#Someday at Christmas Collection

[page-2-ids]

ID: A flag with nine horizontal stripes, all the same size. The colors are, from top to bottom, dark indigo, purple, violet, light pink, white, pastel yellow, soft yellow-orange, soft red, and pink. END ID

ThisAintChristmashottic: A gender related to the hot take that Bon Jovi’s This Ain’t a Love Song sounds a lot like Someday at Christmas

The colors come from my associations with both songs

For Bon Jovi anon (ver 3)!

[biologicalfandomhippo]

Okay I need to put this out here: I keep seeing people get all sad and defeatist about it not being snowy this season. There is an El niño right now. That is the second biggest effector on local climates globally.

What this means is that the trade winds have essentially disappeared, and increased convection over the ocean is changing air circulation patterns globally.

Scientists don't know what causes this but we have a few theories. We have noticed them getting more frequent due to climate change.

This has happened before. It's probably getting more frequent now, but there have been variations due to El niño years basically forever. This year is an anomaly, not the new norm. We do need to worry about climate change, but the situation is not as dire as this year would make it appear. The biggest thing we can all do is educate ourselves about how the climate works, and take action as a group as appropriate.

[the-californicationist]

Hi! I’m not sure if you’re doing request if you aren’t don’t worry but If you are could you please write whatever you’re down for, a little Drabble of Simon and reader going yarn shopping! I just came back yarn shopping myself and I’ve been giggling at the names! One I picked is called “tutti frutie

Thank you so much for the ask!! This is such a cute idea. Hope you enjoy the story <3

Twelve Row Repeat

Your wonderful man, Simon Riley, has his heart set on a sweater for Christmas. So, you drag him to the yarn shop to make him squish the skeins.

“And you’re sure you want this one? There are some other —”

Simon reached over you, towering behind you in his motorcycle gear and black medical mask, snatching the paper pattern from the small rack,

“This is it.”

“Okay,” you flipped open the small pattern booklet, “Great.”

This was not great. 

Simon had only been asking for one thing all year. Each time Christmas came up in conversation, he’d just shrug and mention his sweater. It was your own fault, really. You’d been frequenting a new local yarn shop by your flat, and he’d begrudgingly tag along. His big brown eyes would cut over a sharp glance to you when the price rang up on the till, but he didn’t complain. One night, while you were scrolling through heirloom-style sweater patterns on your phone, daydreaming about the knitter you would someday be, he stopped you, pressing his thick fingerpad to the screen,

“Aye. That’ll do me.”

“Si,” you shook your head, “I’m not that good, yet. Those are much harder than they look.”

“Nah, you’re brilliant,” he planted a chaste kiss on your mouth, silencing your protests, and left it at that. 

So, now, here you were, hunched over the small pattern library of your favorite shop, digging through the advanced section of Aran sweaters, staring at sleeves with cables and twelve-row repeats. It was enough to make your mouth dry. 

But, he believed in you, and you wanted to trust yourself that you could handle it. Bucking up the courage, you grabbed a few notions and headed over to the yarn wall, dragging Simon behind you. 

You stood side by side as you stared at the collection. It was organized by weight and brand, color-coded for fiber type. It was one of your favorite places on earth. Sometimes, even when you didn’t bring your man with you, you’d come and dig through the cubbies, squishing the cakes and skeins, letting them whisper to you about what they wanted to be. It was important to you that you listened to the yarn. Just because you wanted to make a blanket with a particular yarn didn’t necessarily mean it would feel good on your needles. You needed to listen and feel… and most importantly — squeeze for softness.

“Alright,” you said, galvanized, “What color?”

“Black.”

“No.”

There was no way in hell you were spending six months staring into the blackness trying to decipher the knits and purls and cables of a Level 4 sweater.

Simon huffed, but he was smiling. You could see the way his cheek creased up underneath his eyes. 

“Green,” he relented, then grabbed your arm in his gloved hand, snatching you away from a pretty sage color wool, “Dark green.”

You glared up at him, but you set your sights on a dark green merino. It called to you like a siren’s song. And, at the price per skein that you assumed that it was, you were about to help Simon find out just what kind of gift he was asking you for. 

Your hand reached out to grab the carefully wound ball. It was soft, with a very slight halo, and the emerald hues varied only a little through the strands, letting you know that it had been hand-dyed with the utmost care. You flipped it over to read the name: Spruced Up. As your fist delicately closed around the skein, you nearly sighed from the plushness of it. You wanted to bury your face in it already, and it wasn’t even knitted up. 

You checked the weight. After measuring Simon at home, you knew you needed to over buy. Who knows? You told yourself. Maybe I’ll even get some gloves out of this. It would be fun to match with him.

“Okay, tiger,” you smiled up at him, “We need thirteen of these.” 

He grabbed the ball from you and checked the tag,

“Thirteen? Are you havin’ a laugh?”

“You’re a big bloke,” you shrugged, “And this is a complex pattern. Just give me your hand. I want you to feel it.”

He hesitated, doing the mental math for the cost in his head. But, he gave you his hand and let you remove his glove.

You placed the skein back into his palm, staring in wonder at the sheer size of it, and told him,

“Okay, now squish.”

Simon squished. He was careful, now that he knew the price of what he was holding, and he looked down at it in surprise.

“Soft…” He commented in a half-whisper, looking up into your gaze with amused surprise. Then, he squished again, indulgently, and his timbre changed to something a little more insidious, “Soft like you, lamb.”

Your pet name rumbled out of his mouth as no small threat. You saw him reaching for you, and you caught him before he could snake his other hand fully under your dress, grabbing for your thighs to tease the soft, plump flesh there.

“Hey! If you get me kicked out, you definitely won’t get your sweater.” You smirked, bumping him with your hip, promising him he could be naughty later, just not here.

Simon helped you haul your purchases up to the counter and paid for the entire lot, not even grimacing at the final total. He patiently waited while you used their in-store winder and swift. You enjoyed the way he studied you as you practiced the skills of your craft. His faith in your abilities really made you feel like you could accomplish anything you set your mind to. 

Finally, with your yarn and notions packed and stowed carefully in his bike’s saddle bags, Simon handed you your helmet and commented, 

“Looking forward to seeing your progress, love.”

“I’ll keep you posted. Might even let you squish my yarn again…” You winked when his head turned back to you, getting excited by your tone.

“It’s not the yarn I want in my hands, little lamb. Get on this bike before you get yourself into trouble.”

AO3 Link

*Sorry, my knitting knowledge is basic, but I tried to do my homework. I can make a scarf and that's about it!

[howmanyholesinswisscheese]

More Sherlock & Co Headcanons

Because y'all like the first ones so much.

Mariana is one of those heathens who eats the kernels at the bottom of the popcorn bowl and enjoys it.

John and Sherlock have a rotating cast of answers to the age old client question, "So are you two...?" which only serve to confuse the asker even more. It's an incredibly enjoyable sport. Sherlock often just plays dumb, to John's enormous amusement. It's their favorite inside joke.

When he does actually eat it, Sherlock's go-to breakfast food is a boiled egg and soldiers. Fight me. I will not stand for boiled eggs and soldiers slander they are amazing and Sherlock knows it.

John keeps a collection of bloopers/funny moments he's recorded during cases in a folder on his computer. When he's feeling down, he puts in his earplugs and listens to them. He never fails to get a laugh out of it.

Speaking of language headcanons in the last post, Sherlock speaks fluent Spanish (because of course he does). Sometimes he and Mariana have innocuous conversations in Spanish just to mess with John. He finally gets what it's like to be a stranger watching them all converse in BSL.

Sherlock has a strong appreciation for the musical arts. Once, after a particularly sour case, John took Sherlock to the orchestra to lighten his mood. Sherlock didn't express much outward enjoyment, still drained from the previous week's labor, but the next day the pieces they'd heard rang out through the flat as Sherlock's touch brought them to life from memory on his violin. John found this version infinitely more beautiful than any orchestra. and he even glimpsed the ghost of a smile as Sherlock lost himself in the music.

You know how everyone has a different little doodle they do when they're bored and they've got a pen and a bit of paper around? Well, Sherlock does mandalas and circle scribbles, John does little smiley faces and zig zags, and Mariana writes peoples names in calligraphy.

@obsessed-sketches and I both agree Sherlock wears a really heavy, well-worn coat for the deep-pressure stimulation. And a scarf, because those are absolutely splendid to play/fiddle with and being all wrapped up just adds a whole nother dimension to it all.

John uses Microsoft Edge as his default browser. Mariana's exasperated protests have been completely futile in convincing him to switch and to be honest, who knows if there's any hope left for him anymore.

Speaking of browsers, Sherlock would be such a boss at the 2048 game.

Someday I'm gonna have to write a dance lesson fic, because the idea of Sherlock teaching John to dance for a case lives in my head rent free for literally every SH rendition but these two especially. Sherlock freely infodumping about the history of each song he plays as he shows John how to waltz, John filling the silence with nervous rambling, that rapport setting in and them just falling into step after a few minutes and forgetting time is even passing... I know I mostly HC them as a QPR but dear god the intimacy in that may kill me.

Mariana once introduced Sherlock to the National Day Calendar. National Cellophane Tape Day, National Life Insurance Day, National Raspberry Popover Day, and the likes are now slipped happily into conversations at 221B under Sherlock's firm belief that each one is on par with Christmas in terms of their significance in the public eye. Slay, Sherlock. National Days are awesome.

John makes the cutest sleep noises.

Yk how i said Sherlock likes rainbow sour straps. If you've ever eaten sour straps, you'll know there are two ways to eat them: whole, or by tearing the colours into strips. Clearly, as a civilised human being, Sherlock does the latter.

SHERLOCK WOULD TOTALLY WRITE AWESOME POETRY AND READ IT OUT AND JOHN AND MARIANA WOULD BE STUNNED INTO AWESTRUCK SILENCE

Mariana wears those really big hoop earrings. You know the ones.

AAAAH i should stop before this becomes a mammoth block of text. Maybe I'll make a part three.

Thank you kindly for being unwillingly subjected to my opinions coming to my TED talk.

[just-some-trans-nobody]

December Christmas Monster stories

17.) Dragon x Knight

Nammot the male dragon falls for a brave male Knight and one thing leads to another. Hope ya'll enjoy, this was my first time writing dragon smut.

Warning: NSFW, grinding, cum, person covered in cum, dry cumming, cock humping, thigh fucking, no penetration sex, gay sex, sex with a dragon, large tounge licking human body, threats of death, meantions of eating humans, possessive dragon, let me know if I forgot any warnings.

Minors Don't Interact!!! You will be blocked immediately.

Word count 2751

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Snow fell around the caves entrance slowly blocking the way if not for Nammot’s fiery hot breath melting it all away each time he let out a heavy sigh. Not many knights would make the treacherous path up the steep hill let alone do it in the snow leaving Nammot rather bored waiting for anything of interest to happen. He wanted a knight to fight, to eat up in one bite and play with his shiny armor adding it to his collection. That is what he told himself, he was waiting for a knight yes but not just any knight. He was waiting for a knight who had called himself Percevale. 

Nammot was planning on eating him the first time they had met but instead of drawing his sword when he first laid eyes on the dragon he had greeted him and had even asked for his name. No knight had ever done that to him during his many years of terrorizing the villages and kingdom. It made Nommot pause his fire breath and think for a moment about it, he hadn’t said his own name in so long he had almost forgotten it completely. “Nammot you may call me but not for long little shiny one for you sure will be dead soon.” He had growled out, smoke pouring from his nostrils as he readied himself to hurl his fiery breath at him. “Nammot? A nice name. Does it mean anything?” The knight had asked, confusing him and once more causing him to stop the fire building up in his throat. “Pardon?” Nammot asked confused by the question. “Well my name means to pierce the veil, whatever that means. Names have meaning to it, what our parents hope us to do someday. Or for those who choose their own name it means the path they intend to take.” Percivale explained looking up at the dragon. “Seems your parents wanted you to see the dead.” He snorted sitting down on his hind legs, an action reminding Percivale of how a dog sits. “Heh my parents must have wanted me to be a grave keeper rather than a knight then.” Nammot was absolutely baffled hearing a knight actually laugh and make what seemed to be a joke to him. It was always screams or threats of death upon the king's orders. What kind of knight was he to not attack him but to be kind to him? It surely must have been a trap one he will not fall for. Standing back up he snarled as he for a third time readied his fire breath wanting to kill the knight for daring to make a fool of him thinking he could tick him. Seeing Pericivale reach for something he acquired his shoulder ready for the knight to draw his sword all the more ready to burn him to a crisp but all movements froze when the knight pulled out a small dragon carved from wood. “I made this for you. You always take things so I guessed maybe no one has given you anything before.” He explained holding the wooden dragon up for Nammot to see better and for a third time he cooled the fire in his throat and leaned in close to look at the small dragon held in Percival's gauntlet. His pupils dilated for a movement as he stared at his gift before turning back into slits as he leaned back. “Ahem your offering will suffice, I shall not kill you this time but if you come again I shall not be as kind.” Nammot sneered as he held out his large scaled paw for Pericivale to drop  the wooden item into.

The wooden dragon now sits on top of his hoard, his prized possession though he never admits it. Percivale came back again and again, each time with a gift for Nammot, each time Nammot said he would surely kill him the next time they met but never followed up with his threat. Between their meetings the longer Nammot waited the grumpier he got, he didn’t like waiting for his devoted follower as he liked to call him. Percivale liked to call him his friend, though Nammot would scoff at the words but never correct him about it. 

As the seasons changed to winter Nammot now waited for Percivale to visit him, growing more and more impatient. “This time I really will kill him if the cold doesn't do it before he gets here.” The moment Nammot had muttered those words he had regretted it. What if Percivale had really died and he just didn’t know him. The thought of losing his only friend struck his heart like a piercing arrow. This feeling only grew worse as the hours turned to days, still Percivale didn’t show. Nammot wallowed in his grief thinking his little knight was dead. That is until one day as Nammot was sprawled out letting out soft whimpers the sound of clanking footsteps froze him in his tracks. “Percivale?” He called sitting up staring at the entrance of the cave with baited breath but as the figure drew closer and made no sound Nammot grew worried it wasn’t him and some other knight had braved the mountain in the winter in hopes to catch the dragon off guard. Standing up Nammot readied his fire breath growling as his eyes narrowed.“Ah did the day finally come when you surely would kill me?” a voice called up, almost bringing Nammot to his knees. “Oh my knight!” He wailed out before clearing his throat trying to compose himself. “I mean oh it’s you… thought you were some other foolish knight here for me to feed upon.” Nammot said, puffing his chest out as he looked away. Percivale knew Nammot was embarrassed, he could read that dragon better than Nammot would have liked him to be able. “Ah yes of course, you must be starving with so few knights to eat. They’re all trying to avoid being out in the cold.” Percivale said with a shiver of his own. Smiling under his helmet he walked over to Nammot, not afraid of the dragon in the slightest and plopped down next to him. “What did you bring me this time, my devoted follower?” Nammot asked leaning his head in closer, he knew nothing of personal space and was almost pressing his large head against Percivales armored body. “Food.” He stated looking through the bag he had brought. “Dried meat, it lasts longer. Though with your size I would say this is more of a snack than a few days' meals as it would be for me.” Percivale laughed, taking out the large pouch of meats. Nammot opened his mouth in a silent demand for the knight to feed him. A demand Percivale followed with no second thought to it, just opening the bag and dumping the contents into the dragon's mouth. “Mind if I take my armor off? I worked up a sweat in the cold and now all my clothes are wet from it. It’s very unpleasant.” He started the long process of taking off all his armor, one Nammot nodded his head not caring at all. Dragons were always naked. Why would he care if a human was too? 

He found himself watching Pericivale undressing in the corner of his eye, he was trying to act like he didn’t care in the slightest but this had been the first time he had seen the knight take anything off past his helmet and Nammot was a curious dragon. Humans had such an interesting body. They were no dragon of course, such puny things but Nammot found himself admiring Percivales body. Turning his head to look at him better Nammot watched Percivale spread out his cold wet clothes onto the stones in the cave in hopes the dragons heat would dry them. He was unaware of the glowing eyes scanning each scar and blemish on his body as he moved around naked in the cave. 

A gush of cold winter air blew in from the cave's entrance causing Percivale to shiver as it bit at his exposed skin. That wouldn’t do, Nammot couldn’t have his devoted follower suffering from the cold. Letting out a displeased snort, Nammot swept his tail around Percivale pulling him in closer to his much larger body. He pretended he didn’t see the wide grin on Percivales face as he sat down leaning against Nammots stomach. It felt strange to him to have someone touching his weaker under belly. It was a great sign of trust for a dragon to show their underbellies let alone let someone be pressed against it but he had that trust for his little human. The two stayed like that for a few hours until Percivale drifted off to sleep curled up against Nammot. He watched the sleeping knight admiring eyes, how does a human like him feel so comfortable sleeping so close to a dragon? “Silly little human.” Nammot whispered, gently nuzzling his face against Perivicales, laying his head down, closing his eyes drifting off into a slumber of his own.

It was a peaceful rest until the sounds of quiet wimpers woke Nammot up. Lifting his head up he looked to Percivale with worry thinking he had hurt him by mistake in his sleep, gotten to careless and shifted his weight onto him crushing him, or maybe nicked him with one of his talons. Seeing Percivale was still in one piece with no crushed bones Nammot tilted his head and leaned him pressing his nose against his trembling form. Maybe he was cold, was that it? Nammot blew a small amount of his breath onto him hoping to warm his little devoted human. It didn’t stop the shivering or the whimpering much to his dismay. Frowning he gently nuzzled his nose against him. Sure enough that stopped the sounds that were causing Nammot distress. Sighing he relaxed and nuzzled him again as he slowly closed his eyes drifting back to sleep. His hot breath caressing Percivales body with exhale. After a while the hot careesses drew too much for Percivale, soft moans left his lips as his dreams turned from the earlier nightmares to sinful thoughts of desire. Nammot slipped into a lighter sleep state hearing the moans, he mistook them for the whimpers from earlier so to comfort his little human he nuzzled him again adding fuel to Percivales burning loins. He moaned much louder at that, waking the both of them almost immediately. Pulling back with wide eyes Percivale looked away, his face turning a bright shade of red as he did his best to hide his lower half. Nammot looked at him blinking a few times as the gears in his head started to turn, still a little slow about it until he finally took in the scent of his arousal. “Oh.” He said with a dry throat only able to let out the one word. “How indecent of you.” Nammot thought his teasing was clear but he froze when he noticed Percivales eyes had started to water at his words. His heart sank at the sight. Letting out a soft rumble Nammot pressed his nose to him nuzzling him once more. “I didn’t mean it like that silly little thing.” He hummed, sending vibrations throughout Percivales body. His tongue slithered out giving Percivale what was meant to be a comforting lick across his body, Percivale didn’t take it that way and moaned feeling the hot muscle drag up his body from stomach up to his chest coating him in drool. It wasn’t originally what Nammot was going for but it was an outcome he didn’t mind. His pretty little human made such lovely sounds. Wanting to draw out more he licked him again causing Percivale to gasp and writhe against the feeling. “What are you doing? Nammot stop it.” Percivale whined as his back arched. “If you wish it.” Nammot whispered, pulling back, he watched him with greedy eyes wanting to taste more of his flesh. Looking up at Nammot Percivale let out a soft whimper as he held eye contact with the dragon.“Do it again?” He whispered embarrassed by his words by controlled by his lust. Nammot smirked as he leaned back in pushing the knight's legs wide open with his nose as he stuck his tongue back up licking his crotch up to his neck causing Percivale to let out several gasps and whiny moans. The dragon let out a moan of his own, tasting the sweat on Percivales body. His skin tastes like sweet nectar and Nammot was almost tempted to take a bite but reframed himself from doing so. Letting out a moan Percivale pushed his hips up against Nammots tongue begging for more from the dragon. Leaning back Percivale noticed a shape to his side that wasn’t there before. Turning his head to get a better look his eyes widened seeing the dragons unsheathed cock. “By the gods I think that might be bigger than I am.” Percivale said in both shock and awe. 

“Do you like it?” The dragon asked with a cocky tone, the smell coming from Percivale already gave him his answer. Rolling onto his back Nammot stretched out showing off his cock. “I assume you know what to do.” He said as if it was obvious and Percivale should be able to read his mind. “What? No, no I don’t know what to do. I’ve never fucked a dragon before!” Percivale exclaimed geturing to Nammot and his cock causing the dragon to frown. He was hoping Percivale knew what to do, he hadn’t fucked a human before, he hadn’t the fantiest idea on how this could work. “Climb on top of me and grind against me, it’s why I was licking you duh.” Nammot stated as if it was a fact and not him pulling something out of thin air. Percivale let out a soft oh as he stared at the dragon's cock. Gulping he climbed up his hip and straddled Nammots monstrous cock the best he could. It was burning hot, almost too hot for Percivale but the moment his cock touched Nammots he let out a long moan. Holding onto the ridges of Nammots cock for support he started to move back and forth rubbing his thighs and cock against him to simulate them both at the same time. Percivale was worried at first he wasn’t doing a good enough job as he stared at the unmoving dragon. Nammot wasn’t making a single sound, not even blinking. Just breathing heavily as he watched him with unsatiated hunger. Moving faster Percivale let out a louder moan as his back arched. Still Nammot made not a single sound, he dared not to as he didn’t want to miss a single lewd sound Percivale made pleasuring himself on his burning cock. The sounds and sight of Percivale would be his most cherished treasure for all times, he knew that already. Feeling Percivale grow slower Nammot growled and grasped his waist in his clawed hand holding him as he rutted his hips against him taking control of the situation. “Keep those pretty legs wrapped around me.” He ordered letting out a moan. Percivale gladly followed orders and squeezed his legs against the dragon's cock. Nammot wasn’t sure how long this went on. By the time he had his fill of orgasms both his stomach and Percivale was covered in his sticky cum. Percivale was dazed and panting, his last three orgasms he had been cumming dry, completely spent and having lost track of them long ago. Letting out an over-stimulated whine Percivale looked to Nammot with tear soaked eyes, neither had realized he had been crying from the amount of pleasure he had been feeling. “I don’t have anything left in me.” He said almost pleading to Nammot who nodded his head in agreement. “Nor I.” The dragon said, lifting the knight up, setting him onto his chest. Percivale let out a soft whine but snuggled into him almost immediately. “Wouldn’t mind if this became a regular thing when I visit you.” He said letting out a winded laugh drawing a rumbling laugh from Nammot. “If this becomes a regular thing I don’t think I would let you out of my cave.” Having Percivale live there sounded rather good in that moment, Percivale silently agreed with it too, he could get used to living like this.

[fortisfilia]

Promised Part 8 - Tom Riddle x reader

Info: This is a rewrite of a story I've posted on my old account years ago. If it sounds familiar, that might be why :)

Summary: In this story, Tom didn't grow up as an orphan, but with his grandfather and uncle. Reader's sister got very sick and the Gaunts offer their help. But not without asking for something in return.

Warnings: Arranged marriage

Word count: 3.1k

Masterpost | Masterlist | Part 7 | Part 9

Part 8 - Slughorn's Party

Returning to Hogwarts after the Christmas holidays was far less stressful this time. Now that Elsie was better, it was much easier to concentrate on your studies. Maybe you could also focus on Tom. Both things seemed equally important somehow. And the fact that you could see Camille again added to the good things Hogwarts had to offer.

You were sitting on her bed in her dorm, telling her everything that had been going on during the last days. The Gaunts who had wanted to force you to do an unbreakable vow, their fight with Tom, that Tom had stayed for a bit, the book he had gifted you and everything in between. 

“I can’t believe you got him a snake,” Camille laughed. “What do you think his family said about that?”

“I couldn’t care less what they think of it. I hope they’re mad at me.”

“Do you think Tom got in trouble for it?”

“I don’t think so. He knows how to stand his ground.”

“And the book he gave you? Do you think that it means something? It’s some sort of family heirloom after all.”

Thinking about it, you lay down on your back next to her. “I’m not sure. Do you think that was some kind of secret message from him?”

“Maybe.”

“I’ll have to look into that.” You rolled over to face her. “And what have you done these days? Tell me all about your presents.”

“Well,” Camille said with a smile. “The presents weren’t the most exciting part of my holiday, to be honest.”

“Let me guess. You met someone! A guy?”

The smile on her face widened. “I didn’t meet him. I just kept in contact via owl.”

“Oh, Merlin! Who is it? Someone from school?”

She nodded.

“Go on, tell me!”

Her expression suddenly changed. “You have to promise not to be mad.”

“Why would I be mad?”

“It’s someone you don’t exactly like,” she said, a thick tone of guilt in her voice.

Then you knew. “No. Don’t. It’s Ben Hilt, isn’t it?”

She nodded slowly. “Yes.”

“Oh, Camille,” you sighed and needed a moment to sort out your thoughts. “Why?”

“He is a very charming boy.”

“He’s a year younger than you.”

“So?” she giggled.

“He wanted to tell on me to the Ministry, so that I wouldn’t be able to marry Tom. Sticks his nose in everybody’s business.”

“He just wanted to help. He thought you were forced to do it. And you have to admit he wasn’t exactly wrong about that.”

“Have you told him about the pact?”

“Of course not! I would never. I told him right from the start that if he’s only after me to get information about Riddle and you, he could piss off.”

“And?”

“He didn’t piss off,” she smiled. “He’s really nice. We never talked about you and Tom after I had made it clear it was none of his business. He didn’t even bring it up to begin with. I did. I would never date someone who would want to harm you, I swear.”

“Ugh, I know,” you groaned. “You’re too good. For me and for Ben.”

“Shut up,” she said as she nudged your shoulder.

“Wait. Did you just say ‘date’ someone? Are you official?”

“No. I guess not. But maybe someday. Now, what are you going to wear to Slughorn’s party?”

Slughorn’s annual belated New Year’s party was one of the few exclusive gatherings happening in school. Students could only attend if they had gotten a personal invitation, from Slytherin’s headteacher Horace Slughorn, who would invite his favourite pupil, or rather, the ones he thought looked best in his trophy collection. 

Camille, Tom and you had all gotten Slughorn’s owl. You had not mustered up the courage to ask him about it. Even though you were going to marry him, that didn’t mean he wanted to go to the party together. Together, as in, on a date. It had felt too delicate talking about it directly, the fear of being rejected too present. So you had danced around the subject, trying to find out if you were on the same page. Until he had finally said what you had wanted to hear. He had asked when to pick you up as if the possibility of not going there as a couple had not even occurred to him.

Seven o’clock, as arranged. It had arrived so soon. You hastily fixed the small wrinkles on the hem of your dress with a spell when you heard him knock on the door. Tom looked very posh in his black suit, politely offering his arm. And off you went. Together.

The guests at the party were students from years six and seven, as well as some teachers. Camille, who had brought Ben with her, looked absurdly pretty in her golden dress. Ben couldn’t have been more proud. He talked to Camille continuously and just seemed head over heels for her. Right next to them stood two of Ben’s friends, looking all out of character in suits. Avery and Lestrange came without dates and seemed awfully nervous for some reason. They whispered to each other every time you looked their way.

And then there was Freda Morris. Hogwarts’ head girl, who had her eyes fixated on Tom from the moment you had entered the room. Had she even noticed you next to him? Was she aware Tom was spoken for? Everyone knew by now that you were engaged after all, the ring on your finger being a testament to that. Either she didn’t know, or she didn’t care. The expression she sent you, after carefully staring you up and down, told you though, that she was absolutely aware of your relationship. She looked like she wanted to throw you out the next window.

“What in Merlin’s beard?” you muttered quietly to yourself after she had finally turned away from you.

“Pardon?” Tom asked and came closer so he could hear you better.

“Nevermind. Let’s go over to Camille and Ben, shall we?”

Tom’s gaze fell right on the two. 

“Your friend came with Hilt?” he asked sternly and began to walk their way. 

“Um, yes. About that,” you said, pulling lightly on his arm to stop him. “They’re dating. Kind of. They’re not official yet, but, you know, it could lead somewhere.”

He looked like you had just given him the world’s most unnecessary information. “What are you trying to tell me?” 

“That we have to be nice,” you answered and gave him your best fake smile, demonstrating what you wanted him to do.

“Nice?” He gawked so blankly at you, it was almost comical. “You want me to be nice to Benjamin Hilt? After what he’s done?”

“Well… Yes.”

“Why?” Tom asked, genuinely not understanding what you meant.

“Because Camille is my best friend. And she likes him.”

Tom sighed.

“Answer me this,” he said. “Camille knows a lot about you, yes?”

“Yes.”

“I assume she knows about us.“ He started talking more quietly. “Our pact?”

“She does.”

He rolled his eyes. “That’s what I thought.”

“So?” you asked.

“Isn’t it clear? He’s sweet-talking her to get information.”

“That’s what I first thought too. But Camille swore she wouldn’t tell him a thing. And she said she had made that clear to him from the beginning.”

Tom was still eyeing Ben sharply. 

“Come on,” you said and pulled him their way. “I trust Camille. It’ll be fine.”

“It‘s not her I don’t trust,” Tom said under his breath. “At least he's a true Gryffindor if he goes after her now. Either completely daft or actually courageous.” Your eyebrows lifted in question and he ducked his head grinning. “Remember I told you I’d take care of him when Marvolo sent his letter?”

“Yes?”

“I sort of did.”

Stopping in your tracks, you asked, “When? And what did you do?”

“A few weeks before Christmas. I just pulled him aside and talked.”

“Talked?”

“Well, I talked. He didn’t say much to be fair.”

“Tom, where did you take him?”

“The weather was nice so I took him outside.” 

Short answers again. This story wasn’t going to end well. “Where?”

He still feigned innocence, squinting his eyes as if he struggled to remember. “The whomping willow.”

“The wh- Tom! What in Merlin’s name were you thinking?”

“I said I’d take care of him, so I did!” He held his hands up in defence. “Also, he was only up in the air for a minute, okay? I held back.”

“I can’t believe you’re telling me this now,” you sighed, your fingers pressed against your forehead.

He shrugged. “I didn’t deem it important. For me, the issue was settled.”

“Okay.” Shaking your head, you started walking towards them again. “Since it’s settled, we can give him another chance. And vice versa.”

Tom didn’t answer, following you silently. 

When you greeted the two, Camille hugged you and gushed, “You look so beautiful! And you both know Ben, I believe.”

Of course, you did. Whether Ben wanted anything to do with you after what Tom had done was a different question. You offered him your hand and Ben shook it, despite it all, with an honest smile on his face.

“Fresh start?” you asked.

Ben nodded and turned to shake Tom’s hand as well. Tom looked at him seriously for a moment, inspecting his hand as if it was covered in Dragon Pox, until you nudged his side with your elbow, urging him to accept, which he reluctantly did.

Slughorn called for dinner before you could talk more, so you all went to the big oval table on the other side of the room. Ben sat down left of Camille, you to her right and Tom on your other side. Slughorn talked openly across the table, asking his students about their holidays, while dinner was served. Freda, obviously trying to impress, mentioned that she had been to France with her family, which didn’t have quite the effect on Slughorn that she had hoped it would.

“Pathetic,” you mumbled and Camille chuckled.

“Mean, aren’t we?” Tom whispered, a grin forming on his face.

“Me? Never.”

He exhaled a laugh and slowly grabbed your hand beneath the table, taking you by surprise. You looked at him, your fingers wrapping around his hand, then pulled them upwards and rested both his and your hand on the table. 

“Now you’re just cruel,” Tom jested when Freda looked over and saw the two of you.

“I have no idea what you’re talking about,” you answered, biting the inside of your cheek to prevent yourself from smiling. “I’m merely holding my fiance's hand. That’s not an act of violence, is it?”

“Fiancé, huh?” Tom asked.

“Aren’t you?”

“You’ve never called me that before.”

He was right. You had never called him that in person, or when you had talked about him to anyone else. If you didn’t know better, you could have sworn that a crimson haze was creeping up his neck and across his face.

“Well,” you swallowed, feeling a wave of heat on your cheeks as well. “It’s what you are, whether we like it or not.”

Tom nodded and held your hand a little tighter while glancing down at the table. “Fair.”

After dinner, the guests spread around the room, chatting and drinking punch while they waited for the first dance of the evening. Slughorn had pulled Tom aside a while ago, asking about his opinions on different things concerning Potions, politics and the news. He visibly hung to Tom’s every word, clearly awed by his favourite student, nodded and agreed to most of the things Tom said. You turned your back on them and faced Camille and Ben, still hearing the two chat behind you and thinking of how well-spoken Tom was. He knew how to lull in every teacher by heart. Each word that left his mouth seemed carefully crafted for Slughorn’s ears only and made him react just as Tom wanted him to. Impressive. 

Having engaged in conversation with Camille and Ben, while still keeping an ear on Tom behind you, you heard that Slughorn finally set him free and wished him a nice evening. Tom would be joining you, no doubt, even though he still didn’t like Ben when suddenly an all too familiar voice started talking to him.

“Hello Tom,” Freda Morris said, sickly sweet. “How are you? How were your holidays?”

You shot Camille a look, to which she automatically checked the people behind you, eyes wide in disbelief when she peered back at you. 

“What are you going to do?” she mouthed silently.

“No idea,” you mouthed back.

Ben stared back and forth between Camille and you, completely confused until he finally noticed what you were whispering about. 

“Oh,” Ben snorted. “Someone’s looking for trouble.”

Alright. Freda had not given up on Tom yet. There was a knot in your stomach, pulling bitterly and twisting your insides. You tried to ignore it, took a deep breath and decided to listen to them first. Maybe you were overreacting. Jinxing her later was still an option.

“Oh yes, Paris was wonderful actually,” Freda enthused and had pronounced ‘Paris’ in a weird French accent. “It’s so cosy there around Christmas, you have to go someday.”

“Sounds nice,” Tom answered, rather casually. “Well, if you don’t mind, I-”

“Oh, Tom, actually,” she went on. “I wanted to ask you. Don’t you think we should open the first dance together, as head boy and girl? It’s a tradition, after all.”

Tradition? You had never heard of such a tradition before. Camille and Ben, now eavesdropping too, were as dumbfounded as you. Camille was sincerely shocked, while Ben’s mouth was open, half laughing, half speechless, like a fish on land gasping for air. It seemed that you had not been overreacting, so you turned around, now facing Tom and Freda’s backside.

“I don’t know if that’s actually a tradition, Freda,” Tom said, looking back at you briefly, one side of his mouth pulling upwards.

“Philip Elms and Eve Sterling opened the dance at last year’s party,” she huffed. “They were head girl and boy too.”

“Correct,” Tom agreed. “But they were dating at the time, weren’t they?”

Freda didn’t answer.

“And since we are not dating, I have to politely decline,” he said, again looking at you. “Now excuse me, I have to talk to my fiancée.”

Tom left Freda standing there and the four of you watched her wandering off. No one said a word, Camille was holding her breath until Ben burst out laughing. “Mate,” he chuckled. “That was… deadly.”

Tom didn’t laugh, squinting at what Ben had just called him, but nodded appreciatively before he turned to you, offering his hand.

“What are you doing?” you asked.

“Opening the dance? The music has just started and Slughorn told me I should do it.”

You shook your head smiling, took his hand and let him take you over to the dance floor.

“For someone who accused me of being cruel, you’re doing a very good job yourself, you know,” you said, keeping an eye out for Freda, in case she planned on hexing you. Better safe than sorry. 

“Ah, she’ll be fine,” Tom assured. “Or would you have preferred if I took her to dance?”

The question didn't need an answer, so you just gave him a knowing look when you arrived on the dance floor, where you got in position. Tom placed his hand on your waist and took your right hand in his other one, holding both of them upright below shoulder height. All the guests had gathered around the floor, waiting for you to start dancing. Luckily there wasn’t enough time to get too nervous. It had all happened in a matter of moments.

“You know how to waltz, right?” Tom asked.

“It’s been a while, but-”

“Doesn’t matter, I’ll lead,” he said and took the first step, spinning in circles in three-four time.

Tom was a good dancer, which wasn’t surprising. He probably had taken courses some years ago, just like you, upon your parent’s request. You kept up with him quite well, only taking a wrong step every now and then.

“If I had known, I would’ve practised…”

“It’s alright, people will join in soon. You’re doing well,” he reassured you and lightly squeezed your waist.

The fact that you had never been so close to him for more than a few seconds became more apparent the longer he held onto you. Suddenly the spinning felt faster, all eyes focusing on you, burning holes right through you. The only thing steadying you was Tom and his hands. You spotted Camille in the crowd, who was smiling at you, holding up her hand and giving you a thumbs up. That made you feel a bit more at ease, so you let Tom lead you round the floor, twirling away from people’s stares. Finally, halfway through the song, pairs of people joined in and filled up the dance floor, leaving not much room to be glared at.

Tom looked at you, a proud smile adorning his face, his eyes softer than you had ever witnessed before.

“What’s that I’m seeing there?” you asked. “A genuine smile? Certainly a rare sight.”

He swallowed, not changing his expression. “Camille was right.”

“She usually is. But what do you mean?”

“Earlier, when we went up to them. She said you look beautiful. You do.”

People’s faces around you seemed to blur and you couldn’t hear them properly anymore. The only thing you saw was Tom’s face and how his eyes still stared into yours. It felt as if you weren’t dancing anymore, but rather floating above the ground, a swarm of butterflies emerging from your stomach. Your hand went from Tom’s shoulder behind his neck on its own and pulled him closer. Closer, just a tiny bit closer, so that you were able to view every single one of his eyelashes. His chest bumped against you and his cologne tickled your nose. You let yourself sink into the smell of bergamot and lemon, feeling how his hand squeezed your waist a bit tighter by the second.

Closer, until you both shut your eyes and your lips met in the middle, kissing Tom right out there on the dance floor. You were the only people who had stopped spinning, even though it still felt like you spiralled around a hundred miles an hour. Butterflies turned into aeroplanes, rotating and crashing gently against each other, just like the two of you.

Masterpost | Masterlist | Part 9

Tags: @ariachaos

[daceydeath]

Skz as the father when you go into labor

Pairing: OT8 x reader Word Count: 2.2k Genre: Fluff, Comedy. Warnings: Swearing, fainting, Stray Kids chaos (is that a warning though?)

A/N: This is just for fun, it was something that I thought up after telling a friend what I went through when I had my kid so please don't take it too seriously.

How Stray Kids would react as your partner when you go into labor with their child.

Chan:

When you and Chan got together, he had been very honest that he did want to be a father someday and you were grateful for that since it meant you weren't going to be wasting your time if this was where the relationship ended up.

After a year he proposed and told you he was ready to settle down now with you so you stopped taking your birth control and decided to see what happened.

It took 6 months for you to fall pregnant and when you found out he actually cried. So excited for the future of his little family.

Your waters broke just after you ate dinner and while Chan was on his way home rather than causing him any panic you simply sat on a towel and waited for him to come home

When he walks in drops his stuff and comes into the lounge he sees you scrolling your phone on a plastic chair.

"What's going on baby? Why aren't you relaxing on the couch?"

"My waters broke" you smile looking both scared and excited.

"Show time then" He grinned looking so excited he might burst.

He leaves you sitting there while he gets your hospital bag, the baby bag, his bag, your birth plan and your medical records before helping you to stand.

"I will need the towel too my love, otherwise I am going to destroy the car seat" you laugh when he pulls a face. "We are not even at the gross bit yet".

"I know and it's fine I'm ready for anything and so are you baby".

Lee Know:

You had met after bumping into each other, quite literally, at a JYP event, where you were working as a waitress. He had apologized profusely for causing the accident, that was not entirely his fault.

After the event was winding down he had asked a co-worker of yours if you were still there so he could check on you one last time before he left. The conversation went well and you ended up with his number and a date and time for your first date with him.

You were both totally happy with just having your cat children until you went to the doctors after feeling off and found out you were actually pregnant. He took it really well getting excited that he would be a father and that his child would have you as it's mother.

Your waters broke while he was filming a few hours out of Seoul so you had called his parents to take you to the hospital. You had phoned him after you had spoken to them and he instantly was yelling to Chan that it was happening and he needed to go right now.

You could hear the cheers from the others as he collected his stuff and you could also hear Chan telling him to breathe and think so he didn't have an accident.

By the time he got to you he was almost back to his normal self the only give away to you that he was at all nervous was the occasional fidgeting.

"Everything will be fine kitten this hospital has the best doctors".

Changbin:

You had met after being set up by some mutual friends who thought you would suit each other, and they had been right, Changbin was everything you had wanted in a boyfriend and eventually a husband.

He had proposed to you at Christmas and you had begun planning your wedding when the slight spanner of a world tour came about, putting your nuptials on the back burner for the time being.

In a break in the tour they all came home for a few weeks and by the time he got back the the US to continue the tour you had discovered you were pregnant.

You told him over face time which turned into him yelling so much his members all broke into his room piled in to see what had happened only for you to repeat the news and start him up again.

He insisted that you let him call his parents and arrange with them for you to either stay with them or have his mum stay with you to take care of him while he was away. He also made sure Chan could make sure that your due dates wouldn't clash with any other schedules.

When you finally went into labor he had moved your mum and sister in with you both so that you would never be alone in case something happened. So when your waters finally broke all four of you were there which was a blessing you had his sister to help you get organized and in the car an his mum to help calm him down as he started yelling at the top of his voice.

"Yah! my baby is having my baby" he shouted.

"Calm down it's not instant" his mother scolded as he carried the bags to the car.

Hyunjin:

You and Hyunjin had sort of fallen together in a sort of oops I fell in love with you sort of way after becoming friends while he was filming a three part SKZ Talker.

It was a pretty whirlwind romance with him telling you in a matter of months he was going to marry you when the company gave them all a decent break and because of that you had also quickly fallen pregnant.

Hyunjin had taken the news well he was surprised but happy his parents were shocked but happy and Kkami tolerated you so everything was pretty much perfect.

Hyunjin proposed within a few days and told the members what was happening telling them that the next decent break you were getting married so that you could be the perfect family.

When your waters broke you were visiting him at the studio, it wasn't a gallons of fluid situation just a small popping sensation and slight trickle that made you gasp.

"What's wrong my love?" he frowned thinking you had hurt yourself.

"Baby, my waters just went" you smiled wide eyes and slightly surprised.

"What! Right now! You're having the baby now!" he shrieked before almost slumping against Felix who looked panicked and lowered him to the floor.

"Who ever bet against him fainting owes me money" you announced calling your future mother in law who was staying with you as Chan tried to rouse Hyunjin.

"Hi Mum... my waters went.... yes I told Hyunjin... no he's passed out...yes that is what I thought too" you sighed looking at your fiancé fondly.

Han:

After marrying Han he had told you that although he wanted kids he was in no rush so when it happened it happened, you were thrilled with this since it meant there was no pressure on either of you so you simply enjoyed married life.

So almost two years later when you watched the pregnancy test say thee weeks+ you were thrilled and so was Han holding you so tight and telling you how wonderful you would be as a mother.

Your pregnancy was not easy and you were sick constantly But Han was always there telling you how well you were doing even if you felt awful.

Your waters broke on the way back from the bathroom in the middle of the night and you fumbled around to turn on your bed side lamp.

"What's wrong baby?" he mumbled lifting his head slightly off the pillow.

"My waters have just broken" you whispered in confusion.

"Shit I'm on it" he yelped rolling out of bed and putting on one sock before coming around the bed to help you.

"One sock will help how?" you giggled as he quickly woke up properly.

"Umm don't really know to be honest" He flushed looking at the water on the floor and not moving.

"Can you get my hospital bag please? just checked it's zipped up before you grab it" you smiled knowing that he was trying his best.

"Of course....I think the car is out of fuel we will need to get some on the way" he blurted looking at you with big eyes as he picked up your bag not checking the zipper and sending things everywhere.

"Uhuh we are soooo ready for this" you laughed properly this time.

Felix:

You had met and married Felix within a year, he was the most caring, sweet and loving person you had ever met and you were as sure as he was that you were meant to be.

Felix had long proved to you that he was always going to put you and your wishes first when it came to the birth of your first child so when he went to Chan and the other members to tell them that you wanted to give birth in your home country with your mum by your side they were surprised but supportive.

Chan had arranged for Felix to go on a hiatus with the company to ensure a little privacy for you both and the company had agreed that when you returned they would not confirm or deny any rumors on your behalf unless you both wanted to make it public that you were now parents.

When your waters finally went you were both feeling so excited that there was little room for worry, Felix had everything ready to go and held your hand the whole way to the hospital while he drove. Your mum met you there and he was adamant with all the nurses and midwives that the pair of them were going to stay with you regardless of what happened.

Spends the whole time you check in and get comfortable in the hospital either holding you, kissing your forehead or holding your hand for support.

"You are doing amazing cupcake, but if you need anything you tell me and I will make it happen".

Seungmin:

Seugmin was your dream husband, he was so caring and soft with you but also trusted you fully to live your life independently from him when he was away on activities or on tour.

You had been married for five years before you even brought up the possibility of having a child and he couldn't have been more excited asking if you could start trying straight away. Which you did throwing away your birth control and hoping for the best you fell pregnant far more quickly than you expected, within a month, which was a blessing and also made Seungmin insanely smug.

Your waters broke during the first snow of the season and Seungmin was much calmer than you telling you that he had already had your hospital bag and the babies bag already packed in the car, he made sure that they had been there for the last two weeks. You laughed and kissed him on the cheek while he tried his best to get your very pregnant body into you not designed for pregnancy winter coat.

"Well this is not going to work" he muttered to himself mainly quickly trying to think up what to do next "Here I'll wrap you in this and then you will stay warm"

"Min that is the blanket from our bed" you giggled as he made you a sort of cape/toga hybrid to wear.

"I didn't factor in the whole coat scenario alright but I have everything else totally under control".

I.N

You and Jeongin had met through friends, you had clicked and your relationship always felt easy and loving. So no one was shocked when he proposed after almost a year together.

Although you had gotten engaged neither of you had even talked about having a baby the test you took for a prank showing two pink lines made the conversation happen pretty darn quick.

Although both of you were scared of how big a responsibility having a child was going to be you quickly realized that having a child with Jeongin would be a wonderful thing, he was going to be a wonderful father so it was going to be alright.

When your waters broke Jeongin tried his very best to not panic, while you called the hospital he called Chan. While you called your mum he called Lee Know and when you called his mum he called Changbin. The three of which all turned up pretty damn fast if you really had bothered to stop and think about it.

"Alright, I have the car running" Chan announced letting himself into your apartment.

"Are the bags in your room or the nursery?" Changbin called walking straight through to get them for you.

"It's important you stay hydrated and try to eat something now to keep your strength up, I've bought all the snacks you will need for at least the rest of today depending on how it all goes" Lee Know smiled softly handing you the bag before patting Jeongin on the shoulder.

"Are you going to help the mother of your child to the car or should I?" Chan smiled softly taking your hand and leading you to the front door to put some shoes on you.

"Oh... I'm on it" Jeongin nodded trying to look like he was holding it all together as Changbin walked passed with the bags and Lee Know picked up your cat to take back to his place until you were home again.

"I didn't realize you were going to need back up" you laughed softly as Jeongin shut the apartment door behind you all making him blush.

Taglist (open): @christopher-bangnaldoskzz, @armystay899, @damnyouficcc, @roamingpolar, @tara-skyhold, @bakedlilgoonienie,

[fangirlingfromdownunder]

A Sweet Mishap - Chapter 3

Pairing - Jensen Ackles x Reader 

A/N: If you read my Christmas Advent stories then you may be familiar with this story already, however, I've been working hard to turn it into a longer fic and as such a few things have changed (hence the reposts). New chapters will commence next week. I hope you enjoy! Let me know if you want me to be added to the taglist

A Sweet Mishap Masterlist | Main Masterlist

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

Jensen and I continue texting whenever we can around our busy schedules. I consider more than a few times over the weekend to throw caution to the wind and meet up with him in his hotel room or invite him to my apartment. But in the end, I manage to stay strong, stick to my convictions and better judgements regarding my safety, and text instead. Despite not having the courage to call, it feels like we’re building a connection. But even if I had the courage, he’s been pretty busy and the texts have been sporadic with replies coming in hours apart. He did say he had to work, so I just figure he’s busy with auditions or meetings and am grateful for him making the time to text amidst the chaos. 

One thing I do is Google his name to find out what he’s starred in. His biggest project appears to be a horror show called Supernatural. I consider watching it just to see, but I don’t want to get a false idea of who he is, so I decide to stay blissfully ignorant and try to get to know him for who he is as a person instead. He did say he preferred that, after all.

It’s almost dark when I finally strip off my apron and hang it on the hook in the staff room. I collect my phone and jacket from the locker and return to the dining area to leave. I check my missed notifications as I walk out. I find my mood dropping slightly when I discover there’s none from Jensen. Instead, I scroll through our last text-chain. Suddenly, I collide with something solid–or perhaps I should say, someone, causing my phone to shatter to the floor. I quickly duck down to inspect the screen, only to find it littered with cracks. I sigh and then remember the person I ran into. I look up to apologise but lose all words when I meet his emerald eyes. I just smile in shock. Even with his pulled-down baseball cap and dark sunglasses, and after a single meeting, I instantly recognise him.

“You really gotta stop running into me like this,” the man says with a laugh.

“Can I buy you a drink to make up for it?”

“As I recall, that didn’t end well. Regardless, I can’t stay long, I do have a flight to catch. I just really wanted to see you again before I left.”

“You sure you can’t stay?”

“I’m sure. Someday. Let’s just promise to stay in touch.”

“I promise. At least just let me make you something for the road.”

“You look like you’ve already finished for the day. Go rest. You look exhausted. We’ll talk later.”

“Alright. Have a safe flight.”

He pulls me in for a brief hug and then disappears out onto the street and into a dark Range Rover. I smile at the whirlwind visit and then go back to my apartment. I throw a microwave mac and cheese dinner in to cook while I shower and change into my worn-out PJs, which consist of an oversized sweater with a teddy on the front and pink, plaid flannel pants. I’m not sure how long his flight will be but by the time I sit on the couch with my cheap and unappealing dinner in my lap, over an hour has passed. Despite not knowing when he’ll see the message, I decide to text him anyway.

It was great to run into you again *literally*... I am sorry about that, I really need to watch where I’m going Have a nice flight home or wherever you’re going Text me when you get there 

Not expecting a response until later, I put your phone to sleep and flick through the TV channels. To my surprise, Supernatural is airing. I have no idea what episode or season it is, or what they’re up to, but when Jensen’s face appears on the screen I’m unable to bring myself to change the channel. Despite my initial desire to stay ignorant, I just can’t look away. I gasp and try to resist the urge to look away when his character, who you’ve gathered is called Dean, slices off someone or something’s head. But somehow he manages to make decapitation attractive. Every expression on his face keeps my eyes glued and I find myself getting even more engrossed. He tells the story so well even though I don’t really know what the full story is. His taller brother in the show is also incredibly attractive. The longer I watch, the more I find myself not caring about the plot and just enjoying the eye candy instead. Part of me feels a little guilty for looking and thinking about Jensen like that when he seems like such a nice, genuine guy in real life. And he genuinely seems interested in pursuing a friendship — or hopefully more — in the future. 

Once the episode ends I force myself to switch off the TV, clean up and go to bed; I have another early shift tomorrow. As I lay in bed, the images of Dean – or Jensen – flow through my head. Unable to sleep, Idecide to text him again.

I guess you’re still on your flight Just wanted to let you know I saw you on TV tonight Your show Supernatural was on when I was flicking through the channels Can’t say as I picked up on a lot of the plot but I can see why the paparazzi follow you Anyway, I’ll stop bombarding you now Good night

I force myself to switch my phone onto sleep mode and plug it in to charge. As I lay in bed, I relive the impromptu meeting until I finally fall asleep.

─── ⋆⋅☆⋅⋆ ───

Taglist: @stoneyggirl2

[shewasverynice]

Fandoms: 呪術廻戦 | Jujutsu Kaisen 

⚠️ SPOILER HEAVY ⚠️

Major Warnings: Graphic Depictions Of Violence, Major Character Death 

Full tags/warnings on Chapter links post

Major Characters: Original Character, Gojo Satoru, Geto Suguru, Ieiri Shoko, Yaga Masamichi, Nanami Kento, Haibara Yu, Tsukumo Yuki, Choso

‎‧₊˚✧ Chapter 11 ✧˚₊‧

"Happy Halloween!!" Sarah and Suguru shouted, slamming Satoru's dorm room open on a crisp and beautiful Halloween morning.

"S'not evenmm--" he mumbled, barely opening one eye to look at the clock, "Sun's'not evn up yet..."

"That's 'cos we got stuff to do!" Sarah said, appearing right in his face and making him jump back, "C'mon sleepyhead! We gotta get ready!"

He yawned, slamming his face back into his pillow and stretching his legs out. He flexed his toes, the whole bed shaking as he let out that very necessary groan we all have to do when you get a really good stretch going.

"Are we going somewhere or something?" He mumbled, sitting up and letting his head rest on the headboard.

"We're gonna go find Himuro Manor!" Sarah reminded him, "It doesn't have an exact location so we'll have to just look around."

"Oh, right," he sighed, rubbing his eyes with his finger tips, "The Fatal Frame house... So it was real?"

"It's already become real through a curse," Suguru said with a shrug, "I'm sure we can find it if we follow the legends about it."

"And if we don't, then we'll just spend the whole day and night in the woods having so much fun," Satoru said sarcastically, reaching into his drawer for a clean shirt.

Sarah automatically faced away as he started to change, sitting on the end of the bed, "But if we actually find it, we can play like ghost hunters!"

"There's no such thing as ghosts," Satoru said with a roll of his eyes, "It's not ghosts. Just curses."

"Pfff," Sarah rolled her eyes with just as much sass, "Curses and ghosts are the same thing."

"Curses can kill you, a ghost isn't real and so it can't," he said with a sneer, "Two different things."

"Okay well let's just pretend they're ghosts then," Sarah huffed, "Be cool, Glacier Freeze."

Suguru stepped in between before they started to really get worked up. He grabbed both of them by the collars of their shirts and pulled them along with a shake of his head. "Too early for sass," he said, "Let's go. We have a drive ahead."

The day before they'd already prepped everything they might need for a long adventure in the woods. Everything vital like snacks and soda and a couple flashlights, all the important stuff of course. Convincing a manager in training to drive them there was the most difficult part, really. They had to offer to cover for him on three nights coming up, around Christmas time of course, but the price was easily worth it.

"What's so special about this place anyway?" Satoru asked with a heavy sigh, buckling into his seat a half hour later, "I barely remember that game. The second one was way better, yeah?"

"It was," Sarah agreed, "But this one was set in just the mansion so it was probably easier for the collective consciousness to make."

"Well maybe nostalgia for the second one will manifest a real village someday," Suguru said with a shrug, "We are lucky we could make this happen at all. Normally they don't let the first years do investigations."

"What did you tell Yaga?" Shoko asked, "How did you convince him?"

"I just asked," Suguru said with a shrug, but a certain twinkle in his eye told Shoko it was better not to ask right then. She raised her brows and simply continued with, "So are we just playing around or are we actually going to exorcise it?"

"Fun first, kill it after," Satoru said, adjusting his shirt while he slouched down, "We can play around in the spooky house for a bit and then take out the curse when we're done."

"Does this count as my first mission?!" Sarah said excitedly and Satoru patted her head. She swatted at his hand and he grinned at her.

"Don't worry, I'll keep my cute little underclassman safe," he teased then smirked as she slapped at the infinity between them when he kept her flying fists away.

"When we find a ghost imma make it haunt you!" She huffed, and he cackled as he leaned back in his seat.

⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂⠁⠁⠂⠄⠄⠂ ⠂⠄⠄⠂☆

The old manor loomed before them, nearly swallowed by the encroaching woods. Its darkened wood, once richly brown and varnished, had faded to a splotchy gray-black under years of relentless weather. In some places, ivy and twisting vines crawled up its walls, disappearing into crevices and windows like nature’s attempt to reclaim it entirely. Trees grew so close to the structure that their branches scratched against the eaves with the barest breeze, their roots winding thickly around the foundation like the gnarled fingers of some ancient guardian.

The air around them felt strangely thick, muted as if wrapped in a damp, musty blanket. The forest at night was utterly still, almost unnaturally so. Not a single cricket chirped; not a single leaf rustled. It was as though every living creature, from the tiniest bug to the tallest tree, held its breath, wary of breaking the heavy silence that blanketed the woods. Even the wind dared not disturb the silence, making the night feel like a quiet void around the old manor.

As Shoko, Suguru, Satoru, and Sarah approached the crooked steps leading to the main entrance, the floorboards creaked ominously beneath their feet. Each step groaned in protest, some splintered and fraying at the edges, threatening to snap under their weight. The smell of rot and damp wood mixed with the faint, lingering scent of old incense, as if the place still clung to memories of its past.

When they finally reached the heavy front door, Satoru pushed it open with a slight shove. It dragged against the floor with a low, tortured groan. As they stepped inside, a sudden chill cut through the air. It was colder than it had any right to be, a biting sort of cold that sank right to the bones and carried with it the unmistakable, thick scent of dust and decay. Everything felt heavy, untouched for decades, as if a single breath might disturb the dust hanging in the air.

"So uh..." Shoko whispered, reaching for her flashlight in her bag, "What was the haunting caused by in that game?"

"Oh, well they used to do a strangling ritual here," Sarah explained, walking up to look at a wall scroll that nature was melting slowly, "It was to keep the darkness trapped in this big spooky well."

"The malic I think it was called," Suguru added, then sighed, "And all of the ghosts had died to the curse, didn't they?"

"Not a curse!" Sarah said, pointing at him, "Ghosts! It was ghosts that got them and made more ghosts!"

"Right," Satoru grunted as he squatted down to pull more flashlights out of his bag, "So let's play along, right? We can play like the game and take a bunch of weird photos!"

"Did you bring a camera?" Sarah asked.

"Phone?" Satoru said sheepishly.

"That's not the same," Sarah sighed, "It was specifically the Camera Obscura that could catch the ghosts." Then she suddenly froze, gripping Suguru's sleeve, "Oh! We could just try to find it right?! Maybe it's just in here!"

"It's not gonna be exactly like the game," Satoru scoffed, "You shouldn't get your hopes up."

"Watch this though..." She said, walking down the hallway. She called back, "If I'm right then... The camera should be..."

She screamed as the shadowy figure of a man passed in front of her. She would have fallen back on her ass if Suguru and Satoru hadn't rushed up behind her, ready to fight.

"What?!" Satoru looked left and right down the corridor, "What was it?!"

"It was a ghost!" She stammered, "One of the people killed by the darkness!"

"Oh my god," Satoru groaned, "No it wasn't, shut up."

"It was!!" She insisted, staggering to her feet, "I swear it was!"

"So where's the camera then?" Shoko asked, looking down the hall.

Sarah pushed a broken screen aside and practically threw herself back pointing at the camera on the ground. Satoru and Suguru both narrowed their eyes, rushing over to squat down and look at it. "There's no way..." Suguru muttered, reaching out to take it. Satoru stopped him, then grinned.

"Nah, wait, let's play along," Satoru said, looking over his shoulder to Sarah, "Right?!"

"Yes!" Sarah scrambled over, picking up the camera, "Absolutely yes! Let's go! Right now!"

"Do you two remember the story?" Suguru asked, "I don't know if I do after so long."

"I... Don't." Satoru admitted, watching Sarah fiddle with the camera, "I think the character was a girl who lost her brother, right? He was researching the haunting here or something?"

"Yeah," Sarah nodded when she looked up from the camera, "And then he got killed by the ghost in the fireplace room and his sister came to check on him."

"So let me just make sure I heard that right," Shoko sighed, "We need to take pictures of the ghosts to exorcise them? Is that how this game works?"

"Yeah! The camera steals their souls and stuff and--"

"Okay," Shoko cut her off, "Alright, fine. Let's just go get this over with."

"Oh?" Satoru grinned, leaning with his arm on Shoko's shoulder, "You scared?"

She rolled her eyes, "No, but I don't really think this is the best place for Sarah and I. These ghosts are dangerous--"

"Curses," Satoru corrected her and she huffed before he continued, "And you have Suguru and I here! There's nothing to be afraid of!"

"Of course," Suguru agreed, "Nothing will happen to either of you."

"But what if we get separated?" Shoko asked, "That kind of thing always happens in these kinds of games."

"Pfft," Satoru waved his hand dismissively, "Don't be ridiculous. How could we get separated? It's just one building, we can't get lost in such a small place."

The manor had a way of pulling them apart, as if its very walls shifted to separate the four friends. Shoko and Sarah ended up on the far side of the house, where they stumbled into a dilapidated kitchen. A low, flickering light barely illuminated the room through grimy windows, casting shadows that seemed to twist and move on their own. The air was thick with the sour smell of mildew and something metallic—rust, perhaps, or the faint stain of old blood long dried. Every surface was coated with a thin layer of dust, untouched but for the occasional smear where something unseen had disturbed it.

Shoko moved carefully, eyes narrowing as she scanned the dark corners. "We should have brought something sharp," she muttered, annoyance crossing her face as she dug through drawers filled with cracked wooden spoons and broken bits of porcelain. A glint of metal caught her eye, and she pulled out a tarnished butcher knife, testing its weight in her hand. "Better than nothing, I guess."

Sarah kept her distance, glancing around nervously. “Anything about this place actually seem like it belongs in a kitchen?” she asked, eyeing the blackened stove and mold-ridden walls.

Shoko shrugged, her attention still on the drawers. "It’s probably been cursed for so long, it doesn’t know what it is anymore."

Meanwhile, Suguru wandered down a series of narrow, winding corridors, the wood creaking beneath his every step. Here, the walls seemed to close in tighter, bending and warping in places, as if they were alive and breathing around him. A faint, translucent figure flitted past, its face half-formed, looking as though it might disappear entirely if Suguru blinked too hard.

He chuckled softly to himself. "So, are you all separate spirits, or is this one big curse controlling everything?" he wondered aloud, as if expecting the house to answer. It was hard to tell in such a place, where curses lingered in every shadow, in every draft of cold air that seemed to sweep through the hall with a sigh. He felt a pull toward each apparition he passed, his curiosity ignited as he tried to sense if they were fragments of one larger entity or isolated curses.

Above them all, Satoru found himself standing alone in the cramped, cobweb-strewn attic. He'd somehow managed to hold onto the Camera Obscura. Now, if he could only figure out how to get the damn film in they could actually play the game

"Stupid thing," he muttered under his breath, squinting at the camera and attempting to load the film. His fingers fumbled with the film reel, the stubborn old device refusing to cooperate. He sighed, pressing harder than necessary, frustration building.

Behind him, a faint, icy whisper filled the air, the sound of creaking footsteps creeping closer. The temperature plummeted, and a ghastly, translucent figure loomed behind him, stretching a pale hand forward.

Without even glancing up, Satoru lifted one hand, releasing a sharp pulse of cursed energy that hit the ghost with a force that disintegrated it instantly. He went right back to struggling with the film, muttering, "Stupid old thing. Why is it always the oldest shit?"

Shoko and Sarah moved cautiously down the wooden hall, which felt endless, lined with crumbling walls blackened by age and water damage. Most of the paper screens had melted away, leaving jagged edges flapping in the occasional gust of cold air that seeped through cracks. It was as though the entire manor had been left to rot, assaulted by wind and rain until only the skeleton of its former grandeur remained. The air was thick and damp, and the boards creaked beneath their steps, echoing like whispers in the emptiness around them.

Sarah glanced at the ruined screens and recognized bits and pieces of the layout, but the decay made the space seem foreign and wrong. The house she remembered had not felt so terrifying on the TV and the real life version wasn't as easy to navigate as she hoped. They peeked into each room, nudging open the doors that could still slide, finding each space abandoned and stripped bare, only scraps of paper and tatami mats clinging to the floors.

Then, in a dark, shadowed corner of one room, something caught their eye—a small roll of film, resting atop a low table covered in a thick layer of dust. They both reached for it, excited by the unexpected find.

But before their hands could touch the film, a soft hissing rose from the floorboards. The shadows twisted and coalesced, rising up in a mass that took shape—a ghost with shriveled, hollow eyes and an agonized expression, its mouth frozen in a perpetual choke. It crawled upward, its skeletal hands stretching toward them, a hoarse wheeze escaping its lips as if it had been denied breath for centuries.

Shoko and Sarah screamed, stumbling back. Their voices carried through the empty halls, echoing in the dark spaces of the manor.

In an instant, both Satoru and Suguru heard them from their separate locations. Suguru took off at a sprint, his footsteps pounding through the halls, dodging splintered beams and ducking under fallen rafters. But Satoru opted for the most direct route. He blasted through the floorboards, one level down, then another, smashing his way through rotting wood and debris until he crashed into the room, scattering dust and splinters everywhere.

He raised his hand, a glint of cursed energy forming, ready to obliterate the spirit—but before he could release it, Sarah snatched the Camera Obscura from his grip. Her hands shook, but she moved quick, finally managing to load the film with one swift click.

She raised the camera, aimed it at the ghost, and pressed the shutter.

The camera’s flash went off, the room illuminated in a harsh burst of light. The ghost let out a bone-chilling shriek as it reared back, its form wavering and dissolving, until finally it disintegrated into nothing. The room returned to silence, the faint odor of charred wood and decay lingering in the air.

Satoru stared at the empty space where the ghost had been, wide-eyed, then glanced down at the Camera Obscura in Sarah's hands. Shoko, equally stunned, glanced between Sarah and the camera.

"Did that�� actually work?" Shoko breathed, disbelief etched on her face.

Satoru blinked, then broke into a wide grin. "Guess we have a new ghostbuster on the team," he teased, nudging Sarah with his elbow.

Sarah, catching her breath, managed a shaky grin. "I knew it. We got this in the bag now!"

Suguru arrived just moments after the spirit vanished, skidding to a halt and glancing around the dust-laden room. Before he could ask, Sarah spun toward him, beaming as she held up the camera. "Geto! It worked!" she announced, almost bouncing on her heels.

Suguru chuckled, patting her head gently as she grinned up at him. "Nice job. That's really exciting," he said, warmth in his eyes.

Sarah and Shoko, energized by their victory, wandered over to the table littered with dusty rolls of film, muttering to each other excitedly as they examined their findings. Suguru took a moment to lean closer to Satoru, his brow furrowed with curiosity. “So,” he started, keeping his voice low, “any thoughts on what we’re actually dealing with here?”

Satoru gave a casual shrug, crossing his arms as he looked around the dark, decaying room. “From what I can see, it’s one curse," he said thoughtfully, "not multiple spirits or entities. But here’s what’s weird.” He leaned closer to Suguru, eyes glinting with intrigue. "When Sarah took that picture, it felt like the cursed energy didn’t just disappear—it dissolved. Like, I don’t know… cotton candy in water.”

Suguru smirked at the comparison, unable to suppress a chuckle. "Cotton candy, huh?”

“Hey, just telling it how I see it,” Satoru grinned. “But yeah, if that’s how it’s reacting to the camera, it should work to exorcise the curse completely. It’s like the energy is unraveling at the core. But,” he added, his tone a bit more serious, “if they actually end up in trouble, we’ll need to step in fast. The curse won't go down without a fight.”

Suguru nodded, the lightness in his gaze hardening with resolve. “Agreed. Let’s keep an eye on them, then—”

He cut off, turning back to where the girls had been standing, only to find empty space. He blinked, exasperated but amused. “Well, damn.”

Satoru snorted, rubbing the back of his neck. “Typical.”

Shoko realized they’d somehow ended up alone again, standing in what used to be a bedroom but now looked more like a crumbling nightmare. Shadows crept along the walls, and what remained of the tatami flooring creaked beneath their weight. Shoko let out a quiet sigh, muttering under her breath as she pulled out her knife, infusing it with cursed energy. The blade took on a faint glow, casting ghostly light in the dark room. She glanced at Sarah, who clutched the camera tightly, her fingers trembling slightly.

"Keep that camera ready, okay?" Shoko said, nudging her with a reassuring smile.

“Got it!” Sarah said, trying to sound steady, though Shoko could see her knuckles whitening around the camera. They made their way into the hall, stepping carefully around cracked wood and holes in the floor. Every so often, a faint figure would flicker into view—a blurry, shadowed ghost moving towards them. Each time, Sarah snapped a picture, and the figures dissipated with a faint wail, leaving only a heavy chill in the air. None of the ghosts seemed particularly aggressive, but Sarah’s excitement was palpable.

“So��where are we going, exactly?” Shoko asked, keeping her voice low.

“Well,” Sarah said, her eyes gleaming, “in the game, the first boss was this editor—used to work for some kind of paranormal magazine or something. His ghost haunts this house because he died from the curse.”

Shoko raised an eyebrow. “And how are we supposed to find him?”

“Uh, clues,” Sarah said, her voice trailing off as she scratched the back of her head. “You know…find the clues and follow them…”

“Right,” Shoko drawled, smirking, “You remember where they are?”

Sarah’s sheepish laugh was all the answer she needed.

Meanwhile, elsewhere in the mansion, Suguru and Satoru moved through the dark halls with little care. Shadows slipped around them, but they barely gave them a glance, dismissing each cursed spirit with a flick of their cursed energy. If anything, they looked bored, like they were on a leisurely stroll rather than inside a haunted house.

Suguru suddenly narrowed his eyes as he was mulling over the recent events. He stopped in his tracks and looked at Satoru. "If... The Camera Obscura is just part of the curse then how is it actually able to exorcise the curses?" He asked.

Satoru, who was a few steps ahead scoping out a ruined dining room, turned to him. He looked ready to answer before his brows furrowed and he said, "Y'know I hadn't thought of that. If anything the curses should just be recycling in on themselves."

"You mentioned before that she had a strange second energy, right?" Suguru asked, crossing his arms and putting one hand to his chin.

"Yeah," Satoru nodded, pushing at a broken screen with the toe of his shoes, "Think maybe that's what it is?"

"Well," Suguru tapped his chin, "It's definitely a possibility. Especially with what Yaga told us."

"Oh yeah, what did he say anyway?" Satoru asked, shoving the rest of the door aside.

"He said he'd allow her to go only if we could ensure her safety, which naturally we can, and we have her exorcise at least one curse," he explained, "I wonder if he wanted to see if her power works differently than ours?"

"Well, clearly it does," Satoru said, "Since it still can exorcise a curse using its own cursed energy. Maybe her stuff just blends in?"

"Oh, that could be," Suguru said, blasting a ghost apart as it tried to leap at him from inside the room.

"If I were to call it anything, I'd say it's like the opposite of cursed energy," Satoru explained, "Like... Divine energy, I guess? Hard to say since I've never seen anything like that."

"Divine energy would probably fit the bill," Suguru agreed, "Since it can resurrect and repels cursed energy but also draw curses in."

"It's weird though, right?" Satoru asked, crossing his arms, "Why haven't we seen it before? Never, even going to other countries have I seen it before. What's different about her?"

Suguru smiled, "Well, I suppose it's something to do with her bloodline. We could research it?"

"I tried," Satoru sighed, "The oldies blocked me from every angle. I guess I could call in the family to do it, but I don't really want them to know I know about her."

"It might be necessary, unfortunately," Suguru said, "Because it's not likely they'll let us find out more than we've already figured out. Yaga has already put himself at risk by telling us anything at all."

"Well, he'll be fine," Satoru shrugged, "We just won't let them threaten him. The geezers can't stop us." He smiled, then added, "Alright, I'll hit up gramps when we get this done. Let's see what he'll spill."

The hallway seemed to stretch endlessly as Sarah and Shoko bolted down it, their breathing ragged as they jumped over splintered wood and ducked under fallen beams. Dust and rot filled the air, thickening with each frantic step as the heavy footsteps of the ghost followed close behind. It was the spirit of a young woman, her modern clothes a stark contrast to the decrepit mansion. Her skin was marred with rope burns, deep and bruised, and her pale face contorted in anger. She was faster than any of the ghosts they’d seen before, and her hands reached out, long fingers curling as if to snatch them.

“Can’t… you just… stab it?” Sarah gasped, struggling with the camera’s film as she stumbled alongside Shoko.

“Not this one!” Shoko replied, not slowing her pace. “It’s too strong—just get the film in!”

Sarah fumbled with the camera, trying to load the film, her hands trembling as she struggled to fit it into the slot. “Come on, come on!” she muttered, wincing as the camera’s metal edge bit into her finger. She stifled a curse as blood welled up and dripped onto the film. Her frustration turned to determination, and with a final push, she finally slid the film into place.

“Got it!” she exclaimed, whipping around, but in her haste, she stumbled back into Shoko, who grabbed her shoulders, steadying them both as the spirit bore down on them.

Sarah lifted the camera, hands shaking, and with a hard click, the flash erupted into a golden blaze. The light filled the hallway, illuminating the ghost's face in an almost surreal glow. For a split second, her eyes softened, the fury and anguish replaced by a fleeting calm. In that one instant, her expression looked almost… at peace. The image was brief, a single heartbeat, before she vanished in a swirl of light and cold air.

Shoko stared, her eyes wide, breathing heavily as the afterimage lingered in her vision. “Did… did you see that?” she whispered, stunned.

Sarah nodded, her grip tightening on the camera as she tried to catch her breath. “Yeah… she looked almost…” She trailed off, too rattled to find the words.

Far across the mansion, both Suguru and Satoru felt the powerful shift in cursed energy—a flicker of something heavy, then lighter, as if the curse had dispersed. Without a word, they exchanged a look of understanding and immediately set off, weaving through halls and stairways as they made their way toward the girls.

Satoru moved quickly, his grin vanishing as he sped up, cutting through obstacles with swift blasts of cursed energy, his eyes sharper than usual. Suguru, meanwhile, kept his cursed spirits at the ready, his footsteps quiet but purposeful as he wound through the mansion.

When they finally found the girls again, Shoko and Sarah were still sitting on the ground catching their breath. Satoru sauntered over, leaning on the wall looking smug.

"So, how's the photo taking going?" He asked.

"Cut the crap," Shoko huffed, "You felt that right? That bright light? Was that her?" She pointed at Sarah who blinked and looked between the two of them.

"Yeah," Satoru nodded, "That's what I was talking about."

"It's so... Soft," Shoko said, looking at Sarah and tilting her head, "The curse seemed happy before it was erased."

Now that was new. Satoru furrowed his brow. "Happy? Like when you unravel a curse rather than exorcise it?"

Shoko nodded, "Yeah, exactly. It was super weird!"

"Huh?" Sarah stood up, "That's not how it's supposed to go?"

"No," Satoru said, "Is that the first time you've seen a curse exorcised?"

Sarah looked down at the floor, considering how to answer that. Satoru waited, but after a moment he saw that panic creep into her expression. She did see it happen before, she must have. She only got confused about her past when something was being covered up.

"Here," Satoru shook her shoulder, getting her mind back on him, "Let me show you how it's done."

She blinked away her confusion and smiled at him. "Oh yeah? Is this a special lesson from my senpai or are you just showing off?" She teased.

He pulled down his sunglasses and winked at her with a winning smile, "Can't it be both, baby?"

She playfully shoved him, then held out the camera, "You can sense them with this too if you need to."

"Pff," he took off his sunglasses completely and hung them off his shirt collar, "Nah, I've got special eyes remember?"

With his Six Eyes focused, Satoru quickly zeroed in on the manor’s curse—a dense, pulsing core of malevolent energy buried in the heart of the decayed building. His eyes narrowed as he mapped out the twisted network of cursed energy, sensing the curse’s hold on the whole structure, like roots tangling and suffocating an old tree.

Without a second thought, he appeared beside Shoko and Sarah, scooping them up under his arms with a cheerful, “Upsy daisy!” Sarah let out a startled yelp as he held her with one arm, Shoko on the other, their feet barely grazing the floor before he launched out of the mansion, skimming over the broken floorboards and leaping through the gaping front doorway in a flash.

“Suguru! Brace yourself!” he shouted as he touched down just outside. Without waiting, he raised his hand, two fingers pointed toward the manor as his cursed energy coiled and began to surge. Blue sparks crackled as an orb of condensed power formed near his fingertips, the energy practically singing with intensity. The air around them grew thick, buzzing with raw power.

Sarah’s eyes went wide as she glanced at the glowing blue orb only inches from her face. “Satoru, that’s a little close, don’t you think?” she stammered, feeling the pulse of cursed energy against her skin.

He glanced down at her, smirking. “Don’t worry, I’ve got it under control.”

And with that, he released the orb. It shot forward in a blinding beam, tearing straight into the heart of the manor. The explosion was immediate, a deep, resonating blast that expanded outward with enough force to shatter the ancient wooden beams and send splinters into the air. Dust and debris erupted as the manor collapsed inward, swallowed by the swirling cursed energy that Satoru had unleashed.

A moment later, Suguru emerged from the debris, coughing as he climbed out from beneath a fallen beam, his expression caught somewhere between irritation and exasperation. “You could’ve given me a little more warning, you know!" He shouted.

“I did warn you,” Satoru shot back, crossing his arms with a look of mock innocence, “You just weren’t fast enough to get out.”

Suguru narrowed his eyes, stepping closer. “Fast enough? You gave me half a second!" He growled.

Their voices rose as they squabbled, Satoru’s tone lighthearted, while Suguru’s was more genuinely annoyed. But neither Shoko nor Sarah paid them much attention, both staring at the remains of the manor. The wooden beams and cursed energy dissolved together, releasing a cloudy, black mist into the air. The curse’s grip on the house dissipated like smoke in the wind, leaving only an eerie silence in its wake.

As the mist faded, Shoko let out a quiet sigh, and Sarah grinned, still clutching the Camera Obscura as it slowly disintegrated in her hands. “Well,” she said, glancing over at Shoko, “that’s one way to exorcise a curse.”

Shoko chuckled, patting Sarah on the shoulder. “I’d say we’re done here.”

In the background, Satoru and Suguru were still bickering, their voices carrying across the clearing as the last traces of cursed energy faded, leaving nothing but a memory of the old, haunted manor.

⤶ Prev Main Next ↪

[the-guilty-writer]

The Agent Rossi-Reid Anthology Masterlist

It's no secret that the BAU team is like a family, but for some agents that's more literal than others.

A collection of works about SSA (Y/N) Rossi-Reid because when you work with your husband and your father, there's bound to be some stories to tell.

Read the anthology insipiration here.

Anthology co-creator: @doctorsteeb

Join the tag list

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Extras:

Guide to Italian

Chronological Written List

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Introduction Works (Complete):

SSA Rossi-Reid: David Rossi raised, Gideon mentored you, Spencer fell in love with you. What could go wrong?

What Goes Up...: Some cases hit harder than others. This one hit hard enough that your mentor reached his breaking point.

...Must Come Down: Spencer comes back from Gideon’s cabin with three things- a badge, a gun, and a letter you hoped you’d never have to read.

It's Proposals, Dads, and Halloween, Rossi-Reid! (S3E6): When your dad comes out of retirement after a decade, you hope it's just a Halloween prank. Spoiler alert: it's not.

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The Rossi-Reid:

All works are set post-S3E6

Original Works:

Figuring Out The Family Buisness: With Rossi on the team the dynamics and typical pairings are bound to change. The story of the first time Rossi was paired with Reid, Rossi was paired with Rossi-Reid, and the first time Rossi watched his daughter and his son-in-law get paired in the field.

Not Just a Rossi: When Spencer notices RR struggling with her father's return to work, he can't help but intervene... with help of course.

Episode Rewrites:

Damaged (S3E14): After twenty years, Rossi-Reid learns why her father stopped putting up the Christmas Tree.

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Becoming Rossi-Reid (Prequel Works):

All works are set pre-S3E6

Original Works Pre Show (for the most part):

The First Week: There are lots of old friends and new feelings during (Y/N) Rossi's first week at the BAU.

Never Grow Up: The role Gideon played as Rossi-Reid grew up.

Where Did The Time Go?: Rossi (eventually -Reid) goes on her first case with the team.

How Do You Seal A Deal?: Spencer and RR go on their first date.

Episode Rewrites (S1E1-S3E5):

The Big Game and Revelations (S2E14-15): A fun night out with the team turns into a case, which turns into a disaster, which turns into Rossi-Reid’s own personal Hell.

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More Extras:

gill and doctorsteeb talk rossi reid

random rossi reid thoughts

incorrect rossi reid quotes

Blurbs:

Someday

Headcanons-ish:

Rossi-Reid Gets Hurt S1

Being Jack's Madrina (godmother)

Spencer and Rossi-Reid on Valentine's Day

Rossi-Reid Birthday Headcanons

Answered Asks:

Who is Rossi-Reid's Mother?

Rossi-Reid and Stephen Gideon

How long did Spencer and RR know one another before getting married?

Will there ever be little Rossi-Reids?

Hotch and RR Sibling Content:

Gill's Favorite Sibling Moments Between Hotch and RR (Part 1), (Part 2)

Spencer asking Hotch for advice with RR

[del-sol-diminutives]

Review: The World of Sylvanian Families The Official Guide

This book is relatively new; it debuted around Christmas, 2023. It’s 110 pages, hardbound, and written with children in mind, but with value for adult collectors.

You can find some sample pictures of the interior on Amazon, but I wanted to talk a bit about what they do and don’t include, so you can decide for yourself if it’s a worthwhile addition to your own collection.

The book contains a story of the origin of Sylvania, which is heartwarming and sweet, with cute illustrations. The illustrations are the only time some of the vintage families appear in the book.

It also contains a section on the families themselves, including photos of the figures, their names, and the description of each member that you would usually find on the bottom of the box.

(Please forgive this photo’s strange lighting; the weather changed while I was writing.)

The most popular families get their own page and the Chocolate rabbits actually have a two-page spread. The families included are:

the Chocolate Rabbits

the Walnut Squirrels

the Persian Cats (the Persians)

the Huskies (the Huskys)

the Fennec Foxes (the Fennecs)

the Milk Rabbits (the Periwinkles)

the Ponies (the Manelys, plus Bella Chestnut and Giselle Silver)

the Bears (this is the Petite family of bears)

the Hedgehogs (the Brambles)

the Koalas (the Outbacks)

the Highbranch Giraffes

the Penguins (the Waddles)

the Snow Rabbits

the Toy Poodles (the Cakebreads)

the Sheep (the Dales)

the Maple Cats

the Pookie Pandas

the Marshmallow Mice

the Caramel Dogs

the Midnight Cats

the Kangaroos (the Hoppers)

the Yellow Labradors (the Fentons)

the Red Deer (the Buckleys)

the Reindeer (the Snowdrifts)

the Tuxedo Cats (the Marlowes)

the Bubblebrook Elephants

the Goats (the Brightfields)

and the Splashy Otters

The older brothers and sisters have their own page called “In The Town”, separate from the families. Interestingly, this includes Lionel Grand, who I hadn’t considered to be an older sibling. I might have to check his figure now.

The book also includes maps of Sylvanian Village, Sylvania Town, Seabreeze Cape, and Sylvanian Land, the amusement park for the babies. I think this is a fine bit of inspiration for designing your own layouts.

The book also includes descriptions of the seasons and Sylvanian holidays, including both Christmas and Easter.

In the back is a short timeline of Sylvanian Families history.

It is necessarily incomplete, given the target audience and the amount they’d probably have to pack into a book if they weren’t being general. Unfortunately it does not contain the full information on each of the various families and when they were released. There is definitely still room for a collector’s book for adults that includes information on the vintage families and sets.

Finally, the last page in the book is a delightful encapsulation of Sylvanian Families values.

I think this is a wonderful addition and a perfect capstone to the book, and I am very happy with owning it. I do hope that someday there will be a book for adult collectors, with the same kind of aesthetic, but with the full details we would love to have.

[callsign-magnolia]

Last Christmas

MATURE CONTENT (18+)

Warnings: Illusions to cheating, mentions of alcohol, crying.

Summary: Your relationship with Rhett is great, until it's not. But was it truly ruined, or did everyone else's opinions influence you.

This was for @lewmagoo's Christmas celebration! I'm still trying to stay offline but I just had to post this!

Word Count: 5.3k

Masterlist

“I love you, darlin’.” Rhett whispered as he rested his forehead on mine. “I love you too, Rhett. With all of my heart.” I whispered back as I wrapped my arms around his neck. He held me close as he swayed us between the trailers. The town's annual Christmas party was a hit. It was held at the rodeo grounds, and of course, with it being Amelia County, we have an annual Christmas rodeo. Rhett had an amazing ride, taking first place for the second year in a row. As soon as he came out he scooped me up into his arms, kissing me in front of the entire crowd. It's been almost  a whole two years since we started dating, and I couldn't be happier. In high school, I never could've imagined myself with Rhett. We knew of each other but I never thought he'd be interested in me. So I was very shocked when we bumped into each other when I moved back home from college and he asked me to dance at the Pit Bar.

“You still haven't told me what you want for Christmas.” He said, leaning me against his trailer. “I told you. Same thing as last year. Just you.” I said, pulling him into another kiss. “Oh come on!” He said, squeezing my sides and making me giggle. “You forced me into telling you what I wanted, and I know you got it.” It was true, I held him by the crotch in the Abbott Family barn and threatened to not sleep with him unless he told me, and I did buy it. “So I think it's only fair if you tell me.” He said. “Rhett.” I whined and he pressed me into the trailer a little harder. “C'mon darlin. I think I know what you want.” He said and I raised a brow at him. “And what do you think that is?” I asked. “I saw you looking at that book collection on Amazon.” My eyes widened. “Well, I did love the first book.” I listened to it on my phone and I've been dying for the series since. “And I think you'd love a gift card to that lingerie store up in Casper.” I quickly nodded at him in excitement. “I knew you would.” He said, pulling me into another kiss.

Christmas came and I talked Rhett into staying the night with me on Christmas eve. We woke up bright and early to open our gifts and of course I got the book collection and the gift card. But the look on Rhett's face when he opened his gift was the best thing I could've gotten on Christmas morning. “I only asked for the bridle darlin’. You got me a saddle too? How did you hide this?” He asked. “You never set foot in the basement.” I said, giggling. “Because it's creepy.” He retorted. “But I got it because the one you have is so old and worn, and you constantly complain that it hurts your back.” He had been complaining for the last year and a half that the saddle killed his back. So I made sure that I got him a saddle to match his bridle. “I think Honey will appreciate it too.” I said and he chuckled. “You're right.” After we opened our gifts we grabbed everything we needed and made our way to his parents. Amy begged for us to be there when she woke up, so we negotiated that we'd show up before she got up. Rhett was practically vibrating in his seat, so excited to see Amy open her gifts. He loved that little girl more than anything. I think he loves her more than me someday, but I couldn't complain.

We quietly came in the door when we got there. Royal was standing in the living room sipping his coffee when we walked in and it took everything in me to not giggle at the man. Just like the rest of us he was in a red shirt and reindeer pajama pants. Amy begged us to wear matching pajamas and we all agreed, Royal a little reluctantly. “Well, you look comfy.” I told him and he grunted. I just laughed at him before walking over and pulling him into a hug, which he begrudgingly returned. Cecilia smiled at us, coming over. “Merry Christmas." She hugged us both. "Merry Christmas, Ma." Rhett responded. "Quick!" Perry said, rushing down the stairs. "She's waking up!" Royal, Cecilia, and Perry quickly sat on the couch while Rhett and I sat on the rug in front of the roaring fireplace. Soon we heard soft footsteps coming down the stairs. Amy's hair was wild and she was rubbing her eyes when she saw us. "Uncle Rhett!" She yelled before sprinting to him. As soon as she got close enough she launched herself into his arms. He squeezed her tight and she giggled. "You knew we'd be here." He said and she buried her face in his shoulder. "I was worried you wouldn't come." She said and Rhett's face fell. "Why?" He asked and she shrugged. "I told you we'd be here, and we're here aren't we?" He asked and she nodded. "Right. Now, let's open all these presents. Looks like Santa brought ya a lot." Her attention immediately shifted to all of the gifts under the tree. Soon gifts were handed out and Amy ripped into hers. She was happy with everything she got and could hardly sit still for the rest of us to open ours. Once that was done we ate breakfast before going out for a Christmas ride.

"You can use your new saddle." I said. Rhett just chuckled and shook his head. "Didn't bring it," he said. I told him to put it in the truck, but I knew he didn't. He wants to keep it pristine, but I bought it to be used. "Check the bed." I said and he sighed. "When did you sneak it in there?" He asked and I smiled at him. "When you went to the bathroom." He groaned and turned towards the truck, going to grab the new saddle and bridle. I just chuckled and got my horse ready. Soon we were ready and headed out to the South pasture. It was bitterly cold and I was in as many layers as I could move in. "You cold?" Perry asked as I walked my horse out of the barn. "Very." I muttered. But I squealed as a snowball hit my chest and exploded. "Perry!" I yelled. He just laughed as I gathered my own snowball, launching it at him. He stopped laughing as my snowball nailed him in the chin. It was my turn to laugh as he stood there with his eyes closed, wiping snow off his face. "Right. Fastpitch champion." He said and I nodded. 

“Three years in a row, Per." Rhett said, leading Honey over in her new bridle. I smiled at him as he wrapped an arm around my waist, pulling me in close. "That just made me love you even more." He said, giving me a soft kiss. The ride was long but I eventually warmed up. Soon everyone else went back to the house, leaving Rhett and I alone. The snow started again so we decided to go back. "We've almost been together a whole two years." He spoke up, I smiled at him and nodded. "We have.” I responded. "January 19th." I lightly bit my lip and looked at him. “You remembered?” I asked and he nodded. “How could I forget the best day of my life?" He said and I giggled. "Ma's even been asking me when I'm going to marry you." He said and I sat up a little straighter in my saddle. "Is that… Is that something you want?" I asked and we were quiet for a minute. "I do. Do you?" He straight up asked me "Yeah. Yeah, I do.” He gave me a wide smile and turned to face forwards again. “So… are you gonna ask?” I asked him and he laughed loudly. “Oh no. You’ll never see it coming.” He said with a sly grin. “Okay, just don’t try to scare me with it.” I said. “I ain’t makin’ no promises.” He replied. 

The next day it was after work and I was putting some of Rhett’s laundry away in his lone drawer he has at my house when I saw a navy blue felt box. I stared at it for a moment before setting the laundry basket down and reaching for it. I held it in my hands, debating on if I should open it or not, but eventually I did. I gasped when I saw the gold ring, sitting on the plush navy cushion. It was a pear shaped diamond on a yellow gold band. “I guess he did listen when I talked about rings.” I said to myself. My finger twitched as I considered putting it on. But my thoughts were halted by a voice. “Honey? I’m home.” Rhett’s voice echoed up the stairs and I all but tossed the ring box in the air. I juggled it before slamming it into the drawer. “Just a minute!” I called down to him before stuffing the clothes in the drawer as well before rushing downstairs. 

A week later there was the New Year’s rodeo. Amelia county has a rodeo for everything and it sure shows around the holidays. Rhett showed up a few hours before me as usual, but I always slipped back behind the trailers to see him one more time before he rides. But this time, I wish I hadn’t. I gasped as Rhett pushed the black haired girl away from him, her lips making a smacking noise as they left his. I gaped at him as his eyes met mine and a look of horror crossed his face. “Honey-” He started but I cut him off. “No-just… No.” I turned and started walking away from him. He called my name, rushing up behind me and grabbing my arm. “Do not touch me!” I said, swinging around, my hand connecting with his face. He looked at me in surprise. “Honey, please it’s not what it looks like.” I shook my head at him as the tears started falling. “No! It was!” I yelled at him. “When we first started dating, everyone told me what kind of man you are. But did I listen? No! Because I thought I knew you. I thought you would never do this to me.” I said as tears of his own fell down his cheeks. “Dammit Rhett! We were talking about getting married exactly a week ago! I can’t believe you would do this to me!” I said. “But I didn’t-” “I saw you Rhett! You can’t gaslight me!” “I’m not trying to gaslight you!” He took one step closer and I took two steps back. “We’re done, Rhett.” His shoulders shook as a sob racked his body. “Honey, please. Don’t do this. Let me explain.” He said and I shook my head. “All the explaining was done when I caught you kissing someone who isn’t me.” 

“Mom, please.” I said as she squeezed me to her. “Your daddy and I are just so glad you decided to move back home.” She said. “But I do hate that Washington didn’t work out for you.” When Rhett and I broke up, I struggled. I entered a dark place in my life and I knew I needed a change. So by Valentine’s day I had gotten myself a new job and moved to Washington State. Life was good there, but it wasn’t Amelia County so come Halloween I had made plans to move back. I got my old job at the county tag office back and my parents are letting me live with them until I find my own place again. “It’s okay, it means I don’t have to spend money to come home for Christmas in two weeks!” I said and mom nodded. “I really do appreciate you and daddy letting me sleep in my old room until I get my own place again.” I said. “Well you know, the old Wilson farm is up for sale.” My dad said. “Daddy, I don’t have the time to take care of a whole farm. Nor do I really want to.” I said as I followed him into the kitchen. “You did when you were with-” “Daddy. Please don’t say his name.” I said, taking a deep breath, fighting back tears. My heart still hasn’t healed from last year. I’ve tried focusing on myself, but it didn’t work. I couldn’t bring myself to date anyone else, or even sleep with anyone. I so badly wanted the distraction but just the thought of being with someone else had me in tears. 

“Besides, he’s probably forgotten about me anyway.” “Oh no, he has not!” Mom said, walking into the kitchen to join us. “Mama-” “Every time that boy sees your father and I he makes it a point to ask about you. How you’re doing, are you enjoying life in Washington? That boy is still smitten with you, sweetie.” I shook my head. “He wouldn’t have done what he did, if he really did love me.” My dad scoffed. “That boy is in love with you, and he will always be in love with you.” I huffed and turned to my dad. “I’m your daughter. Aren’t you supposed to hate any boy that cheats on me or hurts me in any way?” I asked. “Well yes. I did corner him right after you moved, I blamed him for it but he explained everything and I can’t be mad at the boy.” I furrowed my brows at him in confusion. “What did he say?” I asked and my dad shook his head, lifting his coffee mug to his lips. “Not my place to say.” I raised my brows at him. “Not your place to say?” I scoffed. “No, it’s not my place. When you see him, he can tell you.” I shook my head. “I’m hoping I don’t see him for a long time.” 

The next week at work it was almost dead. But at least once a day we get a busy spurt. I heard the bell above the door go off as I was helping someone and I froze as I looked up. Those crystal blue eyes met mine and I wanted to crawl under my desk and hide. I totally jinxed myself by saying ‘I hope I don’t see him for a long time.’ How could I forget that Rhett has a December birthday? I thought as I finished with the person in front of me. I was hoping someone else would get him but as my client stepped away, I realized I was the only person available. Our eyes met and I so badly wanted to get up and walk over and kiss him, but I didn’t. “I can take whoever’s next.” I said, turning to face my computer. “Hi.” He said quietly as he stepped up. “Hello Rhett.” I could be petty and ask for all of his information, but that would have him standing in front of me longer. “Just renewing your tags?” I asked and he nodded. “It’s a two- thou-” “Two-thousand six GMC Sierra.” I said, cutting him off. “You remembered?” He asked and I fought back a small smile. “I remember when you got that thing sophomore year.” I said as I put in all of the information. “I wound up taking you to school the morning after I got it because your shitty little car broke down.” I bit my lip, remembering everything. I was four miles away from home but eight miles from school and I got very lucky that Rhett had to drive down the same road as me to get to school. 

“Yeah.” I muttered as I printed off his tag renewal. “Can-can we talk?” He asked as I slid the papers to him. “No, Rhett. I don’t think that’s a good idea.” I said and his mouth hung open for a second. “O-oh. Okay. Well, have a good day, darlin’.” Before I could correct him he walked out. “I’ll be back.” I said to my coworker before walking back into the break room. I grabbed my makeup bag and keys before rushing out to my car outback. I was breathing heavy as I got in and soon the tears kicked in. I cried and cried in my car, mascara running down my face as I leaned my head on the steering wheel. But I sat up quickly when I heard an engine revving and a dark blue GMC Sierra blew behind my car and out of the parking lot. I cried more before I managed to stop. I cleaned my face off and redid my makeup before going back inside. As soon as I sat down my coworker Amanda turned to me. “Are you okay?” She asked and I took a deep breath. “I’m fine.” I said. “Okay, well that gentleman you helped came back in looking for you, but I told him you went out to your car.” She said and I nodded. “Thank you.” I responded. 

I didn’t hear from Rhett. He didn’t try to call me, come see me or anything which I was grateful for. I don’t know if I could handle it. But then came the town's annual Christmas party and rodeo. I tried to get out of it, but mama called me out on all my bullshit and practically dragged me out of the house. I pouted the entire ride to the rodeo and my parents just made fun of me the entire time. “You realize I’m not going near that gate, right?” I said as we got out of my dad’s truck. “Sure you won’t.” My dad said. “But just so you know, Rhett has had a rough season and everyone is convinced that Luke Tillerson is going to beat him out this year.” Rhett would never let Luke beat him out. But if he’s had a rough season, then could he really stop Luke? Luke has always only been just a few spots behind Rhett and Luke could never stand it. Maybe I could walk over for Rhett’s ride? He would be too focused to look for me once he’s on that bull. I followed my parents around, greeting everyone but I stopped when I heard a voice call out my name. I turned to find Amy sprinting for me. I smiled, opening my arms and squeezing her tightly when she almost knocked me over. “Wow! You got big in the last year!” I said as she looked up at me. “I was so excited when Uncle Rhett said you’re back! Will you be at house on Christmas morning again?” She asked just as Perry, Cecilia and Royal walked over. I squatted down so I was more on her level, even though she still stood over me at this point. “Not this year, sweetie.” I said and tears welled up in her eyes. “Why not? Uncle Rhett said you were home.” I nodded. “I am, but your Uncle Rhett and I, we’re not together anymore. So we won’t be spending any holidays together anymore.” I told her. “Amy, it’s okay. We can still go and see her if you want.” Perry said, resting a hand on her shoulder. “Can we?” She asked and I nodded. “Whatever you want, sweetie.” I said, hugging her again. “C’mon, let’s go get some hot chocolate.” Perry said and she excitedly agreed. “Good to see you.” He said and I waved at him. 

“We’re glad you’re back.” Cecilia said, pulling me into a hug. “I’m surprised so many people are happy I’m home.” I said and she raised a brow at me. “Why wouldn’t we be?” She asked. “Well with everything that happened between Rhett and I…” I trailed off and she chuckled. “That boy still loves you, but I think that’s a conversation you wanna have with Royal. Rhett has told him more about what happened than me.” She said before someone caught her attention and she wandered off. Then my attention turned to Royal. “Hi Royal.” I said and he held an arm out, pulling me into a side hug. “Hey.” He grunted. “Daddy told me Rhett’s had a rough season.” I said and he nodded, leaning on the gate as a rider was let loose. “He has. He’s been doing good, but not as good as he has in the past.” He said and I nodded. “Do you think it’s because of me?” I asked. If Rhett’s not focused like he needs to be, he could really get hurt. “He’s been so focused on what he could do to get you back, he’s been distracted from everything in the last year.” He said. “If he wanted me back, why did he stop calling after two days?” I asked, huffing. “Because he realized you’d never take him back if he wasn’t the man you deserved.” I raised a brow at him. “He can explain it better, but I’ve never seen Rhett cry so much. He came to me two days after y’all broke up, and he asked me what I thought he needed to do to win you back.” He said, watching the riders intensely. “You know, I was in the same situation with his Ma about a year after we got together. I told him he could tell you he loved you all day long, but until he proved it to you with his actions.” He said and I nodded in agreement. “Maybe talk to him, hear him out and make your decision from there.” He suggested and I nodded. “I’ll think on it Royal.” I replied and he nodded, clapping a hand on my shoulder before starting in the direction Cecilia went. 

The next rider up was Luke Tillerson. I wanted to see the next few riders so I watched. Luke held on for a total of four seconds before he flew off, barely getting his feet under him. I watched a few more riders before it was Rhett’s turn. I fought the urge to stand up on the gate and yell as loudly as I could. But as soon as he was turned loose I couldn’t help it. “GO RHETT!” I screamed, standing on the gate. He was holding on tightly and he was laser focused and as soon as the eight second buzzer went off he let go, flying off the bull and rushing for the gate. But he skidded to a stop as the bull cut him off. “RHETT!” I yelled, catching his attention and he made a quick left turn. The bull was on his tail until someone else caught his attention and Rhett launched himself over the gate, landing on his back next to me. “Oh, shit! Rhett?” I asked, bending down next to him. “Rhett? Can you hear me?” I asked as he gasped for air. “Okay.” I said, grabbing his hand and helping him sit up. I took his hat off his head, fanning his face with it as he caught his breath. “Thanks.” He said as he could finally breathe normally. “You’re welcome.” I said as I helped him stand. I brushed some dust off of his arm and he smiled at me. “Good ride.” I said and he nodded. “Better than Tillerson’s.” I said, giggling lightly. “So you’ve heard.” He said and I nodded. “My daddy told me, but I knew you’d never let it happen.” I said as I met his eyes. 

“Yeah.” He muttered. “Listen, I know the other day you said we shouldn’t talk… but I really need to talk to you. I don’t expect you to take me back, but I can’t go on without you at least knowing the truth.” He said and I stared up at him. He held my gaze, almost searching my face for an answer. “O-okay. But after your last ride.” I said and he gave me a soft smile. “Thank you.” He said and kissing my cheek. “Gotta run.” He said before taking off for the other riders. I was a little stunned by the kiss and stood there with my mouth gaping for a moment before I came to my senses. I cleared my throat before going to take a seat for the next two rides. I watched as everyone made their second and third rides. Rhett’s second ride was another perfect one, with the exception of the bull not cutting him off. But he was in first place and Luke was in second, the scores were close and I was nervous for his last ride. Luke went and had a perfect third ride, but come Rhett’s third I could see how tired yet determined he was. I watched him climb into the chute, the bull he was on starting to throw itself around. Time slowed until the buzzer went off and the chute opened. Rhett was hanging on for dear life, but I gasped as his hand came loose and he went flying off the bull, landing on his shoulder. He had injured it once already and I knew this new injury would be worse. 

“Rhett!” I yelled as I ran over, worried about him. Two of his buddies were helping him over to a bench when I got there. “How bad is it?” I asked. His breath was shaky and his skin was clammy. “I think I knocked it out of place again.” He said and I grabbed his hand, slowly lifting it until he cried out. “Okay, want me to help you put it back in place?” I asked and he nodded, fighting back tears. I grabbed his wrist, slowly lifting it until he couldn’t handle it anymore. “Ready?” I asked and he nodded. “Okay.” With that I quickly lifted his arm and rolled the ball of his shoulder back into socket. “AH!” He yelled out. “Okay. Okay, it’s over.” I said as one of his friends handed me a sling. “Let’s get this on.” I said, guiding his arm into the sling as his breathing started evening out. “Do you need a pain pill?” I asked and he shook his head. “No, I stopped taking them.” He said and I looked at him in surprise. “Oh, really?” I asked and he nodded. “I stopped drinking so much too.” He said and I smiled at him. “And how do you feel?” I asked. “I just popped my shoulder out of place. I don’t feel like I’m layin’ in a field of daisies.” He said and I laughed. “Well after they announce the scores, why don’t we get something hot to drink and have a seat somewhere so we can talk.” I said and he nodded. “I’d like that.” We sat there in silence for a minute. It wasn’t awkward like I expected, it was comfortable, but I could tell he was nervous. 

“Hey,” I said, resting my hand on his. “You’ll come out in first place.” I told him and he chuckled, squeezing my hand. “You’re usually right about this stuff.” He said and we continued to wait. “And in first place…” The announcer said. It was between him and Luke and I knew he was nervous. “Local boy and winner for the third year in a row, Rhett Abbott!” The cheers were deafening as I squealed, pulling Rhett into a hug. “I’m proud of you!” I said out of habit and my face turned red. Many people came up to congratulate Rhett but finally we managed to grab some warm apple cider and Rhett led us back to the trailers. “You okay?” He asked, looking back at me as I trailed behind him. “Yeah, just thinking about the last time I was back here.” I said truthfully and he nodded. “C’mon.” He said, taking my hand and leading me over to his GMC. He set the tailgate down before getting into the back and pulling out a blanket. “Here, I know you get cold.” He said. I took the blanket from him, thinking about all the times we were wrapped up together in this blanket. “So, what did you want to tell me?” I asked as I climbed onto the tailgate. He sat next to me, taking a deep breath before letting it out. “What you saw last New year’s, it really wasn’t what you thought it was.” He said and sighed. “She originally asked me where Luke was and I told her I didn’t know. Then she started asking me things like how long I had been riding for. I didn’t want to be rude so I just answered her questions.” I nodded, showing him I was listening. “She asked me if I would go out with her, and I told her no because I wasn’t single. I turned to face her to tell her we were dating and she grabbed my face, and kissed me.” He said.

“I couldn’t just shove her away, she was tiny, she would’ve gotten hurt and then there would’ve been more problems and Joy would’ve gotten involved. I was trying not to panic but then you caught us and my entire world just fell apart at that moment.” I took a deep breath, looking down at my cup. “You had every right not to believe me, and to dump me. But I really needed you to at least know the truth.” He told me. “This has been the worst year of my life.” He said and I nodded. “Mine too.” I said and he raised a brow at me. “I’m sorry I ran you out of town.” He said and I chuckled. “You didn’t run me out of town Rhett. That was all me. I thought it would do me some good, but apparently it didn’t.” I said and he nodded. We sat in silence until he lifted his head and looked at me. “Dance with me?” He asked, holding out his free hand for me and I stared for a moment before nodding. “Okay.” I said, taking his hand. His free hand fell to my waist as his hand in the sling took mine as my own free hand rested around his neck. “Your dad told me you’ve been focusing on how to get me back.” I said and he sighed. “I realized I had to prove it to you.” He said and I nodded. “Even just tonight I can see how much work you’ve put in.” I said and he smiled at me. “I still really love you, darlin’.” His forehead fell to mine, just like it did last year and I smiled at him just as ‘Last Christmas’ by Wham! came on. “This song really sums up this last year.” I said and he nodded. “I still love you.” He said. “So much. And I was wondering, would… would you give me another chance? You don’t have to, but I have to at least ask.” I still really love him. So much so that it hurts. “Okay.” I said and his face lit up. “But we’re really gonna have to take this slow.” I said and he nodded. “Whatever you want, honey.” He said. His face slowly inched closer to mine as a few snowflakes fell around us. “Are you gonna kiss me or just breathe in my face?” I asked and he chuckled. “Can I kiss you?” He asked and I just rolled my eyes before pulling him into a soft kiss. He pulled me against him, crushing my body to his. “Fuck I missed doing that.” He said, pulling away and I grinned at him. “I did too.” I said, kissing him again. “I love you, Rhett.” I couldn’t resist saying it. “I love you too, darlin’.”

[orangefurbsicle]

My Current Furby Collection + Some Fun Facts!

• Mochi (she/her)

•she is so talkative, a social butterfly, loves eating sweets all the time.

•Bonnibel (she/her)

•super intelligent and kind, loves getting her hair done. Has a broken left foot.

•Ezra (he/they)

•definitely the eboy of the group, loves fashion and spiders

•Balto (he/him)

•just like any regular husky, he loves cold weather, when I first got him it was on a snowy day and it felt meant to be.

•gengar (he/him)

•my first custom I bought (from sunshinefurby on instagram) he resembles my favorite pokemon gengar, he loves eating my dreams when I sleep next to him lol

•Corynor (he/him) my second custom I bought, he has a tragic backstory, if anyone is ever interested in hearing it lmk lol

•Bubbles (she/her)

•a gift from my brother for Christmas, she was in a very bad state when we got her but I’m happy to rescue her. She is mute, doesn’t talk.

•Opal (she/her) and her son, Stuart Little (he/him)

•opal was my very first furby ever in my collection so she holds a lot of sentimental value, she’s a great mom and loves her son a lot!

•Quartz (she/her)

•a diva, just like Ezra, she loves fashion and dressing up, so of course I had to give her a bunch of accessories!

•skittles (he/him) (no photo)

He’s my newest furb, I plan on updating with photos soon!

Thanks for looking at my collection, I had to sell a bunch of my furbies unfortunately to pay for medical expenses but I hope to grow my collection again someday.

[hanleiacelebration]

Han x Leia Holiday Exchange 2023: The Reveal (Part 2)

Okay folks, it's time!! All the assignments have been submitted, everybody's got their gifts... so there's nothing left to do but reveal the authors for the 2023 Han x Leia Holiday Exchange 🥰 See the AO3 collection HERE!

We’ve also put together a masterlist with all the fics, authors, and recipients for this year’s exchange, which you can find below 🎉

Writers, you can promote your fics and repost them wherever you wish now. And in your role of recipients, please remember to read your gift and leave a comment thanking your writer if you haven't had the chance to do so yet. (If you’ve already left a comment, maybe you'd like to go leave another one now that your writer has been revealed! Did you guess who it was?)

Thank you to everyone who participated in another amazing exchange, including our pinch hitter, betas and cheerleaders! We're super proud of you all and the bangers you managed to put out, and we hope you've had fun! 💗

Masterlist

A Light on the Horizon written by @maggzblair (MBlair) for @hanxleia (AdiGallia9)

bad idea right? written by @diplomaticprincess for @lajulie24

Beneath a Desert Moon written by @luckylolabug (buggybugs) for @soloorganaas

Christmas on Coruscant written by @bookishbrigitta for @maggzblair (MBlair)

don't let them get you down (you're the best thing i've seen) written by @hadleyfraserfaggot (beyondtheoldheadstones) for @thesandwichincident (JuliaRose12)

Don’t slip away before the dawn written by @otterandterrier for @diplomaticprincess

I want to drive away with you written by @jainadurron for @bookishbrigitta

late night ponderings written by @hanorganaas for @hadleyfraserfaggot (beyondtheoldheadstones)

Sixty Years written by @hanxleia (AdiGallia9) for @jainadurron

something in the way you move (makes me feel like I can’t live without you) written by @lajulie24 for @hanorganaas

The Cufflink Tax written by @walkawaytall for @luckylolabug (buggybugs)

there's a war outside (but it can't get us here) written by @thesandwichincident (JuliaRose12) for @otterandterrier

We'll Get There Someday written by @corellianangel for @walkawaytall

[y2kbeautyandother2000sstuff]

Woohoo!! Just got these for my collection, the only Bonne Bell product left to get is the Nilla Mint Frost that goes with this collection and my Bonne Bell recollection is complete! I got these for Christmas (1999) when I was 10. I remember taking these to my aunt's NYE party with my parent and in the car I was listening to my Sugar Ray Hit Clips ("When It's Over" and "Someday") and my Britney Spears one (can't remember which, I was never a big fan. I'm still a big fan of Sugar Ray to this day though!!! My tastes have not changed in 25 years lol

Bonne Bell Berry Jelly Donut, 2000 Cookies and Strawberry Cheesecake Holiday Lipsmackers

Holiday 1999

Found on Ebay, user twist-so-fine

[darlingian]

WEEKLY TAG WEDNESDAY

Hello! In honour of @energievie 's birthday we are doing a birthday theme! thanks to her, @michellemisfit , @deedala , and @vintagelacerosette for the tags!

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When is yours? boxing day 📦

Where were you born? In the next province over! And it was funny because I actually delivered a baby in that hospital 30 years later completely unexpectedly.

How do you feel about your legal name? Are you using it online and/or IRL? I hate it. It's never felt like mine. It truly makes me uncomfortable when people use it. I mostly go by Chani which I do like more, but I definitely don't love it. I've considered changing my name even since I was small, but that also makes me feel weird.

How about your sign? Do you feel it "fits"? I'm a Capricorn but I've literally never read a horoscope that fit me. That's part of why I'd like my chart read someday. Maybe someone could explain why I feel that way!

What's your earliest memory related to your birthday? It was my 3rd birthday and I vividly remember opening The 1995 Fisher Price Little People farm set. Which I kept LONG after I'd technically outgrown the toy. I also remember there being smarties(the Canadian candy) as polka dots on a chocolate cake.

What's one of the best gifts you've ever received? When I was little I only had one cousin. Her and I were like siblings. Our grandma had bought us each a ty beanie buddy bear for Christmas and mine was a cranberry coloured bear with a green ribbon around his neck that I immediately named "Cranberry Bear" (good imagination lil me). Well that same day my little sister who was probably around 3 decided it was HER bear. And essentially the whole family tried to gaslight me into believing that it had always been my sisters. Because my sister was a very hard kid to deal with and she was prone to all day destructive tantrums I guess they figured this was easier. And when I wouldn't give up on the fact it was mine I was told "you have enough toys." Anyways, my best friend knew that story and happens to love researching vintage toys. (she has a great Polly pocket collection.) A couple years ago she gave me cranberry bear for my birthday. In pristine condition and as soft as the day someone bought him. And he's mine. I cried a lot. hahaha

How about one of the best you've given yourself? I'm supposed to say my children or something I think. lol

What's your favourite cake flavour? I actually unabashedly love funfetti cake. But also red velvet. I'll buy red velvet if it's available every time.

How about your favourite flowers? Forget-me-nots or Lily of the Valley.

Have your ever thrown a birthday party? If yes, tell us about your favourite one. I've thrown my kids a combined 14 birthday parties. Plus 3 or so parties for my ex-wife. I really loved my eldest's 7th birthday party which was "Witchy" themed. Her birthday is mid November so I bought so much great Halloween decor for it after Halloween had passed and everything was super duper discounted.

What's the ultimate birthday song? I like the Stevie wonder one?

And last but not least, pick a celebrity with whom you share your birthday. I share my birthday with Jared Leto and Chairman Mao. Soooo apparently it's an evil day to be born. lmao.

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tagging @heymrspatel @too-schoolforcool @sgtmickeyslaughter @gardenerian @celestialmickey

@jrooc @sam-loves-seb @iansw0rld @crossmydna @mybrainismelted

@mmmichyyy @sickness-health-all-that-shit @catgrassplantdad @thepupperino @gallawitchxx

@blue-disco-lights @creepkinginc