#SQUARE CUT ENGAGEMENT RING

[cherry-hulu]

— Sex or chocolate?

Synopsis: Mingyu kissing your pain away.

Warnings: Stepbro!KMG x stepsis!reader, aphrodisiac chocolates (yk the ones that can be bought online), extremely sheltered and innocent reader, READER IS 20, age gap, oral (f receiving), dubious consent, reader is a virgin. don't like = don't read.

A/N: Fantasies are fantasies. Sexual activities must only occur between two consenting partners of legal age and of legal relation.

It all started with chocolates. You pulling all nighters to review during exam week wasn't anything new for your family, especially for Mingyu who would catch your butt sticking out of the fridge in the middle of the night as you look for something to snack on. The urge to slap your cheeks was strong especially because of how jiggly it was, but he couldn't risk your mom walking in on it by chance.

Having been raised by a mother who's been betrayed by many men, you grew up to be extremely sheltered not knowing a clue about anything sexual. The only sex education you knew were the ones taught in school. You knew nothing of sex positions, kinks, and even why the number 69 was so funny to teenage boys. Not that you weren't smart, you were top of your class, you knew everything about anything— except for sex.

Mingyu found out about this pretty quickly when he and his friends were cracking dirty jokes one after the other, boisterous laughs filling the room, and you just sat there with your head tilted sideways, eyebrows furrowed, confused on what was so funny for them to become like hyenas.

Your mom and his dad had been dating for a little over a year before reaching marriage. You had not met each other prior to their engagement, with Mingyu occupied with his work and you with college. Nonetheless, you knew of their relationship and didn't mind it.

Your mother trusted you with Mingyu, always having him babysit you whenever they were away and busy with their own selves. And you trusted Mingyu, he was your brother after all. Albeit not by blood, but still your family.

Mingyu was always so kind and considerate to you, always giving into your request and providing you with what you wanted. At first you feared that he would be cold to you because of the age gap between the two of you and also due to his stern demeanor, but the truth is that he was just a giant cuddly teady bear.

He would always buy you snacks for your exams, specifically chocolates because it was your favourite. You've have a thing for tasting new things, so the ones he would buy for you would be different each time. You chose a bar on a whim, excited for what flavours it brings.

They tasted good most of the time, but the one you chose this time was special.. and weird. It only had three squares of chocolate inside each one cut in half diagonally, and upon lifting the chocolate, an illustration of an.. eggplant.. was etched behind the chocolate.

All three boxes were different, one had an eggplant, the other had water..? And the last one had peaches. You gasp as you saw the illustration of the fruit. One of your most favorite fruits were peaches, you haven't had one in a while because your mom claims that 'you eat them too quickly' and that 'too much of it will not be good.'

Curious to what the flavor might be, you quickly unwrap it from it's plastic and at the whole lot of it's diagonal cut only leaving the other half in case anyone might want a try.

As you chew the chocolate, you tilt your head in confusion, it tasted just like any other chocolate and there was no hint of peaches on it. You were tempted to take the other half to give it a second try, but your alarm was already ringing letting you know your break was done.

Quickly putting the chocolate back in the fridge, you rush back upstairs to continue your session. Not even a few minutes back in to your lesson, you were starting to feel squimish and hot. You could feel a wet patch forming on your panties as you hear it squelch every time you rub your thights together.

It seemed like it was the only way to relieve the ache. Starting to become bothered and concerned, you rush to Mingyu's home office and knock on the door. You were staying over at his house for the meantime while your parents were on vacation.

Mingyu opens the door, he was wearing his specs, a black shirt that hugged his body perfectly, and gray sweatpants. "Gyu.. I don't feel good.. I feel like I'm going to get sick.." You whimper with a pout on your lips.

Mingyu looks at you concerned and pulls you into a hug, resting your face on his chest. "Oh baby.. where does it hurt? How bad is it?" He asks.

"Down there.. it's really uncomfortable.." You whisper looking down on the floor giving into his hug. A sly dirty smirk etches on Mingyu's face as you spoke. He didn't bought those for you, it was supposed to be for him and his fubu to try. But he was not at all complaining.

Mingyu was a sick and fucked up man. He knew that, he was aware of that. He tries to be as lawful as possible, but it was ludicrous when it comes to you. You were the girl of his fantasies. Sweet, cute, innocent. Everything he'd ever dream of. And now he had you. He was a man of opportunities, when he sees it, he takes it and he always almost never regrets it.

Which brings you to now: you laying on your back on his bed, legs spread apart, with him in the middle as he rubs over your skimpy shorts. "Hurts here baby?" He asks ever so sweetly.

You moan in relief nodding yes as he messages your mound. "Mhm.. 'dunno why.." you whisper looking at him, a helpless look on your face.

"Don't worry, I can help, just trust me okay?" Mingyu says, a kind smile on his face. Only if you knew. "Okay. I trust you Gyu." You smile back at him.

"Gonna strip you baby m'kay? It'll help relieve the heat." He mutters as he roams his hands on your waist before taking your pretty tank top off. You never wear bras around the house, your top being the only thing to serve as a barrier for your boobs.

He rubs all over your nipples, pinching and picking on it making you cry out and clench around nothing. It hurts but it feels so good. It was all foreign to you. You had never known of anything like this.

And Mingyu relishes in that. Loves the fact that he gets to do this first, that nobody has ever seen you like this. "Shh.. it's okay, it'll feel so much more better as we go on I promise, just trust me. How about a kiss hm?" He says hushing you from your sounds.

You nod looking at him with glassy eyes. Kisses are normal in your family, your mom and stepdad always kissing you on the cheeks or head, same goes for Mingyu, but you also give him some on the lips, just as he tells you. Because that's his love language apparently.

He leans down on you engaging in a sweet kiss, your hands reaching to wrap around his neck as you make out with him. You love doing this. It was like a reward. Apparently it's called making out because it makes up for everything.

Which is why you would make out with each other all the time as a reward for your achievements in school. Or when you guys would fight, you'd crawl on him and kiss him, sometimes it was harsh and aggressive but most of the time it was just sweet and calm.

Mingyu leans his clothed heavy dick to rest on your mounds, resting it's length between your slit. Another thing that you always do whenever the other was angry or hungry because it was similar to a hotdog sandwich which was his favourite. It helps him calm down whenever he was frustrated for work or when he was hungry but too lazy to grab some food.

It felt good and the words came from your brother whom your mother trusted so much, so you didn't complain. His hands move from your hand down to your shorts as he pulls them down revealing your pretty pink panties who are almost sheer because of how wet it was.

He pulls away from the kiss, mouth going down on your neck slowly down to your boobs giving them love and kisses. Another thing he taught you because according to him: every part of our body should be showered with love.

The aches were getting worse but it was starting to feel good, not painful anymore. Mingyu keeps on kissing down on you until he reaches your panties. "So wet baby.. 'm so proud of you." He says praising you like an achievement.

"P.. proud of me?" You question as he leaves feathery kisses on your clothed cunt making it even wetter than before. "Yes baby, this is a good thing, it helps relieve stress. You deserve this after working so hard." Mingyu answers.

You nod in response to his reassurance. You should do this more often for him to be more proud of you. Using his teeth, he takes your panties down finally coming face to face with your bare pussy.

His mouth waters at the sight, pink and very clearly wet. Extremely wet. "Gonna make out with your pussy now baby, giving it the love it deserves." Mingyu whispers before immediately diving in leaving you no chance of question before you start to moan.

It felt so good. Something you'd never felt before. You love your brother so much, he was just always so kind and loving to you. Always knowing how to make you feel better.

Using his two fingers to spread your folds, his mouth goes harder on sucking and licking your clit, putting you at his mercy. By this point your back was arching off his bed, hands gripping the sheets, eyes closed, mouth constantly moaning.

"Yeah? Feels good doesn't it?" Mingyu whispers, pulling off from your cunt before circling his index finger on your cunt, toying with your clit. All you could let out was a gasp as he spits on your pussy before diving back in.

"So good Gyu," You whimper and whine while he devours you. Slowly, you feel a foreign feeling build up in your stomach. It felt like a knot was forming inside of you waiting for it's release. You heave deep breaths as you feel it coming. "Gyu.. stop.. i need to— pee. I need to pee!" You speak to him with a strained voice.

Mingyu does nothing but smirk as he looks at you, mouth still going like crazy. He pins your legs down to the bed, forcing you open, making you unable to move. "Go on." Mingyu says.

Unable to stop yourself, you let go at the tone, cream coming out of your hole and smily clear substance covers your pussy. Mingyu bathes in this, shoving his face deeper in you aggressively sucking and licking you clean until you're whole body is shaking without control.

He leaves a kiss on your cunt before finally pulling away to admire his work. You were completely dazed and fucked up in all ways. He hadn't even put his dick on you and he'd already turned you into this.

He trails feathery kisses all over your body as leans down on you, starting from your thighs up all the eay to your forehead, and finally your mouth. "You okay princess?" He asks, voice soft.

You only nod your head, voice strainrd from all the moaning you did. Mingyu chuckles deep above you before bending his head down to your neck. He starts off with small kisses before moving to tiny nibbles.

You open your eyes in shock, lifting your shoulders up and giggling slightly getting tickled by his mouth before gasping as he starts to suck. He continues to do all three in consecutive making you moan. It feels so good.

His hands wrap around the unoccupied side of your neck rubbing it with his thumb as he leaves hickeys on the other. The thought of another guy in his position suddenly comes to mind and he feared that if he didn't took action, he might lose his cool and do things to you that you still weren't ready for.

Mingyu leaves a few more kisses on your neck before moving back to run his thumb on it. His full hand finally wraps around your neck, lifting your face up to look at him. "If anybody else but me tries to do this to you, you say no and turn your back on them m'kay?" He says wigh a pout on his lips.

You nod, a smile forming on your face. "Okay!" You say before Mingyu leans down down to meet his lips with yours, pulling away with a smile on his face.

Oh the things he'd do to you, and for you.

[ !!Separate FICTION and FANTASY from REALITY!! ]

[mrs-trophy-wife]

[anakinstwinklebunny]

SWEETHEART!ANAKIN HEADCANONS 2

TW: at some point it contains mentions of small sexual content (like breast kissing), so if you're feeling uncomfortable with it, please do not read

Author's note: you wanted it so I deliver it kindly to your notifications or whatever. It's long just for people who asked for even more sweetheart!ani - link

Maul - Manny Montana

Cal - Cameron Monaghan

Shmi - Pernilla August

Sweetheart!Anakin who, after founding out that your ex boyfriend cheated on you multiple times, drove to him with baseball bat for aggressive negotiations. It was the only and the last time he'd use force to hurt someone. Even if it felt good to make him regret even daring himself to think about other woman when he had you, Anakin felt guilty, dirty. And in that moment he promised himself to never do that again

Sweetheart!Anakin who tried to do everything to cheer you up after the break-up

Sweetheart!Anakin who obviously asked you out to prom and that moment started a relationship between you two

Sweetheart!Anakin who often took you out on small dates where you just drove around the neighborhood or around the city. Ending the day with watching the stars on his car

Sweetheart!Anakin who, as a teenager, fully acknowledged that you are the one he wants to spend the rest of the life with, so from that time he saved money for an engagement ring;

"I want to marry y/n," he proclaimed with a sense of pride, looking earnestly at his mother.

She glanced at him with a tender smile. "Ani, you're only fifteen," she responded softly, her eyes filled with both affection and concern.

He puffed out his chest and squared his shoulders, a gesture of youthful determination. "But I’ll be sixteen soon," he insisted with unwavering resolve.

His mother’s smile broadened, and she pressed a gentle kiss to his forehead before turning back to the sink to wash her hands. The kitchen, filled with the comforting aroma of evening cooking, seemed to embrace their conversation.

"And sixteen is a very mature age." he continued, his voice following her as he leaned against the counter. "I’m quite mature for my age. I have more responsibilities than most boys my age," he added, his tone a blend of earnestness and pride as he studied the gleam of the kitchen’s fixtures.

"I know you do, baby"

He crossed his arms over his chest, his gaze fixed intently on her. "Then why don’t you believe me when I say I want to marry y/n?" he asked, a hint of a pout tugging at his lips.

"I didn’t say I don’t believe you," she replied gently, focusing on cutting a carrot. "I said you're too young to get married, and I’m sure y/n’s mother feels the same way."

He slumped against the counter with dramatic flair, crossing his arms and frowning deeply. "That’s not fair," he muttered under his breath.

"Why isn’t it fair?"

"Because why should I wait in the first place?" he insisted, his tone resolute. He watched her slice the carrot, his thoughts consumed by y/n. "She’s the best person I know, and she’s so beautiful," he added with a heavy sigh, his heart and mind wholly set on her.

His mother’s lips curved into a tender smile as she walked over to kiss the top of his head before opening the fridge to gather ingredients for dinner.

He leaned against her for a moment, peering into the fridge and surveying the array of food. "She smiles in the most enchanting way," he said, his voice filled with admiration. "And her eyes are perfect, like the sky on a clear day." He could have gone on endlessly about her, but this was just the tip of the iceberg in expressing his love. "She deserves the best, and I want to give that to her."

After small pause, he continued, "She’s so smart and kind, always ready to help others. Yet, I don’t think she fully realizes how amazing she is. She has this incredible sense of humor that catches me off guard and makes me laugh so hard..." He glanced at his mother, searching for her reaction. "I promise I’d take good care of her," he added quietly.

"I know you would," she replied softly.

He studied her intently, determined to win this argument. “Then why can’t I marry her?” he asked, tilting his head slightly.

“Ani,” she sighed, her tone gentle. “We’ve discussed this before. You’re too young.”

He pouted but continued to watch his mother prepare the meal. He was stubborn, but he understood when she was resolute. “So when will you let me marry her? When I’m eighteen?”

“It’s not just about age,” she explained softly. “It’s about being truly certain that she’s the one you want to spend your life with. Marriage is a serious commitment, Ani. I wouldn’t want you to marry young and later regret it. I want you to be absolutely sure, when you’re an adult.”

He huffed, knowing her arguments were difficult to counter. Though he was only sixteen, he couldn’t imagine his life without y/n.

“Yeah, yeah, but still,” he muttered, frowning as he leaned against the counter, crossing his arms over his chest.

Sweetheart!Anakin who at the age of 20 bought an engagement ring from the money he saved. It was a radiantly shining five stone round brilliant diamond. White gold with two diamond stones at each shoulder and the biggest one in the middle. It perfectly reflected the light; so flawless, so luminous. He was grinning like crazy at the thought of possibly slipping it on your finger;

(here's link if you're interested in what it looks like: ʕ⁠ ⁠ꈍ⁠ᴥ⁠ꈍ⁠ʔ)

“Just promise you’ll wear something special tonight, okay?” he said into his phone, his anxiety evident.

“Ani, I’m not deaf,” your voice came through the phone with a hint of exasperation. “I’ve heard you.”

“I know, I know,” he said, still holding the ring close to eye it from different angles. “I just want you to look extra stunning tonight.”

“You always say I look beautiful in anything I wear,” you replied.

“Because you do look absolutely gorgeous in everything,” he said quickly. “But I want tonight to be special. I want you to look drop-dead gorgeous.” He added, stopping at an old bench. His stomach churned with nerves that refused to let go.

He could almost envision your smile through the phone. “Then I’ll wear something drop-dead gorgeous just to make you fall to your knees” you teased.

His heart skipped a beat at your words. He already knew you'd make him fall to his knees tonight, especially with what he plans to do. You could hear his chuckle through the phone. But it was a bit different, as if excitement and anxiety surged within him. “I have no doubts about it,” he replied, leaning back against the bench and taking a deep breath to steady his racing heart.

He had to admit he was terrified, but not of your answer. His fear was that he might mess up, say something awkward, or forget to ask you properly. For millions times, or even more, he imagined this situation. From being just a teenager, to this day he thought what he'll say, how he'll say it and where it's be. It was almost overwhelming, he had never felt so much adrenaline and squeezing his insides stress in his whole life. He took a few more deep breaths and a sip of wine, trying to remind himself that this was the most significant moment of his life and everything will go perfectly

His gaze shifted to the entrance of the restaurant, and he nearly choked on his wine. You were smiling at the waitress who checked your name before letting you in. He was utterly stunned. You were wearing a crimson red dress that clung to your curves perfectly, driving him crazy with your beauty.

For a moment, it felt as if his heart had stopped, and he could hardly breathe. Time seemed to stand still, his mouth going dry as he took in your appearance. You looked... simply perfect. Gorgeous. Breathtaking. His mind struggled to comprehend how you could look so incredible, and the realization that you were dressed like that just for him made his throat even drier.

The dress was a mermaid cut, hugging your hips beautifully. It was adorned with small, shiny gemstones that made it shimmer even more, accentuating your cleavage in a way that made his breath catch. He was certain he was on the verge of a heart attack as he watched you approach their table after making an eye contact. The way the dress clung to your figure was driving him to distraction, so he bit his lip and took a deep breath, struggling to calm his racing heart. He mentally cursed himself for staring at your cleavage, though he couldn’t seem to look away. Everything about you was mesmerizing, and his heart continued to race. He knew his hands would be shaking if he had to hold them up right now. As you drew nearer, all he could do was smile, feeling the knots in his stomach as he stood to help her into her seat. After you were seated, he pushed the chair back and sat down again, unable to tear his eyes away from you. The breathlessness returned as he took in every detail of your appearance, from your slightly messy bun to your full, raspberry lips. “You look...” he began, pausing as he searched for the right words. Gorgeous was the first word that came to mind, but it felt inadequate compared to the way you looked. He let out a small, breathy chuckle. “perfect,” he said, his mouth going dry once more at the sight of his beautiful girl “Thank you, you look very nice as well,” you replied warmly. He took a deep breath, attempting to regain his composure. How was he supposed to concentrate when you looked so stunning in a dress that revealed so much? He was afraid that being too distracted might cause him to mess up this important moment. He managed a small smile and nodded slightly. “Are you hungry?” he asked with a light chuckle, picking up his menu to review it again. “Oh gosh, yes,” you said with a sigh, immediately reaching for your own menu. He struggled to hold back a smile as he reviewed the menu, trying to focus on the food. At this point, all he could concentrate on was you. You were more than just beautiful; you were beyond words. Terms like gorgeous, stunning, and magnificent seemed inadequate. You embodied perfection in that moment, leaving him utterly mesmerized. Your presence rendered him speechless, a feeling that was not new but was intensified every time he saw you in a something new

As they enjoyed their meal, you broke the silence. “What’s going on today? You’re all dressed up, my mom was unusually excited and insistently walked after me to make me wear a dress.. Is there some special occasion? Did I forget something?” your cheeks flushed deeply in what came an embarrassed and slight shame “You didn’t forget anything,” he grinned to himself. He knew your mother was aware of the proposal since he made sure to first ask your parents for approval. “Can’t I just take the beautiful woman I love out to dinner?” you only blushed deeply, feeling extremely exposed to him. But not only from the revealing dress you've never wore before but also spiritually, as if your whole being was revealed to his loving eyes “Stop looking at me like that,”

“Like what?” he feigned innocence, though he knew exactly what you meant “Like I’m about to vanish if you close your eyes,” he chuckled again, “well, you’re so stunning, sometimes I feel like you’re not real” he leaned back in his chair with a smile.

Sweetheart!Anakin who proposed to you after asking your parents for approval/blessing;

He held you close as you strolled down the street, his jacket draped over your shoulders not only to keep you warm but also to offer a bit more coverage for your stunning dress. You looked breathtakingly beautiful. He glanced at you again, unable to suppress the broad, foolish grin spreading across his face. He felt a surge of readiness—he was poised to ask the question that would forever alter your lives.

"Do you remember our first date?" he asked, his voice tinged with anticipation.

your lips curled into a teasing smile "Are you referring to the one in kindergarten or the one in high school?"

He chuckled, rolling his eyes with affectionate exasperation, though the recollections made him smile. "You could say both," he replied, slowing your pace to take in your face properly.

"Well, I loved both," your smile turning warm and genuine. "You were adorable as a six-year-old."

"Were?"

"Now you're handsome and cute" your eyes dancing with affection.

He could only smile, almost feeling his face muscles giving up from too much pressure and stretching. However, he ignored the slight pain to guide you to a quieter, more secluded stretch of the street. The area was dimly lit, and while a few pedestrians were scattered about, no one was in your immediate vicinity.

"Do you remember when we had our fake engagement?" he murmured with a nostalgic glint in his eyes.

you laughed softly "Of course. Although the ring pop you gave me was devoured a long time ago."

"Maybe this one will last a bit longer," he said with a nervous edge in his tone, his thumb lightly brushing your knuckles.

you started to chuckle unexpectedly. "What do you—"

Before you could finish your question, he sank to one knee, his eyes locked with yours, a profound sincerity in his gaze. He released your hand to retrieve the small black box from his pocket.

He opened it slowly, revealing the ring he had chosen earlier that day. As he held it up, his gaze fell back to yours. In that moment, he realized that no amount of carefully crafted words could capture what he felt. What mattered was the truth of his emotions. He didn't need a grand speech; he just needed to be sincere.

"I... I don’t have a fancy speech prepared for this," he murmured, his voice tinged with vulnerability.

He took another deep breath, his fingers tightening around the box.

"But what I do have is the truth," he continued, his voice breaking slightly. He didn't mind his emotions showing; he didn't care that he was overwhelmed. You were standing before him, the most beautiful person he had ever seen, and that was all that mattered.

"The truth is, I am absolutely and completely in love with you," he said, his gaze steady despite the lump forming in his throat. "Every part of me—my heart, my soul—everything belongs to you." He swallowed hard again, struggling to keep his composure.

"You are the first thought I have each morning and the last one at night. Just your presence brings me more joy than I can express..I-i can't imagine a day without you, or my life without you. You are everything to me...And I want to spend the rest of my life with you," he continued, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. "To love you, to share each day and night with you, to hold you close, to watch you grow, and to see you shine even brighter than you already do." He took a shaky breath, his resolve firm despite his emotions.

“So, I asked for your parents' blessing, and they gave it to me. But the only approval I need is yours,” He offered you a reassuring smile, drawing another deep breath to steady his pounding heart and quell the sudden surge of anxiety.

He lifted the ring higher, holding it out to you with a hopeful gaze. “I love you more than I ever thought was humanely possible. So will you… will you do me honour a-and-- marry me?”

Well, that was unexpected. All the words he just said, brought an expression full of surprise and emotion. Never in your life, you experienced such love from a person. It was.. overwhelming to say the least. But maybe it's normal? Since we, people, were created to give and receive love? So when you finally meet someone so commitment to what God gave us, it feels so right and pure?

He held his breath, his mind racing through a thousand thoughts. For a few agonizing seconds, silence hung between them, heightening his anxiety. “You’re supposed to say something,” he mumbled, suddenly feeling self-conscious and vulnerable.

You chuckled softly, tears streaming down your cheeks. “Oh gosh... I—yes.”

"Yeah?" He grinned

“Of course!” you confirmed with a beaming smile. As he rose from his knee, he quickly slipped a shining ring onto your finger and pulled you into a tight embrace, lifting you off the ground with joy.

He held you close, just spinning you around in his arms, laughter spilling from both of your lips while great happiness enveloped him. His smile stretched wider than he ever thought possible. When he finally set you down, he gently cupped your face in his hands and kissed you deeply, pouring all his love into the moment.

Pulling back just enough to rest his forehead against yours, he let out a soft, breathy chuckle. “I love you so much,” he said, his voice trembling slightly with emotion. He still could hardly believe it—you had said yes. You wanted to marry him.

“Are you crying?” you asked with a giggle

“Maybe,” he admitted quietly, wiping the shear tear with his hand

Sweetheart!Anakin who cried during the wedding;

As the wedding drew nearer, Anakin's nerves began to get the best of him.

"No, Ani, that’s not quite right," Shmi chided softly, her tone gentle yet firm.

He sighed deeply, staring at the tie in his hands with frustration. After twenty minutes of futile effort, the tie remained stubbornly askew. “Why is this so difficult?” he muttered in exasperation.

Shmi stepped in, gently nudging his hands aside to take over. “Come on, you’re just nervous.”

He sighed deeply, glancing down at her with a mixture of nerves and excitement swirling in his stomach. Today was monumental, perhaps the most significant day of his life. He was about to marry the person he cherished more than anything in the universe, and the nerves were unmistakable. His mother was right. As always.

“Is it that obvious?” he asked, his voice tinged with apprehension.

the chuckle followed her words. “Yes.”

He managed a smile, though it came out a bit forced. He reached up to run his nervous fingers through his hair, but his mother’s gentle slap on his hand stopped him in his tracks. “Stop messing with your hair.”

He huffed lightly but relented, knowing it was pointless to argue. He wanted everything to be flawless, and he knew his hair was part of that. Taking a deep breath, he tried to steady his pounding heart and quell the fluttering in his stomach. “There’s going to be so many people,” he murmured.

“Does it bother you?” she asked gently.

He shifted uncomfortably, averting his gaze as he pondered the question. The prospect of so many people was daunting, but the real unease came from something deeper. It wasn’t the crowd that unsettled him; it was the sheer magnitude of the commitment he was about to make. He struggled to articulate his thoughts. “I just…” he began, but the words eluded him. It was the concept of marriage itself that churned his insides with anxious energy. “No, I suppose I’ll manage. But… can she?”

“Don’t overthink it, Ani. Everything will be okay.”

He exhaled slowly, taking a deep breath to steady himself. His mother was right—it was just nerves and anxious energy. Feeling nervous before a wedding was normal, wasn’t it? He shouldn’t let his mind spiral. It would all work out in the end. At least, that was what he hoped. He glanced out the window, realizing that they would be heading to the ceremony soon.

His mother pressed a soft kiss to his forehead before leaving him with his friends.

After gazing out the window, he leaned against the wall, glancing at the clock to see the moments ticking away. The anticipation of seeing you in your wedding dress was almost overwhelming. It wasn’t as if he’d never seen you dressed up before, but today was different. Today, you would be in a wedding gown that would make you even more breathtaking than usual. He was sure of it. The thought alone sent a shiver of excitement through him, making his heart race and a smile tug at his lips.

“Take a shot, Skywalker,” Maul called out, already on his third drink. "You'll feel much better"

He rolled his eyes, though he understood his friend’s need for a drink. The situation was enough to make anyone want to take the edge off. He accepted the shot glass, downing the contents in one quick motion before handing it back. The warmth of the alcohol began to ease his nerves. “Just don’t get so plastered you end up embarrassing me out there.”

“I’ll make sure to record how you're crying when y/n walks down the aisle" cal teased

Anakin shot him a sharp look, but the other guys just chuckled. “Shut up. I won’t be crying,” he insisted, crossing his arms with a hint of stubbornness.

As you stepped into view, his heart skipped a beat. Watching you walk down the aisle felt like witnessing something out of a dream—no, a fantasy. You were beyond beautiful; you were ethereal, an angel descended from the heavens. Your long dress trailed gracefully behind you, and the delicate veil covering your face only enhanced your allure. As you drew closer, his breath caught in his throat, and his eyes began to well up with tears. He couldn’t tear his gaze away from you, completely captivated by the sight of you.

Maul leaned in and whispered, "You are crying."

He quickly wiped away the tear that had escaped, grumbling a soft “shut up” in response, though there was no real bite to his words. His eyes were locked on you, unable to look anywhere else. Every fiber of his being ached to pull you into his arms, to hold you close. But he knew he had to wait, just a little longer, until the ceremony was over. The anticipation was almost unbearable, but seeing you—seeing his future with you—made the wait worth every second.

Sweetheart!Anakin who cried during his speech;

Anakin takes a shaky breath, his voice already thick with emotion as he starts to speak, tears glistening in his eyes.

"I—I’m not sure where to start. I’ve thought about this moment so many times, and now that it’s here, it’s just…overwhelming..." he chuckled through already building tears "When I look at you, I can’t believe how lucky I am. Lucky doesn’t even begin to cover it. I don’t know what I did to deserve you, but whatever it was, I’d do it a million times over if it meant I could stand here with you today..We’ve known each other our whole lives. From the time we were kids, you’ve been there. You’ve been my best friend, my confidant, my partner in crime. You’ve been the person who’s seen me at my worst and somehow still loved me. You’ve been my light, my beautiful star in the night sky, guiding me through every dark moment..There were times when I felt lost, like I didn’t know where I was going or what I was doing, but you—you—were always there, like a steady hand pulling me through. You’ve filled my life with so much love, so much joy, and I don’t think I’ll ever be able to find the words to tell you how much you mean to me."

Anakin paused to wipe away a tear that escaped down his cheek, his voice trembling as he continues reading the written words on the paper.

You make me want to be a better man every single day. When I look at you, I see everything I’ve ever wanted, everything I could ever need. You’re my heart, my home, and I’m so damn lucky that I get to call you my wife..And as your husband, I promise you this: I will love you with everything I have. I will protect you, support you, and cherish you, no matter what life throws our way. I will be your rock when you need strength, your shoulder when you need to cry, and your biggest fan when you reach for your dreams. I will stand by you, through every high and every low, and I will never stop trying to make you as happy as you’ve made me..I’ll be the one who wakes up early just to watch the sunrise with you, and the one who stays up late, talking about our dreams until the stars fade away. I promise to laugh with you until our sides hurt, to hold you close when the world feels too big, and to never stop reminding you how incredibly beautiful you are—inside and out. I promise to be your shelter, your adventure, and your comfort all rolled into one. To love you fiercely and gently, with every beat of my heart. And I’ll make sure that every day, I give you a reason to smile, to feel cherished, and to know just how deeply you are loved..You are my everything, my shining star in the night sky and I promise that I’ll spend the rest of my life trying to make you as happy as you’ve made me. I love you more than words could ever say, and I can’t wait to spend forever with you."

Sweetheart!Anakin who, for your honeymoon, took you to different planets

Sweetheart!Anakin who doesn't really care if you're shaved (down there) or not shaved. He always says that for him it's not gross (since you thought it'd be for him) and if any man thinks that way, he's an idiot. For Anakin having sex with you is not only a very pleasurable activity but a deep, spiritual connection between a husband and a wife. And, he loves you. He saw the worse of you, and the best, and he loves every single version of you. So, if you haven't shaved (and you're still up for some love making), he really doesn't care about some hair to go through

Sweetheart!Anakin who is highly considerate, always thinking of ways to make you feel special and appreciated. He remembers little details and surprises you with his thoughtfulness every day.

Sweetheart!Anakin whose physical touch is a big part of your relationship. He often holds your hand, brushes your hair out of your face, and gives you warm hugs that make you feel safe and cherished.

Sweetheart!Anakin who is your rock during tough times. His calming presence and unwavering support help you navigate challenges, and he always knows how to make you smile, even on your worst days

Sweetheart!Anakin who loves taking you on little adventures, whether it’s a spontaneous road trip, a hike in nature, or simply exploring a new part of town

Sweetheart!Anakin who has a soft spot for animals and usually brings home strays or injured creatures to take care for, of course to your surprise and unknown

Sweetheart!Anakin who is the type of partner who not only encourages you to pursue your hobbies/dreams but also actively participates or helps in any way he can, whether it’s by acquiring rare materials for your craft or simply being your biggest cheerleader.

Sweetheart!Anakin who enjoys dancing with you, whether it’s a slow, intimate dance in the living room or a fun, upbeat dance at a party. He doesn't even need music, he'd just swing and hum the song, twirling you around

Sweetheart!Anakin who has a special way of waking you up in the mornings (mostly on the weekends or free days from work). He either does it by quietly whispering sweet words, gently playing with your hair, or even bringing you breakfast in bed with your favorite morning drink.

Sweetheart!Anakin who knowing your love for stargazing. He once spent an entire evening mapping out the constellations visible from your favorite spot. He even named a star after you, the one that always appeared above your house at night. The one that was slightly bigger than others, that shined more than every other. He didn't really care if this star was already named by astrologers, for him it only had one name - yours. As a symbol of how you light up his life every day

Sweetheart!Anakin who sometimes leaves you coded messages or puzzles to solve, leading to hidden surprises or secret dates. And often refuses to help you;

"Ani… please…" you whined softly, taking slow, tentative steps toward Anakin, who was casually leaning against a tree, his hands buried in his pockets, with that familiar smug smirk playing on his lips. "Just one hint."

"No can do, Rapunzel," he teased, shaking his head slightly. "I can't make it too easy for you."

"Please… Is there any way I can convince you to change your mind?" Your voice was sweet, almost pleading, as you inched closer, hoping to sway him.

He smirked at your words, struggling to keep his laughter in check as he watched you use that soft, pleading tone of yours. It was hard not to be swayed by how endearing you were.

"Nope. You’re going to have to try a lot harder, sunshine."

You stepped closer so your lips would brush tenderly against his jawline. Each kiss was a sweet, teasing caress, making it even harder for him to maintain his composure. He felt the familiar warmth of your soft, plush lips, and he closed his eyes, savoring the sensation. His hands instinctively moved to your waist

"….yeah, still not working. Not at all."

"Please… I love you so much." Your lips traveled to his neck, each kiss a gentle whisper of affection that made his resolve waver further.

He tilted his head to the side, giving you better access as his eyes fluttered shut. His grip moves down to your hips, and he murmured your name in a low, hushed tone, his mind starting to drift and blur with the sweet distraction. "You know, you’re quite the menace."

"Now that’s not the hint," you teased softly, your lips brushing his neck.

"Mm… You’re incredibly lucky I’m so head over heels for you," a smile tugging at the corners of his lips

With a final, tender embrace, he pulled you against him. He hesitated for a moment, but the look in your eyes made it clear that he was utterly defeated by your charm.

"Alright, alright… It’s behind the tree."

Your face lit up with a triumphant smile as you planted a quick, grateful kiss on his cheek. You then stepped back, eagerly heading towards the tree

Sweetheart!Anakin who's experiencing your changing hormones during your period. Sometimes you'd just say things he'd find funny, desperately trying to not break in laughter for your sake, but again, he's very patient with you. Since for him, there are times when he'll treat you like a queen you are but there are times when you need to be treated like a little girl

Sweetheart!Anakin who LOVES cuddling to you. He could do it for the whole day, just stuck to your body with no care in the world;

Anakin clung to your side, his arms and legs wrapped around you like a giant koala bear. His face was nuzzled into the curve of your bare neck. He was undeniably, hopelessly, and utterly clingy.

“You don’t want to go to sleep?” you asked softly, your voice a tender murmur as your fingers played gently with his curls, tugging them just enough to send shivers down his spine.

He sighed, the sensation of your touch stirring something deep within him. Burying his face further into the crook of your neck, he inhaled your sweet, addicting scent, mumbling against your skin, “No… wanna stay like this.”

He shook his head slightly, his legs tangling with yours beneath the covers. Tightening his embrace, he pressed himself closer, as if trying to fuse you into one with him. The feeling of your body against his—soft, warm, and familiar—was something he could never get enough of. With a lazy, contented sigh, he trailed his fingers slowly over your bare skin “You’re so warm.”

You giggled softly "Thank you, though are you sure it’s me and not just the duvet?"

He groaned in mock frustration, shaking his head and nuzzling his face into your chest, a bit more insistently this time. “You,” he mumbled, his lips brushing against the sensitive spot on your cleavage. His hands continued their lazy, loving exploration of your skin, each touch lingering as if he were committing every inch of your to memory. “It’s you. Your body. Your skin. You’re warm.”

His nose traced the line of her collarbone, a soft, contented noise escaped him, somewhere between a hum and a sigh, as he buried his face against the curve of your breast. The warmth of your body, so close and so inviting, was almost overwhelming in the best possible way. “You give me butterflies, you know?” he murmured, his voice a little breathless before he added with a quiet, reverent sigh, “Or forget butterflies… I feel the whole zoo when I’m with you.”

He breathed you in as if he could never get enough. “I love you so much,” he whispered, his voice thick with emotion. “God, you have no idea.” The warmth in his chest only grew stronger, a mix of love and longing that made him leave a trail of tender kisses along your full breasts “I’m gonna miss you…”

you smiled softly, brushing a hand through his hair although you held back a small moan “But I’m not going anywhere.”

With a playful, exaggerated sigh, he placed his chin on your chest, enough to look at you. A slight pout forming on his lips. “But I’m gonna fall asleep, and I’ll miss you in my dreams… I just love you that much… wildly, insanely… infinitely…”

Sweetheart!Anakin who isn't the type to ask you for nudes, since he prefers when you send him the photos of your smile

Sweetheart!Anakin who won your (and his) family's kids love. Whenever your families interact, the children are just rushing to Anakin so he'd play with them, draw something for them or say something funny

TAG LIST: @kingdomhate @divineani @erosmutt @haydensprettyprincess @mistress-amidala @catnipaddictt @heartscone @haydensbbg @inneedsoffanfics @jediavengers @literally-izzy @anisluvrgirl @fuckmyskywalker @slutforfinnickodair

(if you want to be removed or added then don't be shy and let me know 💋)

[arlana-likes-to-write]

Dirty Thoughts

Summary: It was so wrong to have these thoughts. She was engaged to your boss, your best friend but it was impossible to not fall in love with her.

Relationships: Natasha x Maria, Maria x reader

Warnings: non Avenger AU, Gang AU, cheating, lots of cheating, mention of violence, implied torture, implied sexual content, gun shot wound, blood, angst

Word Count: 3.3k

Note: I do not want to talk about how this one shot made me spiral into possibility writing a multiple part story. If you are interested let me know lol. Also, thank you to @sycamorelibrary754 for helping me with the engagement ring

God, you were so fucked. Absolutely 100% fucked. You stood at the party, hand wrapped around the beer you were drinking. At a party, your job was to be alert and look for possible threats. Tonight was different. Tonight was a party for celebration as the head of the Black Widow gang was engaged to her long-time girlfriend, Maria Hill. You were in charge of Natasha's security, so the redhead placed you in charge of Maria's protection. You grew close to her, learning her every secret, dislike, and like. You knew her coffee order, what ice cream to get when she was on her period, and her favorite movie to put on to make her smile. You loved your job. Natasha took a chance on you and saved your life, which makes your current predicament so much worse.

No one knew you were head over heels in love with Maria Hill. No one could ever know. "I'm pretty sure Nat gave everyone the night off." You were so lost in your thoughts that you were surprised by Maria standing before you. "I think I saw Pietro doing a keg stand." You chuckled and sipped your beer.

"I'm always on the clock, sweetheart. Got to keep the crown jewel of the Black Widows safe." Maria rolled her eyes, but you didn't miss the slight blush on her cheeks. "Congratulations, by the way. That's an impressive rock." The ring was gold with a square-cut diamond. Along the band and the main diamond were smaller jewels. It looked expensive, but that was Natasha. She liked expensive things, from clothes to cars to liquor. Before Maria, the redhead was always at the clubs throwing money at women left and right. She looked at her hand.

"A little too flashy for my taste," you knew that too. She wanted something modest. "But Nat likes to claim what's hers." You hated how your stomach burned with jealousy.

"Oh, I know that. Besides, Romanoff has enough money lying around. She should spend it on something," you smiled. "Hey, maybe you can convince her to take us on vacation. I heard the Maldives are beautiful this time of year." A quick smack to the back of your head caused you to jump. Maria laughed as Natasha rounded from behind and wrapped her arms around Maria's waist.

"Are you saying I don't treat you well?" She smirked.

"You treat us like shit, boss," you deadpanned. "I hate it here." You winked at Maria. Her smile caused your heart to skip a beat. Natasha scuffed, placing her chin on Maria's shoulder.

"You know I saved your life. I could have left you on the streets of New York, but out of the kindness of my heart, I gave you a job." You rolled your eyes.

"And here I thought you liked me for my charming personality and good looks," you smirked. She narrowed her eyes at you, pointing at you over Maria.

"I'm going to kick your ass, Sentinel,"

"Darling," Maria placed her on Natasha's chest. "You know she could kick your ass." You had to hide your smirk behind your drink.

"Unbelievable," Natasha mumbled.

"Go go have a good night, you lovebirds," you said. "You know where to find me if you need me." You held out your hand for Natasha. "Congratulations. I'm happy for you." And you were. No matter how much it hurt for Natasha to be marrying Maria, you would always be happy for her. At least Maria would still be in your life. Instead of shaking your hand, your boss pulled you into a hug.

"Enjoy yourself tonight. I heard a certain captain wanted your attention," you chuckled, but you looked at Maria, who was frowning. Thinking she was angry at you for hugging Natasha, you patted her back and ended the hug.

"Use protection," you told them as Natasha grabbed Maria's hand and returned to the party. Natasha still managed to flip you off. All members of the Black Widow crew were given code names. Carol was Captain Marvel. Peggy was Agent 13. Monica was Photon. You were Sentinel, the vigilant guardian who watched over the gang's safety. It was Maria who gave it to you.

It was late one night, and you were new to protecting Maria. Before she started Natasha, Maria was studying to get into the academy. She spent a lot of her time at the library, so in turn, you spent a lot of time there as well. When you were walking back to the car, two street thugs tried and failed to jump her. You were quick to take them down before they could even touch her. Sentinel was a name everyone called you, and it became a name that was feared on the streets.

The same night you saved her, you realized that your thoughts and feelings towards Maria were not platonic. Everything Maria and Natasha had you wanted. Now the ring on her finger solidified she could never be yours.

*

"Can you pick Maria up from her father's?" Natasha asked you. "I have a meeting with the Maximoff Twins, and I can't get out of it." You frowned. A part of your job was to know the schedules of Natasha and Maria. There was no meeting with the Maximoffs today; you knew that. Instead, Natasha and Maria had a date planned. Nothing was set in stone in this business. The redhead rolled her sleeves and picked up a knife from the table.

"Yeah, I can do that," you put on a pair of latex gloves. "Do you want me to take her back to the house?" She handed you a knife.

"It's up to her. Take the card and get whatever she wants." She rolled her shoulders and faced the man tied to the chair in the center of the room. "Ready, Sentinel?"

"Always boss."

*

Once you were changed and out of the blood-stained shirt, you made your way to Maria. You relieved the lower-level member and walked up the house's front steps. Before you knocked, the door swung open. "Fury," you smiled at the man. "How's my favorite beat cop?" He frowned.

"You smell of bleach." He deadpanned.

"Just a new perfume I'm trying out," you squeezed past him, and you heard the door close. Nick Fury, the commissioner of the NYPD, was surprised when Natasha started dating his daughter, but she did everything for a reason. At first, it was a tactical relationship, a way to bend the relationship between the NYPD and the Black Widows. Over time, Natasha fell in love with Maria.

You found Maria in the kitchen, her back to you as she washed the dishes. "Who would have thought an engagement would turn you into a housewife?" She jumped and dropped the plate into the water. A frown was on her face when she turned around to face you. "Awe, are you not excited to see your favorite bodyguard?"

"No, I am," she sighed and focused on her task.

"I know," Natasha was canceling more and more dates and getting stuck at the office. It was the summer, so there were more things to do. The days were longer, and arrival gangs were out to steal the Black Widow's turf. "But," you leaned against the counter with Natasha's credit card between your fingers. "The boss gave me her card. We could do anything on her dime." Maria stayed quiet. "Or we can return to the house, order takeout, and watch the Breakfast Club." A smile tugged at the corner of her lips. "Come on, Ria," you whined. "You know I hate seeing you sad." It was true. It tugged at your heartstrings, and you would do anything to make her smile.

"Help me with the dishes, and then we'll go to the bookstore and get Tai food." You smiled.

"Aye, aye, captain," you gave her a salute, and her laughter danced off the kitchen's walls. Her laughter was music to your ears. It was beautiful, so full of light. You would do anything to hear it again and again.

*

In hindsight, you should have knocked, but you were so focused on the phone call that you walked into Natasha's office. It was late, and Monica's frantic phone call woke you up, and you raced to see Natasha. Red room guys were seen gathering weapons at the dock. They were planning an attack. "I just got here," you told Monica. "Don't engage without us," you opened the office door. "I- Jesus Christ," if it weren't for the phone call, you would have said a lot more. "Nothing, I'll call you back." You hung up.

Maybe you should have knocked. Perhaps you would have heard the moans behind the closed door if you weren't on the phone. The moans were not coming from Maria but from Wanda Maximoff. She was topless, lying on top of Natasha's desk with the redhead between her legs. Your jaw clenched as Natasha rushed to pull away from her and throw her a sweatshirt.

"It's not-"

"Save it," you snapped. Oh, you were seething. All you saw was red. She was engaged. Maria was planning a wedding. You wanted to push her up against the wall and tell her off. "We have an actual problem, but please, if you think this little affair is more important, please continue." Natasha ran her fingers through her hair. You ignored Wanda as she stood up from the desk.

"What is it? Is it Maria?" She had to be fucking with you. Even across the room, you could see the hickys covering Natasha's neck. You laughed. You were so close to snapping.

"Oh, so you remember her name? Your fiance," you shook your head. No, she's safe. The Red Room was spotted on the docks gathering weapons. Monica said she tried to call you but couldn't reach you." Now you looked at Wanda. "I guess you had your hands full." You were furious not only with your friend but also with yourself. How did you not notice this? All of the signs were there. Are you coming or not?"

"Sentinel-"

"I don't want to hear it, Romanoff. People's lives are at stake. People you promised to protect. Are you coming?" Natasha nodded, but you refused to look away. She kissed Wanda goodbye and told her that she would call her later. Unbelievable, you thought. Oh, you were going to kill your best friend.

*

The rest of the crew knew there was a problem between you and Natasha. You were still a professional and did your job, but that was it. Gone was the friendly banter, the inside jokes. All of it changed overnight.

Loyalty was important to you. It was important for the crew to maintain respect, but Natasha broke that with you. Before joining the Black Widows, you were fucked over by the last crew you worked with. They ignored your warnings about an upcoming job. They promised that whatever would happen, they would have your back. But the job fell through, and they left you. Natasha found you before the cops showed up. You were forever grateful for the redhead and knew you would stay loyal to her because of what she did for you.

Now she was using that loyalty over your head to keep her secret, to help cover for her. She kept saying that you were loyal to her, not Maria. She saved your life, not Maria. She was your boss, not Maria. It was killing you.

Every date Natasha missed. Every time she stayed late at the office, you saw Maria lose herself more each time. Adding to the pressure of the Red Room, you were at your wits end. So you quit. You told Natasha you were done.

You were in your room packing up your stuff while nursing a gunshot wound to your stomach. A simple meeting turned into a shoot-out as Red Room goons surprised you. Lately, it seemed Natasha kept making bad calls after bad calls. Last week, Carol got hurt. Two days ago, Peggy got jumped. Now, you were on the receiving end of it. These girls were your family, but you weren't sure what to do. The Red Room was gaining momentum. You heard whispers of HYDRA gaining territory. An all-out war was growing.

"I can't believe you are leaving," Maria's voice followed the sound of your front door slamming shut. "And I had to find out through Natasha." She was here quicker than you thought. You wanted to be done packing, but the wound slowed you down.

"Carol will do just fine," you refused to look at her. "She knows all your likes, dislikes, and what you are allergic to.

"I don't want Carol. I want you," you closed your eyes. You knew it was as a bodyguard and nothing more, but a part of you wished it was more. "Why are you leaving me?"

"I'm not leaving you. I-" Would you say to her? That her fiance was cheating on her with someone Maria considered a friend. That a gang war was coming and so many people were going to die in the crossfire.

"I know about Natasha and Wanda," you spun around to face her finally. She was wearing your sweatshirt that you thought you had lost and a pair of jeans. Her hair was damp. She must have rushed over here as soon as her shower was over, but you thought she never looked more beautiful. "You've been shot," she said.

"You knew?" You questioned.

"Don't change the subject," you rolled your eyes because she changed the conversation. She grabbed the first aid kit you had left out and forced you to sit in your recliner. "Of course, I know. I'm not an idiot." You hissed as she pulled the gauze off. "I think it hurts more that you knew and didn't tell me. I thought we were close." She cleaned around the wound. "No exit wound. I have to get the bullet out." You nodded.

"If you knew," you squeezed the chair's armrests as she dug for the bullet. She cooed softly.

"I know, baby," she whispered. "This is the worst part." It had to be the pain. Maybe you were delirious, but you swear you heard her call you baby. You called her pet names because you liked to see her blush.

"If you knew," you continued. She placed the bullet on the side table. "Why stay? Why not call off the engagement?"

"Because I wanted to stay close to the gang," she threaded the suture through the needle. "I wanted to stay close to you." You let her confession rest in the silence as she focused on stitching the gunshot. You felt no pain when the needle pierced your skin. When she was done, she placed a new bandage on it. You grabbed her chin and forced her to look up at you.

"Tell me what you meant by that."

"Nothing," she said. Don't worry about it." Maria tried to pull away from you, but you held her in place—not enough to hurt her, but enough to keep her from running away.

"Tell me, please." You moved your hand to hers and pulled her to her feet. She protested when you told her to sit on your lap, but you held her in place. "Tell me you have the same thoughts I do," you ran your hands up and down her sides and enjoyed the shiver that you felt. "Because I get dirty thoughts about you. They get worse when I'm without you. Are you thinking of them as well?" Instead of answering, she trailed her finger over your lips and down your chest. You weren't sure where this newfound confidence came from. You were leaving, and she was Natasha's; the ring on her finger still confirmed that. "I shouldn't think the things I'm thinking," you admitted. Finally, she locked eyes with yours.

"How long?" She asked. It was a simple question, but still, you hesitated.

"Far too long," she chuckled, shaking her head.

"The more that I push them away. The more that you're stuck in my brain." It was all you needed to hear. You twisted your hand in her brunette hair and kissed her. The kiss was messy and frantic, and Maria's soft sigh only spurred you on more. She matched the intensity of the kiss, but the quiet voice in the back of your head told you this was wrong. She was engaged. Even though her fiance was cheating, her loyalty was to her. You ended the kiss. "Why did you stop?" Maria asked. Her chest was heaving, and a slight blush dusted across her cheeks.

"I don't want to stop," you whispered. Your eyes flickered to the ring on her finger. "You aren't mine." She looked at her ring. Immediately, she took it off and placed it on the table next to the bullet.

"I'm not hers," she said. "Our relationship was always to forge a better relationship between the NYPD and the Black Widows. I've known that from the beginning. If Natasha wants Wanda, then I want you. I always have." There were 101 questions that danced around in your head but died on your tongue due to how she looked at you. Her pupils were blown out, and the color of her eyes was gone. She wanted you. All of your hesitations vanished.

Ignoring the pain from your injury, you picked her up and carried her to your bed. You gently placed her down and quickly covered her body with yours. "Tell me," you whispered, kissing her neck. Her hands grabbed onto your shoulders. "Tell me your mine." You bite down and soothe the spot with your tongue.

"I'm yours," she moaned. Her hand went to the back of your head and forced your lips together. "Tell me your mine."

"I'm yours," you said. "Always have been and always will be."

*

"Take me with you," she lay in your bed, wrapped in your blankets as you were in the bathroom. You wondered when this conversation was going to happen. With a sigh, you joined her back in bed and dragged the sheet over you. You laid on your side to face her.

"I don't even know where I'm going."

"I don't care," she said, taking your hand. "I'm safer with you than with anyone else."

"What about Fury?" You questioned. "You wouldn't leave him, and I wouldn't let you." Her silence was enough of an answer for you. You kissed her hand.

"You are going to leave before an all-out turf war breaks out." God, she was more perceptive than you gave her credit for.

"I can't stop it from happening."

"No, you can't," she smiled. "But you can end it quicker and save lives. People listen to you," you played with her now bare ring finger. You dreamed of putting a ring on it one day. "I always believed Natasha wasted your potential. You are a leader, not a guard dog." All of your life, you've been a follower. You followed your father when he left your mom. You followed your old crew into a death trap. You blindly followed every order Natasha gave you.

"Help me then," you told her. She seemed surprised by your request. "You are more than a pretty little to hold on my arm." Maria was barely allowed in meetings when she was; she was ordered to stay quiet and sit by Natasha's side.

"Do you not think I'm pretty?" She teased. Your eyes widened. Laughing, Maria pushed you onto your back and rested her chin on your chest. "I'm teasing. Of course, I'll help. I think we make a good team." If she believed in you, then that's all you needed.

"Let's plan to save the city tomorrow," you rubbed your eyes with the back of your hand. "I'm tired." She smiled and kissed your lips softly. "Are you staying?"

"I am," she got comfortable with your arms around her. "Sleep, baby. The city can wait one more day."

[the-jewel-catalogue]

Queen Elizabeth's Engagement Ring

Prince Philip designed the square-cut diamond engagement ring with jewellers Philip Antrobus Ltd.

The ring is a platinum ring set with eleven diamonds, a 3 carat round solitaire and five smaller stones set on each shoulder. The diamond's used were from his mother's tiara.

Crafted from platinum, the ring is set with eleven diamonds in total, including five smaller stones set on each shoulder. A design like this isn’t seen often, it’s very unique. 

[wardensantoineandevka]

The cast is finally making their London appearance, and the Nein are back! It's... actually really wild. I don't have the space here to be wistful because we have a LOT to get to here on bingo this week.

You can grab your own card at this BingoBaker link. The call list is 48 items long, all of which are listed below the cut—there's information about potentially adding more and when I will lock this call list below, but first, some notes:

"other item taken from Trent" is for any update on who has the Ring of Warding, the Rod of Absorption, or the Mantle of Spell Resistance. Naming these items explicitly did not fit well into a square. The Ring of Telepathy does NOT count, since we already know Caleb took that.

Appearances over Scrying or a vision do count. Sending is not working, but Sending also would have counted.

If a character is listed as just a mention but they appear, the square is legal.

"other multiclass" is if any member of the Nein who is not Fjord or Veth has multiclassed.

In the event that the Nein is at least level 19, "new feat used" is legal only if we absolutely know what the feat IS. Deducing they have one by their stats does not count.

"Counterspell against Counterspell" does not need to succeed.

Unless otherwise stated, a listed spell or ability does not need to succeed, i.e. the only square that needs a success to be legal is "successful Counterspell".

"Fjord short-range teleport" is under his own power. Him being taken along with someone else's short-range teleport, i.e. Dimension Door, does not count. His Arcane Gate does count.

There is a chance I will add things before the live show starts. The call list will be locked at 6:30pm BST / 1:30pm ET / 10:30am PT. If I add anything, I will make a post about it. If you wish to play with any added squares, you can refresh your bingo card if you're playing digitally (though, remember phone etiquette!); if you are playing with a printed sheet, don't worry about it. (Also, to answer in advance because this is queued for 5am ET, if you want to print these as handouts, I don't mind. Just don't litter.)

I cannot answer questions about what is legal until the broadcast on Thursday evening. I also ask that you NOT send me spoilers; I am happy to see your bingos and almost bingos, but please wait until the broadcast finishes. I CAN clarify what a square means though.

I will be reposting this on Thursday afternoon exactly as it is here, altered only to include any squares I hypothetically added, but otherwise it will be identical to this one.

Good luck, have fun, and I'm so jealous.

new magic item

Fjord's ship named

Yasha Sending

Beau and Caleb random teleport drop

Ludinus simulacrum

Desirat

sealing unsealed danger

Assembly politics

Sprinkle status

PC couple married or engaged

Rexxentrum

somewhere in the Coast

somewhere in the Greying Wildlands

elsewhere in Wildemount

animated opening change

Jester's paints

Cape of the Mountebank

other item taken from Trent

Artagan appearance

Astrid appearance

Essek appearance

Oliver Schreiber appearance

Luc or Yeza mention

Marion mention

Yussa mention

Ryn mention

level 20

less than level 20

Fjord: warlock 13

Fjord: paladin 7

Fjord: over warlock 13

Fjord: less than paladin 7

Veth: over wizard 1

other multiclass

new feat used

new spell

dunamancy spell

Commune

Counterspell against Counterspell

successful Counterspell

Polymorph or Shapechange

Sending attempt

Fjord short-range teleport

Divine Intervention

Divine Smite

Fjord Channel Divinity

Stunning Strike

Zealous Presence

[guess-my-next-obsession]

Hi!! I love elementary!!❤️ I have an idea for a Drabble if you don’t mind but no pressure!! I was thinking about a scene where Joel and Sarah and perhaps Tommy too help Joel go ring shopping for reader 🥰 thank you!!

The Perfect Fit

pairing: pre-outbreak!joel x f!reader (Elementary-verse)

rating: F (just some engagement ring shopping cuteness with Joel and Sarah

wc: <500

series masterlist | joel masterlist

“No, no, no—“ Sarah shook her head and kissed her teeth as he father pointed out some gaudy ring with a heart-shaped stone as the focal point. “Do you look at that and seriously think of her? An elementary school teacher? Who’s favorite thing to do beside read Victorian era romance novels is to sit at home with us and devour a pizza? Come on, dad, be realistic.”

“My god—“ Joel chuckled at his daughters harsh but correct rejection. “You ain’t holdin’ anythin’ back today, are you? I’m startin’ to think I’ll never find a ring that satisfies you.”

“Dad, you’re paying thousands and thousands of dollars for this one piece of jewelry that she will wear until she dies,” she spoke plainly, as if she had no time for funny business. “It has to be perfect. Not for me or for anyone else—for her.”

“Well,” he sighed and kissed his teeth. “I don’t have an eye for all this like you.”

“Just—“ she sighed, attempting to remain patient with her father but they’d been at this for days now, going to countless ring shops to try and find the right one. She’d pointed out so many along the way that could be a good fit, but Joel felt too uncertain about all of them, claiming they weren’t good enough to deserve a spot on her finger. “What do you think of when you think of her?”

“Summer,” he replied, a soft smile growing on his face as her image appeared in his mind. He always imagines her backlit, the summer sun behind her giving her a halo of golden light. “Gold, I guess.”

“See, that’s good!” Sarah patted his back before walking him away from the silver engagement rings and over to some gold ones. “What else?”

“I don’t know, she’s…soft. Subtle, but stands out in any room—maybe that’s just me always lookin’ for her,” he spoke with a soft flush, chuckling at himself.

“So, maybe a round stone—oval, even?” Sarah walked him over to some more rounded cuts of diamonds rather than the square, princess cut ones they’d been looking at. “Now this…this is her.”

“You know what,” he chuckled, looking into the glass display. “I think you’re right. This…is her. That one in particular—“ He pointed to a gold ring with an oval stone in the center, two smaller diamonds on either side of it, spaced out on the band. “I like that one a lot.”

“You know what? So do I,” Sarah beamed, meeting her father’s eye. The pair grinned at each other for a beat before Joel sucked in a deep breath.

“I think you did it,” he announced.

“No, I just guided you,” she reminded. “She’s gonna love it, dad.”

“For three thousand bucks? I sure hope so.”

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[miazims]

Here is my CC townie makeover of Bella Goth.

CC links under the cut.

Hair: IT GIRL COLLECTION - IMVIKAI & DAYLIFESIMS COLLAB | Patreon

Necklace: CxS Pretty Brutal (9 items) | Patreon

Eyeshadow: The Sims Resource - Romm Eyeshadow

Eyeliner: The SLASHER collection | greenllamas | Patreon

Blush: The Sims Resource - #MaxisMatch Blush | N1

Lipstick: the jason collection. | Patreon

Dress: The Sims Resource - Celia Dress.

Ring: The Sims Resource - Bezel Cathedral Setting Diamond Engagement Ring

Nails: The Sims Resource - Rounded Square Medium Splatter Nails

Stockings: The Sims Resource - Stockings 07

Shoes: 3rd Date Collection - Aurora Heels | Patreon

[jazzy-art-time]

Shining Ring Markings

Mini basic "guideline" to markings that appear on those within the Shining Ring of Jarbline City.

Inner city dwellers who sparkle and shine unlike any other! Known for their persistent attitudes and self absorbed  self confidence! [ plain text / +Bonus words below the cut ]

SHINING RING MARKINGS Members of the Shining Ring within Jarbline City are known for their token sparkle and shine. The token markings of a Shining Ring dweller is their sparkle markings. PRIMARY MARKING STYLES Every citizen within this ring has at least ONE token sparkle marking. Can range from general sparkles, stars or twinkle like markings! At least one of these markings appear rather large somewhere on their bodies Bonus: The bigger markings generally appear on faces, backs or tails. Although they can appear other places, these are the most common placements. EXTRA SPARKLES Extra sparkles aren't always seen. But most tend to have extra shines or sparkles somewhere on their body or hair shine. The closer to the Inner Ring within the Shining area, the more sparkles they will have. Bonus: These are just bonus markings and do not always have to appear or match like the primary markings. Bonus fun or can be used as hair shine etc etc. PIXEL SHINES: Unique Ring Effect Shining Ring Members who live near the edge more towards the Mending Ring, appear to have more "pixel" type sparkles. The markings appear more square or rectangular or like "band aids" on the body. Bonus: The reasoning for this shape is due to the Mending Rings intense focus on technology, science and medical related things! Thus giving the more "pixel" type effect. As well as appearing like "band aids" to reference the more medical aspects. BUBBLE SHINES: Unique Ring Effect Shining Ring Members who live near the edge more towards the Perception Ring, appear to have more "bubble" type sparkles. The markings appear more like circles or various bubble patterns. Bonus: The reasoning for this shape is due to two things: One is being the shared neutral beach that the two Rings have to share. Beach = bubbles, it's quirky. As well as the border between the two rings is high violence due to turf wars, so the "bubbles" are also mimicking bullet holes! Less quirky, edgy! "Kisses and Hugs" "Kisses and Hugs" are strange markings that sometimes appear on Sparkling Ring members. General myths say these markings can be a inner telling of the person's desires. X's are seen as kisses, signs of lust and desire. O's are seen as hugs, signs of comfort and tenderness. Markings ending on a X means the person values sex more Markings ending on a O means the person values love more. But that is just a myth spread around it's residents. Also said that if you end a XOXO in a signature with a specific letter, it means the same thing.... but again just a silly ring myth! It probably doesn't actually apply... Probably! Bonus: If the markings are on the face (One cheek/finishing on the other), the other cheek is mirrored and not a actual continuation. EX: Alaxia's starts as XO on one side and are mirrored as OX on the other side. EFFECTS WITHIN THE MOONLIGHT Shining Ring Members shine their brightest in moonlight.. literally! In direct moonlight, the sparkle markings shine and twinkle, just like stars in the sky! The more full the moon, the brighter they shine! Although this has come to be seen as a hassle to most, so various makeup has been in development to help cover up this shine. Bonus: Shining Ring members who engage in the Farefell VS Hend turf wars, tend to attack from above. Both used as a sneaky tactic but also because their shining markings at night make them blend into the sky when looked up at from below. -- -- -- -- -- [ Perception Ring Markings ] [ Mending Ring Markings ] [ Marking Shifting ] [ Multi Markings ] [ +Other ] What I got for now, at least a basis written down that I can copy and paste into toyhouse world nyeheheh

[raudart]

Please go on a rant about the crown, I'd love to hear it

ok here goes!!!

so part of my job is to design custom engagement rings for people and i get to work with diamonds and gemstones on a daily basis, hence the desire to redesign the g1 crown to better fit with prime starscream's design.

generally speaking i am not a fan of the g1 crown now that i know what i'm doing when it comes to jewelry like what is going on???

assuming that is a coffin cut? baguette accents on either side around the rim and barrels(?) for the tips of each point?

for the stones i decided to go with garnet as opposed to rubies and red diamonds simply because garnets are my favorite gemstone. i prefer the rich, dark shades and thought the deeper red would work well with the lighting i had already started working on when i began work on coloring the gemstone facets.

the center stone had to be a marquise cut because i wanted something that would mimic his red crest (due to the fact that it would be mostly covered) and to match the baguette accent stones on either side of the g1 crown i chose step cut squares in a channel setting. the three points at the tops of the crown are accented with trillions.

(yes i did painstakingly draw every single visible facet by hand because i didn't realize i could just use the radial symmetry tool to get the same result smh)

coloring gold is an ongoing learning experience but i am pretty happy with how it turned out on this piece (though looking back on it i would have gone darker with the shading in some areas). each of the stones has filed prongs (6 on the marquise for the appropriate amount of security) to match starscream's sharp points. the forks and negative spaces are to keep the design more tiara-like rather than one solid gold dome, accentuating the shapes of his helm rather than hiding them. i pull a lot of inspiration from design elements i see in rings i handle every day and thought this piece would be a good way to play around with that.

thank you so much for asking!!! hope you enjoy my info dump!!!

[lamaisongaga]

LADY GAGA IN CELINE COUTURE FOR “JOKER: FOLIE À DEUX” UK PREMIERE

Lady Gaga turned heads at the "Joker: Folie à Deux" UK premiere at Cineworld Leicester Square, proving once again that no one does high fashion drama quite like her.

Styling by Tom Eerebout and Sandra Amador, respectively.

Dressed in a custom Celine by Hedi Slimane couture creation, she delivered a masterclass in theatrical elegance. The eye-catching ensemble featured a fierce red double satin faille bolero jacket with exaggerated, puffed shoulders—a bold nod to vintage power dressing—while the striking asymmetrical mermaid gown that cascaded into sculptural folds exuded pure red-carpet grandeur.

Every detail of this look was meticulously chosen to command attention, from the razor-sharp tailoring to the luxurious silk fabric that practically glistened under the flashing lights. The vibrant red palette perfectly echoed the intensity of Joker, setting the tone for the evening with a nod to the film’s audacious spirit.

Let's get to the jewelry!

Of course, she was decked in diamonds provided by Tiffany & Co.

Taken from their 2024 Blue Book titled "Céleste", these Flames platinum and yellow-gold earrings feature citrine diamonds in a brilliant cut.

Gaga elevated her already show-stopping jacket with a stunning Jean Schlumberger for Bird on a Rock brooch. Known for its intricate design and whimsical charm, the brooch featured a glimmering bird perched atop a deep red spessartine of 20-plus carats, symbolizing both elegance and playfulness.

The bird itself, set in diamonds and accented with gold detailing, perches lightly yet confidently on the large, oval-cut ruby, making this piece a masterpiece of both artistry and craftsmanship. Schlumberger, famed for his fantastical designs, created the brooch in the 1950s, and it has since become a signature piece in the High Jewelry collection.

Also from from the 2024 "Céleste" Blue Book — this uuuuultra insane Apollo platinum, yellow-gold, pavé diamonds and yellow diamonds bangle inspired by original Schlumberger designs.

The last Tiffany item, apart from her engagement ring, is this Schlumberger Vigne 18k gold and platinum with marquise diamonds ring ($34,300).

The Pleaser Xtreme-1020 black faux leather platform booties completed the look.

For the short and black nails, Miho used the Aprés Gel Couleur in "Birnam Wood". Both the base and top coats are by Presto.

[angel-in-shibari]

Lune and Dawn

Episode 2: Teacher's Pet "I must admit, searching petplay porn in my class during our lesson on Pavlov is honestly quite pathetic" ~~~~~~~~~~

Dawn Summers knocked on the door of the professor's office. Dr Lune Sinclair was a brilliant psychology professor, and their class was engaging and challenging. Unfortunately, Dawn was falling behind in her studies and her GPA was slipping. 

“You wanted to see me, Dr Sinclair?” Dawn was nervous. She had never spoken with one of her professors outside of class. 

“Yes, Miss Summers. Please come in and take a seat.” Their voice was smooth and calming, not at all like their loud enthusiasm they had in the lecture hall. 

Dawn entered the small office and looked around. The antique wooden desk was covered in papers, trophies, a laptop and a desktop computer. On the dark brown walls of the room were many accomplishments, such as degrees and awards and certifications. Dr Sinclair was a highly decorated professor, and they took immense pride in their work. 

Behind the professor was a large window. The dark sky was dimly lit by the lights of a few dorms. Dawn wondered why her professor had requested they meet so late. It was already past 7, and the December air was frigid. Dawn dreaded walking back to her dorm. She prayed it wouldn't start snowing before her meeting was finished. 

In the window, Dawn caught a glimpse of something she couldn't quite understand at first. A transparent square floating just above the trees. Until suddenly it made sense; it was the reflection of Dr Sinclair’s computer screen. Although it was difficult to make out, she could see the silhouette of a woman's body. Dawn quickly tried to ignore it and focus on her meeting with her professor. 

“Good evening, Dr Sinclair.” 

“Good evening to you, Miss Summers. Thank you for coming so late. I wanted to discuss your grade in my class. I’m very disappointed with your recent performance. Your paper on classical conditioning was… let’s just say it was underwhelming”

Their words cut like glass. Although they spoke softly and calmly, Dawn felt like they were brerating and attacking her for her performance. She had put so much time into that paper. To be told it was “underwhelming” was heartbreaking

“I’m very sorry, professor,” Dawn apologized. “If you want me to redo it, I can have a new version by-”

“No, no, that won’t be necessary,” Dr Sinclair interrupted. “You already disappointed me once, I would hate for it to happen again. I actually have an alternative project, just for you. Think of it as… extra credit.”

Dawn shifted slightly in her seat. She was nervous, but willing to accept anything to bring her grade up. She nodded.

“Wonderful!” the professor continued, “I think you’ll find a hands-on experiment much more engaging than a boring research paper. Although you may be apprehensive at first, I’m certain you’ll come to respect my… unconventional methods”

The psychology professor opened a drawer in their desk and pulled out a small plastic object with a single button. Dawn was confused.

“I’m sorry Doctor, but is that a training clicker? For, like, dogs?”

“Right you are, my young pupil. As you know, classical conditioning was founded by Ivan Pavlov. If you had been paying attention in class, you’d know he trained dogs by repeatedly ringing a bell as they received food. Eventually they’d salivate at the ring of the bell even with no food present.”

“Yes, sir. I’m well aware of Pavlov. But what does this have to do with a clicker? Is it the same sort of conditioning?”

“Yes, you’re correct. But in our experiment, we won’t be using dogs. We’ll be using you”

“W-what? Fucking… excuse me?!” Dawn was shocked. Was her professor seriously about to try and treat her like a dog?

“Let me rephrase myself. I intend to test the effectiveness of classical conditioning when applied to helping improve one’s focus and attention. And you seem like the perfect test subject”

“You have got to be joking. Are you seriously gonna be treating me like a fucking dog?”

“Watch your language, young lady!” Dr Sinclair raised her voice. But Dawn didn’t back down.

“What, are you gonna make me wear a dog collar, too?”

“I mean, if that would help with your training, I’m more than happy to accommodate.”

“Forget this shit! You’re insane!” Dawn got up and started towards the door

“Miss Summers, I urge you to reconsider. I’m sure you’d accept failing my class, but I doubt you’d want your entire internet browsing data revealed to the entire campus.”

Dawn froze in her tracks. She turned back and saw the professor turn the computer screen, no longer facing the window, but now towards her. She could clearly see a figure of a nude woman on all fours wearing nothing but a dog collar and pup mask. Dawn knew she had seen that exact image before. She had looked it up on her phone in class last week. 

“H-how? How did you get that?”

They tapped a key on their keyboard and the tab switched, this time showing another one of Dawn's depraved search results

“I have my ways. I must admit, searching petplay porn in my class during our lesson on Pavlov is honestly quite pathetic.”

Dawn’s face turned bright red. This was beyond embarrassing for her. 

“P-please don’t tell anyone I was looking at that!” 

“Of course not, dear. It’ll be our little secret. Just as long as you listen to me and do as I say. Please, take a seat. I want to begin our experiment as soon as possible”

Dawn did as they instructed, and her professor cleared their desk of everything except a clipboard, pen, and the clicker.

“Thank you, Dawn. I want you to trust me. As long as we’re in my office, we’re on a first name basis. I want you to feel safe and comfortable. I’m not your professor right now, but a friend.”

“You want me to call you Lune? Not Dr Sinclair?”

“I mean, I can tell you’ve never taken French by your pronunciation. But yes, please call me Lune”

Dawn nodded, slightly embarrassed. The whole situation was incredibly humiliating. She had no idea how it could possibly get any worse.

Lune spoke again. “Aww, the way you blush is just adorable.”

“Can we please just get this over with?” Dawn blurted at them. 

“My my.. So feisty. Yes, dear let us get started. First, a quick recap. Tell me what you remember about classical conditioning.”

Dawn tried to remember what she heard when half-paying-attention in class. “Uh… so there’s the unconditioned stimulus which causes the unconditioned response. But if you associate the unconditioned stimulus with another conditioned stimulus enough, eventually the subject reacts to the conditioned stimulus with the same response.”

“Look at you. So smart…”  Lune spoke softly and sweetly, before quickly shifting her tone. “Despite being such a pervert in my class and never paying attention.”

“Uh.. ma’am?” Dawn inquired.

“What is it, darling?”

“So I know that the clicker is the conditioned stimulus and the desired response I guess would be better focus and attention. But… what would the unconditioned stimulus be? Like, what would you get me to associate the clicker with?”

“Oh, I’m so glad you asked,” Lune said with a sadistic smile. They reached into their drawer again and pulled out another small pink device. They placed it on the table. “Do you know what this is?” They asked.

Dawn just stared at the pink toy, completely frozen. Of course she knew what it was. But she couldn’t admit that to her professor. A mix of contradicting emotions and thoughts raced through her head, completely preventing her from acting. Should she lie to Lune? No, they’d probably know if she was lying. In fact, hadn’t she looked up this exact device on an online shopping website the other week? If Lune had her search history, they would already know that she knew what it was. There was no point in lying. Dawn was completely trapped.

“I-its… uh… a vibrator. One you can control with your phone.” 

“Wonderful. I was expecting you would lie and say you had no idea what it was. But I'm glad you realized that was a pointless move. Now, to answer your question, this is going to be the unconditioned stimulus. I’ll turn the vibrator on at the same time as I click, and eventually you’ll associate pleasure with the sound of a click. Do you understand? Is that okay with you?”

Dawn sunk into the chair. Felt like she was about to die of embarrassment. She could hardly even look Lune in the eyes. “If I say no, you’ll leak my search history. This isn’t fair!”

“Oh, no. I’m sorry. I lied about that to get you to stay. I would never do such a thing. You have a choice, and either way your secret is safe with me. You can leave right now and we can both forget everything about this evening. However, I do want to remind you that you are failing this class. Looking at your record, you already have enough missed credits. One more failed class and you’ll probably be kicked out of school. I’d hate for you to ruin your life over something like this. I want to help you, dear. But this is your choice to make”

Dawn looked up at Lune. They had a fiery hunger in their eyes. But the rest of their face was calm and gentle and sympathetic. Dawn was extremely flustered. Her face was a wonderful shade of crimson. Being treated like a dog and experimented on by her professor was absolutely humiliating. But also… kind of hot…

“Do you promise you won’t tell anyone else? Not about my search history and not about what we do tonight?” Dawn was furious, but she knew what choice she had to make.

“Not a soul. I swear,” Lune promised.

After a moment's hesitation, Dawn sighed “Fine. Give me the vibe.” and grabbed the pink toy off the desk. “And don’t look!” she demanded as she turned around and lifted the front of her skirt.

Lune swiveled in their chair. Dawn fixed the small bullet vibe inside her panties, making sure it was comfortable. She began to regret her decision, but took a deep breath and pulled her tights back up and lowered her skirt.

“Okay, I’m ready.” Dawn said irately. She muttered under her breath how stupid this whole thing was, but Lune couldn’t hear her.

“Perfect” Lune shivered with anticipation. They were way too excited for this. “Now take a seat. I’m going to use the clicker a couple times on its own. I want you to tell me if you feel anything.”

Dawn nodded. She closed her eyes and listened. /click/ … /click/ … /click/ … 

“I felt nothing. It was just a clicking noise.” 

“That’s to be expected, dear. Right now it’s just the neutral stimulus. Now, let's try just the vibrator.” Lune tapped a button on their phone. And immediately the toy buzzed. 

Dawn sharply inhaled and her legs wiggled involuntarily. The pleasure rushed through her body like a tidal wave. The feeling of being pleasured by someone else without them even touching you was a wonderful new sensation to Dawn. And it was over far too quick. After two seconds, Lune released the button and the buzzing stopped.

“How was that?” Lune asked. 

Dawn opened her eyes, and readjusted herself in the chair. “Uh… it was alright. Thank you.”

“So, are we ready to continue? I want to combine the vibe and clicker together.” 

Dawn nodded, and Lune smiled sweetly. They were going to have so much fun with this experiment of theirs.

Before Dawn even had a chance to prepare herself, Lune pressed the clicker, and then the button on their phone a moment later.

/click/

Just after she heard the noise, the toy buzzed for an instant, causing her legs to shake slightly. She took a breath and tried to recompose herself. But Lune wasn’t about to give her a break

/click/

Again, the vibration stimulated her body. Without realizing it, Dawn began to subconsciously associate the sound of the clicker with the stimulation from the vibrator.

/click/

As they tapped the button on their phone, Professor Sinclair began their usual classroom lecture.

“I’m performing what’s called delayed conditioning. I’m activating the vibe just after the clicker. A short break in between the two causes a stronger association. If I instead pressed the clicker and activated the vibe at the exact same time, called simultaneous conditioning, there would be very little or even no conditioned response.”

/click/

“Uh huh… yeah… makes sense.” Dawn could hardly focus on her professor’s words. 

/click/

Dawn couldn’t contain herself. Of course, she was nowhere close to coming. But the sensation was certainly arousing. Her excitement was building more and more, until…

/click/

Dawn moaned, before quickly covering her mouth in embarrassment. 

“Oh wow! I didn’t think this was such a turn on for you.” Lune laughed. “Do you want to know the best part? I didn’t even activate the vibrator that last time. That was your conditioned response.”

Dawn looked up at Lune, dumbfounded by the reveal. The sight of her face was too adorable for Lune to not torment just a bit more.

/click/

Dawn moaned again, this time noticing the lack of stimulation down below.

“Look at you. Moaning to the sound of a training clicker. It’s just precious.”

/click/

“mmm… Fuck! Stop!” Dawn begged.

“Aww, darling, I’m not doing anything. It’s you who’s getting turned on by a clicker.”

/click/

“But I think we’ve both had enough fun for tonight. I should send you on your way before I get you even more worked up.”

Dawn tried to gather her composure and readjust herself.

“M-my extra credit?” she asked, almost incoherently.

“Taken care of. If you do well on the finals, you’ll most certainly pass this class. Thank you for your help with my little experiment. You’re fine to leave.”

“Uh… thank you, Dr Sinclair.” Dawn quickly rushed out of Lune’s office before they could change their mind. So quickly did she leave, that she completely forgot about the small vibrator still in her panties.

Maybe Lune would torment Dawn just a bit more. They could turn up the vibration slightly as she walked, and play with her a bit longer. At least until she was out of range of her phone that is.

No, that would be too mean. After all, Dawn would be tormented much more during tomorrow’s lecture, when she discovered that the remote Dr Sinclair used to change slides made the exact same sound as the clicker.

[miz-blue]

Hazbin Hotel fanfic/fanart: Desperate Maneuvers (part 1 of 4?)

Title: Desperate Maneuvers (part 1 of 4?)

Fandom: Hazbin Hotel

Rating: PG-13

Pairing(s): Alastor/Vox

Summary: (Regency AU) The once prestigious LeClaire family has of late fallen on trying times. So trying, as it happens, that the family's eldest son, Lord Alastor, begrudgingly agrees to enter into an arranged marriage with a wealthy commoner, a Mr. Voxley Smythe.

Notes: Part 1 of this fic was written for the Bapple's Orchard discord server's regency era AU collab, Pride Ring and Prejudice. (Server run by @bapple117.) This was originally supposed to be a contained scene, but I think it'll have two more parts plus an epilogue. If you find this post through a reblog, then check back to the original post which I will update with links as the other parts are finished. The story is also on AO3 too if you'd rather follow there.

This fic is a Regency AU, more or less. However, my regency knowledge is rather rusty, and also the setting is like some weird mash-up of canon and regency England. i.e. All the characters are still demons, and there's at least a little magic. And yes, Vox still has a TV head; it is what it is. Also, also same-sex marriage is totally fine, lol; the drama and angst come from classism and the characters being emotionally constipated.

A brief note on ages, Alastor is 30, and Vox is 28.

Fic is under the cut, and I also drew the end scene of part 1.

.*.*.*.*.*.*.*.*.*.*.*.*.*.*.*.

"Aunt Rosie, this is degrading," Alastor protested softly, still seated on the padded leather bench of the coach. "I have no wish to be a public spectacle." He could hear the distant sounds of people as well as the faintest strains of music, and Alastor, previously inured to his fate, now found himself possessed of a certain anxiety, fluffy ears pinned back against his head.

His aunt sighed, expression sympathetic but strained. "Alastor, dearest, I need you to step down from this carriage. Right now." Rosie was already on the ground having been assisted by a footman. "The other coaches need to come through, and you are holding up the line."

Alastor took a shaky breath to steady his nerves before sliding closer to the door, but he showed no sign of exiting. Ever a font of patience, his long suffering aunt gentled her tone. "Alastor, for me, please, come out. Why, I hardly recognize anyone here so I doubt they'll recognize us!" It was such a baldfaced lie, unbefitting of any lady but especially one of Rosie's status. However, the falsehood did give Alastor enough momentary hope that when Rosie extended her hand to her only nephew's elbow, he permitted her to carefully but insistently tug him from the coach.

In the next moment, Alastor had set foot on the carefully tended gravel pathway to Battlehill Manor. "Good luck, sir," Husk called from the driver's seat, and Alastor spared him a tight nod before the cat demon was obliged to drive on. Husk was also Alastor's valet and sometimes butler--the LeClaires struggled to keep staff ever since the incident seven years ago.

Now truly abandoned to the capricious whims of fate, Alastor squared his shoulders and faced the stately manor ahead of them. It would seem there was no way out but through. Composing himself as best he could, Alastor offered his arm to his aunt who graciously accepted, allowing him to lead them to the manor entrance even though they both knew the way. The Carmines were distant cousins so Alastor had visited their estate several times as a child, though no invitation had been extended for some time. No, even tonight's festive occasion had less to do with Alastor and more to do with his intended husband, a certain Mr. Voxley Smythe. The two men were to meet tonight and announce their engagement. Lady Carmine was graciously hosting the ball on Voxley's behalf since he had no land or title of his own. What he did have, apparently, was a very lucrative business deal with the Carmines.

Lady Carmilla herself was there to greet them in the foyer. "Lord Alastor, Lady Rosie," she nodded respectfully to them both. "A pleasure to see you as always."

Another unnecessary falsehood. Alastor smiled through it, greeting her in kind. "We must kindly thank you again for your assistance in this matter and apologize for any trouble it may have caused."

She smiled politely back. "No trouble at all, Lord Alastor. Indeed, all the guests seem to be in high spirits."

The three demons made pleasant enough small talk for a few minutes before Rosie inquired after Alastor's betrothed. "Has Mr. Smythe arrive yet by chance?"

"No, alas, he is late," Carmilla replied with the faintest whiff of irritation. "Some important business or other. He is often engaged in work."

"Ah, that is quite alright then," Rosie said sweetly. "We'll go in, shall we? We ought not keep you from your other guests."

Carmilla stepped aside so that the two aristocrats might step past her. "Yes, please enjoy yourselves. I believe the dancing has already begun."

Alastor and Rosie both expressed their delight again before stepping into the hall proper. As soon as Carmilla was sufficiently far away, Alastor immediately set his sights to criticisms.

"He isn't even here yet? I cannot believe my situation has come to this," Alastor whispered, sotto voce. He almost needn't have bothered. Every soul around the two LeClaires was giving them a wide berth as if they were stricken with some loathsome contagion.

"Now Alastor, try to seek out a happy moment or two--for Nifty's sake if not your own. A dance even! Your dear little sister would love to be here. Ah, if she had her way, she'd debut tomorrow, the scamp."

Alastor scowled for only a second before schooling his face back to its proper smile. "Then let Nifty marry; she's the poor soul who actually desires such a union." If Alastor had his way, he would have chosen to never marry at all. After the deaths of his parents, his dowager aunt had resumed the mantle of family head while Alastor had been preoccupied with his school studies. At present, the two demons shared the load--meager as it was now--until such a time as it could be passed to Nifty or her future children.

Regardless of the gravity of their words, Rosie's serene countenance never wavered as the two LeClaires meandered around the outskirts of the party. "Nifty's enthusiasm for matrimony is commendable, but she's yet several years too young, and we are facing financial destitution now. And since that's your fault, dear, I am going to need your help fixing it." Her voice was a calm but ironclad murmur that only Alastor could hear. "Furthermore, Nifty's prospects are hardly ideal. Your present sacrifice may yet wipe some of the stain off our family name."

"How noble of spirit I must be," Alastor quipped dryly.

"Please, Alastor."

Lord, how it pained him to disappoint her. "You actually liked Uncle Franklin," he said sullenly nonetheless.

She laughed with genuine mirth at that. "Your late uncle and I were lucky, dear. Mayhaps you might be too. Stranger things have come to pass."

"Hmm, perhaps." Luck had thus far evaded Alastor, and he rather much doubted that he ought to find it in the arms of some crass lout, but he would soldier on regardless. He did not wish to ruin his aunt's night with needless quarrels.

Rosie walked with him until they had reached a long row of chairs set against the main hall's far wall. A number of guests sat at varying intervals, some catching their breath from dancing and others waiting earnestly to be asked. "Will you be alright here for a bit, Alastor?" Rosie inquired as he took a seat. "Since Mr. Smythe is not yet arrived, I was hoping to catch up with Earl Zestial..."

Ever the dutiful nephew, Alastor kept his forced smile in place and waved her on. "No need to concern yourself with my moods, Aunt Rosie. I suspect none shall endeavor to move me from my seat."

She offered one last rueful smile before disappearing into the slowly growing crowd. Alastor was left to lean against the wall, listen to the music, and try to remain calm. As he suspected, while some in attendance shot him curious or apprehensive looks, no one dared approach him. Alastor cast his eye about too, wondering if he might find his intended before Rosie did--or rather that the other demon would find him. Uncaring of the engagement proceedings, Alastor had no idea what this Voxley looked like and only knew a little of his exploits.

Yes, his soon-to-be husband, Voxley Smythe, some upstart commoner who had made a fortune for himself expanding trade routes for the East India Company before returning to England and making his fortune twice-over in various newfangled factories. And now—like some bloated carrion bird—he had come seeking a nest to roost in and a title to go with it. Of course, what better way to secure said estate and title than to marry for it?

In this rapidly churning industrial age, destabilized aristocrats teetering on the edge of financial insolvency were hardly scarce. Alastor had merely thought his infamous reputation would've kept him off the bargaining table. Either this Voxley didn't know about the rumors concerning Alastor's involvement with the royal family, or more likely, he didn't care. Surely the man could not be so unseemly that only Alastor would have him? In truth, the deer demon did not know. After initially consenting to the written proposal, Alastor had left the matter of negotiations entirely to Rosie.

Fortunately for the LeClaire family, Voxley had no children of his own, and his and Alastor's union would not produce any; thus Nifty would still remain the next in line to inherit what was left of the family's property and good name. Voxley's monetary contributions would keep the LeClaires afloat and replenish their coffers, and in return the man could leverage all the political and social benefits that came with a noble rank. In some manner, it was a relief that Alastor was simply a means to an end, not a desirable aspect himself. A prickly and solitary composer, the young aristocrat had hardly been overburdened with social ties even before his fall from grace. With any luck, Voxley would spend most of his time in London overseeing his various business enterprises and leave Alastor in peace at his ancestral home in the countryside.

Alastor cast a wary look about the large room once more. Zounds, what was taking the man so long? Imagine being late to a party in one's honor; Alastor found it rude and ungentlemanly.

Although…allowing himself a little ungentlemanly moment as well, Alastor at last gave into the desire to be elsewhere. No one stopped him as he slipped out of the spacious drawing room, up a small staircase, and down a side hall towards where he knew a veranda should still be, assuming Carmilla hadn't made any recent renovations to the manor. But no, it was still there.

Alastor sighed, leaning on the thick balcony railing and glancing out over the dark countryside. Every so often the moon would peek out from behind the clouds, bathing well-maintained gardens and the distant woods in a silvery glow. Crickets chirped faintly, and Alastor could hear the dance music from downstairs, the windows having been opened to the cool, spring night air. The young aristocrat drummed his fingers to the beat of a violin solo, feeling the distant echo of his own magical powers but as ever, he was unable to summon them. So lost in thought was Alastor that he scarcely noticed an interloper on his solitude.

"Hey."

Red ears perked up and swiveled, and Alastor's eyes widened at the familiar voice. Turning around, his gaze beheld some strange amalgamation--a ghost of his past decked out like an omen from the future. The Victor Owens now before him was a far cry from the timid, obsequious clockmaker's apprentice that Alastor had for some time befriended whilst studying at Eton. Now Victor moved with easy confidence, walking towards Alastor as if he had every right to do so. More surprisingly was the other demon's clothing. He looked like a proper gentleman now, smartly tailored in the latest fashion of London. Alastor felt vaguely embarrassed for his own expensive but now threadbare suit, but something new had been a bit out of his means at the moment.

Alastor forced himself to incline his head politely which Victor did in kind. "My, but it has been some time since last we spoke." Since last we fought, Alastor thought, remembering their messy parting of ways nearly a decade ago. Though he had seen Victor about town after that day, the two of them had pointedly ignored each other. Then when Alastor had gone from Eton, he had scarcely thought of Victor at all. University studies of music and sorcery at Oxford and later a more...specialized tutelage in Windsor had kept him busy. At least until everything had fallen apart.

"It has been some years, yes." The slightly younger demon came over to the balcony, leaning against it too.

Alastor nodded in acknowledgment, but otherwise he had nothing to say to his former 'friend' and thus allowed the brief conversation to lapse into awkward silence. However, Victor did not quit his presence, and so the two demons stared out into the dark countryside together.

"Are you alright?" Victor inquired after a moment, politely neutral. "You seem a bit...harrowed."

Alastor managed a thin smile. So they would be playing the part of amiable old acquaintances then? Very well. "Alas, I've been better. I am to be engaged, you see." If Victor was moving in more prestigious circles nowadays, then no doubt he was already aware of the general outline of Alastor's situation if not its full extent.

"Usually engagements are happy occurrences…" the other demon prompted, a subtle invitation for Alastor to elaborate.

"Not this one," Alastor obliged, voice laced with an undercurrent of misery. And yet it was perversely satisfying to air his grievances so freely to someone, especially someone like Victor who did not require Alastor to put on airs. "The situation is utterly not of my choosing. Sold off like so much livestock to some repellent stranger."

"Aren't arranged marriages par for the course for your sort?" Victor apparently couldn't help but jibe. "I'm sure he can't be that bad, especially when you don't even know him."

"Oh please, what's to know?" Alastor's clawed fingertips tapped irritably on the glossy marble. "He's a boorish, vulgar social climber. You'd know the sort."

Victor glared at him, gentlemanly facade starting to slip--as Alastor had hoped it might. "Would I now? And is that what you'd say about me too? A disgrace too poor in breeding to be considered for an aristocrat's hand?" Victor glanced shyly away. "For your hand?"

Alastor laughed, finally in better spirits now that he had been presented with such easy prey. "Yes, I see you've come up in the world a bit yourself. Still not over your little flight of fancy for me though, hmm? Well, I certainly wouldn't have married you either way, old pal."

Victor's face flushed angrily. "No, you wouldn't have. You're more the type who keeps his lower class friends like a dirty secret and then discards them to save face."

Alastor felt a twinge of guilt at that but hid it well. "It's not my fault you insisted on reaching above your station, my dear."

The other demon composed himself with some effort. "I have a station now myself," he retorted tersely.

"And money, I'm sure, if your gaudy attire is any indication. All of which is merely like gilding brass. Simply scratch the surface and the cheap base material shows through." Alastor smiled meanly at Victor's hurt expression. Yes, this was why they couldn't be friends--why it didn't pay to befriend anyone from the lower class. Alastor had always wondered if Victor liked him or merely wished to be close to someone of his rank. "Regardless you're too late anyway. As I stated earlier, I am spoken for. Though even if I wasn't, I still wouldn't take up with you."

"Fine, fuck you, Alastor. I see you haven't changed at all in your last seven years as a hermit. Still just a prick with an overinflated ego."

Alastor feigned an offended gasp. "You really are a vile and insignificant little man," he replied with a pitying laugh. "Now leave me be. A proper gentleman should know when his presence is undesirable." The aristocrat made a vague shooing gesture to which Victor offered a far more vulgar gesture of his own before storming off back into the manor.

Once his former companion had departed, Alastor slumped back against the balcony railing with a sigh. Where he should have felt satisfied amusement, there was only cloying melancholy. The crickets and the violins no longer offered any solace, but returning to the party would be far worse. In truth, Alastor had been so long out of public that the presence of so many people now unexpectedly grated upon his nerves, and he wished only to return home to sweet sepulchral silence or perhaps the playing of his own hands upon his piano. Alas, like many things Alastor desired, it was not to be. At least sequestered here on the veranda he would not need to endure so many eyes upon his person.

However, Alastor was scarcely left alone for another ten minutes before Rosie came looking for him, heels clicking smartly on the tiled floor. "Alastor! There you are! Honestly now, I had to ask several servants before one knew where you'd gone." She began smoothing out his cravat and jacket, clucking at him like a mother hen.

"I was just taking some air," Alastor said with a sigh, letting her fuss over him. He would never admit it, but the motherly attention was very soothing.

"Avoiding the party, yes, I'm aware," Rosie replied, not fooled in the slightest. "Mr. Smythe has presently arrived though so if you would please come back to the main hall, you may meet him properly."

Alastor's stomached flipped unpleasantly, but he kept his smile affixed to his face. "Oh? Has his highness finally deigned to grace us with his presence?"

Rosie hustled them both back towards the ball as quickly as she could without appearing improper. "Now, Alastor, you've agreed to this matter already. Please try not to immediately offend the poor man."

"Emphasis on 'poor'," Alastor replied caustically, making his aunt sigh in exasperation.

The two aristocrats rejoined the main event, Alastor obligingly offering Rosie his arm again as she led them through the room. There were a number of faces about them that Alastor did not recognize, and he couldn't help but wonder which unfortunate soul he was to be fobbed off to.

They were near the curving, elegant main staircase when Rosie finally appeared to set eyes on the man she was looking for. "Ah, here we are." She turned Alastor around before stepping to the side. Gesturing to the demon coming down the stairs towards them, she said, "Alastor, this is Voxley Smythe."

Victor stopped on the second step from the bottom, smiling down at them. "Just 'Vox' is fine," he said.

Alastor felt his own smile grow painfully tight. Fuck him indeed, apparently.

tbc...

[labgrown-diamond-ring]

Why Choose a Cushion Cut Lab Grown Diamond Engagement Ring?

When it comes to engagement rings, the choices are vast, yet one trend is capturing the attention of modern couples: Cushion Cut Lab-Grown Diamond Rings. Whether you're drawn to the symbolic beauty of a three-stone setting or the timeless elegance of a solitaire, cushion cut diamonds offer a perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and sustainability. Here’s why these rings are becoming a popular choice for those embarking on a lifelong journey of love.

The Unique Charm of Cushion Cut Diamonds

Cushion cut diamonds, known for their rounded corners and larger facets, have a distinct vintage appeal that dates back over a century. Often described as a cross between a round and a square shape, the cushion cut is versatile and elegant. It’s a design that beautifully balances the old and the new, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate both classic and contemporary styles.

The larger facets of a cushion cut diamond enhance its brilliance and create a soft, romantic glow. This cut is perfect for showcasing the diamond’s clarity and luster, making it a favorite among those who seek a ring with both visual appeal and historical significance.

Lab-Grown Diamonds: A Sustainable and Ethical Choice

Lab-grown diamonds have revolutionized the jewelry industry by offering a sustainable and ethical alternative to mined diamonds. Created in a controlled environment using advanced technology, lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds. The only difference lies in their origin.

Choosing a lab-grown diamond means making a responsible choice. These diamonds are not associated with the environmental and ethical concerns that often accompany traditional diamond mining. Moreover, lab-grown diamonds are typically more affordable, allowing you to select a larger or higher quality stone within your budget.

Three-Stone Cushion Cut Engagement Rings: A Story of Your Love

The three-stone engagement ring is more than just a beautiful piece of jewelry; it’s a symbol of your relationship’s journey. The three stones represent your past, present, and future together, making this style deeply meaningful.

When paired with cushion cut diamonds, a three-stone ring becomes a masterpiece of design and symbolism. The cushion cut’s soft lines complement the overall look, creating a ring that is as significant as it is stunning. It’s a perfect choice for those who want their ring to tell the story of their love and commitment.

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For those who prefer simplicity with a touch of elegance, the Solitaire Cushion Cut Diamond Ring is an ideal option. The solitaire setting allows the beauty of the cushion cut diamond to take center stage, highlighting its brilliance and unique shape.

A cushion cut solitaire ring is versatile, matching perfectly with any style—from classic to modern. It’s a timeless choice that exudes sophistication, making it a favorite for those who want an engagement ring that is both understated and striking.

Conclusion: The Perfect Ring for the Modern Bride

Cushion cut lab-grown diamond rings offer the perfect combination of elegance, sustainability, and meaning. Whether you choose the symbolic three-stone setting or the classic solitaire, these rings are designed to reflect your unique love story. As you prepare to take this significant step in your life, consider a cushion cut lab-grown diamond ring—an ethical, beautiful, and timeless choice that will symbolize your commitment for years to come.

[asliceoftoast]

"might post a part 2" YES PLEASE <3

pt 2 for playing pretend (｀▽´）―━━☆⌒*

here for part 1

--

April shuddered under his touch, his hand pressing against her back. “No, seriously. Jackson, what are you doing here?” 

His breath curled against her skin, teasing her frazzled nerves. “You shouldn’t post about this stuff on Facebook if you don’t want my mother to know. You forget that she likes to meddle.”

“Dr. Avery?” Her face skewed with confusion. “But..”

“Why?” Jackson interrupted, already knowing her question. Why would Catherine Avery, surgeon extraordinaire, care about her high school reunion? Simple. She wanted April to get laid and might have noticed her son’s not-so-secret crush even if the two involved were oblivious. Nothing like a mother’s push to help get the ball rolling. He sighed, “She just said that it was unbecoming to let you show up alone. Besides, she asked - no, demanded - that I bring you to Boston after this.”

Jackson shrugged, pouring a cup of punch for himself. “Well, who do we need to show off to?”

“I think you being here is already showing off and I already know Mary Lou told half the graduating class by now.” His blue eyes poured over April, taking her in. The yellowed lights warmed her pale skin. Her hair was tied back with a white ribbon, half up, half down, stray wisps framing her face. His gaze slowly lowered settling on her perfectly painted lips for a second. He swallowed nervously and looked down at territory typically covered by navy blue scrubs. Jackson wasn’t sure he was supposed to look at his best friend like this. Her dress featured a square neckline and an A-line skirt that ended at her knees, white straps meeting above her shoulders with tiny bows that draped over her thin shoulders. While modest and fitting her innocence, the fitted bodice showed her figure and he knew he wasn’t the only one looking. 

“You look beautiful, April.” A rosy glow warmed her cheeks as she dropped her gaze.

“You’re just saying that because there are people around.” Jackson spread his hand across her hip, bringing her flush to him as he secretly marked his territory to any stray men who wandered to the reunion hoping an old classmate would give them the time of day.

Jackson dragged a finger under her jaw, tilting her head towards him. Long lashes fluttered helplessly as she looked at him. “I’m not. You’re breathtaking tonight.”

“Oh. Well, you don’t look so bad yourself.” April broke her eyes away from his, taking a sip of her drink. She wasn’t sure it was good for her heart to keep looking into the stormy blue expanse for much longer. A thin smile passed across her lips, turning in his grasp as she noticed the trio returning to them. “Jackson. Six o’clock.”

“Don’t worry. I see them.” He put down his cup on the table and brought both hands to her waist. His lips pressed against her hairline forcing her heart to a stop. He was good at this. Too good. 

“April!” Grace’s voice cut through the short distance between them. “Surely you can introduce some old friends to your new sweetheart.” She stopped herself from rolling her eyes. Friends was an exaggeration and both of them knew it.

Jackson flashed his patented smile to the trio of women and April swore she saw Grace tuck away her engagement ring. At least Mary Lou and Carly had the decency to blush. “Hi, ladies. Jackson Avery. Board certified plastic surgeon and board member of the Harper Avery Foundation.”

Grace cleared her throat, voice uncharacteristically light and soft as she addressed Jackson. noticing her minions were stuck in a daze. “April says you met at work. What made you fall for our dear April?”

April brought the waxy lip of her cup to her mouth, chugging the rest of her spiked drink as her friend and fake boyfriend turned his attention back to her. His palm radiated heat against her dress and he pressed her so close to him that she felt every breath he took against her exposed back. Her skin flushed with arousal, April silently hoped he didn’t notice.

“April’s always caught my attention. Ever since I first met her. The blend of anxiousness, compassion, and a fierce dedication to those she cares about keeps me on my toes. She challenges me to grow: to be a better doctor, a better person. There’s never a dull moment with her.” He paused, eyes steady with hers. April wasn’t sure she was breathing, consciousness drifting away from her. His eyes looked back pointedly at Grace, “Even if I didn’t get to see her every day at work, April’s a gorgeous, kind, and talented trauma surgeon. I’m lucky I even get to go out with her and that someone else didn’t sweep her away before I could ask her out.”

Mary Lou cooed, nearly weeping at the few sentences Jackson said. If she didn’t know him better, April would have swooned too. With a calm heart, she brought her hand up to his cheek, not expecting him to kiss her palm gently as she cupped his face.

“Jackson.” His name came out hoarse, riddled with emotion. Something twinged in her chest, swallowing her words as she was still surrounded by her high school nemesis. 

Grace broke their trance, scoffing lightly at the display of affection in front of her. “It seems like April’s all grown up.”

April’s chest rose and a wide smile passed across her face as she looked at the three ladies in front of them. “I’m sure Jackson’s tired from traveling all this way fron Seattle and I wouldn’t want to keep him up.”

“No!” Carly protested. “Surely he can stay for a few more minutes.” April watched her eyes hungrily rake over Jackson’s form. 

“Sorry, ladies.” Jackson smirked as April stood protectively between them. As he slid his hand into hers, interlacing their fingers, he said, “We have a flight to Boston to catch.”

[wardensantoineandevka]

There's only seven of the Nein, but there's fifteen player characters at the table tonight. We've been looking forward to this one for a minute, and it's sure to be something.

Tonight's bingo call sheet currently has 45 items, though I might add a couple more because I had some good squares earlier in the week and forgot what they were. At any rate, you can check out all of the items under the cut and can grab your bingo card over at BingoBaker.

Keep an eye on the "#CritRole bingo" tag for any updates on new squares, if I remember what they are. As always, the call list is locked once the opening theme starts. I do note that the above example uses "Luc mention", but it has been updates to "Luc or Yeza mention" on the call list.

I don't think there's any real notes to be had on this batch, but if you have any questions as to whether a square is legal or not, feel free to send me an ask and I'll try to get that clarified up for you.

introductions

Fearne steals from Nein

Braius recognizes Jester and Veth

Briaus prays

Star Razor

Ring of Fire Resistance

Fjorester engagement mentioned

someone gets laid

Braius hits on Nein

Veth hits on Braius

Wildemount politics update

Chet carves item

item exchanged across parties

Sprinkle

Pâté

Little Mister

Array used

initiative

Tower

arrive on Ruidus

parties split off

Leeta and/or Maeve appearance

Artagan appearance or mention

Essek mention

Luc or Yeza mention

Allura mention

Leylas or Dynasty mention

any new NPC name

Vox Machina mention

Eyes of the Grave

Grim Psychometry

Know Your Enemy

Detect Thoughts

Druidcraft

Identify

Polymorph

Teleport

Arcana check

Deception check

History check

Insight check against PC

Insight check against NPC

Perception check

Religion check

Sleight check