#Plate type heat exchangers

[coltgroup]

Plate Type Heat Exchanger

A Plate Type Heat Exchanger plates are simple to maintain because they can be taken out and cleaned separately. But, since they may gather debris or smell, you should avoid them.

[yanderenightmare]

TW: implied nsfw, implied noncon/dubcon, poly yanderes, sprained ankle, captive reader, apocolypse au, talk of fertility, murder of unnamed characters, mentions of potentially killing reader

fem reader

Just thinking about the apocalypse, the two army men who’ve long survived it in their shelter with barely any trouble, and then you, a poor girl trying hard to outrun your last captives only to run into them.  

You didn’t realize back then that it was like trading piranhas for sharks, too caught up in begging for their aid to think better of it. You should have just kept running, but your ankle was sprained badly, maybe even broken, and you were wearing so little you would most likely have died from the cold during the night if they hadn’t taken you in.

It seems unfair of them to have kept the giant bunker all to themselves, only the two of them, but you don’t judge. You would likely have kept it all to yourself as well.

This new world has bred new humans, and they’re all monsters. It’s honestly quite surprising they’d even let you in, given this is what they’re protecting, this sanctuary from the past, a comfort most people would kill their closest friend in exchange for.

Trust is all but dead, and so is honor or any other morality—you would know, you’ve lived out there for it all, only having survived by spreading your legs at the right moments. It’s a shameful tactic, and many times, you’ve wondered if it wouldn’t have been better to spare yourself and just die. What was the purpose?

This—you think. This must be it. They have showers and working hot water.

You don’t know how it’s possible—the original owners of the shelter must have been some type of millionaire. You haven’t had a warm shower since the world went to shit—years ago. It’s been a choice of waiting for rain or finding a lake, hoping it wasn’t rancid. Meanwhile, they have soap—scented soap, the lush kind you’d forgotten existed. It feels so nice you have to cry—rejoice—sobbing while lathering yourself, watching all the filth go down the drain, leaving you smooth-skinned once again for the first time in forever. You can’t remember having ever been so clean before, feeling reborn.

They have fresh clothes for you too—new socks and underwear, all clean fabrics, so much more than what you wore—pants, a shirt, and a sweater to keep warm. You didn’t know there still existed people who lived like the old days—you’d thought it was long gone, a bittersweet dream you sometimes have the pleasure of at night instead of the usual nightmares. Never had you thought you’d experience anything even remotely similar, but here you are—looking yourself in the mirror after so long, surprised to see a human looking back at you.

And they feed you. Not scraps, not leftovers, not rot, or days-old flesh from the last successful hunt—but freshly baked bread, vegetables, fruit—for fuck’s sake, they even have juice. You cry again while eating, and then you find yourself begging them again, “Please, let me stay—please, I’ll do anything. I can cook, clean, work—anything at all, I can do it, just please let me stay…”

You’re on your knees, forehead pressed to the heated metal floors—toasty and comforting, you think you could sleep better than ever right there.

“We’ll think about it,” one of them mutters as he gathers the plates. His voice was so harsh he might as well have said, not a chance. It’s clear by his frown that he’d rather send you right out again, leave you to the monsters.

“We’ll at least let you stay until your ankle heals, so don’t worry.” The other is more sympathetic, helping you up. “For now, let’s get you to bed. You must be exhausted.”

It hadn’t crossed your mind that they’d have beds—actual real soft downy mattresses and duvets and pillows. The two of you help make it together. It feels so foreign that you wonder if you might have died earlier. Some years back, you wouldn’t have thought heaven would resemble a prison cell, but now it only made sense—safe metal walls and a bed. What more could one possibly want in the world?

“I’ll wrap your leg for you if you sit.” He holds out a bandage roll, gesturing to your ankle.

Blinking, you can’t even register what he’d just offered until he’s getting down on his knees before you.

You panic, then. Bandages are hard to come by—it hardly seems worth it. “There’s no blood, you shouldn’t waste it—”

“It’ll heal better and faster this way,” he adds reassuringly. His voice is so soft and compelling that you find yourself sitting down without further quarrel, even when it makes you feel spoiled.

He’s gentle with you—holding you steady while wrapping it just tightly enough to be supportive. There hasn’t been a man who’s touched you like it.

“Does that feel okay?”

You can barely tell he’s talking to you. It’s all so lost on you that you can only wordlessly nod your head.

He fastens it just as carefully before standing. “Is there anything else you might need?”

You shake your head just as wordlessly. You can’t believe how nice he’s being. It makes no sense at all. Not in this world. Not anymore.

“I’m sorry, but I’m gonna have to lock the door,” he apologizes with a sheepish look once standing on the threshold.

You’d been stuck thinking about how warm the room was, trying to remember a single time you hadn’t been freezing during the night. “That’s okay, I understand,” you say. After all, what’s a locked door in comparison?

“Good,” he smiles—it’s likely the kindest smile you’ve ever seen. “Alright then, good night.”

Once again, you’re left stunned. The last time you’d heard those words spoken must have been from a loved one long since dead. It makes your lip wobble again as you say it back, “Good night.”

It's strange—they could have left you for dead but didn’t. They don’t seem gullible—they can’t be if they’ve managed to protect this place for so long—but you suppose there still exist men who have a soft spot in their hearts for helpless damsels in distress.

As you sink into the comfort, draping your duvet atop your battered body, you don’t even care about the camera in the ceiling—blinking red while watching you.

“Did you have to bandage her up?” he grumbles as the other walks into the bedroom after having said his goodnights to you. 

He’s already in bed, observing through the cameras on a tablet—you were currently curling into the duvet, wrapping it around you close for comfort. You’d likely not slept on anything so soft in a while—it wouldn’t surprise him if you preferred the floor. But no, you drift asleep quite quickly.

“You know how badly things can heal without proper support,” the other answers, regarding it as no big deal. “And besides, it’s not like we often need it—we have plenty to spare.”

He removes his clothes and crawls onto the bed as well, lifting the covers to slot himself right next to the other man, who still has a scowl on his face.

“Oh, come on…” he drawls. “She’s exactly what we’ve been talking about, isn’t she?”

The grump doesn’t answer, still with keen eyes watching you, even as you’ve fallen asleep—as if waiting for you to do something befitting a wild animal in a cage. The other’s eyes fall to the screen as well, but he only awes in delight.

“Look at her, already fast asleep,” he purrs while zooming in on your face. “I mean, did you see how she was begging earlier, what she said? I’d do anything,” he continues, almost whining. “So cute, I could have fucked her right then and there.”

The other man sets the tablet aside with a disagreeing sigh. “We’ll wait at least a week for her system to detoxify from the wasteland,” he says strictly. “I’m not touching her before then, and neither are you unless you want to sleep alone.”

The other groans then, flopping down on his back. “Yeah, yeah, you and your safety protocols,” he dismisses before a smirk creeps up his face, glee twinkling in his eyes as he looks up at his grouchy counterpart. “But then we keep her, right?”

“Tch—we don’t even know if she’s fertile. The wasteland could have made her barren as long as she’s been out there,” the other shuffles down into the sheets as well, turning to look at his partner and the awfully keen look on his face.

“So we test her. Give her a medical check,” he says, again as if it’s not a problem, even when it very well could turn out to be.

They’ve already broken quarantine rules by letting you in here—and who knows what your real objectives truly are.

“I don’t trust her,” he states.

The other pouts. “I don’t see what one little lady can do—she’s hardly a threat. And we already purged the group that was following her. I doubt any of them made it out alive.”

True, he had gone out and sent several gas grenades into the settlement. Surely, none of them managed to escape, but then again—

“Pest control only works when you kill them all, and we’ve just let one inside our own house,” he grumbles.

The other one sighs. “Okay, so if it turns out she isn’t as cute as she looks, we’ll deal with her like the rest. But if I’m right, and she really is just a harmless little thing, we keep her, and I get to have the first go.”

Suppose there isn’t anything better to do aside from killing you straight away, which would only have been a waste of food, water, clothes, and bandages. 

“Fine.”

The other grins at the agreeance, humming, “I guess until then, we’ll just have to make do with each other—I've been hard since we watched her shower.” He leans forward for contact but is shut down as his bedmate rolls around with his back turned to him.

“Tch—take care of it yourself.” Tonight has been too stressful to tug each other’s dicks. 

He can hear him whine behind him, but he settles down soon enough.

Suppose it would be nice fucking a woman again. It’s been so many years he figured he wouldn’t need it anymore. They’ve made do with each other so far. But even he can’t deny, once you’d washed all the blood and muck off, once he saw the dewy hue of your soft skin and the silk of your hair, all those plush curves, and not to mention that awfully sweet look on your face—he felt the tug in his pants too.

He'll do a medical check on you tomorrow. He hopes you’re fertile. But even if you’re not, he might give in to the other’s wishes and keep you anyway. After all, they might have many luxuries, but the comfort of pussy is one they haven’t had in a long, long, long time.

♡ BNHA – KiriBaku, BakuDeku, ShinKami, DabiHawks, EndHawks, ErasurMic ♡ JJK – SatoSugu, ItaFushi, SukuIta, ♡ HQ – Miya twins, KageHina, BokuAka, ♡ CSM – AkiDen, YoshiDen ♡ BLLK – NagiReo

♡ FEM x M INSERT masterlist ♡ GN x M INSERT masterlist

[jaysteels]

Titanium Heat Exchanger manufacturer, supplier, exporter - Jay Steel Corporation

Jay Steel Corporation is a popular name in manufacturing, supplying, and exporting high-class products like Titanium Heat Exchanger. A titanium heat exchanger is a device that transfers heat between two fluids while keeping them separated. The titanium heat exchanger is designed to withstand extreme temperatures and pressures, making it ideal for use in harsh environments. Its unique properties allow for efficient heat transfer and prevent the build-up of harmful deposits, which can reduce the performance and lifespan of traditional heat exchangers.

[jupitersolar]

About Solar Water Heater

About Solar Water Heater

Definition of a solar hot water heater or solar hot water heater

Introduction

Definition of a solar water heater

Definition of a solar water heater, solar energy (solar heat or solar power) is the heat energy produced from the heat energy of the sun (solar radiation) used to heat water in a solar water heater. It can be described as the heat of the sun. Solar energy is also defined as the total radiated power (also called radiation) of the sun from the sun's surface to the top of the atmosphere, in any direction.

However, the energy is directly converted into usable heat through a solar energy collector (solar panel). Solar energy collectors can be either flat or in the form of a structure such as the structure of a building, called a "solar thermal array."

When a water heater runs on the energy from a solar collector, the solar collector is referred to as a solar hot water heater. When a building is heated by the energy from a solar collector, the solar collector is referred to as a solar hot water heater.

Benefits of using a solar water heater

Solar water heaters are a unique appliance that is beneficial for an eco-friendly home. They have become a main stay in the home improvement industry for energy saving and comfort. These systems are not meant only for water heating. They can also be used for a hot water system. Read on for more on how they are different from other types of water heaters and how they can benefit your home.

What are solar water heaters?

Solar water heaters are the simplest of all the water heaters, They store energy in the form of heat and are effective for domestic or swimming pool applications.

The simplest kind of solar water heater is the storage water heater. It is often used in homes and residential buildings.

Solar water heaters provide hot water all through the day without the use of gas or electricity. When they are set up in a pool, they can provide enough hot water to serve all the needs of the pool and the home.

Solar water heaters are easy to install, operate on the principle of a water-filled tub, and are quite efficient.

Types of solar water heaters

Solar water heaters are the simplest, most economical and versatile type of solar energy. You just need to place a collector, pump and storage tank on the roof or at the desired location and the rest is up to you, that is the beauty of solar water heaters.

Types of solar water heaters:

1. Direct heat Solar water heaters:

Direct heat solar water heaters are also called solar water heaters, which is the most common and simplest type of solar water heaters and consists of a collector, a storage tank, a heat exchanger and a pump. A typical direct heat solar water heater might use a solar energy to preheat water in a storage tank. When the water heats up, it goes through the heat exchanger, turns into steam and is sent to the boiler for generating electricity.

2. Hybrid solar water heaters:

Hybrid solar water heaters are usually used for smaller applications in regions with a large demand for water. They are cheaper and give better performance than direct heat systems. A typical hybrid solar water heater uses electricity to preheat the water in a tank and later that preheated water heats up the tank, and the preheated water is then fed to the boiler for generating electricity. A hybrid solar water heater has storage tank, heat exchanger and a pump. Hybrid solar water heaters are used in places that have high temperatures and low rainfall.

3. Hot water solar water heaters:

Hot water solar water heaters work like the both ways like solar water heaters. This type of solar water heater works for hot water applications. They are mainly used in small scale hot water heating applications.

4. Pump only solar water heaters:

Pump only solar water heaters are mostly used for small scale hot water heating. A typical solar water heater includes a pump, a collector and a storage tank. They are usually placed on the ground, although they can be installed in a different position as well. They are also can be cheapest type of solar water heaters.

5. Solar water heaters with storage tanks:

These are used when the storage tank holds more water than the collector is able to heat. They are also called solar tank solar water heaters, which are available in different sizes and shapes. They require less installation and are easy to maintain.

6. Space water heaters:

Space water heaters are the space-saving solar water heaters. They are mostly used for hot water heating. They heat water in a tank that’s placed on the ground. Their primary use is for saving space, but they’re also used as a hot water heater. They are available in different shapes and sizes.

Solar panels or collectors

Solar panels or collectors on their roofs, energy efficiency, renewable sources, and alternative energies.

If you didn't pick the most environmentally responsible option in your home, you can't be too happy about it. Now that you're aware of the environmental implications of the energy you use, it's time to take control. How? There are lots of ways to choose more environmentally friendly options and save energy. This page contains information to help you find environmentally friendly ways to help you save energy. What if you have a programmable thermostat? It's smart and you may want to change your settings from "high" to "low" or even have the thermostat programmed to be off at certain times during the day.

Heat exchanger

A heat exchanger is a device used to transfer thermal energy from a source to a sink by means of a fluid called a heat transfer medium or carrier.

Types

There are many types of heat exchangers. They are classified based on their operating conditions and mode of heat transfer. The basic types are:

Tube heat exchanger Plate heat exchanger Direct expansion heat exchanger Rotary heat exchanger Recuperator

Storage tank

A storage tank is a large-capacity storage vessel that is used to store liquids, such as gasoline, propane, fuel oil and chemicals. Tank capacity typically ranges from a few tens of gallons to tens of thousands of gallons, and the capacity can vary considerably. Storage tanks may be used for different purposes such as: storing fuel for transportation vehicles such as airplanes and automobiles; storing fuel for heating; storing food for home consumption and industrial use; storing industrial chemicals; storing water for human consumption and industrial use.

A storage tank is often referred to as a 'tank' or a 'storage tank' and may be referred to as 'cistern' or 'reservoir' .

Solar controller technology that is often used in homes and business is known as the photovoltaic. The solar panels are a device that is used to convert the sunlight into energy. This technology is highly useful in our lives. It has now made technology more comfortable and affordable. The solar panel works using a device called a solar cell. It uses the sun to produce electricity from the energy from the sun that are gathered from the sunlight. When you are using the solar cell technology, the solar panel is a device that has a panel that the sun shines on it and converts the solar energy into electricity to use. Solar panel systems are usually installed on the rooftops. It generates electricity with the use of sunlight. It is one of the most efficient energy sources today. This is because it has a lot of advantages over the traditional energy sources.

The solar energy systems are the most reliable in the solar energy field today. Solar energy is a powerful and useful source of energy. It is the number one form of clean energy today. The technology that is used in the solar energy system is very popular. It is because the solar panel and the solar cell are very useful and powerful.

Solar pump

Solar pumps are water pumps that operate using solar power. They can be considered to be a type of solar photovoltaic energy converter. While many other devices use photovoltaic cells to convert sunlight directly into electricity, solar pumps use one to produce a mechanical advantage to directly drive a pump. Their main advantage is they are simple and cheap to manufacture, in comparison to more complex systems.

A solar pump works by placing a photovoltaic panel that has an area of area much larger than the cross-section of the tube that the pump is running through. An electric current is created as light shines onto the panel. This current is then used to drive the pump. By using a mechanical advantage, the electrical energy generated is increased. The mechanical advantage can be obtained by using a gearbox, or by a motor-generator or alternator. One to two solar panels can be used to operate a large volume of water, such as domestic or agriculture water, and can be an attractive alternative to electrically powered pumping systems.

Types of solar water heaters

Passive solar water heaters

The purpose of passive solar water heaters is to collect heat from the sun, and radiate it to indoor areas. A passive solar water heater is also known as a passive heating system.

In the last few years, the importance of energy efficiency has increased dramatically, and it has become more necessary to develop energy-efficient and easy-to-operate technologies. Among these, those involving passive solar water heaters are a suitable solution for new homes or additions, especially for buildings where the heating system must be simple and low-energy-consuming. The cost of the passive solar heaters is usually lower than the traditional ones.

Active solar water heaters

The most affordable solution in a modern and efficient environment?

A solar heater or solar water heater can provide the thermal heating of a domestic water supply when you do not have central heating and, in the absence of sunlight, can supplement your home heating needs.

Solar heaters are designed to heat water on site and can work in a number of different ways, each offering a different combination of functionality and efficiency.

Flat plate collectors

Flat plate collectors are devices in which the output from a solar cell array, solar collector. A known flat plate collector comprises a stack of solar cells mounted on a plate having a relatively high thermal conductivity and having a relatively large flat face. A heat transfer fluid, such as molten salt, is circulated to one or both sides of the stack, and in use, the plate is heated by radiation from the stack. The plate and the stack are made with low thermal resistances. In this known collector, a heat transfer fluid is circulated to both sides of the stack, and the stacked solar cells generate a direct current (DC) output. The DC output from the solar cell array is connected through a bridge rectifier to the top of the stack, and the top of the stack is connected through a pair of switches to the top of a boost circuit. The boost circuit comprises an inductor, a pair of capacitors connected to a high voltage DC output, and a boost switch. When the switches are closed, the output from the inductor charges the capacitors, and the voltage across the capacitors will be increased

So if you want to use solar energy in the home, how do you choose which type of solar water heater to buy?

We’ve come up with a guide to help you identify which model is right for you.

So if you’re looking to buy a new solar water heater then this guide can help you decide which is best for your home.

1. How often do you use the water heater?

If you have a low domestic water use, you will need a small solar water heater, as larger water heaters are used less often.

You can expect to use your solar water heater for about a day a week, however this can vary.

If you use your solar water heater every day, you will save money as the batteries last longer and will need charging less often.

If you use the water heater occasionally, then a larger model will be more energy efficient.

2. Do you need heat all year round?

We suggest that you need your solar water heater all year round in most parts of the country. If you can avoid using a solar water heater in winter, you will save money and avoid a power consumption of up to 25%.

However, in tropical climates, solar water heaters can work in summer because there is a higher temperature rise.

3. Is cost an important factor in your purchase?

The higher price tag is offset by longer life and increased efficiency. However, your initial installation costs should be considered – a larger unit will take longer to install and your roof will be a lot bigger.

4. What is the size of your domestic property?

If you need to heat a larger amount of water for your household, then a larger unit will be more efficient.

5. How close does the water heater need to be to your property?

Solar water heaters need to be located on your roof. This means that a lower unit is better for properties located a long distance from your house.

6. What is your climate?

A solar water heater needs to be exposed to direct sunlight.

Evacuated tubes

Evacuated tubes and/or a series of tubes of a multi-level fluidic circuit(s) can be combined into one housing to create a modular fluidic circuit. The term “evacuated” refers to a tube wherein there is a chamber or space or compartment there within, and wherein the interior or interior portion of the tube is separated or isolated from ambient air and/or other fluid(s) by a relatively thin sheet of material such as metal, ceramic, silicon or other suitable materials. It is known to provide an integral sealed interface between the evacuated tube and a portion of a housing so as to form an evacuated, or vacuum, chamber within the housing.

Advantages of using a solar water heater

Cost savings Environmental benefits Reliability Longevity

How to choose a best solar water heater for your home

Assessing your hot water needs Size of the solar water heater Comparing different types of solar water heaters Considering installation and maintenance costs

Conclusion

Recap of the benefits of using a solar water heater, buy solar water heater,contact Jupiter Solar www.jupitersolars.in . Encouragement to consider switching to a solar water heater.

[harrygoeswest]

Friday Night

A Friday night gig featuring London, a Lime bike, and Harry Styles as your doting date.

992 words of fluffy nothing for the lovely @harry-on-broadway’s little fic challenge. I haven’t written anything Harry-related for a while so apologies if this is trash <3

~~~

It’s officially scarf weather, you decide, as you stand outside the Roundhouse one early October evening, scarf-less.

The temperature has dropped, you’ve pulled your winter coats out of storage, and your ears get cold on your morning walk to work now. Part of you is relieved—the heat was starting to bother you, make you lethargic and tetchy. Another part hates that flu season is imminent. But…Halloween.

Pros and cons, pros and cons.

While you wait, you watch the pedestrians idle on by, and the traffic creep past in that typical Friday night crawl. Commuting anywhere is hard. Commuting in London is like suffering in the fiery pits of hell. But this is what you signed up for, and in all honesty, something about the hustle and bustle of city living settles something in you, as strange as that sounds. You’d never been stagnant, and it’s hard to reach a point like that in a place that never sits still.

With a boyfriend that never sits still.

Speaking of…

A man on a Lime bike rings his bell as he passes by, and you can’t help the roll of your eyes. You watch as he brakes to a stop in the nearest bike park, and bury your nose beneath the warmth of your coat. Your eyes track his movements as he swings his leg over, secures the bike and ends his trip on his phone, before stalking in your direction.

He’s wearing simple grey wool trousers, one of his many Mickey Mouse t-shirts, and a navy shirt over the top with his black Vans. His hair is styled in this strange faux hawk, mullet type way again, that on anyone else you would hate. But on him…?

Nope. Not at all.

You take in a deep breath, anticipating that expensive cologne he always wears, and your mouth waters when it hits your nostrils. You release your inhale on a sigh.

“I think,” you start as he halts right before you, green eyes smiling downward into yours, “at this point, it’d probably be cheaper to invest in your own bike. You know?”

He purses his lips. “I’m giving back to the community.”

You bark a laugh. “Is that what we’re calling it?”

Harry grins, then leans down to press his mouth to yours in a chaste kiss. “Hi.”

“Hi.” You match his smile and kiss him back. “No bumbag today?” You jest, peering around his waist and hips for any sign of his ‘banana’ bag.

Now it’s his turn to roll his eyes, but it’s all in good fun. “Not today.”

You kiss your teeth. “Shame.”

He takes stock of you then, eyes roaming your bundled up frame. “Are you cold?”

“Just a bit.”

“Should’ve put a scarf on, baby.”

“I know,” you whimper.

“Ready for some food?” He points to the door of the restaurant attached to the venue.

“Yep.”

He saunters past you, snatching your hand up as he goes.

“Harry?”

He halts, turns back to you with a comically expectant look, and lowers himself at the waist until you’re eye-to-eye. “Yes?”

“Got the tickets?”

His expression freezes, and he does this nerve-wracking, panicky pat down of his chest, hips and backside before he relaxes, clicks a finger at you, and says, “On my phone. You can do that these days, you know?” And then pecks the tip of your nose with his lips.

You playfully whack him in the chest. “Fuck off.”

Inside, music is playing at an almost obnoxious level, only made worse by the fact that it’s one of Harry’s old songs.

You say old, because it’s just turned seven. “Aw,” you coo.

Tables upon tables are full of pre-gig goers grabbing a bite, talking loudly and boisterously. Thankfully, one of you was smart enough to book ahead, so when you speak to a host, you’re taken to one of only two free tables and handed over menus.

Dinner is spent sharing stories of your day, exchanging easy banter and casual affectionate touches. You steal food off Harry’s plate when he’s not looking, and he steals food off yours when you are looking without an ounce of shame. Once the bill is paid, you head inside the venue hand-in-hand.

You find a corner out of the way but with a good view from the balcony, and Harry glues himself to your back, arms wrapped tightly around you—taking up position for the rest of the night.

When the band starts, he bobs and sways with you in his arms, singing along to the words while his chin rests on your head. He dances more during the upbeat songs and leaves little kisses to your cheek and neck during the slower, sadder songs, but whatever his mood, he’s infectious, and you can’t help but join in.

At the end of the night you filter out into the cold October night air.

“Your place or mine?” He asks as you wander away from the crowds, his hand still clutching yours tightly.

You pretend to think about it. “Your bed is bigger.”

“That’s always your answer.”

“Then you should know better than to ask.” You give him a saccharine smile.

He pinches your cheek. “Your place is closer.”

“My place is a dump at the moment.”

“When have I ever cared?”

“You should care.”

“I really don’t, though. Mine isn’t exactly tidy either.”

You peer up at him, and he turns an indulgent smile on you.

“Fine,” he concedes. “We can go to mine, but we’re going on a bike.”

“The fuck we are. I’ll go home by myself in that case.” You start walking the opposite way, but Harry drags you back towards him with ease.

“The fuck you will.”

Then, right there in the middle of a still busy London pavement, he cups your cheeks and kisses you. And like the helpless fool you are, you let him.

“I’ll get us an Uber,” he says against your lips.

Your grin is triumphant.

~~~

Peace and love, friends :)

[gojo-mochi]

Hiiii ❤️ May I (pretty) please get a short steamy "what are we?" reader with Nanami showing her exactly what they are? TvT

im so SORRY IT SO LONG JUST SKIP TO WHERE IT SAID "A short drive..."

˖◛⁺⑅♡ Female Reader

˖◛⁺⑅♡ Warnings: Bit of crying from reader, small emotional breakdown.

˖◛⁺⑅♡ Sexual Content: Creampie, Mating press, ,Praises, Nicknames: "Love, Princess,"

˖◛⁺⑅♡ Word Count: 3.6k (im sorry...)

The first time you and Nanami stumbled in bed together was on a night where you two were both working overtime. Both feeling frustrated at the shitty higher-ups who kept piling work on you with no expectation of a raise. You and Nanami weren’t that close before, just regular work colleagues for the most part, but with the power of hating on the same thing, that night you and Nanami grew closer than you could have ever imagined. 

 What started as a boring work night turned into a shit talking fest about your managers, which turned into you asking Nanami out for a drink and then ultimately into you drunkenly stumbling into Nanami’s apartment and on to his bed. His hands roaming on your body, your own hands grasping on to his hair as he tears your work clothes off of you. Your bodies entwining with each other in a heated, intoxicated mess, you two gave into your wild desires with no remorse that night.  

Well, at least the remorse didn’t really set in until the start of the early morning. Waking up alone in an unfamiliar room, with various love bites and marks scattered across your body. Your head throbbing trying to look for an answer to what happened, then the smell of coffee and cinnamon hits your nose.

Nanami walks in the room, looking just as disheveled as how you felt but still giving off a look of elegance as he walks forward towards you. Holding a mug of coffee and a plate of cinnamon pancakes in his hands. Greeting you with a warm smile and joining you on the edge of the bed, handing over the food that you gracefully devoured. 

As you were shoveling the fluffy morsel of food in your mouth, Nanami gently recapped what happened last night. Then, when he was done, he turned to you with a soft smile and brushed some hair stuck to your cheek. His fingertips were warm, and his smile was soothing to your soul. He leans in to kiss your forehead and murmurs softly that he wants to continue forward with this relationship with you. 

With pancakes still stuffed in your cheeks, you could only nod in agreement with him; you did want to continue whatever this was. Nanami smiles wide and cuddles close, resting his head on top of yours as his arms delicately wrap around you so as to not hinder your movement.  

“I’m glad you agree, Y/N…” 

You murmured back in agreement. I mean, who wouldn’t want to be in a relationship with Nanami? The only thing was that you didn’t really know what kind of relationship you were agreeing to. Did he mean a casual relationship, friends with benefits type? Or did he mean like a real exclusive relationship? Your head was too full of mush to ask at that moment. 

You didn’t get a chance to ask Nanami what he really meant by it, since work got more chaotic, your bosses got even shittier, and the overtime got longer. Which leaves no room for an exchanging of words when Nanami pulls you into his arms after every shift and you two both fall into bed together again and again. The sex was even more amazing when you can remember all of it, and Nanami was still sweet and caring afterwards as well. 

So you just kept falling deeper and deeper in the hole, falling more in love with Nanami every day, unsure of what to call your relationship.

It was another late night at the office; your eyes almost bloodshot from how long you've been staring at the computer screen. You don’t even check the time when you feel Nanami pull your chair back and gently hold a hand over your eyes. 

“It’s time to stop now, darling. I’ll take care of your workstation; just go and pack up; I’ll be with you soon.” You felt his lips kiss the top of your head as he pulled your chair out some more and shut down your computer. You gather up your items and your bag as you groan and stretch out your weary limbs. Trudging over to the elevator while you wait for Nanami to be done—this was almost like a routine you guys do every night now. Nanami always volunteers to clean up after you, like the gentleman he is, and then you guys go back to his apartment to relieve some stress. 

A short drive in Nanami’s car and up the elevator into his apartment, walking into the familiar area, you take off your shoes and coat as Nanami follows in behind you. Hands on your shoulder, his lips on the back of your head, ghosting down to the nape of your neck as his hands go to your chest. 

Unbuttoning your top as you stumble your way into the bedroom, turning around to meet Nanami’s lips with your own. Your shirt fully unbuttoned at this point as his skillful hands go to do the same to your bra. Slowly pushing you backwards until you reach the bed, he pushes you down gently so you sit down on the edge of the bed. His lips leave yours to trail down your neck, leaving kisses at every moment. 

Nanami then kneels down, his hand going up from your waist to your shoulders as he discards your top and bra, throwing them to the side. Kissing down the middle of your chest, making you giggle a little as he gets to your belly button. He stops the kisses there as he goes down further to take off your shoes one by one, then back up to undo your pants, giving your thighs a soft squeeze in the process. 

Down to just your panties now, you take a glance to look at Nanami, finding his eyes to be full of desire and hunger. He parts your thigh apart, continuing his mission to mark every inch of your body with kisses. Taking a cheeky bite on the inside of your thigh as his hand massages the other one. His kisses get wetter and sloppier as he gets closer to your panties, until his nose is pressed right up against your clothed clit.

You shudder as you feel Nanami taking a deep inhale in through his nose, basking in your scent. His eyes half-lidded as he pulled himself impossibly closer to your core. There was a stark difference between the Nanami you’re seeing now and the one at work. The one at work being more stoic and calm, having an unshakable sort of demeanor about him. 

While Nanami right now… is acting like a dog in heat, shaking his face back and forth on your damp panties. Getting your scent all over his face without an ounce of shame in him, just pure carnal desire radiating from him. You make a move to grab a lockful of his hair, making him groan loudly. Eyes blinking up at you, just full of intensity. 

“Na-nanami…A-ah!” 

Nanami pulled your panties to the side with his teeth, exposing your wet cunt to the open air. Poking his nose right on your slit, wetting the bottom half of his face in your juices, Nanami pulls back with a soft grin on his face, hearing your cute little whimpers from his action. 

He gives a small kiss on your throbbing clit and goes back to rubbing his cheek between your legs. His deep voice murmurs out as he continues to get your scent all over him. 

“I keep telling you to call me Kento, darling, I really want to hear it coming from your lips....” He fiddles with the hem of your panties as he looks up at you, awaiting your answer. 

Your hand goes back to pet his head, feeling his fluffy hair gliding in between your fingers, stalling for time as your mind mull over how to answer that. Calling him Kento feels like it would be a huge step in your relationship. Even though you guys had sex multiple times before, calling him by his first name just felt so personal… 

Does him telling you to call him Kento mean that he wants this relationship to go to the next step? Is it already on that step? Or is this just a kink of his, and you mean nothing to him?

All these questions swirl in your mind, the silence in the room growing too long for Nanami’s liking, so he gets off the floor and envelops your hand with his. Catching your attention as he leans in closer to you, kissing your knuckles softly. 

“Tell me what’s on your mind, my dear? It pains me to see you so worried.” 

Your heart twists at the sight of Nanami looking at you so worryingly; your voice catches in your throat, and you start to feel tears well up in the corner of your eyes. All the emotions you were pushing down came rushing back up all at once in this moment. Nanami instantly got up on the bed and went to hold you as soon as he saw the first tear fall down your cheek. 

Holding you against his chest as you try to voice out apologies in between your cries. He shushes you gently, having no need for your apologies; he only responds in a worried tone. 

“What made you cry, my darling? Was it something I did?” 

Hearing how sincere he was made you even more ashamed of your hot tears. You buried your head on his shoulder and mumbled out a quiet reply back.

“N-no, it wasn’t you. I just.. I don’t know.. I just don’t know what I am to you.” 

You felt Nanami's whole body freeze right under you, your heart dropped at the feeling and you were quick to spew out apologizes again for making the mood awkward. Nanami leans away and tenderly places his hands on your cheeks, his thumb wiping away a stray tear coming down. 

His face and voice were full of confusion as he asked you what you meant by that. You swallowed dryly, scared to say anything more that might ruin what you have with Nanami right now. But, you can’t just pretend like everything was fine after you cried in front of him, so you took a deep breath and asked the question.

“What are we?”

Time seemed to stop as soon as the question left your mouth; Nanami didn’t even blink, just staring at you motionless. Your heart sank to the bottom of your stomach; you fucked up; you felt like you fucked up so bad. You need to do something to fix this; try to talk your way out of it or say you were joking or-

“Darling.” 

Nanami's voice broke the silence first. His hands were still holding your face so delicately like the slightest pressure might break you. He leaned forward until the gap between you two was only an inch. 

"Oh, darling, this was all my fault. I should have made it clearer what you truly mean to me.” 

He tilts his head and leans forward fully this time, until his lips press against your. Tongue slowly coming out to trace your bottom lips, wetting it nicely and gently prodding until he could slip it inside. His hands move to the back of your head and to the small of your back as he closes the distance between you and him even more. 

Taking your breath away with each swipe of his tongue on yours, pushing you down onto the bed, his body still attached to yours. Breaking away just for a moment so he could take his own clothes off, annoyed at the lack of skin to skin contact with you. Tearing at his own shirt and pants at a rapid pace, just because he couldn’t bear not touching you for even a second. 

Nanami cups your chin in his hand as he starts to pepper your face with kisses, murmuring sweet praises that leave you both embarrassed and joyful upon hearing them. 

“My dear, have you not noticed what you have been doing to me all this time?” 

Smooch Smooch Smooch

He places kisses on your brow, your nose, and your cheek. 

“You’re the reason I actually look forward to coming to work every day.”

Smooch Smooch Smooch

More kisses on your lips, down your neck, and then back up to the lobe of your ear.

“I am never letting you go, darling. My entire body and soul were captured by you, long before we shared our first night together.” He chuckles, his nose bumping along your hairline as he takes in a deep breath of your scent. 

“I am all yours; your mere presence is enough to shake me to the core. So, you ask what you mean to me?”

“Darling… You mean the entire world and mean to me. Sorry if that sounds cheesy or overexaggerated, but I truly mean that with all my heart. Life before meeting you and getting to know you was like a motionless and colorless film. Just living day to day, from one point to another, without any real goals.”

He sighs and leans back to look at you face to face, his eyes full of love and truth. 

“You brought color back to my life, it was like I was coming back to life for the first time.”

He sighs and leans back to look at you face to face, his eyes full of love and truth. 

“But if you can’t believe my words, then my actions will just have to make up for it…”

Suddenly, you sense one of his hands grazing your thigh, traveling all the way up until his thumb hooks in the middle of your underwear.

Sliding it to the side and lining up his cock with your dripping entrance. His bulbous tip is just barely pushing inside your walls. Nanami gives you a direct look nose to nose with each other in this intimate pose, while your mind is still processing all Nanami said.

"Do you trust me?" Nanami spoke softly to you, expressing all of his feelings directly in front of you. There was also a tinge of shakiness in his voice, a slight anxiety that you would tread on his heart after all of this. Even with your mind muddled, you knew a single fact for sure: you cherished and trusted Nanami with your entire being.

“I do… Kento” 

You put your arms around Nanami and draw him in for a kiss, while sinking his cock inside you. It wasn't your first time having sex with Nanami, but this time was different as his cock began to stretch out your walls. It appeared more full and filling, as if he was hitting deeper than in the past.

You moan into each other's mouths, the kissing becomes sloppier with each passing second, with each thrust that Nanami delivers. The tip of his cock hits the same spot every time with accuracy. Nanami knew the precise area to drive you mad, and his cock carved a niche there, marking his territory and claiming you as his own.

You gasp out of the kiss as Nanami angles his hips to go even deeper inside you, tilting your head back as your eyes start to roll back a bit too. Your face flush slightly from embarrassment from getting riled up so easily. Nanami didn’t relent even a bit after this though, mouthing and biting on the sensitive parts on your neck. 

His hot tongue ran up and down your skin, tasting your sweet sweat dripping down on it. 

"Oh my god, sweetheart." After a moment of stuttering hips, Nanami growls and bites down on your shoulder, using his tongue on the wound to soothe it. Now, as he slows down the speed, he makes sure that each thrust still reaches as deep as possible while giving you tender love bites on your neck and shoulders.

Feeling himself losing control, Nanami grips onto your thighs, his hands squeezing the sensitive flesh. 

“Darling… Darling, I can’t ho-hold back anymore.” Nanami pants out.. His voice sounded strained as he started to plead to you, “I need more of you, fuck… no, I need all of you.” 

Even in this situation, with his cock fully buried inside of you and Nanami on the verge of losing control, he pulled back just enough to gauge your reaction, to see whether you were still willing.

Your voice was nearly completely gone, lost in a haze of ecstasy. Yet, you were aware that you desired a lot more—, for Nanami should offer you everything he has. A gentle "Please." emerges on your lips.

That answer was enough for Nanami to push on, sliding his cock out of your cunt evoking a pitiful whine to emit from your throat. He coos at you sweetly, moving your hair away from your forehead to get a better look at your eyes. He leans over and adjusts the pillows beneath your head, fluffing them up before giving you a light kiss on the forehead. 

Your face shows a confused expression which made Nanami chuckle lowly, “Don’t worry, love. Just making sure you’re comfortable before I fuck you senseless.” Your mouth drops at his casual remark as he winks at you. Your dripping cunt now visible to him as he holds the back of your knees and pushes them up to your chest. He slaps his hard cock twice on your pussy, making you shudder with each slap. 

“Safe word is peach, alright? Can you say that back to me, so I know you're ready?” 

Your eyebrow furrows in confusion but you oblige, “Peach…” 

Nanami pushes his length back inside you as soon as you have finished speaking. Stretching you out again, inch by inch. As your warmth surrounds him, he lets out soft grunts and leans in till your foreheads meet, his cock completely buried in you. Hands on either side of your head as he slowly begins to sway his hips, his hair sliding down and tickling your cheeks faintly. 

Nanami quickly got into rhythm,  repeatedly slamming his hips until he quickly found the ideal angle. Nanami's cock pulses and throbs inside of you as you dig your claws into his shoulder, his length filling you up delectably each time. A hand briefly brushes across your cheek before letting go and slinking down. 

Down to your neck, his large hand stopping there for a moment. He wrapped his fingers around your neck, as if to measure it. The sensation causes your breath to hitch slightly, but Nanami's hand quickly leaves your neck and descends farther. Fingertips glide across your chest, brushing across your nipple and pinching it. The sudden sharp sensation made your back arch off the bed with a high pitch moan. Nanami’s cock gets even harder at this, twitching inside of you. Pinching and twisting your stiffened buds to get more cute reactions out of you. 

The majority of his body weight is now on top of you, so you feel every inch and strength as he continues to fuck you into the bed. Unable to move and powerless to Nanami's whims, your body completely submits to his force. 

“Ken-Kento, Kento, Kentoooo!” You could only babble out his names in the small times where you got your voice back, your vocabulary now just consists of his name and various moans and whimpers. 

His fingers finally begin to toy with your neglected clit, sliding across the sensitive bud. Pushing you closer to the edge, pure white hot bliss forms in your stomach, and your mind becomes blank. 

Your mouth hangs wide as you attempt to spit out a sentence or make noises that indicate you are getting close. But Nanami did not need any words to know; he could feel you tightening up, and he was also close to his limit.

“Come with me..please.. My princess.” His voice strained and heavy, as he quickened his finger on your clit and his hips gave out a few more thrust. You feel a flash of hotness pooling inside your stomach, as he releases all his load inside of you. Your body too worn out to do anything at this point but accept it all. 

Nanami takes a few breaths before finally pulling out, his cock leaking out a few more droplets. Nanami pulls your panties back to normal, wiping any leftover cum on his tip on the outside of your panties. Giving it a few taps to make sure that all his cum stays in there. 

You roll over to your side, eyes drooping down, body sore and ready to pass out. You let your eyes close as your ears perk up to listen to Nanami’s voice. 

“Get some rest, my love. My sweet princess..” He purrs out slowly, as you hear the creaking of the bed and walking. 

“I’ll come back with something to wipe you off, but I want you to keep those panties on, at least for the night. I’ll be sure to refill them tomorrow morning.” He chuckles to himself, you feel a hand caress your cheek and fluff up your hair. Nanami’s voice grows closer as you feel his lips on your forehead. 

“I love you, my princess. You are my whole world, something to be cherished and loved. Never deny my feelings for you, but if those thoughts ever darkened your mind again.” 

His voice goes down to a whisper as you drift off to sleep. 

“I will always be here to show just how much I love you, my dear.”

[mitsvriii]

LOVE LANGUAGES

ft. genshin men

bell's note: sorry if the matte looks weird or too bright it's my first time messing around with it, might want to read it on a dark/darker mode just in case, experimenting with a more descriptive writing style so if we like let me know, no specific reader type, not proofread or word counted so if there are mistakes let me know, ga-ming is not included because i haven't been up-to-date with genshin and do not want to mischaracterize him

also date is weird because i accidentally posted and had to edit privately so oopsies

words of affirmation

kazuha, thoma, baizhu, neuvillette, zhongli, diluc

Whether it be a small word of encouragement or a simple, "you're doing great today", he always seems to know what to say and when to say it. His words soft as a dew drop falling from leaf to leaf in a misty morning, hitting your ears with such motion that you cannot help the smile that graces your lips, and lifts up the corners of them; like the movement of a picnic blanket being spread out on a flowery field.

quality time

kaeya, ajax, diluc, ayato, itto, gorou, neuvillette, wriothesley

Despite his busy days or numerous tasks for the day, whenever he gets a break he always goes to spend it with you first. Strolls down moonlight paths, childish games galore among hushed giggles, silent remarks exchanged between the flipping of a book's pages, or adoring smiles with stones that fail to jump the stream's waves like dolphins in the ocean. While your time may be short together as duties will call him back, your graceful smile and happy laughter will fill his lungs with purpose and a calm spirit for days to come.

physical touch

freminet, wanderer, tighnari, lyney, thoma, venti

A lingering hand tracing stars onto your back, each touch making your stress dissolve like sugar on your tongue. In other situations, it's a slightly calloused hand latching onto yours perfectly, as if your two hands were magnets meeting each other as one. A firm yet gentle grasp of his hands onto your hips as he oh-so-softly moves you to the side, your shoulders brushing against each other as he walks ahead of you. It could even be the way his thumb traces your cheek on quiet nights in bed, but no matter what it is your stomach is akin to churning butter whenever he touches you.

acts of service

neuvillette, zhongli, tighnari, alhaitham, heizou, xiao, cyno

Holding open a door amidst the sunny heat waves, waiting oh-so-patiently for you to reach it in your midst. It's even the simple offer to do the dishes or clean up around the house for you after a long day of work. Your clean clothes that were previously in a messy pile on the bed the moment you left your shared home for the day were put away neatly in their respective places in your bedroom by the time you returned home. Food prepared early with a little note, with sweet whispers decorated with ink on the note attached to the plate. Although he might seem cold or awfully busy at times, the things he does for you just because he can, says completely otherwise.

gift giving

xiao, zhongli , neuvillette, ajax, lyney, ayato, diluc, venti, kaveh

A bouquet of freshly picked flowers lying on your doorstep. Or an odd trinket from Archons knows what but he's so proud about acquiring it for you that you can't help the laugh that leaves your lungs. If you're lucky he'll find the ingredients to make his special dish, placing it beside you before retreating back to whatever he was busy with that day, but not before giving your temple a soft kiss. On rainy days he'll appear soaked to the bone, a boyish grin lacing his pretty face, with a chipped-off gem in his hands, claiming that the rain smoothed it out for him; hence why he had to get it instead of waiting for the rain to pass. No matter the gift he brings, though, you always cherish them no matter what

[burning-academia-if]

can we know rooks reaction to mc having a nsfw dream about him PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE

Ask and you will receive :>

You hadn't meant to let it slip, but then, Rook had always been able to read you well. Better then you had ever realized. When he'd strolled into the kitchen, still half asleep and shirt ridden up just enough to show a sliver of his stomach, he'd caught your stare.

You'd glanced away, perhaps a bit too quickly, mind racing to last night. Of his body and yours, and all the way your bodies entwined together.

A kiss was placed perfectly on the junction between your shoulder and neck. You tried not to suck in a breath, body still sensitive from the lingering effects of your dream.

He laughed into your skin, "What's got you all jumpy this morning?"

"Nothing." You lightly shove him away, and he raises an eyebrow.

"Really?" There's a faint curve to his mouth, like he's trying to suppress a smile. "Because for a second, it was almost like you were, like, weirdly sensitive for some reason."

Of course he noticed, but you schooled your expression anyway, "It's just your imagination."

"Are you sure?" He reached out, hand brushing against your cheek, fingers lightly trailing against the shell of your ear and you barely managed to contain a shudder.

His fingers trailed lower, to your neck, and you snapped, "Rook--"

"I'll stop when you admit it." He gives a shit eating grin at the look you throw this way. Pressed against the counter, there's really no where for you to escape to, and his fingers curved over your collarbones, ghosting the collar of your t-shirt.

Taking a deep breath you manage, "It's nothing, really!" Up from your collarbone to the hollow of your throat, his fingers slowly rise back up. "It was just a dumb dream!"

That stops him, but maybe not in the way you hope. His eyes go bright, grin in full force now as he leans forward, "Dreaming about me are you?"

God, now you've done it. "Oh please, not in the way you think."

"Really? Tell me about the dream then." His hands settle on your hips now instead, one hand slipping under your shirt and meeting bare skin. You can't stop the shudder this time. His thumb runs circle into your sides. "Well? I'm waiting on hearing all about this dream that totally didn't fluster you."

"Have I mentioned I can't stand you sometimes." You try to shove him away, and he catches your hand. Presses a kiss to your wrist. Then, faintly, sinks his teeth into the tender part of it. A soft gasp falls from you.

He kisses it again, as though to soothe, "I'm perfectly easy to stand, you're just stubborn as hell. Which is fine, I know exactly how to get it out of you."

One of his hands drift lower, skimming the waistband of your sweats. You can't stop your body's response at this point, and Rook looks like he's trying not to laugh at you stubborn attempts to fight it anyway. He doesn't let his hand drift any lower, and you hate how much that frustrates you. Instead, he kisses you again, then your throat, then shoulder. He's pressed close to you now, and you feel his body heat.

You know he's the type to crack first though, "You wish."

Then you take his face in your hands and pull him back towards your mouth. He gasps into it, pressing even closer to you still. His lips part and your tongue slips into his mouth. His hand gripping your side squeezes, a feeling that almost hurts as much as it gives pleasure. You know he almost forgets himself, his goal, because for a second his fingers slip under your waistband. So close to where you secretly want them to go. But instead he manages to catch himself, and pulls himself away completely.

A rush of cold hits you and he gasps hard, before laughing when he sees the state your in, "Don't look at me like that. You can have me when you tell me exactly what you dreamed about."

He reaches around you and grabs the plate you'd just made for yourself before darting away before you can fully register the whole exchange.

Your brain catches up with you, and you push yourself away from the counter, "Rook!"

His laughter carries as you dart after him. You can't believe you lost this round.

[bellofthemeadow]

Dawn Ends the Night | Chapter 6

Aemond Targaryen x FemReader (Dayne)

Previous Chapter | Masterlist | Series Masterlist

Rating: M for Mature (18 + no minors allowed)

Word Count: 7.4K (longest chapter? My form of apology for the delay in getting this chapter out)

Warning: All warnings on the Series Masterlist, will update if necessary (Re-iterating, no minors allowed! Thank you)

Chapter Summary: You have been in the Red Keep for less than a moon's turn, and you are getting to know some members of your future family. Some are more agreeable than others.

Notes: If anyone is still out there and reading this, I want to deeply apologised for the delay in finishing this chapter. I honestly did not think that it would take around 6 months to finish this, but many things robbed me of my ability to write or to have any type of creative purpose. Chief amongst is that a fell down my stairs ending up in a severe concussion and just the thought of well, thinking and looking at my computer was horrendous.

After many check-ups at the hospital and having let some months pass, I feel like I am mostly headaches free + drowsiness free and I feel ready and super pumped about coming back on this platform and continuing this story.

I hope you all like this chapter, and thank you to all of you who are still here and to all of you who wrote me sweet messages, I opened the app for the first time in a while some weeks ago and they were a true warm hug for my heart 💚💜💚

Unto the story now, with loads of love xxx

Taglist: @duds31 , @snh96, @lol-im-done, @heavenly1927, @whimsywilde , @queen-123s-posts , @httyd-marauders , @singhfae , @nothing-just-hanging-around

Family

Before your arrival in King’s Landing, breaking your fast had meant time spent amongst family, a time when you would gather in the quiet of the morning, exchanging words with your parents and brothers before the day’s duties scattered all of you like leaves in the wind. But now, amidst the towering spires and shadowed corridors of the Red Keep, since meeting Aemond, you have come to realize that the morning meal is all too brief. The moments slip through your fingers like sand, and you find yourself yearning for more—more time, more closeness, more of Aemond. More. You had become greedy since coming to the capital.  

You came to notice as each morning gave way to the next that as the crack of dawn slowly started to give way to the warmth of the morning sun, you would find yourself idly pushing strawberries or blackberries around your plate, and more slowly savouring sweet, honeyed cakes, all in a bid to delay the inevitable parting. You’ve also noticed Aemond doing much the same, pouring his steaming tea with deliberate slowness, chewing each slice of cured meat with thoughtful care. It brought a smile to your face each time, to think that he too wanted to delay the inevitable.  

But all good things must come to an end, and as you swallowed the last piece of fruit, inevitability settled over the both of you. The fleeting sweet tartness was gone, and you knew it was time, regrettably, to rise and face the demands of the day. You would bid the prince farewell, guiding him to your door, Perros’ gaze silently observing the scene. Today, instead of his usual parting words of soft promises, Aemond gently took hold of your hand, his touch tender as he examined the delicate shape of your fingers. Without warning, he pressed his lips softly against your knuckles, his whispered goodbyes a warm breath against your skin. Then, with a swift turn, he departed, leaving you with a lingering sense of yearning and the ghost of his touch upon your hand. 

 Even now, hours upon his departure from your solar and despite the cool morning breeze, you still felt overheated and no amount of pinching yourself was helping. The heat that had risen to your cheeks from his remarks lingered, persisting well into the morning. Every now and then, as you went about your morning duties, you would catch yourself thinking back to your conversation with him, the memory of his voice still echoing in your ears and the ghost of his hands still warm against your waist. And when you closed your eyes, you swore you could still feel the hard planes of Aemond’s chest against your soft breast. The unladylike part of you wished that Perros had not been with you in the room, and you wonder if Aemond was as dutiful as others made him to be – perhaps he could be pushed in the direction of your desires, with the right pair of soft hands of course, you giggle to yourself. 

For now, you enjoy the breezy air of the capital, lying on your back as you bask in the greenery of the royal garden alongside your little group. Gerris and Little Davos, who had not left your brother’s side since you brought him with you from Flea Bottom, played nearby with him and Heleana’s young twins. Your little retinue was scattered, with the younger ones running around with boundless energy while Heleana and you lounged lazily, letting the balmy afternoon sun warm your skin. You sighed contentedly, your fingers softly dancing through the lush, soft grass beneath you, the cool earth was a welcome contrast to the sun's warmth on your skin. 

You watch Gerris being tackled by Davos, their playful tussle drawing the attention of the fair-haired twins, who look on curiously, holding tightly onto each other. Perros let out an exasperated sigh, one that you can clearly hear from where you're lying on the ground. From the corner of your eye, you catch a glimpse of movement as the old knight begins to walk towards the boys, intent on breaking up their fight. His footsteps crunch on the soft grass as he approaches 

“Let them be, Perros.” You interrupt him, “It is good for Gerris to have a friend who does not care about his name. He needs someone who can truly play with him and who will care for him, the true bond of brotherhood, is it not?”  

Perros inclined his head, although he did look like he swallowed a particularly sour lemon, “Wise words, my Lady.”  

You watched as Gerris grabbed a handful of the rose bush, the flowers perfectly trimmed, and broke the thorny stem from the beautifully plump flower, discarding the petals and holding the long-crooked stem before him like a sword. He aimed his makeshift weapon at Davos, his eyes gleaming with excitement as he loudly proclaimed that he would defeat the evil sorcerer and protect the prince and princess, making the fair-haired twins giggle. 

You raised an eyebrow, “I do however draw a line at destroying royal shrubbery and I fear the gardener will take offence to us.” 

Perros charged towards the boys, who screamed at the sight of the towering knight and darted around, trying to dodge his grasp. Watching the chaos unfold, you couldn't help but smile faintly, a wave of nostalgia washing over you. Gerris let out a shriek that could very well shatter glass as Perros scooped him up by the armpits. The look of sheer betrayal that Gerris shot at Perros made both you and Heleana burst into loud guffas, startling the nearby servants. 

But then, heroic little Davos sprang into action to save his newfound friend. He charged at Perros, crashing into the knight's legs with all his might. The sudden impact made the older man stumble and loose his grip, giving Gerris the chance to wriggle free from his arms and dart to safety. 

It warmed your heart to see your brother so happy and to see Davos, who still looked gaunt in comparison to the rest of your group, gain color and a new twinkle in his eyes. You hoped, from the bottom of your heart, that both boys would build a strong bond of brotherhood and that both would grow to protect each other. This world is too cruel to go about it alone, you mused, thinking of Aemond and his missing eye.  

Circumstances had forced you to face the world alone until the birth of your baby brother. Yet, even after his arrival, his tender age prevented him from being a true companion, and your change in station only served to widen the gap between you, extending far beyond the simple span of years. The memory of Gerris's birth is still vivid in your mind—your mother laboring for hours before finally delivering a rightful heir. While the family rejoiced, you were enveloped in a profound sadness, grappling with feelings of inadequacy that wrapped around your heart like thorny vines, their grip unyielding and relentless. 

For months after Gerris was born, your mother, radiant with the joy of a smooth pregnancy and glowing with happiness at having fulfilled her long-anticipated duty, tried to coax you into bonding with your new brother, her eyes bright with hope. Yet each time, you deftly evaded her attempts, crafting excuse after excuse—he was too small, you were too clumsy, you could not stand his smell. Within you, a hidden bitterness took root, a silent resentment toward the tiny being whose very existence had overshadowed your own, solely because he had been born with a cock between his legs. You were left with nothing but a hollow cavern inside your chest. How unfair it was, you remember thinking, to have been born into one of the few Dornish great houses that still valued male heirs above all else. 

All that remained for you were your cherished books and studies. You clung to the hope that if they could not solve your predicament, they might at least offer some solace. One late evening, on a moonless night, as you delved into a dusty tome, a tale from the far North seized your attention. It told of a young boy who, consumed by jealousy of his elder brother's fortune, suffocated him to seize his crown and title. Horrified by this grotesque betrayal, a direct affront to the sacred teachings of the gods, you slammed the book shut, vowing never to revisit its vile contents. Yet, despite your resolve, the haunting words lingered in your thoughts, whispering of dark shadows and unfathomable acts deep within your soul. 

Some weeks after your brother’s birth, you were walking down the hall after your morning lesson with the maester. As you rounded a corner, the voices of two guards reached your ears. Their words still echoed painfully in your mind: 

“Have you laid eyes on the young master yet?” one guard asked, a note of excitement in his voice. 

The other guard grunted dismissively. “Not yet. I’m still on duty for the young lady. Strange one, she is. It's a blessing from the gods our lady finally bore a proper heir.” 

Chills ran down your spine, and your breath caught in your throat. Was that how everyone saw you? A strange girl unworthy of your family’s ancestral seat? As tears gathered in your eyes, you felt a sticky wetness on your fingers and realized you had crushed the inkpot in your grasp. You wanted to scream, to tear down the walls, to destroy something... or someone. How dare they dismiss you so easily? How dare they deem you unworthy? The urge to lash out, to make them feel your wrath, was almost unbearable. As you silently left the hall, the ink leaving a trail behind you, your mind wandered back to that Northern tale, and  

That very night, the castle lay shrouded in silence, broken only by the occasional groan of ancient wood, as if Starfall was holding its breath. Sneaking out of your room had become a nightly ritual, but tonight, filled with anger and bitterness, your steps carried you to the nursery door. An inexplicable force compelled you to push it open. Hands trembling uncontrollably, you eased the door ajar and peered inside. 

Inside, the gentle rhythm of the nurse's breathing was the only sound, the room bathed in the soft silver light filtering through gauzy curtains. You tiptoed closer to Gerris, the moon casting a serene glow over his cherubic face. Under the night’s tender touch, he appeared so different—not the usurper you had imagined, but simply a baby, innocent and unknowing. His tiny chest rose and fell with each breath, a fragile testament to life’s delicate beauty. 

Your heart tightened as the dark, unwelcome thought crept into your mind once more. "I could just... but no, that's monstrous," you silently reprimanded yourself, the words a desperate plea for sanity. The sheer horror of the act you had momentarily considered struck you like a blade, cutting deep into your conscience. The gods-forsaken book had planted seeds of madness within you, but as you stood there, looking at your brother’s peaceful slumber, you realized the true depth of your error. 

To harm this innocent, to extinguish a life that had only just begun—it would be a sin beyond redemption, a betrayal of everything you held sacred. The realization washed over you, leaving you trembling. Gerris was no enemy; he was family, bound by blood and destiny. The thought of causing him harm was an abomination, a dark whisper from the abyss that you vowed never to heed. 

As tears stung your eyes, a soft coo interrupted your turmoil. Gerris, now awake, was looking directly at you, his eyes wide and curious. There was no accusation there, no awareness of the storm of emotions he had unwittingly caused. Just a baby, reaching out. His smile, wide and guileless, seemed to pierce through the shadows that had gathered around your heart. And when he wrapped his tiny fingers around yours, something shifted within you. 

 "I'm sorry," you whispered, not sure to whom you were apologizing—Gerris, for the dark thoughts, or yourself, for having them. He gurgled happily in response, as if to say he understood and forgave you. 

It was then, in the quiet of the night with only the moon as your witness, that you made a silent vow. "If I cannot be the Lady of Starfall, then I'll ensure you become the greatest lord this castle has ever known. I'll protect you, teach you, be your guide." The words felt like a balm, soothing the raw edges of your soul. 

Gerris's grip on your finger was his silent pact, a bond sealed under the watchful eyes of the stars. From that moment, your path was clear. You would stand by him, defend him, and love him unconditionally. 

You were brought back to the present by youthful giggles infusing the air with joy. Gerris and Davos darted around the garden, leading young Jaehaera and Jaehaerys on a merry chase, their innocent games painting smiles on the faces of the two kingsguards who were tasked with watching your small group. 

Beside you, Heleana sat with the grace of a princess, in her delicate hands, she cradled a praying mantis she had found earlier in her explorations. With curious eyes, she was inspecting its slender legs and vibrant green body. The tiny creature, for its part, seemed unperturbed by the princess's scrutiny, perhaps recognizing the gentleness in her touch and that she would not hurt him. 

Aemond's book lay abandoned by your other side, its pages awaiting your return. You had started the day with the intention of devouring its contents, to lose yourself in the tales of dragons and the heroes who rode them. Yet, the sun's gentle lullaby had other plans, drawing you into a state of blissful lethargy. Like a cup overbrimming with sweet honey, you felt yourself grow slow before succumbing to the warmth of the sun, your eyelids growing heavy with the promise of sleep. 

Sprawled upon the ground, you felt like the old cat who had been stalking the walls of Starfall when you were a girl, always indulging in too much cream, basking in the afterglow of satisfaction. "I could get used to this," you mused silently 

Heleana was thinking aloud, curiousness painting her sweet smile, "This mantis is significantly larger than the ones I usually encounter. They're typically small enough to fit comfortably in my palm, but the legs of this one are sprawling out." 

You cracked open an eye, shifting your gaze towards the green critter still nestled in her grasp. Indeed, it was an impressive size, you thought.  

"Do you think the weather could be influencing its size?" you ventured closing your eyes again. 

Heleana blinked, seemingly taken aback by your sudden interjection, as if she had momentarily forgotten your presence or hadn't anticipated a response. 

"In what manner?" she queried curiously; you could feel her eyes settling on you, making you squirm like you were one of those bugs under her inspection. 

"Well, back in Starfall, there was one year that was particularly mild. The days weren't scorchingly hot, and the nights were warm with a gentle breeze. It was one of the most pleasant periods I can recall," you began, just the memory of those sweet breezy nights, holding Gerris by the hand as you made him look at the stars was enough to make your heart grow within your chest. "During that time, the old cat that roamed the grounds would bring in notably plumper mice. I remember asking our maester about it, and he suggested that the favorable weather allowed the mice to forage more freely and evade predators with greater ease." 

Heleana hummed at your explanation but did not contribute.  "Or perhaps," you added, a playful grin curving your lips, "this mantis simply enjoyed too many honeyed cakes at breakfast." 

With no response from the princess, you wondered if Heleana had even heard your musings or if you had been talking to yourself. However, before you could dwell on the silence any further, a gentle pressure on your right hand, resting on your belly, pulled you back to the present. Alongside, a slight weight settled next to you. Curious, you opened your eyes to find Heleana had cozied up beside you, her presence a comforting weight next to you.  

You softly squinted at her, "What happened to your mantis, Heleana?" You said while gently squeezing her hand in yours. 

"I've decided to test your theory," Heleana announced with a determined grin that brought a smile to your face. "I want to see if Tarrax will grow even larger if she spends more time in the garden." 

"Tarrax?" you echoed with a chuckle, amused by the very mighty sounding name she had chosen for such a critter. 

Nodding, Heleana explained, "Yes, I named her after a Valyrian god. She's mighty, larger than any other mantis in all of King's Landing." 

"A fitting name, indeed," you replied, smiling down at Heleana as she shyly returned your gaze. "You know, Aemond is quite knowledgeable about our history, perhaps more than anyone else in the family, save for our father and uncle. You should ask him to share more with you." 

"Later," you said, waving off the idea with a hand, content to enjoy the present moment. "Right now, I'm spending time with my new sister." 

"Sister?" Heleana's eyes lit up at the word. 

"Of course," you affirmed warmly. "As Aemond's future wife, that makes you, my sister." You then added, with a conspiratorial smile, "And I must say, your company is far more pleasant." 

Heleana's cheeks flushed with a rosy hue. "I've always wanted a sister," she admitted softly. 

You hesitated before broaching a delicate subject. "What about Princess Rhaenyra?" you asked gently. 

Heleana grew quiet, her voice a soft murmur. "I guess she is my sister by blood, but she never really showed she cared about me, or anyone else in my family. I remember, as a child, she would sometimes brush my hair, but then, suddenly, I was no longer welcome in her chamber. Mother mentioned something had happened, but nobody ever explained it to me."  

She sighed, a hint of sorrow in her voice. "They all think I'm too naive to understand. You know, they say when a Targaryen is born, the gods flip a coin..." Her voice trailed off, laden with unspoken sadness. "Everyone seems to have made up their minds about how my coin landed." 

Your eyebrows drew together, a frown forming as her words sank in. Gently, you rolled onto your side, maintaining your hold on Heleana's hand. The sudden closeness seemed to startle her; your noses were almost touching, allowing you to catch the faint, sweet scent of apples that seemed to emanate from her skin. Offering her a soft smile, you brushed a stray silver hair behind her ear. Heleana possessed a beauty distinct from her brother's. While Aemond resembled a statue crafted by divine hands – all sharp lines and smooth angles, with an angular jaw and eyes sharp as a predator's – Heleana radiated a softer, more sweet charm. Her face was round and gentle, her lips glossy and inviting, her eyes wide and innocent.  

"You shouldn't heed others' words, sweet Heleana," you whispered, making sure your voice carried a soothing warmth. It was the same tone you used back home to soothe the skittish kittens that hid in the corners of the castle.  "Though our acquaintance has been brief, it's clear to me that you possess exceptional brilliance and kindness, virtues all too rare in this world in my opinion." 

 Heleana's expression turned forlorn. "I'm not as smart as Aemond," she lamented. "My High Valyrian is mediocre at best, and I don't share his affinity for books." 

"We each have our unique strengths," you reassured her, glancing towards a rose bush where a delicate butterfly had alighted. "Tell me, which would you say is superior: Tarrax or this beautiful butterfly?" You nodded toward a beautiful green and pink butterfly softly chittering near the roses. Heleana looked before turning back to you, her faces inches away from yours.  

Her brows knitted in confusion at the comparison. "It's difficult to say... They're both quite remarkable in their own ways." 

"Exactly," you affirmed, a smile spreading across your face as you squeezed her hand gently. "We all differ, yet each of us holds intrinsic value. And you, Heleana, are a splendid butterfly."  

Heleana's smile lingered, but soon her eyes glazed over, taking on a distant, unfocused look as if she were peering into a world unseen. Your concern deepened at this sudden shift. "Heleana, are you alright?" You tried to look around for help, but you could not move, entranced by her glazed look.  

Yet, she offered no reply. Abruptly, she rose, her grip on your hands tightening. Her voice, when she spoke, carried an eerie cadence, "The dragons dance above the lake. The lake welcomes them both to rest. The faces watch on in wait, happy their land is thus at rest." 

Her words, cryptic and haunting, hung in the air between you like an unspoken curse. The sudden intensity of her gaze, now clear and piercing, seemed to penetrate your very soul, stripping away the pretense and exposing your deepest fears. It was as though she could see through you, beyond the garden's tranquil facade, to a vision that only she could discern. The leaves rustled softly in the breeze, yet their gentle sound felt distant, overshadowed by the chilling weight of her words. 

"Heleana, what happ..." Your question hung unfinished in the air, cut short by a stern voice that seemed out of place amidst the garden's tranquility. "My princess, my lady," called Ser Criston Cole, the annoyed title of his voice suggesting he'd rather be anywhere but here. Perros, looming just behind him, had his arms crossed, his brows furrowed in a manner that clearly communicated his readiness to intervene should the queen’s favored Kingsguard step out of line. 

"Ser Criston," you greeted with a polite smile, attempting to dispel the unsettling echo of Heleana's words from your thoughts. "To what do we owe the pleasure of your company?" 

You could swear you saw a sneer on the knight’s face "The queen requests your presence, my lady, Her Majesty wishes to discuss the wedding arrangements with you." You couldn't help but swallow nervously at the mention of the queen. 

"May I accompany you?" Heleana inquired, shifting her penetrating gaze from you to Ser Criston. His annoyed stance softening upon Heleana’s words, ser Criston offered her a gentle, albeit somewhat strained, smile. "I'm afraid the queen wishes for some privacy with her future daughter-in-law, my princess." 

Heleana nodded in understanding, then looked back at you 

 "I'll remain here with the children until you return." 

You couldn't suppress the smile that her words brought to your lips. "Thank you, Heleana, and Perros," you added, turning to address your guard who looked like he wanted to pummel Cole into the ground, "please stay here and look after them with Heleana. I'd feel much more at ease knowing you're here to ensure their safety." 

Perros looked like he wanted to argue, but seeing your hard gaze, he simply nodded his head before shooting Cole a cold look.

Rising to your feet, you brushed down your skirts, the soft, gauzy purple fabric slipping through your fingers. Almost immediately, Gerris bounded over to you, "Where are you going?" he demanded, a hint of a whine coloring his words. "You've barely played with us!" 

You chuckled, reaching out to tweak his nose affectionately. "You've been darting about all afternoon, young man. You can't expect me to keep up with that pace! Stay here with Princess Heleana." His face fell slightly at your words. 

"Do you really have to leave now?" he pressed disappointingly.  

"Here's a deal for you," you offered, a conspiratorial glint in your eye. "Promise me you'll help Davos look after the twins, be good for Heleana, and I'll read you both an extra story tonight." 

Gerris's mood brightened instantly at the prospect, though he couldn't resist swatting away your hand from his nose with a playful huff. Then, with a bounce in his step, he returned to the small assembly of children. 

"You'll need to guide me, Ser Criston. I must admit, the vastness of this castle still confounds me," you said, offering a light-hearted smile that went unreturned. With a small bow to Heleana, Ser Criston turned sharply on his heel and began to lead the way toward the castle's heart. 

You hastened your steps to keep up with the Kingsguard, mindful not to let the hem of your dress catch beneath your feet. Matching the pace set by the imposing figure clad in white armor proved challenging; his stride was long and unforgiving, his focus squarely ahead, seemingly indifferent to whether you managed to keep up. 

Seeking to puncture the dense silence that enveloped you both, you ventured, "I've heard you hail from Dorne, Ser..." 

His response was brisk, clipped. "No. Only my mother was Dornish." 

"I see," you murmured, the silence resettling heavily between you. After a moment, you tried again, "Have you ever visited Dorne yourself?" 

"Yes, during the War of the Dornish Marshes." 

The words landed heavily, making you inwardly cringe. It seemed everyone in King's Landing bore some grievance against your homeland or its people. Lost in these thoughts, a question slipped from you, unbidden, "You bear no fondness for me, do you, Ser? May I ask why?" 

His stride faltered, a clear sign your words had hit a mark. Turning sharply, Ser Criston's gaze bore into you, his eyes narrowing as he scrutinized you. "You'd like everyone to believe you're the epitome of innocence, wouldn't you? The sweet, unsuspecting girl caught in the machinations of her family and her kingdom. But we both know that's far from the truth." 

You felt your jaw tighten, anger simmering beneath your calm exterior. "There is no scheme," you retorted, your voice edged with frustration. 

Ser Criston's scoff was a harsh, grating sound, echoing mockingly around you, taunting you with its disdain. In two swift strides, the knight advanced, his towering presence suddenly overwhelming, making you acutely aware of your smaller stature. As you peered up at the Kingsguard, you swallowed nervously. Should Ser Criston wish to bash your head against the nearby wall, he very well could. And no one would come to your rescue. You were completely alone in this dark hall, and even if you were not, who in their right mind would dare oppose a knight of the Kingsguard? The protector of the queen, no less. The cold stone walls seemed to close in around you, the flickering torchlight casting ominous shadows that mirrored the fear gnawing at your insides 

Leaning closer, his voice dropped to a menacing whisper, "I've encountered a girl like you before – she believed her status absolved her of decency, she would be content to watch the world burn for her own gain. I won't allow you to follow in her footsteps and hurt this family.” 

You managed a tight swallow, nerves tingling at Ser Criston’s words. "Whoever she was, I am not her," you asserted, trying to sound more confident than you felt.  

Ser Criston paused, his eyes drilling into yours as he weighed your words. "We shall see," he finally said. With that, he turned on his heel, the air hitting your face, before he started resuming his march toward the queen's chambers, leaving you to scramble in his wake.  

As you trailed behind Ser Criston, your pace quickened to match his stride, and your gaze found itself locked on the stark whiteness of his helm. A thought fluttered through your mind, delicate yet persistent, "What womanly shadow has fallen across this knight's path to make him distrust women so?"  

Men always had a way of making their problems every woman’s burden, and in a place like King's Landing, a city where trust is as scarce as shade in the Dornish desert, such mistrust could become lethal. You were no naive ingenue, however; Dorne, for all its beauty and warmth, was no stranger to the same games of power and deception that seemed to animate the heart of the Seven Kingdoms. The corridors of Sunspear had echoed with whispers and schemes, and you had learned early that the veneer of civility often masked a ruthless struggle for dominance. Here in King’s Landing, the stakes were higher, the players more cunning, but the game remained the same. 

Nevertheless, this information about the knight lodged itself in a part of your brain. Information was power and understanding the pains and loyalties of those around you could be as valuable as any sword or magical dragon. To know the mind is to know how people can be used, and Ser Criston might one day become a very valuable piece on your cyvasse board if it ever comes to it.  

As you arrived before the imposing door, the glowing tower etched into the dark, polished wood stood as a solemn sentinel, marking the entrance to the queen’s apartments. Ser Criston knocked twice, each rap sharp and curt, echoing through the stone corridor like a distant war drum. A moment later, the soft, velvety voice of the queen bid you both to enter. Her words, though gentle, carried the weight of authority, wrapping around you like a silken noose, drawing you inexorably into the bedchambers. 

Queen Alicent sat upon a plush green chair, her velvet gown clinging to her figure with elegant modesty. The seven-pointed star necklace embraced her throat, a symbol of her devout faith. She looked rather put out, her fingers absently scratching at one another—a nervous tic, no doubt. 

The three of you regarded one another in heavy silence, the air thick with unspoken words. It was Queen Alicent who finally broke the stillness. 

“We won’t be needing you, Ser Criston,” she said, her voice floating through the room, rich and velvety. Ser Criston bowed, his deference directed more toward the queen than to you, and then retreated, leaving you standing awkwardly before your future mother-in-law. The very thought sent a shiver down your spine, an unsettling notion you constantly tried to push aside. 

“Your Grace,” you began, dipping into a low curtsy, your back as straight as a sword. “You wished to see me?” 

Alicent’s smile was a marvel of diplomacy—warm yet calculated, inviting yet commanding distance, like a sword draped in a beautiful green silk. You could not help but admire such a smile that must have taken years to develop “Indeed, lady Dayne. Sit, please." She gestured to a round table nestled next to the balcony. As you take a seat, Alicent snaps her fingers and servants starts to pour ruby liquid into your glass  

“I hope you like Arbor Red; there is no finer wine in all of King’s Landing, we import it directly from the Reach” Queen Alicent remarked, her voice carrying a subtle note of pride as she gestured toward the goblet on the table before you. 

You smiled hesitantly, the corners of your mouth twitching with uncertainty. “Arbor Red is hard to come by in Dorne. I shall savor this, thank you.” 

The wine’s deep crimson hue caught the light, promising warmth and richness. As you lifted the goblet to your lips, the queen's eyes never left you, her expression unreadable, a mask of courtly grace that concealed the thoughts swirling beneath. 

“I pray you are settling well into your new home, Lady Dayne?” the queen inquired, her tone polite but her gaze sharp and assessing. 

“Everyone has been very welcoming, Your Grace,” you answered diplomatically. “It might not feel like home yet, but I believe it could one day become so.” If these walls could never replace the sand of your homes, at the very least could become the only home you needed.  

“Hmmm,” said the queen thoughtfully. “I was quite young when I left Oldtown with my father to come to court. Although, at the time, I could never have imagined I was to be married to the king.” Her words held no trace of love, only a bitterness that cut through the air like a knife. “It was a great yet unexpected honor, of course.” 

 Your heart tightened at her words. You would have thrown yourself off the high walls had you been in Alicent Hightower’s place. At the very least, Aemond was your age, not a decrepit, sick old man. 

“Of course,” you said, gulping a bit more of your wine. You should slow down. You would need all your wits about you to survive this conversation with the queen. 

“You must be wondering why I asked you here today.” 

“It has crossed my mind,” you admitted. 

“I want to talk to you about your future with my son.” 

The words ‘your future with my son’ echoed in your mind, the taste of Aemond’s mouth on yours etched upon your very soul. “I’ve heard of your morning meetings,” Alicent mentioned casually, though a note of reproach lingered in her tone. 

Your heart raced as you forced a calm smile. “Aemond and I have grown quite fond of each other, Your Grace. Our meetings are a way to strengthen our bond as future man and wife.” 

“Indeed,” the queen replied, her eyes narrowing slightly. “Fondness is all well and good, but the court watches everything. Your actions reflect not just on yourself, but on our house.” 

The noose was slowly tightening around your throat, “I can promise you that Aemond never did anything untoward that could bring shame to himself or to your family.” 

“I should hope so, Aemond is not one to share his thoughts freely however. The queen lamented. It seems that you have made quite the impression.” 

You couldn’t help the soft smile that danced on your lips. “He is a man of deep thought and great feeling, Your Grace. Our conversations have become a cherished part of my day.” 

Queen Alicent's eyes, once stern, now softened just a touch. “It is good to hear that Aemond has found someone who appreciates him for who he is. But remember, fondness must walk hand in hand with duty. Our lives are not our own; they belong to the realm.” 

“I understand, Your Grace,” you said, inclining your head respectfully. “I will uphold the honor and dignity of our house.” 

“See that you do,” the queen replied, her voice carrying the weight of both warning and hope. “In King’s Landing, alliances are as fragile as spun glass, and one misstep can shatter everything.” 

You sighed softly, relieved that the queen’s words had been relatively mild. If that was all she wanted to convey, it was quite manageable. Nothing too bad. 

“However,” the queen continued, her voice taking on a harder edge. You lifted your eyes to meet her piercing gaze. 

“See that you remember this: Aemond’s loyalty will always be, first and foremost, to me and to his family. No matter how many threads you spin, how many lingering glances you throw his way, Aemond is my son before he becomes your anything. Do not think you will sway him to the winds of your mind. Aemond will do what we tell him to, always. Remember these words should you ever need to remind yourself of your place in this castle.” 

Now this you could not let pass. “With all due respect, Your Grace, I would hope that Aemond, as my husband, and I share the same wishes and aspirations. Is this alliance not to unite Dorne and the royal family as one?” 

The queen looked crossly into her glass, and you noticed it was quite empty. Interesting. You would have thought that a woman as pious as the queen would not indulge in drink, especially given how she reprimanded Prince Aegon at every opportunity. 

“Then make sure that your mind is always aligned with his interests and the best interests of this family. You will not like the alternative, I am afraid.” 

“Is that a threat, Your Majesty?” 

“Not a threat. I am simply explaining a fact. You were not there when the other boys teased him in his youth. I was the one whose shoulder he cried upon. I was the only one who cared for him when he was robbed of his eye. Me, not my father, not Viserys. Me. Do not think that your presence nullifies all that I have done for him.” 

You clenched your golden goblet, the ruby red wine as vivid as the fury in your eyes. Just as you were about to retort with your own biting words—though not the wisest course of action—a sharp series of knocks erupted at the large door. 

The queen raised her hand, and one of the guards waiting at the entrance opened the door, revealing none other than the man in question. Aemond entered, his expression stoic, though the wild look in his eyes told a different story. He seemed to sense the tension in the room immediately, his gaze flicking between you and his mother. 

“Mother. My lady,” he greeted, his voice a careful mask of calm. 

“Aemond,” Queen Alicent replied suprised at seeing her son at her door, but her tone softening slightly. “I was discussing the upcoming wedding with your future wife. We were thinking of green with little accents of lavender for the colors.” 

“Hmmmm,” was Aemond’s answer. “Purple is also an honored Targaryen color. Ensure it is visible to honor both my bride and my blood.” 

“We must show unity in this wedding, Aemond. You cannot think to—” 

“I would like to borrow Lady Dayne, Mother, if that is all,” Aemond interrupted smoothly. “I should like to think that color schemes are not the most crucial element in demonstrating the unity of our family, hmmmmm. My lady?” He extended his arm to you. 

You scrambled to reach it, curtseying and softly uttering a thanks to your future mother-in-law before hurrying to Aemond’s side. Together, you left the queen’s solar, Aemond leading you with a grace that accompany his stoic and princely air. 

As you both walked through the halls, you glanced at the strong profile of your betrothed. By the gods, he was handsome, as if carved from marble itself. 

“I hope my mother was not too harsh in her words to you. For if she was, I will have words with her,” Aemond spoke without looking at you, his shoulders tense, his back rod-straight. He flexed his sword hand, as if yearning to grasp the familiar dragon pommel for comfort. 

Without a word, you gently placed your palm in his clenching hand. At the sudden contact, the prince stopped in his tracks and finally turned to look at you, his whole being softening. 

You raised his hand to your mouth, placing a soft kiss on his palm. The warmth of his skin against your lips sent a shiver down your spine. Aemond moved his hand to cup your cheek, the touch gentle yet firm, and you smiled contentedly, nuzzling into his palm as if it were the safest place in the world. 

"It does not matter what your mother said. All that matters is that you know I will always be on your side, regardless of what happens. The rest is superficial. As long as you believe in me and I believe in you, all will be well." 

Aemond's thumb softly stroked the apple of your cheek, sending waves of warmth through you. His touch was both tender and reassuring, a silent promise of his support. "I feel like we do not know each other enough to speak of each other so," he murmured, a hint of uncertainty in his voice. 

“Not close enough? Do you caress the face of every lady in this castle? If so, I will be rather cross,” you teased, a playful glint in your eyes. 

“Do not say such things, you know there is but you,” he replied, his tone earnest. “Although your manners have a way of confounding me, I feel like I was waiting for you. I think you were owed to me,” Aemond softly admitted, doing his upmost to not avert your gaze.  

You tensed at his words. “Owed?” 

“For my eye,” Aemond said simply. “After all that the gods took, I was owed something wonderful, my lady.” 

“I am not sure it works like that,” you replied, your fingers grasping the shirt of his dark green, almost black, leather riding coat. The rich fabric was cool under your touch, a stark contrast to the heat of the moment. 

He leaned closer, his breath warm against your skin, carrying the faint scent of the Arbor Red wine. “Perhaps not. But it feels right, as if fate or the gods have finally given me something to cherish.” 

“Is this fate you speak of the same that led you to rescue me from your mother’s inquisition?” you asked, trying to divert the subject. The softeness and eagerness of his words were bringing out some feelings in too quick a fashion. 

 Aemond looked momentarily sheepish. “I suppose it was not fate, for I went looking for you in the garden. Helaena told me where to find you, and I grew worried. I will not let anything happen to you, my lady, whether it be from my family or anyone else.” 

There was a sincerity in his voice that made your heart ache. You studied his face, his sharp features softened by the candlelight of the narrow corridor, you tugged him to a nearby alcove, hidden from prying eyes.  

Aemond looked startled, but did not take his eyes away from you, while you bit your lips, looking into his lone eye pensively.  

“I would never ask you to choose.” 

“I know. But I would choose you regardless.” 

“Aemond...” 

“Come now.” Aemond's hand slowly slipped from your face, his touch a whisper against your skin as he traced the line of your soft neck, down your sharp shoulder, and along the curve of your arm. His fingers entwined with yours, warm and reassuring, tugging you gently forward. “I want to show you the books I mentioned this morning.” 

“But Aemond, it will be the evening meal soon. I will not have time to go back and change if we go to the library now.” 

“Then we will have our meal in the library.” 

You arched a brow, a playful smile tugging at your lips. “I am not sure that is proper.” 

“Hmmmm, good thing I am the fearsome one-eyed prince, and no one would dare go against my words.” You liked it when Aemond was playful, you decided. It was a nice contrast to see the teasing quality alight his one eye against the smooth stoicism of his otherwise marbled face. 

“Except your mother. And your grandfather. And Ser Criston...” 

Aemond tugged you harder, a smirk playing at the corner of his mouth. “Quite the jester you are. If you would rather eat dinner with my family...” 

“No, that is quite alright,” you said quickly, a singsong quality to your voice. You matched his stride, but your smile drops slightly when you noticed something on his surcoat. 

“Aemond... is that blood?” 

Aemond looked down at his leathers, then brushed his hand over it as if the specks of blood might disappear with a simple gesture. 

“Do not worry, my lady,” he said, his voice calm but evasive. 

“Aemond, what happened?” 

“ ‘tis nothing,” he replied, his tone reassuring but his eyes betraying a hint of something darker. “Just a minor incident. Nothing for you to concern yourself with.” 

“Aemond...” you began, your concern evident in your voice. 

“Come, please. I would cherish the chance to show you my childhood books,” he interrupted gently, his eyes pleading for you to let the matter rest. 

You sighed, feeling the weight of the unspoken words between you. “Alright... keep your secrets then.” 

“I promise it is not as bad as it may look. Do you trust me?” he asked, his gaze unwavering and earnest. 

You so wanted to. Despite the unease gnawing at you, you smiled softly. “Lead the way, my prince.” 

Aemond's face lit up with a rare smile devoid of the dragon sharpness you had come to associate with him, as he tugged you in the direction of the library. The tension of the moment began to fade, replaced by the warmth of his presence. The flickering torchlight cast dancing shadows on the walls, and the quiet rustle of your combined footsteps echoed through the hallways.  

Looking at Aemond’s strong back you thought that you would find out eventually where the blood came from. Ghosts are patient creatures, after all. 

Next chapter

[coltgroup]

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[thedomesticanthropologist]

What would the bg3 companions do if Tav fixed a home-made meal and cleaned up their stuff for them, studio ghibli style?

I had to take quite a bit of time to think on this one because it would vary wildly depending on /when/ this happened. So, I am re-using my favorite scenario that was widely popularized over 20 years ago by the Gundam Wing fandom for fanfiction purposes, and we are going to say:

"The companions find a safe house where they must hole-up for several weeks before a major confrontation/continuing their journey. It provides a needed opportunity for respite and recovery, a moment to breathe in the eye of the storm." timeline: late Act 3

Tav prepares a home-made meal that takes them the entire day to make. Grilled fish fresh from the river, bread from scratch with herbs from the garden folded into it and butter spread across the top. Potatoes from the garden sliced, seasoned, roasted. Chicken caught and killed that very morning and boiled into a stew with pounds of fresh vegetables - and more. Yams, parsnips, salad greens, All they could find in the cellar, in the surrounding abandoned garden and small farmstead they had settled in. The type of meal that filled a table so thoroughly there was almost no place left to sit if one tried to have their meal at the table.

It had been so long since they had a home to care for, and this journey had given precious little time for such things as careful cleaning and cooking. The little cottage was full of delicious smells, a warm fire burned in the hearth and heated the entire space. The companions, who had all been out for the day on various missions, arrived back to find not only this, but more.

All of the clothes laundered, scented with lavender from the garden. All of their armor polished and scrubbed, weapons cleaned, packs tidied. Rooms swept of cobwebs, bedding replaced. Perhaps a little bit of magic had been used, for everything was dry as well as clean. How would they respond?

Gale: Warmth and joy. He breaks out into a huge smile and fills the room with compliments on everything youve done. A stickler for detail and known for his verbosity, he leaves out no single comment nor does he miss the chance to reflect on what each detail reminds him of - his mothers cooking, his home, the soul-brightening joy of fresh bedding pulled tightly over a clean mattress. He would do all of the clean up after dinner, showing his appreciation not only in words but affirming them with his actions as well.

Karlach: She gets choked up. Honestly. "you didnt have to" isnt on her mind at all, shes just incredibly grateful. You get the biggest bear hug and a shuddering voice of gratitude in your ear. It hasnt been just 'so long' since shes had this level of care- she never has. Nothing like this. She will remember this for the rest of her life, no matter how long or short that life may be. You gave her something that healed a part of her permanently.

Wyll: Flushed and flustered. HE would be heavy on the "you shouldnt have- I would have helped! had you only asked-" Embarassed almost, in the way that he responds, as if he feels bad that he hadnt been able to pre-empt this scenario and find a way of doing it for you first. He feels... guilty. Tries to hide it with gratitude. Is a little quieter than usual.

Lae'zel: Asks what you expect in exchange for services rendered. Makes a quip about you being suited for running an inn as much as you are for battle. Clears her plate, then another. Goes a little quiet for a moment. Then: "You didnt need to. A waste of your time to cater to us thusly. (long pause) .... thank you."

Shadowheart: Questions why, wonders if youve done it to soften the blow of some oncoming bad news. Spends most of her time teasing the other companions for their reactions but in a way where its clear that shes guiding them towards more grateful responses. She smiles at you warmly and softly across the table, eyes twinkling. Her gentle teasing of you is filled with subtle offers of repaying the kindness in ways that you will not be able to expect or predict later on so that she may surprise you in kind. Also, to ensure you cannot reject her because you dont know whats coming or when.

Halsin: Very clearly thanks you with direct eye contact. If your relationship is good, he holds both your hands in his and gives them a firm but caring squeeze. All of his feelings are in his eyes and his words are exceptionally heartfelt and to the point. He has no issues with being appreciative or straightforward, and this meant a lot to him. Offers to run your bath for you later, since Gale is doing the dishes. Probably offers to wash your hair. Comes on to you a bit, he cant help it. Heart eyes 1000%

Astarion: Awkward. Uncomfortable. Initially tries to play it off with pomp and flourish, goes to hint that you just wanted to rifle through everyones things while no one was home. Does, actually, double check all of his belongings. You cant fault him for being who he is. Questions you with a deep frown, but waits to do so until he has you cornered in the back of the hallway where he waited for you to come out of the privy. You reassure him, and hes huffy about it. It takes a lot for him to go from accusational to deflated. Laments he cant enjoy the meal you prepared, only to be presented with a live hog in the store room and a bottle of red wine. You didnt forget. He stares, stutters out his gratitude. Does not apologize for grilling you. Body language towards you for the next few days has a distinct affectionate companionability to it. Small genuine smiles half hidden behind wine glasses.

[secretsandwritinggs]

Um, so here is part four everyone, because I need to be writing something. I’ll let you know that some of these take place before Tory and her brother had moved into the Lawrusso household. [Those will be italics!!] If you have suggestions for headcanons for anyone, a couple, a different fandom, etc let me know so I could work on that for ya 👨‍🍳

Sam and Miguel often don’t talk about Tory due to him still thinking that she hates her.

Sam has spoken to Johnny that her hatred over Tory was childish and decided to let go of it.

(only kind of wished Daniel did the same thing instead of letting it linger 30+ years. In some way, I’d like to think that Daniel always thought of Johnny over those years.)

To help with the grief, Sam gave Tory and Brandon a build-a-bear with a recorded message from their mother.

Tory tends to hang around Sam’s room, because in some way it reminds her of her mother, Brandon also.

Sam has always thought about giving Tory and Robby a room inside the house so they wouldn’t have to live in the apartments.

Amanda would drop by to Tory’s apartment to see if she ever needed anything like toiletries, groceries, medications, etc.

Anthony gave Brandon one of his older tablets before Daniel decided to buy both him and Tory their own devices.

(their “devices” being new phones and such so they could in contact with everyone.)

Sam and Tory’s style went from two separate ones to one shared one ranging what seems like what one would wear versus the other.

Every time Tory seems to be getting worse, Johnny takes her out on the mat or rage room where she can let all those frustrations out, though he’s still unsure where to take Brandon..

For her birthday one year, Sam had gifted Tory a coloring book along with a sketchbook and pencils, since she heard that she enjoys coloring / drawing things.

For her status at the dojo, Daniel had created a new type of “role” for Tory and claimed that she could be a fill-in instead full-time student at Miyagi-Do.

(this is a role that I made as I do not know if this is an actual thing in martial arts, but basically the fill-in student can have its own dojo. In Tory’s case, that means she can still be Cobra Kai if that’s what she’s wanting to do and the same with Robby.)

Their styles reflected through their academics:

Miguel, Robby, Sam, and Tory definitely have study sessions in Sam’s room.

Everyone else looks for Sam to give an answer, since she’s the only one besides Amanda to get a college level academically.

(Anthony following suit once he gets into high school as well.)

Kenny was surprised to see that everyone was civilized with each other however, he wasn’t surprised to see that they were rowdy.

Everyone eats stuff other people’s plates or drink the rest of their drink if they cannot finish their food / drink.

Eventually Sam and Tory started to sound the same so they decided to distance themselves from one another to quote, “get their voices back to normal.”

All the boys collectively hide away in the basement and claim that the girls need a “special pass” to allow themselves in.

Brandon has a hiding space in the theater room.

Johnny drunkenly bought a soda dispenser so they placed it in the theater room.

Tory and Johnny made a secret language so they can communicate with each other similarly to what Daniel and Robby has with morse code.

They all exchange Valentine’s day gifts with each other and definitely laughed at each other the first year they done it, because it was a surprise to everyone now it’s a tradition, lol.

Kyler is for sure a heated conversation in that house to put that lightly…

(Kenny still doesn’t get the hate on him UNTIL Anthony drops all their problems so now he’s like, “Wow, he’s a piece of shit ,” and they’re all like, “We’ve been telling you that”)

Both Anthony and Johnny say tum tum and tummy instead of stomach.

Robby and Sam get the most stomach aches.

(Robby because he’s constipated (poor him tbh) and Sam gets them on her period, since food doesn’t settle too well when she’s on it.)

Sometimes they all nap together after practice at first they thought it was too gross now they just do it whenever without a second thought.

That’s all I can think of for this moment for part four so there might be a part five in the future…

Parts in order: one , two , three , four , ...

[ethereal27cereal]

Cocoa and Cream - Eddie Munson x Plus Size Reader

summary: When a big snowstorm hits town, you and your neighbor Eddie find yourselves shoveling nearly 3 feet of snow off your shared driveway. And the only way to warm up is with a good cup of hot cocoa. Based on the prompt: “You don’t put marshmallows in your hot chocolate? Are you a serial killer or something?” from the lovely @thefreakandthehair​ Spicy Six Holiday Fic Challenge.

warnings: not really any, this is just fluff with some pining and Eddie thinking he is a creep.

genre: neighbors to lovers, fluff

word count: 4K

author’s note: Hiya friends, I hope you all like this one, it was a super cute prompt and I loved writing it. Thank you to @kissmecaiti​ for all of your amazing support and for your adorable last line suggestion. Any comments and feedback are always so appreciated 💕 page divider from @firefly-graphics​

Peeking out of the frosted window, you breathe a sigh to see the snow is finally starting to taper off, if only for a brief moment. Long enough to get out and shovel. Again. You have cleared the front porch and walkway twice, wanting to stay on top of the relentless piles of snow. If you don’t start to make a dent in shoveling away the snow on the driveway, it is going to be at least a week before you’re able to get your car out safely. Living alone has its perks, but being the one who has to shovel in what is shaping up to be the biggest snowstorm of the year is definitely not one of them.

You peer out of the curtains again, debating if you are just going to clear the steadily creeping drifts from the front porch or truly try to tackle the driveway. It is a shared driveway, connecting your single car garage and condo to the mirrored copy of your mysteriously handsome neighbor’s condo and garage. He moved in six months ago and introduced himself as Eddie, immediately captivating you with his soft curls and crooked grin, but you’d not gotten much more out of him since then. He’d given a little wave when you both managed to pull into the drive at the same time, a mumbled apology when returning a package of yours that had accidentally been delivered to him, and baffled ‘thank you’ when you showed up on his doorstep with a plate of warm chocolate chip cookies to show your thanks. Each time he’d always been friendly, albeit a bit shy.

Despite the shyness, Eddie has really been the ideal neighbor. Devastatingly good looking, well that’s not really an important part of the good neighbor criteria, but it certainly helps. He doesn’t have raucous parties every weekend and doesn’t block the driveway all the time like the previous occupant had. The only thing you can possibly find fault with is the late night guitar practice, but that somehow only adds to his intrigue rather than truly being an annoyance.

Once during the sweltering heat of the summer, you'd summoned up the nerve to ask him about his guitar playing, catching him unaware as he absently strummed his acoustic on his front porch. Nerves bubbled in your belly when his smoldering brown eyes flickered over you warily, staring at each other for a moment too long in the glaring sunshine. Bitten chapped lips offered a swift apology for keeping you up late with his playing, and without so much as another glance, he had disappeared into the darkness of his condo, muttering something about the damn heat before you had a chance to stop him.

All the brief exchanges only leave you wanting to know more about him, maybe spend some time with him and perhaps it could lead to something more than just friendly neighbors. But that also might just be wishful thinking and too many romance novels about meet cutes and falling in love with the boy next door. Besides, you’re pretty certain he does not share the same sentiment, seeing as he is barely able to speak to you for more than a minute without finding an excuse to flee. Maybe you just aren’t his type, thick and curvy isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, or maybe he’s just a recluse, but either way, it is boiling down to the facts that his momentary neighborly niceties will most likely not be extending to shoveling nearly three feet of snow off your side of the driveway.

Running out of time with the snow steadily starting to pick back up again, you abandon your fleeting fantasies, deciding it’s now or never and begin to bundle up in your snow clothes. Wrapped up so tightly that only your eyes peek out, you brace yourself against the chill of the wind and step out onto the front porch, tendrils of frost flicking into your lungs and stealing your breath away. The world sounds muffled and softened under its thick blanket of white, the snow falling to the ground lazily with an inaudible sigh, faint crunching under your foot as you trudge out into the winter wonderland.

Armed with your shovel, you clear a path on the porch and walkway within minutes and move on to the larger task at hand. As you round the corner to the front of the house, you spot him, a flickering figure of darkness almost engulfed by stark white. He’s dressed entirely too sparingly for the chill in the air, what looks like alternating layers of denim and leather jackets covering his top half and a pair of very wet looking black jeans clinging to his sturdy thighs. A black beanie pushes down his wild curls, tendrils clinging to his pink cheeks as he looks up from his work when he hears you slowly approaching. After a gloved wave and a smile to your neighbor, Eddie, you start on clearing the heaps of snow that surround your garage door.

Eddie had hoped he would finish shoveling the whole driveway before you came out, but he’s been at it for what feels like hours and is only just now starting to see a dent. The cold is starting to set into his knees, his toes already numb despite the layers of wool socks he had put on before shoving his feet into the thrifted snow boots that are one size too large. His eyes automatically drift over to stare at you, smiling to see you look a whole lot warmer than he feels. You’re bundled up in a puffy purple jacket, shining eyes just barely visible between your thick knit scarf and black beanie that is almost identical to his except for the pom pom bouncing on top. Eddie’s chest tightens, and though he’d like to blame it on the cold, he’s more than certain it’s because he can’t breathe when you’re around.

He knows shoveling all the snow away isn’t the grandest of gestures, but he hopes in a least a little way it does something to make you happy. Just enough of a kindness so he can see your smile before getting too nervous and retreating to the safety of his home before he’s once again plagued by never ending thoughts of you. He’s tried his hardest to be polite and neighborly, fearing if he is anything more it would be verging on creepy, and he’s not looking to start up the same rumors or stereotypes that had been his ceaseless burden to carry in Hawkins.

New town, fresh start where no one knew the name Eddie Munson or cared about his past. He told himself he would be best off if he simply kept to himself, easier not to scare off people when there isn’t anyone close enough to scare off. And at first it was easy. He went to work and came home, collapsing on the couch in front of the TV, chugging a few beers before passing out. Then he’d repeat it all over again, day after day. Until you.

With a persistent smile and an intoxicatingly sweet sundress, you had cornered him by the mailboxes about a month after he moved in. You’d repeated his name when he introduced himself, and the sound of his own stupid name lilting off your tongue should not have made him weak in the knees, but it did. And it still does. Everyday since, he finds himself hoping for more and more little moments with you, feeling butterflies from even the briefest of glances or a fleeting smile you offer his way. He’s ashamed at how many summer nights he lingered out on the front porch to see if you would wander up after your evening walk and talk to him about his guitar playing again, or about anything really. He endlessly agonizes over any reasonable excuse to talk to you before always deciding against it, not wanting to come off as too pushy or forward.

Eddie is sure that if you knew any of this you would cringe. Who wants to live next door to the freak?, he reminds himself over and over while trying not to cling to the crumbs of your neighborly kindnesses. But the truth is, he’s got it bad. Eddie has a crush on you, the girl next door, and he’d shovel six feet of snow if it meant that you didn’t have to.

Snow begins to blur his vision as the thoughts fade and he quickly realizes the blizzard is coming on in full force again. The path he’s cleared in the snow is rapidly being covered again, though not nearly as deep as it was to start, and he groans at the thought of having more snow to shovel before this storm is finished. Defeated, he looks from where he is standing at the end of the driveway to where you’re struggling against the mountainous drifts, looking even more thoroughly defeated than he feels.. You fling a pile of snow off the end of your shovel, only to have the wind whip most of it back into your face. The wind rages again, nearly taking Eddie off his feet and he decides the window of clear shoveling weather has abruptly come to an end.

“You should get back inside, it’s getting pretty bad. I will finish shoveling when the storm dies down again,” Eddie shouts over to you, his voice straining to project into the chill air.

Your pom pom hat bobbles as you turn your head to look at him. You can make out the faint movement of his lips, but the wind swallows all sounds.

“What?” you holler back, setting your shovel down and bracing against another gust. He repeats himself, but you still can’t catch a single word. Frustrated by the distance and your inability to hear, you begin to trudge through the knee deep snow to get to him. Puffy snow pants and unsteady footing do you no favors, and after trekking only a few steps closer, you find yourself face down in a heap of snow. Freezing cold and full of embarrassment.

In a moment of heroic panic, Eddie leaps over snow drifts and crouches by your side, concern streaked across his frigid features. Frosted wetness seeps into the thin denim of his jeans and chills him to the bone, but his only thoughts are on you and if you are alright.

“Shit are you okay?” he worries and pulls you out of the drift by your arms. Your face is dusted with snow, delicate snowflakes clinging to your eyelashes as you flutter them open to look at him. Eddie’s breath catches in his throat, unable to blame it on the frigid air as you cling to his arms and try to steady yourself to a standing position. Nothing seems to be injured, but Eddie scans you up and down just to be sure.

“Ugh, yeah. I mean, my pride is not, but I’m not hurt or anything. Just cold,” you reply with a shiver, leaning into him to savor the feeling of him supporting your weight for just a moment longer and expecting him to let go. But he doesn’t. His arm wraps around your waist, sheltering you against the wind as he guides you towards your front door.  

“Let’s get you inside. This wind is brutal, and you look absolutely freezing.” His breath blows warm against your cheek when he whispers directly into your ear, not letting the storm consume his words again.

Once safely inside, Eddie releases his hold on you suddenly, cold wind sucking the air from your lungs and the strain of shoveling leaving you weaker in the knees than expected and you unceremoniously plop down on the floor.

“Woah! Are you sure you’re okay there, Y/N?” Eddie drops to his knees next to you, his ungloved hand wavering in a dangerous debate of whether or not to touch you again. You stare at him blankly, only able to dwell on how this is the first time you think he’s ever said your name. It sounds sweet, like sticky warm honey dripping from his lips and warming you from the inside out despite the nagging chill that has taken up residence under your skin.

“Y/N?” Eddie repeats again, even more dulcet in its refrain, but the perplexed look of concern on his face forces your reply.

“Yes, sorry, I’m fine. Just more exhausted than I thought I was,” you respond, aiming to give a reassuring smile that you’re pretty sure comes out as a grimace. In an effort to get more comfortable and regulate your body temperature, you begin shedding layers, chucking off your hat and gloves then unzipping your jacket and tossing it beside you. Letting out a huff you get to your feet, Eddie’s hand offering gentle support at your elbow so you don’t slip and fall on the wet floor.

Without much thought for your company, you kick off your snow boots and begin to wiggle out of your snow pants. It’s an action that leaves Eddie flustered and turning away with pink cheeks and his heart beating wildly, trying not to stare at the swell of your thighs and hips when you’re fully revealed in a pair of skin hugging long johns and a turtleneck that is leaving far too little up to his imagination.

“I, uhh, well, if you’re alright I should probably go,” Eddie coughs and looks down at his feet.

“No, no, please stay. I can make some hot chocolate. As a thank you. For shoveling and for rescuing me from the snow,” you laugh, a contagiously joyful sound and Eddie cannot say no.

— -

After offering Eddie an old pair of sweatpants to change into since his jeans are soaked, he settles in at the tiny kitchen table, looking stiff and uncomfortably shy while you busy yourself at the stove with heating the chocolate and sugar mixture. You try to fill the silence with small talk, asking about his job at the local auto shop and sharing little things here and there about your interests. He opens up slowly, offering up some tidbits of information, and becoming increasingly animated when he talks about his love of metal music and reading fantasy novels. He confesses that he is relatively new in town, so he doesn’t really do much in his free time besides read and play guitar.

Eddie clams up when you ask about where he moved here from, a tight lipped response telling you it’s best to drop it and move on to something else, but he circles back.

“Sorry, I’m being such a dick. You’re just trying to be nice and ask questions, and I’m being an asshole. I’m sorry,” Eddie apologizes, tugging a strand of frizzy curls in front of his lips as he speaks.

“It’s alright, you don’t have to tell me anything you don’t want to. I’m just glad you’re saying more than one or two words to me. I feel like I’ve been the annoying neighbor getting in your business all the time,” you reply with an unsure smile. He regards you softly for a moment, eyebrows knitting together in thought as he weighs his words.

“You’ve not been annoying at all. I’m just not used to the friendly neighbor kind of thing, I guess. I’m just kind of used to people pretending I don’t exist. But it’s nice. You’re nice. I mean, yeah,” Eddie rambles, ending with a huff and a wince at his own pitiful words. You don’t reply, but offer a thoughtful hmm as you carefully pour the milk into the pan of boiling chocolate and begin to stir.

“Well I think you’re nice too. Hot chocolate is almost ready. I can also whip up some whipped cream for the top if you’d like,” you suggest, trying not to bubble over at the simplest of compliments that he thinks you’re nice.  

“You don’t have to do that if it’s too much trouble. I’m good with just marshmallows,” Eddie waves his hand with his words, thinking nothing of his request.

“Oh, um, sorry, I don’t have any marshmallows. I don’t ever put them in my hot chocolate,” you apologize and can tell immediately that your response has absolutely dumbfounded Eddie, his face contorting with confusion as he stares blankly at you.  

“What? You don’t put marshmallows in your hot chocolate?”

“Well, I don’t really like them,” you shrug absently, turning to stir the warming hot chocolate and then back to face him again.

“Hold on a minute, back up. You don’t like marshmallows and you don’t put them in your hot chocolate…are you a serial killer or something?” Eddie jests with a laugh, and you shrug again. “Who doesn’t like marshmallows? They are delicious. And then you pop them on some hot chocolate and you have the best winter time drink there is.” With each word, Eddie is becoming more animated, sitting up in his chair and speaking with his hands. A smile creeping across his face as he tries to prove this ever so important point to you.

“They’re just too sweet. And they ruin perfectly good hot chocolate by forming that weird gelatinous goop layer on top when they don’t melt all the way. Whipped cream is the only appropriate topping for hot chocolate,” you retort with a smirk. You swing open the fridge and grab out the carton of heavy whipping cream, wiggling it in his direction before going on. “And homemade whipped cream is by far the superior hot chocolate topping compared to any Kraft Jet-Puffed bullshit.”

“I did not know that I was living right next door to such a staunch marshmallow hater. I can’t believe I was going to shovel your whole side of the driveway. I’m not even sure if I can accept this hot chocolate as a token of your thanks anymore,” he shakes his head with another hearty laugh and acts as if he’s going to stand up to leave before locking eyes with you and offering a devilish grin.

“Hey now, if this isn’t the best hot chocolate you’ve ever had, then I will shovel both sides of the driveway,” you promise with an earnest look that makes his heart swell.

“That seems like an unfair deal to make seeing as there is no possible way you can win without marshmallows,” Eddie remarks playfully.

“Fine, if tasting my extra special cream isn’t enough for you, then I will just have to find some other way to thank you properly.” You wink and giggle, delighting in the look of shock on his boyish features before plugging in the hand mixer and settling the metal beaters into the bowl of heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla.

Eddie’s cheeks flush red, fading softly to rosy pink as he clears his throat, inaudible over the hum of the mixer. He isn’t sure if you intended or meant anything by the salacious sounding offer, but he’d be lying if thoughts of you in that way hadn’t crossed his mind at least once or twice, or more, over the last six months. And the thought that you might want him in a similar way sends his brain reeling. His eyes are fixed to the soft sway and wiggle of your ample hips as you continue mixing, staring far longer than just a friendly neighbor should. Eddie is certain he is dangerously close to losing any last ounce of cool he has when you turn off the mixer and dip your finger into the cream, your plump lips closing around the digit and sucking it clean with a wet popping sound.

He lets out a ragged breath and chooses to focus on the frayed holes forming in the faded fabric of the borrowed sweatpants, poking his finger against his thigh to concentrate on something other than you. Eddie wills himself to calm the fuck down, she’s just being kind and neighborly. Just because she has a perfect ass and the most kissable lips you’ve ever seen, doesn’t mean you are getting any. Don’t be creepy. Eddie chides to himself, hoping that more deep breaths will steady his fluttering heart and stifle the throbbing feeling in the pit of his stomach that is threatening to spread south.

He can't, however, tune out the sweetly satisfied hum you make after adding another dash of vanilla and tasting the whipped cream again, the sound reverberating in his ears like a song he never wants to forget.  

“Perfect!” You declare proudly, releasing your finger from your lips and turning to smile at Eddie. “Do you like a lot or a little whipped cream?”

“Ermm, I will let you decide,” he responds quietly, unable to meet your eyes as if you might be able to see all the thoughts racing through his head.

“A lot it is then,” you plop a generous dollop of cream on top of the steaming chocolatey drink and bring it over to him with a smile. He thanks you shyly and takes a timid first sip, trying to avoid getting the whipped cream up his nose.

“Okay, I’m just going to say that you are objectively wrong about marshmallows, but holy shit, this is the best hot chocolate I have ever had,” Eddie admits, finally meeting your eyes as you sit down at the small table and pull your chair close to his, knees bumping his under the table.

“And the whipped cream?”

“It’s delicious. I will agree that homemade whipped cream is a top tier hot chocolate topping, and yours is really fucking good,” his voice drops lower as he emphasizes each word, sending an unexpected shiver down your spine.

“Better than marshmallows?” you tease and take a sip of your own hot chocolate, letting the hot drink warm your belly.

“Don’t get ahead of yourself there, sweetheart,” Eddie chuckles and takes another drink. He is less careful this time and pulls the mug away from his face to reveal his lips and nose covered in whipped cream. He looks at you playfully, knowing full well that he looks like a whipped cream covered fool, but he can’t be bothered to care at the moment.

“You’ve got a little…,” you giggle and tap your nose at him. Eddie’s chocolate colored eyes are filled with a devious mirth as he dips his finger into his whipped cream and boops a dollop of it onto your nose with a laugh.

“Now we match.”

“Not quite.” You smile and stare at his soft creamy lips, stomach doing flips as you lean forward, placing a tentative hand on his shaking knee. Your lips press into his in fluttering delicate whipped creamed kiss, stealing the breath from your lungs and all the thoughts from your head. He freezes for a moment, heart beating faster as your gentle kiss slowly warms him head to toe until he feels like he’s on fire. Your lips are sweet and soft against his, cocoa and cream lingering on his tongue as he loses himself deeper in the kiss. You pull away slowly, peppering whispered kisses against his lips and finally on his nose to get up the last of the whipped cream.

Eddie’s eyes meet yours, dripping caramel and full of reverent wonder before he kisses away the remnants of whipped cream from your face.

“I’ve wanted to do that for a while,” Eddie admits with a nervous laugh, his hands weaving together with yours as you scoot your chair closer to his.

“I have too. And I told you I would find a way to fully thank you if my whipped cream didn’t fully live up to your insane marshmallow expectations.” A giggle ripples from your chest as the air finally returns to your lungs, not realizing you’d been holding your breath until now. Eddie laughs along with you, smiling so hard his cheeks hurt.

“So, uh, if that’s the thank you had in mind for just for shoveling the driveway, what do I get if I mow the whole lawn?” he wiggles his eyebrows playfully, testing his luck because surely this must all be some frost bitten fantasy he has conjured up in his head. But, sure enough, you squeeze his hand and grin back at him, a teasing fire in your eyes that even the heaviest of blizzards can’t put out.

“Guess you’ll have to stay till spring and find out.”

Tags of some people who might be interested: @boomhauer @wtf-lindsay @a-time-for-wolvess @b-irock @beep-beep-sherlock @wroteclassicaly @littledemondani @chickpeadumpsterfire @aftermidnightwriting @seidenbros

[cognitivejustice]

YOKOHAMA CIRCULAR DESIGN MUSEUM is a mobile museum that provides fun experiences in circular and sustainable living. The theme of the exhibition is “PLAYFUL CIRCULARITY.” You will encounter a wide variety of unique up-cycled items, artwork made from waste materials, locally made food, and other products and services that are sophisticated and beautifully designed.

Circular Yokohama has created “Circular Gacha,” a capsule toy machine that visitors can play with by inserting PET bottle caps, with the aim of creating opportunities for people to enjoy experiencing regional and resource recycling. The capsules that serve as prizes contain recyclable goods manufactured by businesses in Yokohama City, and visitors can obtain one of the prizes in exchange for a PET bottle cap.

“buøy” is a project to transform discarded ocean plastic into beautiful traditional crafts. It was born from an in-house project called “Plas + tech project”, which began in Technolab Co., Ltd., a product design company based in Kanagawa ward, Yokohama.

The idea behind “buøy” is that the essential cause of the ocean plastic pollution is not “material itself of plastic,” but the “human habit of using and discarding it easily.” Mass-produced plastic is discarded because it is seen as an inexpensive “commodity” that can be easily replaced. However, if it is beautiful and only one original “craft” in the world, can we still throw them away? No, we would care them more carefully. A craft dish made from ocean plastic garbage came out of this idea.

buøy’s beautiful design was realized by a special manufacturing method. It utilizes the properties of plastic, which melts with heat and hardens when cooled, and presses products at a constant pressure while applying heat. This makes it possible to create beautiful molded plates while mixing different types and colors of plastic materials. This method is currently patent-pending.

The ocean plastic garbage used as the material for buøy was collected by Technolabo staff on the Zushi Coast in Kanagawa, and the project fund was raised by crowdfunding.

any many many more at the museum link