else. Anyyyyyway, that was my bonkers way of saying that I've been AWOL from the ol' blog because I've been in panic mode while cranking out earrings and cards. The earrings are so time consuming. I actually plan to prep some clay this afternoon for a pattern I really like - it involves a solid color of clay, acrylic paint, and some gold flake. Once it's blended and rolled into a log for slicing, it has to sit overnight. If I try to work with it without giving the paint time to completely dry it smears and ruins the whole batch (speaking from experience). Once it's dry I can slice it and roll it into a sheet for cutting. Then it has to be baked, drilled, topped with acrylic, and finally pieced together. The end result is worth it, but it's kind of a pain. BUT....with the exception of that little batch (that I don't really have to do), I'm just making a few extra cards. The cards are really fun for me. No mess, no big time commitment, and they make me giggle.

The glue is currently drying on those buttons , then I'll tidy up any extra ribbon or lace - snip, snip! I've done about fifteen different cards, with duplicates of each. Honestly, I may be wasting my time - does anyone buy cards anymore? I don't even know what to charge. Three dollars? Two? Here's a dry run with our booth colors, we'll have a second shorter table to make an L shape.

And I even have a Facebook page! I've only told a handful of people about this page, so here goes nothing!

So, there it is, the reason I have been incommunicado. I'm doing my best to do something I've never done before. I'm not sure I'm good at this. I'm not great at promoting myself and I really don't want to stand at a booth and watch my creations get rejected again and again. I'd much rather some wonderful boutique owner stop and say, "I love it all! I want it for my shop!" and I could just supply my silly goods to local businesses. I probably have a better chance of winning the lottery, so I'll be at my pink and orange booth on Saturday pretending that I'm fiiiiine with no one liking my items.

I should probably bring some emotional support brownies. I'm heading to my desk to make more cards, so if I owe you an email or a phone call, you have my most sincere and heartfelt apology. I swear I'll be back to (ab)normal after Saturday. Until then, please rub some beads, light a candle, ask the goddesses to show mercy on my crazy soul. I need all the help I can get. Sending out loads of love. Stay safe, stay well. XOXO, Nancy

[summerspice222]

Something Royal Blue: a Selection story ch 1 (read on wattled for more)

My family had been financially unstable for as long as I could remember. But, when we got the Selection letter from the palace, they assumed that we could coast our way through our problems and I could find love at the same time. 

We weren't surviving off of three meals a day like some families in Whites were, we would occasionally skip a dinner or two a week just to save extra money for taxes, bills, and whatnot. That's all I'd known since I was four or five years old when the caste systems had been disassembled. I didn't know what life was like all over the country, but it was even more difficult to feel equal with everyone in Whites. Not many people easily adjusted to "equality" that was bestowed among us. Former Two's would refuse to pay their taxes, they complained that the tax rate was too high. While former Sixes were struggling to keep the heat on during the coldest months. 

Mom says that the disassembling of the castes was needed with the dangerous rebellion against the royal family. But honestly, I'm not sure much changed. Queen America's work of disassembling the castes was, and still is, heavily applauded by many people. But there are still outbursts and riots in the streets. People saying that the next step to equality is to take down the monarchy.

Mom says that the rebellion is starting again, but this time no one wants to maim or distract the crown. They only want to hurt it.

"Those vigilantes had almost killed King Maxon." My mother would curse whenever we'd hear about the 'new rebellion'. She would shake her head and say "Somehow, the lack of the caste system convinces the people of Illea that there is still a social hierarchy. Those former twos need to get up to date with the times."

These days, Five's weren't confined to artistry and Three's weren't confined to education. Everyone in the country got to choose their profession by the time they turned 18, but we were all taxed at the same rate. Leaving the poor and starving even more poor and starving, and allowing the wealthier families to add a 'tax day' to their calendars. 

Unfortunately for me, my family stuck with the inherited jewelry business. According to dad, sticking with the business our family passed down for generations helped us "stick to our roots". This earned us substantial amounts of money, along with occasional commissions from high paying customers. Since Whites is always packed with snow, I trained skiers on the side for some extra money to bring home.

But when dad got sick, we started drowning in hospital bills and treatment plans. To overnight hospital stays and radiation therapy. The doctors sucked up thousands of dollars from my family, all pooled into an empty drain. Nothing could fix how sick dad was.

When we got the letter, my mom shoved it in my hands and sternly suggested that I should fill it out. Even Amber, my older sister, knew that mom really meant that I had to fill it out or I she'd loathe me for the months to come. 

My mom and I don't agree on much, but strangely I agreed with her about the Selection. I believed that signing up for it would help our current financial problems and save us from having to sell our house. But, my family doesn't realize that I do have standards, I'm not willingly going to throw myself onto a prince with 31 other girls. 

Though I had never met him, Prince Kaden had the tendency to come off as proper and uninteresting. Every week when my family sat and watched The Report, my older sister Amber liked to note that, "he looks like he's sitting with a stick up his ass". 

In my head, there are many pro's and con's to even entering the Selection. Con, I don't want to attempt fall in love with someone I don't know and presents himself as bland as toast. Con, I can't ski in Angeles (not that it really mattered, but it was needed on the list). Con, there was no way I'd make it past the first week in the palace. I tend to make a mess no matter where I end up. Pro, the palace gave money to your family once a week if you were selected. Pro, I could help pull my family up with me. I took that as my only positive spin on this whole situation. 

The thought of the Selection just made my head spin. Why would the royal family let 32 girls, who are just regular citizens and total strangers, stay in their home. Let alone watch their son and brother date 32 girls all at once. 

Many of the girls in Whites adored the prince and had been hoping for years that he'd hold a Selection. I'd always overhear the "prince chatter" while I was on the slopes. My coworkers would often drop Prince Kaden's name into conversation when they were debriefing The Report. From my perspective, it seemed that all of the women of Whites would give their lives to be in the presence of a royal. 

I denied that Prince Kaden would even have a Selection. He was second in line for the throne, after his sister, Queen Eadlyn. The Queen had been married for about 5 years now and I thought it was odd that Queen Eadlyn and King Erik hadn't produced an heir yet. Not that I was waiting for them to, but any child of theirs would be able to assume the throne.

I hid in my room when I heard that other girls were receiving their letters. It was one of my anxiety habits, whenever a problem occurred in my life, I'd tuck myself away until the problem was gone. Or at least I tried to.

I sat at my desk, which was positioned in front of my bedroom window. A cold draft blew into my room due to the lack of insolation in the house. I didn't care though, I just loved the view from it. I could see the buildings of the small village I lived in, the square, the mountain lodge, into the frosty tundra that I called home. 

Whites was beautiful and just like the province's name suggested, it was very, very environmentally white. On a good year, it snowed 263 days out of the 365 days in a year. The fishing families ended up ice-fishing in the winter months and, thankfully, ski coaches were employed all year round.

I tapped a pen against my design pad. A high paying customer was expecting mock-ups of an engagement ring by the end of the week, they'd offered me over 200 Illean dollars to get the design finished within a week. 

As I finished sketching the ring, I heard footsteps approach my door. I was good at listening to the shuffling that occurred within my household. It was cozy enough to hear conversations echo in rooms, to hear doors open and close, and it gave no member of my family the perfect amount of privacy anywhere. If there was a secret to tell, there would be a high chance that my family already knew about it. 

Amber knocked on my door the way she always did, with three brief musical taps. "Maddisyn! I know you're hauling yourself up in your room to avoid it'' 

My sister knew all of my tendencies. She especially paid attention to the negative ones, like avoiding my problems and consuming myself in my work. I'm not completely sure she saw any good tendencies in me. 

Sighing, I stood up from my desk and walked over to the door. For all my life, Amber was never one to let herself into a room unless she knocked. I always ask why she doesn't just walk in, we're family after all. She claimed that she always knocks because it's polite. However, I assume it's because she's still traumatized from walking in on her twin, Asher, having sex when they were just teenagers. 

I spun my chair to look over at Amber. "What am I avoiding?"

"Your letter," Amber rolled her eyes and pointed to the thick envelope resting on my bed. "It's been sitting there for three days Maddi"

"Wow...has it really been that long because I swore I just got it-" 

"I already have mine filled out. I finished it last night" Amber wore a wide smile. She was 20, two years older than me. If she was a year older, she would be unable to participate in the Selection. For her, signing up would mean she saw the Selection as a way to escape the jewelry store and possibly start over. Knowing my sister, of course she'd hop on the first opportunity to rearrange her life. 

"Amber," I grumbled. "I'm waiting until mom gets home to open my letter, I've told you this multiple times" 

My sister's smile turned to a smirk. "It must be that time of month for you Maddi. Hopefully the prince can handle your bitchy attitudes. If you even get Selected, that is." Amber turned on her heel and practically skipped to her room to rinse a day in the design studio off of her. 

I stared at my letter once again, it had been sitting there for days. Even though Amber had already opened hers, I wanted to know if mine was any different. The white envelope had blue floral designs around the perimeter. My name was printed in neat calligraphy: Maddisyn Dean. I traced the embedded pattern with my finger. The palace must've sent out thousands, possibly millions, of these all around Illea. Any woman ages 16-20 was eligible to be chosen for the Selection. The calligraphers probably had to prepare months in advance just to get each letter sent out in time.

Mom got home from a last minute meeting with a client who decided she wanted a commissioned necklace as soon as possible. I heard the front door close just around 6:30. In my opinion it was perfect timing, Amber kept going on and on listing reasons why I should sign my letter. Most of her reasons were because she signed her letter. 

Her constant nagging made me question whether or not I should just tell her that the prince wasn't her type at all and even if she was selected, she can't have any of her sexual fantasies come true over the duration of the Selection due to the no sexual interactions rule (which I completely made up to get her off my ass). 

"Girls!" My mom hollered as she set down her purse filled to the brim with sketch pads, pens, beads, and pliers. Her dark brown hair was streaked with gray from her age, but she still looked as lively and young as ever. 

All of my siblings looked like my mom, dark brown hair, bright blue eyes, a sharp nose, and a 'fragile figure like a porcelain doll' as grandma liked to call it. But unlike the rest of us, I had a freckled face like dad had. I always was complemented on my looks, but living with four other people who look like you doesn't really make you feel that special. 

Both mom and I were never considered tall, Amber and Ashton got their height from dad. Ashton is Amber's twin brother. They're both two years older than me, but unlike Amber, Ashton was always dating girls. After dad had passed away, Ashton just couldn't wait to get married to the "love of his life" only four months after they had met. He moved across the country to Carolina just days after he got married. I guess we all had different ways of coping with dad's death. 

We sat down for dinner and that's when all the Selection, princess, and money commotion started. Mom had set down dinner, a small salad and pasta, and she walked right over to her seat. I glanced at Amber as she leaned back in her chair and she smiling at me deviously.

"Mom," Amber started, pouting. "Maddi got her letter and she won't open it." 

Unbothered by Amber's comment, mom dished out salad onto her plate, "Now, Amber, don't you think that it's Maddisyn's decision whether or not she opens her letter?" Mom and Amber both turned their heads to me, smiling innocently. Their stares silently willed me to intervene in their conversation. 

I waved my fork between the two of them. "Listen you two, I don't have to open the letter just because I have it. I have a choice of joining, you know."

"But-" Amber started.

Mom grabbed Amber's hand, "No, Maddisyn is right honey. She doesn't have to open the letter if she doesn't want to." 

I wish I could say that we ate the rest of dinner in peace, talking about our new clients and the pieces from the wholesaler that had recently arrived at our store. But, dinner continued on silently. Eventually, both mom and Amber's eyes ended up on me again, staring into the depths of my soul. They both knew that by silently pressuring me to open my letter I'd do it, my curiosity always got the best of me. 

I let out a long sigh. "It's in my room. Give me until the end of the week, at least. I just need time to think about all of this." I stood up from the table and cleaned off my plate. The thought of the letter was imprinted in my brain now. I told my sister and mom "goodnight" and practically ran up the stairs to my room, eager to open my letter.

I opened the envelope slowly, my anticipation rose. I think I was secretly hoping that the letter would say, 'Congratulations, you made it in! you're selected to move away from home and cat fight with 31 other girls!' or 'Sorry, unable to proceed in the process because you don't like the prince'. 

But to my dismay, it didn't have any definite yes or no answer. I slid out the letter and unfolded it. The paper was nice, thick, it felt hand-made like the craft paper the shop next to us sold. I quickly scanned the letter, hoping my eye would catch on anything that spoke about giving up your spot or what happens if you're chosen and you want to give up your spot. It did not. So I read it over once more. 

The gossip around Whites was true, for once. The letter did note that I would be given a 'generous compensation' for every week I stayed at the palace. I'd be fed three meals a day plus, tea and snacks would be provided at our convenience. I'd be dressed accordingly to the style at the palace, be in the safest hands of the country, and possibly meet the world's greatest diplomats (and possibly my husband). At least I wouldn't have to worry about starving and I definitely wouldn't have to worry about my family starving if we were paid extra.  

We weren't making thousands of dollars each month in the jewelry industry, so an extra boost of money for my family would keep me sane. But, did I really want to get forced into a relationship with a guy I had never met? Not necessarily. I mean if I signed the form I could be picked and I could help my family pay back bills and pay taxes. Then I would also get to live at the palace, with all of the dresses and glamor. I would get to live safely and get to date a prince. I guess that sounds nice. But there'd be 32 girls out of the whole country of Illèa being picked to compete for love, I wasn't necessarily one to gravitate towards girl drama. 

Three soft taps landed on my window. I snapped out of my circle of overthinking and peeked outside. Violet stood outside in jeans, a heavy wool sweater, her warmest boots, and a heavy jacket. I was still in my clothes from work. Quickly, I changed into something a little bit more comfortable and rushed downstairs to let there in. For years, Violet would meet at my house to talk about the shops, any new guys we saw, and we'd often debate the fresh snow and whether or not it was good enough to ski. Violet and I sat on my floor, sprawled out on a soft blanket. Violet sat next to me and took off her boots. 

"So, I'm guessing you want to talk about it?" I asked. 

Violet laughed. "That's exactly why I came, to talk about doing it. I have my prospects lined up, there's James from the ski team, Ian from the library, and Alexander."

"Vi I didn't mean sex. I meant the letter" 

"And you're signing it right?" Violet asked hopefully glancing at me. Looking at my expression, her smile dropped and she asked again, "You're signing it, right Maddisyn?" 

"Well-" I started.

"You're not signing?" she said, frustrated.

"Don't you think that it's just a little weird that Illea is hand-picking 32 girls to fall in love with the prince in front of the whole country?" I asked Violet. She just absently blinked at me like I'd just said the stupidest thing ever.

"No, it's not that weird. You overthink too much Maddisyn. It's an opportunity for Prince Kaden to find a bride and it's also an opportunity for the country to get to know their possible future ruler better. And yes, I guess there's the falling in love part too" Violet stated tossing a braid over her shoulder.

I let out a long sigh, "You know, you somehow always have a way of being right."

"So, it's a maybe then?" Violet asked, still hopeful. We sat in silence for a few seconds. My mind swirled around the obviously valid points Violet had just made. 

After minutes of silence, Violet cleared her throat. "Anyway, let's talk about Adrianna's new competition...Bakery 47 just opened down the road and I've heard that their muffins taste way better than her family bakery. I also heard that Sabina is sleeping with Luke, the baker's son and she says that he's four inches on a good day..." 

We burst out laughing and started talking about my new clients and commissions and her new studies and occasionally, the students we'd been training recently. Sometimes Violet would stay over and we'd go to the slopes in the mornings. But she chose her career to be in education. She had become a new teacher assistant at a university, so she had to make sure she had a good schedule. I tightly hugged Violet, hoping that she'd stay warm in the bitterness of the night..

"Maddi, please let me know when you fill out the form. I know you want to and I want to send ours in together." Violet whispered. I nodded my head in agreement. 

After Violet left, I laid in bed staring at my ceiling. Of course she knows I want to fill it out. Of course my mom would pressure me to fill it out, then we'd have double the chances of getting in. The idea of turning on my light and starting on the form now tugged at my brain until my eyes shut. 

The next morning, I woke up with a mission, to make my decision. Amber and Violet had made theirs so easily and I was so torn. In the back of my mind I thought Did I really want to stay in Whites forever? No.

As it turns out, I wasn't the only one who wanted me to make my decision so quickly. When I came downstairs for breakfast, mom had already made me a nice breakfast, coffee and some oatmeal. Great, I thought now she really wants something from me. Right next to my place at the table, not so subtly, was the Selection form. 

"Mom, how did you-" I sighed "I had that in my room, I was reading through it last night and I have a list of all of the possible things that could go wrong if I signed the form. And I think that-" 

"You think that the pros definitely outweigh the cons?" My mother interrupted me, sliding the bowl of sugar next to the mug of coffee she had poured for me. "I saw your list, you need to stop overthinking sweetie." I knew my mom was right, besides I really wanted to get the whole Selection shenanigans out of the way. 

Ever since I could remember, every Friday we'd watchThe Report. Every Friday, Prince Kaden would be seated alongside his family and every Friday, Amber would comment on and on that she hopes that Prince Kaden never finds a princess from a foreign country to marry so he would just have to hold a Selection so we could have the opportunity to be in it. Amber frequently noted that the prince and I would make a good couple. 

Since last night I'd been thinking about what Violet had said to me. Even though it wasn't much, my best friend was signing the form and I guess it wouldn't hurt to have a shot too. I mean, what were the chances that one of us would get picked? One in a thousand?

I turned to my mom and saw the hopeful look on her face. "Ok, I'll sign the form. But, I can't promise that the prince will fall in love with me" 

"Sweetie, just promise me that you'll at least try. For us and for you. You do have our amazing genes with your fathers charm and my wit, who couldn't resist?"

I laughed, "I promise that I'll try mom. But seducing isn't really in my playbook." 

Obviously my mother was happy with the fact that she didn't have to push me any harder to get me to sign that form. Smiling, she left me in peace to eat. I barely got a second to myself before Amber burst in interrogating me about the form.

"Mads, is it true that you're actually gonna fill the form out? Oh, my little duckie is signing the form!" Amber tugged at the ends of my hair and laughed happily to the kitchen for her breakfast. 

I honestly didn't think that she knew if I entered, only one of us could get chosen. Even if she did, I don't think she cared. 

After finishing breakfast, I walked to my room to get dressed for my day. I wanted to feel my best before signing away my future to the palace. Thankfully, I wasn't working today so I could wear something a little more comfortable and suitable to the harsh cold of Whites. 

My closet was filled with knit sweaters, jeans, cardigans, heavy down jackets, thermal layers, and many pairs of boots. Knowing that I didn't have to put on my slacks and airy blouse for work today, I felt a sense of relief and warmth. I'd choose sweating over freezing any time of the year. 

I chose my favorite sweater, which once belonged to my dad. I was too small for it to fit properly, so it hung loosely on me. But I still loved it, the gray knit material was worn at the ends of the sleeves and holes appeared where I had pulled loose threads. But best of all, it still smelled like dad with his pine scent from strolling through the trees, the cleaning spray that he'd use for cleaning gems, and the new pastels he would by for his sketches. 

Lying on the table in the kitchen was my form, in the same spot that it had been when I woke up. I picked up a pen that was lying on the counter and I stared at the form as if it was written in a  foreign language. It practically was, it contained amounts of money I had never even imagined acquiring in my lifetime, the promise of safety, and the possibility of love. I pulled out a chair at the table and heavily sat down hoping that my family would realize that they were about to miss the moment that they pushed so hard to get.

I stopped ogling at the thing and started reading the it. I was asked to fill out basic questions such as my birth name, birth date, height, weight, eye color, and hair color. After I finished the first section of the letter, I noticed the questions became more detailed. It asked me what languages I spoke- other than English of course- any hobbies I had, jobs that I worked, amount of siblings I have, how many people I lived with, and highest year of schooling. 

When I was younger my mom homeschooled me. She made me choose two languages to learn 'for the benefit of myself and my future'. I chose to learn French and Italian. When I first started at the jeweler, we acquired a few Swendish clients. Overtime I slowly picked up Swendish, but I could only really comprehend it when it was spoken to me. Amber said that comprehension at any level counted on the form. So I scribbled down all three of the languages.

Fifteen minutes passed before my mom asked me anything about the letter. She just sat in front of me and watched me write, slowly sipping a cup of tea. I appreciated her patience, normally she would've been bouncing up and down behind me making sure I was wording everything right.

"Well, what does it ask Maddisyn?" my mom leaned over the table to see the questions, and read my answers to them.

I started to list off the questions I had already answered so I could just finish filling out the form. Mom seemed very appalled by the fact that they asked for my weight and wondered out loud if the palace was discriminatory against a certain weight. 

"Mom," I nudged her away from me. "Breathe, I think it's just for dresses or something. Anyways they asked for eye color and hair color. Um, it is also asking how many languages I speak." I looked up at her wondering what her response would be to that question.

"Well they better pick you because you speak three languages! Remember, all that matters is comprehension" my mother smiled, finding herself amused with the questions that I had to fill out. 

    "Didn't you fill out the form with Amber, mom?" I asked, slightly annoyed that she was hovering. 

    "Yes. But some of your questions are different than Amber's. Like the hobbies and free-time one. Amber was asked if she had ever been in a relationship. Which I don't see on your form..." mom stated matter-of-factly.

"Why don't you go make me a cup of tea?" I said, filling out the question asking what my current hobbies were. This question was kind of easy, I could write down drawing. I had to sketch new designs every day fo the shop. I also wrote down baking and reading, as well as skiing and photography. I was slightly tempted to write down something off-putting so they had no chance but to eliminate me from the pool. But mom would have a field day if I misbehaved.

I looked around the room, taking in this moment and trying to ground myself. I wondered what dad would say if he were here. He would probably comment something like I should add sleeping to my hobby list. Or for my languages list I should write sarcasm and talking back. I smiled just at the thought of him. I took a deep breath and signed my legal name at the bottom of the page. 

Amber had already gone with her friends to turn in her form, mom and I went down to the Whites Postal Services to turn in the letter later that morning. It was a quick three minute walk from our house and walking in the crisp fresh air always helped calm my nerves. Mom wanted to take the bus, but I made her bundle up in a jacket and scarf. 

"We need to make a stop on the way." I told mom, hoping she wouldn't complain.

"Violet's place I'm guessing?" she nudged me. I nodded silently as we made the detour to Violet's.

~

When the three of us got to the Postal Services, there was a long line of girls who were wearing lots of makeup with their hair in loose curls. Their nicest blouses or sweaters- despite the cold weather and snow. I was still wearing my outfit from this morning, I just added Ashton's old wool coat he left behind before he moved away. I didn't feel the need to dress up to turn in a form. 

I had no idea what I was getting myself into here, did I? I wondered to myself. 

My hair was in loose braids, like it always was. I didn't have work today, so I had nothing on my face except for a sheer amount of lotion. Compared to the other girls I definitely looked more fresh-faced and natural. Normally, I only wore makeup to events for our clientele. On a daily basis I tended not to go all out. 

"9 years in the making Maddi and I'm so glad you and I are together to do this." Violet beamed.

We'd been friends since she came up to me on my first day working at the shop, I was just about ten years old. She told me that my name was spelled weird and I told her that she wasn't one to judge because she was named after a color. I always had a hard time making friends, but Violet had been there for me for nine years. I was there for all of her boy problems and breakups and she was there for me throughout all of my dad's hospital stays and when the doctor told us that he had died. Violet always claimed that she was my escape from the "real world".

"Maddi, look at that girl!" Violet whispered to me and nodded towards to a girl wearing a very low cut, lacy, and strapless top with tight pants. She was wearing so much makeup it made me wonder what she looked like without it. She was visibly shivering, rubbing her hands together as her mother paraded beside her, walking with her head held high as if she was saying "the future princess has arrived, step aside". All I could think was how cold I'd be if I was wearing close to nothing in below freezing weather.

"Well, obviously this can't just be a lottery." Violet commented, scanning the crowd of girls. We both looked back in the line, slightly disappointed knowing that the chances of getting chosen wasn't by luck. There was a girl still in her stained work shirt and name tag, I didn't know if she was going to go back home and change or not. 

"Vi, what happens if one of us gets picked and the other doesn't?" I looked at my best friend with a sad smile. 

"Mads, if you get picked I'll be so happy for you. I hope that it's that same way for you," I gave her a small nod. "Besides, if anyones getting picked, it's totally gonna be me." She smiled and held her head high. I knew she was joking, well, at least I thought she was. 

I was always comparing myself to Violet. We had similar features: blue eyes, porcelain skin, and gentle manner. But our similarities ended there. She was constantly getting asked out on dates or getting complimented by training teams in the lodge. She was tall, maybe five foot eight or so. In contrast to me, her hair was as blond as anyone's could be. Violet claimed that her hair got blonder the more she spent time outside or on the slopes. Her eyes were a shocking mix of blue and green, like you were staring into tropical waters. Her confidence was always higher than mine was and I always guessed that she used her confidence to make me feel more insecure. 

Once we made it to the booth to turn in the forms, I realized wearing my newer boots might have not been a good idea because my feet had really started to hurt. I felt pity for the girls in heels, questioning their decision making skills in the weather. I let my mind wander for only a slight second before my mom and I were ushered into a new line. I turned in my letter and thought we'd be done when a tall woman with a tight bun approached me and my mom. 

"Follow me," She ushered my mom and I into a brightly lighted room, leaving Violet behind us in the crowd. The room was brightly lit from the sun's reflection off of the snow outside, it was so much warmer than waiting outside in the snow. I glanced around the room noticed that the group of girls was slimmer compared to the lengthy line outside. All of the girls sat in cushioned chairs, obviously waiting for something. Mom asked the Postal Service Officer how long waiting here would take. She responded 'five to ten minutes' in a bored tone. 

I waited very impatiently, I picked at my nails and constantly asked my mom if my hair was in place. I anxiously shifted my weight from foot to foot while I waited for the Postal Service Officer to call my name. 

Mom excitedly grabbed my wrist, "Oh! I almost forgot. I brought this bracelet for you. Your dad got it for you for your birthday but, you know..." Her eyes watered and she took a beep breath letting her thought drift off, "I forgot all about it and I was looking through the closet today and there the box was. Like magic! You dad wanted you to have it before you turned eighteen and I had just been waiting for the right moment. Your birthday wasn't the happiest day this year. But now just seems like the perfect time." She smiled as she handed me the gray box. It was tied with a navy ribbon and a small card was folded neatly underneath it. I carefully untied the satin ribbon, I wanted to keep it as an accessory. I placed the card under the box to read for later, maybe it had something personal in it and I didn't want to risk crying in front of all of the other girls.

"Mom! It's absolutely beautiful." I said. The bracelet was beaded with glass beads in all hues of blue. Dad always envied my bright blue eyes and even in the afterlife, he was there to remind me of them. 

Mom wrapped the bracelet around my wrist twice and clasped it. I nearly started crying, but I couldn't stop smiling. In my father's will, he'd only left me a few of his things, useless things like a notebook with stars all on the cover, it was mostly empty except for the map of Illèa consuming the first two pages. It was marked with a few locations Kent, Carolina, and Yukon- I just guessed that he'd wanted to visit those places before he died. He also left me his watch. I had no personal attachment to that watch and neither did he. My father barely ever wore a watch unless it was a special occasion. I felt that I didn't mean as much to him as meant to me.

"Dean, Maddisyn!" A shrill voice called from the front of the room. My mom and I quickly headed to the front of the room, where the lady with the tight bun stood in front of another door.

"Hi, that's me. Maddisyn Dean." I played with the ends of my hair worriedly, why was I chosen to go to a smaller room? Where was Violet, she should be here too. I started to overthink all of the possibilites of why I was here and I was surrounded by girls I had only met in passing. I didn't lie on my application and I certainly didn't do anything illegal before signing the form. 

"Perfect, we just need a headshot of you to show the palace." The lady rushed me into a room the size of my bathroom at home. It was very hot and lights were plastered all around the small perimeter of the ceiling.

Suddenly, it all made sense to me why there were so many girls dressed up.

Mom ushered me to take off my coat, she didn't want me to look too bulky. After a few seconds I positioned myself towards the camera "I'm ready whenever you are" I told the cameraman.

A group of people quickly surrounded me, immediately taking my braids out and smoothing my hair. They quickly ran a cloth across my skin, blotting at my cheeks. Once my hair was all fixed up, I looked right at the camera and smiled the brightest smile I could. For dad. I thought.

Seconds after my picture was taken, I realized that I had flung myself off the cliff of the Selection. Now, my name was in the pool with thousands of others, just waiting to get picked.

[casspurrjoybell-27]

Claimed by the Beast - Chapter 46

*Warning Adult Content*

The Pigs - Knox

The sun shifts and cuts through the windshield as Knox loosens his grip on the steering wheel, his tanned knuckles contrasting against the black leather.

Old-school rock music blasts through the truck's speakers but the silence from Everett booms even louder.

He's been in a world of his own, staring out the passenger window with a far-off look in his eyes.

There's a lingering regret in the pit of Knox's stomach about the night before when he laid everything out on the table in telling Everett that he didn't want to be his boyfriend only for show but for real.

The lack of a definitive response that followed has since stirred up a well of nerves Knox usually keeps under control.

Was it a mistake for him to tell Everett that?

Was it wrong for him to convince Gary that he can take care of his son when Knox is fully aware that he has more enemies in this world than friends?

Is he kidding himself by trying to establish a relationship with someone so completely his opposite?

The near-death experience he recently suffered had clearly stripped away his caution regarding Everett.

If not for that encounter with Ghost, Knox probably wouldn't have ever voiced those emotions last night.

Maybe some lines aren't meant to be crossed after all.

As they eventually pull into the parking lot of the grocery store, Knox lowers the volume on the radio.

"Going in?" Everett shakes his head without even looking at him, opting to stay in the car.

"Okay..." Knox mutters, frustrated.

He shuts off the engine and removes his seatbelt.

"Want anything from inside?"  

"A bag of chips, please."

"Spicy sweet chili Doritos?"

The correct guess earns him a slight smile from Everett, one that lit up his anxious heart for a moment.

"That's it," Everett says. "Thanks."

"Be back in a second. Call if you need anything else."

Knox carries the small win with him as he shops quickly, moving with purpose up and down the aisles.

He's back outside in under twenty minutes.

The solitary shopping, unfortunately, did nothing to ease the growing knot fixed in his stomach.

He places Josie's items and the dog food in the backseat, then hands Everett his chips.

He receives another whispered thanks before driving off.

And much like when they began this trip home, it's quiet, apart from the sounds coming from the radio.

But eventually, a familiar tune floats through the truck and Everett's voice threads through the notes so smoothly and softly that Knox can't help but perk up.

"Wouldn't be surprised to find out you were a singer in a past life," he compliments with a low chuckle.

"You sound good. No bullshit."

Everett glances at him, shyly.

"I wanted to be a million different things when I was little... a singer was one of them."

"In an industry like that, your image and reputation mean about as much as your music does," Knox says, teasing.

"You think your fans would approve of their idol dating a biker like me?"

"I honestly wouldn't even care about shit like that."

"Really?"

"Really," Everett confirms.

"If I'm that deeply in love with someone, then my profession would just have to adapt because I'm not giving up on my partner. Your soulmate is a forever thing, your career can be gone overnight. Real fans don't view their idol as someone they own. I'd like to think mine would be happy for me."

Just as Knox allows himself to feel a semblance of hope for their relationship, the gas light flickers on, pulling him back to the present moment.

Cursing under his breath, he announces the need for another pit stop.

"I'm usually good about keeping it full."

"Next time we visit my dad, we'll have to take the bike instead," Everett says.

"So there'll be a next time?"

"Maybe."

Knox smirks, rolling his eyes.

"Too late. You already put it out in the atmosphere, so it's going to happen now. I'll make sure of it."

The tension eases between them as they veer off towards the nearest gas station.

It's so busy Knox has to wait at least five minutes before he's able to pull up to a pump.

He shuts the truck off and looks at Everett.

"Pump or pay?" he asks, nodding toward the store.

"We'll get out of here quicker this way."

"I'll pay," Everett says, stretching and yawning.

"Need to grab something to drink to wash these chips down. How much are you wanting to put in?"

"$80."

Knox pulls out of his wallet and hands Everett a hundred-dollar bill.

"You can use the rest."

"Want anything?"

"Just you."

"Ew. You really just said that..." Everett laughs and it's a big laugh, then he leans over the armrest and kisses surprise onto Knox's face.

"Back in a few."

Knox grips him by the chin and kisses him again, deeper.

"Hurry."

"Okay."

Everett stumbles out of the truck and jogs toward the entrance of the store. 

Knox sits back in seat, his eyes watching everyone's move.

Everett's taste is still on his tongue but his smile is long gone.

There are too many people out, too much room for someone to sneak up and catch him off guard.

He keeps his attention split between Everett and his surroundings.

The line inside the store isn't moving fast enough and it adds to his growing anxiety which immediately worsens after a police cruiser pulls up beside the empty gas pump behind Knox's truck... giving them the perfect view of his license plate.

"Fuck."

Knox exhales a heavy breath as he glances back at the store.

He can see Everett's slim silhouette now paused near the back of the line, oblivious to the possible trouble brewing outside.

Fingers that had only moments ago gripped his lover by the chin for a much-needed kiss now hurriedly tap out a message to Gavin on his cell phone.

Knox: At the gas station on Elms Street.

Knox: Pigs are here. Might be trouble if they pick a fight.

Gavin: Copy that. Where's the kid?

Knox's eyes narrow, high on alert and his jaw clenches after hearing a car door slam shut from the cruiser.

He watches through the rear view mirror as one officer begins to use his card at the pump, the other stayed put inside, his eyes glued to a computer screen.  

Knox glances away to look back inside the store.

Everett is now in the middle of the line.

He looks back in the rear view mirror, ice flooding his veins when he spots the cop sitting inside the car muttering something to the driver while pointing at his truck.

Acting on impulse, Knox places a call to Everett.

He picks up on the first ring.

"Hey, I'm almost..."

"Everett, stop talking," Knox speaks low, his voice steady despite the unease brewing inside him.

"Cops are getting gas behind me right now, and I'm positive they just finished running my shit."

Knox's gaze hardens as he checks the rear view mirror again, confirming his suspicions when the seated officer steps out to converse more with his colleague.

Their simultaneous glance in Knox's direction tightens the coil of apprehension in his stomach.

"Oh, God," Everett drops his voice to a whisper.

"W-what do we do?! What do you want me to do? Create a distraction or something?"

"No, just listen to me carefully because I'm running out of time. I need you to stay inside and call Gavin. Tell him to call our lawyer because shit is about to pop off."

The second cop begins to walk Knox's way with a scowl on his chubby face and a hand resting on his gun.

"Knox..."

"I mean it, kitten. Fuck what you see or hear. Do not come out of that store until I'm gone."

Knox ends the call after receiving a hard tap on his window, more a demand than a courtesy.

He tucks his phone away and answers it by opening the door and stepping out, his face an unreadable mask.

The officer speaks.

"Knox Hansley?"

"In the flesh."

Knox's heart beats a steady rhythm of defiance and readiness as he looks down at the tiny man.

"Is there a problem, officer?"

"Yes, actually. Your last known address is to an abandoned lot."

The officer's brow furrows and he takes another step forward.

"Why is that?"

Knox quickly deflects.

"You first. Why does it matter to you folks where I lay my head at night?"

"So we're playing stupid now?"

The officer's hand on his gun twitches, his tone edged with impatience.

"This doesn't have to get ugly if only you cooperate."

"Cooperate for what?" Knox challenges, his stance unyielding.

"You come up in my face threatening me over something you've yet to explain. Do I look like a fucking telepath? Because I ain't one."

"Mind your language, bastard. You know good and damn well why I'm standing here wasting my breath talking to you. It's about a missing person's case."

"I don't know of any missing person."

"The name Hayes Mitchell doesn't ring a bell?"

The name sends a jolt through Knox.

Of course it rings a ring.

It rings several.

He's the reason that traitorous fucker is dead, him and Finn.

But that night isn't one Knox would take back if given the chance for a redo. Fuck Hayes.

The fact that he's still a problem Knox has to resolve even after taking every precaution to cover his and Finn's tracks brings forth an old rage that he thought he had put to rest.

Knox maintains his composure with another smooth lie.

"I don't know any Hayes Mitchell."

"Yeah, well, we have reason to believe otherwise."

"That sounds like a you problem."

"Enough of the smart talk, asshole. How about you come down to the station to have a chat so we can all be on the same page," the officer presses on.

"As I said before, this doesn't have to get ugly if you cooperate."

"This is bullshit. You're harassing me while I'm minding my business trying to fill up my tank..."

Knox's eyes drift over to the store where he finds Everett with his phone pressed to his ear, panic etched on his face.

It's starting to feel like all Knox ever does is cause the boy pain and suffering.

The sweet moments and hot sex from last night suddenly seem like a distant dream.

"You have thirty seconds to make a decision," the officer warns.

He removes his hand off his gun in exchange for the handcuffs.

"Twenty-three now..."

There isn't an easy way out of this, so of course, Knox opts to go down with a fight.

"Fuck you, pig," Knox snarls, hands clenched as he bumps chests with the officer.

"I'm not going anywhere to chat about someone I've never fucking met..."

Within seconds, the officer at the pump shouts and draws his gun while the one in front of Knox sweeps his legs out to bring him down to the ground.

His hands are immediately cuffed but his mouth remains spewing expletives.

"Knox Hansley, you are under arrest for suspicion of involvement in the disappearance of Hayes Mitchell. Anything you say..."

The officer locks the cuffs around Knox's wrists as tight as they'll go, wanting Knox to feel the pain and discomfort.

It takes both officers to pull Knox up from the ground and load him into the back of the cruiser.

"You're lucky we caught you in a public area. Otherwise, that ugly face of yours would've been unrecognizable by the time we got you to the station," the first officer whispers to him before slamming the back door shut.

This would be less infuriating and humiliating if Everett weren't around to see everything unfold.

He's now standing outside blending in with the crowd, his eyes brimming with tears.

Tears yet again caused by Knox.

How many more must the boy shed before enough is enough?

[jasminexbaudelaires]

Jasmine: It depends on if it was embarrassing-horrific or tragic-horrific. If it’s embarrassing, I will try to keep a straight face but probably fail. If it’s tragic, then yeah I think I could.

Jasmine: But if someone just runs down the road screaming “CARRRRL” I will break out laughing.

Jasmine:

Jasmine: Look, I didn’t pay attention to anything after ‘still on the pilot’, okay?! But you’re not a failure. You’re just episodically challenged when you’re alone. 😂 Just let me know when you have free time, and it’s a date! We’ll at LEAST get you to episode 3 or 4. No swearing on those demonic bitches though. I threw one out of the truck window going like 70 when I was younger, and one of the ranch hands went back and got it, cleaned it up, made sure it was still working, and put it on my windowsill so when I went to open the window when I woke up it was just there like

Jasmine:

Jasmine: I don’t know if I’ve seen Train to Buson, but I’d rather have the TWD ones or the ones from Shaun of the Dead. If we end up with the TLOU walkers or World War Z? Nope. I’m dippin’ so fuckin fast.

Jasmine: The ranch does have fence currently, though. Just not the kind to keep walkers out for long; they’re just wooden. Some of them on the border of the property are barbed wire to keep wildlife out, but most of the inner ones are wood. Honestly, as long as the spread of the virus doesn't happen overnight and we don't get overrun, we should be able to put bigger/better/whatever fences together pretty quick. The ranch hands and the rest of our family would be able to get everything set up while the ones who want to stay are moving their families in. Jasmine: I don't know if we're set up for solar or wind energy, but I don't see why we couldn't work on getting that set up once the fences are done. But you are entirely right about relying on the natural wells for water as well as barrels for water. Honestly, if the world goes to shit, you better just come to the ranch because I'm pretty sure we'll need your brain 😂😂 We don't have a bomb shelter on the land, but we do have two storm shelters and a shelter in the basement of the main house so we're at least mildly covered in some sense ha. I mean...not if it's a nuclear fallout, but still lol. Jasmine: Feel free to laugh. I'm sure my death would be embarrassingly hilarious 😂 Jasmine: I love the Last of Us universe, but I'd fucking go crazy if I were thrown into it. I can't imagine coming face to face with a clicker or a bloater and actually walking away. Like nope, byyyyeee.

Matt: Imagine this... Something horrific happens, and the person's name is Carl. Could you keep a straight face after hearing it? Matt: L O O K Matt: I threw 🙈 this at you because I know how fucking terrible that admission was. I'm a failure! Why is it that when you've got things to watch, you keep reverting back to shows you've already seen? Is it a comfort thing? It's gotta be that. I swear on Furby's demonic soul I will get back to it. Matt: yes, I'm still one of those fuckers floating around in a box. Matt: Buuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuut I will SO be down swinging by yours to get at least to the 2nd episode. Matt: I'll admit, I did consider your place, but the lack of a fence caused major hesitation. How long do you think a job like that would take? If anything, you'd have to get started basically tomorrow and hope to Jebus those flesh-eating fuckers aren't moseying around already, ala Night of the Living Dead/Shaun of the Dead style. I'd much rather have them than the speedy Train to Busan zombers. Those were quick-moving, I think. I could be confusing it with the clickers from Last of Us. Matt: The water bottles are great for the short term, but you'd want to rely more on those wells or rig up rain barrels. Solar energy is good, too, and with your property's size, even wind energy could be an option. I spend far too much time thinking up this kind of shit because it comes helpful for any type of situation. Doesn't need to be zombies. But if it's nuclear fallout and you don't have a bomb shelter, then it's lights out anymore. Matt: Oh fuck. I shouldn't have laughed at that, but I did. It would be like one of those embarrassing deaths, too. Something you'd read up on the Darwin Awards. Matt: Yes! So it was the clickers! I know the creators are big fans of the z-word, but I keep thinking of them as that. They do look terrifying and unique compared to the usual brain feasters.

[pacifymebby]

Hi bestie it’s age gap crush anon and I’m here with a little update about how things have been! So overall absolutely wonderful! We’ve been spending a lot of time together and I’ve been staying overnight at his place quite a bit and it’s actually been him asking me to. He’s definitely been making an effort to show that he’s serious about this and he’s not just jerking me around.

Now this is a big one… he asked me to go to his parents for Christmas Eve. I would absolutely love to and I hope I get to but I’m not sure about my family plans. We’ve barely even been back together for two months now and it feels like forever. Do you think it’s moving too quickly? I’m not sure but I’m so nervous that I’ll make a fool out of myself in front of his parents and im clueless on what to get for gifts! Any help is appreciated

Anyways love you lots and I hope you’re having a lovely Christmas season and staying warm!! ❤️🎄

Hi bestie im so so sorry i left this late!!!!

First up, if it isn't too late and u haven't made plans you should take the leap and go for christmas eve with him. Its kinda cute and not too serious but like, will show him youre into all this too and that you're taking it serious.

Honestly its like he's a whole new guy at this point he sounds so different from the age gap crush of summer!!

I think the speed at which a couple moves is entirely a personal choice on their part and how quick they feel they can move. If you feel uncomfortable taking a step, or you get a gut instinct not to take a step then listen to it, but if the thought of going to his for christmas eve fills you with excitement and happiness then do it. Also don't confuse nerves for a gut instinct not to do something, sometimes we feel nervous about things we really want to do.

For their christmas I'd say you don't have to get them something big. I always get B's family a bottle of wine, some chocolates they like. This year I'm going to put together a wee hamper with some wine and some crackers or something for them.

It doesnt have to be fancy just so long as you've tried. Ask him what wine they like and start there lol.

Also in terms of meeting family for the first time, that actually is nerve-wracking. I haven't had to do it for agesss and with B's mam i met her way before me and him were together. But with his grandparents i was nervous because they were kind of way more important haha.

I just got thrown into the deepend as well there, fully dropped in it because they just turned up at his house one day when I was round and started talking to me.

But my general rule is smile, be polite, and try to answer their questions in an open way rather than just saying yes or no. And like, if you are feeling any more confident than that, you can ask them questions. But usually if parents are excited to meet you they will just ask you a million questions and all you have to do is keep smiling and laughing at any jokes haha. Thats how i got through the first meetings.

Now they just sit and take the piss out of B haha.

Anyway, because i havent already said it in this message, i am so so happy that this is going well for you and that you're happy and excited to be back in this relationship. Im so glad he's treating you seriously and not jerking you around this time. He's maybe worked through those issues of the past and is feeling ready to be with you which is amazing. Sometimes these things just take patience <3 try your best to relax into it and enjoy your time with him. It sounds so cute how into one another you are <3

Also merry christmas hope you have a lovely season! <3

[loverrrgirl]

KISMET- Austin Butler x reader - PART 14

Warnings: mentions of having a nightmare. Next chapter is gonna get spicy. So. Minors goooooo away.

Here’s a masterlist

I’ve never done this before so, lemme know what u think! Love uuuu k thanks byeeee

Stella's Point of View

Room 4208. Surely a number I'd remember forever. The little light turned green as he held the keycard up to the door handle. He opened up the door and held his arm out, gesturing for me to go in before him. On one hand, my god, what a gentleman. And on the other hand, good thing there were no serial killers waiting for us in there or they would have gotten to me first.

I heard the door click behind me. I felt so tired but didn't know how to tell Austin that I'd actually love nothing more than to throw myself right on to this bed to sleep. But before I could even think about what to say, he grabbed the grocery bag that I had set down on the desk when I walked inside. I sat down on the bed to watch him as he took the cupcake box out of the bag. He opened it up, and removed just one candle from the box. He slowly pushed the bottom of the candle into the frosting.

Why did that turn me on????

"Ready to celebrate?" He asked me, smiling so big. I knew it was a rhetorical question.

"I feel like we've been celebrating all night." I smiled back while looking into those sweet baby blues. He lit the candle and walked over to me, sitting down across from me.

"Happy late birthday Stella." He said, low and raspy. His eye contact and the way the flame danced in his eyes was mesmerizing. "Make a wish."

I closed my eyes for a moment. Really, everything I could have wished for is currently happening. My dad and brother are well, my job in New York is well and allowing me all of this paid time off, and I was sitting here with Austin Butler.

I wish that this date is the best we've both ever had.

I opened my eyes and blew out the candle.

"What did you wish for?" He asked.

"I can't say or it won't come true." I replied. I knew that was silly but I was too embarrassed by my answer to tell him.

He looked at me for a second. Probably trying to decide whether or not he was going to accept my answer. After a few moments, he scooped up a little frosting on his finger and set it right on the tip of my nose. My jaw dropped in surprise.

I know he didn't just do that.

After my brain loaded and processed the fact that he did in fact just do that, I wiped the frosting off my nose and licked it off my finger. In an obvious, over done tease kind of way. Playful. He rubbed his chin between his index finger and his thumb.

"Do you want a bite?" He asked me.

Of you? Or the cupcake?

I was pretty sure he was talking about the cupcake so I just nodded my head slightly. He brought the cupcake up to my mouth and I took a bite, definitely getting frosting on my mouth. I giggled as he pulled the cupcake back, wiping the frosting off my lip. I stood up to get a tissue from the bathroom so I didn't get any frosting on my dress.

"Are you gonna have some?" I asked.

"I mean, yeah, if you're sharing. I didn't want to take your birthday treat." He said smiling.

"Oh please!" I responded. "They're honestly so rich I can never get more than a few bites in but I love them."

We passed the cupcake back and forth taking bites of it until it was all gone. It was a really sweet moment. I enjoyed every second of it. Once we finished, Austin stood to clean the cupcake box up.

"Um. Do you mind if I get ready for bed? My body is still on New York time and it's way past my bedtime. I'm really sorry, I want to stay awake with you but I just don't think I can much longer." I asked, sheepishly. I don't know why he made me nervous this way. Not because I thought he'd be upset, but really because I just wanted to make him happy.

"Not at all. Which bed do you want?" He said, handing me the overnight bag he brought me.

"Either is fine" I said, turning to the bathroom to get myself ready to pass the hell out.

I opened the bag and found all the toiletries. He even put makeup wipes and face wash in there. What a gem. I peeked and the pajamas. It looked like one of his t-shirts and a pair of his black sweat pants. I wasn't sure what I was expecting, but not this. This seemed more personal than a nice set of lingerie and I really appreciated that it wasn't. I took off my shoes and my dress and threw on his t shirt first. It went down to my mid thigh and I thought about how I could stash this in my purse tomorrow morning because it was so comfortable. And it smelled like him. Then, I realized that my scrunchie was in my purse and I needed it to wash my face. Could I have put the sweatpants on first and then gone out to where my purse was sitting? Sure. I could have. But where's the fun in that?

I opened the bathroom door and tiptoed out to the desk where my purse was sitting.

"Mmmm." Austin said, quietly. But loud enough that he knew I could hear him.

I looked up, pretending to be slightly surprised that he was there. He was laying in the bed closer to the door. I somehow knew he'd choose that one. He seemed very protective. I didn't mind it at all. I smiled a cheeky little smile at him and turned around to walk back to the bathroom.

I finished getting ready. Washing my face, brushing my teeth, and I even put my hair in a low braid so it wouldn't look crazy in the morning. I cleaned everything up, put it back in the bag, and grabbed my dress so I could hang it up. A dress like that did not need to be shoved into a bag.

I left the bathroom to find Austin, changed into his pajamas, and reading a book on top of the comforter in bed. Grey sweat pants and a white t shirt. Good choice honestly. He looked up and smiled at me. "Feel better?" He asked. I nodded. I climbed in to my bed and yawned immediately while I pulled the covers up over me. Austin stood up and walked over to me. Grey sweats, right in my face.

Wowie.

"I'm going to go get ready for bed now. In case you're asleep when I'm done, I really enjoyed our night. I hope you sleep well." He said, putting his hand on my cheek again. I looked up at him and smiled.

"I had so much fun. Thanks for dinner. And the cupcake." I said, starting to yawn again.

"Mm. Anytime. Sleep tight, Stella." He said, turning to walk in to the bathroom. I was sad when his hand left my cheek. When he touched me it felt like electricity. I wondered if he felt it too.

Austin's Point of View

When I was done getting ready for bed, I found Stella asleep. All covered up by the comforter. Wrapped around her head and everything. Like a little cocoon and it was damn near the cutest thing I think I'd ever seen.

It was nearly midnight at this point and I figured I should probably get some rest for our fun day tomorrow. I set my book on the nightstand and clicked off the light.

A few hours later I woke up to a sound. And in my daze I couldn't initially tell what it was. I quickly realized it was Stella and she sounded like she was starting to hyperventilate. She was having a nightmare. She was starting to shake her head "no" and I realized it must have been bad. I looked at the clock. 2:17am.

"Stella" I said while putting my hand on her arm. Nothing. "Stella!" I said again, gently shaking her arm. Still nothing. I knelt by the bed so I was face level with her, hoping to startle her less when she finally did wake up. "Stella. You're having a bad dream. Wake up!" I said, shaking her arm a little less gently and she jumped a little, pushed herself up a bit with her arms, and looked around to see where she was. "Hey, it's okay. It was a dream. You're safe." Her face relaxed and she laid back down and looked at me, still face level with her.

"I didn't mean to wake you up." She whispered. Tears started welling in her eyes.

"No, no. I was already up" I said, giving just a little smirk.

"You're lying" she replied, still in a near whisper, playfully pushing my shoulder.

"Do you wanna talk about it?" I asked, because I knew that always helped me realize that it wasn't reality.

"I was dreaming about when my mom called me about the accident. I only had this dream one other time, a few days ago. I didn't realize it was going to be a recurring thing." She was still whispering, but this time because she was trying not to cry. A single tear fell from her eye. I quickly wiped it away with my thumb.

"I'm so sorry. Do you want me to lay with you until you fall back asleep?" I asked. I wasn't sure if that was the right move but all I wanted was to scoop her up and hold her until she felt safe again. I just didn't want her to feel alone. She nodded her head so I climbed up next to her, under the covers. She rolled over and rested her head on my chest, draping her arm across the rest of it. I set my hand on her head to stroke her hair, and turned my face to her, kissing the top of her head. She hugged me a little tighter when I did that, in thanks for comforting her.

Within a few minutes I felt her breathing slow and heard her breaths get heavier. She was sleeping again and I was quickly dozing too. As much as I wished she'd never have to have a dream like that, I was glad that this was the outcome. It felt right.

Stella's Point of View

The sun started shining through the window, right into my eyes. Pleasant. I guess we didn't shut the curtains when we got in last night.

Then I realized I was still resting my head on Austin's chest. Wowie. And the butterflies immediately hit my stomach. I was simultaneously so excited and so nervous. I thought was dreaming this entire date and last nights nightmare was just a dream inside of a dream. I tilted my head up to see if he was still asleep and he was. But Jesus I had to pee so bad. I got up as slowly and quietly as I could and snuck to the bathroom.

When I returned, I climbed back in to bed just as slowly and quietly and nuzzled gently next to him so I didn't wake him up. He pulled his hand back up to my face and rubbed my cheek with his thumb. God I loved that. "Good morning beautiful" he said, in a the sleepiest, lowest voice I could imagine. I looked up at him, surprised that he was awake. I thought I was more stealthy. He looked at me with sleepy eyes and a little grin and leaned in to kiss my forehead. I nuzzled as close as I could and we laid there in half sleepy silence for a while. God, I wanted to kiss him. So badly. And I brushed my teeth when I peed, just for good measure. But I wasn't sure that he'd want to kiss me so soon. So instead, I laid there, tracing letters and shapes on his chest.