#Nic is doing amazing though

[emilykaldwen]

the friendship break up hurts, I totally get it, and it was big of Eloise to tell her that she was too hard on herself. But also I think it's really important that you know what? sometimes there's fuck ups you can't come back from, and actions have consequences. Because the whole Whistledown plot says a lot about pen's character and there needs to be long lasting fallout from that. Because it's not just Eloise Pen hurt, Pen hurts and continues to fucking hurt so many people.

[thepitlanepress]

I DON'T LIKE IT –

↳ lando norris + bestfriend!reader

⌗ :: masterlist

⌗ :: a/n: im actually in a lando phase (maybe its bc i f1 is gone for months) but its effecting me so much so im blessing you all with JEALOUS/POSSESSIVE LANDOOOO AHHEHE. merry christmas my lovelies <33 (also if this is bad im sorry i was extremely tired when i wrote this lol)

usually you don't like going out with lando. the clubs, partying, drinking it wasn't exactly your scene.

so when he insists you come out with him to celebrate the constructors championship, you can't exactly say no. hence, the short fitting black dress, and nicely done, hair and makeup that you've put on. when you go out, you go out, it just doesn't happen very often.

"are you nearly done?" lando's voice calls out from the living room as he waits for you.

"yeah, i'm coming now," you call back, walking down the stairs and mentally preparing yourself to talk and interact with people.

you grab the car keys off the small table in the hallway and make your way into the living room your footsteps announcing your presence to lando, he turns around and slightly falters in his movements when he sees you.

"uh, wow, okay," he says looking you up and down slowly, his eyes raking over your body.

"what?" your brows bunch and you look down at your outfit. "i thought it looked good, is there something wrong?"

"uh... no, no, you look amazing, i just wasn't expecting you to look so nic-"

"you weren't expecting me to look nice?" you raise your voice playfully.

"no, no, no i- uh- no- look... shit," lando mutters looking down and shaking his head. "you look amazing, seriously. i just forgot how well you can pull off a black dress."

you smile, and chuck the keys towards him, "i can pull off anything lando norris, even you. and that's not something everybody can do." you wink and walk back out through the hallway to the car.

"you can pull off me?"

"yeah, not every girl can have lando norris on her arm and still be the centre of attention. there are perks to being your best friend you know."

"and there are perks to being yours," lando says unlocking the car and sliding into the drivers seat. you feel the safest when he's driving, always trusting him when he's behind the wheel.

"oh really?" you ask looking over at him. "like what?"

"you," he murmurs backing out of the driveway. you don't hear him though, too distracted by a text you received from your sister.

–––

he didn't like it, you could tell. was it the murderous looks he was sending in the direction of the guy's - who's name you've already forgotten - or was it the looks he was sending you, heated and something else? both probably.

he wasn't even focused on the crowd around him dancing and drinking their nights away.

when the guy started getting too handsy that is when you felt lando's hand wrap around your waist and causing butterflies to erupt in your stomach - which you promptly ignored.

"leave her alone, mate. she's mine," lando's voice comes out harsh his anger directed towards the man who steps back apologising - typical of him to only step back when another man steps in.

"oh sorry, i didn't know," he slurs and walks off, most likely to go puke in some poor person's handbag.

you're about to spin around in lando's arms and thank him for rescuing you but you stop short at the expression on his face. "what?" you look down at your outfit. "is it the same thing from earlier? what's wrong?"

"i don't like it."

"don't like what?" you ask furrowing your brows.

"when other people touch you," he responds quietly his voice low and tempting. thats new.

"oh," you reply slightly dumbfounded. in all your years of knowing lando norris you've always had hidden feelings for him, sure there were points when said feelings were buried deep deep down, but they were always there.

and you always thought they were never reciprocated but they way lando is looking at you right now is... something new. something you like... a lot.

"i don't like people thinking they can just touch you. they can't. because you're mine not theirs. you're my best friend. you're my person. you're not theirs to touch or hold or flirt with, because you're mine."

his arms tighten around your waist as if he's expecting you to run away at any moment.

"oh my," you breathe. "i don't know what to say."

"tell me you feel the same way, tell me that i can be yours, because you're mine, and i'm not letting you go anytime soon."

"possessive are we?" you chuckle trying to diffuse the tension because he's probably drunk, he's going to wake up in the morning and apologise about this insisting he doesn't know what he was talking about and how sorry he was.

its happened so many times before.

your heart gets crushed every time. so you don't go out with him to avoid it.

but tonight this feels different.

"i haven't had a sip of alcohol tonight, this is the most clearheaded i've ever been in a long time... please talk to me."

"lando," you whisper. your heart is teetering on the edge of being shattered to pieces and finally telling the truth. you're walking a thin line between the two hoping to fall on the right side. "i don't want this to be like those other times when you wake up in the morning apologising for what you say."

"i never meant those apologies. i remember all those nights, i lied," he breathes swaying with you to the music. "i freaked out in the morning because you would always want to talk about what happened, and your face was always so distrusting so i shut it down pretending i didn't know what happened."

"really?" you're tilting on the line, swaying from side to side waiting for the words that are going to make or break you.

"really. i've been in love with you ever since the day you stopped to pick a flower that reminded you of me."

"lando," you give him a look. "that was like the second time we met."

"and i've been yours ever since." he smiles at you, his eyes filled with clear adoration, which quickly turns to a pissed off look when someone steps up behind you and asks for a dance. "piss off mate, we're clearly talking."

you smile and don't even bother to look back at the man, everything you've ever wanted is standing in front of you and offering himself on a platter for you. and you're tired, so tired of staying on the ledge between friends and more,

so you take the leap.

pulling him imperceptibly closer you wrap your arms around his neck and hug him tightly whispering in his ear, "i'm yours too."

you can physically feel his body relax and mold around yours - a perfect fit of course.

if you fall, it will hurt for sure, but this moment, right now; flying with him, together, will be worth it if you do.

2024 © thepitlanepress | please do not steal, use, translate or repost any of my works

[oldsoul007]

FwB

nicholas chavez x childhood bestfriend!reader

warning: kissing

Me and Nicholas had been inseparable since we were kids. Growing up in the same neighborhood, we shared countless adventures, secrets, and dreams. Our bond was unbreakable, and as we grew older, our friendship evolved into something deeper.

One summer evening, after a long day of reminiscing and laughter, we found themselves in a moment of vulnerability. The lines between friendship and something more began to blur, and we became friends with benefits. It was an unspoken agreement, a way to explore our feelings without risking their cherished friendship. No strings attached.

Nicholas, however, began to realize that his feelings for y/n were far more profound than he had ever admitted to himself.

One night as I finally finished up some work I get a text from Nicholas saying he’s coming over. Which initially means he needs to blow off some steam. I hear the knock at the door and open it up to Nicholas pulling me in for a heated kiss. He pushes me farther into my apartment kicking the door closed. We continue walking back him taking my shirt off as we reach my room. He kisses down my neck sending shivers down my spine. “God I love you” Nicholas groans as he continues kissing down my neck.

I blank for a moment checking if I just heard what I think I did. “What” “I love you” he repeats. “Nicholas” I say trying to get him to stop even though I didn’t want to. “Nicholas stop” he stops immediately looking up at me. “What’s wrong?” “We promised…we promised no strings attached Nic…” I say not daring to look him in the eyes.

Taking a deep breath, Nicholas confessed, "I love you, y/n. You can’t deny you don’t feel the same way. I know we've always been best friends, and I cherish that more than anything. But my feelings have grown into something much deeper. I can't keep pretending that I'm okay with just being friends with benefits. I want more. I want us to be together, truly together. I can't keep pretending that this is just casual for me."

My eyes widened, and i shook my head. "Nicholas, we agreed this was just for fun. I can't—"

"Why not?" Nicholas interrupted, frustration evident in his tone. "Why can't you let me love you? Why are you so afraid of this?"

I looked away, struggling to find the right words. "It's not that simple. I'm just not ready for that kind of commitment."

Nicholas stood up, pacing the room. "I don't understand, y/n. We've been so close, shared so much. Why can't you see that we could be amazing together?"

Tears welled up in my eyes. "I'm scared, Nicholas. I'm scared of getting hurt, of losing what we have."

Nicholas stopped and faced me, his expression a mix of anger and pain. "So you'd rather keep me at arm's length than take a chance on something real?"

My silence spoke volumes. Nicholas sighed, his shoulders sagging. "I just want you to know that my feelings are real. And I can't keep doing this if you don't feel the same."

With that, he turned and walked out, leaving me alone with my thoughts and the heavy weight of my own fears.

As sat on my bed, staring at my phone. Nicholas's words from our heated last conversation echoed in my mind.

I had been taken aback by his confession, unsure of how to respond at the moment. But now, as I replayed our moments together—the laughter, the support, the way he looked at me with genuine affection—I realized my feelings had grown deeper too.

Determined, I grabbed my coat and headed to Nicholas's apartment. When he opened the door, surprise flashed across his face.

"Y/n, what are you doing here?" he asked, his voice laced with concern.

I took a deep breath, my heart pounding. "Nicholas, I've been thinking a lot about what you said. And I realize now that I want more too. I don't want to just be friends with benefits anymore. I want to be with you."

Nicholas's eyes softened, and a smile slowly spread across his face. "Are you sure, y/n?"

I nodded, stepping closer. "I've never been more sure of anything. You've always been there for me, and I can't imagine my life without you."

He pulled me into a soft kiss and embrace, holding me tightly. "I've waited so long to hear you say that."



[roxygen22]

The Beautiful Boy Bus Stop Story was so cute! Would it be too much to ask for a part 2? The interactions between the pair was adorable! Love your stories. :)

Ask and ye shall receive! What do y'all think? Does it need a Part 3?

Bus Stop (Part 2)

Catch up on Part 1 here

Ever the gentleman, Nic held the door to the diner open for you. Once he stepped in after you, he scanned the room.

"Wow, it's like straight from a 50's TV show," he mused. Before you could respond, a voice rang out from the kitchen.

"Hey, [Y/N]! Have a seat, honey, and we'll be right with you," one of the servers called.

"Sooooo, do you come here often?" Nic joked as he followed you to your usual booth and sat across from you, facing away from the kitchen.

You shrugged and put on an innocent face. "Sometimes, I get tired of my own cooking." He didn’t need to know [yet] just how domestically challenged you were.

Cheryl, who often waited on you when you stopped by after work, appeared at the end of the table. "I was wondering if I would see you this week! And I see you brought a friend this time." She grinned and winked at you as she set down the menus in front of each of you. "What can I get you two to drink?"

You blushed at her lack of subtlety, hoping Nic wouldn't be put off. "I'll have a Coke."

"I'll just have some water, please," Nic responded politely.

"One water, one Coke, coming right up. I'll give you some time to look over the menu." As she stepped toward the kitchen, Cheryl turned on her heel and waved to get your attention. She pointed at Nic with one hand and signaled a thumbs up with the other. "Nice!" she mouthed.

You dropped your chin to hide the smile pulling at the corners of your lips. Luckily, Nic didn't seem to notice as he browsed the options. Not needing the menu, you took the chance to study his face up close. The way his dark hair curled into perfectly tousled ringlets. The light dusting of freckles across his cheekbones. The small scar just to the left of his no-

Your investigation was cut short when he set down the menu and looked back at you with those gorgeous eyes framed by lush lashes.

"So, uh, do you work downtown? I assumed since you're already on the southbound route when I get on the bus," he inquired.

You shook yourself from your stupor. "Oh, yes, I do. I'm a paralegal at Warner, Fitzgerald, and Associates. But, I'm studying to be a lawyer, though."

"A lawyer, huh? Impressive. How much lo-"

Before he could continue, Cheryl returned and set the drinks down on the table. "Alright, are we ready to order?" Nic gestured for you to speak first.

"I'll just have my usual," you said, handing the menu that you never opened back to her.

"And you, dear?" Cheryl asked, turning to Nic.

"I'll, uh, have the same." He flashed a smile at you before handing over his menu. "Thank you."

After Cheryl turned away, you leaned forward toward him. "You don't even know what my usual is."

Nic shrugged. "Perhaps not, but everything on the menu looked good."

You giggled and sat back. "Well, prepare to be amazed, then." He smiled that gorgeous smile in return that caused you to glitch again. Was there anything not perfect about this guy?

Realizing you were probably all but drooling at this point, you cleared your throat to break the brief awkward silence and regain your composure. "So what about you?"

"Hmm?" He tilted his head to the side like a confused puppy. An adorable one.

"Sorry. What do you do for work?" you clarified.

"I'm, uh...I'm a writer."

"You don't seem too sure about that, Nic," you teased, but then quickly froze, realizing that he probably wasn't yet ready for your brand of humor. To your relief, he chuckled and clasped his hands on the table.

"I am putting it out into the universe that I will be an accomplished author one day. But in the meantime, I am working downtown at the news station while I am going back to school."

"Back?" you ask curiously.

"Well, I didn't finish the first time due to some, uh, complications. I had to figure some things out about life first."

You could tell by the way Nic cast his eyes down to the table that there was more to the story than could be unpacked at present. Without thinking, you reached out and placed your hand on top of his.

"A winding road makes for a much more interesting story than the straight and narrow, Mr. Writer," you replied reassuringly.

Nic glanced up at you and half-smiled before looking down again at your hand. "I suppose you're right." He rotated one palm up to hold yours.

A tiny gasp escaped your lips. ::Is this really happening?:: you thought to yourself. Nic's thumb grazed your knuckles, leaving a trail of fire from his touch. Much to your chagrin, Cheryl cut the moment short by walking up with your plates. Nic cleared his throat and pulled back to make room on the table.

"Here we go," she announced. "Two open-faced cheeseburgers with a fried egg on top and a side of curly fries. Enjoy! I'll check on you again in a bit."

"Wow," Nic exclaimed. "Can't say I've ever had an egg on a burger before."

"Don't knock it 'til you've tried it," you responded before unabashedly taking a huge, ungraceful bite of your own burger, leaving a bit of mustard on the corner of your lip.

"You've, uh, got something right...," he paused to point at his own cheek to demonstrate.

"Oh!" You hurriedly grabbed your napkin to wipe it away, bringing attention to your deep blushing.

Nic laughed. "Hey, it's cool, it's cool! Now, where do I even start with this burger?" He joined the halves and brought it to his mouth, manfully taking a big bite to match yours. He chewed a moment before his face lit up. "Oh man!"

"See?! And you dared doubt me," you teased.

"I vow to never doubt you again." Nic locked eyes with you and blushed with his own admission. He laughed it off, and the two of you continued to chow down, occasionally taking a break to talk about classes, what the other likes to do for fun, and other enjoyable small talk.

Cheryl stopped by to check on you as you both picked at the last of your fries. "Can I get you two anything else? Maybe the usual milkshake?"

"Oh, no, I'm stuffed," you admitted.

"Maybe next time," Nic added as he retrieved his wallet.

::Next time?!:: Your heart raced. Cheryl picked up on it, too, and winked at you again when she returned his card.

Check closed, you and Nic slowly walked out of the diner. "I had fun tonight. Getting asked out on a date was not how I pictured today going, but I'm here for it," he said, hands in his pockets as he walked alongside you down the street toward your place.

"Same. While there was some premeditation on my part," you replied through a laugh, "I didn't dare speculate what would happen after I said hello."

"I'm glad you did. Say hello, I mean."

"Me, too." You slowed to a stop, forcing him to stop and turn back to you. "As much as I don't want this evening to end, this is my street." You jutted your thumb at the street sign at the intersection. "Will I see you on the bus tomorrow?" you asked, hope evident in your tone.

"I have a, uh, standing meeting after class on Wednesdays."

"Oh, right." You visibly deflated. "I forgot today is Tuesday, not Monday. You never get on the bus on my commute home on Wednesdays."

"You notice when I'm not there?" Nic asked in disbelief.

"Always." You smiled as you looked up into his eyes, following his movement as he stepped in closer.

"[Y/N]?" he breathed.

"Yes?"

"Can I kiss you?"

Masterlist

<><><><><>

Part 3

@croatianprincess @bluizh @groovy-lady @pmak2002

[thekhloediary]

Crave

Nicholas Chavez x Reader

Everyone has an indulgence, what’s yours?

I have really been enjoying writing again in my free time. This was something fun and smutty lol. Enjoy! - Khloe 💋

Have you ever found yourself wanting something so bad you just had to have it? Like a piece of candy or a decadent dessert that you just couldn’t resist? An indulgence so sweet it made you crave it?

For me, it wasn’t something, but rather someone. He was that bite of chocolate, that lick of frosting, that taste of ice cream melting on my tongue. He was my sweet craving. I thought of him often—what it would be like to touch him, feel him, taste him. I imagined him in every possible way. He was my daydream and my wet dream. It was nothing I wanted more than Nicholas.

But, imagining him just wasn’t enough anymore. I was longing for him. The craving had become a bit too strong, a bit too persistent. I had to feed it. I had to satisfy it.

I had to have him.

It was a Friday night, and I found myself on my couch, watching a movie with my friends. Well, at least I was supposed to be watching a movie. It played in the background, the smell of popcorn and sounds of laughter filling my living room, but my mind was elsewhere—lost in thoughts of him. How could I focus when he was right next to me? He made shorts and a t-shirt look good. So effortlessly sexy. And he smelled amazing. So fresh and inviting.

I sat beside Nicholas, my friend since college, eyeing him like he was the last slice of cake—delicious, coveted, and hard to resist. God, I wanted him. I had never wanted a man more. We had been friends for years, and I couldn’t pinpoint exactly when it happened, but somewhere along the way, I found myself wanting him in a way I hadn’t before. He had always been attractive, and within our friend group, we often joked about how he was the ‘hot’ friend. There was no shortage of females in his DMs or flirting with him whenever we were out. They all wanted him, and he knew it. He just didn’t know that I wanted him, too.

I had been feeling this way for so long, and I honestly didn’t know how I had managed to keep my desires hidden. Every time he was around, my mind raced with thoughts of him. He made me feel things he didn’t even realize. Like how I inhaled his scent whenever he gave me a hug, longing to stay in his embrace. How I watched his lips move when he talked, wondering how it would feel to kiss them. How wet I got when I touched myself, imagining it was him.

I wanted him so bad.

“Hey, Nic, do you mind getting me a blanket from the closet?” I asked as we sat together on my couch.

“Yea sure,” he answered easily and went to get it for me. My request for a blanket seemed like the most innocent thing to anyone unsuspecting, but I knew otherwise. I was overcome with an urge to touch him.

Nicholas returned a few moments later with a large, fluffy blanket. As he sat back down on the couch, I moved a little closer to him and draped the blanket over, putting my plan into action. I watched him as he went back to watching the movie, oblivious to what was about to come. A small smile teased my lips.

Ready.

It started with my hand brushing against him. He didn’t give much reaction, just a quick glance in my direction, as though maybe it had been accidental. But I knew it wasn’t, and soon he would know, too. It was a little secret I wanted to share—had to share. I moved my hand again, this time not so subtly, placing it on his thigh. He looked at me curiously, but he didn’t say anything. He didn’t stop me either.

Set.

I moved my hand up and down his thigh, and when he looked at me this time, there was no mistaking it. The way I was touching him, my intent was clear. Still, he didn’t say anything, but his gaze lingered in such a way that it felt like he was extending me an invitation to indulge. There was an amused smirk now, and if I didn’t know any better, I would say he was testing me, daring me to continue, wanting to know just how far I would take it.

Go.

Hidden under the blanket was my fantasy coming true. I had imagined this moment and now the feeling of him was real. I almost couldn’t believe I was doing this. My heart was beating a little faster now and my body was getting warmer. No, this wasn’t my imagination anymore. This was real. And when my hand disappeared into his shorts and I felt him, I knew just how real it was—and just how hard he was. With every touch, I could feel him growing harder beneath my palm. It was everything I wanted, but I needed more. So much more.

“Upstairs,” I whispered into his ear and rose from the couch, excusing myself from the movie. Nicholas left for the bathroom shortly after. I knew our friends would be suspicious of us both being gone, but that was something to deal with later because, right now, I had to have him.

I had pictured Nicholas in my bed so many times that the reality of this moment was almost surreal. Would he feel as good as I imagined? Would he taste as sweet? My pulse raced in excitement. I quickly undressed, and that was how he met me, wearing nothing but a smile.

“Damn…” Nicholas took all of me in. His eyes traveled up and down my body, no part of me going unnoticed. From the look in his eyes, he liked what he saw.

“All for you,” I teased, crawling onto my bed. When I was against my pillows, I leaned back and slowly spread my legs. I beckoned him over to me in a ‘come here’ motion.

He was my treat, but who said I couldn’t be his, too?

He had his shirt and shorts off in record time and climbed into bed with me. I eagerly straddled him, the anticipation high. He ran his hand down my body, pausing just for a second to ask me, “You sure you wanna do this?”

I had never been more sure about anything else. If only he knew the shameless amount of times I had already pictured this moment in my head. If only he knew how my pussy ached for him. I wanted him.

All of him.

I grabbed his hand and moved it down to feel my wetness. “I want you so bad. You feel how wet you make me, Nic?”

That was all the assurance he needed as his thumb brushed against my clit.

“So, downstairs on the couch?” he asked, teasing me now with small circles. “You like to play, huh?”

I bit my lip as a helpless sigh escaped me and nodded, the pleasure hitting me instantly.

“Well…” he moved his thumb a little faster. “Let’s play,”

He pulled me down to meet his lips while still strumming my clit. The heat rushed through me as he kissed me slowly. The way his lips and tongue consumed me was better than any kiss I could’ve imagined. I got lost, descending somewhere unknown, and then I felt his finger dip into me, sending me far beyond.

“Nic…mmm…fuck,” I moaned a little louder than I intended, completely forgetting our friends were still downstairs. The feeling was just so good I couldn’t contain myself. And then he inserted another finger. Oh God. His fingers moved in and out of me just right. Slow and steady to start the race, then the pace gradually increased to take me to the finish line.

And I was getting there fast.

He pumped harder and I was closer.

So close.

A little more, a little harder, a little more…

…and my body was trembling, wetness running down the length of his fingers. I watched as he brought his hand to his mouth and fed his hungry tongue with my juices. Fuck. It did something to me, and I was sure if I wasn’t already far gone, that would have taken me completely.

“You have no idea how long I’ve wanted this.” I told him breathlessly.

“Show me,”

He didn’t have to tell me twice. My lips kissed his neck, then trailed down his chest, and then to his perfectly defined abs. His body was like a dream. Too good to be true but so real in every way. God, he was so fucking hot. My hands reached the waistband of his black boxer briefs, and I looked up at him with a playful smile as I pulled them down. I felt like a kid in a candy store, eagerly awaiting a sugary treat. But it wasn’t a lollipop or a candy bar this time.

It was even better.

My fingertips danced along his length in slow, teasing touches, tracing the bulging lines of his veins, feeling his increasing hardness. He watched my hand as it slowly stroked up and down. The low groan that he let out was music to my ears. He was throbbing in my hand, so full, so ready. My eyes burned with desire. My mouth watered. All of my senses piqued. I couldn’t wait to taste him next.

I ran my tongue along the underside of his length in a long, slow lick. A sharp breath escaped him at the first touch of my tongue. Another lick, and I took him into my mouth. He tasted as good as I imagined he would. Like he was my favorite popsicle, I licked, sucked, and devoured him. He was my sweet treat. With each lick and the further I took him into my mouth, the pressure was building, and I could feel it in the way his muscles tensed, from the way his breathing increased, and the way he now looked at me with an intensity that set my core ablaze. I had Nicholas right where I wanted.

Time to blow his mind.

I moved back to my position on top of him. He held my hips as I lowered myself and took him in, watching as each inch slowly disappeared in me.

“Mmm,” I moaned, moving up and down. I started slowly, sliding up to the tip and then back down, clenching tightly around him as I did so.

“Fuck…” he let out a rough exhale. “You feel so good,”

And so did he. I was sure that nothing else could feel better than the feeling of him inside me, filling me completely. The pleasure was consuming me. I was in ecstasy, and from the sounds of his breaths, so was he. I had been wanting this, craving this, and now that I had it, I wasn’t letting up. I leaned forward, both hands on his chest, and got lost in the ride.

With each moment that passed, the pressure was building. The steady pace that I had built picked up, and I was riding him faster, harder—every one of my movements pulling a response from him. From the sounds he was making to the way he was gripping my thighs tightly, he was on the brink, teetering so very close to the edge.

And then, he made the sexiest sound I’d ever heard as he came.

Hard.

It was my undoing. I threw my head back and let the waves of pleasure drown me. After all the times I had imagined being with him, the real moment surpassed any fantasy I could have dreamed. The feeling was so good. And the fact that I had made Nicholas feel what I was feeling, was even better.

A craving worth satisfying.

“I hope you know,” I said as I slowly eased up from him. “That’s mine now.” I looked down with a satisfied smile.

Nicholas chuckled. “Don’t worry. You can have me, baby,”

Absolutely. Every chance I got.

[polycraftory]

Getting Started: Junk Journaling

So you want to get started with scrapbooking/junk journaling? This is a craft, like many others, that you can get started on with very little supplies! However, we'll get a little deeper into stuff as well for some additional tips and supplies that might be fun or helpful.

What You Absolutely Need

Scissors / Cutting Implements - If you can, buy a nicer pair of scissors for your own sanity, but any scissors will do starting out! Detail scissors specifically are really helpful. Exacto knives can also be helpful, but you'll also need a cutting mat if you don't already have one. This category is worth investing in because dull scissors are a nightmare.

Adhesive - ZipDry is designed for paper so it doesn't bleed through thin stuff and it dries quick and clear. Double sided tape rolls are also very helpful, especially with large areas or gluing a bunch of stuff quickly. This is an area worth investing in earlier! Thin paper and magazine paper will have bleed through with certain glues.

Notebook/Paper - Use what you have! If you, like me, have a million journals lying around, use that! As you get deeper in, you might find it helpful to specifically look for notebooks that lie flat when opened. You can also use sheets of art paper if you want to go more independent collage style rather than journaling. Watercolor paper/notebooks are nice because they are thicker, but you can use whatever.

Materials to Actually Cut/Glue/Use - Okay, here's where you really can do whatever you want forever and spend as little or as much as you want. You can cut up books and magazines you have on hand. If you have a printer, you can print stuff out! People sell really amazing curated mixed packs of materials (you can support some great shops on etsy doing very cool and niche stuff! If you are really on a budget, amazon sells some bulk packs as well).

Material Tip

If you don't have a husband that works in a mailroom (we are very lucky) and you don't have a lot of magazines on hand, try going to your local post office and dig through the recycling bin! A lot of people will throw out magazines/ads/catalogues there and you might find some gems. You can also get a free trial for some magazines and just cancel once they want to charge you money. Nic finds Vogue and GQ helpful for people. National Geographic can be helpful for backgrounds and animals.

Leveling up details below the cut!

Level Up

Slide Cutter - Make sure you get one with a replaceable blade! Super helpful for bulk cutting out big shapes.

"Okay, but I see people online with fancy stuff and I want to get in on that action!" you may say. Here is some fun stuff to play with!

If you see someone whose junk journaling content you like, you can also just reach out to them! A lot of people are happy to share links to the stuff they use and a lot of junk journalers online run their own shops/have affiliate links to the stuff they use!

Fun Junk Journaling Variety Packs - truly this is where a lot of people spend a lot of money because you can buy all sorts of fun niche packs depending on the vibe/focus you want to go with. You can also buy packs of quotes / letters / sayings. This can be helpful especially when doing character focused stuff. My wife really likes the packs from PengellyCrafts on etsy.

Washi Tape - People really like using washi tape, especially the transparent ones. These can be surprisingly expensive.

Transparent Stickers - These are fun because you can get a lot of detail and layering without intricate cutting. If you are careful with detail cutting you can cut the white border on normal stickers if you can't swing transparent ones.

Stamps - Like transparent stickers, this can add fun depth and layering, though with perhaps slightly less detail. The best part about stamps is that they are infinitely reusable and you can get all sorts of stamp pads. The downside is they are surprisingly expensive. You can even get stamps that help you make backgrounds like stars or wood texture. There are also "container" stamps like jars and bottles that you can put stuff in!

Embossing Powder - You can pair stamps with a glue stamp pad (or get glue markers) to use with embossing powder and a heat gun to create embossed details that add depth and texture. Make sure you are careful about what order you do things in when using heat!

Distress Ink (or Distress Oxide) & Blender/Diffuser - Make things look aged! This is a stamp pad you can use to make any paper or image look older than it is. Make sure you also get the little foam blender they also sell for application since it'll go on too thick if you try to use it directly on the paper.

Wax & Wax Seals - Wax can be fun to play with because it is both an adhesive and also adds dimension. Note: a lot of embossing or wax in a journal can make it hard to close a notebook.

Old Books - You can buy used books or use books that you don't want anymore for backgrounds to cut out words. Things like recipe books and encyclopedias can be especially helpful/vibe-y.

Fun Edges / Frames - You can get scrapbooking scissors or edge punches to add fun details and shapes to paper edge. It just depends on whether you like that look! Something like a simple round edge punch can be helpful.

Have Fun With It

Do you do other crafts, like painting or cricut? You can pair so many different crafts with junk journaling to make a cool multi-media piece. The most important thing to remember is to use what you have and have fun with it! Don't put off starting because you want all the bells and whistles or think you have to spend a bunch of money like the people who create junk journaling internet content! Create joyfully and lean into the chaos.

Please let us know if this guide was helpful and if you'd like a more specific buy list or tutorials on anything! We are here to help make crafting more accessible <3 You got this! Go junk journal!

If you want to see Nic's junk journaling, we are going to queue some in the next few days. Check our pinned post to find our junk journaling tag for inspiration!

[muffinpoop1]

do you have any links to people who explain what "bulking" is? you said it's a common technique but none of my classes have ever mentioned it and I'm not finding any mentions of it online (at least when I search for art techniques/tutorials -- lots of bodybuilding videos, though)

Omigod, sorry for the typo-- it's "block-in".

But here are some links of tutorials I used to follow:

　　　　　　　　　　Florent Farges - arts

　　　　　　　　　　　　Paint Coach

　　　　　　　　SIMPLIFY Drawing and Painting

Then on instagram there is this man: @nic.thurman

Nic is an amazing portrait artist and he explains everything very well !

And sorry again for the confusion !

[muridae3]

Vertigo | Harvey x Cringefail Farmer

This is my interpretation of how Harvey and Cringefail Farmer would handle Harvey's 10 heart event. I hope you enjoy!

Cringefail Farmer belongs to the lovely @clarisinne ! If you haven't already, please go read their Cringefail Farmer comic. It is absolutely amazing!

“This is so stupid…” Harvey sighed, slipping his hands into his pockets. The early morning chill was already starting to nip at him. He was about to turn back, wanting to abandon this completely idiotic idea, when her voice stopped him in his tracks.

“Hi… Why did you want to meet me so early, Harvey?” She asked, stopping beside him and stretching. 

“It’s only nine… Your sleep schedule concerns me…” He said, smiling despite his better judgment. “But, you’re just in time!”

Harvey gestured at the sky, and she gawked at the hot air balloon descending towards them.

“Look, here it comes!” Harvey couldn’t help but feel a little giddy at the prospect of being in the sky, even though it was very clearly a stupid idea.

The balloon drifted down, the faint hiss of the burner fading as it settled onto the grass. A small man exited the basket. “Marcello’s balloon rentals, at your service!”

“Thank you for the last-minute rental, Marcello.” Harvey said, passing the man an envelope with the payment. 

Marcello did not respond, counting the bills slowly before looking up at them. “Now, I heard there was a saloon around here?”

“Uh, it’s in town… you go down those steps over there and south. It’s called the Stardrop.” She said, surprising Harvey.

Marcello left without another word.

“I didn’t know you could be kind to strangers…” Harvey said, turning to her.

She blushed, that familiar shade of red tugging on Harvey’s heartstrings. “Yeah, well, I… you know. Where’d you find this thing, anyway?”

“I saw an ad in the paper for these balloon rides, and I knew I had to surprise you with one.” He said, grinning. 

“But aren’t you afraid of heights?”

His grin faltered slightly. He had been trying not to think of that. “I am… yeah. But, I’m determined not to let that stop me from doing what I want… and experiencing this with you.” 

That made her blush more. “Sweet Yoba, that was cheesy.” 

Harvey laughed. “I’ll try not to get scared.” 

He opened the door of the basket, allowing her to step in before he did. Pulling the cord, he took a breath, steeling himself for the ascent into the sky. 

The familiar twinge of nerves in his belly progressed to all-out panic as the ground fell further and further away, and Harvey had to cover his eyes. 

“Are you… good?” She asked. “I think you’ll break the basket if you grip it any harder…”

“We’re… we’re up so high…” He mumbled, trying to swallow his fear. “I wanted to impress you with this… but look at me. I’m a trembling coward…” He let out a shaky laugh, trying to salvage the situation that he had so thoroughly ruined. 

“Don’t talk about yourself like that.” She laid a hand on his shoulder. 

“Well, you’ve certainly got more than enough courage to make up for me… that’s… that’s part of why I like you.” He said, leaning into her touch.

“Courage? Or stupidity?” She asked, laughing. “How many times did you patch me up because I went to the mines or tripped and fell or did something else just as stupid?” 

“Entirely too many. But… I mean… those times did get you to… to talk to me.” 

“What?”

“Well, I mean, you went all those weeks without talking to me…” He took a breath. “But I liked that I got to see you when you hurt yourself. Not that I liked it when you hurt yourself, but… uh…” He cringed at himself– somehow, he had made the situation even more awkward.

“Heh. I guess you’re right. If I weren’t so stupid…” She trailed off. 

“You’re not stupid, just… a little hard headed. Not in a bad way!" He paused, frantically trying to think of a way to save this. "I just… oh, cheese and crackers, I messed this up. I’m sorry. I just wanted… I just wanted to do something nice for you. But look at me. I can’t even open my eyes.” 

“This is nice, Harvey. Would it help if I…” She took his hand in her own. 

“Yes,” He whispered, “Please, do.”

She stroked his thumb with her own. “I’ve got you.”

“Okay…” He took a breath. “I’m going to open my eyes and look down… don’t let go of my hand.”

“Couldn’t if I tried. You have a very strong grip.”

“Sorry.” He said, wincing. His breath caught as he opened his eyes, heart pounding in his chest. Every instinct screamed at him to look away. The ground was so far away, and they were so high in the air, and… her hand was warm. So warm. So comforting. 

“I… I think I can do it now.” He said, focusing entirely on the weight of her hand in his own.

“Look, birds!” She pointed to the passing flock, and he watched them go by.

He felt the wind on his face and the sun on his skin. He realized he had actually begun to enjoy himself. It was so… peaceful.

The nerves in his stomach gradually settled, and he allowed his other hand to fall to his side.

“Hey, this is incredible! I think I can see Mayor Lewis standing in the town square!” He said, pointing at the little green blob.

“I should have brought his underwear… we could have pelted him with it.” She said with a laugh. 

Harvey checked his watch. “Oh dear… our time’s almost up.” 

“Aw, already?” She asked, turning to him. 

“Um… well, I did want to… er, talk to you about… and, um, this is as good a place as any…” He trailed off. Sweet Yoba, why did his brain stop working when he was around her?

She was looking at him expectantly. Now or never. 

“Um… We’ve known each other for a while now, and… I… er…” He trailed off. 

She cupped his cheek with her hand, and he closed the gap between them. 

They said nothing for the next half hour, his lips on her mouth and neck and shoulders.

Strangely, Harvey felt as if he had gotten his point across without ever saying a word.

Pausing for breath, Harvey pulled away from her. “Whoops…” He mumbled, checking his watch. “Our time was up  a half hour ago. We’d better touch down.”

“But it’s nice up here… with you.” She said, cupping his cheek once more. 

“Even so… we can continue this later. Wait…” His face went red, realizing the implication. “That’s not what I meant–”

She laughed, cutting him off. “I know what you meant. I’m free for lunch if you are?”

He smiled. “Yeah, lunch sounds nice.”

As they touched down and stepped out of the basket, Harvey lingered, looking back at the balloon. “I still can’t believe I did that.” He murmured. 

She took his hand in her own once again, smiling. 

“Thank you for putting up with me today.” He said as they descended the stairs. 

“You put up with me all the time. I’m only returning the favor.” She said, leaning on his arm. 

“I mean it. I’m sorry I was such a… wuss.” 

“Harvey.” She stopped walking, looking at him. “I avoided you for weeks because of my stupid fear. You literally had to chase me down. But, you just faced your greatest fear head on to impress me. If anything, that makes me wussier than you.”

He blushed. “I… well, I wouldn’t call you a wuss…”

“A coward? A weakling? A sissy?”

“Mine. I’d call you mine.” He said, planting a kiss on her forehead. 

She blushed. “Uh… lunch.”

“Yeah. Lunch. C’mon.” He pulled her towards town, reveling in the fact that he’d rendered her speechless.

[stacygetsit]

Universal truths and reasons

So inquiring minds wonder if Nic and Luke are dating why would they let the public think that they are dating other people. I wanted to dive into a couple truths and some reasons this might be the case. Let's get into some universal truths. Both Luke and Nic did an amazing job on Bridgerton. They gave their lives to film it and then gave again with the 6 month tour. They let us into who they are as people. So we as the public feel like we know them. I too have thought at times Oh Nicola would never do that!! Or this sounds like Luke. We don't actually know them though. They are strangers to us. Yes we can dissect their movements and assume we know why they did certain things but ultimately we have no clue. Now another universal truth is that Nic nor Luke owe us any obligation to state who these people are to them. They also don't even owe us the joy of even knowing they are a couple. They don't owe us their personal lives or who is in them. They may want to keep that to themselves. Even If the truth does come out it will be either because they want to show the world who they love or someone will evade their privacy. Let's get to why would Nic not admit who she is dating or better yet why would she allow the world to think she dating someone she not actively dating. I think we can go in a couple directions with this. One of them ties into one of those universal truths and that's is she doesn't have to state who Jake is because honestly it's none of our business. Another reason could be what a lot of other Lukola blogs think which is they are using it as a distraction to do what they want BTS. Let's dive into the reasoning of it's not our business. Plain and simple reasoning correct. I have seen so many people say well if she wasn't dating him why would she keep going places with him? Well guys it's not her job to correct our wrong assumptions. Also might I add what is she suppose to do not be his friend because people are assuming things without her confirming anything. Or do you want her to stay at her house when she hangs out with him. That's unfair to her. But I'm sure if she spent time dispelling every single rumor that's all she would do. Also might I say this is where we don't really know her comes in. For all we know she is a stubborn and a hard headed person. All she is doing is living her life and hanging out with her friends maybe the rest of her friends don't want to be photographed and her younger friends don't mind. Maybe she at the point where she just doesn't care what we think. I say that because how would you feel like if all your accomplishments were being shadowed by a man even though you have tried to dispel the rumor. And all you did was try to help your friend network. I would be mad and at some point I would personally think well they can think whatever they want I'm not going out of my way anymore to change their minds. Now onto what a lot of other blogs (to many to state here who thinks that) have stated. A lot of people think Nic and Luke have used these other people as a distraction to what's really going on behind the scenes. Now I personally can see some merit in this everyone is concentrating on JD and they aren't paying attention or looking for signs of more. Now do I think this was their intention from the beginning no I don't. Would it be a smart move if they take advantage of what the masses assume? Yes it would be. It's a pretty simple reasoning to understand and a smart move as well. I can see them doing this. Now I don't think they can do this forever but for now until they are ready for the full truth to come out yea I can see this. I'm sure the truth is somewhere in the middle. They don't owe us anything. They don't have to correct our own assumptions. And they could be using our assumptions to their benefit. Eventually the truth will come out. I personally think we are on the right side but what do I know I'm a stranger on the internet. 🤣

[ramen8008]

It's good for the sanity of everyone that Tony Stark revealed he was Iron man when he did.

Can you imagine the havoc that this man would wreak of nobody knew he was Iron man?

Interviewer: what are your thoughts on the recent development of the avengers? Is there anyone that sticks out? Who is your favorite?

Tony stark: Ah yes the boy band? Wait no, the super hero dudes right? And dudettes of course. Oh yeah I don't care for it but iron man kinda sucks don't you think?

Interviewer: uhh

Tony: Like what is he supposed to be? A tin man? I could make that thing if I was stuck in a cave.

Interviewer: umm

Tony: though I will admit that suit makes his ass look great. Whoever he may be.

--------

Talk show host: So Tony Stark! We're now playing Fuck, Marry, Kill however with a twist! You are given a category of people instead of just three. You first group issssss The Avengers!

Tony: mmh hmm As you see I'm married so Kill Iron man he's useless, no powers at all. And he took too long to save me from a kidnapping once.

Tv host: [blinks] i- okay umm okay. Next question. What are your thoughts on Spider-Man? He has been seen around Iron man and some even call him his sidekick.

Tony: Iron man doesn't deserve Spiderman. Spiderman is great and awesome and a genius. He is amazing and lovely and adorable and should not be associated with iron man much less be called his sidekick.

Tv host: [nods nervously] okay uhh it seems you know this spiderman quiet personally?

Tony: Don't know what you mean. It's just obvious that as much as Iron man obviously loves and cherishes Spiderman he does not deserve him. I on the other hand would love to have him work with me.

Tony, leans closer to the mic: Spiderman is very much loved and cherished and not deserved at all by Iron man.

Tony, grabs mic and looks at camera and whispers: no matter just how awesome that ass looks

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

Interviewer: what do you have to say about the speculations about your and Iron man's relationship?

Tony: oh I hate him. I'm just using him for his body.

Interviewer: [splutters] w-what?!

Tony: what? Was it not obvious? I have been very clear for my love of that butt on him.

Interviewer: wh-what about Miss Potts?

Tony: she understands. I'll tell you a secret [leans very close to the nic and whispers] she likes that ass just as much as I do

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

The Avengers Saturday night is just watching every interview Tony has given and how much he fucks with the public

[darcytaylor]

It is tiring, is it not, trying to be a voice of reason in a fandom hell-bent on indulging in anything but? I admire your conviction and constancy, you're a stronger soldier than I.

Day after day I log in, finding very little in the fandom that interests me. I deleted my original blog because I was getting hate in my inbox on one hand and getting blocked by certain accounts then getting shit-talked by them on the other and people telling me about it. I don't need something like that in my life, especially not about something as inconsequential as a bloody TV show. Now I just mostly observe and occasionally slide into the ask box of people like you.

I think it's important to realize that at its core, this isn't about the show or Nic or Luke at all, it's about people meeting emotional needs by latching onto a piece of comfort media. A lot of the more extreme accounts in the fandom seem to be run by people with substantial trauma who are just trying to cope with the realities of life by rejecting them. It's unfortunate that they're taking it out on real people who just happen to be actors, but my hope is that the outlandishness of the claims makes it very easy for Nic and Luke to dismiss them outright and protect their peace.

I've been protecting my peace as well by not engaging. It just... It doesn't matter that much, none of this does. It's just entertainment. One day, people will delete their blogs, Tumblr will cease to exist, and so will the Universe, eventually. Not to get all existential on you lol, but everything that's ever been created and will ever be created will fade into irreversible nothingness. Do we really want to spend the limited time we have on Earth having bad experiences, especially unnecessary ones? The answer for me is no. But if other people are choosing this distress, it's not for me to tell them not to. It is their job to protect their own peace, if they so wish. And if they don't - well, it's their life to waste.

Appreciate you and hope we get more good career news from Nic and Luke soon! Have a good one.

Well, this is a thoughtful and introspective ask. Thank you for taking the time to share this, and for your kind words. It can definitely feel exhausting sometimes, trying to keep a level head in a space that can be so volatile and toxic. (I wouldn’t call myself the voice of reason - I’m just a human trying to be a positive presence online). But messages like yours remind me why I try - because there are people out there quietly observing, navigating the chaos in their own way, and some who may find some value in what I share.

I completely understand your decision to step back and protect your peace. That’s a smart move, and honestly, a much healthier one in a lot of ways. I’m sorry you had to deal with hate and gossip - it’s so disheartening how a space meant to bring joy can spiral into something so toxic. Like I’ve said before, if you don’t like a take you come across that isn't hurting anybody, there’s no need to respond in a hateful way (I do it all of the time!). People don’t need to belittle others for thinking differently. That doesn’t create an environment where everyone can actually enjoy themselves, learn, or connect. Instead, it just breeds hostility and defensiveness. And when people feel attacked, they’re less likely to engage in meaningful ways and more likely to retaliate. It’s just a vicious cycle of negativity, and no one wins in the end.

You bring up a good point about fandoms being a way for people to meet emotional needs (I mean I guess that's one of the reasons why I'm here). It’s such a bittersweet thing. On one hand, fandoms can be this amazing space for creativity and connection, but it can also turn into an unhealthy escape for some. Like you said, when this need for comfort becomes fixated on, it can lead to harmful projections - where the lines between fantasy and reality blur, and the people involved, like Nicola and Luke, are treated as though they’re part of that escape, instead of being real individuals.

I'm sure that Nicola and Luke are able to dismiss the more extreme stuff. I imagine that as public figures, they’ve probably had the opportunity to get some training or support to help them deal with everything that comes with fame - whether it’s media training, social media strategies, or just leaning on the people around them. They should hopefully have the tools they need to manage.

It’s a bit of a comfort to think that the more outlandish claims might be easier for them to brush off though, but it’s still a shame that they even have to deal with it in the first place. It’s a good reminder for all of us to try to approach spaces like this with more care and awareness.

Your existential perspective makes sense, none of this will matter in the grand scheme of things. What does matter is how we spend our time and the experiences we choose to let into our lives.

Thank you for your kind words and for this reminder about the bigger picture. Take care of yourself, and know that your choice to protect your peace is something to be admired.

Bring on more good news from Nicola, Luke and the rest of the Bridgerton cast! ❤️

[bagerfluff]

The Fox and The Wolf

Nico di Angelo x Male Half-Blood Reader

Prompt - Werecreature AU

You were a werefox.

With red ears sitting on top of your head. A fluffy tail with white at it tips right below your waist. A charming smile and mischievous personality. Always planning something. You were cunning, clever, and quick.

You were always stealing something.

You were the embodiment of a fox has a werefox. With the ability to transform to a red fox at will. You had a laugh that was loud and set people's nerves off. Whenever you laughed, something was going to happen.

You were amazing at smell, hearing, and sight. You could hear a tree fall from miles away. You could smell what someone ate a week after they ate it. You could see amazingly, in the dark. You were mostly asleep during the day and were rarely seen out of your cabin at night.

But you were really active at night. Always running around, eating, chasing something, or plotting something. You had really sharp nails that grew pretty fast. You were great at climbing and could climb almost anything.

You weren’t the best smelling.

Your tail always made a scent that didn’t smell the best, no matter how much you showered. You were very playful. You loved playing with friends. You loved chasing them around, playing hide and seek, or training.

Some saw you were the life of the party.

But one thing was that you were quite lonely. You didn’t mind, foxes normally spend their time alone. You would spend time eating, sleeping, and doing hobbies alone. You might be playful and make people smile but you didn’t really have any friends.

Except for one.

Nico di Angelo.

Well he wasn’t your friend. He was your boyfriend. He was a werewolf. With streak ears on the top of his head and a black tail below his waist. Nico was more of a lone wolf. He had great senses of smell, hearing, and sight.

Just like you.

But he was different from you. Nico was more quiet, calm, and thinking. Nico mostly just stays in the shadows away from people. Nico would mostly just chill while you would go steal something. But Nico was impressive too.

Nico could sneak up on someone in seconds. Nico could run far too. Nico could also turn into a wolf, a streak black wolf with scars littered under the fur. But Nico was caring too. Always asking if something was wrong.

Nico could be quite playful too, when he wanted too. If you and Nico were both playful. Run. Nico was also very protective. Nico had a lot of friends that he cared about.

Though Nico mostly was alone he did care about his friends and family. Especially you. How you and Nico became friends then started to date, you’ll never forget that. 

You were hiding behind a cabin as you watched two kids talking. One was playing with something and you were waiting for the perfect time to steal it. “What are you doing”, you jumped and your ears stood straight up.

You should have heard the person coming but you were a little too preoccupied with your thoughts. “Shhh”, you turned around while making the sound. The person that scared you and almost blew your cover was Nico di Angelo.

You’ve seen him around camp and you knew about him. He was one of the only other werecreatures in Camp Half-Blood. He was a werewolf. Mostly alone and in the shadows. You turned back around but you noticed that the people had left.

And the kid didn’t leave what he was playing with. “You made me miss my opportunity”, you sneered at Nico. A glare was evident on your face. “What were you even trying to do?”

You had no idea why Nico was talking to you. From why you knew Nico rarely talked to anyone except his friends.

“I was trying to steal something”

“but that's wrong”

“I give it back”

“still wrong”.

You growled and your ears stood up again. “Just don’t do it again” “maybe you should try doing it at night next time”. You glanced over at Nico to see a small smile on his face.

You watched as Nico walked away. 

Ever since then you’ve hung out with Nico. You found him cute. Especially whenever you called Nico a pet name or petted his head. Then after a while you two got together. You admit that wasn’t your best moment.

You were walking around with your tail in between your legs. You were looking for Nico. You felt extremely sad and guilty. You had yelled at Nico. Nico had just come back from an outing and you saw him when he was walking out of infirmary.

You were worried about him so you asked him what happened. Nico didn’t tell you anything, just that he got hurt. You knew that but you wanted to know how he got hurt. But Nico didn’t tell you. You were fine with that so you just told Nico to be more careful.

But Nico got mad and raised his voice at you. You did the same and the conversation, turned screaming match, ended with Nico running away. An hour later you were looking for him because you wanted to apologize.

You hadn’t found him anywhere.

Your last place to try was the forest. So with a heavy heart you walked to the forest and started looking for Nico. You tried yelling to see if he would come. You tried hearing for anything. You tried smelling for anything.

But you found nothing.

You felt like crying. The reason you felt so bad was because you loved Nico. He was one of the only people you wanted to hang out with. Maybe spend the rest of your life with. You knew you liked guys and you were fine with that.

Nobody cared that you were a guy that liked guys. You slowly walked back to camp. Nico didn’t want to talk to you so you respected that. Once you got close enough to camp to see it you decided that you didn’t want to go there.

So you just sat down near a tree and transformed. You curled up next to the tree and started to whimper. After a while you heard something sit and curl up in front of you.

You didn’t feel like looking at it so you just buried your head deeper into your fur. But when you felt something touch your head you looked up. When you looked up you saw a black wolf. It was Nico! You knew it.

You started to laugh and jump up and down as a fox. You ran around Nico and jumped all around him. You jumped on top of him and played around with him. Nico, was a wolf, did nothing. He just watched as you did this.

After you were done you pressed your nose to Nico’s.

You remember after that you and Nico had your first kiss and became boyfriends. You loved that moment. But you couldn’t get stuck in the past, you were busy. You were running around, tail wagging in excitement.

You heard from Percy that Nico was here at camp. So you wanted to find him. You knew that Nico tended to either hang out in the training ring, near the trees, or talking to friends. You stopped running and looked around. You were right next to the training ring and didn’t see Nico.

You just ran into Percy and Annabeth.

Maybe Nico was in the forest. You started to book it for the forest when you smelled something. You stopped running and looked around. Eventually you found what you were looking for. You ran over to the tree with a smile on your face.

“Nico!” You yelled. Nico looked up from his lap and smiled slightly. “Hey Y/n”, Nico glanced behind you. Your tail was wagging really fast. Nico’s tail started to wag slowly behind him. “Whatcha doing angel?” You asked.

You leaned down to look Nico in the eyes. Nico blushed when you called him the pet name “Nothing. What about you?” A mischievous smile took over your face and Nico wondered what you did. “I’ll show you”, you leaned up and stuck your hands out.

Nico took your hand and you pulled him up. You and Nico might be different. But you liked Nico and Nico liked you. So you both walked away. You with a cunning smile on your face and Nico’s face showed that he was worried.

Tails wagging at the same speed. 

[kuwdora]

ao3 wrapped: 3, 12, 25!

eeeee these are good numbers, thank you for the ask nic!

3. What work are you most proud of (regardless of kudos/hits)?

Some Kind of Disaster my TWN Season 3 missing scene fic with Yen and Jaskier is the one I’m most proud of this year. (Though to be fair I only managed to finish/post 4 fics this year so it’s a small pool… But still!) This fic hits all of the emotional beats that had been swirling in my head for a few years now, so I was over the moon when I got to the end of the fic and it was done and it was everything I wanted. Such a great feeling to see it into the world.

12. How many WIP’s do you have in your docs for next year?

The number of WIPs are always too many. Prioritizing my WIPs is hard at the best of times, heh. I had maybe 6-7 active WIPs in the past year that I didn’t finish. On top of a few more new WIPs and ideas that wanted to be WIPs. Hard to stay focused.

As I said in previous ask, I have a yennskier nonsexual kink fic to work on. Since I’m still very much in witcher mode regardless of time between seasons.

But I still have my 20k+ Ciri fic that I really want and need to revisit. I have 30k+ more Jaskier fic that I yearn to work on. It's really matter of me poking @littlestsnicket and maybe enlisting some other folks to wave pompoms in my periphery to remind me that I want to go chasing that’ finishing-a-longfic/series feeling.’ I forever need to practice sharing more WIPs on main.

I may try to finish and post a little radskier ficlet I wrote in…idk I want to say March? And then there’s a Vilgefortz ficlet that I started last year, too that I think could be within finishing distance.

25. Did you receive any gifts this year?

I have a BOUNTY of gifts from this year! Like, so many. So blessed, everyone is having so much fun and I'm loving it all. Strap in, I got a squeeful recs list for you all.

Chantress did a podfic of my TWN Triss/Yenna ficlet Germinate which was a complete and wonderful surprise and is so, so lovely.

@astaldis did a remix of one of my Yennefer/Jaskier drabbles and it’s so great! It’s called Completion, very sexy feelings and hottness.

@she-who-drank-vodka-with-cats picked up a prompt I shared in the Smubbles server for some Meve/Reynard Thronebreaker awesomeness. It’s called the benefits of a prince consort. My prompt was: meve/reynard foot massage and comfort. ❤️❤️❤️

@sassaffrassa wrote me a smutty Geralt/Jaskier edging drabble called Stamina and it's of course 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Sass also wrote me Scavenger’s Reign Azi/Levi sex pollen drabble called flowering because robot yuri and sex pollen!!!!! If ever an an alien planet would have sex pollen, it would be Vesta. 🔥🔥🔥

@flootzavut gifted me a Jaskier fic called you do not get to hurt me which was a lovely surprise, lots of queer Jaskier messy feelings. I had a great time tossing the idea ball back and forth with flooty on this one when they were a little stuck on it. And the finished fic is so great and achey and I want to roll around in the Jaskier feelings all the time. Love you flootyfloots. I was bamboozled with love and utter surprise when I got an AO3 notification saying I was gifted a Stargate work. From none other than MSSalieri/troyswann who has been archiving their SG fic over the last few years. It’s an Elizabeth Weir and Daniel Jackson fic inspired by a prompt I offered Salieri several lifetimes and platforms ago. Salieri is an author and artist I have loved for an eternity, and I spent a lot of time reading and studying her fic when I was also first starting out writing fic. Trying to figure out how to do this prose thing. Really, just amazing…so much in a short fic. Reactivating the dormant Stargate feelings. The fic is called Unknown Waters. my prompt I had given Sal: If one tries to navigate unknown waters one runs the risk of shipwreck.

And then. There’s @ialwayscomewhenyoucall. Lira. Lira! Who I am constantly egging on with my Doctor Who Ten/Jack prompts in the @smubbles-etc discord server. Lira is just as delighted by my prompts as I am fucking excited to see what she comes up with. I’ve dumped approximately 200 million Doctor Who Ten/Jack prompts into the server this year. She’s been making me feel like a winner, lol. Lira is frolicking with prompts and I’m kicking my feetsies. ALSO Lira, have you made any headway on that Ten/Jack having sex performance for a paying alien audience prompt? Maybe for Smubble’s Wanksmas event? :D

Doctor Who Ten/Jack drabbles by LiraelClayr007:

Roses are Red - prompt: jack in lingerie. doctor admiring.

Black and (TARDIS) Blue - prompt: atyptical bruising patterns that jack is really into and wants more of immediately.

Different Body, Same Hearts - prompt: jack/ten reunion blowjob, the thrill of it all after so long.

Working together - a remix of my Refrain fic - Jack wants more. The Doctor is happy to give it to him.

You Can Wait - remix of my Syllable ficlet - Jack isn't allowed to come until the Doctor does.

From his knees - remix of my Reverence ficlet - Jack worships the Doctor.

Tether - The Doctor is spiraling after saying goodbye to Rose and his other self. Jack sees, and knows how to help. (not my prompt but lira's gotten so spun up from all my other prompts that I am still getting the goodies, ehehe)

The Doctor’s Song - Jack loves the sounds the Doctor makes. (not my prompt but still my joy !!!)

It’s a New Day - During sex, Jack asks the Doctor a question. He's surprised by the answer (not my prompt but still my gift, yes yayay)

❤️❤️❤️ I didn't manage to write/finish/post as much fic as I would have liked but I still had a great time with all the ideas and words from my brilliant friends. Here's to another year of awesome fic.

[themelongum]

Niccolo x Sasha — A cake for her birthday

The modest kitchen of the grand restaurant was quiet—not a soul around except a blond boy, who was storming all over the place from one bowl to another.

Niccolo had barely gotten any sleep last night, too nervous for the upcoming day. Yet when his alarm went off at five in the morning, he rushed to his workplace as if no tiredness could affect him. Not on this day, at least. This day was special. This day was her day.

As he was whisking the eggs into the flour mix, the sun had risen high enough to hit his eyes with a bright glow, spreading across the room. He paused to look around. The small space was full of sunlight. It penetrated every little corner, and in the light, he could see tiny specks of dust floating in the air. It couldn’t have been any other way, thought Niccolo—after long days of continuous rain, the sun was bound to shine on her birthday.

“What are you doing here so early?” The soft, sleepy voice startled him, pulling him out of his reverie. And panic settled in.

“You’re not supposed to be here!” Niccolo cried, anxiously swinging his hands in the air. In one swift motion, he was right in front of Sasha, trying to send her out of the kitchen.

With a perplexed look on her face, Sasha put her hands on his forearms, standing firm on the ground. “Why? Do you keep secrets from me? You were always happy to see me here.”

Niccolo knew he couldn’t talk his way out of it. So the only thing left was to accept his failure. “It was a surprise… For your birthday.” He sighed, hanging his head.

“Oh, my birthday,” she muttered, the corners of her mouth curling down. It wasn’t long, though, before her lips stretched into a smile and she collided with his chest, tightly wrapping her arms around his torso. “You planned a surprise for my birthday? Thank you, Nic!” she said, burying her face into his shirt.

A profuse blush covered his cheeks as he put his arms on her back hesitantly. “Don’t thank me; it’s not ready yet. And since the surprise is ruined, you might want to help me with taste testing, so I wouldn’t fail at this as well,” he chuckled.

“Nothing is ruined!” Unclasping her hands, Sasha took a step back to look into his eyes. “And it’s not possible for you to fail at cooking. Your food is always amazing. What were you cooking?”

With a shy smile, Niccolo took her hand in his, leading her towards one of the countertops, where three bowls stood filled to the brim. “I’m making you a birthday cake—”

“A cake? A whole birthday cake just for me?” Sasha interrupted, raising her brows.

“What’s a birthday without a cake? Why are you so surprised?” he chuckled. Lowering her gaze, she pursed her lips and started fidgeting with her fingers. Afraid of having said something wrong, Niccolo hurried to change the topic back to his initial thought. “I wasn’t sure about the filling, so I made three different kinds. And, honestly, I don’t know how I would choose. But since you’re here, I thought—”

Sasha didn’t even let him finish as she took a wooden spoon out of his hand and stuffed her mouth with a generous scoop from the first bowl. “Mhm, it’s good… So tasty,” she mumbled through chewing.

“That’s whipped cream,” Niccolo laughed. Taking the spoon from her, he dipped it in the second bowl. “Here, try this one,” he said, bringing it to her mouth.

She hummed as the flavor spread across her taste buds. “What’s this? It’s delicious. Give me more!”

A new wave of laughter swept over him. “It was cream cheese. Better taste the last one, though. I’m especially proud of this.”

For the first time since the bowls came into her view, Sasha took her eyes off them, staring at Niccolo. He brought the spoon to her lips again, but this time her soft, brown eyes were fixed on his as she tasted the filling. Unable to shift his gaze, he gulped, eager to see her reaction.

“Chocolate! It’s chocolate! Am I right? God, it’s so good!” she cried, bringing her hands to her face and rocking on her hills.

Niccolo’s lips stretched into a wide grin. “Yes, it’s chocolate ganache. So, which one should we choose?”

Studying the bowls, Sasha furrowed her brows. “This one!” She pointed at the last bowl. “No, wait! This!.. Wait, but this one was so good too.. You’re making it impossible, Nic!” She huffed and slumped down in the nearest chair, visibly upset.

“I’ll give you all of it anyway,” he laughed. “Just choose which one you want on the cake.”

Her large eyes seemed to go even bigger at his words. “You will? You’re the best!” She sprang to her feet, embracing him in a hug. A tinge of pink spread over his cheeks for the second time this morning. “Then chocolate ganache, I guess,” she said with a sheepish smile.

“Ganache it is!” He lifted the spoon in the air to mark their success.

Having decided on the filling, Niccolo went back to preparing the cake, and Sasha stood by his side, ready to help with anything he would entrust her with. He kept stealing glances at her when she was pouring the milk, when she was cutting strawberries, and when she was licking the spoon off, thinking he wouldn’t notice.

He did. He noticed everything—every little detail about her. The way she talked to everyone so politely at all times. The way she laughed at her friends’ jokes, making his lips curl up instinctively if he happened to hear her contagious laughter. The way her eyes sparkled every time she ate his food. If she was worried, if she slightly changed her hairstyle, and if—god forbid—her appetite was lower than usual.

She placed her hand on his, giving it a light squeeze, and peered into his eyes. “Thank you, Niccolo, really. I don’t even remember the last time someone made a cake for my birthday. I guess sometimes life gets in the way,” she trailed off, her doe eyes glistening with tears.

This time, he was the one to embrace her. As she wrapped her hands around him, hiding her face on his chest, Niccolo put his head on top of hers, inhaling the scent of her strawberry shampoo. He held her close, and every pore of his body repulsed the idea of ever letting her go. And before he managed to process it, his lips landed on her forehead in a gentle kiss.

He froze. He turned his head away, completely paralyzed in his entire body. In his arms, Sasha stiffened too. Hot in the face, he was about to pull away when she lifted her head and kissed his chin. Looking into his eyes, Sasha snickered lightly; her eyes crinkled, and a light shade of pink covered her cheeks. He smiled at the sight—his favorite in the whole world.

After removing the cakes from the oven, they stacked all the layers, adding the filling in between. For the decorating part, Niccolo made Sasha turn around and close her eyes, and she was only allowed to look at it once everything was ready.

On the table stood a perfect chocolate cake graced with strawberries and “Happy birthday, Sasha!” written neatly across with a few little hearts.

“What a pretty cake!” she gasped. And before anything else could be said, she was already sticking her fork in the cake, hungrily stuffing her mouth. “You’re a genius, Niccolo!”

Though accustomed to her habits, he couldn’t contain his laughter at the scene in front of him, closing his eyes to savor the moment. Seeing her joy was everything he could ever ask for. Being the reason for her joy was more than he deemed himself worthy of.

He opened his eyes with a sigh. “Happy birthday, Sasha.”

Before the tombstone lay white roses and a piece of chocolate cake.

[casey-lalonde-egbert]

I noticed one of your top posts is Bi Rose and John with their prude flags, and I noticed John had a pin for a trans flag, and you tagged the post with “transmasc”

Do you headcanon John as a trans male? I’d love to hear out people and how they personally interpret characters from a fictional work!

yes! though i have many interpretations of the characters, some closer to canon than others, i hold some headcanons very dear to my heart, transmasc john being one of them! mainly being someone who doesn't fully align with one gender fully all the time (being genderfluid) i think a character like john is an amazing example of positive masculinity in many senses! even though hes mostly a silly nerdy boy, with boy-ish interests like action movies or wanting to be like Nic Cage in con air (being this sort of father figure who does everything for those he loves), he's also very honest with his feelings and open to sharing them with others, he has moments of being emotional openly without shame! plus all the messages from dad egbert, and john's reaction to wearing a suit just like his dad feel like some sort of gender euphoria for him! it adds to john and dad's relationship too showing how supporting of a father he truly is accepting his child no matter how they identify! i love this interpretation so much because there's a lot in the story to support john's masculinity in such a positive light!

[vaultof-thoughts]

https://www.tumblr.com/vaultof-thoughts/758622281700442112/hi-m-hope-ur-doing-well-today-so-even-though?source=share

Not this anon, also you are amazing!

If you had to be aware of like being in a different reality how do you go about it. I really don't know if I have a desire or why am I so bothered with the way I look that I keep searching for ways to change it...

🥲 sorry if it sounds like trauma dumping ( not my intention 😭 )

I can drop the mind but I can't drop the body, 😔

Awww thanks

I answered another person who had a similar ask to this a few seconds ago, everyone wants to get something here 🤨

But I will say, you haven't dropped the mind. Because it's the mind telling you that you need a different appearance, that you're doubting, that you feel ugly, or that you even care about the way you look.

Look, you don't have to drop the mind (idk what exactly that implies) but you just need to stop listening to these thoughts. Like actually, stopppppp. You're keeping yourself in a loop.

You said "I really don't know if I have a desire or why am I so bothered with the way I look that I keep searching for ways to change it"

Who is the 'I' your talking about? Is the 'I' in the room with us? There is no I!!! There's just a thought, and maybe even a feeling, you aren't either of those!!!

YOU are the only reality, YOU are limitless, desire no thing because you are EVERYTHING. NOTICE THAT!!! (i could go into more depth but I'll leave it as that.)

"return to the simplicity of being and immerse yourself in the direct experience of this presence, rather than getting lost in the narrative of the mind" - Nic Higham