#Retro Bar Tools

[syosset56]

[angelremnants]

Between Strength & Style l L. Laufeyson

PART ONE.⠀WHERE LUXE MEETS RESILIENCE...

summary : Loki’s probationary stint with the Avengers takes a surprising turn when Thor insists on dragging him to the team’s fluorescent-lit gym—a place he deems far beneath his dignity. His disdain shifts the moment you stride in with effortless confidence, transforming the mundane gym into your personal runway, commanding the room and worse, directly challenging his ego. Determined not to be overshadowed, Loki initiated a playful competition, vying to outshine you as the gym’s reigning fashionista. Yet, what began as irritation soon evolved into intrigue—and an electric chemistry taking place between you and forcing him to confront not only your undeniable allure but also his own battle for self-control. The only question left was: how many Fridays would pass before one of you finally caves in?

pairing : Loki Laufeyson x f!reader

warnings : Mature (16+), slow burn, eventual romance, eventual smut, sexual tension & innuendos (lots of it), suggestive content, flirting & teasing, emotional conflict, strong language. Proceed with caution if you're sensitive to such material.

word count : 15k

author's notes : And we're kicking off 2025 with me being an absolute simp for Loki and blending my gym goals with my fantasies. Huge shoutout to my ex the gym rat—I would’ve been completely lost without all the knowledge he dropped on me and the playful gym flirting we shared. Side note: I was listening to Sting at some point and couldn't help but notice how the chorus fit Loki so well: "I'm a legal alien, I'm an Englishman in New York". :')

I know I was supposed to start on my next Steve fic, but this silly little idea just couldn’t wait to take shape. It was so fun, I honestly spent my time laughing my ass off while writing some dialogues and screaming at certain things I wrote. :p

Find the continuation here.

(ao3 version)

⠀

The Avengers had a strict, almost religious adherence to fitness. The gym wasn’t just a facility; it was a cornerstone of their lifestyle. Staying in peak physical condition was non-negotiable—after all, the world's fate occasionally hinged on how fast you could sprint, how hard you could punch, or how much stamina you could muster during a battle. It had become an unspoken sanctuary for them, a place that bridged their shared mission and personal pursuits. Within its walls, they weren’t gods, soldiers, or assassins. They were simply people, sweating out their stress and pushing their limits like anyone else.

But make no mistake—the Avengers’ gym was far from ordinary.

Spanning two gleaming floors in Stark Tower, it boasted everything a superhero could ever need: state-of-the-art equipment that looked more like experimental prototypes than fitness tools, reinforced floors capable of withstanding Thor’s hammer tosses or Hulk’s occasional tantrums, and enough space to host activities ranging from sparring matches to aerial combat simulations. Tony Stark, ever the showman, had outfitted the space with panoramic windows that overlooked Manhattan, creating a breathtaking backdrop for their grueling workouts. The sound system piped in everything from Steve’s retro playlist to Natasha’s instrumental beats, depending on who got to the controls first. And, of course, there was the infamous juice bar, complete with personalized protein blends and a weekly “Tony Special” that no one dared try twice.

Attendance wasn’t optional. Fitness was woven into the very fabric of their lives, an unspoken rule that even the most reluctant team members adhered to. It wasn’t just about preparing for missions—it was about maintaining discipline, bonding as a team, and, for some, finding a momentary escape from the weight of their responsibilities.

Fridays were sacred.

Steve Rogers had instituted weekly group training sessions with all the fervor of a drill sergeant assembling his troops. These weren’t just about staying in shape—they were a way to assess the team’s physical and mental states when they were off duty, to spot weaknesses, and to build camaraderie. But “lighthearted” was a generous term when describing these gatherings.

“Lighthearted” was a stretch when it came to some members of the team. 

Steve approached his workouts with military precision, every move calculated and methodical. He was a relentless taskmaster, his circuits punishing even for those who had superhuman strength. Natasha was equally intense, her fluid, controlled movements a testament to her assassin’s training. She moved through her routines like a panther on the hunt—silent, deadly, and impossibly graceful. Clint, in contrast, trained like a lone wolf, using the quieter corners of the gym to fine-tune his aim or practice his balance on precarious surfaces.

Thor treated every session as a challenge to prove his godly might. His booming laughter echoed off the walls as he lifted weights that no one else could budge or turned sparring matches into theatrical displays of Asgardian strength. Bucky stayed at the edges, quiet and focused, his every movement deliberate as though his training was less about fitness and more about control. And then there was Tony, who somehow managed to mix workouts with tinkering. It wasn’t uncommon to see him squatting with a set of repulsors strapped to his wrists, testing their durability mid-session.

The gym was, in short, a finely tuned machine—a symphony of sweat, grit, and camaraderie.

And then Loki entered the picture.

He hated the gym. He loathed it. The very concept of it offended his sensibilities, a joke to his Asgardian practices. The idea of “working out” was not only unnecessary for someone of his divine stature but also painfully mortal in its mundanity. To the God of Mischief, the gym was a prison masquerading as a temple. The sweat, the grunts, the clanging of metal against metal—it was all so beneath him. He didn’t need to build strength or stamina; he was a god. And yet, as part of his probationary agreement to join the Avengers, Loki was expected to participate. 

Why on Midgard—or any realm, for that matter—would one willingly subject themselves to mundane physical labor? For a god, no less? The idea was completely ridiculous, though he had quickly learned that this argument did not hold much weight when hurled at Thor or any of the other Avengers.

He resisted, of course. Loki had become something of an escape artist when it came to group gym sessions, weaving elaborate excuses and literal illusions to avoid stepping foot into the gym. He had tried every trick in his arsenal to escape these sessions: conjuring illusions of himself running laps, pretending to bear injuries, and even disappearing mid-session with a sly smirk and the faint shimmer of green magic. Once, he had gone as far as feigning a “sudden illness,” complete with a convincing pallor and a strategically weakened gait. 

But none of that worked.

Loki suspected that Stark’s Artificial Intelligence, F.R.I.D.A.Y., was in league with Thor, keeping tabs on his every move and dutifully reporting his attempts to escape. Every time he tried to slip through the cracks, a disembodied voice would politely but firmly inform Thor of his absence. Loki didn’t have proof, but he had a sneaking suspicion that Stark had programmed the AI specifically to torment him.

Without fail, his brother would drag him back to the fluorescent-lit hellhole of the gym, wielding Mjolnir like a schoolteacher brandishing a ruler. Loki suspected that Thor took far too much joy in these acts, his booming laughter often echoing through the gym as he tossed Loki over his shoulder like a sack of flour.

“Brother,” Thor would say, his voice tinged with amusement as he brandished Mjolnir, “you may think yourself above this, but if you wish to remain part of this team, you will endure it like the rest of us.”

And so, Loki endured, dragged back to the fluorescent-lit purgatory of the gym time and time again.

But if the clanging weights and Thor’s incessant laughter grated on Loki, nothing annoyed him more than you.

You were his antithesis in every conceivable way. Where Loki saw the gym as a prison, you saw it as a sanctuary. You thrived there, radiating an energy that he found both baffling and irritating. You weren’t loud like Thor, nor were you the silent, brooding type like Bucky. Instead, you were relentless—a force of nature who tackled workouts with a precision that rivaled Clint’s arrows.

You always seemed to have an easy smile, a flicker of amusement dancing in your eyes as you darted between machines or launched into another grueling set. You approached every workout with enthusiasm, treating each challenge like a personal battle to be won. Your determination was palpable, your focus unshakeable. But it wasn’t your dedication to the gym that truly got under Loki’s skin; it was your attitude.

You had no qualms about speaking your mind, and you were quick to match Loki’s biting sarcasm with quips of your own. Your sharp tongue, paired with your unflappable demeanor, made you a particularly fun target for Loki’s antics. He found your relentless optimism grating, and your tendency to challenge him downright infuriating. But it was precisely these traits that made you so... fun to provoke.

Quite frankly, he found solace in riling you up.

All he had to do was comment on your form, or question the weight you were lifting, and you would rise to the bait every time. It was, he supposed, the only thing that made these wretched sessions bearable.

Of course, he didn’t think much of you beyond that. You were a mortal, after all. A clever one, perhaps, but still mortal. The fact that you managed to worm your way under his skin so easily was simply a testament to his boredom, nothing more.

At least, that’s what he told himself.

Loki had discovered this during his very first group session. You had called him out—publicly, no less—for standing idly by while the rest of the team warmed up.

“What’s the matter, Princess?” you had teased, hands on your hips. “Afraid you’ll chip a nail?”

The room had gone silent, all eyes darting between you and the god as they waited for his response. 

The corner of his mouth had twitched, a glimmer of amusement flashing in his emerald eyes. “Hardly,” he drawled, his voice as smooth as silk. “But I fail to see the point of mimicking your primitive rituals when I could achieve the same results with a flick of my magic.”

“Oh, sure,” you had shot back, unperturbed. “Because magic’s going to save your ass when you’re out of breath halfway through a chase.”

The tension broke with Thor’s booming laugh, followed by Steve’s approving nod.

From that day on, it had become a game between the two of you. He would conjure illusions to distract you mid-set, question your form with exaggerated disdain, or mutter sarcastic comments just loud enough for you to hear. For all his protests, Loki found himself looking forward to these exchanges. You were clever, sharper than most mortals, and your unflappable confidence intrigued him.

And you? You gave as good as you got. You’d roll your eyes at his dramatics, challenge him to exercises he clearly despised, or make snide remarks about his “delicate Asgardian constitution.”

It was all in good fun—or so you told yourself.

The peculiarity of your training wasn’t just the intensity or the focus—it was the way you turned the gym into your runway. Where others wore functional athletic gear, you brought a level of fashion that could only be described as couture-meets-athleisure. You had an eye for proportions and colors, pairing fitted leggings with chic cropped tops, effortlessly layering with lightweight jackets, or wearing statement sneakers that seemed designed to catch the light just right. Even in the middle of a grueling set, you exuded confidence, every movement precise and deliberate, every outfit an unspoken declaration: I own this space.

You knew you looked good. Whether or not you consciously acknowledged the wandering eyes that followed you, you thrived on the attention, making it clear—without ever saying a word—that you were the reigning queen of the gym. There was a proud tilt to your chin, a glimmer in your eyes as you caught your reflection in the mirrors, as if silently reminding yourself that you had earned this. And for good reason. The way you carried yourself was a testament to your hard work, a visual declaration of pride in your strength and discipline.

Even Loki, who had spent most of his time mocking your relentless energy and discipline, could not deny the appeal. His sharp tongue rarely stilled when you were around, but more often than not, it masked the moments when his eyes lingered a fraction too long. He told himself it was merely curiosity—analyzing your absurd obsession with turning every mundane workout into a parade of style and flair. Yet, there were times, in between his biting remarks, when he caught himself watching you with a strange mix of irritation and intrigue, noting the way the faint sheen of sweat only seemed to enhance your glow rather than detract from it.

The more he observed, the more he realized just how much you enjoyed being the center of attention. Not in a boastful or arrogant way, but with a quiet confidence that made it clear you knew you were admired. And that, of course, irked him to no end. You had claimed a throne he hadn’t even realized existed until now—the crown of the gym’s fashion icon, the darling of the Avengers' collective admiration.

Loki was no stranger to attention. He had spent centuries perfecting the art of standing out, whether in Asgard’s golden halls or Midgard’s bustling cities. His wardrobe was a testament to his vanity: sleek, tailored suits, flowing robes, sharp leathers—whatever suited the weather, his mood or the gender he chose to embody for the day. He prided himself on his taste, on his ability to effortlessly outshine others with his sense of style. He was, after all, a god. If anyone could dethrone you, it would be him.

The idea took root almost immediately: Loki would dethrone you as the gym’s reigning fashionista. It wasn’t about vanity—well, perhaps it was—but it was also about proving a point. If anyone deserved to claim the title of sartorial excellence, it was him. The God of Mischief would reign supreme, even in this mundane, sweat-soaked realm.

He decided right then and there that this wasn’t just about workouts anymore. This was war.

And Loki? He intended to win.

After all, he was always destined to be king. What’s another throne stolen, if only a metaphorical one?

⠀

⠀

The first Friday Loki launched his attack was one for the books.

The gym buzzed with the familiar sounds of clanking weights, motivational shouts, and the hum of treadmills. Steve was barking out orders to a pair of rookies who were trying to figure out how to do a proper squat, Thor was loudly boasting about his ability to deadlift more than any mortal in the room, and Tony—typical Tony—was multitasking on the treadmill, holding a holographic interface in one hand while doing intervals. You and Natasha had just finished a punishing round of planks and were at the juice bar, catching your breath and swapping jokes about the ridiculous amount of protein shakes people seemed to consume in this place.

Her sharp wit and easy banter were usually more than enough to distract you from any physical discomfort, but not today.

Even Natasha couldn’t hold your attention when he walked in.

You noticed the shift in the air before you even saw him. At first, you didn’t quite register what was happening. It was subtle, like a wave of electricity passing through the room. Conversations slowed. People’s movements faltered for a split second. Even the sound of clanging weights seemed to dull slightly, as if the gym collectively held its breath in anticipation. You could feel eyes shifting toward the entrance, and when you looked over, you nearly choked on your spit.

There he was.

Loki Laufeyson, God of Mischief, Prince of Asgard, and notorious gym hater, strolled into the gym like it was his personal parade. You’d seen him here before, of course. Usually, he lingered in the background, arms folded, observing Thor’s attempts to get him involved in some sibling rivalry over strength. But today? Today was different.

For one, he wasn’t wearing his usual dark leathers or Asgardian garb. Instead, he had opted for what could only be described as a masterclass in Midgardian gym couture. A black compression tank clung to his lean, lithe frame like it was painted on, emphasizing every sculpted muscle with effortless precision. The deep armholes revealed teasing glimpses of his toned sides, and the dark fabric set off his alabaster skin in an almost unfair way.

The material emphasized his toned arms, his chest, and the subtle flex of his abs when he moved. Every inch of him was artfully showcased, and it seemed to have the exact effect he was after. The room was practically buzzing with appreciative glances.

But that wasn’t even the most distracting part.

His joggers—dark, fitted, and stretching just enough over his thighs—hugged his legs in a way that could only be described as sinful. They tapered neatly at the ankles, revealing his bare feet, adorned in simple black trainers. A few people did a double-take, but you, of course, noticed all of it. And you hated how your eyes traced the lines of his body despite yourself.

And then there was his hair.

Usually wild and untamed, his raven locks were now swept back into a low, effortlessly messy bun. It looked like he had spent exactly five seconds on it, yet it was somehow perfect. Casual but purposeful, messy but precise. And for reasons you couldn’t entirely explain, it made your stomach flutter in a way you definitely didn’t want to admit.

“He’s up to something,” you muttered, narrowing your eyes at him.  “And I don’t like it.”

You didn’t realize you were staring so intently at him until Natasha spoke.

“What gave it away?” she asked with a sly grin, lifting her protein shake to her lips. “The way he’s strutting across the room like he’s starring in a fashion show, or the fact that his outfit looks like something straight off a GQ cover?”

"That’s the thing," you sneered under your breath, huffing as you crossed your arms. "He’s way too comfortable here."

Natasha just quirked an eyebrow and chuckled. “Uh-huh. You know, I always wondered if he could look that good without his usual dramatic flair. Turns out, he’s even more distracting in gym gear than in his Asgardian getup.”

Your scowl deepened as Loki’s gaze swept lazily across the gym, lingering for just a moment too long when it reached you. He tilted his head, his smirk curving even further, before continuing his casual prowl toward the free weights.

“He’s not even here to work out,” you said, turning back to Natasha.

“Of course he’s not,” she replied, her lips quirking into a sly smile. “He’s here to annoy you. And judging by the way you’re staring at him, it’s working.”

You shot Natasha a sharp look, but her grin only widened. She was thoroughly enjoying this. You had to admit, Loki's presence was causing more of a stir than you'd anticipated, and despite your best efforts, your eyes kept drifting back to him.

He was moving through the gym now, his casual stride somehow managing to command attention in a place filled with some of the strongest people you knew. He wasn’t even trying, and that made it worse.

“I am not staring,” you hissed, trying to desperately convince yourself while jerking your eyes away from him and fixing them firmly on Natasha.

She raised an eyebrow, unimpressed. “Sure you’re not. But hey, I get it. The hair’s doing things. The arms, too.”

“Natasha.”

“What? I’m just saying, he’s got the whole ‘tall, dark and handsome in gym gear’ thing down. Maybe that’s the real mischief—making everyone forget they’re supposed to be lifting weights and not staring at him. It’s distracting. And you’re totally distracted.”

"Not happening," you retorted, but your voice was a little less convincing than you wanted it to be. You couldn’t deny that the sight of Loki in a fitted tank top that clung just right to his lean frame, revealing the subtle play of muscles beneath, was an attention-grabber. His joggers did nothing to mask the long, graceful lines of his legs, and as he moved, you found yourself noticing details you'd previously managed to ignore: the effortless way his black hair framed his face, the glint in his eyes that always seemed to carry a secret he was more than happy to keep.

Loki seemed aware of the effect he was having, too. When his gaze flicked toward you again, the smirk curling at the corners of his lips was downright smug. He knew, and he reveled in it. You braced yourself, straightening up and setting your shoulders as his long strides carried him across the gym floor. He stopped in front of you, arms crossed over his chest, his smirk firmly in place.

“Enjoying the view, pet?” His voice was smooth and rich, and you hated the way it sent a shiver down your spine. You mirrored his position and also crossed your arms, tilting your head as you glared up at him.

“Hardly,” you shot back. “I was just wondering if you’d finally decided to try blending in with the rest of us mortals.”

“Ah, yes,” he drawled, glancing down at his outfit with mock curiosity. “Midgardian spandex. Quite the cultural achievement. Though I must admit, it’s a step up from those garish uniforms Stark insists upon.”

You rolled your eyes, but the heat creeping up your neck betrayed you. “You look like you’re about to pose for GQ, not lift weights.”

Loki leaned a little closer, his smirk never faltering. “I’m afraid you’re simply crossed that the star of today’s show is most certainly me." His eyes glittered with amusement as they swept down your form before meeting yours again. "You’re not the first to notice. But don’t worry, I’m used to the attention.”

You opened your mouth to retort, but Natasha cut in with a snort of laughter.

“Alright, you two, break it up,” she said, waving her hand between you like a referee. “Some of us are here to actually work out.”

Loki’s smirk didn’t falter as he straightened, his green eyes flicking to Natasha with a glint of amusement. “Far be it from me to interrupt such noble pursuits, Agent Romanoff.” He turned back to you, his gaze lingering just a moment too long. “Try not to let me distract you, pet.”

And with that, he sauntered off toward the free weights, his long strides and effortless grace drawing more than a few admiring glances as he went.

Natasha watched him go, then turned to you with a knowing grin. “You’re blushing.”

“I am not,” you snapped, though the blood rushing up your face betrayed you.

“Right,” Natasha interrupted, sounding far too amused for her own good. “Maybe you could distract yourself from him for a second, unless of course, you’re planning to throw yourself at him like everyone else.” She waved a hand, rolling her eyes dramatically.

“Natasha!” you hissed, but it didn’t have the desired effect—she was grinning from ear to ear.

“Don’t deny it,” she slyly replied as she sipped her shake. “You know, I’ve seen him make a lot of people mad, but I’ve never seen him this dedicated to pissing someone off. Congrats, I guess?”

“He’s not pissing me off,” you muttered, glaring at Loki’s retreating back. “He’s just… annoying.”

“Sure,” Natasha said, smirking.

Before you could formulate any kind of retort, a low whistle cut through the air. You turned toward the sound just in time to see Loki doing overhead presses with a pair of heavy dumbbells. His presence seemed to have an almost magnetic pull, and as he passed by a group of agents, several of them couldn’t help but glance at him—some even a little too long, caught in the spell of his unnerving charisma. His movements were slow and controlled, every line of his body radiating strength and precision. The tight top did little to hide the way his muscles flexed with each lift, and the sheen of sweat on his skin only seemed to amplify the effect.

One of the agents passing by all but stopped in his tracks, staring openly at him with wide eyes. Loki, as always, was quick to notice. He paused in the middle of his walk, glancing over his shoulder, his lips curling into a devilish smirk.

“Oh dear, careful there,” he called out, his voice smooth and teasing. “You might want to watch where you’re looking. I’d hate for a fetching creature like you to trip over the lingering effect of my charm.”

The agent, a relatively new recruit, blushed crimson and stumbled in his walk, fumbling with his dumbbell as if it had suddenly gained weight. Loki’s smile only widened as he slowly lowered his gaze to the ground, as if examining his almost clumsy reaction.

“Ah,” he said with mock disappointment, “we wouldn’t want to add embarrassment to your list of misfortunes, would we?”

The poor man muttered something incoherent, cheeks burning brighter as he hurried away, his awkwardness palpable. Loki’s chuckle, soft and teasing, echoed in the air behind him, and he turned back to his dumbbells with the ease of someone who had just won a victory in an ongoing game.

“Oh my god,” Natasha groaned, half-amused, half-exasperated. “You have to go give him a taste of his own medicine.”

You glared at the back of Loki's head, watching him grab a towel and casually drape it over his shoulder, his arrogance practically dripping from every movement.

“You’re right. Game on,” you muttered, pushing yourself up from your seat and striding toward him with quiet determination. If he wanted to play this game, you were more than ready to beat him at it.

Natasha laughed, clearly enjoying the spectacle. “That’s the spirit. Now go wipe that smug grin off his face.”

As you approached, you saw Loki glance over at you, his eyes narrowing ever so slightly as a grin tugged at the corners of his lips. He was expecting you.

“Ah, she finally manifests herself,” he began, tilting his head slightly, “come to join the ranks of my admirers? Or is this simply an opportunity for you to bask in my presence?"

You shot him a look of feigned disinterest, crossing your arms over your chest as you leaned against the free weights beside him.

“Not exactly,” you replied coolly. “I just wanted to see if you’d been working on your form, or if you were still too busy flexing in the mirror.”

Loki chuckled, a rich sound that practically oozed with self-assurance. “Ah, I see,” he said slowly, leaning in just a little, enough to lower his voice to a near-whisper. “So you’re one of those who prefers to focus on technique over the end result. Admirable. But I must confess…” He leaned closer still, until his lips were just inches from your ear. “The result is the technique.”

You felt a flare of heat rush to your face, but you refused to let him see it. Instead, you gave him a pointed look, stepping back and crossing your arms more firmly. “Keep telling yourself that,” you said, offering him a smirk of your own. “But if you’re planning to keep distracting everyone with your ‘technique,’ maybe you should get a private room. The rest of us are here to work.”

Loki’s eyes gleamed with mischief as he straightened up, flicking his towel over his shoulder and sending you an almost playful glance. “Oh, I do love a challenge,” he murmured, as though the words were a promise, and then he effortlessly turned away to continue his workout.You stood there, your mind still swirling with that smug little smirk and the way his breath had brushed so close to your skin. It was far from over, and you had no intention of letting him think he’d won this round. Game on, Trickster.

⠀

⠀

The second Friday had a palpable tension in the air, as if everyone knew something was going to shift today, but no one knew exactly how. The gym was quieter than usual, with a sense of anticipation hanging over the team like a thick fog. You, however, had a different idea for today. You weren’t the same as the others—always polished, always well put-together in some way, but today you were about to leave everyone guessing.

You walked into the room in an outfit that could not have been further from your usual appearance. Your sweatpants were a dull gray, high-waisted and hanging just right on your frame, but enough to leave the wandering eye guessing about the shape of your form. The hoodie you wore was oversized, swallowing your frame, the sleeves long enough to hang just past your fingertips. The hoodie’s color was muted, and the cap pulled up over your head was the only thing that hinted at the familiar sense of control you usually had. Your hair was left down today, cascading in soft waves, slightly tangled from the lack of attention yet still effortlessly styled. There was no sleekness, no polished edge to your look—just simplicity and ease. Somehow, it worked, and there was a quiet power in how little effort it seemed to take.

You casually crossed the gym toward the wall, water bottle in hand, and you could already feel the eyes of your teammates following you. The contrast between your normal, tightly controlled persona and the relaxed, effortless confidence you radiated today was enough to make anyone pause and take notice. But the person you were waiting for—the one you knew would be most affected by your transformation—was Loki.

Sure enough, not long after, said god walked in. His usual tight-fitting black workout gear was his go-to for showing off, the sleek fabric hugging his frame, every movement emphasizing the muscles that rippled beneath the material. But today, unlike last week when he had gone for a polished yet sharp look, Loki’s attention seemed caught somewhere between sizing you up and attempting to keep his usual air of superiority.

As he entered the gym, his eyes immediately flicked over to you. You were sitting cross-legged against the wall, deep in conversation with Bucky. His sharp gaze narrowed, and the familiar smirk—half taunt, half self-assured—made its way to his lips. Loki sauntered toward you with that characteristic air of confidence, almost like he had an agenda that involved rubbing your nose in it.

"Quite the shift in wardrobe, isn’t it?" Loki’s voice cut through your conversation, dripping with that same playful taunt. “Did last week’s little performance leave you with a sudden desire to renounce attention? Perhaps you're now looking to blend in, like a shadow?”

Your lips quirked up in a sly smile as you took a slow sip from your water bottle, not even bothering to look up at him right away. The only acknowledgment you gave him was a slight raise of your eyebrow, eyes still trained on Bucky as you finished your conversation with him. The lack of immediate reaction seemed to throw Loki off, just as you had intended.

The soldier standing beside you shot a look at Loki, his grin widening. “Careful, puny god,” he intervened, his voice a little too amused. “You’re starting to sound like one of those bad guys in the movies who can’t get the girl’s attention, and it’s driving him crazy.”

You suppressed a chuckle, casting a brief glance at your companion before returning your attention to the task at hand. Loki, however, wasn’t so easily dismissed. His gaze lingered on you, searching for a hint of reaction.

“Oh, Loki,” you replied casually, meeting his gaze only after taking your time. “Not everything has to be a performance. Some of us are just here to focus."

The words were simple, but there was an underlying confidence in them that made Loki’s smirk falter for a fraction of a second. He tilted his head slightly, his sharp green eyes narrowing as he tried to process your response. He wasn’t used to being ignored or dismissed in such a calm manner, especially by you. It was a reaction you’d like getting used to, and you couldn’t help but feel a bit smug about it. Loki, the god who prided himself on control, was already thrown off by your indifference.

Before he could respond, Steve’s voice rang out across the gym, cutting through the tension.

“Alright, Avengers, time to assemble!” Steve called, and immediately, the atmosphere shifted as everyone gathered to form pairs. You could hear the shuffle of feet and the sound of various team members cracking their knuckles, ready for the workout ahead.

You stretched your arms overhead, muscles extending lazily. You had no intention of getting up nor getting overly involved in today’s sparring session, not unless it was absolutely necessary. 

“Think I’ll stay over there today,” you said in your usual low, steady voice. “Proximity combat is a little too personal for me, anyway. I prefer to prepare mentally first.”

Steve shot you a wry smile. “I understand, [Y/N], but this is hands-on. Come on, get in there. The more you work with the team, the better.”

You sighed, rolling your eyes dramatically but without actually showing any reluctance. “Don’t worry about me, Cap, I’ll be fine. I already did my warm-up, anyway.”

Loki, who had been watching the exchange, raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised that you weren’t jumping at the chance to compete. “Oh, please. You can’t tell me you're actually avoiding the fight today.”

You gave him a look that was more bemused than anything else, the faintest smirk playing at the corner of your lips. “Not avoiding anything. Just taking my time. We all have our methods.”

You had never been one to show off, but you could tell that he was getting increasingly intrigued by your laid-back confidence. He didn’t know how to react when you weren’t playing his usual game. You weren’t worried about the training session itself, but Loki was. He was keenly aware of the dynamic, especially when the pairs were being called up.

"Tell me, does the simplicity of your attire reflect the simplicity of your game?" Loki asked, his voice smooth like velvet, but with a sharp edge that betrayed his curiosity. His eyes scanned you, lingering for a moment longer than they should have, his smirk never faltering.

You glanced over, a slow, amused smile tugging at your lips. "You’ll find out soon enough, Loki. When it’s my turn."

“Is this some sort of riddle?” he asked, his tone darkening, a hint of annoyance creeping in. “You think you can just dismiss me like I’m some passing distraction?”

You simply smirked, taking another casual sip of water, making a show of it to further ruffle his feathers. “Not a game, Loki. Just not interested in playing along today.”

Bucky desperately tried to hide his growing smirk as he nudged you playfully. “Ouch, man. Looks like you’re losing her to the whole 'I’m too cool for you' vibe.” He could barely keep his voice steady as he watched the Asgardian scowl.

He was so used to being the one in control of the situation, not the one scrambling to keep up. And now, it seemed you were throwing him off his game entirely, which only served to heighten his fascination with you.

With one last glance at the two of you, Loki muttered under his breath, “This isn’t over.” The tension was palpable, but before he could say anything more, Steve’s voice called out, signaling the start of the upcoming matches.

The duos for the first round were quickly formed, each chosen based on skill sets, strengths, and weaknesses. The first pair to face off was Loki and Sam, and as the match began, it was immediately clear that Loki was in his element. Every move he made was calculated, and fluid, his body working in perfect harmony with his sharp instincts. There was an intensity to his movements that commanded attention—the way he twisted with the grace of a predator, the elegance of someone who had trained in the art of deception and control for centuries. His magic flickered at the edges, as if it too was eager to lend him an edge. It wasn’t long before Sam found himself outclassed, Loki easily outmaneuvering him with a mixture of skill and playfulness that left no room for doubt. The moment Sam stumbled, Loki was there, his victory secured with minimal effort, a smirk already forming on his lips as he looked down at his defeated opponent.

He strode toward the sidelines, his posture exaggerated with pride, every step oozing with the quiet confidence of someone who knew exactly what he was capable of. He could practically feel the attention of the room on him, the admiration of his peers—it was a familiar sensation.

But when his eyes sought out yours, expecting to find at least some hint of acknowledgment, he was met with the unexpected: you were looking at Bucky, engaged in a casual conversation with him. You weren’t watching him. Not even a passing glance. Your attention was fully on Bucky, your face soft with that effortless smile you reserved only for certain people. It made Loki pause mid-stride, his brows furrowing as he tried to reconcile the fact that, for once, you seemed completely uninterested in his performance.

He felt a strange unease twist in his chest, something he couldn’t quite place. The indifference you showed was almost palpable, and it hit harder than any of the quips or taunts that usually got under his skin. Surely, you just hadn’t noticed? Or maybe you were playing coy, pretending to be unimpressed? The thought made him grin a little wider, but the feeling gnawing at him didn’t go away. You weren't looking at him, and it wasn’t just that—there was something in the way you laughed with the soldier, something that made him feel like an outsider, a player who had been left on the bench.

His eyes narrowed, and without thinking, he shifted his attention back to Sam who was still recovering from their match, his expression darkening. He wasn’t used to this. To this feeling of being... disregarded. Of being ordinary.

Bucky leaned in closer to you, his voice low and teasing. “Think you’ve got him rattled already?”

You shrugged nonchalantly, finally giving him a small, playful look. “Could be. I want to think so, but I don’t want to give him the pleasure of looking at him and making it seem like I care about his reaction.”

“Well, this should be fun,” Bucky said in a low voice, enough so only you could hear him. “Loki’s not used to being ignored, is he?”

You shot him a dry look. “Not in the slightest.”

Bucky chuckled softly, his tone full of amusement. “Must be getting a rude awakening, then.”

Your indifference was practically driving said god crazy, and he scowled even deeper when Steve called your name to get into position for the next match. "Oh come on, not now," you muttered, rolling your eyes. "Is it really necessary?"

The blonde’s usual cap-tipped grin only deepened. "Yes, now get moving."

Bucky gave you a small, encouraging nod. “You’ve got this,” he said with a grin that suggested he knew exactly that they were all in for a spectacle. “Show him what you’re made of.”

With an exaggerated sigh that seemed to draw every eye in the gym, you smoothly rose from the ground, taking your time. Every step was measured, as if you weren’t in any rush to show what you were capable of. The others could feel the shift in the air around you, the subtle yet undeniable presence that you commanded without a single word. You could practically feel the way Loki���s eyes followed every movement you made, but you didn’t let it faze you. 

Slowly, deliberately, you pulled your hoodie off. The gym, which had been buzzing with conversation and the light sounds of stretching, seemed to pause as every set of eyes turned toward you. The motion was so effortless, it almost seemed like choreography, and as the fabric slipped away from your body, revealing what was underneath, there was a collective shift in the air.

The defined lines of your abs came into view first, marking your taut skin that spoke of years of dedication, strength and control. The tight sports bra you wore accentuated every curve, every inch of muscle you had worked so hard to sculpt. Your sweatpants, low-slung and hanging just enough to showcase the V-lines that traced your inner thighs, fit you in a way that didn’t demand attention—but it certainly garnered it. The room seemed to suddenly lack air, and you could feel the temperature rise as the atmosphere shifted from casual banter to a raw, electric tension.

Loki’s gaze immediately swept over you, his pupils dilating as he took in the full scope of your appearance. His eyes flicked all the way down your body, then traced back up to your face, but it was the way he was looking—like he couldn’t quite focus on any one part of you—that gave you a clue to how he was feeling. His sharp breath, barely audible in the silence, was the only sound you could hear over the thumping of your own heart, but the way his chest rose and fell gave away more than words ever could. He wasn’t prepared for this. He hadn’t expected you to be... so revealing.

You dramatically tossed the hoodie back to your previous spot, where Bucky effortlessly caught it mid-air. With a playful smirk, he let out a teasing wolf whistle, clearly amused by the scene. “Damn, doll,” he called you out with a grin. “Lookin’ like a fine piece of art over here.”

Loki’s head snapped toward him, his eyes narrowing dangerously. “Must you be so uncouth, Barnes?” he bit out, his tone sharp but laced with just a hint of indignation. The faint twitch in his jaw betrayed the irritation simmering beneath his cool facade, though whether it was directed at Bucky or his flustered reaction, even Loki couldn’t quite say.

Bucky, entirely unfazed, chuckled and tossed the hoodie onto the bench. “Relax, snowflake. Just calling it like I see it.”

You reached up to gather your hair into a ponytail in a swift and efficient movement, but there was a quiet grace to it that only added to the overall aura you exuded. The way your muscles flexed as you tied it back, the fluidity of the motion, all of it seemed effortless, second nature to you. It was all the more striking against Loki’s own dramatic flair—theatrical, exaggerated, designed to draw eyes to him. He was used to being the one who commanded the room with a mere flick of his wrist, the one who could manipulate and control with his every movement. But now? Now, it was your body that spoke louder than any words or gestures ever could.

Loki's breath hitched imperceptibly, a momentary lapse in his carefully constructed composure.  His jaw tightened, his body tensing as he tried to regain control of himself, his eyes momentarily lingering longer than they should on the soft curve of your waist, the way your hips swayed when you took your first step toward the arena. Every part of you, every inch of skin and muscle, seemed to demand attention—yet, you didn’t seem to care about it. You were focused, your steps silent but certain as you advanced toward the battleground, the confidence in your stride undeniable.

You reached the center of the arena and gave him one last, almost imperceptible glance, and that was enough to make him falter. His heart rate had picked up, and he cursed under his breath. His usual self-assurance had wavered, replaced by an unfamiliar unease. There was something about the way you carried yourself—like you were a force of nature, untouchable, yet impossible to ignore—that rattled him in a way that very few people had. He could feel his composure cracking under the weight of the attention you hadn’t even realized you were commanding.

The arena buzzed again, the murmur of voices rising as your opponent—the one who would face you next—looked on, unsure whether to be impressed or intimidated. But Loki, for all his control, could not shake the feeling that he was the one standing on unstable ground.

And then, Steve announced the match-up.

“Loki and [Y/N], your turn.”

Loki’s eyes narrowed as he turned his attention toward you, his smirk faltering for just a split second. It was subtle, but it was there—an almost imperceptible shift in his usual confidence. He watched you move into position, calm and collected, your very presence seemed to knock him off balance. The way you stood there, completely unaffected by his earlier display, only served to fan the flames in his mind.

He couldn’t let you get away with this. Not again. Not when you were so effortlessly pulling his attention in every direction, when your quiet strength was becoming impossible to ignore. The playful taunt he had been intending to throw your way now carried an undercurrent of something he couldn’t quite acknowledge, but still something that bothered him. He knew what it was, even if he didn’t want to admit it. It was frustration. 

“Ready to taste defeat, pet?” Loki’s voice rang out, smooth and velvety, laced with both a challenge and amusement. The words slipped effortlessly from his tongue, but beneath the surface, the slight tremor of frustration lingered. His green eyes watched you intently, like a predator sizing up its prey, but there was something more. Something you couldn’t quite define, but you could feel it crawling beneath the surface.

You tilted your head slightly, the movement small but deliberate, eyes narrowing just the slightest as your lips quirked upward in a knowing smile. Your posture remained relaxed, but there was a steel edge to the way you carried yourself now—a quiet strength that seemed to radiate outward. You could feel the way the entire gym was watching, how every inch of focus had shifted onto the two of you, but you didn’t let it faze you. Your gaze met his without hesitation, and you matched his playful tone with one of your own, voice light but carrying an underlying confidence that made it clear you were anything but intimidated.

“I’m not the one aching for a taste of something, Trickster,” you replied smoothly, the words slipping off your tongue like a promise. The glint in your eye—the challenging, unwavering look that met his—spoke volumes. You weren’t just here to go through the motions. You weren’t here to entertain him, or anyone else. You were here to prove something. “I’ve been waiting for this.”

Loki's smirk faltered for just a fraction of a second, the faintest hint of surprise at the blatant innuendo flickering across his face before it vanished. He recovered quickly, though, leaning into the moment as his expression shifted into something far more dangerous—half amusement, half intrigued.

“Careful now,” he growled, his voice lowering ever so slightly, the edges smoother than before but carrying an unmistakable sharpness. The faint flush creeping up his neck betrayed him, but his gaze never wavered, studying you like you were a puzzle he hadn’t quite solved. “Promises like that tend to come with consequences.”

The words hung in the air between you, thick with meaning. It wasn’t a threat; it was a statement of intent. You were ready for this moment, for the challenge he presented, and you weren’t backing down. Your cool demeanor only served to heighten the electric tension between you. He could feel it now—how you were playing him at his own game, how your words and actions were slowly chipping away at the armor of self-assurance he’d spent so long building.

Bucky stood near the sidelines, arms crossed casually over his chest as he kept his gaze fixed on the two of you. His focus never wavered as he observed the back-and-forth between you and Loki. There was something electric in the air, and he couldn’t help but feel a little more invested in the outcome than he expected. 

With a wry grin tugging at the corner of his lips, Bucky leaned in toward Steve, who had been quietly watching the exchange with growing interest. He whispered under his breath, careful not to break the flow of the moment, but unable to hide the amusement in his voice. “I think she’s got him right where she wants him.”

Steve glanced over at him, brow slightly raised in curiosity and a smirk already playing at the corners of his mouth, betraying his ever-serious Captain demeanor. “You think so?”

Bucky nodded, eyes flicking back to you as you casually prepared for the sparring match by wrapping your knuckles, your body language practically dripping with self-assurance. “Oh yeah, definitely,” he assured, voice low but filled with confidence. “Loki’s too used to getting the upper hand in these things, but this time she’s challenging him for the spot. And you can tell he’s not sure how to handle it.”

Steve’s eyes followed the scene with a thoughtful expression, the wheels turning in his head as he took in the dynamic. He gave his best friend a knowing glance, a small smile tugging at his lips. “Well, let’s see how she handles it,” he said, voice laced with a quiet confidence of his own. “Kid’s got a good head on her shoulders.”

The atmosphere in the gym felt electrified, thick with the unspoken tension between you and Loki. The sharp clang of Steve's voice signaling the start of the match barely registered as your focus narrowed on his every movement. His sharp gaze stayed locked on you, calculating and predatory, his posture deceptively relaxed but ready to strike.

True to form, Loki made the first move, his steps smooth and predatory as he closed the gap with surprising speed. He didn’t waste time, weaving in with a series of feints meant to throw you off. But you didn’t flinch. Instead, you shifted closer into his range in grand audacity, your movements fluid and unyielding as you met him head-on. The sharp crack of his elbow slicing through the air missed its mark as you deflected it with a quick parry, your forearm brushing his as you stepped into his space.

Loki’s lips quirked upward, a sly smirk tugging at the corners. “Not bad,” he slipped in, his voice smooth and low, as though he was testing you and complimenting you at the same time.

But you didn’t give him the satisfaction of a response. You used the momentum of his strike to pivot, bringing your body closer to his, forcing him to retreat a step. The shift in proximity wasn’t lost on him, and you caught the flicker of surprise that darted across his features before his mask of confidence returned.

He countered quickly, twisting to trap your wrist in an attempt to throw you off balance, but you slipped free, ducking low and sweeping a leg toward his. Loki leaped back to avoid the sweep, his quick reflexes saving him from the mat, but the action pushed him further off his rhythm.

Your advantage grew as the fight devolved into sharp close combat, every movement a test of speed and control. Loki was fast, his strikes calculated and deliberate, but you were faster, your motions seamless as you anticipated his next move. Each block, deflection, and strike left him recalibrating, searching for an opening that simply wasn’t there.

You could see the irritation brewing in his expression, the sharp edge in his narrowed eyes as his breath came heavier. He wasn’t used to being outmaneuvered, least of all so consistently. You could practically feel the frustration radiating off him.

“Frustrated already?” you teased, your voice light but challenging as you ducked under another swipe and leaned in close, your breath brushing against his jaw for just a second before you danced back out of reach.

Loki’s jaw tightened, his smirk slipping for the first time as his focus sharpened. He surged forward suddenly, his arms locking around your wrist to pull you off balance, but you twisted fluidly, your bodies nearly colliding as you maneuvered out of the hold. The shift brought you chest to chest for a brief second, the proximity enough to unnerve even Loki.

“Come on, Trickster,” you taunted, your voice dropping just slightly as you glanced up at him through your lashes. “Is that all you’ve got?”

The faint pink that crept up his neck wasn’t missed. His grip faltered, just slightly, but it was enough. You capitalized instantly, slipping free and ducking beneath his arm. Before he could react, you shifted close again, pressing your palm to his chest—not hard, just enough to distract him. And then, with a smirk that he didn’t quite know how to interpret, you did the unexpected: you leaned in, just enough for your lips to brush the shell of his ear.

“Gotcha,” you whispered.

It was barely a breath, a fleeting moment, but it sent him reeling. His entire body stiffened, caught entirely off guard by the motion, and his split-second hesitation was all you needed. Twisting sharply, you hooked your leg behind his and used your momentum to pull him off balance. Loki stumbled, his footing completely lost as his back hit the mat with a thud.

You stepped back, grinning down at him as you straightened, your breath steady despite the exertion. You watched as his chest rose and fell sharply, his flushed face half-hidden beneath the mess of dark hair that had fallen into his eyes.

“Better luck next time,” you said in an almost teasing way, the tension between you growing even thicker. “Though I do appreciate the effort.” The gym was quiet, save for the faint sound of his breath catching in his throat as he tried to regain his composure. You could feel the electricity in the air intensifying, the challenge now fully embraced.

Loki’s eyes burned with frustration, his pride wounded more than he cared to admit. He was a god, accustomed to being the center of attention, controlling every situation with a flick of his wrist and a smirk. But you—you—had managed to completely dismantle that with nothing more than your calm confidence and precision.

His teeth ground together as he shot you a glare, seething with irritation. “You’re playing a dangerous game, [Y/N],” he said, his voice sharp, but there was an undeniable fluster behind the words—his usual control slipping with every passing second. He was not used to being made to look like this, to being outmaneuvered so effortlessly.

You didn’t even seem to acknowledge the weight of his threat, instead smoothly backing off, a casual smirk tugging at the corner of your lips. “What can I say? I like keeping things interesting. Can’t have you getting bored,” you replied, voice light, but with a mischievous twinkle in your eye.

And that was it. The last straw.

Loki, already feeling his temper flare, lunged at you with an almost animal-like snarl, hoping to catch you off guard this time. But you were prepared. The moment he moved, you shifted your weight with that same effortless grace, sidestepping him like he was nothing more than a fly. 

With a flick of your wrist, you sent him crashing down onto the mat, hard.

There was a beat of silence as Loki lay there, chest heaving in disbelief, eyes wide and mouth slightly agape. His hair, usually so perfectly styled, was now mussed, and his cloak was askew. The whole scene was a jarring contrast to the image he’d worked so hard to maintain.

He swallowed hard, attempting to steady himself, but the way you stood over him with such quiet authority made it impossible to focus. Your presence was imposing, your posture effortlessly graceful, and every movement you made seemed carefully coordinated. The slight tilt of your head, the faint curve of a smirk on your lips—everything about you exuded control. It was clear you had the upper hand, and the effect it had on him was both unsettling and undeniable. His eyes, despite his best efforts, couldn’t help but be drawn to the way your form exuded power and confidence. The sharp lines of your body, the subtle flex of your abs as you shifted, the slight forward tilt of your pelvis as you crossed your arms—it was all framed perfectly by the soft glow of the gym light, and it hit him like a revelation. He had underestimated you in more ways than one.

Bucky, watching from the sidelines, couldn’t suppress a grin. “Well, that was something alright,” he said, voice dripping with amusement. 

Steve, who’d been quietly observing the exchange, let out a sigh, shaking his head. “This is going to be a long day, isn’t it?”

You glanced at the two of them, your lips curving into an easy smile as you wiped your hands. “Don’t worry about him,” you said lightly, your tone teasing. “He’s just a little startled. He’ll recover.”

Loki, still on the mat, let out a frustrated growl, his face flushed with both anger and something that felt a little too much like embarrassment. He glared up at you, unable to hide the flustered irritation that now flooded his system. He wasn’t used to this. This wasn’t how things were supposed to go. He was supposed to be the one in control, the one who had the upper hand. And yet, here he was, on the floor, defeated by someone who had barely broken a sweat.

As you turned to leave, talking with Bucky and Steve, Loki seethed, his body still tense with the humiliation of it all. This is not over, he thought, his mind racing for a way to redeem himself. I will get her back for this.

But for now, he lay there, absolutely flustered, trying to control the mix of emotions swirling inside him—irritation, pride, and a hint of something else he wasn’t ready to confront yet. He quickly stood up, adjusting his clothes and trying to compose himself, but there was no mistaking the flush in his cheeks and the tightness in his jaw.

“Oh, I’ll have my revenge,” Loki muttered to himself, eyes narrowing as he watched you from across the room, his heart still pounding in his chest. “Just wait.”

The 1-1 was marked on Loki’s scorecard, and as he slowly pushed himself up, he scowled, trying to shake off the lingering effect your victory had on him. The amused look you gave him only deepened his irritation, but one thing was clear: this was far from over.You laughed with your compeers, completely oblivious to the storm you’d just stirred up in his mind that began to race with plans, schemes, and the faintest spark of something else—a determination that he would be the one getting the last laugh.

⠀

⠀

You hadn’t seen Loki all week. After that chaotic Friday showdown, you assumed it was finally over—that the tension had reached its peak and now it would settle back into normal gym routines. You’d thought that, maybe, you’d taught him a lesson he wouldn’t forget.

But as you were talking to Sam and Tony, venting your frustration, you heard the unmistakable sound of feline steps hitting the floor. You knew that stride all too well. Of course, it was him. And, of course, he was about to make an entrance.

“Oh, you’ve got to be fucking kidding me,” you scoffed, disbelief dripping from your tone. The week of silence had made you forget how intense things could get when Loki was around. You thought you’d dodged a bullet, but it seemed the universe had other plans.

Sam's eyes gleamed with amusement, a slow smile spreading across his face. Tony, on the other hand, barely hid his grin. Both of them knew full well what Loki's reappearance meant.

“Woman, you really thought he was going to let it go after that last little scene?” Sam chuckled, his voice low but full of amusement. He leaned back against the wall, crossing his arms and watching Loki’s every move with a knowing gaze. “The guy’s like a cockroach. You just handed him the perfect reason to come back for more.”

Tony, ever the instigator, didn’t miss a beat. He shot you a teasing grin, leaning in slightly as he waggled his eyebrows. “So, that was quite the performance last Friday,” he said, voice dripping with sarcasm as he gestured between you and the door. “And here I thought you had him all figured out. Looks like I was wrong. Clearly.” He dragged the word out for emphasis, clearly enjoying the aftermath of that heated moment between you and Loki.

Your eyes narrowed at Tony as you placed your hands on your hips, half in annoyance, half in amusement. You couldn't hide the corner of your mouth twitching upward, despite your best efforts to keep the facade of irritation intact. The whole match had been a rollercoaster, and as much as you’d convinced yourself you’d come out on top, you couldn’t shake the nagging feeling that you hadn’t fully won. The mind games, the tension… they were far from over.

“I thought I had the upper hand,” you muttered, rolling your eyes in mock exasperation. “I mean, after that last move, he was the one on the floor looking like he’d been hit by a freight train.” You stopped, catching the flicker of doubt creeping in at the edges of your thoughts. “Guess I underestimated him.”

Tony shook his head, grinning like the cat who got the cream. “Oh no, you’ve got it all wrong, Glamazon. Frosty loved that show. He ate it up. It’s exactly what he needed to get under your skin. You made it too easy. I’m almost impressed.” He jerked his thumb toward the door, where Loki had just entered the gym.

And damn, was it hard to look away.

Loki walked in, his usual air of confidence radiating through every step, like nothing had ever happened. But this time, the outfit was different. Daring, even. He strode into the gym with the kind of assurance that made everyone in the room turn their heads. And there was no denying it—he was flaunting it. The dark green, form-fitting performance shirt clung to his torso in a way that left little to the imagination. The mesh on the sides and back offered tantalizing glimpses of his skin, daring you to look, daring you to react. It wasn’t just the fit—it was the challenge in his very presence.

And then, the shorts. Those shorts. High-slit athletic wear, the gold trim practically glowing against the black fabric. You could feel the heat of your gaze flicker down, almost involuntarily, as the slits revealed a generous portion of his toned thigh, the compression leggings underneath leaving just enough to the imagination. The effect was maddening, and you found yourself completely captivated by the sight.

As he walked by, each step seemed to make the slits ride up higher, exposing more of those muscular thighs. Your gaze lingered a moment longer than you intended. The way his legs flexed with every stride sent an unexpected jolt through you, a wave of heat rushing to your chest. You felt the urge to look away, but it was impossible. The image of his thighs—powerful, perfectly sculpted—began to invade your mind.

A sudden thought hit you, one you couldn't shake. You imagined your hands trailing up those legs, feeling the tension in his muscles, the heat of his skin beneath your fingers. The thought of running your hands over them made your breath catch, your mind racing with vivid fantasies of what it would feel like to be wrapped around those thighs. Get it together, you mentally scolded yourself, but it was too late. The fantasy clung to you like a stubborn shadow.

He was just so damn shameless. And so tempting. Everything about him was designed to taunt, to provoke, to ensnare. And as much as you wanted to resist, your body had other ideas. Loki knew exactly what he was doing—every glance, every step calculated to make you lose control.

You exhaled slowly, trying to regain composure. Two can play at this game, you thought, your mind racing to formulate a response. You weren’t going to back down. Not now.

Sam let out a low whistle, leaning closer to you. “Okay, I see what you’re dealing with,” he said, glancing between you and Loki with a grin. “I don’t know, man, looks like he’s really trying to get under your skin today.” His voice was teasing, but there was a glint of seriousness in his eyes. He knew this wasn’t just about working out—it was about playing mind games. And Loki was very good at them.

Tony, as always, had to add his two cents. “Oh, I get it now. This is one of those ‘play hard to get’ things, huh? You can’t fool us. We all know you’re enjoying the view. The guy practically glows with that outfit. And we all know what happened last Friday... that little show you two put on? No one’s forgotten about it. Puny god sure hasn’t.” He grinned, watching you closely, clearly enjoying how uncomfortable you were getting under the weight of their teasing.

You scowled at him, trying to suppress the heat that was rushing to your cheeks. “We were just messing around,” you muttered, crossing your arms over your chest. “And it was all him, to be fair.”

Tony raised both hands in mock surrender. “Yeah, and I’m the next Pope.” He gave you a knowing look, his grin wide and mischief written all over his face. “I saw the way you two were looking at each other. That wasn’t just a wrestling match, it reeked of flirting. Ew, by the way.”

“Tony, you’re closer to being the Antichrist than the Pope,” you shot back, your voice dry with sarcasm.

You groaned, suddenly aware of the gossip that was circulating among your friends. Sam and Tony had seen through it all—they knew exactly what was going on. And now, they were feeding off of it, enjoying your discomfort.

Loki, however, had already caught wind of the attention he was drawing. As he stepped into the center of the room, his eyes slid over to you, catching your gaze for just a moment. The smirk that tugged at the corner of his lips was nothing short of dangerous. He wasn’t fazed by the gym’s collective attention. In fact, it seemed like he was basking in it, as if this was exactly what he wanted.

Loki gave you a once-over, his gaze lingering longer than necessary. It was as if he knew exactly what was going through your mind. His lips curled into that mischievous smile that always made your stomach do flips. There was something about the way he looked at you—something far more personal than just the game he was playing. And you couldn’t help but notice the gold chain dangling from his neck, glinting in the light. It was subtle, but it caught your attention. And you couldn’t help but imagine how it would feel, how it would look, catching it in your teeth as you—

“Well, then,” Loki’s voice broke through your thoughts, smooth as silk. “I hope you’re ready for round three, my dear. I wouldn’t want to disappoint.”

The words hit you like a wave, and for a moment, you were speechless. He’d been watching you, observing you, knowing exactly what effect he was having. You couldn't suppress the thought that came rushing to your mind: Oh, I’m definitely up for more rounds than you can think of.

And then, just as quickly, the heat rushed to your cheeks in embarrassment. You quickly pushed the thought away, trying to regain your composure.

Sam and Tony exchanged amused glances. They clearly weren’t going to let this go anytime soon.

“I spy with my falcon eye someone looking a little flustered,” Sam said with a raised eyebrow, his tone light but laced with amusement. He glanced over at Loki before turning his attention back to you. “Something you want to share with the class?”

Tony leaned back, crossing his arms as he took in the scene, his grin growing wider. “I don’t know, Tweety. I think we’re witnessing something here.” He looked at Loki and then back at you, practically gleaming with mischief. “It’s like a reality show, but better. Someone cue the theme music.”

You rolled your eyes, your face still warm. “I’m just trying to get through my workout. Can you guys not make this awkward?”

Loki’s gaze flickered between Sam, Tony, and you, his smirk curling deeper. “Ah, I see,” he said smoothly, his voice rich with amusement as he took a step closer. “Trying to keep your cool while the circus goes on around you.” He lingered a moment, eyeing you like a predator sizing up its prey. “But, my dear, there’s no harm in keeping things… entertaining.” His tone dropped lower, almost sultry. “Are you sure you don’t want me to keep you company while you work out? I’ll be here, of course, but don’t let me distract you.”

Sam smirked, his arms still crossed. “Bit too late for that, buddy.”

You rolled your eyes, trying to fight the rush of heat flooding your cheeks. “No, thank you. I’m just trying to get through my session without it turning into a drama show.”

Tony chuckled, looking between you and Loki. “Go on, do your thing, Ms. Olympia. We’ll be here, making sure everything’s as interesting as it can be.”

You huffed, shaking your head at them, desperate to regain some sense of focus. “I can’t even work out with you two around. It’s like I’m in some kind of bad sitcom.”

Loki chuckled darkly behind you, the sound low and wicked. His voice dropped, more teasing now. “Perhaps you’d like me to… help you with that focus issue. It’s a bit hard to concentrate when your thoughts keep wandering, don’t you think?”

Sam let out a low whistle, clearly enjoying this a bit too much. “Ooh, this is good. I’m here for it.”

Tony grinned, raising a thumb up in approval. “Keep it up, you two.”

With that, you turned on your heel and walked toward the leg press machine while grumbling about how you were surrounded by complete fools. You could feel Loki’s eyes following you, the intensity of his gaze almost tangible on your back. You tried to tune it out, but every step you took, every breath you drew, was tainted by the knowledge that he was watching. And it was impossible to ignore.

The air in the gym felt thick with anticipation as you adjusted your position on the leg press machine, trying your best to ignore the electric pull of Loki’s presence just a few feet away. It was supposed to be a simple leg day. Squats, lunges, some basic machines, a few stretches—nothing too exciting. But the way Loki was setting up at the squat rack, his movements so deliberate, made it clear this was no ordinary gym session.

Your mind had barely adjusted when he began his first set, the weight crashing down with a sharp thud. You couldn’t help but glance over, just for a second. His posture was perfect—shoulders broad, chest out, a small hint of a smirk curling at his lips. The man knew how to draw attention, and the workout attire didn’t help either.

But then it started—the thing you had been dreading.

Loki moved to the mat and set up for hip thrusts, his back against the bench, his legs spread wide to grip the weight bar. The moment the weight began to lift, his breath hitched, low and guttural. A soft groan slipped from his lips as he pushed his hips forward, and despite yourself, you glanced over to his form.

Your pulse quickened as you watched his muscles tense, his body arching in that perfect, rhythmic thrust. You tried to tear your eyes away, telling yourself it wasn’t a big deal. It was just an exercise. Just an exercise. Just focus on your own workout.

But it was impossible. The sound of Loki’s breath—those soft, strained groans that seemed to vibrate through the floor—was distracting. Each thrust, each controlled movement of his hips, echoed in your mind. You tried to ignore it, biting your lip as you switched positions and grabbed your weights. Deep breath. In. Out.

You couldn’t.

Every time Loki’s hips rose, there was that groan. That low, guttural sound that was more sensation than sound. It made your skin tingle in ways you couldn’t understand. Your thoughts were already turning to places they shouldn’t. The images, vivid and undeniable, started to form in your mind—hands trailing up your legs, the way his body moved with power, the flex of his muscles beneath your touch.

"Focus," you told yourself, but it was getting harder by the second. You quickly shoved your headphones in, cranking up the volume as loud as it would go. The thumping bass of your playlist should’ve drowned out the world. But it didn’t. Loki’s grunts still filtered through, faint but undeniably there, and now they were mixing with the beat of your music in ways that had you gripping the machine a little too tight.

Stop it, you mentally scolded yourself. It’s just a workout. He’s just... working out.

But the thoughts wouldn’t stop. You couldn’t stop imagining what it would be like to feel those powerful thighs under your hands, your body pressed against his, those same hips that were now thrusting against the air. His groan vibrated through your very chest, and the fantasy came alive—too alive. You tried to force it down, but it lingered, stubborn and insistent.

You focused on your leg press, forcing your body into the motions. Down, up, down, up. Your legs were burning, but your focus was elsewhere, your body aching for the release of tension you couldn’t get. Loki’s continued grunts—soft, rhythmic—were driving you mad.

Suddenly, you felt the eyes on you again. You glanced up, catching a glimpse of him watching you, that dangerous smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. He was watching you, studying you. He didn’t even pause his workout, his hips thrusting upward again with a languid fluidity that had your breath catching in your throat. He knew. He knew exactly what he was doing, knew the effect he was having on you. His eyes lingered just a second too long, and you saw the flicker of smugness on his face.

Before you could even fully process the shift in the air, Loki suddenly appeared at your side, startling you. You flinched, and before you could react, he moved one of your earpieces to the side, his fingers brushing dangerously close to your ear. You stiffened, dismay flooding through you as his touch lingered a moment too long. You hadn’t even noticed him move, and now, with him standing so close, you couldn’t focus on anything else.

“You look like you’re struggling,” he remarked, his voice smooth, dripping with an edge of mischief that made your skin heat. You glanced over, but quickly averted your eyes when his locked onto yours. That familiar smirk tugged at his lips, and you couldn’t help the flutter in your stomach. 

Your heart skipped a beat as you looked up, meeting his knowing gaze. There was no escape now, not even in the sanctuary of your headphones.

"You've been staring," he purred, the teasing lilt of his voice making your pulse race. "Can't keep your eyes off me, can you?"

Hearing him speak made those deep, sensual sounds that slipped from his lips earlier strike your memory again in a thick whiplash. Your focus wavered, unable to hold its ground. The way he moved, the way he seemed to possess every inch of the gym with his presence—it was too much. The thought of him so near, teasing you without words, had your thoughts spinning, your concentration slipping further.

“I can help you, if you’d like,” Loki added casually, his voice now dipped in a teasing tone that made your skin flush. “I wouldn’t want you to hurt yourself, after all. It would be such a shame if you... collapsed under the weight. You wouldn’t want to get yourself into any kind of... compromising position now, would you?”

Your heart skipped, but you kept your cool. You bit your lip, trying to focus on the weights in front of you, and not the crafted image of Loki’s body beneath those tight shorts.

“I’m good,” you said, forcing a nonchalant tone into your voice as you adjusted your stance.

Loki chuckled darkly, a sound that sent a chill up your spine. “Are you sure?” His eyes tracked your every movement, and his words lingered in the air like a challenge. “It seems like you could use some assistance. Maybe a little guidance... in the right position?”

Your breath faltered. He wasn’t even pretending anymore, was he? Every word felt like it was wrapped in double meaning, and you weren’t sure how much longer you could endure it. His gaze followed you as you moved to the squat rack, watching you carefully. When you tried to start your set, Loki’s voice floated over again, his tone almost too smooth.

“Don’t strain yourself now,” Loki called with an exaggerated innocence, leaning against the nearby rack. “Let me help you out. I’m quite good at supporting... heavy loads.” His eyes twinkled with that dangerously charming glint, knowing full well how far his words were pushing the line.

His words carried more weight than just an offer of assistance. His lips curled further, clearly aware of what his proximity was doing to you. You swallowed hard, trying to regain some semblance of control, but it was slipping through your fingers, one teasing glance at a time.

You tried to clear your throat, attempting to steady your breath, but all you could think about was the way his body moved—each thrust, each groan, each deliberate motion that seemed aimed directly at you. The air was thick with tension, thick with him, and you could feel it clouding your thoughts like a drug.

“I think I’ve got it covered,” you talked through your teeth, trying to ignore the warmth pooling low in your belly as you adjusted your grip on the barbell.

Loki’s smirk only grew, his breath heavier now, louder as he moved to prepare his next sets. "Mh, I’m sure you do. But I’ll be here if you need to drop anything. I’m quite capable of catching things... especially when they fall out of control."

You could feel the tension building in your body, a mix of frustration and arousal swirling together. Your focus was shot, lost somewhere between your workout and Loki’s innuendos. Those seductive sounds that followed each thrust, seemed to be pulsing through your eardrums, practically vibrating in your bones.

"I said I’m fine," you finally snapped, irritated with both yourself and him. “I don’t need your help.”

The sensation of Loki’s eyes on you, the sound of his breath, the feel of his proximity—it was all too much. You couldn’t take it anymore. Your heart was racing, and it wasn’t from the workout. It was from him, from the teasing, from the way he seemed to find endless amusement in rattling your composure. It felt like he was intentionally trying to push you to the edge. You grabbed your towel from the bench, a sharp motion born from irritation, and stormed off to the treadmill, needing a change of pace. The last thing you wanted was to be anywhere near him at that moment. You couldn’t let him get to you—not anymore. Not like this.

Your focus was slipping, the heat of your skin betraying the resolve you were desperately trying to hold onto. You couldn’t afford the distraction. The only thing that could save you now was a good run, something that would let your muscles burn, let your thoughts bleed into the rhythm of your steps. Something that would drown out the chaotic swirl of fantasies and irritation that he had stirred up in your mind.

You punched in the settings on the treadmill, fingers moving with precision, though your mind was nowhere near as composed. The moment you hit "start," the belt began to move, and the familiar, repetitive thud of your feet against the treadmill’s surface became your anchor. You jammed your headphones back in, cranking up the volume, hoping the music would drown out the thoughts that were threatening to break through your focus. Music usually worked. But right now? It wasn’t enough. Not with him still in the background, somewhere in the periphery of your mind. You kept one muff slightly over one ear, just in case he decided to come prowl on you again.

You could feel it again, though. His gaze. It was like a weight pressing against your back, making your skin feel tight. You could almost feel him watching, studying you, though you refused to look. Not now. You kept your eyes fixed straight ahead, blocking out everything but the rhythm of your feet, the steady burn in your legs. Your mind was still racing, but you forced yourself to settle into the movement. You weren’t going to let him distract you anymore.

The sound of his low chuckle reached you from across the room, cutting through your thoughts like a hot knife. Your pulse skipped. You clenched your jaw, trying to ignore the sensation of him still lingering, even from afar. It wasn’t enough. His presence had a way of bleeding into everything you did. But then—another sound. A soft giggle, the clear laugh of a woman, cut through the air, and you froze mid-step, your feet stilling for just a fraction of a second.

You glanced to the side, and there he was. Standing at the weight bench, effortlessly chatting with someone—another woman. She was hanging on his every word, eyes sparkling with amusement as she laughed at something Loki had said. The sight of it hit you like a slap, sharp and immediate. Your gut twisted. Of course, he’d move on to someone else. Of course, he’d find someone new to charm, to entertain. Like it was nothing.

Your jaw tightened as your mind churned, irritation bubbling up once again. The way he was smiling at her, the way she was laughing, so easily caught up in whatever he was saying—it was like a reminder of how little you actually mattered to him. It was all a game to him. And you? You were just another piece on the board.

You turned back to the treadmill, determined to ignore him. You increased the speed, pushing your legs harder, faster, ignoring the strain in your muscles as they burned. You would focus on the run. You would make yourself focus on the run. The burn in your thighs, the tightness in your calves—it would ground you, it would help you forget about Loki.

But, of course, the sound of his voice was already creeping up beside you.

You felt the treadmill shift slightly, the subtle change in the rhythm of his footsteps as he jogged up next to you. You tried to block him out. You kept your gaze forward, staring at the wall ahead, trying not to even acknowledge that he was there. But the steady thud of his feet, the near-perfect, effortless pace with which he kept up, began to fill your ears, and before you knew it, his voice was slipping into your consciousness like the softest whisper.

“Trying to outrun me now, darling?” Loki’s voice was a silky purr, the words slow and deliberate, dripping with a teasing, almost predatory quality. "I do hope you're not tiring so easily. I’d hate to think you can’t keep up.”

You clenched your jaw. His proximity only made the effort to keep running feel harder, more impossible. But you weren’t about to let him win.

You shot a glance at him, your breath sharp. Loki was jogging beside you, his form so relaxed, so effortless. He barely seemed to be trying, while you were fighting every inch of the treadmill. His smile curled up at the edges, his eyes dark with mischief as he matched your pace.

“Oh, what’s wrong? Not used to the pressure?” he teased again, his voice dropping to an almost intimate whisper. “I thought you liked a challenge. Or is that just for when I’m the one in control?”

His words sliced through your focus, making your breath hitch. You ignored him, pushing yourself harder, willing your body to keep up.

But of course, Loki wasn’t done.

“You know," he continued smoothly, his pace not even breaking as he leaned in closer, his voice dangerously seductive, "I could make this a lot easier for you. If you let me guide you… show you how to keep the rhythm steady, how to control your breathing." His words dripped with innuendo, his every syllable teasing a deeper, more tantalizing meaning.

“Don’t you have someone else to bother?” you snapped, hoping your voice didn’t shake as much as you felt. You didn’t look at him as you turned the treadmill speed up again, pushing your legs to move faster. You had the advantage of effort now, your muscles burning as you tried to shake off his presence.

But he wasn’t done. Not by a long shot. Loki kept pace, not once showing any sign of struggle. His stride was effortless, like he was gliding through the air while you were forced to fight for every step. His voice, smooth as ever, slid through the air again, and you couldn’t help but feel his words wrap around you like a physical touch.

“I can’t help but wonder," Loki mused with a smirk, “are you running away from something?”

Your pulse spiked. The words hit their mark, pushing all the right buttons, pulling at your composure. You gritted your teeth and tried to ignore him, focusing on the speed, on the burn, on the rhythm. You couldn't let him derail you, not again.

“If running is all it takes to get you panting like that, darling, I can think of far more enjoyable ways to leave you breathless. Shall I show you?”

“Will you just shut up?”

You couldn’t help it. His words were a physical weight on your chest, like a pressurizing force. Your heart was racing—not from the run, but from him. You clenched your jaw, furious with yourself for letting him get under your skin like this.

Suddenly, your foot caught the edge of the treadmill, and in that instant, time seemed to freeze. You stumbled, your legs buckling beneath you, and without even a pause, Loki’s hand shot out, catching you by the waist. His grip was firm, secure, pulling you back into him effortlessly.

Everything stopped—except for the feel of his hand on your waist, his chest pressing against your back, the warmth of his breath on your neck. You could feel his heart beating against your spine, the tension between you two so thick it was almost tangible.

“Careful, now,” Loki’s voice purred, low and dangerous, as he leaned in, his lips grazing your ear with a softness that sent shivers down your spine. “Wouldn’t want you to fall… though, I’d gladly have you on your knees if that’s where you’re trying to end up.”

His breath lingered against your skin, hot and intoxicating, his words dripping with intention. It was as if time had slowed, every breath you took mingling with his, making the air thick with something more than just the scent of sweat and effort. Your heart was hammering in your chest, and for a split second, you forgot the pain in your legs, forgot the purpose of the run. All you could feel was the electric heat of his body just inches from yours, the weight of his words pulling you in like a magnetic force.

He didn’t just hold you steady. His fingertips danced on the small of your back, tracing little circles that made your skin tingle. The sensation was maddening—gentle, yet firm, teasing you without even trying. Each motion of his hand sent waves of shivers through you, and despite your attempts to hold it in, a soft, involuntary sigh escaped your lips.

You tried to focus, to pull away, but his grip only tightened slightly, keeping you close. Your thoughts were swirling, the line between annoyance and something far more dangerous blurring with every breath he took. It was all too much—his touch, his scent, the feel of his body against yours, and those little circles on your back that made you shiver and almost surrender to the sensation.

Finally, you yanked away, breaking free from his teasing hold. Your hand shot out, grabbing the towel from the bench, and in your rush to regain your space, you slapped it against his thigh with a little more force than you intended, your fingers brushing against his skin as the towel made contact. You didn’t mean for it to feel like that, but the heat in your cheeks was unmistakable.

“What I’d like is for you to fuck off, Loki,” you retaliated with a tight voice, though the words betrayed the truth—that it wasn’t the teasing that bothered you. It was him. All of him. The way he could unsettle you, make your pulse race in ways you weren’t ready for.

But even as you spun on your heel to storm away, you could hear him. His voice, smooth as velvet and laced with the sort of amusement that made your stomach tighten.

“Oh, I’m definitely getting ideas now,” Loki called out, a sly grin curling on his lips. “That slap of yours... so eager. You know where to find me if you decide you want to explore any of them.”

You couldn’t help it. Your breath hitched as you threw him a quick glance over your shoulder, eyes narrowed in mock annoyance, but the heated look in his gaze made it clear that this wasn’t over. You flipped him off, the motion sharp and a little more dramatic than you intended, but you couldn’t mask the rush of heat that surged through your body, making your skin feel too warm.

Your water bottle was a poor substitute for what you really needed, but you chugged it anyway, hoping to drown out the craving that had started to build in your chest. The cool liquid did nothing to cool the burn inside you, the heat of him still lingering in your senses.

You knew exactly what you wanted. But it wasn’t water. Not anymore. Not after that.

⠀

⠀

Want to read more of my works? Check out my masterlist !

taglist : @stilleobjection — @the-fandoms-onceler .

⠀⠀

dividers ©️ @cafekitsune .

angelremnants ©️ 2025. All rights reserved. Do not repost, reproduce, or distribute without explicit permission.

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PART ONE.⠀|⠀NEXT PART.

[noideabutsims]

Donut Co. Rugtastic Reset - Explosion of Oddity Edition P.1

(I was originally going to name this set "Racked with Randomness" instead of Explosion of Oddity, so any references in my cover photos mean these ones, just to be clear!!!!!!) Has 55 Swatches All english (sorry) All of our CC can be found by typing " Donut " into the search bar! Images in game -  You can find bonus images on our tumblr > HERE Most of my images have my reshade on - it changes the color minimally, so white may look a little off in photos, but in game it will look white/normal!! <3! You can size them up and down using the bracket keys. [ ] <- these ones.  I personally, use the tool mod to size my items up and down, and specifically with these if you are wanting them to be "perfectly sized" i would recommend you grab the tool mod by twistedmexi! If you would like to use it in build-buy mode, you'll need BBB! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Name: Donut Co. Rugtastic Reset - Explosion of Oddity Edition P.1 Buy Mode Description: Prepare for floors that detonate the ordinary! Kickstart your Rugtastic Reset with the Explosion of Oddity Edition, where the outlandish meets the adorable in a blast of color and design. Discover whimsical twists on familiar faces, astronauts chilling on vinyl space records, and retro throwbacks that ignite a wave of belly-aching nostalgia. With 55 eye-popping swatches, there's a rug-induced giggle for everyone. Get ready for a walk on the weird side... where the unexpected is always underfoot! After all, this is just the start of your Rugtastic Reset – stay tuned for even more delightfully strange designs to come! (Works best if you use the bracket keys "[" + "]" to size up and down, or my personal preference of the tool mod!) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ DOWNLOAD: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/102628896?pr=true Google Drive: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AwbjXYP5ByE4xQyoJLCwDaGX9IKPepVN/view?usp=sharing @alwaysfreecc

[elbiotipo]

it occurs to me that in space / sci-fi settings, ftl travel, "world of hats" worldbuilding, non-toxic alien biomes and universal translators are all (in part) tools to mitigate scale. so maybe an approach is just to reduce the scale of a setting? i feel everything could work okay restricted to one planet and its satellites

A single solar system does work for this, especially if you have collections of space habitats. The thing is that it's often our own solar system, and we already know all about it, so it gets boring. Unfortuantely Mars or Venus aren't that exciting, or rather, they are, but our own Solar System is too well known to us, we learn about it as kids after all, so there's not much room for new things here. They are also places very close to us, it's very likely we will see people on Mars and maybe more in our future. So it doesn't spark the excitement it could have.

One option is to make it a new star system, let's say the first expedition (or plural, expeditions) to get there and set up habitats, explore the life. You can get a lot of detail in a single star system, but for me the problem is that you eventually run out of weird worlds.

With an interstellar setting, you can indulge into worldbuilding on its most literal sense. You can create whole new planets and systems based on physical laws (or not), you can justify a lot of crazy things as space is so big that even the most unnusual things in a hard-science setting can be found somewhere. And you kinda want those planets with weird biomes and aliens. It's the same like setting up a novel in a very specific place and never going out of it, you can have a lot and lot of detail on it, but in my opinion at least, eventually you get bored of it. But if your character are going from place to place, that's more exciting for me. You want the good old strange new worlds, new life and new civilizations.

My setting Campoestela in fact started as a reaction to the current human-centric sci-fi settings (the one that most dissapointed me lately is Starfield but there are others) with only humans or only three or five other aliens. I wanted to go back to the space opera kind of feeling of going into a space bar and finding lots of different aliens. This is more fantasy at this point in regards to modern astrobiology, but much like fantasy, I'm willing to take the premises of it (easy FTL travel, lots of space civilizations) and see where they get me. It does get you a bit wild with the scale, yes, but that's part of the fun. Writing about a single planet, as fun as it can be (I've heard there's been a very successful movie series about it lately) just makes me feel constrained.

For more realistic settings, I'm sticking to what we know about our own Solar System, because yes, realistic space exploration in our current times is also exciting. I'm doing that in my Biopunks setting (set in the 22th century) and in a retro Cold War setting with the twist that Mars and Venus are actually full of life. But you get me, I want my space aliens, I want my strange new worlds. So I don't mind expanding the setting and instead trying to play with those tools.

[jetspikepub]

PS2 Game OST

My fellow retro gamers told me about videogame music website where I found Bebop music files 🤯 Vgmstream tools helped to convert the audio.

The sound quality is waaay better than samples I recorded before, so please enjoy.

[bhqextras]

Meeting Starters

Send “Meeting + a symbol” for a starter of our muses meeting at this location, possibly for the first time! (all specific locations are only suggestions!)

Our muses meet out to eat

🥐 at a bakery (ex. Bake My Day in Queens; Toastery in Manhattan) ☕️ at a cafe (ex. Higher Grounds, Manhattan; The Snug Mug, Staten Island) 🐈 at a cat cafe (ex. Kitty and Brew in Brooklyn) 🍵- for tea (ex. Rise & Grind in the Bronx) 🍳 for brunch (ex. Bluebirds in Manhattan) 🍝 at a fancy restaurant (ex. Bella Vita in Staten Island) 🥤 at a cheap diner (ex. Diner in the Bronx) 🍨 at the ice cream parlor (ex. Freshly Churned in Staten Island)  🎤 at a singing restaurant (ex. Stardust in Manhattan) 🧃 at a smoothie shop (ex. Main Squeeze in Queens) 🥗 at a vegan restaurant (ex. Wild Living in Manhattan)

Our muses meet shopping

🛍️ at the mall (ex. Bay Plaza Mall in the Bronx) 👖 at the market (ex. Brooklyn Flea Market, Queens Night Market) 👗 at the thrift store (ex. Trove Thrift in Brooklyn) 📚 at a book store (ex. Cover to Cover in Queens, Brownstone Books; Brooklyn) 🌸 at the florist (ex. Dahlia and Daffodils in Staten Island) 🎵 at the record shop (ex. Grooves in Staten Island) 🗝️at the antique store (ex. Antiques in Queens)

Out muses meet at the club

🕺 at a club playing throwback music (ex. Retro Night Club in the Bronx) 💃🏻 at a club playing latin music (ex. Havana Night Club in Queens) ✨ at a club playing modern music (ex. Club 51 in Manhattan) 🏳️‍🌈 at a LGBTQ+ club (ex. Glow, Brooklyn; Sugar & Spice, Queens, Pegasus, Manhattan) 🤠 at a club with a mechanical bull (ex. Cowbells in the Bronx) 👠 at a strip club (ex. Emeralds in Manhattan) 🎷at a jazz club (ex. The Blue Note in Queens)

Our muses meet at a bar

🍸 ordering drinks (ex. Becky’s Martini Bar in Manhattan) 📝 on trivia night (ex. Corner Pub in Brooklyn) 🍺 sitting at the bar (ex. Joe’s Tavern in Queens) 🎱 playing a bar game (ex. Puzzles in Manhattan) 🍹on karaoke night (ex. Songbirds and Sangrias in Staten Island) 🌆 viewing the skyline (ex. Zenith in Manhattan) 👀exchanging glances (ex. The She Shed in the Bronx) 🍽 sharing an appetizer (ex. The Tool Shed in Staten Island)

Our muses meet around the city

✈️ at the airport (ex. JFK in Queens) 🎟️ at an amusement park (ex. Coney Island in Brooklyn) 🐠 at the aquarium (ex. New York Aquarium in Brooklyn) 💳 at the library (ex. New York Public Library) 🗿 at a museum (ex. Guggenheim, Met, MoMa, New York Historical Society) 🏞️ at the park (ex. Central Park, Prospect Park in Brooklyn, Socrates Park in Queens) 🎭 at a theatrical production (ex. the Theater District in Manhattan) 🚋 at the train station (ex. Grand Central Station in Manhattan) 🚕 at Times Square 🌆 on a walking path (ex. The High Line in Manhattan, Brooklyn Heights Promenade) 🏟️ at Yankee Stadium 🦦 at the zoo (ex. Bronx Zoo)

Our muses meet doing an activity

🏋️‍♀️ at the gym (ex. Core Fitness in Staten Island) 🥊 at the boxing gym (ex. Champion Boxing in the Bronx) 🍿 at the movie theater (ex. Dollar Theater in the Bronx) 📽️ at an outdoor projected movie (ex. Technicolor Theater in Queens) 🎸 at a concert (ex. The Echochamber in Brooklyn; Riot House in the Bronx) 🤣 at a comedy show (ex. Punchline in the Bronx) ⛸️ at a skating rink (ex. Roller City in Queens) 🎳 at a bowling alley (ex. Strike! in Staten Island) 🖌️ at the tattoo parlor (ex. Electric Ink in Brooklyn) 🧰 at the mechanic (ex. One Stop Auto Repair in Queens) 🖼️ at an art show (ex. Haze Gallery, The Underground, or Gilded in Brooklyn) 🎨 doing arts and craft (ex. Glazed Finish in Brooklyn) ⛳️ playing mini golf (ex. Holidaytown in Manhattan)

[alders-simblr]

36 Alder Lane (Willow Creek - 001) Lite

First house in my project for my save. I'm doing two versions, the lite version and the loaded version. More on that later. This is the lite version and you can find it on the gallery under my username alderwitch - make sure you have Custom Content checked.

Lite version will have everything needed to start playing but I haven't gone in and cluttered and tweaked the build to make it looked lived in. Loaded versions are going to have a much longer list of custom content, lots more clutter and less empty spaces available to make it your own and a higher price point typically in Simoleans to purchase.

This is a house designed with the idea of a big family in mind. It has a large chef's kitchen, laundry room and both formal living room and cozy den along with a half bath. Upstairs are three rooms for the kids, along with a dedicated bath while the master suite and office take up the third floor. Though the yard is small, it boasts outdoor grill space, a pool and a small grass area perfect for young kids.

I'm personally using it as one of the lots to fast track my founder families that I'm building my save with.

-> Built with bb.moveobjects and TOOL.

Packs Used: Growing Together, HSY, Eco Lifestyle, Seasons, Parenthood, Dineout, Spa Day, Bust the Dust, Laundry Day

CC Used: Madame Ria: Back To Basics, Unremarkable Stairs LeafMotif: Painted Mailboxes, Eloise Syboulette: Aquarium, Laundry, Millennial Kitchen, Playa Amoebae: Eco Lifestyle Woods in Image Spectra Walls that Make Sense: Dynasty, Fundamentals, Lights, Opulence Pierisim: Oak House pt 4, MCM 5, MCM 3, MCM 2, Auntie Vera, Teenie Weenie Charly Pancakes: Maple S, SMOL Tuds: Shkr, Beam, Crib, Cross, Vime Sixam: Dreamy Outdoor, Living Room for Family Harrie: Octave 2, Octave 4, Kwatei 1, Coastal Collection 1, Coastal Collection 2 Harlix: Orjanic, Harluxe, Jardane, Felixandre: Chateau Pt 1, Shop the Look Pt 1, Shop the Look Pt 2 Ravasheen: Utility Set, Counter Wastebin, Paper Towel, Curfew Clock, Recipe Unlock Book, Cupcake Maker, Sip Sip Bar Cart, Toy Kitchen, Toy Tub, Built Ins Peacemaker: Hickory Floorboards, Small & Rustic Wooden Planks, Classic Walls (all), Classic Add Ons, Retro Wallpaper, Colour Me Rugs, Moroccan Tiles, Cats and Dogs Siding, Hampton's Hideaway, Hampton's Built Ins, Oasis Chic, Nox Dining, Caine Living, Vara Office, Elsie Bedroom, Bradford Seating, Hudson Bathroom Mod: It includes the functional medicine cabinet for SimRealist's Private Practice Mod in the half bath. If you aren't using that mod, feel free to ignore downloading it and replace it with whatever non functional one that you like.

[ghxstgutzz]

Welcome to Curry Corner!

These old Spice District apartments have been converted into a few shops owned by different sims. On the bottom floor we have Sweet Sensations; a cozy little bakery with an espresso bar, and Harps; a family-owned convenience store. The second floor is home to a quirky craft supply called Superliminal, and Lance Laundry. Recollection is a thrift store specializing in retro clothing, movies, and music, found on the top floor. Lot complete with outdoor seating and bicycle parking.

This multi-use retail lot was built on Waterside Warble, replacing the karaoke bar. Tray files available for free on my Patreon page! Download & detail shots below the cut~ 

Exterior Details

Interior Details

FREE DOWNLOAD x

TOOL was used (make sure you have bb.moveobjecsts on when placing). The shops are fully stocked, and there's a version available with Llamazon cards in the shop (so your sim can 'special order' items through the shops).

[gertlushgaming]

Zool Redimensioned Review (PlayStation 4)

Our Zool Redimensioned Review (PlayStation 4) reintroduces the world to the Ninja of the Nth Dimension as he is back! Explore vibrant retro landscapes, discover hidden secrets, and take down menacing bosses in a modern reimagining of the classic action platforming adventure Zool.

Zool Redimensioned Review (PlayStation 4) Pros:

- Awesome graphics. -  296.6MB download size. - 25 trophies. - Platformer gameplay. - Display settings - zoom type. (Redimensioned/midpoint/wide 1992) and filter. - Can rebind controls. - Actions - jump, shoot, and slide/spin attack. - All new local multiplayer modes. - Assist settings - turbo fire, invincibility, low health, and infinite jumps. - Contrast setting. (standard/extra/original) - Original Zool has 3 difficulties - Easy, normal, and hard, with a  0 - 5 continues option. - Two game modes - Redimensioned and Ultimate Ninja modes. - Classic 90s-ass-sounding soundtrack. - Tutorial for the controls. - Redimensioned is the modernized version with a double jump and no need for Collectibles. - Ultimate Ninja mode is harder and the original version with no double jump and Collectibles are needed. - Collectibles to be found. - Levels are not always straightforward so you need and want to explore the path. - 90s atmosphere. - End of a level breakdown showing deaths, time taken, any medals earned, and Collectibles. - Finish a level by collecting the gold coin. - Level themes are brilliant from sweets to music. - Big boss battles showing the boss health bar. - Time and score are shown on the screen. - Levels are big enough to explore and find secrets. - Redimensioned has 7 areas with 4 levels in each - Sweet, Music, Fruit, Tool, Toy, Fair, and Sand. - Unlock level select once you finish a game mode and see your best time and Collectibles. - Checkpoints. - Tight controls. - Party mode has four game modes - Zools gold (collect the most items), Rool of Zool (hold the crown the longest) Balls Brawl (into ball into targets), and shuffle. - Beastipedia has all the details and images of enemies and characters. Zool Redimensioned Review (PlayStation 4) Cons: - Doesn't explain the difference between Redimensioned and Ultimate Ninja modes. - No Platinum trophy. - Doesn't have online multiplayer. - Hard to see what are enemies and what are items. - Invincibility has you constantly flashing making it hard to see yourself and use. - Cheats/assists disable trophies. Related Post: Shelter 3 Review (Steam) Zool Redimensioned: Official website. Developer: Sumo Digital Publisher: Secret Mode Store Links - PlayStation Read the full article

[anitosoul]

tripreport.019: Fluidity

liquid 💧

Key Inspirations

MoMA Ready’s Set at Nowadays Nonstop (DJ set)

Snail Mail – Valentine (Music album)

Floating through music (activity)

Don Miguel Ruiz – The Four Agreements (Book)

Talking (Activity)

Y2K Retro Bubble Look (Aesthetic)

Dissociating (Acitivity)

MoMA PS1 Greater New York (Art exhibit)

Floating Points (Music artist)

Mobb Deep (Music artist)

Mixing in the woods (Activity)

The Pattern (App)

Coco & Clair Clair` (Music artist)

St. Vitus (Venue)

Opening DJ sets (Activity)

Forgiveness (Activity)

Coming home (Activity)

Fluidity Tracklist A-Side

Coco & Clair Clair – Pretty

DJ Swisha, Jessy Lanza – All the Time

piri – Soft Spot

Turnstile, Mall Grab – Yes I Need My Generator (Mall Grab Remix)

DJ Sabrina the Teenage DJ – Down With Love

Special Request – Amnesia

The Manuel Azevedo Quartet – Futebol de Bar

Octo Octa, DJ Q – It’s You (Octo Octa’s Slammin’ With U Mix)

DJ Q – Optimum Thinking

Nikki Nair – Power Tool

Planet 1999, A.G. Cook, Baseck – Party (A.G. Cook & Baseck Remix)

FJAAK – Identity

Jamie xx – Idontknow

DJ Rashad – In Da Club Before Eleven O’Clock

Mobb Deep, DJ Zinc – Shook Ones (Remix)

Skrillex, Noisia, josh pan, Dylan Brady – Supersonic (My Existence)

MoMA Ready, Sasha, Sean Paul – I’m Still In Love (Rework)

Samurai Breaks – Pump Up the Volume

Overmono – So U Kno

Alec Empire – Let the Sun Shine

Fluidity Tracklist B-Side

MoMA Ready, Mina Thomas, Yunie Mojica – Simple As A Song

Oakwite – Whisper

Wet, Blood Orange – Bound

Snail Mail – Forever (Sailing)

LIKE ANIMALS – Function

Floating Points, Mayfield Depot – Bias (Mayfield Depot Mix)

Coco Bryce – Lovin U

LONER – New to Me

Lenzman, Artificial Intelligence – Drowning

nCamargo – Side By Side

The Caracal Project – Expresso

FD – Ice Cream

Alicia Keys, Lenzman – Unthinkable (Lenzman Remix)

James Blake, Submorphics – Modern Soul (Submorphics Remix)

Drake, Mutt – Best I Ever Had (Mutt Bootleg)

PinkPantheress – Break It Off

Adam F – Circles

Austra, Avalon Emerson – Anywayz (Avalon Emerson’s 14th Life Version)

November’s mix is somewhat of a combination between September and October. Each of those months was one end of an extreme for me: In September I used music as an internal tool, a guiding force to process my feelings, and in October I used music as an external driver, a vehicle to express myself to others and communicate with the world around me. This month, the intensity finally seemed to settle, but it was met with a reckoning of the self-importance I was giving to myself and what I was doing. (I also recognize the irony of talking about this in a personal blog about my life experiences.) 

The themes of this month’s mix were inspired heavily by the MoMA Ready liquid DnB set I mentioned in October. At that point my friends had gone home so I was there by myself, and I had nothing else to do except reflect on my life. I thought about all of it: my relationship to music, the ways I’ve grown since moving to NYC, the effects of the pandemic, the dynamics of my personal relationships, my professional trajectory, dealing with loss. I was cradled by the music, finally processing all of the change. 

Later that month, I had some close friends stay with me. This was a sobering experience, as I realized that for as much processing I was doing on the dance floor, I had barely processed anything using language. At the same time, I realized how much I was making everything about myself and forcing situations to be the way I had built them up in my mind. I imposed my expectations and problems without regard for those around me, hurting people in the process. I fell back into patterns of depression and anxiety and guilt, blaming myself for it all.

I was still using music as a motivator, and I had some additional chances to perform live. We hosted another PQ party that coincided with some friends being in town. It was a great experience getting to perform for them for the first time, and just as importantly I got the experience of having a set that didn’t go as I planned. I made some pretty big mistakes and felt that the energy was off, but it was a learning opportunity. Getting feedback from the friends who were there was invaluable. I learned that I needed to ease into some of the less accessible sounds and build up to them, familiarizing the audience. A few days later Four Tet and Floating Points did a surprise set at Nowadays and I spontaneously decided to go–I got to do even more “field research,” learning how to get a crowd warmed up for higher intensity tracks. They played “Supersonic (My Existence),” a Skrillex/Noisia/Dylan Brady song which I honestly wasn’t expecting given Four Tet and Floating Points’ more low-key sounds. I could tangibly feel the importance of narrative-building and energy flow in their set. 

That week, a friend of mine recommended me for an event with Girl Gang NYC, providing more experience playing live. It was challenging but exciting given I had no idea what the vibe of the crowd was going to be, but I took what I learned from the PQ party and incorporated it into my set. I played some hits, some throwbacks, and blended them into some of the drum and bass tracks later on–people loved it!

I knew I was going home later that month for Thanksgiving, so I decided to reach out to St. Vitus, the main dance club in my hometown of Tulsa, about doing a set. I was given the opportunity to perform and I was extremely grateful; it was my first club set and it happened so quickly after I started getting into DJing. I had to give it my all, so I crafted my set around a lot of the music I played in October as well as the tracks I was discovering throughout November. 

I was so nervous at the beginning; I had an opening set on Thanksgiving eve, so it was pretty empty at first. I was worried that only a few people would show up. About half an hour in, some of my friends arrived and others slowly started trickling in. About an hour into the set, a big wave of people suddenly showed up, a lot of them classmates from high school who I didn’t even know were planning on coming. It got pretty packed and I started transitioning into what I knew best: pumping it up to 150+ bpm and blasting some jungle and DnB. The crowd was vibing so hard, I couldn’t believe it. I was feeding off their energy, dropping into deeper and deeper cuts. I played “Supersonic (My Existence)” and the crowd went ballistic just like they did at Four Tet. It was amazing.

Despite the external validation and momentum I was gaining, I was still struggling a lot mentally and interpersonally. At home I was wallowing, ruminating on regret. I spent most of my time in bed, and I got sick shortly after Thanksgiving which didn’t help. One of the main reasons I wanted to go home was to go out to the cabin and spend some extended time there to recharge, but getting sick was another unexpected curveball that I had to accept. 

It wasn’t until someone important to me gave me the book The Four Agreements that I started to reframe my thinking. The weekend after Thanksgiving I was finally able to go back out to the cabin. It was a nice, sunny day. I set up a hammock and read it as the sun set. It was the perfect setting for taking in the book’s philosophy. For those who don’t know, The Four Agreements is a self-help-y book written by a Mexican physician who became overwhelmed with the stressors of modern life and turned towards teachings from his parents who are indigenous healers. I appreciated that the book isn’t fully prescriptive, but presented as tenets of ancient knowledge; it resonated with me much more deeply. The Four Agreements are:

Be Impeccable with your word.

Don’t take anything personally.

Don’t make assumptions.

Always do your best.

I realized how much I was struggling, especially with the second and third agreements. Since reading the book (and going to regular therapy), it’s been a lot easier for me to reframe my thoughts and accept things the way they are. 

That night out at the cabin, I set up my controller and mixed on the front porch. It was a nice night; not too cold with a slight drizzle. We had Christmas lights up which provided a soft glow. I played my own emo liquid DnB set, mixing in indie tracks like new Snail Mail and Wet with the liquid DnB I started the month off with. I was accepting life for what it is, and accepting the change, loss, and differences in expectations that come with it. It was healing; the book, the music, the cabin, the outdoors, it was all medicine; there was a fluidity to it all that provided a respite from the erratic roller coaster energy that seemed to dictate the entirety of 2021 up until that point. That flow, the ease of it all, was exactly what I had been seeking.

[classicmobilebartenders]

Mobile Bartending Services in West Hollywood: The Perfect Touch for Your Event

West Hollywood, known for its trendy vibe, vibrant nightlife, and star-studded atmosphere, is the ideal place to host unforgettable events. Whether you're throwing an upscale party in a chic loft, a rooftop celebration with stunning city views, or an intimate gathering at a private residence, one element can take your event from good to extraordinary: a premium bar experience. This is where mobile bartending services in West Hollywood come in, providing everything you need to serve your guests in style, while ensuring convenience and top-tier service.

Mobile Bartending Services in West Hollywood?

Mobile bartending services bring professional bartenders, equipment, and beverages directly to your event location, eliminating the need for a traditional bar setup. These services provide everything you need to serve drinks, from cocktail mixers and garnishes to glassware and bartending tools. Professional bartenders not only mix cocktails and pour drinks, but they also interact with guests and ensure that everyone has a fantastic time.

Whether you're hosting a private celebration or a corporate event in one of West Hollywood’s fashionable venues, mobile bartending services provide a flexible and high-quality solution that caters to your event’s specific needs. The beauty of these services lies in the ability to create a fully customized drink experience without any of the logistics or hassle associated with setting up a bar yourself.

Mobile Bartending Services in West Hollywood

A Touch of Glamour and Style

West Hollywood is synonymous with glamour, and hiring a mobile bartending service adds that extra flair to your event. Whether you're hosting an upscale soiree or a laid-back celebration, a mobile bartender can elevate the experience with expertly crafted cocktails, elegant glassware, and impeccable service. With mixologists on hand, your guests can enjoy handcrafted drinks that match the stylish, chic ambiance of West Hollywood’s trendsetting atmosphere.

From classic cocktails to innovative signature drinks tailored to your event, a mobile bartender helps set the tone for your gathering, adding an air of sophistication and professionalism that matches the vibe of the city.

Tailored Drink Menus for Every Occasion

One of the standout features of mobile bartending services is the ability to customize the drink menu to suit the specific needs of your event. If you're hosting a themed party in West Hollywood, your mobile bartenders can create cocktails that fit the theme, whether it's a retro-inspired event, a high-fashion gathering, or a tropical poolside soirée.

Mobile bartending services in West Hollywood often work with clients to develop unique and signature cocktails that enhance the event's atmosphere and provide a personalized experience for guests. Whether it’s a modern twist on a classic drink or a completely new creation, your bartender can craft a drink list that perfectly complements your vision.

Convenience and Effortless Setup

Planning an event in West Hollywood can be stressful, but a mobile bartending service makes the beverage portion of your event effortless. The bartenders arrive at your venue with everything they need—equipment, alcohol, mixers, and glassware. There's no need to worry about sourcing or transporting the necessary supplies, as everything is taken care of for you.

The mobile bartenders also handle the setup and breakdown of the bar area, so you don’t need to spend time managing logistics. Whether your venue is in the heart of West Hollywood or tucked away in a private location, the mobile setup allows you to have a fully functional bar that fits seamlessly with your event, without the need for permanent infrastructure.

Professional Service for Smooth Execution

West Hollywood’s dynamic crowd expects high-level service, and mobile bartending services are designed to deliver exactly that. Professional bartenders are skilled in not only mixing drinks but also providing excellent customer service. Whether you have a small group of guests or a large crowd, mobile bartenders ensure smooth execution of drink orders, ensuring everyone is served in a timely manner.

Moreover, bartenders are trained in crowd management and customer interaction, making sure the bar remains organized and guests are treated with care. This professionalism helps maintain the flow of your event, allowing you to focus on entertaining and enjoying the celebration.

Cost-Effective Solution for High-End Events

While West Hollywood is known for its luxury, mobile bartending services can be an affordable option, especially when compared to hosting a full bar with additional staff. Many services offer all-inclusive packages that cover alcohol, mixers, glassware, and bartenders, helping you avoid the need for purchasing large quantities of alcohol or renting expensive equipment. The cost efficiency of mobile bartending makes it a smart choice for those who want high-end service without the hefty price tag.

Stress-Free Cleanup

Once the drinks are flowing and the party is in full swing, the last thing you want to deal with is the cleanup. With mobile bartending services, the bartenders handle everything from setting up the bar to cleaning up afterward. They’ll wash glassware, pack up their equipment, and leave your venue looking just as it did before the event. This means you can enjoy the end of your celebration without worrying about cleaning up the mess.

Hosting an event in West Hollywood is all about creating a memorable experience, and mobile bartending services are the perfect way to ensure that your guests are treated to the best drinks and service possible. From tailored drink menus to professional bartenders who handle every detail, these services take the stress out of planning your event’s bar and provide a luxurious touch that perfectly complements the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

So, whether you're hosting a stylish rooftop party, a chic gathering in a private home, or an exclusive corporate event, consider bringing mobile bartending services into the mix to enhance your event with seamless service, elegance, and style. Cheers to an unforgettable West Hollywood celebration!

[restaurantmatchbooks]

Custom Cigar Matches - Printed Beer Glasses in San Francisco

Custom-printed beer glasses

We provide a wide selection of custom-printed beer glasses with your company logo in San Francisco. We provide custom cigar matches in San Francisco.

San Francisco, a city known for its culinary prowess and exciting nightlife, is also a hotspot for businesses looking to add a distinct, customized touch to their offerings. Custom matchbooks and printed beer glasses are more than simply utilitarian products for local restaurants, pubs, and breweries; they're also effective branding tools that leave a lasting impact on customers.

Custom matchbooks are a nostalgic keepsake

Matchbooks have a timeless quality. They were formerly common at cafes and martini bars, but they've evolved into a retro-chic object that evokes nostalgia and brand familiarity. Restaurants and bars in San Francisco employ personalized matchbooks as inventive marketing tools. These tiny gifts, printed with logos, phrases, or artwork, serve as pocket-sized adverts for clients to take home. Whether they're used to light candles, start a conversation, or start a match collection, they keep your brand in mind long after the visitor leaves.

Matchbooks are also inexpensive, adaptable, and easily customized. They can be customized to reflect the look of a location, ranging from bright, vibrant patterns to simple logos. In San Francisco's competitive eating industry, touches like this can help your establishment stand out and provide unique customer experiences.

Custom Beer Glasses: Sip with Style

Beer glasses are more than simply containers; they're an extension of your drinking experience. San Francisco's breweries and bars are well-known for their craft beer culture, and custom-printed beer glasses enhance the experience. Patrons will feel a sense of identity and pride when they see your logo or a distinctive design on these glasses.

Custom beer glasses are also ideal for marketing events, limited-edition brews, and collaborations. A well-designed glass frequently becomes a collector's item, encouraging clients to bring one home as a souvenir and increasing your brand's awareness. Personalized beer glasses, such as pint glasses, tulip glasses, and steins, combine practicality and marketing appeal.

Why Customization Matters

In a city like San Francisco, where the hotel sector is competitive, standing out is critical. Custom matchbooks and beer glasses not only assist in strengthening your brand but also develop a connection with your clients. These minor nuances demonstrate that your company values the little things, resulting in a memorable and authentic experience.

Whether you're a fashionable cafe, personalized matchbooks and beer glasses are an excellent way to mix utility, style, and branding, ensuring that your business is remembered in the heart of San Francisco.

[selljewelryaustin]

Austin’s Best Jewelry Buyers: What Sets Us Apart

When it comes to selling your valuable jewelry, finding a trustworthy buyer who offers competitive prices and exceptional service is essential. At Austin Coins Jewelry, we pride ourselves on being Austin’s best jewelry buyers, providing a seamless and rewarding experience for our customers. Whether you’re looking to sell gold jewelry, diamonds, estate pieces, or rare coins, we stand out for all the right reasons. Here’s what sets us apart.

1. Transparent and Honest Appraisals

We believe in complete transparency during the appraisal process. Our experienced professionals carefully evaluate your jewelry based on:

Gold and Metal Purity: Using state-of-the-art tools, we assess the purity of your gold, silver, or platinum.

Gemstone Quality: For diamonds and other gemstones, we consider the 4Cs—cut, clarity, carat weight, and color.

Design and Craftsmanship: Unique designs and renowned craftsmanship add significant value.

Market Trends: We stay updated on market conditions to ensure you receive the best possible price.

Our appraisers explain every detail, so you understand how we determine the value of your items. No hidden fees, no surprises—just fair and honest assessments.

2. Competitive Offers

As Austin’s leading jewelry buyers, we’re committed to offering the highest possible prices for your valuables. Our extensive network of buyers and collectors allows us to make competitive offers that reflect the true value of your pieces. Whether you’re selling gold jewelry in Austin or antique estate jewelry, you can trust us to provide the best deal.

3. Expertise in Estate Jewelry

Estate jewelry often carries both sentimental and monetary value. Our team specializes in evaluating and purchasing estate pieces, including:

Antique Jewelry: Timeless pieces from the Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian eras.

Vintage Jewelry: Unique designs from Art Deco, Retro, and other historic periods.

Heirloom Pieces: Sentimental treasures passed down through generations.

We understand the rarity and craftsmanship of these items, ensuring you receive an offer that reflects their true worth.

4. A Convenient and Private Selling Experience

Selling your jewelry should be a stress-free process. That’s why we’ve designed a customer-focused experience that prioritizes your comfort and privacy:

Appointment-Only Service: Enjoy undivided attention during a one-on-one consultation.

Secure Evaluations: Your items are handled with care and returned promptly after evaluation.

Immediate Payment: Once you accept our offer, you’ll receive payment on the spot.

Located conveniently in Austin, our office provides a welcoming environment for all your selling needs.

5. Trusted Reputation in Austin

With years of experience and countless satisfied customers, we’ve built a reputation as Austin’s most trusted jewelry buyers. Here’s why our clients keep coming back:

Positive Reviews: Our stellar customer reviews speak volumes about our commitment to excellence.

Licensed and Certified: We adhere to all industry standards and regulations.

Community Focus: As a locally owned business, we take pride in serving the Austin community with integrity.

6. We Buy More Than Just Jewelry

While we’re known for buying gold and estate jewelry, our expertise extends to a wide range of valuables, including:

Diamonds: Loose or set in jewelry.

Rare Coins: Gold, silver, and collectible coins.

Watches: Luxury timepieces from top brands.

Precious Metals: Gold and silver bars or bullion.

Whatever you’re selling, we’re here to offer fair prices and a hassle-free experience.

7. Why Sell Your Jewelry Now?

If you’re considering selling your jewelry, there’s no better time than now. Here’s why:

High Gold Prices: Take advantage of rising gold prices to maximize your returns.

Declutter and Simplify: Turn unused jewelry into cash while freeing up space.

Immediate Financial Needs: Selling your valuables can provide quick funds for unexpected expenses.

Final Thoughts

At Austin Coins Jewelry, we’re dedicated to making the process of selling jewelry in Austin as smooth and rewarding as possible. From transparent appraisals to competitive offers and exceptional customer service, we go above and beyond to meet your needs.

If you’re ready to sell gold jewelry, estate pieces, or other valuables in Austin, contact us today to schedule your appointment. Discover why we’re Austin’s best jewelry buyers and experience the difference for yourself.

[noideabutsims]

Donut Co. Rugtastic Reset - Explosion of Oddity Edition P.2 (I was originally going to name this set "Racked with Randomness" instead of Explosion of Oddity, so any references in my cover photos mean these ones, just to be clear!!!!!!) Has 59 Swatches All english (sorry) All of our CC can be found by typing " Donut " into the search bar! Images in game -  You can find bonus images on our tumblr > HERE Most of my images have my reshade on - it changes the color minimally, so white may look a little off in photos, but in game it will look white/normal!! <3! You can size them up and down using the bracket keys. [ ] <- these ones.  I personally, use the tool mod to size my items up and down, and specifically with these if you are wanting them to be "perfectly sized" i would recommend you grab the tool mod by twistedmexi! If you would like to use it in build-buy mode, you'll need BBB! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Name: Donut Co. Rugtastic Reset - Explosion of Oddity Edition P.2 Buy Mode Description: Get ready for another dose of delightful weirdness! The Explosion of Oddity continues with Part 2, where the whimsy gets amped up and the nostalgia reaches critical mass. Brace yourself for tentacle bananas (because why not?), even more retro throwbacks, and designs that spark a smile you didn't know you had. With 59 amazing new swatches, there's a floor-bound giggle waiting for everyone. Step into a world where the ordinary is extinct, and your inner child does a celebratory backflip. This is just the beginning of your rug-fueled transformation – stay tuned, because things are about to get even more wonderfully bizarre! (Works best if you use the bracket keys "[" + "]" to size up and down, or my personal preference of the tool mod!) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ DOWNLOAD: Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/posts/102631113?pr=true Google Drive: https://drive.google.com/file/d/14GUNxnmbSVRBewZaGnTnLrGSFObSQI8v/view?usp=sharing @alwaysfreecc

[radio-charlie]

Dream:

I am in China again, harbin this time. As expected it is very cold and I am sharing a small hotel room w relatives I squabble with. This harbin is weirdly americanised. It has a Hilton and its fanciest mall, more run down than what I saw irl, a whole bunch of empty lots on upper floors, had a big izakaya, an American bar and grill, a st Regis, and some kind of glitzy, warmly lit concert hall with West-leaning artists performing. One of the attendants looked out at me, mildly concerned and curious.

When I used the lift in this dream, it was either in this mall, or in my little hotel. I can't quite remember which. What I do remember is that there were Americans in there. They spoke unflatteringly of the variety of local eateries. And said they did like the izakaya in that mall. Overall, the way they spoke of Harbin sounded condescending and cold. One wondered what on earth they were doing there, if they didn't think anything but the izakaya was good enough for them.

They might have noticed me there, can't remember. One woman looked at me curiously.

I had another dream, day before, where I was hired to clean carpets in a hotel in China. It was some weird explicitly Christian hotel where there was a lit crucifix right on the facade of the building and people in the hotel talked about Jesus as they bantered.

In this dream I just had, I explored Harbin at night. I wandered with crowds of people past a tinsel decorated historical residential neighborhood, the houses a mix of East meets West, but not as noticeably Russian as what I saw irl. A sign designed in the fairytale forest style indicated that down by a lake there would be a Chinese bbq and some shops. I wandered over as the lake ice began disintegrating and had to be rescued. The bbq was quite overpriced. :P

The dream shifted to me helping an ex college-mate mop her boyfriend's apartment. It was implied that she was infatuated with another man and had begun to resent her boyfriend. As we mopped the large, multi-room apartment together, I discovered a cupboard that held beautiful Japanese antiques. One was a sort of canister that contained a tool, perhaps a whisk or other ritual object of some kind. It was covered with either inlay or ornate relief carvings. As I took it to hold I got a powerful feeling that I was NOT meant to be touching it and that I was not welcome 'here'. I hastily put it back in the cupboard. My friend commented that it was a shame, that her boyfriend didn't take better care of these relics, and that she guessed he just wasn't interested.

The dream switched to a top-down, pixel retro RPG where I was travelling through forests and plains surrounded by mountain ranges. I met a man who ordered me to cut his head off. Unsettlingly, the details surrounding how and why that happened are vague. Later on, I run into a sorceress who appears to have some kind of established relationship with me already. She has shining blonde hair, shining blue eyes - her perfection is depressingly Aryan and for some reason, shining all over in an almost cartoonish way. One of her cheeks is spattered with fresh blood and she is holding a... whisk? Staff? Small tool of some kind in one hand.

She points to the man's severed head in the bell jar behind me and exclaims in total astonishment. I explain that he asked me to do it.

I cannot remember the rest of the dream.

The man is bald, white, tall, heavyset but in a sturdy way.

[cozidreamsreimagine]

How to Create Designs That Work for Your Print-on-Demand Business

Running a print-on-demand business is both exciting and challenging. Whether you're selling on platforms like Redbubble or managing your own store, creating designs that resonate with your audience is the key to success. But how do you craft designs that not only look great but also sell? In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the process of creating designs that work for your print-on-demand business, with tips and tricks tailored to help you stand out in a competitive market. Let’s dive in!

Why Design Matters in Print-on-Demand

In the world of print-on-demand, your designs are your product. Unlike traditional retail, you’re not selling physical inventory—you’re selling ideas. Your customers are drawn to your creativity, so your designs need to:

- Capture attention: Bold, unique designs stand out in search results.

- Resonate with your audience: People buy designs that align with their personality, values, or interests.

- Fit the product: A design that looks great on a t-shirt might not work on a mug or phone case.

Understanding these principles is the first step to creating designs that work for your business.

Step 1: Know Your Niche

The most successful print-on-demand businesses are niche-focused. Instead of trying to appeal to everyone, target a specific audience.

- Research your audience: Who are they? What are their interests, hobbies, or values?

- Find trending niches: Use tools like Google Trends or Redbubble’s trending searches to discover what’s popular.

- Create for your passion: If you’re passionate about your niche, it will show in your designs.

For example, if your niche is cozy, minimalist designs, you could create products that appeal to people who love hygge-inspired aesthetics.

Step 2: Brainstorm Unique Design Ideas

Once you’ve identified your niche, it’s time to brainstorm ideas. Here’s how to get started:

- Use keyword research: Tools like Redbubble’s search bar or Pinterest Trends can help you find popular themes.

- Look for inspiration: Check out competitors, social media, or even nature for fresh ideas.

- Think seasonally: Holidays, seasons, and special events are great opportunities for themed designs.

Pro tip: Keep a notebook or digital folder for design ideas. Inspiration can strike at any time!

Step 3: Master the Tools of the Trade

You don’t need to be a professional graphic designer to create stunning designs. With the right tools, anyone can make high-quality artwork.

- Free design tools: Canva, GIMP, and Inkscape are great for beginners.

- Professional software: Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator offer advanced features for experienced designers.

- Mockup generators: Use tools like Placeit to see how your designs will look on products.

If you’re new to design, start simple. Minimalist designs with clean lines and bold typography are often bestsellers.

Step 4: Optimize Your Designs for Products

Not all designs work on every product. To maximize sales, tailor your designs to fit specific items.

- Consider placement: A design that looks great on a t-shirt might need adjustments for a mug or sticker.

- Use high-resolution files: Print-on-demand platforms require high-quality images to ensure sharp prints.

- Test your designs: Upload them to mockup tools to see how they look on different products.

For example, if you’re creating a design for a phone case, make sure the key elements aren’t cut off by the edges or camera hole.

Step 5: Write SEO-Friendly Titles and Tags

Even the best designs won’t sell if no one can find them. That’s where SEO comes in.

- Use relevant keywords: Include terms your audience is searching for, like “minimalist phone case” or “funny coffee mug.”

- Write descriptive titles: Instead of “Cool Design,” try “Retro Sunset Design for T-Shirts and Stickers.”

- Add detailed tags: Use a mix of broad and specific tags to improve your visibility.

For example, if your design is a cozy winter illustration, your tags might include “winter mug,” “cozy vibes,” and “holiday gift ideas.”

Step 6: Promote Your Designs

Creating great designs is only half the battle—you also need to market them.

- Leverage social media: Share your designs on Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok.

- Engage with your audience: Respond to comments and messages to build a loyal following.

- Collaborate with influencers: Partner with creators who align with your niche to reach a wider audience.

You can share behind-the-scenes content, like your design process or mockups, to connect with your audience on a personal level.

Step 7: Analyze and Improve

Finally, track your performance to see what’s working and what’s not.

- Check your analytics: Platforms like Redbubble provide insights into your sales and traffic.

- Experiment with new designs: Test different styles, themes, or niches to see what resonates.

- Listen to feedback: Pay attention to customer reviews and comments to improve your designs.

Remember, success in print-on-demand is a marathon, not a sprint. Keep learning and adapting as you go.

Final Thoughts

Creating designs that work for your print-on-demand business takes time, creativity, and strategy. By understanding your niche, mastering design tools, and optimizing your listings for SEO, you can build a successful shop that stands out from the crowd.

You have the power to turn your ideas into products that people love. So, what are you waiting for? Start creating today and watch your business grow!

Looking for unique, cozy designs that inspire and stand out? Visit my Redbubble shop to explore a collection of creative products made just for you!