#Perfecting coffee and food combinations

[thecoffeetongue]

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Coffee Pairing 101: Perfecting the Art of Matching Coffee with Food

The purpose of this article is to empower readers with the knowledge and skills necessary to achieve mastery in the delicate craft of harmonizing coffee with food, elevating their culinary experiences to new heights.

  Understanding Flavor Profiles

Coffee encompasses a captivating complexity of flavors, ranging from vibrant acidity to subtle bitterness, delightful sweetness, and enticing aromas. These elements combine to create a symphony of taste that tantalizes the palate and intrigues coffee enthusiasts.

Recognizing and comprehending the distinct flavor profiles present in different coffee beans is paramount to unlocking a world of sensory exploration. By identifying these profiles, coffee lovers can make informed choices about the type of coffee that suits their preferences and desired pairing experiences.

Let’s explore some popular flavor profiles and their accompanying culinary counterparts. For instance, a bright and lively coffee with high acidity, often found in African coffees, pairs wonderfully with citrus-infused desserts or tropical fruits. On the other hand, a deep and robust coffee with a hint of bitterness, characteristic of dark roasts, can stand up to rich and chocolaty desserts or complement hearty dishes like grilled meats or aged cheeses. Additionally, a delicate and floral coffee, known for its fragrant aromas, pairs elegantly with light pastries or floral-infused desserts.

Understanding these flavor profiles not only enriches the appreciation of coffee but also allows for thoughtful and intentional pairings that elevate the overall tasting experience.

  Basic Principles of Coffee Pairing

Coffee pairing is an art that revolves around the fundamental principles of complementing or contrasting flavors. By considering the interplay between the taste profiles of coffee and food, one can create harmonious or intriguing combinations that enhance the overall sensory experience.

The intensity and body of both coffee and food play crucial roles in successful pairings. Matching the intensity ensures that neither the coffee nor the food overpowers the other, allowing for a balanced and cohesive taste experience. Similarly, aligning the body of the coffee with the weight and texture of the food creates a harmonious union, where neither element feels out of place.

Let’s explore some examples of successful coffee and food pairings to illustrate these principles. A light and crisp coffee with bright acidity pairs wonderfully with delicate seafood dishes, such as grilled shrimp or ceviche, as the coffee’s acidity cuts through the richness of the seafood, creating a refreshing combination. Conversely, a bold and full-bodied coffee, like an espresso or a dark roast, can complement the robust flavors of grilled steak or barbecued meats, as their intensity matches the richness and smokiness of the dish.

By applying these basic principles, coffee lovers can experiment with various combinations and discover delightful synergies that elevate the enjoyment of both coffee and food. Whether it’s finding complementary flavors or creating exciting contrasts, understanding and applying these principles enhance the art of coffee pairing.

  Pairing Coffee with Sweet Foods

The harmonious synergy between coffee and sweet treats, such as desserts, pastries, and chocolates, is a delight for the senses. The complex flavors of coffee, including its inherent bitterness, can be beautifully balanced with the sweetness of these indulgent delights.

Achieving a balance between sweetness and bitterness is key in coffee and sweet food pairings. The bitterness of coffee can act as a counterpoint to the sweetness, creating a pleasing contrast that enhances the flavors of both elements. This balance is achieved by selecting coffees with varying levels of bitterness and sweetness, as well as considering the intensity and complexity of the sweet dish.

When it comes to specific recommendations, a rich and velvety espresso pairs wonderfully with a decadent chocolate cake or a fudgy brownie, as the espresso’s bold flavors complement the richness of the chocolate. For lighter, fruit-based desserts like a lemon tart or a berry cheesecake, a coffee with bright acidity and fruity notes, such as a Kenyan or Ethiopian coffee, provides a refreshing and vibrant pairing experience. Additionally, the caramel and toffee notes of a medium roast coffee beautifully enhance the flavors of desserts like crème brûlée or salted caramel desserts.

The possibilities for coffee and sweet food combinations are vast, allowing for a world of exploration and taste sensations. By considering the balance between bitterness and sweetness and experimenting with different coffee profiles, coffee lovers can create memorable pairings that elevate the enjoyment of their favorite sweet treats.

  Pairing Coffee with Savory Foods

Coffee’s versatility extends beyond sweet pairings, as it can also enhance the flavors of savory dishes, including meats, cheeses, and hearty meals. The complexity of coffee, with its acidity, richness, and aroma, creates intriguing interactions with savory flavors.

The acidity in coffee can provide a pleasant contrast or balance to the richness and fattiness of savory foods. It can brighten flavors, cut through heavy textures, and cleanse the palate. The richness in coffee, such as the body and mouthfeel, can complement the savory elements in a dish, adding depth and complexity. Additionally, the aromatic qualities of coffee can contribute to the overall sensory experience, enhancing the aromas of savory ingredients and heightening the enjoyment of the meal.

Some successful coffee and savory food pairings include a medium roast Colombian coffee with a grilled steak. The coffee’s medium acidity and nutty undertones harmonize with the savory flavors of the steak, enhancing its richness. Similarly, a dark roast coffee with smoky notes, like a French roast, complements the bold flavors of barbecued meats or charcuterie boards. The coffee’s robustness cuts through the fattiness and amplifies the savory characteristics. For cheese pairing, a lightly roasted coffee with fruity or floral notes, such as a Yemeni coffee, pairs well with creamy and tangy cheeses like brie or goat cheese.

By exploring the diverse flavors and profiles of both coffee and savory foods, coffee enthusiasts can discover unique and enjoyable pairings. The interplay of acidity, richness, and aroma creates an elevated culinary experience, enhancing the flavors of savory dishes and opening up new avenues of gastronomic delight.

  Exploring Regional Coffee-Food Pairings

Across the globe, diverse cultures have developed unique traditions of coffee and food pairings, reflecting their local culinary practices and flavor preferences. These regional pairings offer a captivating glimpse into the intersection of coffee culture and gastronomy.

In Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee, a traditional coffee ceremony is accompanied by flavorful snacks like injera (a sourdough flatbread) and dabo kolo (spiced crunchy snacks). This combination celebrates the earthy and fruity notes of Ethiopian coffee while complementing its vibrant acidity.

Moving to Italy, the classic pairing of espresso and biscotti showcases the Italians’ art of savoring strong coffee alongside crispy almond or anise-flavored biscuits. This duo balances the intensity of espresso with the subtle sweetness and crunchy texture of biscotti.

In Turkey, a rich, strong brew known as Turkish coffee is often served with Turkish delight, a confectionary delight made of gelatin and sugar. The bold flavors of the coffee mingle harmoniously with the floral and sweet notes of the Turkish delight, creating a delightful contrast.

Japan offers a unique pairing experience with matcha, a powdered green tea, and wagashi, traditional Japanese sweets. The vibrant and earthy matcha is balanced by the delicate sweetness of wagashi, which can include flavors like red bean paste or matcha-infused ingredients.

These examples highlight the cultural significance and flavor harmonies found in regional coffee and food pairings. Exploring these traditions can broaden our understanding of the global coffee landscape while offering new and exciting taste experiences.

By embracing regional coffee-food pairings, coffee enthusiasts can embark on a flavorful journey that celebrates the rich diversity of global coffee cultures and the remarkable connections between coffee and cuisine.

  Experimenting and Personalizing Coffee Pairings

The world of coffee pairing is ripe with opportunities for exploration and personalization. Encourage readers to embark on their own journey of discovery by experimenting with different coffee and food combinations based on their individual preferences and taste preferences.

Offer practical tips to aid readers in their exploration. Suggest keeping a flavor journal to document their observations and experiences with various pairings. This journal can help identify patterns, preferences, and unexpected discoveries along the way. Encourage readers to seek recommendations from coffee experts, baristas, or specialty coffee shops that can provide insights into unique and successful pairings worth trying.

Highlight the significance of personal taste and enjoyment in the art of coffee pairing. Remind readers that while there are general guidelines and principles to consider, ultimately, it is their own palate and preferences that should guide their choices. Encourage them to trust their instincts, be open to surprises, and celebrate the joy that comes from finding their own perfect coffee and food combinations.

By embracing experimentation and personalization, readers can unlock a world of endless possibilities in coffee pairing. Each individual’s unique preferences and discoveries contribute to the ever-evolving landscape of flavors and pairings, making the coffee experience truly personal and enjoyable.

  Conclusion

Throughout this article, we have explored the art of coffee pairing, delving into its principles and showcasing examples of successful combinations. We have learned about the complexity of coffee flavors, the importance of understanding flavor profiles, and the interplay between coffee and food in both sweet and savory pairings. We have also celebrated regional traditions and encouraged experimentation and personalization in coffee pairing.

As we reach the end of this journey, I invite you to fully embrace the art of coffee pairing. Let your taste buds be your guide as you explore the world of flavors that await you. Coffee is not merely a beverage; it is a gateway to an exquisite sensory experience that can be enhanced when thoughtfully paired with food.

So, as you embark on your own coffee pairing adventures, remember to trust your palate, keep an open mind, and savor the delightful surprises that await you. Elevate your coffee and culinary experiences, and let the harmonious union of coffee and food awaken your senses. Cheers to the endless possibilities and the joy that comes from finding your perfect cup and companion.

In the world of coffee pairing, a symphony of flavors awaits. Indulge in this art form, and may your coffee and culinary journeys be filled with delicious discoveries and moments of pure delight.

[urbanchickresto]

Get 15% OFF with a perfect combination! 2 Ultimate Platter + 2 Sea Salt Caramel Coffee💖 ₱768 only & Save ₱62 😉 Promo will run for the whole love month of February💗 A perfect combination by @urbanchickbbq & @cafeeloise_ Music: Perfect Combination- Stacey Lattisaw & Johnny Gill Disclaimer: Music not mine no copyright infringement intended music was used for entertainment purposes only credit to the rightful owner of the song #happyvalentines #valentines #perfect #combination #perfectcombination #love #february #food #maginhawa #quezoncity #coffee #bbq #chicken #pork #pasta (at Urban Chick Resto) https://www.instagram.com/p/CoYbvXUPPBV/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[writingwithfolklore]

Describing Foods - A Masterlist

                As a broke university student, I love reading about food. It’s almost like eating a real meal myself <3.

I get a little angry when characters are eating a meal and I barely get to experience it with them. In that, I mean I don’t just want to know what it is, but what it’s like to eat that food—how it tastes, smells, sounds, and feels. Is a perfect croissant still a perfect croissant without the crack of the exterior, the airiness of the pastry inside, the smell of yeast?

                Probably not. When writing about a dish, the smell, texture, technique, taste, and how it looks are all important to painting the experience, so here’s some words to use when describing a meal:

Taste:

Acidic: Sharp tasting. Often used to describe tart or sour foods as well.

Aftertaste: A different taste that remains in the mouth after eating something

Bitter: Tart, sharp, and sometimes harsh flavour.

Bittersweet: Less harsh than bitterness. Tartness + sweetness.

Bland: Has no significant flavor or texture

Briny: Just means salty. Often describes pickled foods.

Citrusy: Bright flavour like… well citrus fruits—oranges, lemons, limes, etc.

Cooling: Mimics that cooling feel—like mint.

Earthy: Reminiscent of soil. Can be used to describe wines, root vegetables, and mushrooms.

Fiery: Another word for spicy.

Fresh: Light and crisp—describes produce or herbs.

Fruity: Sweet and reminiscent of fruit.

Full-bodied: Rich and ‘feels heavy’ in your mouth. Can describe wines or soups.

Herbal: Bright, fresh, sometimes earthy from the presence of herbs

Honeyed: Sweet or candied taste like honey.

Nutty: Taste similar to the flavors of nuts. Often used to describe certain cheeses.

Rich: Full, heavy flavour. Often dishes that contain cream taste rich.

Robust: Rich + Earthy. Used for lots of wines or aged liquor.

Savory: Describes meaty, earthy dishes and soups.

Sharp: Harsh, bitter, or tart taste. Used to describe acidic foods.

Smoky: Reminiscent of the smell of smoke.

Sour: Biting, tangy, tart flavor.

Spicy: Burning taste.

Sweet: Sugary.

Tangy: Tart, biting taste—feels tingly

Tart: Sharp, bitter, or sour flavour. Used to describe acidic foods.

Woody: Earthy, sometimes nutty taste. Describes some coffees or cheeses.

Yeasty: Earthy taste reminiscent of yeast. Describes beer and bread.

Zesty: Fresh, vivid, or invigorating flavour.

Sound/Texture:

Sound has a lot to do with texture, so I've combined them for this section!

Airy: Light, pillowy texture (think inside of croissant)

Brittle: Hard but easy to break

Bubbly: Usually during heating, when bubbles rise to the surface—low sound.

Buttery: Smooth, creamy texture (think certain pasta sauces)

Chewy: Food that needs to be chewed thoroughly. Can be light and bouncy (chewy bread) or heavy (steak) and sticky (candy)

Creamy: A smooth and rich texture, comes from dairy.

Crispy: Light texture with slight crunch.

Crumbly: Food with loose structure that falls apart into crumbs.

Crunchy: Firm, crisp texture with a sharp, loud noise.

Crusty (behave): Food with a hard outer layer and soft interior (many loaves and breads)

Delicate: Light and fine, feels like it can come apart easily.

Doughy: Soft and heavy, usually pale colouring.

Fizzy: Usually liquids—a hissing sound, feels like ‘static’

Flaky: Light, characterized by layers that come apart during eating.

Fluffy: light and airy.

Frothy/Foamy: Airy bubbles, usually in a drink like a latte.

Gamey: Usually refers to meats when they’re very “meaty”

Gooey: Viscous, sometimes sticky texture from moisture in a dense/solid food.

Hearty: Firm, robust texture.

Juicy: Tender and succulent texture from liquid in a solid food (steak)

Molten: Hot, gooey

Oily: Slick, heavy, lingers on the tongue.

Silky: Fine, smooth texture that feels sleek.

Smooth: Texture free of grit, lumps, or edges.

Snap: A quick, sharp, crackling sound when broken.

Squelch: A soft sucking sound when pressure is applied. Somewhat gross.

Sticky: Gluiness in the mouth.

Succulent: Tender and juicy

Tender: Soft and easy to break down

Velvety: Smooth and rich

Smell:

Acrid: Strong, bitter, unpleasant

Comforting: pleasant, probably calls back to a nice memory

Damp: Wet smelling—probably a bit earthy

Delicate: subtle, faint, not overpowering

Earthy: reminiscent of soil

Fetid: Caused by decay—unpleasant

Fishy: reminiscent of fish

Floral/flowery: Reminiscent of flowers

Fragrant: Sweet or pleasing

Fresh: Cool, crisp, refreshing—produce, probably not cooked

Funky: Something’s gone off

Heady: Strong smell, pungent, rich

Musty: Not fresh

Perfumed: Pleasant, reminiscent of something (can be perfumed with citrus, say)

Piquant: stinging, pungent—tickles the nose

Powerful: strong

Rancid: Definitely gone off, decomposing

Ripe: Strong, usually unpleasant smell

Savory: spicy, salty, no elements of sweetness

Sour: has gone off

Spicy: Sharp, tingles the nose

Tangy: Strong and bitter but in a good way

Tart: Sharp

Woody: earthy smell, reminiscent of wood

Sight:

Usually texture gives us a really good picture of what a food looks like, so here’s some non-texture sight additions:

Blistered: Bumpy exterior.

Caramelized: Usually golden brown

Cloudy: Splotched. Almost see through if not for a slight white or grey mist.

Colourful: Bright and vibrant

Glassy: Resembling glass

Glossy: Smooth, shiny

Marbled: Two colours intertwined

Opaque: Not transparent. Can’t see through.

Ripe: Colourful (can be to a fault). Nearing the end of its edible state.

Scaly: Covered in scales, fish.

Shiny: Appears wet or glossy

Sparkling: Glimmers under the light

Stuffed: An ingredient placed inside a larger part with no additional space.

Translucent: Allows light through

Vibrant: Striking, bright

Food Prep:

How the food is prepared gives it these other attributes. If your character is familiar with cooking (or is the cook themselves!) they may describe food this way.

Baked: Cooked in an oven. Results in browned or crispy outer layer.

Blackened: When food is dipped in butter and coated with spices then cooked in a hot pan—spices darken, making it appear ‘blackened’

Blanched: Food scalded in boiling water and moved to cold water so it stops cooking. Texture comes out soft.

Braised: Food that is briefly fried in fat and then stewed in a pot. Results in seared, crispy exterior with a tender interior.

Breaded: Coated with breadcrumbs/batter then baked or fried so it turns crispy

Broiled: Food cooked with intense radiant heat in an oven or on the grill. Results in a darkened appearance and crispy texture.

Caramelized: Food slow-cooked until it’s browned, nutty, and has a bit of sweetness.

Charred: Grilled, roasted, or broiled and gains a blackened exterior and smoky flavor.

Fermented: Food that’s sat with bacteria, yeast, or another microorganism and has produced acids, alcohols, or gases. Results in a biting, pungent flavor. (Kimchi is fermented)

Fried: Food cooked by submerging in hot oil. Creates crispy, crunchy texture and golden colour.

Glazed: Food with a coating brushed onto its surface. Appears glossy with a thin, flavorful, and crisp outer layer.

Infused: Food steeped in liquid with another ingredient so it carries the essence of that ingredient. Used with herbs usually.

Marinated: Usually meat soaked in liquid containing flavourful herbs, spices, vinegar, or oil.

Poached: Food cooked in near boiling water. Results in tender, moist texture.

Roasted: Food cooked with dry heat in an oven or over the fire. Results in browned exterior and crisp coating.

Sautéed: Food cooked quickly in small amount of fat.

Seared: Food cooked in small amount of fat until caramelized. Finished by roasting or grilling. Results in crisp exterior and tender interior.

Smoked: Food exposed to smoke from smoldering wood for a long time. Results in that distinctive smoky flavor.

Whipped: Food beaten to incorporate air. Light and fluffy.

What did I miss?

[honeytonedhottie]

honeys guide to fall⋆.ೃ࿔*:･🧸💕

i am so so excited for fall 2024. this fall we're serving bambi doll, cupcake and espresso scented, french tips and nudes, crispy chocolate croissants and coffees, sweaters and mini skirts…💬🎀

FALL BEAUTY ;

♡ soft bouncy curls

♡ nude lip combos

i recommend the nyx butter gloss (madeleine) and the nyx chocolate lip liner for a pretty chocolaty look. if ur looking for another nude lip combo use the nyx butter gloss (angel food cake) and the nyx club hopper lip liner…💬🎀

♡ french tips

♡ nude colored manicures and pedicures

♡ marshmallow scented hand creams

as the weather gets colder it becomes more and more important to keep ur skin moisturized and hydrated. carrying around a sweet smelling hand cream can help your hands to stay soft and not dry…💬🎀

♡ fall scented lip balms, body nectars and fragrances

pumpkin, coffee, vanilla, cupcake, chocolate, cinnamon, caramel and buttercream scents are giving fall…💬🎀

lets talk fall beauty products and scents because my favorite part about literally everything is the pampering aspect and the smelling super yummy so lets get into it. the body products i recommend to capture that fall, bambi eyed, doll scent and vibes are.

the sugar cookie body wash from native

ooey gooey cookie body wash from philosophy

chocolate chip body wash from philosophy

all the cozy fireside s’more scents from bodycology

coco coffee body scrub from victorias secret pink

cupcake swirl body fragrance from bodycology

♡ for nails, tapered square french tips or oval shaped nails in nude colors

♡ claw clip hairstyles including half up-half downs or just a classic claw clip pony

FALL FASHION ;

fall fashion to me is tights and mini skirts. leg warmers and uggs and form fitting sweaters. let’s talk about some fall fashion. the tights and mini skirt combo is a classic and it’s an amazing way to incorporate wearing mini skirts even as the weather begins to get a little colder. the tights add a nice touch, even if it isn’t the color of ur skin tone, tights IN GENERAL look rly nice.

ankle boots, ugg boots, BOOTS are so so fall. i rly love ankle boots that have a heel to them and bonus points if ur fall shoes include fur. the fall shoes on my shopping list are ->

ugg boots

ankle boots

mary jane style shoes

ballet flats

form fitting sweaters and jackets are so in for the fall. along with tracksuits. the color pallete for having a bambi doll fall are very much browns, cashmeres, and baby pink. honestly think of neapolitan colours. pink, brown and an off-whitish almost pastel yellow. think PASTRY PRINCESS.

baby phat puffers are perfect for the transition from fall to winter and a good pair of jeans is CRUCIAL for fall. another thing i wanna talk about with fall fashion is LAYERING. layering is such an important aspect of fashion period but ESPECIALLY fall fashion. experiment with different lengths, textures etc. one of my favorite layering combination during the fall is ->

long sleeve tops with a camisole underneath

a form fitting long sleeve top (the ones with buttons at the front) look so DOLLY and adorable when u dont button it, and wear a camisole underneath. its just MWAH. some more fall fashion details also include ->

fur details

ribbons and lace details

delicate jewelry choices

tights and leg warmers

layering

boots

neopolitan cinnamon princess color scheme

long sleeves

mini skirts + tights combo

HOW TO BE A HOTTIE DURING FALL ;

to be a hottie during the fall lets talk about our fall essentials to be our hottest, healthiest and happiest selves this fall…💬🎀

♡ warm milk and honey with a pinch of cinnamon (a real treat)

♡ warm, buttery croissants

♡ wired headphones and a good fall playlist

a good fall playlist consists of artists like lana del rey, pink pantheress, sabrina carpenter and sade…💬🎀

♡ candles that smell like cinnamon cupcakes

♡ a few juicy novels to read

my favorite genres of books to read during this season include mystery, romance and historical fiction…💬🎀

♡ keep up with ur health

during the colder seasons its important to take good care of ur health so make sure that ur taking ur supplements/vitamins, drinking herbal teas and eating a balanced diet to avoid getting sick…💬🎀

[nikkento-writes]

Nanami is slowly sipping on his coffee at the dining table when you return home with the coveted box in your hands. You offered to pick up breakfast earlier this morning, promising to grab something extra special today, which you did. With a satisfied grin on your face, you display the box in front of him, waiting for his response. He glances at it, narrowing his eyes as if he’s trying to figure out what exactly he’s looking at. When he realizes what it is, his shoulders slump, giving you a disapproving look. “You didn’t.” 

You continue to smile at him. “I did.”

It’s a simple design of crudely doodled croissants with the words Petite Céréale scrawled across it. You heard about this online. Each piece is handmade the morning of, baked and buttered to perfection. Then, they’re dipped in a simple syrup, coated with cinnamon sugar, and lastly dehydrated. Because of this arduous process, it’s understandably the most expensive cereal in the world. And when you heard your local bakery would be making their own version of it, you knew you had to be one of the first to get your hands on it.

“How much?” His tone wavers on serious and amused, disappointed you’d give in to these silly viral food trends but simultaneously impressed by your tenacity to actually go through with it. 

You ignore his question, pointing at the box like one of those game show hosts presenting the grand prize. “Mini croissant cereal,” you say, hoping he’ll drop it. 

“Honey.”

“Mini. Croissant. Cereal,” you repeat with emphasis, beaming at him. “Just try it, Kento. If you absolutely hate it, then you can scold me later. But I have a feeling you’ll like this one.”

He rolls his eyes, crossing his arms over his chest. “I doubt it.” You can tell he’s remembering the last viral food you made him try, a ridiculously priced chocolate bar famous from Dubai. While it was good, he couldn’t justify the price you spent on them. For some reason, though, you’re confident in this one. 

You scoff at his pretend grumpy attitude as you rummage through your kitchen to retrieve a bowl, cold milk, and two spoons, one for you and one for him. Ready and excited, you sit next to him, opening the box carefully. His lips twitch, hiding a grin as he watches you, oohing and aahing over the outrageously expensive cereal. But even he can admit that the tiny golden croissants are impressive as you pull them out of the box. He lets out a soft, “Wow,” as your eyes sparkle, marveling at the miniature pastries. 

When you open the packaging, the overwhelming aroma of freshly baked bread and butter instantly fills your nostrils. As you pour a decent amount into the bowl, the crisp of the dough taps against the ceramic, making a delightful sound. You both look down at it, inspecting it thoroughly for any imperfections; there’s none. 

Nanami does the honors and splashes milk over it, making sure not to put too much to prevent it from getting soggy. Together, you dig in, doing a cute little cheers before taking a bite. 

It’s heavenly, like nothing you’ve ever had before, especially from a cardboard cereal box. It has the perfect texture; crispy on the outsides, but as soon as you bite in, it’s flaky and crumbly, like how a flawless croissant should be. Even with the sugar coating, it’s not too sweet. And paired with the milk, it’s the perfect combination. Absolutely divine.  

You’re enjoying the moment too much before you finally realize how unusually quiet Nanami is being. By this time, he’d click his tongue at you and tell you how he doesn’t like it or how it isn’t worth the money. But to your delight and surprise, there’s a very special expression on his face: bliss. 

You wait until he finishes chewing to nudge him softly, “Well?”

He breaks out of his reverie to clear a pretend scratch in his throat. Unconvincingly, he replies, “It’s okay.”

You smile, satisfied with his response, eating the rest of the croissant cereal together in peace. 

[nataliasquote]

Sun-kissed by an angel | n romanoff

summary: the perfect lazy morning in the Romanoff summer beach house

wc: 1.5k

notes: I know I’ve been MIA for a while, but I’m back with a short but soft and fluffy oneshot. I wish this was my life tbh, I feel like a beach holiday and a cozy morning with a hot girl would make my life so much better

-⧗-

The gentle tickle of the ocean breeze brushed across the sleeping woman’s exposed skin, stirring her from her heavy slumber with the promise of sun. It dappled through the open curtains of the balcony doors, but the light wasn’t harsh like it usually was. Many days had started just like this, crumpled sheets and exposed limbs being warmed by the dazzling sun. Y/n blinked to adjust to the brightness, stretching her limbs out across the expanse of soft white blankets, frowning as her palms landed upon nothing but fabric. The bed was larger, far bigger than any she’d slept in before, but it felt even bigger without her person by her side.

Waking up with the sea view directly in front of her was a dream but even the gentle rolling waves didn’t quite tug the smile back to her lips as she swung her legs out of bed and let her feet land upon the sanded hardwood floor. Without pulling on anything to cover her blue pyjama shorts set, she wandered down the hallway of the country style house, passing the photo covered walls and airy windows, until she reached the kitchen.

The radio on the windowsill crackled out nostalgic tunes and Y/n paused in the doorway, taking in the sight before her. The redheaded woman she adored with her whole heart was swaying softly to the music, the oversized white button down that adorned her body hanging loosely from her shoulders and stopping mid thigh. The large window above the sink was wide open, letting in a deliciousness to drift from the beach below and mix with the combination of freshly brewed coffee and the new bouquet sitting in prize position on the grand windowsill.

Natasha’s back was turned as she hummed to herself, allowing her wife a moment of admiration before she crossed the tiled floor and slipped her arms around the redhead’s waist. Natasha wasn’t startled, she was an ex spy after all, but her body immediately relaxed into the touch of her wife. They stayed embraced for a few moments, Natasha’s head tilting backwards to rest on Y/n’s shoulder behind her. She smiled lazily and brought her own hands up to grasp onto her lover’s, holding her tightly.

“Did you sleep well?” She muttered softly, goosebumps littering her skin as Y/n’s hands grazed her stomach.

Y/n hummed, turning her wife around so they were finally face to face. “I would have slept better if you didn’t leave before I woke up.” Her mouth pouted slightly but Natasha quickly kissed her lips, her remedy for unhappiness.

“I’m sorry, baby,” she apologised, “I just wanted to surprise you with breakfast.”

Y/n’s eyebrows furrowed at the mention of food. Her wife was a lot of things, but a cook she was not. She followed Natasha’s gaze to a pan on the stove where a sorry looking egg was cooking - or at least trying to.

“Tasha, honey… you haven’t turned the stove on.”

Natasha went to protest but Y/n pressed the button and turned the dial, the pair of them watching as the oil in the pan began to sizzle. Y/n smiled, trying to hide her laughter but Natasha caught her and huffed, sliding away from the stove and dragging Y/n over to the other counter, trapping her body in between the granite countertop and her strong body.

“How long have you been trying to cook that egg?” Y/n asked with fake seriousness, one which Natasha saw straight through. She rolled her eyes and pressed her hips forward, grabbing her wife’s face in her scarred palms.

“You’re lucky that I love you and will put up with this teasing after everything I do for you,” she grumbled, even though she wasn’t at all offended. Her wife was the light of her life and a far better cook, despite Natasha’s best efforts. She gazed into her love’s eyes, watching them sparkle in the sunlight and she couldn’t hold herself back anymore. Natasha pressed their lips together in a loving but firm kiss, almost like she was trying to kiss the smirk off her wife’s face. Her hands cupped Y/n’s cheeks with such tenderness that the other woman melted slightly, her body falling forwards into the comfort of her wife.

“You’re too good at that, my love, but that egg will burn if we continue like this,” Y/n started, trying to push Natasha away, much to the redhead’s disdain. The promise of breakfast was far in the back of her mind and she ignored Y/n’s help of protest when she grabbed the backs of her thighs and lifted her up onto the counter, spreading her thighs to stand between them with a smirk.

“You were saying?”

Y/n shook her head, a playful smile dancing across her lips. Her wife really was unbelievable. “At least turn the stove off, Nat. We just had this kitchen redone.”

“It’s barely warmed up.”

“And I know you. You’ll forget all about it and then complain when it’s black.” Natasha opened her mouth. “Don’t protest, you know I’m right.”

The redhead rolled her eyes but stepped away for two seconds, keeping her eyes locked on her wife on the counter as she fiddled around for the knob, turning it with a click. She raised an eyebrow, almost asking ‘happy?’ and Y/n nodded whilst beckoning her back over.

“That wasn’t hard now, was it?”

Natasha stayed quiet. Her fingertips slowly danced up Y/n’s bare thighs, tracing invisible patterns on her freshly tanned skin until they reached the hem of her shorts. Natasha laid her palms flat, suddenly looking up at her wife again through her lashes, giving her a look that melted the world away.

“Stop…” yet she wasn’t at all convincing. Y/n’s own hands absentmindedly drifted to the open collar of Natasha’s shirt, her collarbones just showing under the soft linen. “I love this shirt on you, my god.”

“Yeah?”

“Mhm,” Y/n hummed softly. She followed her fingers with her eyes, connecting the freckles on her wife’s pale skin across her chest. Regardless of her hours spent in the sun, Natasha was never tanned, but it only made her look more ethereal in Y/n’s eyes. Like an angel with a glowing halo of hair about her head.

They didn’t need to talk, not in moments like this. Their eyes spoke a thousand words, and the soft call of seabirds in the distance reminded them both of the life they now lived, the craziness of the Avengers a thing of the past. A slow life was their new normal, and Natasha had moulded into her new role surprisingly well.

“Why don’t we go to the farmer’s market today?” Natasha suggested, her hands still resting on her wife’s thighs, her favourite place to be.

Y/n narrowed her eyes, seeing through that innocent facade. “You want me to make my salad don’t you?”

Natasha grinned, moving her hands up to Y/n’s waist, pulling her closer until her legs wrapped around Nat’s waist and they were as close as they could be. Natasha was an utter simp for her wife, and she wasn’t ashamed of that. Not at all. She would get it tattooed on her forehead if she could.

“I do, but I also want to see you in a pretty summer dress in our town today.” Another weakness, Natasha was feeling extra soft today, and Y/n would never complain. Natasha’s possessiveness came out extra strong when Y/n wore one of her favourite dresses. They always attracted extra attention and there was nothing more that the redhead loved more than to slide an arm around her waist or stop her in the street and kiss her fiercely. Just to shut down the wandering eyes of the other men and women in their small coastal town.

“What my wife wants, she gets,” Y/n leaned down and kissed Natasha’s forehead before signalling to get down. “What about breakfast?”

They both peered over at the half cooked mess of an egg on the stove before bursting into laughter. Straight into the trash it went, that was clear.

“I’m going to take my gorgeous wife out for breakfast,” the redhead announced, twirling Y/n under her arm in time to the music still playing from the radio. “With the promise of properly cooked eggs and a beautiful view.”

“I already have a beautiful view.” Cheesy.

“Get out of here,” Natasha joked, administering a slap to her wife’s ass as she ran out of the kitchen and down the hallway, a redhead hot on her heels.

But their urgency to leave was short lived as Natasha tackled Y/n onto the bed, peppering her face with kisses as they rolled around on the crumpled sheets, acting more like teenagers than thirty year old women. But they were allowed to, Natasha had been robbed of a childhood after all.

Breakfast could wait, this morning was much more important.

[sigh-tofm]

if you’re a student… (some 18+)

… price

- keeps you company. he is well established and then some, and the stuff you study is way to advanced for any schooling he ever had, so he settles for helping you in other ways. if you study full time, you want for nothing. he makes sure your billing account is always topped up so you don’t have to work and gets all the shopping done for you. during your study sessions he’s nearby with the newspapers or a half-done report, making sure to keep both of your coffee mugs full. the night before big exams he gives you a massage and cooks a hearty meal to set you up for success.

- it’s not a secret that he finds you incredibly hot when you don your reading glasses and messy hair, no makeup on, and the fantasy of an old man like him having a darling little college student in his bed secretly drives him mad. so when you need to destress after a long session, he’s there to help.

… kyle

- studies with you. he probably has a little side project on his own - of course, he’s already set in his career, but he takes a local class every other semester just for fun. subjects like art history or food science, perfect stuff for tidbits and party tricks. you are very busy with your own studies so whenever he has free time, he sits down next to you in the kitchen or on the sofa with his own textbook and dutifully highlights important passages, while you scribble notes in the margins of your own textbook. you pull all-nighters together before big exams and read each other’s flash cards. he’s memorised your takeout orders and makes sure to keep you both fed.

- you both thoroughly unwind after, of course. at a point you’re so mentally exhausted that you just need to let loose and not think for a while. kyle obliges when you not so subtly slide your foot up his calf under the table.

… johnny

- enables you. johnny can’t sit still for more than a minute without anything to do, and being his significant other you sadly are the victim of his excessive energy. some days it’s enough to put on an action movie in the sitting room while you hide out upstairs or send him over to kyle’s for whatever they do together. other days you need to sternly send him for a run that lasts at least three hours, knowing it will knock him out after, giving you a combined four or five undisturbed hours of study time. occasionally you throw one of your theses or problems at him to get him to focus on something other than you, and if it’s within his field of interest he will fall quiet next to you and end up writing two or three pages explaining his own reasoning, citations and all.

- will always try to coax you to leave your books and come join him in the bedroom or shower. always nags that restitution is as important as the work in itself and won’t listen when you tell him it doesn’t work that way with studying. sometimes sneaks in between your legs under the table and laps at you until mess up your handwriting.

… simon

- tutors you. whatever it is you study, simon will become an expert in it by the time you’re ready to graduate. he gets copies of your textbooks and reads and annotates the same chapters as you do. he listens in on your online lectures and makes his own notes. he does all this partly out of curiosity, but mostly to be of assistance to you. before tests and exams he quizzes you and makes short writing prompts for you, forcing you to think about your material in new ways. date nights often involve flash cards (which tends to become a hilarious exercise after a few glasses of wine). it’s so important to him that you reach your goals, that he will spend hours of his own time to be able to support you as much as possible, in every way he can.

- he has more patience and endurance than you, so when you after six hours of repetition and revising lean back in your seat and lightly run your fingers down his back, he lightly swats your hand away and reminds you of the problem you haven’t answered yet. but after a little convincing, even he can’t resist your gentle request for long.

[shuaboo]

🍓boyfie ZB1 ft. bfs lil bro!yujin

🧺 lowercase intended // cw: other than a very small bit of swearing, none. // sry no wc im too lazy😭

🍰 a/n: sorry if this is quite messy, i usually open this draft at 3 am so my brains all fucked up n shit. yujin is included but he is not your bf bc i won’t write romantic stuff abt a minor due to my age ty.

bf!jiwoong who will always take photos of you and take selfies with you on his iphone with a blurry ass front cam :((. whether you’re on a date, just at home, running errands, on a walk— hes going to snap a pic. when you’re sitting beside each other sometimes he just lays his head on your shoulder or kisses your cheek and takes a selfie. just.. bf!jiwoong who is the complete embodiment of “take a pic, it’ll last longer.”

bf!zhang hao who is your other half of the olive theory. if ever there is an ingredient or food that you don’t like on your plate, all you need to do is ask hao because he’s probably going to accept. OR bf!hao who orders your usual order when you try something new, just incase you end up not liking the taste of your own order. for example: you want to try a new kind of coffee. hao always asks you if you’re sure before you try something new. when you confirm, he orders the usual style of coffee that you order. if you end up liking it… hao is happy that you like it and he doesn’t mind drinking your usual. but if it’s the opposite, he offers you his order— your usual, and takes the new drink off your hands and drinks that instead. AURGSHD i hope you guys get what i mean!!

bf!hanbin who has boyfie senses. he just knows everything about you, that’s how observant he is. he makes sure to observe a lot of the things you do, like, dislike, etc. he knows what type of hair tie you like, what glasses frame you prefer, how you fidget when you’re feeling anxious or nervous, everything. sometimes when you’re not feeling well and haven’t told hanbin yet, you’ll get a message from him asking how you are or if you’re feeling okay. it stuns you every single time he does it. it’s like he has connections to the system of your brain.

bf!matthew who is always down to try everything with you. i feel like matthew is very adventurous. if you want to try camping, he’ll do it with you and explain everything you need. if you want to try some new food, he’ll help you look for the place to try it. he’s always the one who takes and does your firsts with you. he supports your curiosity (most of the time) because he believes that it’s always good to try something new. basically just bf!matt who is your partner in everything.

bf!taerae who loves to sing for you, and would probably sing for you everyday if you’d just ask. taerae has such a beautiful singing voice, his voice is like pouring rays of sunshine, clouds, and rainbows into your ears. if you are having a hard time sleeping, all you need to do is lay against his chest and ask him to sing for you. the combination of his voice and his heartbeat is the perfect lullaby for you. when you’re on a road trip, a carpool session is essential! pro tip: do not challenge taerae with a karaoke battle, you WILL lose :P.

bf!ricky who WILL pay for everything. he does not let you take out your wallet, it’s always his treat. whether you’re on a restaurant date, shopping date, anything! he. will. pay! the only time ricky lets it slide is when you do errands together, but even then he still offers to pay. always expect “just because” gifts from ricky as well. because i do believe that he has a good eye, meaning that he knows what you like. so if he sees a piece that he thinks you’d look good in, he will 100% get it for you.

bf!gyuvin who loves couple trends!!!! i believe yes yes! matching outfits, tiktok dances, matching pfps, couple poses, everything!!! imagine going to the amusement park with gyuvin. you’ll have matching outfits on, you’ll do tiktok dances (ex: dsico by surf curse), take pics at the photobooth if they have it, take couple pics. every single person around you gets a slap in the face abt how single they are when they see you two. (i have another post abt gyuvin, also hcs/thoughts: thoughts abt bf!gyuvin)

bf!gunwook who props you up on the bathroom counter and stands in between your legs to do your skincare… when you’re feeling tired but you need to do your skincare, he’ll literally just do it for you. gunwook is strong enough to pick you up, put you on the counter, and then start doing your skincare. he doesn’t even need to ask you what goes first, next, and last. he has your skincare routine memorized!!!! all you need to do is just sit there and try to not fall asleep on the spot as he does his thing. you can trust that he knows your usual routine, your routine when you breakout, etc. skincare is something you and gunwook bond over as a couple. he loves taking care of you as much as he loves doing it for himself.

bf’s little bro!yujin who 100% loves u more than his brother 😎. when his brother takes you home he probably doesn’t approach you first, so you had to reach out. when he does get to know you, he thinks you’re pretty cool. he asks your boyfriend often if he’s taking you with him when they go out, since sometimes you do join in for some of their family outings. expect to be the in the middle of their bickering sometimes, siblings will be siblings. i think you’ll get to a point where yujin trusts you enough to sometimes talk to you about things he feels he can’t really discuss with his brother. he trusts that you won’t tattle on him, please don’t break it.

sorry for edging heres the yap sesh 🙏🏻

[basketonthedoorstepofthefbi]

"james taylor" - aaron hotchner x fem!reader

based on lumi's request here! you make soup on a cool autumn day with aaron c:

cw: nauseating fluff inspired by observing my parents' disgustingly adorable relationship, preestablished relationship, mentions of food

650 words

Fall always settles over Washington, D.C. like a blanket. The leaves all seem to turn at once, and the air has this fresh, crispy quality to it that’s almost addicting. Autumn is the best time of the year - all the colors, the layered clothes, the food. You’ve been craving a good, warm soup since August, but it’s been too hot out to enjoy it. 

But today is perfect. You have the windows of Aaron’s apartment cracked open, allowing the cool breeze to float like fairies through your home, ruffling the pages of the paperback on the coffee table and shuffling the curtains in a lazy dance. 

“Smells good, honey,” Aaron says, as you stand dutifully in front of the stove, wading your wooden spoon through the soup you’ve been working on since you arrived home from work about an hour ago. “New recipe?”

The gilded sunset peeks in through the blinds on this Friday evening.. It’s not fair that the sun sets so soon this time of year, and that you have to be at work when the world is so beautiful. But standing here, in the tiny kitchen of his apartment, with the autumn breeze whistling through the window above the sink, makes all of that a little better. 

“Yeah, thought I’d try my hand at a roux again,” you say as Aaron’s hands find your hips from behind. You have the Bluetooth speaker playing your favorite 70s hits, and a Jackson 5 song creates a jaunty backdrop for an otherwise very docile evening. 

You’re stirring the cheese in now, the last step after your roux, vegetables, seasonings, and broth have all melded together. The soup smells good - nutty, earthy, and creamy, and you’re excited to try it. Last time you made a roux, you didn’t get all the flour lumps out and you had to throw it out. This time, you’re hoping for some improvement. 

Aaron’s chin soon meets the dip between your neck and your shoulder, and you close your eyes for one peaceful breath, still stirring the spoon as if you’re on autopilot. “Thank you for making dinner, sweetheart,” Aaron’s voice is melted after a long day at work. Hearing him speak like this equates to watching ribbons of cake batter fall into a pan or a smooth, strong whiskey burning your throat in a pleasurable pain as you swallow it. 

His voice is rich and soothing and you only ever get to hear it like this when he’s that perfectly concocted combination of tired and content. He’s always tired, but content is a difficult state for him to achieve. 

“You’re welcome,” you coo, breaking out of the comfortable straitjacket that was Aaron Hotchner’s arms so you can grab your pot holders and move the dutch oven off the burner. “I think it’s ready now, too,” you add, turning around to finally face him. 

Aaron’s smiling at you with this thin line on his face, corners of his mouth upticked just slightly. He grabs your sweatshirt by the pocket and draws you closer, winding one arm around your waist just as the song changes to James Taylor. He’s never been a particularly good dancer, but he can do this just fine - swaying in the kitchen with the autumn breeze tickling the back of your neck. 

“Aren’t you hungry, Aaron?” You ask as you look up at him, cupping his face as you dance, making no move to stop swaying with him, even brushing your thumbs over the apples of his cheeks. “Soup’ll get cold.” 

“I happen to love cold soup,” Aaron cracks a smirk as you wind your arms around his neck.  

You balk at this playfully. “Is that so?” 

“Mmhm,” Aaron hums as you lay your head against his chest. His lips brush over the top of your hair and you think you understand what James Taylor means when he says that love’s the finest thing around.

[uhohnotthisagain]

Admiring Dean - Headcannon

Dean's turn!

Pairing: Dean Winchester x reader

Word count: 1.2k

Warnings: Dean being cute and soft, mentions of post sex, mentions of fighting, vampires, no swearing.

My masterlist

Whilst doing research:

The three of you; Sam, Dean and you, had been researching for hours. 

Because the bunker didn't have any windows, it was difficult to tell the time of day. 

You glanced at the little clock in the corner of your laptop screen, realising it was nearing 2 a.m.

Raising your arms above your head, you let out a yawn before collapsing in your chair. You look over at Dean, taking note of his furrowed brows as he concentrates on what he’s looking at on his laptop. 

You glance around him, noting the food wrappers and empty beer bottles, similar to your area at the table. 

For once, Sam was falling asleep at the desk, having grown too tired to keep researching despite the numerous cups of coffee. “Guys, I’m calling it a night.” He slams his computer shut and stands up, half-heartedly waving goodnight. 

Dean looks towards you, raising his eyebrows at you. “You ready to hit the hay too?”

You smile at him, nodding your head. 

He stands up after shutting his laptop, walking over to your side of the table. He’s wearing your favourite red flannel, sleeves rolled up, jeans and boots. The best combination. 

You look up at him, taking his hand that he had out to offer and follow him to your shared bedroom. As you get ready, you take glances to peak at him, enjoying the view of his torso as he strips out of his flannel and into a t-shirt to sleep in. 

You climb into bed, Dean climbing in on his own side. He reaches over you, hand on your waist,  pressing a quick but passionate kiss to your lips. 

“You know, you can always take a picture, I won’t mind.” He says with a wink. 

A blush creeps up to your cheeks, a small smile presenting itself. 

“Sorry, can’t help myself sometimes. You’re irresistible.” 

“Am I now? Would you like to show me how irresistible I am?” He raises a brow. 

“Oh absolutely.” You reply, wrapping an arm around his neck to pull him down back to your lips.

In bed: 

Dean was panting, laying on his back and staring up at the ceiling. He only had the thin motel sheet covering his otherwise naked body. 

You had just gone to the bathroom, having just finished up and walking back out to rejoin him.

His muscular torso was raising up and down with his breathing, his arms above his head, accentuating his biceps. 

He looks over towards you as you crawl back into bed, reaching out for you to lay on his chest. 

You stare up at him, brushing your hands through his hair. It was already messy, having run your fingers through it not 10 minutes ago. 

“I love you.” You whisper. 

He angles himself to be able to get a better look at you. “I love you. So much.” 

He presses a kiss to your lips. Different from before. Before was filled with passion. Need. This one was filled with love. Happiness. Contentment. 

Everything about Dean felt right. He was perfect. 

He presses a kiss to your forehead, pulling the sheet up over you, making sure you were covered and not too cold.

The two of you get more comfortable, facing each other, arms wrapped around waists, falling asleep not long after. 

When he’s asleep:

It was most mornings when you woke up before Dean. 

It was your favourite way to start the day. 

You opened your eyes, having woken up to the sun blaring through the window. 

You roll over to find Dean still asleep next to you.

He had one arm under the pillow, most likely holding onto the gun hidden under there. The other was stretched over the bed towards you, unconsciously reaching out for you. 

Your eyes mapped out his face, taking note of the freckles that dotted over his face, eyelashes that you envied lying on his upper cheek. 

His breathing was even, looking ever so peaceful as he slept. 

It had been a while since he had nightmares, stopping when the two of you started dating and sleeping in the same bed. You were glad that there was something you could do that would allow him to have much deserved moment of peace. 

“Take a picture, it’ll last longer.” Dean mumbled. 

You smile as he peaks one eye open. 

“What time is it?” He asks. 

“7:30.”

“Nope, we’re going back to sleep.” He pulls you to him by your waist, holding you there so you couldn’t escape. 

“Dean, we have to get up. We need to be in Portland in two days. Come on.” 

Dean groans, releasing you from his warm entrapment. 

As you get up to go to the bathroom, you take him in one last time. 

He furrows his brow as a flash goes off, opening his eyes to see your phone pointing at him. 

“Oops, forgot to turn the flash off.” 

He jumps up just as you start running to the bathroom, making it just in time to close the door before he can get you. 

“You’ll pay for that one, Sweetheart!” You hear. 

You giggle as you turn the shower on, smiling at the picture you took of Dean. 

When he saves you:

It was vampires. They were everywhere. 

There were more than you three had expected but you still charged in, slicing the heads off of the ones that charged at you. 

You had easily killed 15 each, but there were still more. 

You were starting to feel the fatigue of fighting furiously for the last half an hour, but you kept powering through. 

The grunts of Sam and Dean fighting could be heard in the background, which you used as fuel to keep going and not worry about them. 

When you thought you had gotten them all, you breathed a sigh of relief. You went searching for Dean and Sam, when another vampire came running at you from behind. 

You barely had time to scream, as the vampire grabbed you from behind, throwing you on the ground. 

You grunted as you hit the floor, rolling to get back up when the vampire climbed on top of you, fangs out ready to pierce your skin. 

She leaned down, her face quickly turning from anger to fear and shock. She fell off of you to the side, a knife sticking out of her back. 

Dean was standing behind her, holding a jar full of dead man’s blood. “Had to put this dead guy to use, hey?” 

You let out a sigh of relief, letting Dean help you up. He wraps his arms around you, kissing the top of your head. “You okay?” He asks.

“Yeah, you?” You respond with a nod. 

“Yeah.” 

Dean leads you out to the Impala, where Sam is waiting.

He squeezes your hand, opening the passenger door for you. 

“Am I not sitting in the back?” You ask. 

“Nah, Sammy can sit in the back for once. You’re sitting with me.” Dean respond. You look at Sam, silently asking for reassurance. 

He nods in return, giving you a smile before climbing into the backseat. 

You climb in, Dean closing the door and walking around to get into the driver's seat. 

As he drives off, you move closer to him, leaning against his shoulder. He wraps his arm around you, getting comfortable as you set off for the nearest motel. 

[housederiva]

Fantasic yes thank you @mt07131 It should be noted I am taking the hottest bubble bath of my entire life while I'm typing this and my skin is the color of Mr Krabs. (these are all cheeses that I have had before so my opinion of each is extremely biased)

We're starting with Neve. I know what you're thinking 'our dear detective has a food pyramid made solely out of the menu of a back alley chippy, obviously she's Kraft cheese or cheese whiz' and you are incorrect. Sit on the floor beside me while I take my bubble bath, we're going on a cheese discovery hand in soapy hand

Neve is specifically a combination of the two cheeses that are in these bad boys that you can find at Walmart for $15. With enough coffee and distractions you can live off these for an entire week. Each piece of cheese is about the size of a quarter, they're powdery, they don't melt well, and the only reason it's in your fridge is that someone brought it to the potluck and no one else ate any of it. We're ignoring the rest of the platter this is only about cheese.

Harding is a fried halloumi stick. It's squeaky cheese that is sooo good when it's melted and somehow still in stick form. The first time an only time I’ve had it was when I lived in the UK. A little cheeky Nandos with Harding? Come on now she's the one suggesting it. This woman eats ham and jam slams, she's eating cold hallumi (bad salty brick ew ew nasty), Taash's first complaint if they ever lived together that would be that they could hear her eating the leftovers right out of the fridge at 3am cause it's squeaking so damn loud while she's chewing

Bellara is the giant babybel. Pictures don't do it justice and the absolute glee of taking off the little jacket before you bite into it like a peach? Undescribable. There's not a doubt in my mind that this woman would collect the wax and leave it in a clump on her bookshelf where she would repeatedly tell you she's gonna do something with it. And yet it grows ever larger with every giant babybel. She's the small ones too but those are somehow worse because she just eats the entire bag of them the second she gets home (not that I do that every time or anything haha dont look in my trash rn)

Davrin is, without a doubt, apple smoked cheddar either from Wisconsin or Lancashire, there's no in between. Once this cheese is in your life you will be fundamentally changed as a person and you can never go back to the way you were. No other cheese holds the same richness and warmth as apple smoked cheddar (either from Wisconsin or Lancashire) It has like this sweetness from the milk in it that's balanced out with the smokiness of paprika. Davrin's bringing this to the cookout and you're going to thank him for putting it on your burger at least four times

Lucanis is Fulvi Pecorino Romano (yes it is Italian why do you ask) This is some of the most expensive cheese I've ever had which is perfect for the man who's offering to pay Harding 6,000 gold to stand around while he kills somebody and then asks if that's too low of an amount when she's speechless. This Romano is made from milk taken from a single herd of sheep that live just outside the city of Rome. It's got this a grainy, crumbly texture that I don't think I'll have anything like again. (I had it at a preview night for this movie I worked on for redacted, I think there was caviar there too it was insane)

Emmrich my sweet vegetarian (and vegan? idk) is Climax Blue cheese. It's plant-based blue cheese, streaked with a natural and flavorful blue-green veining. It is well-rounded, with a creamy, fudgy texture, and with fruity and earthy notes balanced by a warm peppery finish. It's made out of coconut milk instead of animal milk and it's got pumpkin seeds in it somehow. I'm not vegan but my best friend is and she brought me this one time from her work and I ate it all in about 20 minutes. Excellent with wine and those really thin tiny crackers, makes you feel the good kind of fancy

Taash is ghost pepper and fried onion cheddar cheese. Never been hurt by food the way I was hurt the second this touched my tongue. And the cool thing about it is it's also dairy free, and substitutes milk with hemp. The heat from the ghost peppers builds and mingles with the burst from the fried onions and each wheel is aged in a cheese specific cave before it's packaged. It also has that good glowy classic melty cheese flow when it gets hot. If you're like me and you are white people spicy smelling this alone will hurt you

[gremlin-girly]

Flufftober Day 17

Prompt: Bewitched

Pairing: Helmut Zemo x Reader

tags/warnings: Love at first sight, mutual pining, confessions, kiss, FLUFF

Although Reader's gender is not specified the translations below (specifically Vrăjitore) are feminine!

Summary: Bucky and Sam come your apartment for a few days to hide out and a certain Sokovian Baron is enamoured by you.

Word Count: 2.6k

Translations:

Draga - dear

Vrăjitore - Enchantress/witch (in the context below - it's enchantress)

A/N: I've said it before and I'll say it again - I'm a hopeless romantic. - Love, Grem x

Prev | Next | Masterlist

Zemo hadn’t known what to expect when the door to your apartment opened but it certainly wasn’t instantaneous infatuation. You were a friend of Sam and Bucky’s and somehow, somehow, got roped into helping them hide him. Despite the initial feelings of scepticism and meticulously planning his escape from the dingy apartment building, when you opened the door it all changed.

You were stood in your pajamas, rubbing your eyes, speaking in a soft sleepy voice that alluded to you either just about ready to fall asleep or you had just woken up. Zemo was staring and he knew it. Even though you hadn’t looked at him yet, you were the picture of perfection with your slightly tousled hair and the disgruntled expression you were giving Sam as he explained what was going on. When your e/c eyes finally flickered over to him, finally meeting his eyes, he felt his breathing stop.

“You better come in,” you sighed, stepping aside and allowing them inside your small apartment.

You immediately headed to the small kitchen-cum-living room, turning on your kettle and grabbing mugs.

“Tea? Coffee? Food?” You fire off questions in rapid succession but Sam nor James pay attention to you. They’d began a hushed conversation about ideas and plans in your living room. Zemo looked over to you and was surprised to see you were looking directly at him. He felt like a deer in headlights. He was at a loss for words. For once.

You raised an eyebrow at him curiously. “You... want anything?”

Zemo clears his throat and stiffly approaches the counter top that seperates the two of you. “Tea will do. Thank you.”

“I have earl grey and English breakfast,” You say, holding up the two boxes. “What would you prefer?”

Zemo blinks, his throat dry. “Earl grey, please.”

“Sugar and milk?”

Zemo only nods and watches as you turn away to prepare the tea. Surely, you knew he was dangerous? Surely, you had seen the news from years before? Surely, you knew you shouldn’t turn your back to him?

But you had. And Zemo was helplessly lost in you whilst the hushed conversation of Bucky and Sam drifted around the apartment. He couldn’t remember when he had last felt this way. It had been a long time, that’s for sure.

After five minutes you turn around with two mugs in your hand and slide one to Zemo. He carefully lifts the mug to his mouth and sips, relishing the sleepy warmth of the lavender drink. His tongue darts across his lips, something else is in the drink, making it ever so slightly sweeter. You register his expression and offer him a small, sheepish smile.

“I’m sorry,” you mumble. “I think I’ve given you mine. I always add a dash of vanilla syrup.”

Vanilla. Zemo’s eyes widen but he smiles and nods. “An excellent combination.”

Your smile brightens. Zemo thinks his knees might give out; that smile lights up your entire living room and you’re not even trying. He should be trying to manipulate you, make you uncomfortable; not nervously running sweaty palms on his slacks or being tongue tied. And you should be cold and harsh, threatening to maim him like Bucky or Sharon not warm, friendly and inviting.

“Have you ever tried an Edinburgh Mist?” You ask, eyes brightening with each passing second. Zemo briefly wonders if it's because your friends, the ones who have barely spoken with you, the ones who have landed a fugitive terrorist into your hands, have never bothered to indulge in the beauty that was you. He shakes his head gently, watching you speak.

“It’s like the cocktail London Fog but an actual hot drink.” You explain. “it’s earl grey with vanilla, with foamed milk and dusted with cinnamon. I loved it so much I had to start making it at home.”

Zemo finds himself smiling  over the rim of his mug at you. He hums in response, nodding a little before adding, “I may have to trouble you for one when you have the chance.”

You scoff a little, suppressing what looks to be a blush and Zemo’s heart does a flip. Unfortunately, you’re both torn away by Sam and Bucky wanting to talk strategy.

The next few days feel like a dream.

Zemo practically follows you around like a love sick puppy, offering to help with everything he can. Laundry. Cooking. Cleaning. Each time you dismiss him, citing that he is a guest in your home and will be treated as such. Your mother didn’t raise you to be unwelcoming.

When it’s clear he doesn’t really know what to do with himself, you roll your eyes and pretend you’re so hard done by with the lack of help you recieve from Bucky and Sam, that you’ll gladly take Zemo’s company instead. Which he humbly (albeit very enthusiastically) accepts.

As you do chores, you chat about anything and everything. His favourite books, your favourite shows, his music taste, your favourite foods. Whilst you cook he watches eagerly, asking inquisitive questions and occasionally teasing gently to make you laugh. Part of your brain believes it to be a ploy, as does Sam and Bucky. Some grand manipulation that they had warned you he was capable of. But somehow you doubted it. There was something about how he made you laugh, how he always acted the gentleman and offered his help, something about the softness in his eyes that you knew he meant every word he spoke and action he did.

Perhaps that was what caused the argument between you and Sam.

“He’s a terrorist,” Sam snapped at you on the fifth day. Bucky was out and Zemo was in the shower, making it an opportune time to discuss the behaviour Sam had witnessed over the last few days. “And a master manipulator. You should not trust him.”

“God forbid men have hobbies.” You quip. Then seeing Sam's frown you sigh.

"On a technicality, you are too." You point out, scrubbing at a dish violently. Anger had bubbled inside you at the subtle accusation that you were falling for a manipulation, especially when said terror had been placed in your lap. “You brought him here as well.” You huff with agitation.

It was Sam’s turn to huff. “You don’t get it. He’s dangerous.”

You slam the scourer down and glare at Sam. “No, you’re not getting it. You brought him here. Hell, yesterday you and Bucky went out and left me with him for hours.”

Sam opens his mouth and closes it again, at a loss for words. He knows he can’t argue against that and he knows damn well better than to try.

“Just... be careful. Okay?” He grumbles, heading to the spare room. “That’s all I ask.”

Once the door is closed you roll your eyes and turn back to the sink, haughtily mimicking Sam’s words. You startle when you hear Zemo chuckle from behind you.

“Apologies,” He murmurs, looking over  at you with a smug smile. “I didn’t mean to frighten you.”

Whether or not it was his intention, you know that he isn’t sorry about it at all and it makes you smirk back. As with everything the last few days, you can’t seem to find yourself to be genuinely upset with him.

“It’s alright,” you sigh, drying your hands. “Tea?”

“Please, dragă.”  

You blush at the use of the nickname, but turn away quickly. This was another ritual that had formed in the last few days, and you would be lying if you didn’t enjoy the sweet nickname he’d given you and the way his honeyed eyes followed your movements. You didn’t want to tell him you knew the meaning. That you’d briefly dabbled in learning Sokovian. Something about him using his native tongue to compliment you, believing you had no idea what he was saying as  he looked  at you,  made your heart beat faster and your fondness for him grow. Again, this only made arguments of him manipulating you weaker; why say things to you that you couldn’t understand? Quick compliments or praise in a foreign language he thought only he could speak, muttered under his breath that made your resolve crumble apart like a cookie dipped in hot  tea. You couldn’t deny that he had charm but something else drew you to him. It was like you were under a spell and the thought that he may have to leave soon was too much to bare.

“You know,” Zemo started, voice quiet. He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the countertop. “I’ve noticed that they don’t appreciate you, dragă.”

You turn, eyebrows high, mid-stir of the teas. “What?”

Zemo’s eyes drop to his hands. “Perhaps I am out of line,” he says carefully. “But you are correct in that all of us being here was sprang on you. Yet you welcomed us, even me, into your home without hesitation. You have cooked meals, offered your shower, home and did laundry... and only once or twice I have heard a thank you.” He looks up, meeting your eyes with his. His expression is soft, almost apologetic. “So, thank you, dragă.”

You blink at him, slightly shocked. So, he’d overheard your argument with Sam. He could’ve taken a different route; planting seeds of doubt about your friendship with the heroes, allowing tendrils of resentment to grow and blossom into anger. However, he hadn’t. Zemo had only pointed out the truth of the current situation; you had accepted the bizarre situation to help your friends and hopefully the betterment of the world without question and without thanks. Your mouth opened to defend Sam and Bucky, but your mind faltered trying to find an example from the last few days.

In fact, Bucky had grumbled his thanks of a coffee once and Sam for his food once. Zemo had been trying to help you for the past five days and somehow always managed to thank you and compliment you. Heat rushed to your cheeks and you snapped your mouth closed. You shrug half heartedly and remove the teabags.

“Thank you.” You murmur and then realise it sounds like a very stupid thing to say back. “For saying thank you? Sorry. Um.”

You turn back, handing him his tea but not meeting his gaze. You’d already learned to make it how he liked. That was probably not a good sign. You clear your throat.

“I appreciate it.”

There’s a beat of silence and you look back at him. He smiles. You smile back.

Your heart beats a little faster than before and you shift on your feet. You’re being drawn in again.

“Anytime.” Zemo bows his head to you, still smiling, his tone utterly sincere; like he would never tire of thanking you. His gaze meets yours again and he exhales gently. “You... are something else. Do you know that?”

You tilt your head at him, smile widening to a lopsided grin. “No? How do you mean?”

Zemo huffs through his nose, chuckling slightly. “You have bewitched me, dragă. From the moment I saw you.” He takes a sip from his mug watching you with a mesmerised expression. In a low rumbling voice he adds, “Vrăjitore.”

Your breathing stalls for a moment. You don’t think anyone has ever looked at you like how Zemo is looking at you; like you’re almost too good to be true. Your stomach twists into knots and your heart and mind race to try to come up with a quip or statement as equally romantic and poetic as he’d uttered but you can’t.

When you don’t respond, Zemo steps away, looking at the floor. “Forgive me. I’ve said too much.”

“No!” you blurt suddenly, and cover your hand with your mouth. You cringe slightly and smile sheepishly at Zemo, whose tilting his head curiously at you now. “I thought it was just me.” You say lamely.

Zemo’s eyes widen and a smirk tugs at the corners of his mouth but he says nothing as you rake a nervous hand through your hair.

“So....” You start awkwardly, wetting your lips and dropping your hand from your nape limply.

“So.” Zemo repeats back to you, his eyes sparkling. You can feel your heart thunder at the sight and you open your mouth to continue  but Sam erupts into the room.

“We need to go,” He says hurriedly to Zemo, throwing on his jacket. “Bucky and Sharon have ran into some trouble.”  

Zemo nods, setting his mug down and striding to the coat rack for his purple fur coat. Sam shoots you an apologetic glance when you ask if they’d be back.

“We may have to find another safe house. We’ve stayed here for too long, you might get caught being with us.” He shrugs. “But thanks for everything. I owe you one.” Sam grins over at you cheekily and adds, “and so does Bucky.”

“As do I.” Zemo adds, smiling softly over at you as he straightens the  collar of his coat. Sam looks like he’s about to shush Zemo when his phone rings. Sam’s expression turns serious and he stalks for the front door muttering instructions to either Bucky or Sharon.  He points at Zemo before he opens it. “Parking garage in five minutes. Make sure you’re not followed.”

The door closes behind Sam before  he sees Zemo nod and make his way back over to you.

Zemo stands before you, looking down at you with the same wondrous expression he had before. He’s close but not too close; a polite distance even after  everything tonight.

“So....” You start again, smiling wryly at him. “I guess this is goodbye?”

“For now, vrăjatore.” Zemo says with a gentle smile. A gloved hand reaches up hesitantly to cup your cheek. You can feel the heat of his palm through the leather, and you lean into it; searching for his warmth. Your eyes flutter ever so slightly and you heave a sigh. Just your luck.

“I’ll find you once the dust settles.”

You raide an eyebrow at him and chuckle. “And I’ll be waiting.”

Your own hand encompasses his on your cheek and it feels like an eternity passes as you both stand in silence gazing at eachother before Zemo leans down and places a chaste, tender kiss to your lips. Your heart stutters and you move to follow his lips as he pulls back, making him chuckle.

“I’ll find you,” he repeats, firmer this time. “And then you may kiss me for as long as you wish. Until then, duty calls.”

He grins at you again, adoring the flushed expression you’re wearing, but pulls further away from you. Your arm stretches out, still holding his hand and with one last, small squeeze you release him; watching him stride out of the front door and follow Sam. The silence in your apartment is palpable, and when you remember to draw a breath, the air is stale and dry. You sigh to yourself and finish your tea while replaying the events of the last hour.

 You hadn’t seen Zemo in two months.

That hadn’t meant his presence was missing.

The mission had finished a month ago, however, Zemo was still currently on the run. Bucky and Sam had attempted to find him but from what they had told you, they had assumed he was long gone in some faraway island, living it up. But you had known better.

Lavish gifts from expensive chocolates to tea had appeared at your apartment. The latest was the newest, beautiful bouquet that you had centred perfectly on your coffee table, somewhere you could look upon it everyday, and a pack of cherry blossom tea. You took photos of all of your gifts and added little notes of them into your phone – as you had no way of contacting the Baron, you ensured you could thank him for each and every gift he’d bought for you when you saw him in person. Bouquets came every ten days like clockwork – as soon as one bouquet wilted, the next would appear to take its place. The gifts would be every two weeks. Maybe, you joked with yourself, so it didn’t seem like it was excessive to send two gifts every week.

The only indication that it was Zemo sending you these items was because each gift came with a small 6-by-4 card with one word written in plum-purple cursive.

Vrăjitore.

[unhinged-simp]

LOVE YOUR HC!!! Can I ask for Haku, Romeo, Sho, Subaru courting the reader? And maybe a jealous HC if you are comfortable haha (could be combined to one or separated HC)

Haku, Romeo, Sho, and Subaru Courting Reader HCs(Gender Neutral Reader)

Of course! Thank you for requesting.

Ahhh thank you!

I'll do a separate jealous HCs since I didn't really include it in this post. I wasn't as well versed in courting hcs as I was in dating hcs, so I hope you enjoy.

Spoilers for the Hotarubi chapter in Subaru's part

It happened one day, out of the blue, when Haku asked you if he could court you. 

When you agreed, Haku began.

It started with texts. You two would converse whenever you had free time.

The texts ranged from ordinary school life to the flirting that Haku did occasionally. 

Next, Haku would give you little gifts. Flowers, little keychains that reminded him of you, plushies, and many more gifts.

And finally, he planned out many dates.

Restaurant dates were the first kinds of dates you went on. Then you went on trips to amusement parks and arcades. Now you guys go on little fun dates.

Haku would make sure to set boundaries between you and him.

If you enjoy physical content, he would make sure to initiate it. If not, he'd respect it.

Haku would ask Subaru and Zenji for advice for courting.

You would meet with the other ghouls in Hotarubi very often, having tea parties and talks.

Even though he's busy most of the time, he always makes time for you.

Romeo is a bit worse with courting. He didn’t even tell you he wanted to, he just started doing it. 

When you told him that you’d go through with the courting, he didn’t really react besides a “good choice” and a smile, but inside he was ecstatic.

Romeo was not that great at flirting at first, often times more of a backhanded compliment than a real compliment. Though after some conversations with Rui, reluctantly, he managed to get the hang of it.

The gifts Romeo brought you were oftentimes things he uses and owns. 

Similar clothes, the same perfume he wears, and even similar sunglasses. He also gets you lots of flowers.

Even with his busy schedule, he managed to plan dates. 

Fancy restaurant dates were the most common, although if you expressed interest, you could convince him to go to an aquarium, amusement park, or site seeing different spots in Japan. 

Romeo is very possessive and proud. The gifts he gives you are his way of “marking you.” 

He'd only be affectionate in public if it was a way to brag about you, and the fact that you’re the one dating the great Fico. 

He would actively keep you away from Taiga and Rui, especially Taiga. 

He’s always eager to meet up with you whenever his work ends.

Sho doesn’t really know how to court properly, but that still doesn’t stop him.

After much consideration, he asks you if could court you. 

He already texted you a lot, but he ups the romance a bit. He tries to flirt with you, but it ends up failing, at least you got a smile out of it. After lots of research he starts getting the hang of it.

Sho learns your preferences to pick out perfect gifts for you. 

He gives you your favorite flowers, clothes he knows you'd like, and jewelry that you love.

Though he does buy you small things like coffee and food.

Dates with Sho are often held at your dorm with a home cooked meal made by him. He does take you on amusement park dates, arcade dates, and even cooking dates.

Sho does enjoy physical touch, and often holds your hand. Kisses and hugs are saved for private. He loves cuddling with you.

He actively keeps you away from Leo, but he doesn’t mind you being around Alan. 

You’re his encouragement, and he looks forward to whenever he gets to see you.

Subaru is a mess when it comes to courting you. When you approve of him courting, he nervously starts.

Subaru’s texts are polite and romantic. He doesn’t know how to flirt, so he often asks for advice from Haku and Zenji. 

Subaru uses his stigma to learn your preferences, which helps him not overthink presents for you. He also gets help from Haku about gifts for you.

Lots of flowers, jewelry, and little trinkets are given to you by him. He gives you a pretty decorated good luck charm that he made.

Subaru’s dates are pretty chill. He takes you to watch Kabuki, you two have little tea dates, and you take little walks through scenic places. 

Subaru doesn’t like physical touch due to his stigma, but if you do, he’ll deal with it. He does like hugging you, he just wishes his stigma doesn’t activate.

You have tea and snacks with Haku and Zenji occasionally. Subaru sometimes joins in with them when he isn’t busy. 

[isaacswhy]

dating isaac & yumi hc's? 👀🙏

dating isaac & yumi hcs

chill chaos. like they go from chilling in your room one minute to yelling because something got them in a mood to debate

these two are genuinely really smart but when you put them together they are. so fucking stupid

you try to keep them on task if they need to do smth but it always ends in you guys doing literally nothing productive

the two tall boys of tgc. isaac and blake are both over six foot so there's probably a height difference going on here

cuddles. blake is less cuddly but loves it anyways. he won't usually go out of his way to cuddle but he's so down if you initiate it

isaac on the other hand BEGS to cuddle. comes in your room like "baby can we lay in bed and watch tiktoks :("

sometimes blake walks in on a cuddle sesh and just casually joins without saying a word

other times it starts as them both cuddling you and then somehow they're cuddling each other? neither of them say a word abt it

literally they both eat so much. you wonder how their combined doordash spending hasn't put them in debt (they are both dashpass members)

sitting in one of their rooms and they just go 'oh hey i ordered us food' like ??? okay sure

when it's the three of you the feasts are legendary. literally nothing goes to waste because they have an innate ability to smash food like it's nobody's business

so they both like quality time and physical affection but their TRUE love language as a poly couple is gift giving but it's just food giving

the munchies are insane

if it's your thing, the three of you get high together quite frequently. it's nothing too much but you just have some edibles that either isaac or blake bought and chill

although none of you are really vloggers there's constant content on your ig stories of each other doing random shit

every few months you and isaac fill some random part of blake's room with plastic balls. it's tradition

if you choose to be in your gym arc you have a bf for it. if you choose to be in your lazy arc you have a bf for it. perfect halves

dinner dates are most common but also they do like a good clothes shopping trip. it's mostly isaac but

blake likes to take you (and isaac) to obscure places he finds in town. abandoned malls, petting zoos, cat cafes, you name it

they are also both amazon impulse buyers. both blake and isaac will randomly come to your room with a giant box and it's some random shit like a barbie dreamhouse

both of them like when you play with their hair. you sometimes nag isaac about getting his hair cut but it's fun when it's long

you tell blake not to cut his hair and when he inevitably does you and isaac both clown on him for looking like an idiot

the group chat of you three consists of some strange memes and tiktoks. there's not really an explanation to them they just send em

you have seen them actively get into an argument about who wants to go out and get your morning coffee shop order more. like it's a competition or smth

both like to surprise you with things but are terrible at hiding it

blake streams on twitch and you and isaac just chill in the call with him while he games and yells at shit

you both fuel chat and get him upset because you run channel point predictions as to whether he dies or not

they're great bfs.

I LOVED THIS like they're my second favorite i think for poly ships. i hope you like it :D

[galacticghoste]

Guatemalan Miku 🇬🇹

sketches :p

Silly lil fact about me both sides of my family were farmers back in guate one side specifically focused on coffee which is what my ver of Miku is holding since they start out in a cherry like fruit.

I wanted to play around with the color scheme of the Guatemalan flag as well as the national bird

The Quetzal bird (I love them they are so pretty!!!) found it perfect that they had teal and green so I made that her hair color.

Also cool fact theres a dish in Guatemala called Chow mein con tostadas (which is what miku is about to eat) and I just find it fascinating how two cultures combine their foods

[redrandomposts]

feeling embarrassed writing this. anyway, have some lukaivan before R7

idol/actor au (...not quite like off the record)

=====

luka watched, with empty eyes, his two juniors. it was almost amusing how ivan chased futilely after till. it made luka... want to control him? not in a creepy way, but rather, take care of ivan. his heart seems rather fragile for someone like till to take hold of it.

is it the heartbreak reflected in ivan's eyes, his words, his every action? luka can't quite decide, but he's sick of seeing it. they're being put in the same group, and he can't have any of that near him. and, well, if the best way to do that is make ivan fall out of love with till...

luka looks at ivan again. he's alone, now, looking at the pencil he'd stolen forlornly.

...then isn't he a perfect candidate for a "second chance at love?"

of course, that's not easy to say. luka has three easy steps for this, though.

getting his contact was easy. knowing that they're being put in the same group together, no guards were raised for that. a good morning text here, a good night text here, a check-in during lunch...

finding his schedule was even easier. considering the amount of time ivan spends alone with till chasing after mizi, luka integrated himself in quite well. two coffees in the morning for himself and ivan, a break in practicing with two cold drinks, and spending a late lunch together.

hanging out outside of the company building was unnecessarily difficult. luka supposed it was because of their upcoming debut; their workload was gradually increasing, from practice to photoshoots. he managed to pull ivan on a "dinner date" to discuss their duo. then three days later, they were going to the park. in gradually settled into a dinner once or twice a week.

===

ivan has found that his routine had changed imperceptibly yet entirely one night. his thoughts and knowledge, too, had expanded to include another person; luka.

he isn't sure how it happened. in the morning, a bit after he first gets to the building, luka will show up with two coffees. if it's an "important" date, there'll also be pastries to share. they started to practice together in preparation for debut, and they'd have a five-minute break chatting. (previously, ivan had saved that time to take a look at till a few floors below.) they'd get a bit too engrossed in their practice and have a late lunch down the street, luka somehow able to eat two people's servings of food during the fifteen or twenty minutes they spend eating. they'd practice for a while, and normally on fridays or tuesdays they'd have dinner together discussing their upcoming debut.

ivan's grown to know that luka prefers cold, sweeter drinks like frappuccinos, he can eat really well, and has the flexibility of a gymnast. he knows classical literature but would rather hear ivan's interpretations of it, and he writes songs to reflect a distorted reality. he's taken ballet classes when he was younger and had had chronic migraines up until a few months before joining the company.

it's... unnerving, how easily ivan got that information. with till, he's had to keep careful watch since they were children to know that his favorite food were any combination of meats and spices, that he drew breathtaking scenery and flowers, and that he's composed music since he was five. with luka, it was as natural as breathing.

it was refreshing.

as months passed, ivan found himself on stage, side-by-side with luka, overlooking fans the company had gathered pre-debut. he found that this was what he wanted in the future; back to luka's, or next to each other, or looking at each other, sharing the same love for music or whatever else they may be.

===

it was a marketing gimmick by the company. as the world grew more tolerant, the company naturally had to follow; even if that meant taking a newly-debuted idol pair and smushing them into boyfriends for the stage.

it's not as if they had to kiss, though. his manager had made sure that ivan wouldn't be forced to do more than heartfelt gazes if he didn't want to. curiously, ivan wanted to feel what luka's lips would be like on his.

he had never kissed another, after all. between till and school or work, there wasn't a carnal need.

so, one night while they were livestreaming, ivan had asked luka. and, five minutes later, he knew;

luka's lips were soft yet cold, tasted like the dinner they had together, and he was quite domineering. he didn't only kiss with his lips - he used his hands and pulled him in, caressed his hip or thigh or face or whatever he could grab ahold of. he didn't care for an audience, but would rather not get ivan implicated by turning them so that only the back of luka's head could be seen.

as luka pulled away and looked in his eyes, ivan could tell. ivan had fallen in love, yet again, and this time it was reciprocated.

===

till stared at his phone, stomach churning. his timeline, the traitor, had been filled with ivan's new relationship as if it were a dedicated page for it. from debut to now, he'd seen ivan less and less. gritting his teeth, till turned off his phone and looked at his most recent composition. he'd lost all inspiration.