#Nail charm application tips

[funfooter]

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Nail charms have evolved far beyond their humble beginnings. What once might have been considered a novelty is now a legitimate art form. These small yet impactful decorations allow for endless creativity and personalization, catering to all styles—from minimalistic elegance to intricate, attention-grabbing designs.

[meltedbluecaterpillar]

I saw your post about requests and I figured I'd ask - would it be alright to request something with Leona performing oral? (I don't mind what assets the reader has - either way is fun hehe)

I feel like the sight of his sexy fuckin face while his head is between my thighs and his arms are wrapped around my legs to hold them open so he can easily access whatever he wants to is hot AF lol

I hope you have a nice day! Remember to stay hydrated (⁠ﾉ⁠◕⁠ヮ⁠◕⁠)⁠ﾉ⁠*⁠.⁠✧

Apply Pressure

A/N: Oh my dearest Alice... How you've seduced me with this thought... Unfortunately... I am a bigger fan of sinking to my knees for Leona... But... I also like this kind of service... I hope you enjoy what I've made.

tags: Leona Kingscholar x gn!afab!reader, cunnilingus wc: 507

Leona Kingscholar had bewitched you with his charms once again. It wasn’t like the two of you had a romantic relationship. No, not at all. It was far more explicit. A form of animalism on Leona’s behalf. You had something between your legs that he had hungered for. And with enough prodding and poking, convincing and cooing, he had you all to himself in the botanical gardens.  

It was an occasion that you couldn’t predict. You would find yourself dozing off in class in the early morning. And around lunch time, the lion would seek you out for something more entertaining. Today was one of those occasions. His knee parted your thighs when he cornered you, whispering sweet nothings that stoked a familiar flame in your stomach. With a smirk, Leona had you trailing right behind him with your gaze turned towards the tips of your shoes.  

Your chest heaved, thighs clamping around his head as his sandpapery tongue dragged against your plush folds. His lips pursed and kissed wetly at your aching clit. His hands held your hips tightly pressed against the soft earth to keep you from bucking against his face. Your pleas and cries fell silent to his little brown ears. It was just the foreplay. The wild flicks of his tongue that would urge your orgasm out of your shaking body was only the foreplay. Leona usually did this for the sake of his own pleasure. His tail would flick and curl in the air as he kissed and sucked, not caring for the shaking sound of your voice as he savored your nectar.  

“Leona- Please waait... Mmm’cumming again...” Your voice was strangled in your throat as the beastman continued. Tears pricking the corners off your eyes from overstimulation and your hands un-balled from fists to find purchase in his long, dark hair. Your legs were shaking uncontrollably as Leona laughed against your throbbing mound. He whispered something inaudible to you. His nails dug into your skin, tongue delving inside of your wet, silky walls as he continued to devour you. The muscles constricted and throbbed as your body shook beneath him. Coming unraveled from his light touches and the rough texture of his tongue against your aching clit.  

The moans falling from your lips was something that encouraged Leona. You couldn’t remember how many orgasms the beastman had already gotten out of you. And you weren’t sure how much more you could take. His thumbs began to press roughly against that soft spot of skin under your belly button. The application of pressure made you gasp, your voice pitching high as a sudden gush of fluid began to pour out of you. The familiar stickiness coated Leona’s mouth as you uncontrollably rocked your hips against the soft ground and up against his awaiting mouth. The beastman lapped and swiped his tongue against your awaiting hole. He could feel how boneless you had become. Limp and malleable under his hold.  

Again, this was just foreplay. There was far more to come for you.  

[dollarstoreartsupplies]

things that remind me of the nerdy prudes

(because like two people reblogged this one i did forever ago for the losers and i forgot how fun these are)

grace:

getting veggie tales songs stuck in your head as an adult, knee socks, eating all your broccoli, sparkly butterfly clips, watching sunlight glint off a lake through the treeline, guinea pigs, friendship bracelets off a water bottle, being secretly glad when someone you don’t like turns out to be a bad person, a bunch of cellophane candy wrappers crinkling at the bottom of your purse, being a little too into archery at summer camp, pastel bible highlighters, banana pancakes, tying way too many ribbons around the advent wreath, leggings under dresses, daydreaming about how you’d escape if you ever got kidnapped, strawberry ice cream, roller skating with almost too much protective gear on, cloud gazing, obvious family secrets that everyone refuses to tell you, feeling weirdly guilty for ordering your steak rare, bringing too many swaps to girl scout camp so you can trade with everyone, asking a new friend for their email address, long denim skirts

steph:

really dry liquid lipstick you bought in your freshman year of high school but refuse to throw out, 24 hour diners, typing in all lowercase but never actually changing the setting in your phone, listening to music you hate but gaslighting yourself until you enjoy it, really dark purple nail polish that looks black, collecting crystals even though you don’t really believe in them, saying your team bella (but secretly being team jacob), getting mad your vape was confiscated at your high school graduation, one million rings, coffee ice cream, tinfoil in a microwave, exclusively wearing sports bras, shoplifting, pink monster, thinking cigarettes are really hot, never wearing a jacket even if your cold, penny boarding, drinking four loko, regretting four loko, refusing to put your hair up even when you really should, kuromi, half fallen down led lights, playing your mom’s old guitar, sour skittles

pete:

planetariums, being overly competitive at board games, ginger ale, using a chapstick until it runs out, really liking marshmallows, really liking hot chocolate, hating marshmallows in your hot chocolate, buying a bunch of cool notebooks and never using them, forever dm, pretending you didn’t find asdf movies as funny as you actually did, m&ms, freezing cold hands, hand-me-down sweaters, only ordering chicken fingers and french fries, being intrinsically trusted by cats, carrying a clarinet to school every day, skipping episodes of next gen if they don’t feature data, praying on the first day of school that your teachers didn’t have your older sibling, transition glasses lenses (that you absolutely regret), dry krave cereal, secretly finding most museums really boring, grow-your-own-geode science kits, wing tip tap shoes, messenger bags, only doing extracurriculars that look good on college applications

ruth:

your comfort gay newsies fanfiction from middle school, being jealous of your younger sibling, those phone cases with glitter and charms floating in water, team edward and team jacob, wishing you hadn’t quit dance, buying fun jewelry and never wearing it, being devastated your hair is too dark to dip dye in kool aid, sticky lip gloss, painting every nail a different color, self sabotage, crushed velvet scrunchies, the grease soundtrack, wanting to be a rockette when you grew up, never learning how to do make up, begging to do figure skating as a kid, begging to do beauty pageants as a kid, begging to do cheerleading as a kid, turquoise braces bands, sinclair gas stations, showing up to an audition that you didn’t realize had a dance call, dunkin’ donuts munchkins, squirrel girl comic books, one half of a best friend necklace you wore longer than you should have

richie:

trying to get the marble out of a ramune bottle, wearing big headphones 24/7 (even if they aren’t playing anything), staining your best friend’s bathtub blue with hair dye, sour patch kids, enamel pins, discord calls across like three different time zones, the charlie bone book series, getting in trouble for drawing in class, being the friend with a car but also being a terrible driver, a pokémon card binder, that one kid who was really, really good at cup stacking, wearing shorts in the middle of winter, thirty-nine minute long voice memos, being exceptional at claw machines, vocaloid songs, your pet parakeet hanging out on top of your head, that one vaguely traumatizing round of the pocky game from seventh grade, regularly broken duolingo streaks, getting in trouble for bringing a real katana to your freshman year halloween dance

[flowerbetweenfangs]

Cream Filling: Chapter Four

CW: There is discussion of an abusive relationship. The MC also remembers the lovebombing stage. Nothing is on screen, so to speak.

This is part of an ongoing series. You can read the previous part here!

Thick sheets of snow covered the streets, the grey sky plunging the world outside into early darkness. Streetlights flicked on, bathing everything in amber light. Despite the lack of sunlight, the sidewalks and strip were empty. 

“Full moon,” Horac commented. “Everyone who’s got half a brain is already at home.” 

“Magic rituals, werewolves running around, and everyone who needs it is charging their charms.” Wrecks shrugged, before yawning. 

“All the wildlife around my home is being so noisy right now. I barely got any sleep last night.” He rubbed his main eyes. 

Elle went to touch her protective charm, but only felt the spider. Right. She’d left stone at home, right on the windowsill so the rays of the moon would charge it with protective magic. Her neck felt naked without it. 

A blast of cold air hit her. Shivering, she rubbed her arms as a man in a large coat shuffled in, clutching papers. His face was wound in scarves, hiding his face. Without a word, he came to the front counter and set the pile down, without looking at Elle. His fingerless gloves showed his nails were thick and opaque, slightly longer than normal, and tapering to a point. 

His hand rested on the counter, and the papers shuffled again. 

Looking down, Elle realized it was a job application he was presenting to her. Before she could ask him any questions, he shuffled away, pulling his patchy coat tighter around himself went to the door, holding it open as a gaggle of goblins came in. 

Quickly, she snatched up the application and put it into a manilla envelope along with the rest. Runes appeared on the tab at the top, before the papers vanished in a puff of smoke. 

“Welcome to Ramses!” She called out, having to lean over the counter to look the new customers in the eye. They were a small group of regulars, and she gave them her best smile. 

Once the café closed, Elle tried to not lament the small pile of tips on the counter. At least with her favor, it meant that the debts she’s acquired would be a lot less cumbersome in the next couple of weeks. Still, she felt a pang of anxiety as she picked up the bills and stuffed them into her wallet. 

“Attention residents.” A voice crackled over an old ham radio, the dials twisting to try and get a signal. Elle jumped, putting a hand over her chest as her heart hammered. 

“Moonrise is in three hours!” The voice continued, followed by feedback. Wrecks yelled, covering his ears and scuttling to the kitchen.

 “We advise all non-magical residents to please be indoors before then.” The crackling lessened. “All those afflicted with lycanthropy please proceed to safe areas. Those who plan on performing rituals, please refrain from doing so unless you are being supervised by a professional…” 

As more warnings and advisories warbled on, Elle rubbed her ears. 

“You alright, Rookie?” Horac asked, going to the radio and attempting to adjust the volume, before yelping as a bolt of magic hit his fingers. Waving his hand, he sucked on his finger and glowered at the machine. 

“Does it do that every full moon?” She winced, hoping it would stop soon. 

“Yeah. But we’re normally out by then.” Horac shrugged, then looked at the empty café. “But we have to have one for safety standards.” 

Sighing, Elle went to the back and clocked out. 

Wrecks parted with a polite farewell, before scampering up the side of the café. Silky strands quickly froze as he spun, but that seemed to be the goal because the drider was using them as a bridge. 

Hopefully, this one wouldn’t be burnt down. 

Going to her car, Elle shivered. Snow was starting to come down heavy again, clinging to her clothes and hair. The old clunker was already covered in a foot of snow. She unlocked the door and pulled, having to yank harder than normal to free it from the ice. 

After scraping off her windows, she sat in the driver’s seat. Her breath was foggy. Taking the key, she stuck it in the ignition. Turning it, she felt her heart drop when the engine stalled. 

No. She was just starting to claw her way out of debt. She could not have this happen now! Turning the key again, she held her breath as the engine sputtered, but nothing more. 

Why today of all days? Trying to keep her breathing steady, she rubbed the steering wheel. Whispering a few affirmations, she tried to will the car into starting. 

There was a rap on the window. Turning, she saw Horac standing right outside. 

“Need a jump?” He looked pointedly at the front of her car. 

“My savior!” She called out, opening the door and popping her trunk. 

Once she got out the jumper cables, Horac repositioned his truck. It was probably older than her clunker, but obviously better taken care of. There was a wax finish on it, catching the streetlight and looking lovely. The tires were new, windows all but sparkling. If it wasn’t for the snow and some slush, it would have looked like it rolled off a vintage vehicle lot. 

And when it started, the engine purred. 

Elle wondered if he was the type to stay in the garage after dark, polishing the metal meticulously. And if he winced every time her car squealed to life. 

Once she’d opened the hood, Elle rubbed her hands together and stared at the vehicles. The Boarman fiddled with the cables, before standing next to her. Without realizing it, she scooted closer to him, feeling his body heat. 

Sighing, he slipped off his coat and put it over Elle’s shoulders. Whatever it was made of was heavy, nearly making her knees buckle. She pulled it closed, adjusting her stance to stay upright. 

“Aren’t you cold?” Elle asked. 

“It’s not too bad.” He assured her. “I’ve dealt with a lot worse.” He fiddled with his key ring. “You want me to unlock the café so you can wait inside while your battery charges?” 

With a sigh, Elle shook her head. “Don’t worry about it, there should be enough juice for me to get home.” The thought of her getting stuck on the highway on the trip back made her shiver. To be out on the full moon, without a protective charm. Shaking her head, Elle walked to her car and rubbed the roof, giving it a few more affirmations. 

After a few more minutes, Elle slipped into the car and took in a deep breath. Turning the key, she winced when the car sputtered, before dying again. Sighing, she hit her forehead against the steering wheel, feeling ready to burst into tears. 

Come on… Not today of all days. 

“Want to call your insurance?” 

Biting her lip, Elle avoided the Boarman’s eyes.

“... You have insurance, right?” 

When she didn’t respond, Horac mumbled something, running a hand down his face and rolling his eyes. Sighing, he looked away and at the businesses turning their lights out and covering their windows. 

“Then again, I don’t think there are any places open because of the full moon.” 

Looking at his truck, Horac jerked his head toward it. “Come on. I’ll take you home.” 

“It’s a half-hour drive!” Elle protested. “And you’ll be in the Leviathan district!” 

“Alternative: Leave my coworker stranded on the full moon. She gets bitten by a werewolf or worse.” Horac took the cables off and put them back in her trunk. “A ride service is going to be more expensive, but if that’s what you’re more comfortable with.” 

Elle wasn’t so sure the pittance in her wallet would cover the gas money the truck would need, let alone for a ride service or taxi.

“Well…” 

“I should be able to make it back with plenty of daylight to spare,” Horac assured her. 

Looking at her car, Elle slipped in and gave it one more try, but the engine only clicked. 

Pulling out the tips, she peeled off one bill for herself and passed the rest to him. “I know that thing’s gotta be a gas guzzler.” 

Rolling his eyes, Horac sighed and helped her into the truck, before starting it. They drove through the strip in silence as more snow fell. 

“I knew that thing was going to crap out on your eventually.” Horac sighed. “I could always hear it before seeing it.” 

Elle felt her cheeks burn. “It was all I had.” She swallowed hard. “I… Lived in it for a few months before I got the job at Ramses.” 

Horac’s shoulders squared, his grip on the steering wheel tightening. 

“Damn.” His tusks wiggled. “I… Don’t mean to pry, but has your ex been bothering you again?” 

Shaking her head, Elle looked down at her phone. “No. I used my favor to make sure that he’d been taken care of.” 

“Any word on that?” 

“No, but it’s only been two days.” Elle sucked in a breath, looking at the burn on her wrist. It still perfectly resembled a pair of lips. Heat rushed through her, the memory of Ash’s lips on her skin fresh. 

“You’re gonna be fine,” Horac said, reaching over like he was going to clap her on the shoulder. His hand hovered, before returning to the wheel “Ash, if nothing else, knows how to leave his customers satisfied.” 

The silence that followed was stifling. Horac fumbled for the radio, finally managing to turn on a classic rock station. 

They were about to get onto the highway when traffic started to bottleneck. Elle inhaled sharply, seeing all the cars ahead of them. 

“Rookie.” Horac’s voice was calm. “This may put you in an awkward spot. And I’m sorry.” 

Her eyes didn’t leave the road. There were a few vehicles that had slid off and flipped over. A few of the occupants were camped out on the shoulders, bundled up against the cold and chatting with police officers or on their phones. Despite this, another car flew past them in the merging lane. 

Unable to stop, it slid, rear wheels spinning as the driver tried to get traction again. 

If it was this bad now, how would it be after Horac dropped her off? Sure, his truck was better suited for the conditions, but the other drivers…

“Horac. How far away do you live?” 

“About twenty minutes from here, other direction.” He said, eyes not leaving the road. Another car spun out, and he winced. 

“I would… Feel really bad if you drove back in this.” Elle swallowed. “I… Don’t have anyone at home that needs me. If it’s easier, I can just crash on your couch tonight?” 

Horac visibly relaxed. “I didn’t want to make it awkward and just offer it to you. But it beats driving home in this.” He craned his neck and nodded. 

“Let me get off at this exit.” Flipping on his blinker, Horac inched forward and then eased out of the traffic. 

Elle kept a death grip on the handle above the window. 

“Will, uh, your kids be there?” 

“No.” Horace’s eyes narrowed and he began to ease up the ramp. “It’s their week with mom.” He let out his breath when they managed to get onto a level surface. “We switch off every Friday.” 

Once they were back in the district limits, the ride went a lot smoother.

“They’re safe?” 

“Yes.” He exhaled sharply. “The safest they can be.” 

They drove in silence again, the music filling the void. Buildings began to become sparse, long snowy fields taking over. She stared at them, seeing a few dead stalks of plants. Farmland? She frowned. 

Horac kept his speed low, so the twenty minutes turned into thirty before they came upon an iron gate. Elle blinked rapidly, trying to hide her confusion. To her shock, the gate didn’t look like it surrounded a community, but a long sprawling driveway. 

With a grunt, Horac opened the door and stepped out of the truck, physically opening the gate. It squealed noisily, making Elle grit her teeth, hands clapping over her ears. Once it was open, Horac looked back at her. The gate trembled slightly in his grip, but he kept it lifted. 

“Think you can scooch it up a little bit for me?” He beckoned her. 

Looking at the driver’s seat, Elle bit her lip. Unbuckling her seatbelt, she slid into the driver’s seat. With a white-knuckled grip, she shifted the gears and slowly edged the truck forward, hearing the roar of the engine as she stomped onto the gas. The vehicle lurched forward, and Elle quickly slammed on the brakes, chest hitting the steering wheel. 

Horac winced and kept his head down as he waved her forward. 

Much softer, Elle pressed on the gas. The wheels spun, spraying snow behind the bed of the truck, but the vehicle slowly rolled forward, finally passing the threshold. Slamming on the brakes again, she threw the gearshift into park and all but jumped into the passenger seat again as the gate squealed behind her. 

Horac got back into the truck with a sigh. 

“Well, you didn’t wreck it, so that’s a good start.”

They drove up the winding driveway, a house slowly coming into view. It was a two-story ranch, with a screened-in front porch. An old tire swing hung on a large tree in front, children’s toys covering the yard, half-buried in snow. Remnants of a garden were poking from behind a stone ring.

“It’s been in the family for years,” Horac explained as they parked. “Didn’t have the heart to sell it.” 

Stepping out of the truck, Elle shouldered her purse. The snow continued to come down in large flakes, leaving the area blindingly white. As they entered through the garage, she could feel the pressure of a second threshold spring up. 

Flipping on the lights, Horac opened the door, letting her go first. 

They entered a living room. Despite the toys in the front yard, the inside was spotless, things tucked away cleanly into totes or baskets, blankets on the back of an expensive-looking couch, and an old tv set. 

“Wow.” Elle fidgeted with her purse. “I had no idea.” 

“It’s an inheritance.” Horace shrugged, before going to the kitchen. “Er… I hope you don’t mind tv dinners. It’s all I got that’s human-friendly. I normally eat out when my kids are here. I, uh… Don’t really like cooking when I’m not working, you know?” 

“Sure!” Elle’s stomach grumbled. At this rate, she was ready to start chewing on anything solid. 

Next to the couch was a nightstand with a lamp. A silvery rectangle was next to it, showing cracked glass across the middle. 

Leaning down, she flipped on the lamp, illuminating a picture in a frame. It showed a dark-haired girl, maybe two or three, holding a newborn wrapped in a blanket. Her smile was big but didn’t reach her eyes. The crack covered a person reflected in the mirror, obscuring the picture taker. 

They were all human. 

Staring a moment longer, Elle finally pulled away when the floors creaked. Horac had gone down the hall, his shoulder scraping against the walls. 

Come to think of it, she’d never asked about his kids, and the Boarman never indulged information beyond that he had them or had to leave early to take care of something pertaining to them. 

Slipping off her coat, Elle looked down at her uniform. It was going to be uncomfortable sitting in it all night, but it was better than sliding off the road or being stranded. Pulling out her phone, she texted Wrecks that she and Horac had gotten back and were safe, reminding him to be careful. 

Heavy footsteps brought her back. 

There was a shirt and pair of shorts over Horac’s arm, judging by the size, it wouldn’t even fit over his head. 

“You don’t have to take it, but,” Horac shrugged, tossing over the clothes. “I can’t imagine the maid outfit is terribly comfortable.” 

Staring at the shirt, Elle saw it was the same pink as the ticket for “Temptation”. When she unfolded it, the club’s name was printed across the chest, a pair of crimson lips under it. 

“Old shirt,” Horac said sheepishly. 

“Were you in middle school?” Elle held it up to him. Even if they could get it over his head, it would probably rip at his shoulders. She wasn’t too read up on the anatomy of Boarmen. 

“I-” Horac shook his head. “It was a while ago.” 

Elle felt a twinge of guilt, knowing it would be unwise to press further. Holding the clothes to her chest, she ducked into the nearest room. 

There were twin beds on opposite walls, a closet between them. Each one had a trunk at a foot of it. The headboard on the right said “Isabella” the one on the right said “Jolie”. The walls were covered with children’s drawings, from markers to crayons. 

Isabella seemed to be the older one, showing more pictures. There was a drawing, showing a family of four, showing a dark-haired woman next to the girls, and a fair-haired man on the end. 

“Daddy, Mommy, Me, Jolie.” 

Elle stared at them, feeling a sudden pang in her chest. 

Slipping on the clothes, Elle folded up her uniform and sighed. 

When she came out, the shirt almost came to her knees, and the shorts down to her calves. The tie at the waist had to be looped around her hips to keep them from sliding down. 

Horac was fiddling with a dial on the television, hooking it up to his laptop and managing to get a show streaming. An old black and white movie flickered across the screen. There were two sad-looking tv dinners on the coffee table, which Elle ate. It was better than nothing, making the rumbling in her stomach lessen. 

They sat on opposite sides of the couch, the silence deafening. 

“I was thinking about breaking out some of my old bourbon,” Horac finally said. “But if you’re not comfortable, I-” 

“I haven’t been out drinking in years.” Elle almost laughed out loud. “I… Could never afford to.” She scratched the back of her head nervously. “I’m sorry, I don’t mean to talk about how broke I am all the time.” 

Horac shrugged. “I mean, you can’t help it.” He faced her.  “But… You have drank before, right?” 

“Oh, yeah!” Elle reassured him. “But it was like… Sneaking drinks from the older patrons of the academy I went to-” Her mouth closed, and she sighed. “It was a different time.” 

Horac got up and went to the kitchen, glasses and bottles clinking. When he came back, he unscrewed the lid and poured them both a glass, his much taller and larger than hers, topping it off with cola. 

A large ball of ice floated in the alcohol, fizzy clinging to it. 

Picking up the cup, Elle gave a smile. 

“To breaking old bonds,” Horac said, gently clinking his glass to hers. “May yours go smoother than mine.” The hem of his shirt hiked up, showing the twisted and knobby scar on his abdomen. 

Averting her eyes, Elle tried to not stare. 

Taking a drink, Elle winced at the taste but managed to gulp down the liquid. Eyes watering, she sniffed and wiped her nose. Setting the glass down, she took in a deep breath and pinched the bridge of her nose. 

“You’re supposed to go slow.” Horac teased, before taking a sip of his own drink and setting it down, and filling Elle’s glass with water. “Only drink as much as you want to. If you just want water, it’s fine. And if you want me to stop drinking, just tell me.” 

He drank another glass, switching the movie to an old tv show. His eyes were focused on the screen, but she could see him staring at her out of the corner of them. 

Nursing the water, she thought about the drawing, then the photograph. Genetics of interspecies relationships escaped her. Sure, there were cambions, dhampirs, and holsteins, but purely human children? “So… What happened to you?” 

“Hm?” 

“I saw… A picture in your daughter’s room. A family drawing. It uh… Didn’t look like a Boarman in the “dad” spot.” She felt bad about prodding, but she had to know. 

Horac was silent for a moment, running a thumb over the rim of his glass. His jaw clenched and unclenched before he sighed, topping off the drink with another round of bourbon. 

“It’s a bit of a sore subject, but I feel like you should know since you’re dealing with Asmodeus.” 

“What?” She tried to not look too baffled. 

“Some of us get a demon’s Favor. Some of us get their Ire.” Horac explained, staring at the credits as they rolled across the screen. 

“When I worked for Temptation, I was a good employee. A bunch of customers liked me, so did the workers. But I also wasn’t afraid to jump in and break things up when they got out of hand. It didn’t happen enough, but it was enough to justify keeping me around. I loved my wife. Loved my kids.” His tongue flitted across his lips. 

“The succubus who had a thing for me, she was something else. Ash encouraged her because he… Has a way of thinking that doesn’t really match up with mine.” He frowned, the pause following extended. 

“You don’t need to know the details of my screw-up.” Another drink, the glass filling with more bourbon and considerably less cola.

“But I messed up big time and got involved with shit I shouldn’t have been.” His shoulders sagged, shame darkening his features. 

“If you know anything about Concubi, they can get really attached to regular… “customers”.” He added air quotes around the last word.

“Anyway, she shot her shot, wanting more. Then didn’t take it well when I rejected her.” He winced. “I deserved it. Honestly, I should have had a lot more happen.” He finished his drink, setting down the glass. 

“Ramses approached me while I was in the hospital. And offered me a job as a cook. It was different, it was new. Fresh start. And I knew I could keep myself and my family safe.” He swallowed, eyes watery. “And I knew that once word had gotten around about the “incident” I would have a hard time finding anything else to do to make a living.”  

“So, I agreed. I went to turn in my two weeks. Asmodeus took my resignation as betrayal, so he twisted my body and changed it. Ash kept him from going any further than that. That man is a demon, but he’s at least able to see both sides of things. That’s the reason I didn’t throw him out the second he walked into the café.” 

Elle stared at him, her eyes wide. She picked up her glass and gulped it down, the rush of cold clearing her head. 

“My wife wasn’t an idiot but trusted me. The Club wound up sending a bunch of pictures to our home. My… actions had broken down the threshold enough for them to be able to cross.” Inhaling sharply, Horac squeezed his eyes shut. 

“The only solace I have is that the girls didn’t see them. Isabella doesn’t really remember what I used to look like, but she knows I’m… Different now. Jolie was a baby, so she’s only known this-” He waved a hand in front of his snout. 

“-as how I look.”  

Elle put a hand on his arm, giving it a light squeeze. He snorted, shaking his head. 

“I’m sorry.” She said softly, before letting him go and scooting away to the other side of the couch.

“I’m lucky.” Horac insisted. “They could have gone after my family. I’ll take something like this a thousand times if it means they’re safe.” 

He jerked his head toward her. 

“What about you?” 

Tit for tat. She almost felt guilty. He’d been so open with her about something that obviously hurt him, especially something that made him look… Less than perfect. 

Judging by how much he’d drunk, he wanted to forget. Horac seemed a little more buzzed, although his speech hadn’t begun to slur, and he seemed sharp. 

“I was eighteen.” Elle’s heart began to pound at the memory. The story had been told so many times, but each time she began, it was like her skin was being flayed open for everyone to see. 

***

“If you summon this, there’s no telling what would happen!” 

“Thousands of people summons demons every day.” Elodie swatted at the air. “And they’re doing just fine.” She looked at the symbols in the circle. “Besides, they have to do something before they can even do anything to you. Just gotta be smart about it.” 

She looked at the frightened faces of her old friends. Years had worn away the features, making them all fuzzy. There were infernal runes and symbols for various sins over their faces, obscuring them further. 

“I’m tired of living like this.” Scratching at her neck, Elodie finished touching up the last rune. “If this doesn’t work, I’ll go to the Beezelbub district and hit up the Vampires. I heard Plasma is supposed to be a safe Feeder Club.” 

Of course, the rumors about ‘blood bags’ were vile. Vampiric saliva could be addicting, leaving the human unable to go the recommended six weeks between feedings. The pay would get lower and lower, and three would bind the biter and bloody together, too big of a risk.

She looked at the circle on the floor once more. It looked close enough to the ones from the blogs she’d been consulting. 

“Now, you just need a bit of blood.” Elle paused, looking down at the components. “Whoever’s we use will be the one keeping this all in check.” 

“Why not yours?” 

“Hey!” She protested, feeling a rush of excitement and fear. “You sure about that? That means I’m gonna have all the power.” 

“You’re the one who knows the most about this.” 

Elodie huffed, scowling at the circle. “Still.” 

She flexed her fingers. Looking at the ritual knife, she picked it up, holding the handle tightly. No one moved to stop her. Either they were frozen with fear or had complete confidence. She wasn’t sure which one was better. 

Nodding, she began to head to the center of the circle, hearing a few gasps. 

“Last chance to back out,” She warned, eyeing the faces of her friends. 

No one moved. 

Taking the blade, Elle lifted her skirt and ran it along the outside of her thigh, chanting in the infernal language. It was harsh on her throat, like gargling nails. As crimson flowed from her leg to the central symbol, the lines began to glow. 

Air stirred, candle flames flickering. The energy began to shift, loud crackling making everyone jump. Elodie could feel the pressure and heat building but didn’t stop chanting. 

“Servant of Mammon, I command you to come to me!”  

A candle erupted. Then another. And soon the flames had become infernal pillars, faces flickering in the fire. Legions of screams began to add to the crackling, the heat becoming unbearable. Sweat poured into Elle’s mouth, but she didn’t stop chanting. 

Screams filled the air as the candles were dropped, and the room was vacated. Flames caught on the curtains. 

Stopping her chanting, Elodie ran out of the circle and began to stamp on the fires. Luckily, they hadn’t spread too much, but there was enough ash in the room to leave her clothes covered with them. Glaring at the closed doors, she crossed her arms. 

The petty part of her wanted to wait and see if any came back to check if she was alright. But she figured it wouldn’t end well. The Headmasters were likely already being informed of the ritual and that there was something on the loose the students couldn’t control. 

At least she could clean up the room before they got into more trouble. Or worse, someone with even less sense would try and do the ritual again and crack open a Hellmouth. 

She knelt to pick up the candles when a wave of heat rolled over her, the room suddenly bathed in crimson light. Whirling around, she saw a naked man sitting where her blood had spilled. 

Aside from the flesh-colored horns poking from his brow, he looked completely human. Inhaling sharply, Elodie felt a rush of scents hit her nose. Honey. Pine. Chocolate. Mint. The seemed to shift on a dime, images flashing in front of her. 

Honey poured in tea to sweeten it. A pine forest in the summer. A box of chocolates was passed to her by a classmate (who had the demon’s face for some reason). And the mint of someone’s breath as they leaned in to kiss her. 

Covering her mouth and nose, Elle coughed loudly, trying to clear her head and keep her eyes above the demon’s waist. 

A noise alerted him. Slowly, the stranger stood, a whip-like tail swishing behind him. Raking fingers through wavy hair, he opened his mouth to speak but paused. 

Doors burst open and in came the teachers and caretakers, shouting out binding spells and slapping charms on the walls to seal off the room. 

“Elodie Shepard! What were you thinking?” 

The demon vanished in a puff of pink smoke. 

As the room was blocked off, Elodie winced as she was grabbed by the arm and hauled off. 

“Well?” Headmistress Blackstone stared at Elodie from across her desk. “You’re lucky the spell didn’t work. Or who knows what you could have brought here.” 

Elle opened her mouth about to say it had, in fact, worked. But then she thought better of it and closed it. 

Blackstone spread polaroids taken from the scene across the desk. Despite the anger in her voice, the older woman’s brows quirked up, obviously impressed. 

“I know you’re kicking me out next week.” Elodie tried to keep her voice calm, despite the burning on her leg. “Because I haven’t shown any particular skills. Nothing to justify keeping me past adulthood.” 

“So,” Blackstone steepled her fingers. “Was this supposed to impress?” She shook her head, “Because the Guardians will have to be notified, and that room will have to be sealed off to prevent anything further from happening. Anyone who needed that room will be denied it for at least a month.” 

“It was supposed to give me a chance before I got thrown out with nothing.” Elodie shook her head. “You’ll never get it.” 

Sighing, Blackstone pinched the bridge of her nose. “I’m sorry, Miss Shepard. We tried to raise you right, even letting you stay past the cutoff date for a couple of gap years while we tried to finesse a proper higher education for you. But between your subpar test results, your need to skirt the rules, and the number of times you’ve been caught on grounds with boys-” 

“It takes two to tango!” 

“I know, Miss Shepard, but you have a… Habit. You’ve been caught no less than six times with four different boys. The woods. In the bathrooms. Even in the library where you were supposed to be studying! One of those boys had parents who donate to the school. They threatened to pull their funding because they thought we were neglecting his education.” 

Elodie scowled and looked out the window. “I bet if my parents were rich, you’d let it slide. But because I’m a foundling brat-” 

“There are a lot more with half your talent who work twice as hard,” Blackstone warned. “People who have gone through a lot more than just parental abandonment. You have to stop assuming people who aren’t blindly praising you are out to get you.” 

“This incident would have been the last straw, even if we had a reason to keep you here, this cannot be overlooked.” Blackstone pointed to one of the photos. “What were you planning on doing with this particular demon?” 

“A demon of Mammon can get you material goods.” Elodie shrugged. “Figured if I was going to be left with nothing, I could at least get myself something to help me live until I could get something to sustain myself.” 

“Well, you need to brush up on your runes.” She waved the photo. “ This is a symbol of Asmodeus, not Mammon.” 

“...Oh.” Elodie shifted uncomfortably. That explained a few things. 

They stared at one another in silence. Elodie shook her head, before standing up. 

“I’ll go collect my things.” 

Blackstone raised her hand, magic crackling in the air. Elodie plunked back down in the chair. 

“You’re never to take up the title of Mage, used magic generated of your own power, or use the academy for any reference in any career endeavors.” The Headmistress sniffed. “I hope this stunt was worth it.” 

As Elodie packed up her belongings, which wasn’t much, she noticed her friends were giving her a wide berth. A change of clothes and a few toiletries that could fit in a small backpack were all she had left in the world. 

If they hadn’t run… They’d probably be joining her on the street tonight instead of next week. 

Once she was off the property, the squeak of the iron gate loud in the night, she finally started to cry. She let out the tears,  before sniffing and wiping her eyes. Fanning herself, she managed to pull out a map without stumbling. 

This was it. She was on her own now. 

Staring at the map, she stood under a bus shelter, letting the dim amber of the streetlight illuminate the twisting lines of the map. Wind buffetted Elodie, threatening to rip the paper from her hands. Gripping it tightly, she grit her teeth and sucked in a breath. 

The cycling scents hit her nose again. Peppermint. Pumpkin. Fresh bread. Coffee. 

The smell of a city square during the holidays. Autumn gatherings with pastries. A bakery in the summer. A cafe in the spring. 

Jerking her head up, she stumbled back. The demon was standing across the street, now dressed in a uniform from the academy. It was too small for him, the buttons straining and pantlegs baring his ankles. 

“Oh! Now you show up!” Elodie snapped. 

“Sorry about that.” His voice made her breath catch. Each syllable seized her heart, and the map slipped from her hand.

“Adrian Ashborn.” The Power of his name crackled in the air. 

Ashborn. So Blackstone had been right. He was a Demon of Asmodeus. 

The faces in the flame came back. Were they other Concubi trying to break through the veil?  

“I was trying to summon a demon from Mammon , not Asmodeus.” Elodie rubbed her face. “You were a mistake, I’m sorry.” 

He was suddenly in front of her, their faces close enough for breath to mingle. 

“Gah!” She flinched away from him. 

“Don’t do that!” She rubbed her brow. The smells were starting to worm their way in, and she wanted to bury her face in his chest and just rest there. 

No, that was how they trapped people, focus!  

“Go away.” 

“I can’t do that.” He said, a matter of factly, keeping pace with her as she started to walk. “You summoned me, so you have to dismiss me.” 

“I’m not a mage anymore.” Elodie looked over her shoulders to check for cars. “They took all my magic, you must have felt the power holding you drain.” 

“You bound me with your blood, not power.” 

Elodie let out another groan, which seemed to amuse Adrian. His smirk would have been punchable on any other face. She still wanted to hit him, but she felt more restrained than normal. 

“They really sent you out here with nothing, huh?” 

“Can’t afford to keep feeding and housing me without a return.” Elodie sniffed, trying to flag down a passing car. “Barely managed to scrape by on my final exams to keep me. If I’d passed them this year, I’d be there until twenty-six.” 

They sped up, hitting a puddle of mud and spraying her. Stepping away from the road, she looked towed the lightening sky, ready to scream. 

They finally came to a rest stop, and Elodie ducked into the bathroom. Adrian started to follow her, but she swatted him in the chest, pointing to the sign. 

“Ladies only.” 

Inside, she scrubbed off the worst of the mud but was still covered with it. Changing her clothes, she stuffed the damp clothes in her backpack. At least she had that. 

When she came out, Adrian all but tackled her. He seized her arms, the touch sending a bolt through her. She barely managed to clench her jaw before a loud moan came out. 

“I got us a ride.” He jerked his head toward a van, where a bunch of men in flannel waved them over. 

“There’s a motel about three miles from here.” He explained. “They’re on their way to the nearby Hunting Grounds.” 

Werewolves. Blinking, Elodie sputtered. 

The pack was a polite, if talkative, bunch. They had filled up all the seats, but there was room on the floor of the van to sit, so she did. Adrian sat next to her.

Elodie was glad she didn’t have to say anything, although being in close proximity with Adrian was making her head spin. The scents, the warmth of his skin, the way the sun seemed to hit him just right. 

“Sucks that you’re in such a tight spot, but we’ve all been there.” The pack leader remarked, “It’s not much, but we’ll cover your first night so you can at least sleep somewhere warm while you try and get your bearings.” 

“Thank you.” Adrian smiled, and there was a collective inhale as everyone quickly averted their eyes. “Parents were a lot less accepting than you were.” 

Elodie tried to not roll her eyes. Of course, he’d go that route. Two lovebirds from different species in an unforgiving world. She felt guilty for lying, but she also didn’t want to be kicked out of somewhere twice in less than a day. 

“Just gotta find your people.” One of the wolves said. “It’ll get better, trust me.” 

The wolves let Adrian cover up with one of their blankets, but by the time they were at the motel, his skin was already blistered and peeling. The clerk took one look at them and about fainted, but quickly passed over the key as Elodie yanked him back into the room. 

“They weren’t kidding about you guys not being able to handle the sun.” Elodie winced, scouring the bathroom for a first aid kit. 

“I’ll heal up eventually.” Adrian watched her from the bed, which of course there was only one of. “You’re quite resistant.” 

“Huh?” She paused, looking at the pitiful bar of soap and toiletries they had. Sighing, she began to check the closet. 

“To my charms.” That damn smirk was back. 

“Oh. I feel them.” Elodie rolled her eyes. “But I’m ignoring it, like a random person screaming on the crosswalk.” 

“Ah. Explains your irritability. Ow!” He swatted at her backpack when it hit his face. When it fell, small red lines opened on his face and began to bleed. 

“Look.” His voice dropped a few octaves, freezing Elodie in place. “I have a proposition for you.” Taking a tissue from the box on the nightstand, he dabbed as the blood. “I can’t be sent back until I fulfill a contract, and you seem to be in a bit of a bind.” 

“I may be an incubus, but all that means is that I get my power a certain way. I might not have Mammon as my Prince but…” He squeezed the tissue tightly, the veins on his hand popping out. When he opened it, there were gold coins in his palm. 

Elodie stared at it, eyes wide. Licking her lips, she dared a few steps closer. 

“I think we can come to some sort of agreement.” He palmed the gold and stuck it in his pocket, the motion betraying his erection. 

“Good to know Demons are pigs just like their human counterparts.” Elodie snapped, turning away and scoffing. “I’m many things, but I don’t-” 

“It’s literally how I sustain myself, Dear. Do you shame a vampire for feeding on blood? Or a human for eating meat or vegetables? A spider for eating a fly?” 

Sighing, Elodie nodded. It was in his nature, and he couldn't help it. Not to mention he was probably in pain from the sunburn. He hadn’t asked to be summoned. And she’d yanked him into this mess. 

Turning to face him again, she rubbed her thigh nervously. 

“Just one contract, and you’ll go away?” 

“Of course.” The corner of his lip tugged up. “If that’s what you want.” 

Her lips parted as she tried to come up with the words, but nothing came out. 

“For one, I would like to not be reminded of Hell, so if you could be so kind as to assist me with my burns.” 

Swallowing, Elodie gestured to the empty closet behind her. “There’s uh… Not any aloe or anything like that.” 

“As I said, we sustain ourselves on a very specific sin.” He flexed his fingers, “Unless you’d rather me wait around until nightfall and go looking for someone else.” Leaning over, he put his ear to the door. “I can hear the hotel staff moving around, I’m certain there’s someone among them that wouldn’t mind a quick fuck in exchange for-” 

He yelped as Elodie slammed him against the headboard, arms clutching the too-tight shirt. Buttons popped off, rolling on the floor. 

“You are not going to abandon me after all I just went through!” She snapped, before realizing she was digging her nails into his skin. Blood had soaked into the fabric. Red smeared on her fingers, and she let him go. 

“I’m sorry.” 

“It’s fine,” Adrian assured her. “I love a woman who can kick my ass.” 

Rolling her eyes, Elodie slid off the bed, sitting at the foot of it. 

Adrian placed a hand on her thigh, right over the wound from the ritual knife. The touch was light, but it felt like he’d stuck a blade into the wound. Wincing, she pulled away, but his fingers lingered on her skin. 

“Why’d you cut there instead of your palm? Would have been a lot easier to control where your blood dropped in the circle.” 

“Not as many nerve endings. And I wanted to make sure I could hold onto the knife if you got wily.” Although her friends running and breaking the circle had made that pretty much impossible. 

“And if you’d cut here.” His fingers slid to her inner thigh, making her breath hitch. “You would have cut the femoral artery and bled out before the people who sealed off the room got there.” 

The touch was light, but Elodie could feel herself starting to quiver. Adrian inhaled deeply, closing his eyes. The blisters on his hands and fingers began to heal, the skin becoming smooth and whole again. 

“You may not be able to use magic made by your own power, Miss Elodie Shepard.” The energy of her name crackled in the air, making her heart skip a beat. 

“But I can promise you, if you allow me this, I will make sure that you are taken care of.” The tip of his finger brushed against the cotton of her panties. 

Elodie’s back arched, a shuddering breath escaping from her lips. The finger between her legs stayed, before Adrian’s hand began to travel up more, slipping past the fabric. A soft moan escaped him as he found the soaking folds. 

She fell back onto the bed, her skirt hiking up as her legs spread. The burns were gone from Adrian’s arm, and more were vanishing before her very eyes. Adrian’s fingers pumped in and out of her, his free hand sliding up and slipping under her shirt. It slowly rose up, exposing her midriff and bra to him. His nails traced over her breasts, covering her in gooseflesh. 

The hand went behind her shoulders, unhooking her bra with surprising precision. Leaning down, he took the cups between his mouth and yanked it off. 

Running his tongue over her nipples, he put it between his lips and began to suck. His finger circled her other breast, nail tracing over the erect tip. Between that and the fingers pumping in and out of her, it was almost too much to bear. 

She just wanted to come. But… Then what would happen? Panting, Elodie stared up at the ceiling, the soft moans getting louder and louder. 

“You held yourself together pretty well.” He rose up to straddle her. Taking his finger out, he brought it to his lips. It was shimmering with wetness. 

“But now that I know it’s there…” 

Opening his mouth, he began to suck it. A moan went through him as he shuddered, brushing his erection against her panties. When he pulled back, there was a wet spot on his crotch. 

“You’re not going to be able to hide it from me anymore.” He ground his hips into her, his smile widening as she let out a few whimpers, before clapping her hand over her mouth. How thin were the walls of this place? 

The noises made him chuckle, the blisters receding from his cheeks and jaw. Did anything related to sex give him power? 

“It’s taking all my self-control not to tear these off you right now.” He hooked a thumb under her waistband, slipping her underwear off and flinging it to the side. “When I get you some more clothes, I’ll make sure to do just that.” 

Grabbing the hem of her skirt, he roughly pulled it off, the seams popping. 

Putting a leg over his shoulder, he began to kiss down (up?) Elodie’s calf, the back of her knee, then thigh. His tongue circled her inner thigh, then slowly traveled up. His fingers parted her lower lips, breath rolling over the soaking folds. 

Elodie clutched the blanket, biting her lip. 

Adrian began to lick, hands wrapping around her thighs and placing her knees on his shoulders. Elodie yelped, legs crossing at the nape of his neck. The motion pushed him further into her, and he groaned. His teeth grazed her, revealing they were slightly sharper than a human’s, but not enough to be fangs. 

He plunged deeper, rolling his jaw and moaning, pulling back with a gasp and swirling his tongue around her clit. Elle moaned, rocking her hips against his face as her legs began to shake. The noises of pleasure only encouraged him further, and he continued to lick and suck at her clit, fingers plunging into her, thrusting back and forth. 

When he pulled his face off to breathe, he licked his lips and brushed up the fluid into his mouth, sucking his fingers with a moan. 

“Way better than aloe.” He panted, the burns now gone. Fumbling, he managed to unbutton the shirt and shrugged it off. 

Unbuttoning the pants, he let them slide down to his thighs, his cock hard and dribbling. Taking some of the fluid still on his chin, Adrian stroked himself, panting as he made eye contact with Elodie. Black and white rippled in his sclera. 

Pushing her leg up, Adrian lined himself up, damp head brushing against her wetness. Elodie’s breath hitched, feeling herself clench. He noticed, brows coming together in confusion. 

He put a finger on her clit, and began to circle it, grinding his hips against her, using her wetness to lube his shaft and head up. Biting his lip, he stared down at her, slowly starting to smile as she let out more pants of pleasure. 

As he continued to stimulate, he lined himself up again, her breath hitching as she shifted, opening her legs wider. She could see wetness on his fingers and her thighs. 

“You’re something else, Elodie,” Adrian said, his voice barely above a whisper. Shifting his hips, he slid inside her. “I can tell this is going to be the start of something amazing.” 

It was like a barrier had been broken, something inside her unraveling. Back arching, Elodie screamed as she saw every color of the rainbow, her vision blurring. Eyes watering, she felt her voice start to give out as her perception of the world started to slip away, only sensations of pleasure filling her mind. 

Adrian’s fingers laced with hers and he pinned them on either side of her head. His legs pushed hers apart and he began to thrust, hilting himself inside with each movement. 

Elodie could see various runes and symbols, feeling the contract starting to form. It was like manacles were forming around her wrists, pinning her to the bed. 

He released her, tangling his fingers in her hair and pressing her lips to his. As he continued to thrust, his tongue plunged into her mouth. Closing her eyes, she let the sensation take over. The runes and symbols seemed even more vivid than before. 

Wait… Those are infernal… 

Their tongues twined, and his moans reverberated in her ears, vibrating through her entire being, his heart thundering in his ribcage, the raising and lowering of his chest. Heats mingled, going from pleasantly warm to an inferno of pleasure. 

He’s been writing the contract the entire time? 

Adrian finally pulled back, gasping for air. His grip on Elodie’s hair tightened, keeping her head down on the bed. His skin glistened with sweat, his whole body heaving with exertion. 

Wait, go back, what does it say? 

Grabbing her hips, Adrian raised them, thrusting deeper than before. She could feel his hip bones with how hard he slammed into her, making her squeak and lock her legs around him. Smiling, he shifted and spread her out over his shaft, then started to rub her clit again. 

All thoughts and symbols began to fade away. 

Elodie yelped, feeling the pleasure ripple through her body, then crest as she clenched. 

Letting out a groan of pleasure, Adrian shuddered, his cock twitching. Panting, he pulled out, white strands spurting onto her stomach. 

“Well, I’d say that was…” His eyes narrowed as he lifted her hip. “What the Hell?” 

“W-what’s wrong?” Elodie sputtered, legs shaking too hard to move.

“You’re still twitching. You okay?” 

Nodding, Elodie fell back with a sigh, covering her eyes. He’d have to learn to not scare the bejeesus out of her next time. 

Wait… Why was she thinking about a next time? This was supposed to be a one-time thing. Panting, she turned on her side. Fumbling with the air conditioner, she turned it on full blast, letting the cool air roll over her. 

Then, her stomach heaved. Springing up from the bed, she rushed to the toilet, her legs giving out just when she reached it. 

Retching, she felt her stomach empty itself. The pleasure that filled her body started to turn into a pattern of throbbing and dull aches. 

Fingers went through her hair. Adrian clutched it in a knot at the back of her head, tight enough to hold it back, but loose enough not to make the headache worse. The cycling scents started again, but now they were making Elodie’s body shake and eyes water. 

“Sorry. Should have told you about this. It’s a bit of a hangover.” Adrian sat on the rim of the tub, leaning down and pressing his lips to her shoulder. Wincing, Elodie jerked away from his touch. “Humans aren’t… Too terribly used to the sensations.” 

He looked hurt, but it was hard to tell how much out of the corner of her eye. 

When Elodie finished, Adrian flushed the toilet, putting a damp rag to her forehead. Then, he picked her up and carried her out of the bathroom. 

The hotel room had gone from a barely furnished space, to something out of a luxury suite. The bed was taller, the comforter fluffier and embroidered with a scene from hell. A demon (that could be said to resemble Elodie) reclined in a pool, being fed some sort of fruit by a pair of naked men. Setting her down, Adrian smiled. 

The backpack she’d come in with was now a trunk, so full of clothing that the lid couldn’t close. Adrian pulled out a silk robe and passed it over to Elodie, and she slipped it on. He pulled out a matching one and tied it, but it did little to hide his growing erection. 

The mini-fridge that came with the room was now filled with champagne and chocolates. The nightstand was now filled with money and jewelry. 

“It’s a start,” Adrian confessed. “I’m not a servant of Mammon, but…” 

***

“It’s always good until it isn’t,” Elle said, sighing. 

“Making a contract that you couldn’t even read.” Horac shook his head and sighed. “Damn. I knew demons were sneaky, but that seems low, even for a Hell Dweller.” 

“It was my own damn fault.” Elle looked at her drink. Even if she hadn’t gone into all the details, they were still fresh. Concubi preyed on sensation, so encounters with them were near impossible to forget. 

“If I hadn’t tried to summon a demon, none of this would have happened.” Her hand went to her thigh. The scar had long since faded, but she could see it in her mind’s eye, still slick with blood. 

“But ‘maybe’, ‘shoulda’, ‘coulda’, ‘woulda’ gets tiring after a while.” She had gotten past the point of self-pity. It was why she’d started this new life. Why she’d gone into so much debt to escape him. And why she was finally going to leave the past where it belonged. Behind. 

“What will you do when he’s gone?” Horac asked. 

The question gave her pause. She’s spent so long focusing on getting out from under the rock it never really occurred to her what “later” would entail. 

“I don’t know. I never really had a plan outside of ‘get away’ and ‘pay off my debts’.” The original plan was to work as a mage. Then it was to survive with Adrian. Then it was to get away with Adrian…” She frowned. “I kind of just went along with what felt right at the time. Because…” Her hands closed on the empty air. 

“...It felt right?” Horac finished for her. 

She stifled a laugh. “Not as profound as I could have hoped.” She shrugged. “Until I know my next move, I’ll just keep doing what I’ve been doing.” 

Taking the tv dinners and glasses, Horac cleared off the table. He managed to find an old phone charger Elle could use. Once she’d gotten it plugged in, she set up a makeshift bed on the couch. 

Horac shuffled off to his bedroom, where Elle could hear him talking on the phone, likely to his daughters. Despite it all, he had people who cared about him. 

She thought about Wrecks and Ramses. Now she could add the Boarman to the list of people she considered her friends. 

Staring at the shadows on the ceiling, Elle laced her fingers over her stomach. Closing her eyes, she settled in, pulling the blankets up to her chin and trying to snatch a bit of sleep before the morning. 

Next part here!

[sergiosimptellitto]

Stars are meant to burn

Chapter 2: A complete idiot

There were three kinds of people in the world: Those who fought for power, those who begged for scraps— And Toti Bellastella, who stole the entire table, drank the wine, and seduced the caterer.

The espresso machine wheezed like a dying priest. He ignored it.

He reclined, shirt half-unbuttoned, his bare feet scandalously propped on the thousand-euro marble table in his office-slash-penthouse-slash-courtroom-of-chaos. The city of Naples writhed below like a living myth. Somewhere, someone was cursing his name. Someone else was toasting it.

Balance.

"Latin is a dying language," he muttered to himself, stirring honey into his coffee with the tip of a Montblanc pen. "So are manners. And look which one I still speak fluently."

Across from him, Riccardo—the long-suffering junior partner and moral barometer of the firm—sighed in exhaustion. "Sir, we need someone to handle the Rome archive files. The partner wants three weeks of coverage. Legal admin support, coffee runs, filing, that kind of thing. We offered travel and housing."

Bellastella winced. “So, basically, a dogwalker for the interns?”

“No,” Riccardo said, rubbing his forehead, “more like an unpaid intern for the printer. It’s a short contract.”

“God.” Toti stretched like a bored cat. “Imagine being such a hopeless idiot that you’d take that job.”

He laughed. A rich, baritone sound, echoing off the grand windows.

Then he blinked.

“Wait. We actually posted that?”

“Yes. Yesterday.”

Bellastella grinned. “And has anyone bit?”

Riccardo scrolled his tablet. “One applicant.”

“Poor soul,” he whispered theatrically. “We should send condolences. Maybe a fruit basket. They’ll be chewed alive.”

He stood, clapped his hands once.

“Well then. Let’s go ruin someone’s life for the better.”

Toti laughed, as he could not even dare imagine the complete idiot that had signed up for martyrdom.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

You had three euros, a dead phone, and the growing suspicion that you might have accidentally cursed herself.

Rome was louder than she thought. Hotter, too. The air had weight—like soup left on a windowsill too long. Your tote bag strap bit into your shoulder, digging over the curve of her neck as she dragged her suitcase down the cobbled street, wheels catching every ancient crack like she’d offended Julius Caesar personally.

The address was scrawled on the back of an old receipt—sweaty, crumpled, nearly illegible now. You'd copied it in a rush, while your parents yelled at each other over the living room speakerphone, the parrot shouting “WHERE’S MY LAWYER?!” on loop.

You had no data and had no coins for a public phone.

You had, somehow, forgotten your wallet. Again.

But you had Rome.

Sort of.

The apartment was up four flights of stairs and smelled like old soap and wet towels. Your new room had a window, technically. Also a sink that gurgled in its sleep.

The mattress was thin. Your knees touched the mini fridge. But it was yours, for three to four weeks.

You sat on the bed, sweating through your shirt. Reached for your dictionary.

“Mi chiamo…” “Io cerco… lavoro… alla firma?” No. “Nella firma.” No! “Nello studio legale.” Maybe.

You practiced for twenty minutes, then burned her tongue on a plastic cup of stovetop espresso you'd made wrong.

You couldn’t afford Rome. You didn’t belong in Rome. But you'd gotten the job. Somehow.

And tomorrow you were going to meet Toti Bellastella—the man who'd once been called the best legal mind in Italy, and also "a charming but incurable disaster" by the newspaper stuck under your parrot’s cage.

You would not mess this up. You would not.

You would—hopefully—remember your wallet this time.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

It started with a door she couldn’t open.

You pushed. Pulled. Pushed again. “Is it—locked?”

The secretary didn’t even look up from her nail file. “Slide.”

You slid. The door glided silently. Of course it did.

Inside, the law firm of Bellastella & Partners looked like an exhibit in a modern art museum: marble floors, steel lines, sunlight slicing across glass walls that had no business being that clean.

You stepped in, hoping no one could hear the squish of her cheap shoes or the desperate flutter of her stomach.

Your desk was in a hallway. Technically.

A hallway between two meeting rooms, near the espresso machine that screamed every four minutes like it was in labor. This job, apparently, included taking notes, translating documents she barely understood, and printing things for people who wouldn’t look at her face.

Underpaid was generous.

You had a folder. A passcode. A metal water bottle the intern before her had left behind. You liked to believe it was a parting gift. Or a warning.

And then—he arrived.

Toti Bellastella, Professor. Legal giant. National headline. Local disaster.

Bellastella is not beautiful, not exactly. Too sharp around the edges. His nose looks broken once or twice in his youth. But his eyes crinkle when he smiles, and his shirt is rolled to the elbows in a way that suggests he didn’t mean to look this charming. Which means he absolutely did.

He strolled through the doors late, no tie, curls a little too long for formality, sunglasses still on inside. His coat swept behind him like it belonged to someone wealthier.

“Bellissima giornata,” he announced to no one in particular, then leaned dramatically against the reception desk. “Did anyone miss me?”

A chorus of “no” and “always” floated back. He laughed.

Then he spotted you.

He removed his sunglasses slowly, like peeling off a mask. “And who’s this vision of undercompensated genius?”

You stared. “I… I’m the new assistant.”

“Of course you are.” He extended his hand, grinning. “Toti. Or Your Grace, if you’re feeling formal.”

You took it, unsure whether to laugh or slap him. He kissed the air near her cheek, then did the same to the intern, and the paralegal, and—was that the janitor?

He was a walking HR complaint with a philosophy degree.

By 6 p.m., the office had started to thin out—like rats abandoning a ship that was on fire but also somehow hosting a gala.

You were still there. Hair a mess. Shoes off. Typing with one hand while holding an outdated Italian legal dictionary in the other.

You hadn’t eaten. And your stomach was making passive-aggressive noises. Again.

A folder slammed on her desk.

“New case. Needs a memo by tomorrow,” said a junior associate, without stopping. “Bellastella said you’d handle it.”

You blinked. “What?”

The associate was already gone.

Then you opened the folder.

She stood up, clutching the folder like a life raft. “Excuse me—where’s Professor Bellastella?”

“Out,” someone replied. “Milan. Or maybe Madrid. Depends on which mistress he’s lying to.”

There was a laugh. It didn’t help.

Your phone buzzed. A message from a cousin: “My Mariella just got engaged to that engineer, can you believe it? And you? How’s the big career?”

You stared at the message until the screen dimmed.

Then she returned to the French folder and the sea of legal jargon.

A note fell out from the back. Sloppily written. Smelled like cologne and ego.

“Intern, If this ends up in flames, blame the French. You’ll figure it out. —T.”

You closed her eyes and muttered a prayer to every language god known to mankind. Then she dug up Google Translate, a mug half-filled with cold espresso, and got to work.

By midnight, the janitor nodded at you like you were war buddies.

By 2 a.m., you had a working draft.

And by 3 a.m., you realized—that you were too tired to cry.

But you'd figured it out. Somehow. Sort of.

You mostly did.

[snow-dotcom]

안녕하세요 cutie patooties! Today I’m going to go over my hand care routine, both daily and weekly ^-^ hand care is so important and although you don’t necessarily need to do these things, I love doing it to keep my hands so soft and youthful <3

Let’s give these precious little paws the love and care they deserve with a super kawaii hand care routine! Here’s how to pamper your hands and keep them irresistibly soft and charming every day! 🎀✨

Morning Hand care routine ⋆𐙚₊˚⊹♡

Exfoliate and cleanse ✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩

Exfoliation is a vital step in your morning routine to keep your hands looking and feeling silky smooth. I usually use my hello kitty scrub cause it’s hydrating too <3

Serum ✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩

Serums can be a game-changer in maintaining youthful and radiant hands. Look for a serum specifically formulated for hands, packed with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or vitamin C to boost hydration and combat signs of aging.

After Cleansing: Once your hands are cleansed and exfoliated, take a small amount of your preferred kawaii hand serum onto your fingertips. Dot the serum onto the back of one hand, then gently massage it into both hands using upward motions, focusing on areas that may show signs of aging or dryness.

Hand Cream ✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩

Using a nourishing hand cream in your morning routine is essential for maintaining soft, hydrated, and youthful-looking hands throughout the day. Look for a hand cream enriched with hydrating ingredients like shea butter, glycerin, or almond oil for maximum moisture.

SPF ✮ ⋆ ˚｡𖦹 ⋆｡°✩

Don’t forget to extend your sunscreen application to your hands! UV rays can cause premature aging, dark spots, and skin damage, making it crucial to apply a dedicated hand-specific SPF.

Hand care tips <3

Regular Hydration: Keep your hands hydrated throughout the day by applying hand cream frequently, especially after washing your hands, to prevent dryness.

Gentle Cleansing: Use mild, moisturizing hand washes or cleansers to cleanse your hands without stripping away natural oils.

Sun Protection: Apply a hand-specific SPF daily to shield your hands from harmful UV rays and prevent premature aging and sun damage.

Cuticle Care: Nourish and moisturize your cuticles regularly with cuticle oil or cream to maintain healthy, neat-looking nails.

Exfoliation: Incorporate gentle exfoliation once or twice a week to remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother hands.

Wear Gloves: Protect your hands from harsh chemicals, cold weather, or household chores by wearing gloves to maintain their softness.

Balanced Diet: Consume a diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants to promote overall skin health, benefiting your hands as well.

Stay Hydrated: Drink enough water daily to keep your skin, including your hands, properly hydrated from the inside out.

Avoid Harsh Soaps: Steer clear of harsh soaps or sanitizers that may dry out your hands excessively, causing irritation.

Until next time jellybeans <3

- 젤리

[hollowknighthelp]

Hello, been a bit :]

I'm at 110%!

Thr last things to finish are the Patheon of the Knight (working through it), and the Trial of the Fool

Do you have any advice for the latter? /genq

Hello again!

But ough, the Colosseum trials are the one combat thing that I struggle to give tips for </3

I'll do my best, though!!

The good thing, at least, is that you should have lots of practice with God Tamer at this point. The real issue is just getting to her!

(Though if you're concerned about her fight, you could always practice against her in the Hall of Gods!)

I don't know how applicable this'll be to the Trial of the Fool specifically, but if you're in a situation where the arena has not been altered and there's only a Shielded Fool left on the field, I believe you can continuously safely Dream Nail it for SOUL and heal, if you're careful? So you can use it to get back to full health and full SOUL before moving onto the next wave.

In the section with the Death Loodles, I believe I would just stay under the middle platform at the bottom and wait for them to come near me. You might also be able to Dream Nail them there and heal up?

In the section where you don't have much space to move and Garpedes are moving vertically, remember to Dream Nail them if you aren't full on SOUL! And you might have time to heal one mask at a time, but I'm not certain.

What's by far my personal least favourite part of the trial is the section where the floor is entirely spikes and you're forced to cling to the wall while fighting against flying enemies. You can oneshot the Armoured Squits with one Great Slash (or Dash Slash), or with one Shade Soul if you have Shaman Stone equipped!

Let me know if there are any other specific sections you want advice for, though!

Remember that Shade Soul goes through walls, and thus will also go through the platforms!

As for Charms... I'm honestly not too sure. Really, any sort of typical generic battle build should work, I think. Obviously, Unbreakable Strength and Shaman Stone are basically always good, so they're gonna be good here too. Same goes for Quick Slash, and Mark of Pride could likely also be useful. I could see Nailmaster's Glory being helpful if you decide to make use of Nail Arts! Dream Wielder could also be good, for that faster Dream Nailing speed and increase in SOUL gain. And Grubsong might be useful as well?

Not sure how much it'll help, but beneath the cut, I'm gonna list all the non-boss enemies that appear in the trial and the number of hits it takes to kill them from various sources!

These numbers are also assuming that Unbreakable Strength and Shaman Stone are equipped.

----------

Note that when talking about Shade Soul, potential double hits are not taken into account.

Finally, also note that Great Slash and Dash Slash deal the same amount of damage, so whatever I say for Great Slash also applies to Dash Slash.

Heavy Fool: 90 health. 3 nail hits, 3 Shade Souls, or 2 Great Slashes

Sturdy Fool: 80 health. 3 nail hits, 2 Shade Souls, 2 Great Slashes

Armoured Squit: 40 health. 2 nail hits, 1 Shade Soul, 1 Great Slash

Shielded Fool: 65 health. 3 nail hits, 2 Shade Souls, 2 Great Slashes

Primal Aspid: 35 health. 2 nail hits, 1 Shade Soul, 1 Great Slash

Winged Fool: 70 health. 3 nail hits, 2 Shade Souls, 2 Great Slashes

Sharp Baldur: 65 health. 3 nail hits, 2 Shade Souls, 2 Great Slashes

Battle Obble: 70 health. 3 nail hits, 2 Shade Souls, 2 Great Slashes

Furious Vengefly: 40 health. 2 nail hits, 1 Shade Soul, 1 Great Slash

Death Loodle: 45 health. 2 nail hits, 2 Shade Souls, 1 Great Slash

Mantis Traitor: 74 health. 3 nail hits, 2 Shade Souls, 2 Great Slashes

Mantis Petra: 45 health. 2 nail hits, 2 Shade Souls, 1 Great Slash

Soul Twister: 35 health. 2 nail hits, 1 Shade Soul, 1 Great Slash

Mistake and Folly: 13 health. 1 nail hit

Volt Twister: 80 health. 3 nail hits, 2 Shade Souls, 2 Great Slashes

Lesser Mawlek: 60 health. 2 nail hits, 2 Shade Souls, 2 Great Slashes

- One nail hit with the Pure Nail and Fragile/Unbreakable Strength deals 31.5 damage (unsure if it rounds up or down, 21 without Strength)

- One Shade Soul with Shaman Stone deals 40 damage (30 without Shaman Stone)

- One Great Slash (or Dash Slash) deals 52 damage (unaffected by Fragile/Unbreakable Strength)

[izoatefashion]

Star-Spangled Chic – Independence Day Nail Art with a 3D Twist

Let your patriotism sparkle with this bold and modern Fourth of July manicure. These nails fuse a minimalist nude base with sharply defined red and blue stripes, hand-painted stars, and a standout silver 3D star embellishment. It’s a look that feels editorial yet celebratory—perfect for fireworks, parades, or just making a stylish statement all weekend long.

Star-Spangled Chic – Independence Day Nail Art with a 3D Twist

Let your patriotism sparkle with this bold and modern Fourth of July manicure. These nails fuse a minimalist nude base with sharply defined red and blue stripes, hand-painted stars, and a standout silver 3D star embellishment. It’s a look that feels editorial yet celebratory—perfect for fireworks, parades, or just making a stylish statement all weekend long.

Step 1: Prep and Prime

Start with clean, filed nails. Gently push back the cuticles and buff the surface for smooth application. Apply a thin base coat and cure (if gel) or let dry completely.

⸻

Step 2: Nude Base Layer

Apply 1–2 coats of a sheer nude polish. This creates the perfect background for your graphic lines and keeps the look sleek. Cure or dry thoroughly between coats.

⸻

Step 3: Diagonal Stripes

Using a striping brush or tape, paint crisp diagonal red and blue lines from tip to cuticle on alternate nails. For best results, cure one color before layering the next to avoid smudging.

⸻

Step 4: Stars and Detail Work

On one or two accent nails, use a fine nail art brush or dotting tool to create small white stars on a navy background—or over the nude base if you prefer minimal contrast. A nail art stamp or stencil can also work if you want more precision.

⸻

Step 5: 3D Star Embellishment

Select one feature nail (typically the ring finger) and apply a small dot of nail glue or builder gel at the center. Press your 3D silver star charm gently onto the nail and hold for a few seconds. Cure under a lamp if needed.

⸻

Step 6: Seal the Look

Finish with a thick, glossy top coat over all nails to seal in the artwork and smooth out any texture from the striping or stars. Avoid applying top coat over the 3D star to preserve its shine and dimension. Cure or air-dry fully.

[gtownapts]

Aesthetic Tikki Mehndi Design – Timeless Beauty with a Modern Twist

Mehndi has always been an essential part of traditional Indian and Middle Eastern cultures. Among the many styles and motifs, Tikki Mehndi Design stands out for its simplicity and charm. In recent years, the classic tikki has been reimagined into aesthetic tikki mehndi designs that combine elegance with modern creativity. These designs are perfect for minimalistic brides, festive celebrations, or everyday styling.

What is Tikki Mehndi Design?

Tikki mehndi, also known as round mehndi design, is centered around a circular motif drawn in the palm. This simple pattern is often surrounded by intricate detailing, floral elements, or mandala-inspired art. It's a timeless design that's easy to apply and suits all occasions.

Features of Aesthetic Tikki Mehndi Designs

Modern aesthetic tikki mehndi blends traditional patterns with artistic flair. Here are the key features:

Minimalist Circles: Clean, round tikki designs that serve as the focal point.

Floral and Leafy Motifs: Enhances the beauty of the central tikki with nature-inspired elements.

Mandala Details: Symmetrical patterns that radiate from the center for a spiritual and artistic feel.

Finger Detailing: Often, fingers are adorned with fine lines, dots, and vines to complement the center tikki.

Negative Space: Smart use of empty space to give a contemporary, breathable look.

Why Choose Aesthetic Tikki Mehndi?

✅ Quick Application – Ideal for those who want elegant mehndi without hours of application.

✅ Elegant and Classy – Looks beautiful on all skin tones and outfits.

✅ Perfect for Any Occasion – Suitable for weddings, Karva Chauth, Eid, Diwali, or casual get-togethers.

✅ Easy for Beginners – Great choice for self-application and DIY mehndi lovers.

Trending Aesthetic Tikki Designs

Here are a few popular tikki styles making waves in 2025: Design TypeDescriptionMandala TikkiIntricate mandala around the center circle for spiritual appeal.Floral TikkiPetal designs surrounding the circle, giving a blooming effect.Bold Tikki with VinesA thick tikki paired with leafy vines for a fuller look.Half-Tikki PatternA creative twist where the tikki is split with modern lines.Jewelry-Inspired TikkiDesigned to mimic finger rings or bracelets.

Tips to Make It Look More Aesthetic

Use a fine-tipped cone for precision.

Maintain symmetry to keep it visually balanced.

Combine with nail art or bindi dots for a coordinated look.

Allow the mehndi to dry naturally and apply lemon-sugar mix for darker stain.

Final Thoughts

Aesthetic tikki mehndi designs offer the perfect blend of tradition and trend. Whether you prefer minimal designs or detailed patterns, tikki mehndi has a graceful charm that never goes out of style. Add this simple yet stunning design to your next festive look and watch the compliments roll in!

[advertisingoperationsmaster]

Top Nail Trends of the Past 3 Years

As a nail artist with years of experience in the custom manicure industry, I’ve recently been analyzing global nail trend data. Over the past three years, nail fashion has evolved by blending timeless elements with refreshing innovations. Below are the top 5 trends worth watching to help you stay effortlessly stylish at your fingertips.

1. “Liquid Metal” Gradient Effect

One of the hottest trends right now is this futuristic liquid metal gradient design. Unlike traditional solid metallic nails, today’s nail artists favor special gels that create a smooth, liquid-like transition from the tip to the nail bed. Rose gold paired with silver is a favorite among office professionals, while Gen Z prefers bold neon metallic gradient combos. Wondering how long custom nails last?

Pro Tip: Use a base gel with micro-glitter particles to enhance the 3D look. However, be cautious—metallic polishes tend to highlight surface imperfections, so make sure to prep and buff the nails thoroughly.

2. 3D Miniature Sculptural Art

Since late last year, the nail world has been swept by a “mini sculpture” craze. The most popular designs include:

Floating pearl chains on clear nail beds

Hand-sculpted miniature flowers using UV gel (especially daisies and orchids)

Abstract geometric 3D structures

Lisa Chen, a top nail artist in Los Angeles, told me: “This style demands a high level of spatial artistry from technicians, but clients are willing to pay a premium for these one-of-a-kind wearable artworks.”

3. Eco-Friendly “Breathable Nails”

As sustainability becomes a bigger priority, detachable magnetic nail sets are gaining popularity among eco-conscious consumers. The third-generation version, released this year, offers:

✓ Flexibility similar to natural nails ✓ Quick 15-second switch using magnetic technology ✓ Reusable materials that last over 30 applications

A survey at the Paris Nail Expo revealed a 240% year-on-year sales increase among women aged 25–35. Need help choosing the right solid color manicure for yourself?

4. Smart Color-Changing Nails

The fusion of beauty and technology is creating exciting innovations. The newest thermal ink formulations can:

Shift through color gradients between 26°C and 38°C

Display UV warning stripes under sunlight

Enable users to customize color changes via mobile app

Beauty blogger @TechNails reviewed it saying: “It’s like mood rings for your nails—especially fun on dates!”

5. Modern Chinese-Inspired “Ink Painting” Nails

Eastern aesthetics continue to thrive, but this year they're interpreted with a modern twist:

Negative space painting techniques that decorate only parts of the nail

Realistic ink-wash effects via digital printing

A blend of traditional patterns and minimalist linework

Trend Forecast: Based on Google search data, “programmable LED nails” and “self-healing gels” could be the next big thing. Stay tuned for cutting-edge innovations at New York Nail Week in September. Want to try classic designs first? Here are 5 basic nail art styles to get you started.

No matter which style you choose, always consider your natural nail shape and lifestyle. After all, the best nail art is the one that resonates perfectly with your personality.

Thank you for watching. We hope this has helped solve the problem you encountered. Though small, nail art has the power to brighten your every day. Start with the basics and let your fingertips be the first step to charm and confidence! For regular updates on nail trends, design inspiration, and professional nail care tips, don’t forget to follow Nailelf!

If you’re interested in learning more about [The New Trend in Nail Art: DIY Your Way to Fingertip Fashion], click to read.

[headmasters-23]

Polish Your Look: Discover the Best Nail Salon and Nail Art Services in Ludhiana

Your nails are a canvas, a subtle yet powerful way to express your personal style. Whether you prefer a classic, polished look or intricate, eye-catching designs, finding the right place for your nail care is essential. If you’re searching for the nail salon in Ludhiana or exquisite nail art services in Ludhiana, look no further! We’re here to introduce you to a haven of nail perfection at Headmasters Salon.

The Importance of Professional Nail Care

While at-home manicures can be a relaxing ritual, professional nail care offers numerous advantages:

Expertise and Precision: Trained nail technicians possess the skills and knowledge to shape, buff, and care for your nails with precision, ensuring a flawless and long-lasting manicure or pedicure. They understand different nail types and can address specific concerns like brittleness or dryness.

High-Quality Products: Salons use professional-grade polishes, gels, and other products that are often more durable and offer a wider range of colors and finishes than those available for home use.

Hygiene and Safety: Reputable salons adhere to strict hygiene standards, using sterilized tools and proper techniques to prevent infections and ensure a safe experience.

Relaxation and Pampering: A visit to a nail salon is an opportunity to relax, unwind, and enjoy a bit of pampering. Many salons offer additional services like hand massages and cuticle treatments for a truly indulgent experience.

Intricate Nail Artistry: Achieving complex and detailed nail art designs at home can be challenging. Professional nail artists have the tools, skills, and creativity to bring your most imaginative nail art ideas to life.

Headmasters Ludhiana: Your Destination for Stunning Nail Art and Care

When it comes to exceptional nail art services in Ludhiana and a top-tier nail salon in Ludhiana, Headmasters Salon is a name that shines. Their dedicated team of skilled nail technicians and artists are passionate about creating beautiful and healthy nails for every client. They understand that your nails are an extension of your personality and offer a wide array of services to cater to your individual style and preferences.

At Headmasters, you can indulge in a comprehensive range of nail services, including:

1. Classic Manicures and Pedicures:

Providing meticulous care for your hands and feet, including shaping, cuticle work, massage, and polish application. Whether you prefer a timeless French manicure or a bold, single color, their technicians ensure a flawless finish.

2. Gel Manicures and Pedicures:

Offering long-lasting, chip-resistant color that can last for weeks. Gel polishes provide a durable and glossy finish, perfect for those who want a manicure that can withstand daily wear and tear.

3. Acrylic and Nail Extensions:

For those who desire longer or stronger nails, their technicians expertly apply acrylic extensions, creating the perfect base for stunning nail art or a simple, elegant look.

4. Intricate Nail Art Designs:

This is where their artistic flair truly comes to life. From delicate floral patterns and geometric designs to trendy ombre effects and sparkling glitter accents, their nail artists can create bespoke designs that reflect your unique style. Imagine showcasing miniature works of art on your fingertips!

5. 3D Nail Art:

Adding texture and dimension to your nails with raised designs, embellishments, and charms for a truly eye-catching and unique look.

6. French Nail Art Variations:

Putting a modern twist on the classic French manicure with different color combinations, glitter accents, or unique tip shapes.

7. Ombre and Gradient Nails:

Creating a seamless blend of colors for a soft and stylish effect.

8. Themed Nail Art:

Perfect for special occasions or expressing your current mood, from festive holiday designs to intricate character art.

Why Headmasters Stands Out as the Best Nail Salon in Ludhiana

What makes Headmasters Salon the nail salon in Ludhiana for your nail care needs?

Highly Skilled and Creative Technicians: Their team is composed of experienced and passionate nail technicians who are dedicated to providing exceptional service and stunning results. Their nail artists stay up-to-date with the latest trends and techniques in nail art services in Ludhiana.

Premium Quality Products: They use only high-quality polishes, gels, acrylics, and nail art supplies from reputable brands to ensure long-lasting wear and vibrant colors.

Focus on Hygiene and Safety: Your well-being is their priority. They maintain stringent hygiene standards, using sterilized tools and disposable items whenever possible.

Personalized Consultations: They take the time to understand your preferences and offer expert advice to help you choose the perfect nail look.

Relaxing and Comfortable Atmosphere: Enjoy a pampering experience in their clean and welcoming salon environment.

Commitment to Customer Satisfaction: They strive to exceed your expectations and ensure you leave with nails you’ll love to show off.

Book Your Nail Transformation Today!

Ready to elevate your style with beautiful and expertly crafted nails? Visit Headmasters Salon’s nail services page to explore their extensive range of nail art services in Ludhiana and book your appointment at the nail salon in Ludhiana. Treat yourself to the ultimate nail care experience and let their talented team create a look that perfectly complements your individuality. Your journey to flawless and fabulous nails starts at Headmasters!

[nail-artists]

The Beauty of Light Nail Colors: A Chic and Timeless Choice

Light manicure colors have long been a favorite among beauty fans when it comes to nail trends. Soft, pastel colors may easily enhance your nails, whether you're going for a delicate, sophisticated look or a light, airy style. Light manicure colors, such as pastel pinks, delicate lilacs, and creamy nudes, provide beauty and suitability for every occasion.

Why Choose Light Nail Colors?

Timeless Elegance: Light hues are ideal for weddings, formal occasions, and daily wear since they express smoothness and class.

Versatile and Complementary: Many people choose these colors because they go well with both elegant and casual ensembles.

Suitable for Every Skin Tone Light skin tones highlight your natural attractiveness, regardless of your skin tone—fair, medium, or deep.

Ideal for Any Season: Gentle neutrals like grey and white look beautiful all year round, but pastels are most striking in the spring and summer.

Low Maintenance: Brighter colors maintain their fresh appearance longer than darker ones, which can draw attention to chipping and flaws.

Top Light Nail Colors to Try

Soft Pink – A feminine and classic choice that never goes out of style.

Sheer Nude – The perfect minimalist shade for a clean and polished look.

Pastel Blue – A soft yet playful color that’s ideal for any season.

Lavender – A dreamy and romantic hue that adds a touch of charm.

Milky White – A chic alternative to bold whites, offering a more natural effect.

Peachy Tones – Warm and inviting, perfect for adding a subtle pop of color.

Baby Yellow – A unique and cheerful shade that provides a sunny, uplifting feel.

Mint Green – A refreshing pastel that embodies calmness and serenity.

Pearlized Ivory – A sophisticated choice that adds an extra touch of luxury.

How to Choose the Right Light Nail Color for You

Selecting the perfect shade depends on your skin tone, personal style, and occasion.

Fair Skin: Soft pinks, light lavenders, and sheer nudes enhance a delicate and refined look.

Medium Skin: Peachy tones, pastels like mint green, and baby yellow bring warmth and vibrancy.

Dark Skin: Milky whites, pearlized ivory, and pastel blues create a striking contrast that stands out beautifully.

Tips for Applying Light Nail Colors

Use a Base Coat – This helps prevent staining and extends the longevity of your manicure.

Apply Thin Layers – Multiple thin layers provide a smooth, streak-free finish.

Choose High-Quality Polishes – Investing in a good formula ensures long-lasting wear and vibrant color.

Finish with a Top Coat – Sealing your polish with a top coat adds shine and protection against chipping.

Hydrate Your Nails – Keep your cuticles moisturized for a healthy, well-groomed appearance.

Get the Best Light Nail Colors at NailArtists.com!

Looking to upgrade your nail game? At NailArtists.com, we offer a curated selection of high-quality nail polishes in the most stunning light shades. Our collection is designed to provide long-lasting wear, easy application, and a flawless finish.

Why Shop With Us? Wide range of trendy and classic colors High-quality, chip-resistant formulas Cruelty-free and vegan-friendly options  Fast and reliable shipping Exclusive seasonal collections and limited-edition shades

Light Nail Colors for Every Occasion

Everyday Wear: Sheer nudes, soft pinks, and milky whites keep it simple and elegant.

Office-Friendly Shades: Neutral beige, pearlized ivory, and pastel blues maintain a professional yet stylish look.

Bridal & Special Events: Soft peach, lavender, and baby yellow offer a romantic and dreamy aesthetic.

Summer & Spring Vibes: Mint green, pastel blue, and peachy tones bring a fresh and playful feel.

Winter Chic: Icy whites, pearlized shades, and soft lilacs provide a cool, elegant appeal.

Anyone who appreciates style, flexibility, and low-maintenance beauty must have light nail colors. There is a shading to suit every taste, whether you want a playful pastel burst or a classic nude look. Explore the huge inventory at NailArtists.com to up your nail game and discover your ideal match right now!

[proreviewpage]

Ladies, let’s talk nails! If you’ve ever envied the perfectly polished fingers of celebrities or Instagram influencers, it’s time to treat yourself. Artificial nails are the ultimate beauty hack to elevate your style and give your hands the flawless finish they deserve. Whether you’re heading to a wedding, a night out, or just want to feel fabulous every day, artificial nails are your go-to accessory.

Why choose artificial nails? First, they’re versatile. From classy French tips to bold, glittery statement nails, there’s a design for every occasion. Love intricate patterns but lack the time to visit a nail artist? Pre-designed artificial nails make it easy to get salon-quality results in minutes. Plus, they come in all shapes, lengths, and styles, allowing you to express your personality effortlessly.

"Love Nails" generally receives positive feedback, with users praising their good quality nail polish selection, including a clean and organized colour range and friendly service at their salons.

 Positive aspects:

Wide variety of quality nail polish colours

Good selection of brands 

Friendly staff

Decent pricing

Day Theme Fake Nails: You will get 24 romantic-style nails, don't worry about the wrong size, our fake nails come in 12 sizes for you to choose from These romantic-style fake nails are beautiful and simple, making them the perfect gift for a girlfriend, wife or friend. In the festival to enhance their charm, add to the atmosphere of the solar term.

Artificial nails aren’t just about looks—they’re convenient too. No more worrying about chips or smudges right after painting your nails. These beauties are durable, long-lasting, and perfect for busy women who want to look their best without spending hours in the salon. And the best part? You can swap out designs as often as you like, keeping your style fresh and exciting.

Worried about the application? Don’t be! With easy-to-use adhesive tabs or glue, you can achieve a professional look right at home. It’s simple, quick, and affordable. Artificial nails are not just a trend—they’re a lifestyle upgrade.

So, why wait? Step up your nail game and add that extra sparkle to your life. Shop for your favourite designs today and let your hands do the talking. Trust us, you’ll be turning heads wherever you go!

Click the link to buy.

[bearorientalrugs]

Stain Prevention for Area Rugs: A Complete Guide

Area rugs add charm and warmth to any space, but they are also magnets for stains and spills. Whether you have kids, pets, or frequent guests, keeping your rugs pristine can feel like a challenge. Fortunately, with the right techniques, you can protect your area rugs and maintain their beauty for years. Here’s how to effectively prevent stains and keep your rugs looking like new.

1. Choose the Right Rug Material

The type of material your rug is made from plays a significant role in its stain resistance. Consider these options:

Wool: Naturally durable and resistant to stains due to its dense fibers.

Synthetic Fibers: Materials like nylon or polypropylene are excellent for high-traffic areas and are easy to clean.

Cotton or Jute: While stylish, these materials are more prone to stains and may require additional care.

2. Use a Rug Pad

Rug pads aren’t just for cushioning; they also prevent spills from seeping through to your floors. A quality rug pad acts as a barrier and makes cleaning up messes easier.

3. Apply a Stain Protector

Treat your area rugs with a stain-resistant spray. Products like Scotchgard form a protective barrier, making it harder for spills to penetrate the fibers. Ensure the product is safe for your rug’s material before application.

4. Enforce a No-Shoes Policy

Shoes track dirt, mud, and other contaminants that can stain your rugs. Encourage family and guests to remove their shoes before stepping on your area rugs to minimize grime.

5. Clean Spills Immediately

The sooner you address a spill, the less likely it is to become a permanent stain. Here’s a simple cleaning method:

Blot the spill with a clean, dry cloth (never rub).

Use a mixture of mild dish soap and water to gently lift the stain.

Rinse with a damp cloth and let the area air dry.

6. Rotate Your Rugs Regularly

Rotating your rugs every few months prevents uneven wear and helps avoid discoloration from sunlight or heavy foot traffic.

7. Vacuum Frequently

Regular vacuuming removes dirt and debris that can get ground into the rug’s fibers. Use a vacuum with a gentle setting to avoid damaging delicate materials.

8. Invest in Professional Cleaning

Deep cleaning by a professional once or twice a year is crucial for stain prevention. Experts have the tools and expertise to remove embedded dirt and restore your rug’s vibrancy.

9. Keep Food and Drinks Away

To reduce the chances of spills, designate dining areas away from rugs. If you enjoy eating in spaces with rugs, use washable covers or trays to catch potential messes.

10. Train Pets

If you have pets, ensure they’re house-trained to avoid accidents on your rugs. Keep pet nails trimmed to prevent snags and use pet-safe cleaners to tackle any messes immediately.

Conclusion

Stain prevention for area rugs doesn’t have to be complicated. By choosing the right materials, applying protective treatments, and practicing regular maintenance, you can extend the life of your rugs and keep them looking fresh. With these tips, your area rugs will remain a beautiful centerpiece in your home for years to come.

[colorbar1]

Best Colorbar Products Under ₹1,000 for Budget-Friendly Holiday Gifts

The gifting season in India is here! With engagements, weddings, Christmas, and New Year celebrations around the corner, finding thoughtful gifts that don't poke a hole in your pocket can be challenging. Whether it's for your best friend’s wedding or a secret Santa celebration, gifts that are both useful and glamorous are always popular. Colorbar, a reputable cosmetics brand, provides high-quality products at affordable prices.

If you’re looking to impress with budget-friendly gifts, we’ve curated a list of six amazing Colorbar products under ₹1,000 that are perfect for every occasion. Let’s dive in!

Why Cosmetic Products Make for Good Gifting Options

Universal Appeal Makeup products have universal charm. From beauty enthusiasts to makeup novices, everyone appreciates a touch of glamour. Cosmetics are versatile gifts that fit seamlessly into every personality and style.

Practical and Thoughtful Unlike many gifts that collect dust, makeup products are practical. It’s a thoughtful gesture that shows you’ve put effort into selecting something meaningful.

Affordable Luxury With brands like Colorbar, you can gift luxury without spending a fortune. Their products combine quality and affordability, making them ideal for gifting.

Personalisation The vast variety of shades, textures, and finishes in cosmetics ensures you can choose something unique for every recipient.

Now that we’ve established why makeup makes for excellent gifts, let’s explore six standout products from Colorbar that you can snag for under ₹1,000.

6 Colorbar Products Under ₹1,000 That Make for Perfect Gifts

Powerkiss Matte Lipstick

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Price - ₹ 799

For the lipstick lover in your life, Colorbar’s Powerkiss Matte Lipstick is an unbeatable choice. With its lightweight, velvety formula, it glides on effortlessly, delivering intense color in a single swipe. Its smudge-proof and non-drying texture ensures long-lasting wear, perfect for weddings or New Year celebrations. Available in 12 shades, this Colorbar lipstick suits all complexions and occasions

2. 24Hrs Weightless Liquid Foundation

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Price - ₹ 959

Every makeup look starts with a flawless base, and this foundation delivers just that. The 24Hrs Weightless Liquid Foundation offers medium to full coverage while feeling featherlight on the skin. Its oil-free formula suits all skin types, providing a natural finish that lasts all day. Whether it’s for a busy bride or someone prepping for a Christmas brunch, this Colorbar foundation is a gift they’ll ador

3. Perfect Match Primer

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Price - ₹ 760

A primer is the first step of your makeup routine. The Perfect Match Primer by Colorbar creates a smooth canvas for makeup application, blurring imperfections and minimising pores. Its lightweight, silicone-based formula ensures makeup stays put for hours. The silky texture and oil-free finish of this Colorbar primer make it ideal for all skin types, making it a thoughtful and practical gift.

4. Vegan Nail Lacquer

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Price - ₹ 225

Add a pop of color to someone’s life with Vegan Nail Lacquer. Featuring a chip-resistant formula, this Colorbar nail paint offers a salon-like finish that lasts for days. With more than a hundred vibrant and muted shades, it caters to every style. Plus, its vegan and cruelty-free formula makes it a guilt-free indulgence for environmentally conscious recipients.

5. I-Glide Magic Eye Pencil (Kajal)

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Price - ₹ 750

I-Glide Magic Eye Pencil is an award-winning kajal that delivers intense pigmentation in just one stroke. Smudge-proof and long-lasting, it’s perfect for both bold and subtle eye looks. Whether you want to give this to your BFF bride or secretly gift your colleague a secret Santa celebration, this Colorbar Kajal provides an effortless charm.

6. Wink With Love 14Hrs Stay Eyeliner

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Price - ₹ 999

For precision and drama, the Wink With Love 14Hrs Stay Eyeliner is a winner. Its fine-tip applicator allows for perfect winged lines, while its waterproof formula ensures it stays intact all day. Ideal for party-ready eyes, this Colorbar eyeliner makes an excellent gift for anyone who loves experimenting with their look.

NOTE: While makeup makes for an excellent gift option, it is important to mention that the makeup shade and formulation depend on your skin type (dry, oily, T-shaped, and sensitive), skin tone (fair, medium, olive, and dark), and skin undertone (cool and warm). If you are planning to buy a makeup item, ensure you know all skin types, tones, and undertones of the recipient.

Conclusion

Gifting doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With these six Colorbar products under ₹1,000, you can surprise your loved ones with thoughtful, high-quality gifts that bring a smile to their faces. Each product combines practicality with a touch of luxury, making them ideal for this festive season.

So, whether you’re shopping for your best friend, sister, or colleague, these budget-friendly finds are sure to impress. Visit Colorbar today and elevate your gifting game without stretching your wallet!

[izoatefashion]

Cherry Kiss Glitter Nails with 3D Bows

This look is unapologetically bold and feminine. Bubblegum-pink glitter creates a dazzling base on alternating nails, while high-gloss red polish adds drama and contrast. The standout? Adorable 3D red bow accents that tie it all together—literally. Perfect for birthdays, Valentine’s vibes, or whenever you want your nails to be the outfit.

Step-by-Step Process

Step 1: Nail Prep is Key

Start with clean, dry nails. Push back your cuticles gently using a cuticle pusher, then shape the nails with a file into a rounded almond shape (as shown in the design). Lightly buff the surface of each nail to remove shine — this helps the polish adhere better.

⸻

Step 2: Apply the Base Coat

Apply a thin layer of base coat on each nail. Cure under a UV/LED lamp according to the product’s instructions (usually around 30–60 seconds). This protects your natural nails and sets the foundation for a smooth application.

⸻

Step 3: Cherry Red Polish Application

Select 2–3 nails per hand (typically the middle and ring fingers) for the solid color. Apply one thin coat of cherry red gel polish. Cure. Then apply a second coat for full opacity and cure again. You want a glossy, bold red that stands out next to the glitter.

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Step 4: Pink Glitter Polish or Loose Glitter

For the glitter nails, use either:

• A pre-mixed pink glitter gel polish

OR

• Apply a clear gel coat and press loose glitter into the wet layer using a brush or fingertip.

If you’re using loose glitter:

1. Apply a clear gel layer without curing.

2. Sprinkle or pat the pink glitter on using a small nail brush.

3. Cure under the lamp.

4. Repeat if necessary to build up intensity.

Make sure to smooth out the texture slightly before the next step to prevent bulkiness.

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Step 5: Apply the 3D Bow Charms

Once the glitter layer is cured, place a small dot of nail glue or builder gel where you want the bow (usually the center near the base or tip of the glitter nail). Place the red 3D bow gently onto the glue using tweezers or a dotting tool.

Cure again if you’re using gel to secure the charm in place.

Pro Tip: Use only one or two bows per hand to keep the look balanced and elegant rather than overdone.

⸻

Step 6: Seal It with a Top Coat

Apply a generous layer of gel top coat over the glitter and red nails — avoiding the 3D bow directly if it’s made of plastic or resin (as top coat can dull the charm’s finish).

Cure under the lamp for the final time.

If the glitter feels slightly textured, you can apply a second layer of top coat for a smoother finish.

⸻

Step 7: Final Touch

Wipe off any sticky residue left by the gel top coat using a lint-free pad soaked in isopropyl alcohol. Then, apply cuticle oil around the nail beds for a polished finish.

⸻

Pro Styling Tip:

This design pairs beautifully with romantic outfits — think sheer pink blouses, cherry-toned lips, or heart-shaped accessories. It’s perfect for a date night, special event, or even a stylish Valentine’s Day look.