#Stretch Film Making Machine

[gireportstory]

Global Stretch Film Making Machine Market Size,Growth Rate,Industry Opportunities 2024-2030

Global Info Research announces the release of the report “Global Stretch Film Making Machine Market 2024 by Manufacturers, Regions, Type and Application, Forecast to 2030” . This report provides a detailed overview of the market scenario, including a thorough analysis of the market size, sales quantity, average price, revenue, gross margin and market share.The report provides an in-depth analysis of the competitive landscape, manufacturer’s profiles,regional and national market dynamics, and the opportunities and challenge that the market may be exposed to in the near future. Global Stretch Film Making Machine market research report is a comprehensive analysis of the current market trends, future prospects, and other pivotal factors that drive the market.

According to our (Global Info Research) latest study, the global Stretch Film Making Machine market size was valued at USD 901.4 million in 2023 and is forecast to a readjusted size of USD 1275.2 million by 2030 with a CAGR of 5.1% during review period. Global key players of stretch film making machine include Brückner Maschinenbau, W&H, Lindauer DORNIER GmbH, Gruppo Colines, JSW The Japan Steel Works, etc. The top four players hold a share over 50%.

China is the largest producer, has a share about 51%. In terms of product type, multilayer film manufacturing machine is the largest segment, occupied for a share of 78%, and in terms of application, food processing industry has a share about 32 percent.

The Global Info Research report includes an overview of the development of the Stretch Film Making Machine industry chain, the market status of Industrial (Single Film Manufacturing Machine, Multilayer Film Manufacturing Machine), Food Processing Industry (Single Film Manufacturing Machine, Multilayer Film Manufacturing Machine), and key enterprises in developed and developing market, and analysed the cutting-edge technology, patent, hot applications and market trends of Stretch Film Making Machine.

Regionally, the report analyzes the Stretch Film Making Machine markets in key regions. North America and Europe are experiencing steady growth, driven by government initiatives and increasing consumer awareness. Asia-Pacific, particularly China, leads the global Stretch Film Making Machine market, with robust domestic demand, supportive policies, and a strong manufacturing base.

Market Segmentation Stretch Film Making Machine market is split by Type and by Application. For the period 2019-2029, the growth among segments provides accurate calculations and forecasts for consumption value by Type, and by Application in terms of volume and value.

Market segment by Type: Single Film Manufacturing Machine、Multilayer Film Manufacturing Machine

Market segment by Application:Industrial、Food Processing Industry、Agriculture、Others

Major players covered: Brückner Maschinenbau、W&H、Lindauer DORNIER GmbH、Gruppo Colines、JSW The Japan Steel Works、Huabao、SIMCHENG、Chyi Yang Industrial Company、Changlongxing、Macro Engineering & Technology、XHD、SML、Jinming Machinery、Dongsheng、Matila Industrial Co., Ltd.、Hengtuo

The content of the study subjects, includes a total of 15 chapters:

Chapter 1, to describe Stretch Film Making Machine product scope, market overview, market estimation caveats and base year.

Chapter 2, to profile the top manufacturers of Stretch Film Making Machine, with price, sales, revenue and global market

share of Stretch Film Making Machine from 2019 to 2024. Chapter 3, the Stretch Film Making Machine competitive situation, sales quantity, revenue and global market share of top manufacturers are analyzed emphatically by landscape contrast.

Chapter 4, the Stretch Film Making Machine breakdown data are shown at the regional level, to show the sales quantity, consumption value and growth by regions, from 2019 to 2030.

Chapter 5 and 6, to segment the sales by Type and application, with sales market share and growth rate by type, application, from 2019 to 2030.

Chapter 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11, to break the sales data at the country level, with sales quantity, consumption value and market share for key countries in the world, from 2017 to 2023.and Stretch Film Making Machine market forecast, by regions, type and application, with sales and revenue, from 2025 to 2030.

Chapter 12, market dynamics, drivers, restraints, trends and Porters Five Forces analysis.

Chapter 13, the key raw materials and key suppliers, and industry chain of Stretch Film Making Machine.

Chapter 14 and 15, to describe Stretch Film Making Machine sales channel, distributors, customers, research findings and conclusion.

Our Market Research Advantages： Global Perspective: Our research team has a strong understanding of the  company in the global Stretch Film Making Machine market.Which offers pragmatic data to the company. Aim And Strategy: Accelerate your business integration, provide professional market strategic plans, and promote the rapid development of enterprises. Innovative Analytics: We have the most comprehensive database of resources , provide the largest market segments and business information.

About Us: Global Info Research is a company that digs deep into global industry information to support enterprises with market strategies and in-depth market development analysis reports. We provide market information consulting services in the global region to support enterprise strategic planning and official information reporting, and focuses on customized research, management consulting, IPO consulting, industry chain research, database and top industry services. At the same time, Global Info Research is also a report publisher, a customer and an interest-based suppliers, and is trusted by more than 30,000 companies around the world. We will always carry out all aspects of our business with excellent expertise and experience.

[succubusvalentine]

Simon Riley who is obsessed with watching your pussy taking what she's given. CW : fingering, toys, mirrors, overstimulation, mentions of filming, Simon being gross.

Simon who loves to watch you finger yourself.

He loves to watch how your fingers were too small to give yourself the same amount of pleasure his could, how they barely seemed to stretch your cunt. And when he finally got his fingers inside you, he loved it even more.

He loved how your tight little hole tried to adjust to his stupidly thick fingers. How with every slide of his fingers your pussy just got louder and louder. He especially loved spitting on your hole and watching his spit slip inside you, then dribble out.

Then, Simon started sitting you in front of the floor length mirror in your bedroom. Between his thick thighs, with your back against his chest.

His cock throbbed in his jeans as he watched your reaction in the mirror to your cunt taking his fingers. How you squirm and whine trying to get away from the overstimulation. But his left hand had a death grip on your hip, keeping you in place.

"C'mon princess, y'can take it" is whispered in your ear as you orgasm again.

your pretty hole just takes your fingers so well princess! Your folds are so puffy and welcoming to Simon's fingers. Practically begging for them! How is he supposed to say no when your hole is begging him so sweetly?

And when Simon comes home early from a mission, only to find you on your bed wearing his sweater and moving a dildo in and out of your cunt? He goes feral.

Suddenly, your brute of a boyfriend is kneeling in front of you and pushing your legs as far apart as they'll go, so he can watch your cunt swallow the toy he was now fucking you with.

"Why weren't you recording this f'me, baby? Y'know I love t'see how your pussy takes what she's given" Simon growled.

And with all of this information, you really can't be that surprised when you come home from work to see Simon building a fucking machine in your living room. A proud smile on his face when he saw your shocked expression.

(and yes, there is a tripod with a high quality camera behind the machine so he can make sure he doesn't miss a thing)

(peep the accidental badjhur reference).

⛧°. ⋆𓌹♰𓌺⋆. °⛧

[thyme-in-a-bubble]

pop that cherry

a/n: woop woop! here's the little slutty story that you guys voted for when i asked what you wanted to see happen next in this au ৎ୭

summary: “hey, I get it,” he flashed you a comforting smile, “I’m a complete stranger. You just shook my hand two seconds ago and now we’re expected to bang in front of a bunch of other people you also don’t know,” his broad thumb swept over your knuckles, “you just have to decide if you wanna pack up your things, go home and chalk this up to just a fun experience, a lesson learned about what corners your sexuality and such does and does not stretch to,” he uttered with sincerity, “or you can come back inside and we can make some magic happen. It’s up to you.” 

warnings: camgirl!reader x various, pornstar!ari levinson, roommate!bucky barnes, porn director!bruce banner, smut, porn au, college au, reader’s porn name is cherry blossom (UrLittleCherry), filming pornography, reader's first time doing professional porn, kissing, masturbation, toys, oral, fingering, voyeurism, exhibitionism, dirty talk, size kink (pornstar!ari is famous for his monster cock, you're welcome), belly bulge, manhandling, multiple orgasms, squirting, penetrative sex, unprotected sex, facial

word count: 3832

∼ gentle reminder that feedback, but especially reblogs are the way you support writers on here ∽

sugar & spice au masterlist | 101, intro to the au

masterlist | join my taglist 

Curled up and melted on your mattress, you absentmindedly scrolled through your phone. Your puffy pussy, hidden between your still trembling thighs, clenched in dull soreness from the fuck machine frozen by your feet and still glistening from the show you’d put on only moments earlier. 

“Hey, pretty girl,” a familiar voice emanated from your doorway, “I didn’t know you were done streaming.”

Lazily blinking up at Bucky as he leaned against the frame, “yeah, just signed off a few minutes ago,” you exhaled, “did you just get home?” the question flowed from your lips and he swiftly nodded in confirmation, “how was class?” 

“Oh my god, don’t get me started,” your roommate let out a groan and pushed himself off the wall, his stride swiftly carrying him the short distance to where you laid and plopped himself down beside you.

A soft smile tugged at the corners of your lips as you felt him press a slow peck to your exposed shoulder. 

“Do you need help lifting the toy back in the closet or–,” Bucky’s kind offer was then cut short by the shuttering gasp that suddenly crawled out of your lungs. 

“Oh my god,” your eyes grew to the size of saucers as you stared down at the message you’d opened on your phone, “oh my god!”

“What? What is it?” he propped himself up on a forearm to peek over your shoulder. 

“I–…” your eyes scanned the email wildly, “this can’t be real, right?” you cast a glance back at your friend. 

“Let me have a look,” and you swiftly handed him your phone before hearing him skim through it, “dear miss Cherry Blossom, bla, bla, bla… we here at Smash Studios really love your vibe and were wondering if you would ever consider doing professional pornography, because if so, then we would love to work with you,” his blue eyes flickered a moment longer over the screen before they fluttered up to meet yours, “no, I think it’s legit.”

“Holy shit…” you breathed, an airy giggle then bubbled out of you as this was quite the news to take in, even when one wasn’t still hazy from haven fucked one silly in front of hundreds of people. 

“You think you wanna do it?”

“Beautiful, gorgeous! And look right here, up there, yeah, that’s it…” 

Sharp clicks shuttered the camera and shot throughout the massive house as a photographer snapped the last of the stills for the shoot. You were posed perched and kneeling on a bed with your right hand buried in the already tiny crop top, you’d brought as one of the outfit options, and held up high to reveal your tits. 

The groan of floorboards creaking then found your ears and your gaze swiftly fluttered towards the door where the salt-and-pepper-haired man, who you’d come to learn was the head of the little porn studio, crossed over the threshold. 

“How are we doing in here?” Bruce adjusted his glasses before stepping further into the room. 

“I think we’re about done,” the photographer lowered the camera from his eye and cast a glance to his boss, “think we got the shot.”

“Great,” Bruce clapped his shoulder as the other man passed by and exited the room. As you tugged the short t-shirt back down into place, you met Bruce’s gaze before he asked you, “how are you doing? You ready?”

Though your mind was way too preoccupied to offer him an answer and instead blurted, “has he arrived?” as you scooted off the bed and felt the tiny shorts you wore ride up enough for your grasp to float down to adjust. 

“Not yet, I’m sorry,” he tilted his head, “trust me when I say that he isn’t usually this late. He wouldn’t have the stellar reputation he does if he was. But we can still begin without him and just fix it in post if you’re–”

Someone then poked their head and announced, “hey Banner? He’s here. I just spotted his bike roll up the driveway.”

Feeling your heart thump in your chest, you heard Bruce clap his palms together, “great!” before you followed him out of the bedroom and through the pristine halls of the rented modern mansion. 

Just before your bare feet began to conquer the long staircase, your absentminded grip tightened on the glass railing as you looked down at the open living room, clearly visible from the wide balcony, and spotted the figure that then sauntered in. 

“So sorry I’m late, traffic was literal hell.”

Ari Levinson. 

With sun-kissed brunette locks flowing from his head and a motorcycle helmet nuzzled under his burly arm, the infamous pornstar was not only blessed with a smile that could make anyone swoon, but also a dick so huge that any sane person would be downright terrified by the idea of having it split them apart. 

Though that wasn’t what had stopped you in your tracks, what had made your palms embarrassingly clammy when he soon shook one of them once you’d somehow made your way down the stairs. 

Why did your very first partner have to be someone you’d obsessively been getting off to for years? 

You were barely listening to what the people around you were saying as you couldn’t rip yourself out of the trance you’d snapped into. 

“I’m sorry, what?” you soon blinked, trying to avert your gaze. 

“I asked if you were ready,” Bruce patiently repeated. 

“…for?” you breathed, feeling as if you were inside of a giant ethereal cheese bell, making the entire world around you seem blurry. 

“For the shoot,” Bruce’s words still flew straight over your head, “I said that I was thinking that I’d do the filming myself, if that could make you more comfortable since you’ve already met me. That way it’ll just be me, the two of you and then Sam in the corner doing audio.”

“O-okay…” you said quietly, feeling your cheeks heat up as Ari let his gaze linger over you, an observant brow soon twitching as he spoke up. 

“Wait, actually,” he placed a palm on Bruce’s forearm, halting him as he reached for the bulky camera resting on the white couch, “do you mind if I grab a quick smoke break first?”

“Yeah, sure,” he nodded, “let’s just all take five before we begin.”

It caught you completely off guard when the object of your distraction walked by you and paused to murmur in your ear, “come with me outside for a second, will you?”

Shadowing him all the way out of the tall glass door and onto the terrace, you watched him lean his frame against the fence and tilt his body for you to slot in beside him. 

“I don’t actually smoke,” you uttered softly as you let your fingers ghost over the railing. 

“Oh, neither do I–, or well, that’s not completely true, I do, just didn’t need one right now.” 

“So then why did you ask for a smoke break?” you cocked a brow. 

Blowing out a swift breath, Ari then twisted to face you more and gazed directly down at you. 

“You mind if I hold your hand?” he held out his own palm.

“Oh, uhm,” your glance flickered down to his upturned hand before you carefully placed your own atop of it, “okay.”

His warm fingers swiftly engulfed your own as his stare stayed fast upon you.

“So, this is your first time, huh?”

“Oh, no, I'm not a virgin, I–” 

“I meant porn, sweetheart,” he tilted his head to be more at your level. 

“Right,” you averted your gaze as butterflies soared in your stomach, “yeah, I haven’t really done this before… I mean, I’ve some stuff, I’ve cammed for a pretty long time now and even recorded custom videos for some people, but no, I haven’t really taken this step before…” 

You were staring down at his large hand engulfing yours as he then said, “you know, it’s okay if you don’t wanna go through with it. This field isn’t for everyone, in fact, only very few thrive in this environment, and if it’s not for you, then it’s okay.”

“Oh, no,” your eyes flickered up to find his as you urged, “I wanna do this, I really do. I’m sorry, I guess I just kinda got a bit more nervous than I expected.” 

“Hey, I get it,” he flashed you a comforting smile, “I’m a complete stranger. You just shook my hand two seconds ago and now we’re expected to bang in front of a bunch of other people you also don’t know,” his broad thumb swept over your knuckles, “you just have to decide if you wanna pack up your things, go home and chalk this up to just a fun experience, a lesson learned about what corners your sexuality and such does and does not stretch to,” he uttered with sincerity, “or you can come back inside and we can make some magic happen. It’s up to you.” 

“So, Cherry,” Bruce purred behind the camera as he knelt on the floor beside where you sat at the foot of the bed, “I can’t believe we finally convinced you to come have some fun with us. I gotta tell you, you are just a fucking dream come true…”

“Oh, thank you,” you smiled, kicking your feet slightly as they dangled over the edge. 

“But you must get that all the time, I mean, look at you.”

“It has been known to happen on occasion,” you chuckled, thinking back to all of the lewd compliments the viewers of your streams generously tossed at you. 

“So, a little birdy told me that this is your very first time fucking on camera. Is that true?”

“Yeah, it is,” you bit down on your bottom lip, “I’m so ready to pop that cherry.”

“Oh, you are, are you?” he smirked, panning the bulky camera over your frame as you tilted your head in a nod, “you’re just ready to show the whole world what a perfect slut you are?”

“Think it’s about time,” you giggled in response. 

“Well, then why don’t you do something for me and stand up?” he shifted back a bit as you got up from the bed, “and now, I’ve already seen it, but can you please turn around and show everyone how fucking perfect your ass is?” a grin stayed fast on your face as you slowly spun around. Your butt was barely covered in the tiny shorts that clung around your hips, so when you twisted and let the camera catch that part of you, Bruce quietly groaned, “wow…” and he shifted his grip to let one of his hands float up towards you, “can I touch you?” 

“Sure,” you arched your back a bit to make his palm’s journey that much shorter. 

“Damn… this has got to be one of the greatest booties I’ve ever seen in my entire life,” he offered your softness a brief squeeze. His fingers first dented one cheek, then the next, before his grip caught your waistband and tugged your shorts up just a tad bit more, making the fabric momentarily rub against your covered pussy.

His flat palm then scooped around your hips and guided you back to face the camera.

“Do you wanna see my boobs?” you smiled as you blinked down at him with big doe eyes, your hands gently grazing over the hem of your crop top.

“Oh, yes, please,” he virtually begged as he let his warm palm stay glued to your waist. 

Peeking down, you slowly lifted the shirt up and let your tits quite literally spill out as they jiggled slightly from the release of how fiercely you let the cotton graze over your skin. 

“Jesus christ…” you heard him utter as your palms fluttered down to play with them, squeezing the soft peaks gently before Bruce’s fingers sneaked up to pinch one of your nipples.

Once you’d put on a show and pushed the tiny shorts down your legs, the crotch of which had been slightly soaked since you weren’t wearing any panties underneath, you rested back down on the bed and spread your legs wide for the camera, grinning as the older man asked you to play with yourself. 

“Oh my god… I gotta tell you, I am so hard right now,” you watched how intently he stared at the small monitor, getting a closeup of how your fingers rubbed your little clit, “you have no idea how tough it is not to just fuck you right now, it’s crazy…”

“Oh yeah?” you giggled, the melody of your want echoing throughout the room at every teasing touch you offered yourself, “how bad do you wanna fuck me?”

“So fucking bad…” he uttered in a nearly hypnotise tone. 

Continuing to circle your puffy pearl, your fingers briefly dipped down to tease your entrance, only shyly slipping inside before you swept back up. 

“You know what?” Bruce said as he then began to twist a bit to get the open door to the room into frame, “I have a little surprise for you,” and perfectly on queue, Ari appeared at the threshold, burly chest on show with just a pair of jeans hanging low on his hips. 

His stride was slow as he only stayed in the doorway a moment before sauntering over to where you sat, melted back and resting against the one forearm that propped you up. 

“Hey,” he smiled and plucked up your face as soon as it was within reach. 

“Hi,” you managed to utter just before he bent down and pressed his lips to yours in an unhurried and gentle kiss. 

He kissed you as if he had all the time in the world, like some dude wasn’t pressing a bulky camera closer to the intimate act, but like he was the lead in a PG romcom. 

When Ari withdrew, he let himself linger in your warmth, ever so slightly nuzzling his nose against your own as your fingers kept up the dizzying pattern you drew between your parted thighs. Tilting his head, his touch traced the length of your arm till his reach came down to aid your efforts, making you gasp from the way he caressed you. 

“You,” he nudged his nose gently against your own, “look like you’re in need of some cock in that little mouth of yours.”

Letting out a soft chuckle, you said, “you read my mind,” before popping the button of his jeans and tugging the zipper down. Even though you’d seen his famed cock numerous times on screen before, it truly was something else to witness it in person. A breathy, “holy shit,” left your lips as you tried to wrap your fingers around his girth, though he only let out a soft laugh at the way your eyes grew wide. 

Ceasing the caress he drew between your thighs, he instead grabbed the base of his heavy length with his fingers still glossy from your arousal. As you stuck out your flat tongue, he tapped the weight against you for a second before you tilted your chin and wrapped your lips around the bulbous head.  

As you disappeared into the meditative motion of slobbering all over his cock, gradually taking more and more of his intimidating length, your frame twisted to lay on your side and face him more. 

Blinking up into his hooded eyes as the corners of your lips burned from the severe stretch, you felt his hips begin to move, rolling to meet your every bob, till his fingers tangled in your hair and he got to take over completely, fucking your face till slobber dribbled down your chest and rained down on your crop top, still tugged up and framing your tits. 

His free hand then snaked its way back down your body and cracked your legs open wide for the camera to see as he plugged your pussy up with two of his fingers, making you moan around his girth as the tip of him bruised your throat. 

When he yanked your mouth off of his cock, he did so with a gravelly growl, like he could have lived in your silky warmth and it pained him to say goodbye so soon. 

“Come here,” he grabbed you and flipped you around for your frame to face him as his feet stayed planted on the side of the bed. Kicking his jeans the rest of the way off, you panted up at him as you scooted even closer, nearly letting your butt hang off the mattress’ edge as you laid already crumbled and folded before him, utterly bewitched by the anticipation of what his legendary size must feel like stretching your poor pussy out. 

Shimmery spiderwebs of your nectar clung to him as he then let you feel the weight of him tap against your puffy pearl, briefly skimming through your folds before he found your eyes and tipped down, nudging to catch your weeping entrance. 

“Oh my g-god…” you gasped, all of the air escaping your body to accommodate as he slowly pressed just the tip inside. Your cunt clung around his dick as he gave you a second to catch your breath. Your pulse throbbed in your pussy as your silky walls moulded around him and your thighs gently trembled from the intensity of it all. 

“Fuck,” he groaned as he gave you another inch, “you feel so good,” gently stuffing more of his length inside. 

His grip dented your trembling thighs as he held you open for the camera to see how you struggled to take his cock. Even when the tip of him kissed your cervix and made you feel as if he was all the way up in your fucking throat, when you hazily gazed down to see where he split you apart, there was still a generous inch of him that your little pussy just couldn’t take. 

As your eyes lingered a little longer, you too caught sight of how a dull bulge formed in the lower part of your belly, perfectly timed with each of his mind-numbing thrusts. 

When you then tumbled over the edge, nearly blind from the overwhelming pleasure, your pussy couldn’t help but accidentally gush around Ari’s girth, simply because of how mind-boggling he felt. 

“Oh, shit,” you panted. Still in your orgasmic daze, you swiftly cast a worried glance up at Bruce steady behind the camera, “I’m sorry,” you briefly broke the scene as Ari too paused his movements as you breathlessly spoke, “I really tried not to squirt, I know that wasn’t part of today’s plan, but–, fuck…” your eyes fluttered up to find Ari’s, “your dick’s just so goddamn big,” you hazily giggled. 

“Don’t worry, sweetheart,” Bruce’s voice washed over you as you watched a smile tug at Ari’s lips, “that was just an unplanned bonus.”

“Wait, so you’re not mad?” your neck twisted to cast a glance at the director. 

“No,” he swiftly shook his head and flashed you a reassuring smile to calm the obvious anxiety that had bubbled up inside of you. 

“Oh, good,” you let out a sigh, “sorry, I just got nervous for a second. Okay, alright, we can keep going.”

“You good?” Ari checked before he cracked out of his frozen form. 

“Yep, yep, I’m okay, I’m wonderful,” you chuckled and let the last bit of nerves wash away. 

“Alright,” he dipped down to press a soft kiss to your lips, before his hands guided your arms around his neck, slinking them around him. 

His grasp then scooped down under you and he effortlessly plucked you up off the bed, a shy yelp bubbling up from your lungs as he picked your frame up to cradle you in his arms, his massive cock still lodged inside of you, though when he settled you in his strong hold, it felt as if he found a mystical way to slide even deeper. 

Moans flowed from your lips and vibrated against his skin as your neck soon gave up and lent your cheek to smoosh against his fuzzy chest. 

“There you go,” he stood up tall and bounced you in his arms like you were a toy, just a cocksleeve for him to get off with, “there you fucking go…”

As he picked up the pace and truly gave you a taste of how a real pornstar pounded a pussy for the camera, your eyes screwed shut tight and you felt yourself float away on a cloud, curled up in Ari’s burly arms and surrounded in a storm of your collective moans. The existence of the video camera even faded from your reality as you peeled your eyes open and peeked up at Ari from the pillow of his pec, knowing full well that he too could feel how you began to clench around his cock once more. 

“You gonna cum again?” he repeatedly lifted you up and down on his fat girth, “you gonna be a good girl and cream all over my cock, huh?”

Blinking up at him, your brows crinkled in pleasure as you nodded, “uh-huh.”

“You think you can squirt again for me?” his grip dug into the plush of your ass hard enough for it to leave marks. 

“I-I don’t know–”

“Oh, I think you can,” he switched up his pattern, slowing down slightly and dragging you all the way up till his cock nearly slipped out of you, only to sink you back down in such a rough, yet intensely slow manner, that it made your eyes roll in your skull, “just listen to that,” he smirked at the soft sloshing sound that sinfully echoed as his fat girth repeatedly slid against your g-spot, virtually bullying it till you surrendered, “it’s like she’s begging me to just spend the rest of the day making her gush over and over again until you fucking pass out…”

A shrill cry escaped your form as you let go once more, shaking in Ari’s grasp as Bruce knelt down to capture your sinful drizzle.  

You nearly felt drunk, like you were hours into the best party of your life, when you eventually found yourself planted on the floor, quaking legs unsteady beneath you as you blinked up at Ari, looming above you and furiously fucking his fist. 

“You want me to cum all over that pretty little face?” he grunted as you hazily stuck out your tongue. 

“Yes,” the corners of your lips blissfully curled up into a grin, “please–”

Even though your bones had turned into jelly and your pussy clenched in soreness, the drawn-out moan that rumbled in Ari’s chest as hot ropes of his cum then shot out and painted your features sent tingles throughout your body and filled you with a desire to just wrestle him back down onto the mattress, hit rewind and do it all over again. 

© 2024 thyme-in-a-bubble 

[literaryvein-reblogs]

Writing Notes: Horror

Horror is a genre within creative writing that relies on one thing: instilling a sense of fear in the reader.

The horror genre is multifaceted—there is a kind of horror for every kind of person.

For some, the most effective scare is the idea of being trapped in a haunted house. For others, it’s being chased by a serial killer on Halloween.

Some of the best horror comes from scary things that can manipulate an audience’s feelings, creating a sensation of uneasiness and fear that stretches beyond consciousness and permeates deep within the psyche.

Horror writing is sometimes categorized within the broader category of thrillers, but not all horror follows the thriller structure.

Classic horror fiction—whether expressed as a novel, novella, short story, or film—will tap into topics that reliably frighten most humans.

Common topics include ghosts, werewolves, vampires, zombies, serial killers, murderers, and the fear of the unknown.

These horror tropes can often devolve into clichés.

A downside of horror’s popularity is that many horror books and movies recycle old content in non-creative ways, but when properly executed, horror stories can thrill audiences and even provide commentary on the human condition.

Horror Subgenres

1. Apocalyptic - In this subgenre, the world is ending or society is collapsing. When this happens, it’s usually because of some creature, demon, or religious event (while climate-oriented apocalypses are more sci-fi).

2. Body Horror - Involves the mutilation, experimentation, or violation of the human body. It can focus on disease, dismemberment, infestation, sexual acts, or a complete transformation of the physical form.

3. Comedy - Horror and comedy seem so at odds with each other, but they work so well together (kind of like spice and chocolate). A trademark of comedy horror is how the protagonist somewhat stumbles through the story, arriving at the end through luck and ridiculous happenstance rather than skill or growth.

4. Cosmic/Lovecraftian - With its origins largely attributed to H.P. Lovecraft, cosmic horror makes us feel small against a threat that is ancient, massive, and incomprehensible. Cosmic horror looks at intergalactic entities, ancient gods, the machinations of the universe, and how helpless we are against it all.

5. Dark Fantasy - Another crossover, this time with the fantasy genre. In dark fantasy, you have elements of magic, fictional creatures or worlds, and everything else that makes fantasy great, plus you add in a good dose of scares. This can also involve other subgenres, like body horror.

6. Dark Romance - Another crossover genre, dark romance takes the feel-good romance genre and makes it horrific. While this subgenre can simply include morally questionable characters and a grittier tone than most romance, it can also include kidnapping, forced confinement, BDSM, psychological and physical abuse, and sexual violence or sex where there is no consent. Bear in mind that it still needs to include the tenants of romance stories, though.

7. Extreme Gore - Not for the faint of heart, this subgenre includes books that have detailed torture scenes or otherwise disturbing and depraved acts. This genre is all about shocking your audience with how awful your characters act or are treated.

8. Folk Horror - Embraces urban legends and folktales. These range from old pagan gods in the woods to weird rituals performed by isolated groups or villages. Sometimes there is a supernatural element to them, even if the “supernatural” is simply perceived or believed by some characters (e.g., Midsommar).

9. Found Footage/Documentaries - Though this subgenre is more common in films than books, found footage and documentary horror stories are about a crew of people recording their experiences, usually unaware of the true danger they are about to face.

10. Gothic - The great-grandparent of modern horror, gothic horror is the brooding, atmospheric genre containing what most of us would consider classics (e.g., Dracula and Frankenstein). Sometimes you throw in a dash of romance, but these tales tackle topics like death and mortality.

11. Post-Apocalyptic - After some world-ending disaster, how horrifying have things become? Post-apocalyptic horror shows us a world without rules or structure. It can contain unrealistic elements (zombies, demons, etc.) or realistic possibilities (cannibals, gangs, and so on).

12. Psychological - Places the spotlight on trauma, mental health, manipulation, phobias, and everything else that causes you to become stressed and anxious. Home invasion stories (i.e., The Strangers) fall under this subgenre.

13. Slasher - Involves violent horror that is more about a single killer stalking and eventually killing a group of people (traditionally targeting teens and using a blade). This subgenre isn’t necessarily as violent or gory as others, but uses suspense to make the reader hold their breath.

14. Splatterpunk - Is known for its disregard of limits when it comes to violence—both physical and sexual. Gore and depravity are grossly abundant.

15. Supernatural/Paranormal - Some folks separate these two subgenres into different categories, but there is so much overlap that they’re basically the same. If you have to, think of supernatural horror as stories that involve werewolves, witches, vampires, and other monsters. Paranormal horror, on the other hand, involves ghosts, demons, and haunted houses.

Tips for Writing Horror

1. Read more horror. There’s no better way to understand what a good story looks like than to read one for yourself. Read as much as you can so you are aware of what other horror writers are doing.

2. Focus on your own fears. Much like comedy, horror benefits from authenticity. So get personal: If you can scare yourself, you can probably scare an audience.

3. Create three-dimensional characters. Write characters whose character flaws feed the action of the story. All good literature and film contains well-wrought characters with desires, emotions, and a backstory. The more human you make the characters of your story or screenplay, the more their missteps and bad choices will resonate with an audience.

4. Recognize that the real can be scarier than the surreal. Sure, you can make up an army of googly-eyed bad guys or plant a severed head in your main character’s bed, but will you really scare your reader? Not necessarily. In most cases, psychological horror sticks with audiences far longer than a jump scare or gross-out moment in a slasher film. Toying with people’s real-life fears tends to scare them much more than just grossing them out.

5. Use the environment. Scary movies and television shows can use jump-scares as an easy way to frighten an audience, but writing scary literature requires its own method of manifesting fear. Setup your environment in a vivid way to fully immerse your readers into your setting. Vividly describing an enclosed space can elicit feelings of claustrophobia. A dark and quiet house becomes more frightening when a character suddenly hears the creak of an upstairs floorboard. Being an outsider in an unfamiliar place, like a small town with no cell phone service and where everyone knows each other, is already unsettling—and if you add a malicious paranormal force to such a setting, you can enhance the feeling of isolation and ramp up the anxiety of the scenario.

6. Write longer sentences. You can heighten your readers’ fear by writing paragraphs with longer sentences. Periods provide natural pauses for readers to take a breath, but if you stretch out your sentences, you build anticipation for the reader—which they might not even realize until they reach the end of the sentence. By using tactics like this, you immerse the reader into your horror story, making them feel what the main character feels and creating a heart-pounding connection.

7. Make your readers breathe faster. Whereas long sentences can amplify the intensity of a story, short one-sentence paragraphs can force your readers to take more frequent breaths while following your narrative. Crafting abrupt lines builds tension in your scary story writing, making the readers’ eyes move more quickly down the page searching for the relief that the protagonist is safe. This can make your audience breathe faster, contributing to the feeling of panic and anxiety.

8. Leverage fear of the unknown. Fear of the unknown is a common theme that can be tracked throughout many of the best stories in horror fiction and horror movies. When there is something that negatively affects us that we cannot control or properly identify, it creates a feeling of panic and dread. Teasing your readers with something not quite definable or a bad guy no one knows how to stop can increase the level of tension and fear when writing horror stories.

9. Lean into dark imagery and your readers’ collective imagination. Consider what images might be frightening to a reader (and yourself). How much of a description of a clown do you need in order to make a reader feel uneasy? How large and grotesque does a rat need to be? Leaving some of these images more general than specific will allow a reader to fill in the blanks with what is most horrifying to them. Example: If you read the word beast, what do you see in your imagination? Most words carry connotations and personal connections. Allow your words to work for you to create the maximum scare.

10. Want tension? Sprinkle in some foreshadowing. Foreshadowing is a powerful tool in your writing arsenal, but it is particularly effective in horror, especially when writing in third person. Foreshadowing is when an author alludes to a future event by showing us something now. The key to foreshadowing is to use it sparingly. We want to up the tension and the fear our readers are experiencing while they yell at the oblivious protagonist not to open the door. We don’t want the reader to know every single thing that’s going to happen. 

11. Focus on the moment where things shift. You should consider a pivotal scene in your story idea and try to build around that scene or that moment where the plot actually “shifts.” Sometimes that could be reflected in a realization by the protagonist. Other times it can be represented in some type of ironic twist at the end. By looking at that singular element of your story idea, you cut away the fat so that the reader is left only with the most resonant part of the story.

12. Establish the mundane. Mundane is just a fancy way of saying normal, but the message still rings true. Most story structures tell you to start by establishing the Ordinary World: what our protagonist’s normal life is like. This is important for showing us how important the larger conflict is, because it threatens the protagonist’s normal. In horror, establishing the mundane is arguably more important. In a story where connecting with the character and empathizing with them over the godawful stuff you, the author, put them through, the reader needs to understand just how bad life has gotten. Then you can take both your characters and your reader from a place of comfort and familiarity and plunge them into whatever shadowy hell you’ve concocted.

13. Choosing your POV. By choosing to write your story from a first-person perspective, you are putting the reader exactly where your character is. There are 2 types of third-person POV—limited and omniscient. It is advisable to stay away from omniscient. Part of writing a good horror story is withholding information from the reader, which third-person omniscient doesn’t really allow for. Considering the pros and cons of the different points of view, choose the right one for your story.

14. Avoid clichés. Clichés are boring and predictable, and a horror scene that is predictable is likely to not be scary. A good horror story can still use familiar horror tropes, but a great horror story makes them its own. Look beyond the obvious when trying to write a scary scene—what is something readers wouldn’t expect? How can you surprise them with fear? Use enough of the existing tropes to be identifiable as horror, but make sure you insert your own originality into the mix. One of the reasons people gravitate to genres in general is because they have certain expectations for what should happen in the story. Look for ways to flip archetypes on their heads.

15. Practice. If you’re struggling to get a handle on writing a good story that’s scary, practice with story prompts (see some sample prompts below). Writing prompts can expand your range of thinking and open up new avenues of imagination that you hadn’t thought of before.

Horror Writing Prompts

A scary doll comes to life.

A scene from a nightmare comes true the next day.

Days go by, and your parents don’t come home.

You feel yourself slowly becoming a monster.

Your friends start to disappear, and no one else notices.

You’re lost in the woods, and you don’t know how you got there.

You’re inhabited by a ghost that controls you and makes you do crazy things.

You have no reflection in the mirror.

The teacher is a monster, but no one will believe you.

You hypnotize your brother, and you can’t snap him out of it.

A fortune teller reveals that you are evil.

Someone follows you home, and it’s your exact double.

You find a diary that tells the future.

Every time you wake up, you’re a different person.

Your parents explain that you are actually an alien from another planet.

You know someone is watching you day and night from the house across the street.

You realize you are shrinking.

While reading a scary book, you realize that you’re a character in it.

Someone is living in your mirror.

Everyone knows the new neighbors are vampires, and the kids invite you over for a sleepover.

All the cats in a small town vanish in the middle of the night….and all that remains is a set of big, scary teeth smashed into a car door.

A group of friends takes on the zombie apocalypse.

Strange things start happening after the grandfather clock starts to speak.

You finally meet your child’s imaginary friend. Who turns out to be a serial killer.

When a local police officer goes to investigate the haunted house down the street, he finds a young girl who died decades ago.

Sources: 1 2 3 4 5 6 ⚜ Writing Notes & References

[kirbysdreamlandd]

Calm to my chaos

Hamzah X Y/N (GN)

SFW, Fluff, Hamzah X Reader

This was an Anonymous request :)

It was so fun and enjoyable to write, I sincerely hope you like it!!! (Requests open atm!)

You toss the last pillow onto the freshly made bed and step back, hands on your hips. The room looks better now; everything in its place, laundry done, clothes not piled up and tossed on the bed by Hamzah in his usual rush to “find something more comfortable.”

Your eyes drift to the nightstand, cluttered with a mix of strange AI-generated photos of Hamzah and a collection of Polaroids he’d gifted you.

One, in particular, stands out to you: a snapshot Claire had taken of the two of you cuddled on the couch. His head rested on your shoulder, and you were wearing his worn Canada hat, both of you sticky and asleep after accidentally spilling cans of Celsius on each other.

That night had started as a drunken dare to stay awake until sunrise, fueled by way too many energy drinks and the leftover buzz of the day’s events.

Neither of you made it, crashing in a heap before midnight. The morning was a blur of “peach vibe”scented regret, waiting for your clothes to finish washing in the laundry room. And that’s where it happened: Hamzah confessed his feelings as you sat perched on the vibrating machine, quietly wondering if the masturbation theory really was true.

“Celsi US ❤️” was scrawled at the bottom of the Polaroid in Hamzah’s messy handwriting. A painfully corny wordplay only he could come up with, that somehow stirred a cheesy smile in you every time.

Your thoughts wander to him. He’d been on the go all day, between filming the OOC podcast and inhaling the dinner you’d carefully plated for him after work like a perfect 1950s housewife. Then, instead of unwinding for the evening, he’d smothered you on the couch for two minutes before disappearing back into his office.

The Christmas project they were working on consumed so much of his time, leaving you with nothing but the lonely holiday breaks you had hoped to spend with him.

You grab a stray water glass from the nightstand and head toward the office. The hallway is quiet except for the faint clicking of a keyboard and an occasional muttered word—probably him cursing over Adobe Premiere again.

You push the door open gently, pausing for a moment to scan the room, almost as if you expected him to be anywhere but sitting in front of his computer.

You make your way to the water dispenser, the one you always reminded Hamzah to refill, yet there it was again: stagnant water sitting at the bottom that for some strange reason Hamzah was still adamant about drinking.

His hoodie is bunched up around his elbows, his finger rapidly tapping on the table while staring at a loading screen. His lips pursed in concentration, he seemed so lost in whatever he was doing that you almost felt guilty for even thinking about interrupting his trance.

You reached a hand on the dispenser.

The object had become a strange kind of gateway for both of you. You, of course, would never drink from it given it was clearly Hamzah’s idea to buy it in the first place. So, whenever you walked into the office and reached for the dispenser, Hamzah knew instantly you were after him and not the water.

He slightly turned his head, a half-smile quickly tugging at the corner of his lips.

He leaned back in his chair, a loud, almost exaggerated groan escaping his mouth as he stretched his arms over his head, his body slightly spasming from the effort.

The movement was dramatic, the kind of over-the-top action that only Hamzah could pull off.

He looked at you, then at your glass of water.

“Baby,” he called, his expression a mix of confusion and amusement. “What’s up? Want some water?”

He joked, a hand patting the water dispenser with a grin that was equal parts teasing and fond.

“No thanks, I’ll pass on the ancient waters that rest in this sacred device.” you quipped back, your hand now resting on the dispenser as well, locking eyes with him in a silent stare-off.

He chuckled before getting distracted by a noise coming through his headphones.

“You really should try it though.” he continued, his eyes still locked on the bright screen, a cocky smile on his lips you knew was directed to you. “How do you think I got so beautiful?”

You rolled your eyes, a disappointed yet frustrated scoff escaping your lips as you set the glass down on the table, hoping the loud clink would catch his attention. But of course, his headphones were on now, completely blocking out the world around him.

He was usually the affectionate type, even when you were the one working. He loved sitting next to you, his hand casually resting on your thigh as he scrolled through his phone, chuckling at the silly videos he stumbled upon. Sometimes he’d even comment on your work, assisted you with technical problems or just gave you a smile or nod of approval after you turned to him for feedback.

But when it came to his work, he always felt a little distant. Hours could pass with him hunched over his desk, his face and Martin’s flashing repeatedly on the screen as he clipped, trimmed, and adjusted footage.

The only time he emerged from his bubble was for the occasional bathroom break or to refill his water bottle before diving right back in.

Sure, he paid attention to you, but only if you sought it out. You had to knock, call his name, or physically step into the room to remind him you were there. Otherwise, he’d remain buried in his tasks, entirely absorbed in his world. And no matter how many times you pulled him out of it, he never stopped himself.

You leaned against the wooden rack, watching him work. His head tilted slightly, the tip of his tongue resting on his top teeth as he dragged the cursor across the screen with precision. As much as you hated him for overworking himself so much, you couldn’t help but find his focused expressions incredibly cute.

You let out a quiet sigh, wrapping your arms around yourself. The faint clatter of his keyboard softened, and when you glanced back at him, you noticed Hamzah’s gaze flick toward you. He paused his work, tilting his head slightly as if to catch your attention. A small, playful pout formed on his lips as he leaned back in his chair, his eyes wide and pleading like a puppy’s. He pursed his lips dramatically, making a soft “mwah” sound as he leaned forward, signaling for a kiss.

“Seriously?” You leaned, folding your arms even more against your chest.

His expression didn’t falter. He kept the same exaggerated pout on his lips, his big, expectant eyes locked on yours. Slowly, his headphones slipped off his head, coming to rest around his neck, his body leaning slightly toward you as if silently urging you closer.

You rolled your eyes, but the faintest smile tugged at your lips. “Okay.” you muttered, leaning down and brushing your lips against his in a quick, playful kiss.

Pulling back from him, you caught the sight of a flustered smile tugging at the corners of his lips, his cheeks faintly pink under the soft glow of the monitor.

Sliding his headphones back over his ears, he muttered a quiet, almost shy, “Love you” the words slipping out like second nature. You didn’t miss the way his tongue darted out to subtly lick his lips, a small, involuntary gesture that made you melt.

“Love you too.” you replied under your breath, knowing he wouldn’t hear you as he was already absorbed in his editing.

You made your way to the messy bed across the room, a sigh escaping you as you took in the scene. A couple of items of clothing lay haphazardly across the mattress; an old hoodie, a pair of socks half-bunched together like they’d been tossed aside by a messy boyfriend who couldn’t be bothered to clean up.

Hamzah didn’t look back, already focused on his work again, but the flustered smile lingered on his face, and you couldn’t help but feel a little proud that you’d managed to break through his usual focused working state.

You instinctively folded and placed the clothes on the edge of the bed before exhaustedly plopping yourself onto your clean side of the bed.

As you settled under the blanket, you watched him for a while longer, a small smile tugging at your lips. You loved staring at your boyfriend when he wasn’t noticing, when he was lost in his world, unaware of how intently you observed him. There was something comforting about it, the way he existed so naturally, so unguarded, even in the midst of his chaotic work.

His resting face was soft, the tension that usually marked his features fading away when he was absorbed in editing. His dark eyes darted quickly between the screen and the clips, a mix of concentration and effortless focus.

You would tease him about it often, the way his mouth was usually slightly open when he was concentrating on something. But in reality, you found it incredibly endearing.

Eventually, the rhythmic sound of his typing, the small heater emanating warm air around the room and the coziness of the blanket pulled you under, your eyes growing heavy as you drifted off to sleep, feeling completely at ease in the little space you both shared.

Rousing you up from your slumber was the faint sensation of the bed shifting.

Then came the warmth of Hamzah’s body pressed against yours, his arms wrapping around you as he cuddled up beside you.

His face nuzzled into the crook of your neck, his breathing soft but steady. “I think I need a break…” he mumbled, his voice thick with exhaustion and his jaw hitting your collarbone as he spoke.

You didn’t stir much, still half-dreaming, but you could feel the shift in the atmosphere. His usual energetic presence, always so absorbed in his work, seemed to fade as he sought the comfort of your closeness.

You let out a soft hum, your voice still heavy with sleep. “Finally realizing you’re not a robot?” you teased lightly, though your tone was warm, not sharp.

Hamzah chuckled weakly, his breath tickling your neck. “Maybe. Or maybe I just needed you to remind me.” he murmured, his words soft and unhurried.

You smiled faintly, your hand coming to rest over his where it still lingered on your abdomen. “That’s what I’m here for. To make sure you don’t completely burn out.”

He shuffled even closer, his face nestled in your passion fruit-scented hair. It was a scent he’d grown to adore, one that always brought a cheesy smile to his lips. You couldn’t help but think back to the day he bought that shampoo for you, completely clueless about hair products but determined to help when you had run out. He’d simply picked one that smelled like your favorite fruit, hoping it would please you.

Even though you’d stocked up on your preferred brand soon after, you still used the one he bought every now and then. You loved the way it made his face light up when he caught the scent, a subtle reminder of the effort he put in, even in the smallest things.

Hamzah let out a soft hum, the warmth of his breath brushing against your hair. “Yum, passion fruit.” he mumbled sleepily, his voice muffled but laced with a smile.

You chuckled, your stomach rising and falling, causing his and your hand to bounce slightly with the motion.

“I’m glad you like that shampoo,” he continued, his voice teasing but warm. “It was either that, or the one with Bluey on the packaging.”

You laughed, turning your head just enough to catch his sleepy grin. You turned back, gently shaking your head in an annoyed but amused manner.

“You say that like you wouldn’t have bought that one for yourself.” you teased, grinning at the thought.

“No” he exclaimed with mock offense, his tone exaggerated and dramatic. “You would never let me.”

His head shifted, his nose brushing against your shoulder as he adjusted closer. The exaggerated pout on his lips melted away, replaced by soft, tender kisses planted along your back. Each one was unhurried, a quiet apology for his earlier teasing and an expression of the affection he couldn’t easily put into words. You interlocked your fingers with his, still resting on your stomach.

“I’m glad you’re here.” Hamzah murmured, his breath warm against your skin. You smiled softly, gently squeezing his hand into yours.

“And not just because you clean up my mess.” he added.

You scoffed playfully, lightly slapping the back of his hand.

He paused for a moment, his breathing shifting as he seemed to collect his thoughts.

“Actually, it is because of that.” he continued, his hand moving away from your stomach and slowly drifting up your torso. “You clean up my mess. Whether it’s in my house or in my mind.”

His voice was firm now, his words no longer just a casual remark but a deep, genuine expression as he leaned in closer.

His arm wrapped around you like a safety belt, a hand resting softly on your heart, making you feel if his words were reaching deep inside you.

“You’re the calm to my chaos.” His words hung between you, and you could feel your heartbeat slow as it was enveloped by the warmth of Hamzah’s hand covering your chest.

You rested your head against his, your fingers gently tracing the outline of his arm, shivers running down from it from your touch. The quiet breathing against your ear, his subtle shifts as he held you close, it all blended into a perfect harmony, a peaceful rhythm that wrapped you both the comforting embrace of eachother.

[on-a-lucky-tide]

Price has never experienced affection like he gets from Nikolai.

cw: societal expectations of men in relationships.

Price yawned into the back of his hand and stretched his legs out as Die Hard trailed off into adverts, toes wriggling inside the warm fleece socks Carol had sent him for Christmas.

He and Nik had headed home after tucking Kimmy in bed and sharing a quick Brandy in Carol's living room, and their bellies were still full with Morrison's Finest Turkey crown and homemade trifle. Price had never felt so... content.

"We could get one of those," Nik said, inclining his head towards the telly.

"Hm?"

"A Nespresso machine."

"Oh, yeah, if ya want."

Price wasn't really paying attention, because in the brief moment he had leaned forward to grab his mug of tea from the battered coffee table, Nik had rested an arm across the back of the sofa and was now playing idly with Price's hair.

It tickled. A little. Pleasant little shivers skittered down Price's neck and over his shoulders, only intensifying when Nik moved down to stroke the soft skin beneath his ear, just beyond the line of his beard. Small circles with the tip of one finger, and then a longer stroke down his neck with three.

Nik's hands were so big. Like huge bear paws when they settled at Price's waist or cupped his face when they kissed. Price felt intimately vulnerable as they caressed his neck and hair so tenderly now, and he blinked a little faster to try and clear the fuzzy contentment blurring his vision. Perhaps Nik was asking for more.

Price was bloody knackered. All he wanted to do was see that German bastard fall off that tower and then pass out, but Nik had been an absolute gentleman today. Perfect with Carol and Kimmy, doing all the washing up, serving Kimmy her Ribena like a waiter and making her giggle, building the Barbie Dream House contraption with a Philip's screwdriver and endless patience. Bloody hell, a blowjob was the least Price could do if that's what he was anglin' for.

"Nik, did you want... uh, you know..."

"Hm?"

"Well, you know..." Price reached up to take Nik's hand and hold the palm to his lips, his gaze dropping to Nik's lap.

"Ah, nyet, solnyshko," Nik smiled fondly, cupping that same hand around Price's jaw to draw him over. He kissed Price's forehead and then bumped their noses together. "I am too tired, your sister's cooking has me in a, what to say, a food coma. Izvini. Perhaps tomorrow morning."

"Ah, 'course... sure." Price sat back up and took another swig of tea, but Nik's hand didn't leave. It returned to his neck, squeezing his shoulder a little, circling his bicep, before slipping back into his hair. It was nice. Really bloody nice. Price couldn't remember the last person that had touched him without expecting something in return, other than a medic trying to save his life.

His eyes drooped as the film continued, but he only followed the dialogue in passing, his attention completely homed in on the trail of warmth and tingles left behind by Nik's touch. His shoulders relaxed, his ankle slipping from where it had settled on top of his knees, and--

"Ah, careful," Nik said softly, catching Price's mug before it spilled lukewarm tea over his tartan pyjama bottoms.

"Oh, uh, sorry, must'a nodded off."

"Da," Nik took the mug from Price's hands and returned it to the coffee table. When he sat back, he tugged gently at the side of Price's head and patted his lap. "Here, lay down."

Price blinked. "Really?"

Nik's smile was soft, head tilted, and he nodded insistently. They had been dating for a few months now. The sex was good; mind-blowing, in fact. But they had so few occasions to be close in any other way. If they weren't working, they were fucking, and if they weren't fucking then they were asleep in a tangle of limbs, grateful to still be alive and in each other's arms, but too exhausted to do much more. That was the nature of who they were, what they did.

These quiet moments, with nothing to worry about but spilling tea on your lap as you nodded off like an old man in his recliner, were rare. A date in Berlin, a walk in the local woodlands around Hereford, a trip to Brighton to browse the Lanes. Not much. But each time, Nik had surprised Price with something new. Pulling the chair out for him and walking him back to his hotel room in Berlin, holding his hand on their walk and scooping him into a kiss by an old willow tree, cupping his waist and resting his chin on top of his head as they gazed into shop fronts in Brighton. Small acts of affection that left Price stupidly breathless for how simple they were.

This was yet another thing Price had never experienced. Sure, he'd wanted to. Four partners in his lifetime, two serious enough to bring them back to his flat for more than just sex, but he would have never dreamed of asking them to cuddle him, or let him lay in their lap. They would have glanced up and down his bearded, six foot two frame, with weathered hands and scarred skin, and laughed in his face.

He was the cuddler, the pair of shoulders, the strong hands, the warm body against their back. He didn't get those things because that wasn't his role, right? In any relationship, he had to demonstrate his love through quiet strength and resilience. A man, the man was expected to perform in a certain way and not expect more than access to sex and to perform romance on someone else, certainly not have it in return. That was what he had been raised on, and Nik was just blowing it all out of the water.

Price swallowed, glanced from Nik's face to his lap and back again. When Nik raised both eyebrows and gestured again, Price finally shifted over to lay down. His head ended up against the cushion on the other side, his arm slanted down between Nik's legs. Nik pulled the fleece blanket from the back of the sofa and draped it over Price's curled body before lounging back into the deep pillows himself. It was comfortable, natural, and Price allowed himself a small wriggle of happiness.

But when Nik's hands settled on him again, Price thought he was about to elevate out of his body in pure bliss. Strong fingers pushed into his hair, while the other palm slid beneath the blanket to stroke idly over his arm and side. Price ignored the film in favour of closing his eyes to relish every flutter of sensation against his skin. The way Nik petted his hair, occasionally scratching lightly against his scalp, was heaven on earth. A thumb smoothed over one of Price's eyebrows and then followed his sideburn into his beard. "Ahh, better than any lap cat," Nik said fondly.

"Careful, might get m' claws out."

"Close your eyes and purr. It will be our secret."

Price chuckled softly, even rolled his tongue against the roof of his mouth to imitate a purr, much to Nik's delight, but he was soon drifting into a deeper, fluffier headspace that left him quiet but for muted sighs.

His toes curled when Nik scratched his nails lightly over the curve of his arse through the brushed cotton of his pyjamas and then again through his t-shirt on the back of his shoulder; a pleasant tingle blossoming through his skin beneath the duel sensation of soft material and blunt nails, leaving behind goosebumps and faint echoes of pleasure until Price's entire body was humming.

Nik alternated between that, a flat palm, scattered fingertips in large circles that eventually slid his t-shirt higher up his ribs beneath the blanket. Nik mapped his body reverently, lingering over the different textures of scars and moles, the fuzz of his belly and the silky soft skin beneath his arm. Price wasn't sure what he liked best. All of it. He liked all of it. Nik's big hands made him feel... safe. Cradled. They were warm, firm, assured equally in their tenderness as they were in their strength.

Price knew his body was translating the pleasure into arousal. There was a tension in his hips and his prick had chubbed up, but he was content to ignore it. It didn't matter. This was what he wanted - what he needed - right now. The man he loved touching him like he mattered as more than a warm body to have some fun with. That he was deserving of this innocent love, even with all the shit he had done, even being who he was.

A tightness prickled behind Price's eyes, a slight knot in his throat, but he swallowed it down, breathing softly through it until the sudden surge of emotion calmed. Mind and body running a gauntlet of emotions and sensations to try and translate the deep contentment it was experiencing, Price reasoned.

It was good. He could enjoy this. He could want this and Nik wouldn't think less of him. Nik was enjoying it too. Price could tell in the way he touched - occasional squeezes, lingering caresses, the change of pace, pressure and location because he wanted to feel all of Price at once - the slow, deep breaths he was drawing in as the act of doting on his lover was lulling him into a doze. This was what love felt like, wasn't it? This is what he had been missing all these years.

Price wasn't sure when they both fell asleep, but when he woke some hours later, another film on the television and the orange street lamps streaming in through the gap in the curtains, he only rolled over and nuzzled his face into the plush warmth of Nik's belly and closed his eyes again. This was where he belonged; safe and warm in Nik's hands.

[kidrat]

having feelings about trans Gwen,,, like there's the 'superhero leading a double life' allegory for being closeted, which ppl have noted, but there's plenty I haven't seen anyone mention yet! like, the fact her dad has a trans patch in support of her means she's out.

She's a young trans *girl* (as opposed to a trans woman) living as her authentic gender in a loving home. she went to her school dance in a dress. she did ballet! which of course boys can do too, but often times when people are assigned male they don't get the chance to explore feminine hobbies. It's really lovely that someone, likely Gwen's dad, supported her enough to let her have those girly experiences and memories, whether she was living as a girl when she took dance up or as a gnc boy.

While it's subtle rep, I still think it's awesome to imply a character like Gwen is trans. Trans girls don't always get to have a childhood. Transmisogyny fetishizes transfems and presents them as always victimisers, never victims. They're barred from girlhood and it's connotations of innocence, vulnerability, lovableness.

Not that Gwen isn't a hashtag strong female character! And not that she hasn't had to grow up fast in other ways. She Is Literally Spiderwoman and she plays the drums and has agency and expresses negative emotions. But she's also a teenager, and she gets to be hugged and comforted, and to be set up for a soft friends to lovers relationship with another teenager, a cis boy who respects her and only knows her as a girl and thinks she's amazing and draws her in his sketchbook. That is not a role the media often lets trans girls have!!! It's lovely to think young transfems might be able to see themselves in a character consistently shown as worthy of affection.

Of course, the fact that Gwen is in the closet about being spider-woman is even sadder knowing this is her second rodeo. Lots of us have hesitated to come out a second time because our parents were supportive about the first thing and well, putting something else on them feels like taking the piss or hoping for too much.

Something else I wanted to talk about is how Gwen being trans effects a reading of her Peter's death, especially taking into account the new information this film gave us about this. There's this gendered switch happening, where Peter passes on his usual role to a woman. What's more, he has to die for her story to happen. She loves him, and never wanted him to die, but she's blamed for it anyway. Her father talks affectionately about the dead Peter, calling him his daughter's best friend. He talks about him like a son. He vows revenge on Gwen for killing him. It's a fantastic allegory for how some transphobic parents hate their out trans children for 'killing' the kid they had before.

I think with the above in mind, maybe we can see the subtext of Gwen's arc with her dad in this film as that of a supportive parent who's nevertheless got some biases left that hurt his trans daughter, who doesn't speak up for fear his acceptance is conditional.

I don't think it's a stretch to suggest that protecting a trans daughter is this Captain Stacy's motivation while he's working as a cop. Obviously there's the text that he wants to be a 'good cop' to work against the institution's bigotry, and he displays the trans flag on his work jacket. His quitting the police is a fantastic story beat because it makes a point about the real world while also serving a lot of the analogies going on.

Good cops quit. They realise you can't be a well intentioned cog in a bigoted machine. It doesn't matter if you're a bigot or just taking actions a bigot might because you're working within parameters set by bigots. It's an important message. Within a trans reading of the film, I'd also see this plot moment as Stacy realising he can't protect his trans daughter if he's still playing by the rules of a society that see her as threatening and duplicitous. He's then able to stop seeing her on some level as having killed his son.

They're able to be close again because he has completely rejected the cis culture he was a part of, rather than just decrying the worst parts and slotting Gwen in. She no longer has to worry that he'll rescind his acceptance if she's too trans, and so he gets to know all of her because she can let him into her world without self-editing.

Anyway, those are my thoughts on Gwen after watching Across The Spiderverse two hours ago lmao.

[fawnnpaws]

Art donaldson the picky sleeper who needs a night light, weighted blanket and ocean sounds

Probably a mouth guard and eyemask

While patrick could sleep on a pile of pointy rocks stretched out, drooling like a content cat

Patrick who sleeps like all his bones are broken and watches horror films to relax

these two attempting to sleep with their beds pushed together like how did yall make this work……

patrick is used to crashing face first into a bed and falling asleep to literally anything, so it’s not totally crazy for him to suddenly become apart of art’s nighttime routine. i think it happens gradually, art just keeps adding things to the routine and patrick goes alone with it. first it’s the eye mask, then the mouthguard, then the sound machine, and finally he gets a weighted blanket one year for christmas.

patrick gives him so much shit for being so high maintinence, but neglects to mention that he actually sleeps a lot better with the ocean sounds running in the background. the sound machine even has a little night light and art let’s patrick choose the color they go to sleep to each night so he feels included.

patrick is a fucking blanket hog, but art is a blanket kicker so they have a symbiotic relationship with the weighted blanket situation. the real crux of how they sleep so well though is that fact that they always end up curled up together like kittens before they’re even fully asleep. art will toss his leg over patrick’s hips one night, patrick will spoon him the next, then get huffy when art doesn’t spoon him back the night after so art wraps himself around patrick the night after that.

but like…… no homo or whatever…..

[misswynters]

Gym Confession

tom taylor x gn! reader

word count: 1.3k

a/n: the fic i’m writing for aeron/benji/reader is taking forever so here’s another one!@benjicotblckwood

The early morning sun peeked through the windows of the gym, casting a warm glow on the equipment. You and Tom Taylor had made it a habit to work out together whenever your schedules allowed. Today was one of those rare days where neither of you had any pressing commitments, and you were determined to make the most of it.

Tom was already at the gym when you arrived, warming up with some stretches. He flashed you a bright smile as you approached. "Hey! Ready to get started?"

"Absolutely," you replied, returning his smile. "What's the plan for today?"

He glanced at his phone, where he'd made a rough outline of the workout. "I was thinking we could start with some cardio, then move on to strength training. How does that sound?"

"Perfect," you said, feeling a rush of excitement. Working out with Tom was always fun; his enthusiasm and positive energy were contagious.

You both hopped on adjacent treadmills and began your warm-up. As the treadmills hummed beneath you, Tom started to talk about his latest project. "So, we've just wrapped up filming, and I think this one's going to be really special. The script was incredible, and the cast was amazing."

"That's great to hear," you said, slightly breathless as you picked up the pace. "I can't wait to see it. You're always so passionate about your work."

Tom grinned, clearly pleased. "Thanks. It means a lot to hear that from you."

After the cardio session, you moved on to the weight machines. Tom adjusted the settings on one of the machines and gestured for you to take the first turn. "How about we start with some leg presses?"

You nodded, positioning yourself on the machine. As you began your set, Tom stood by, offering encouragement. "You've got this. Keep your back straight and push through your heels."

His supportive words and watchful eye helped you maintain proper form, and before you knew it, you'd finished your set. Tom took his turn next, and you returned the favor, cheering him on.

"Come on, Tom! You make this look easy," you teased, watching as he effortlessly completed his reps.

He laughed, the sound bright and genuine. "Don't be fooled. I'm working hard here."

The two of you moved through the rest of your workout, alternating between different exercises and machines. Between sets, you chatted about everything from favorite movies to weekend plans, the conversation flowing naturally and easily.

As the session drew to a close, you both found yourselves at the stretching area, cooling down with some light stretches. Tom reached over and handed you a bottle of water. "Here, you need to stay hydrated."

"Thanks," you said, taking a grateful sip. "I think that was one of our best workouts yet."

"I agree," Tom said, his eyes meeting yours with a warm, genuine expression. "I always look forward to these sessions. It's nice to have a workout partner who pushes me and keeps things fun."

"Right back at you," you replied, feeling a sense of camaraderie and appreciation. "You make it so much easier to stay motivated."

As you both finished your stretches, Tom glanced at his watch. "Hey, I've got a bit of time before my next appointment. How about we grab a smoothie or something?"

"That sounds great," you said, smiling. "I know just the place."

You both headed out of the gym, the sun now higher in the sky, promising a beautiful day ahead. The nearby smoothie bar was a favorite of yours, known for its delicious and healthy options. As you walked, Tom fell into step beside you, the easy conversation continuing.

When you reached the smoothie bar, you both ordered your favorites and found a table by the window. As you sipped your drinks, Tom leaned back in his chair, a contented look on his face.

"Days like this are the best," he said, his eyes reflecting a sense of peace. "Good workout, good company, and a great smoothie to top it off."

You nodded in agreement, feeling a similar sense of satisfaction. "Couldn't agree more. It's nice to take a break and enjoy the little things."

Tom's gaze softened as he looked at you, his smile gentle. "You know, I'm really glad we do this. It means a lot to have you as a friend and workout partner."

"Same here," you replied, your heart warming at his words. "Here's to many more workouts and smoothies together."

Tom raised his smoothie cup in a mock toast, and you clinked yours against it, both of you laughing. It was moments like these that made you appreciate the special bond you shared, built on mutual respect, support, and genuine friendship.

As you finished your drinks and prepared to head your separate ways, you couldn't help but notice the way Tom's eyes lingered on you a little longer than usual. There was something in his gaze, a hint of unspoken tension that hadn't been there before.

Later that week, you and Tom found yourselves at the gym again, ready for another workout. This time, there was a slight awkwardness in the air, a tension that neither of you had addressed yet.

Tom adjusted the settings on the bench press, his movements more deliberate than usual. "Let's start with this today."

You nodded, sensing the change in his demeanor. As you took your turn on the bench press, you could feel his eyes on you, watching your every move. When it was his turn, you stood by, offering the same encouragement he always gave you.

"Come on, lord of the north. You got this," you said, trying to keep the tone light.

He managed a small smile but didn't respond with his usual banter. Instead, he focused on his reps, the silence between you growing heavier with each passing moment.

After finishing the set, Tom sat up, wiping sweat from his forehead. He glanced at you, his expression conflicted. "There's something I need to talk to you about."

You felt a knot form in your stomach. "Okay. What's going on?"

Tom took a deep breath, his eyes searching yours. "I... I've been feeling something more than just friendship between us. And I didn't want to say anything because I didn't want to ruin what we have. But it's getting harder to ignore."

Your heart raced, a mixture of emotions swirling inside you. You had always valued your friendship with Tom, but now you were forced to confront feelings you hadn't fully acknowledged.

"I don't want to ruin what we have either," you said softly. "But I can't deny that there's something there."

Tom's eyes softened, relief washing over his features. "So, what do we do?"

You took a deep breath, trying to steady your racing thoughts. "I think we need to be honest with each other. We can take things slow and see where it goes. But whatever happens, I don't want to lose our friendship."

Tom nodded, a small smile forming on his lips. "I can agree to that. Slow and honest."

The tension between you eased slightly, replaced by a sense of anticipation and curiosity about what the future might hold. As you continued your workout, the unspoken understanding between you added a new layer to your interactions.

Later, as you cooled down with some light stretches, Tom reached over and gently squeezed your hand. "Thanks for being honest with me. It means a lot."

You squeezed his hand back, feeling a sense of connection that was deeper than ever. "Thank you for bringing it up. I'm glad we talked about it."

As you both left the gym and headed to the smoothie bar once again, the conversation flowed more easily. There was still a lot to figure out, but you knew that with honesty and openness, you could navigate this new phase of your relationship together. Sitting at the same table by the window, sipping your smoothies, you felt a renewed sense of optimism.

[canmom]

Animation Night 189: Nonphotorealistic

There is a funny trend in animation-related terminology to define things by what they aren't. Animation is any technique for creating film that isn't live action. Limited animation is any style of 2D animation that doesn't follow the conventions of Disney's 'full animation' on 1s and 2s - a category that includes a wildly diverse range of approaches and techniques, as this wonderful history by Animation Obsessive describes.

In 3DCG circles, there is a similar term: nonphotorealistic. Which describes, naturally, anything that isn't trying to look like a photograph of a real scene. There has been a real boom in this of late, and just like the other terms, it really doesn't narrow it down very much. Other terms like 'hybrid animation' add a bit more hints.

Of course, if you've been anywhere near animation in the last few years, you'll probably know another term: 'Spiderverse style'.

There is no denying that Spider-Man: Into the Spiderverse (2018) by Sony Pictures Animation was an absolute landmark for animation. (I wrote about it way back on AN21, focusing more on the cultural angle.) The ludicrously stylish film pretty much set the direction for animation in the 2020s - making a bunch of money and awards and thus finally throwing open the door to 3DCG animation that doesn't look like the style set by Pixar/Dreamworks in the 2000s. Its sequel, Across the Spiderverse (2023), was even more ambitious and successful (despite a troubled production involving a lot of needless crunch). We'll be showing that soon in a Spiderverse double bill so look forward to it!

So perhaps not surprising that when people see the use of graphical styles, 2D elements, limited framerates and the like in 3DCG these days, Spiderverse comes to mind. In its wake have come various films and series that apply these and related techniques: 3DCG animation is more varied than ever, and it's cool.

It isn't really a style, tho.

Here I'm indebted to youtuber Camwing who has made a nice video overview breaking down the animation of recent movies in this vaguely defined paradigm. Among them we have The Mitchells vs the Machines (2021, also Sony), Puss in Boots: The Last Wish (2022, Dreamworks), and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023, animated at the French/Canadian studio Mikros animation), and of course over on Netflix you got the wildly popular League of Legends spinoff series Arcane (2021, Fortiche Productions), and the romance film Entergalactic (2022, DNEG), tying in with an album of the same name.

None of these films has exactly the same style, but they all pull from a related bag of tricks. The core techniques are animating on reduced framerates for a 'snappy', high-clarity feeling, the combination of 2D and 3D elements in some fashion, and taking inspiration from traditional media such as paintings or comic books.

For example, Arcane and Entergalactic both use the trick of 2D backgrounds/projecting paintings onto 3D geometry, inhabited by 3D characters with a stylised shader. Arcane is dripping with 2D visual effects. Puss in Boots drops the framerate during its action scenes - the opposite of the old paradigm of full animation, where fast actions would get more frames. Spiderverse draws 2D expressions onto its 3D models to push them further, and is full of all kinds of colourful stylised rendering - screentone effects, kirby dots, outlines, the works.

It's tempting to link this to 2D-in-3D animation, and certainly many of these films apply this technique - this is the major niche where Blender has found its way into industry pipelines. But using 2D isn't mandatory to count here. For example, TMNT Mutant Mayhem has an incredibly striking storybook-painting style, accomplished largely by clever shader work and a strong sense of graphic design. Genndy Tartakovsky's canned 2014 Popeye project was planning to use a ton of 2D-style posing and squash-and-stretch, accomplished largely with rigged 3D models. There are many paths to take!

And mind you, I haven't even covered one of the biggest angles here. Search for nonphotorealistic 3DCG on Youtube and what you'll probably find most is information about cel-shading - aka 'anime style'. This has also advanced considerably in the last few years, with the techniques pioneered by Arc System Works in Guilty Gear such as editing the normals of characters for more precise control over shading, and minute adjustments to break up the mechanical feeling of 3D, becoming widely copied in both games and films. (And particularly, animated porn.)

Vtubers in particular have really run with this technique, generally speaking using cel-shaded models with edited normals, inverted eyes, etc. etc. to try and get the feeling of an anime character come to life. [You can see a lot of these state of the art techniques if you download Pixiv's free VRoid Studio software and import the model into Blender using the VRM plugin.]

Naturally this kind of cel-shaded approach has found a particular home in Japan. In anime, the biggest champions of it are certainly Studio Orange, whose hybrid approach involves planning out shots with 2D animation before matching them with the rigs. We've covered their adaptation of Houseki no Kuni in great detail on Animation Night 97; their Trigun reboot was perhaps even more popular. But cel-shaded techniques, 3D previs and the like have also made their way into big films like Eva 3.0+1.0 (AN66).

Although this type of rendering aims to recreate the look and feel of 2D animation as much as possible, it always ends up being something new: character models that would be too complex to draw, an ease to 3D movements and camerawork that would be challenging in 2D, and generally a new hybrid style. This is good! 2D animation is already very good at being 2D animation - it's fascinating to see what 3DCG becomes with that inspiration.

So with that brief overview, where does that take us tonight?

I'm not quite ready to do a Spiderverse double bill tonight, so instead the plan is to check out a couple of recent American franchise films that are taking on the new suite of techniques. I've mentioned them up above, but let me introduce them more fully here.

Puss in Boots: The Last Wish is a sequel to a fairly unpopular spinoff about a side character of the Shrek franchise (AN75). Not, on its face, very promising - which is why it is all the more striking that I was told on all sorts of sides that I must watch this movie. I'm finally going to make good on that.

The title character is a kind of feline musketeer type, now facing the end of his swashbuckling career as he's lost 8 of his 9 lives. Not wanting to hang up his hat, he goes on a quest to restore them. What makes it stand out its the action scenes, which go all in on the anime-influenced, extreme perspective and lighting, limited framerate style that we're discussing above. Apparently it looks sick as shit.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem is a fresh reboot of the venerable TMNT franchise, which pretty much describes itself in the title: four turtles (named after Renaissance painters, of course!) live in a sewer as ninjas, led by their aging master who is a rat. Starting as a comic book, it became one of the iconic toyline-driven TV shows of the 80s - but it's still going! Indeed, Turtles has been on a roll of late (at least going by animator scuttlebutt), with Australian studio Flying Bark Productions turning a lot of heads with their neo-Kanada School style (and for really stretching the definition of 'storyboard').

This new film takes a different approach to the bombastic action of Rise. It focuses on a new origin story for the turtles, telling a kind of coming of age story - but what makes it unique is the animation style and cinematography. Cinéma vérité is not a phrase you really expect to be associated with ninja turtles, but the film seems to really go all out in a way you wouldn't really expect from a franchise movie, shooting the young turtles in a handheld style and focus heavily on character. Marcel Reinhard's shader work, allowing the animators to isolate lights to specific objects and characters and introducing graphical elements of cross-hatching, stippling, etc. etc. to the lighting, gives it a uniquely painting-like feeling, augmented by a lot of 2D creativity in lighting and effects.

Turtles has never really been my thing, but this film looks unique enough that I really want to see it - and I hear it's a good film too.

So that's our bill for tonight! Puss and Turtles. Let's see what the big studios have been cooking of late...

Animation Night 189 will be starting around 10pm UK time (roughly three hours hence) and carrying on til about 2-3am same! We'll be on twitch.tv/canmom as usual. Hope to see you there!

[sycamorelibrary754]

Trick or Treat

Summary: You and Natasha celebrate Nikolai’s first Halloween with your family and friends. 

Pairings: Natasha x Reader, Avengers x Reader

Genre: Fluff

Word Count: 3.7k

Warnings: None

A/N: As always, this story can be enjoyed independently, but if you're curious about the family's rich backstory, check out my ‘Home is Anywhere You Are’ Holiday Series. Happy Halloween!

The digital clock cast a faint blue light in your dimly lit bedroom. You gathered all the necessary sewing supplies from your closet and carefully retrieved the baby monitor from your nightstand. Natasha was still lost in slumber, and you were determined to keep it that way. Her late-night training sessions meant she often didn't return from the compound until midnight. "So much for semi-retirement," you thought with a wry smile. Nevertheless, it allowed you time to get started on your family’s Halloween costumes before Nikolai woke up. He had recently started sleeping longer stretches at night, so you knew you had a small window to work.

You and Nat decided to channel your inner witches and style your costumes after your all-time favorite Halloween film, Hocus Pocus. The plan was for you, Natasha, and Yelena to dress up as the Sanderson sisters while baby Nikolai would be Max. As you looked at images from the movie on your iPad, you heard a tiny meow from the corner of the room. Liho hurried into the room and hopped onto the loveseat beside you. 

You couldn't help but smile and say, "Your Binx costume looks great, Liho. Did you make it yourself?"

You carefully began to measure and cut up the softest, coziest fabrics, envisioning the adorable little costume you would create for Nikolai's first Halloween. It felt like just yesterday that you had unexpectedly given birth to Nik at the Barton's on Easter, but seven months had flown by in the blink of an eye. He was reaching a new milestone every day, getting closer to crawling and constantly scooting across the floor in his adorable army-crawl style. Natasha couldn't resist capturing every precious moment on her phone, and she filled the team group chat continuously with Nik's videos and photos.

You wanted Halloween to be just as magical as it was when you were a kid. Your mom used to handcraft all of your Halloween costumes, and now, as a mom yourself, you understand just how unique that tradition was. You've never been as skilled with a sewing machine as your mother, but you're giving it a shot. 

"Ouch," you hiss as a bobby pin pricks your fingers. Well, if anything, the blood spots might add to the spooky charm of the costumes.

An hour later, you could see the fruits of your labor taking shape. The room was filled with the colorful fabric of the costumes, each piece carefully pinned into place. You had meticulously sewn the primary layer of each outfit. Each stitch was a step closer to bringing your creative vision to life.

“Hey there," a familiar, raspy voice said.

You looked up and saw your wife shuffling into the room. Her socked feet padded along the floor, and sleep was still evident in her eyes.

"Good morning, honey," you said, kissing her lips. "I thought I’d start the Halloween costumes before Nik wakes up."

"Mmm," Nat hummed. "I’m looking forward to seeing how they turn out. I've never had a homemade costume before. Well, except for the ones Stark makes."

Nat settled into a nearby loveseat, tucking one leg under her body as she watched you work. The hum of the sewing machine filled the air as the needle danced up and down, leaving a trail of perfectly spaced stitches. Your fingers moved precisely, gently yet firmly guiding the fabric through the machine. Your movements were fluid and precise.

You paused to change the thread, and Nat saw the intricate patterns and textures unfolding on the fabric. Your focus was intent, and your brow was slightly furrowed in concentration. The air was filled with the scent of fabric, and the soft whir of the machine created a soothing background hum.

Suddenly, Nikolai’s soft whimper emitted from the baby monitor as if on cue. 

“I guess that's the end of this work session,” you sighed, about to rise from your chair. 

“It’s okay, Y/N. I got him,” Natasha said, touching your shoulder. 

Thanks, sweetheart," you replied.

A few moments later, you heard Nik's bedroom door creak and Natasha's voice coming through the baby monitor.

"Good morning, my malen'kiy mal'chik

(little boy)," Nat said softly.

You could hear Nik responding to Natasha's voice with baby babbles. 

"Hey, Nikolai. Look at my big boy! Did you have a nice sleep?" she asked.

You heard your wife humming a gentle Russian lullaby, the same one she had sung to him since he was born, before saying, "Shall we go see Mommy, huh? Let's go, little one.”

Natasha strolled into the room, gently holding your son in her arms. The little red bedhead hair on his head is a beautiful reminder of your wife.

"There's Nikolai!" you say with a smile. "Hi, baby."

Nik reaches for you, his Y/E/C eyes sparkling as he smiles at you and wiggles his legs. 

As you hold your son in your arms, he reaches for a strand of your Y/E/C hair.

You carefully turned him around to face forward and asked, "Do you want to see your Halloween costume?"

You show Nikolai the purple tye-die fabric you used to sew his shirt, and he eagerly reaches for it, attempting to put it in his mouth.

"I think he approves," Natasha remarked with a smile.

*^~^*

After dedicating several more days to carefully sewing and enduring a few more pinpricks, you finally finished the Halloween costumes. On Halloween day, Yelena arrived early to play with Nikolai before the three of you got ready for the evening. It was going to be a quick night. Natasha had promised Melina and Alexi that you would stop at their place before heading to the compound for Tony’s annual team Halloween party. There would be enough time for everyone to dote on your son and maybe even sneak some candy for your secret chocolate stash that Nat pretends not to know about.

Nikolai was all set and looked adorable in Max’s vibrant tie-dye shirt, splashed with shades of purple, green, and red. The soft baby sweatpants added to his cozy ensemble, and to top it all off, he sported a pair of baby Nike Air sneakers.

Yelena called from the bedroom, “Okay, I am ready for my grand entrance.” 

“Enter away,” Natasha yelled as you both sat cross-legged on the floor while Nik played on his Activity Play Mat. 

Yelena made a vibrant entrance into the room, embodying the enchanting spirit of Sara Sanderson. Her stunning blend of pink and purple gown hugged her figure with a corset-style top that perfectly showcased her lively and playful energy. She truly stood out as the youngest and most captivating sister—something she delights in, reminding everyone after your deep dive into Hocus Pocus. A luxurious purple cloak draped elegantly over her shoulders while her long, flowing blonde hair tumbled down her back in soft waves. The finishing touch? A striking dark nude lipstick that added an alluring flair to her already magical look.

“Wow, you look fantastic, sestra!” Nat exclaimed.

Yelena shot back with a playful smirk, “I know, right? You outdid yourself, Y/N.”

You felt your cheeks heat, a mix of pride and a bit of shyness as you tried to brush off the compliment.

“Your turn, you two,” Yelena said. “I’ll wait here with the man of the house.”

You and Natasha scampered off to change into your costumes. Meanwhile, Yelena sat down next to Nikolai.

Yelena leaned closer, a mischievous glint in her eye. “Let’s play along and rave about their costumes, but deep down, we both know mine’s the showstopper, right, little Nik?” 

Your baby boy gurgled happily, his laughter bubbling over like a secret only they shared. in response. 

"That's what I thought," she replied with a knowing smile.

 “Okay, we’re ready.” Natasha called out a few minutes later, her voice echoing through the hall.

Yelena responded with equal enthusiasm, “So are we!”

Natasha was the first to enter the room, embodying Winnie's character. She wore a striking green-and-purple dress that flowed elegantly around her, the colors vivid and eye-catching. The matching cape billowed as she moved. The Hocus Pocus Spell Book was clutched in her hands, its worn cover hinting at countless magical secrets. She styled her red hair perfectly, teased it high, and held it in place with impressive hairspray, creating a dramatic silhouette. Excess blush on her cheeks gave her an almost doll-like appearance, while bright red lipstick completed the look, making her smile pop against her fair complexion.

You followed closely behind as Mary, capturing the quirky spirit of the middle sister. Your outfit boasted a fabulous, mismatched patterned dress that swirled with a rainbow of fabrics and colors. Atop your head sat the iconic hairdo, resembling a strangely shaped ice cream cone. A deep red cloak cascaded over your ensemble, adding an air of mystery. Eerie accessories—like dangling charms and spooky jewelry—clattered softly with every step. Your dark eye makeup dramatically framed your eyes, enhancing the playful spookiness of your costume. Your bright red lips completed the transformation, making you feel utterly enchanting.

“Wow, you two look incredible!” Yelena burst out. “Don’t you think so, Nikolai?” Yelena said, looking down at the baby.

Your son erupted into gleeful laughter, his eyes sparkling with delight as if he genuinely grasped every word his aunt had shared. 

"I couldn't agree more." Yelena continued, giving your son a playful wink that made him giggle even harder.

After a whirlwind of Halloween family photos, everyone piled into the car for the drive to Melina and Alexi’s house.

“Are you ready to see your babushka and dedushka, Nik?” Natasha asked, her eyes sparkling in the rearview mirror as she glanced back at your son’s eager face peeking from his reverse car seat.

“Mama’s right, buddy,” said Yelena with a playful smile. “Get ready for a mountain of cheek-squeezing and an avalanche of snuggles and kisses. They can’t wait to spoil you!”

“Have your parents ever celebrated Halloween?” you asked, tilting your head curiously at Natasha.

She let out a long sigh. “Well, there was that one year back in Ohio when they got creative and turned every room in our house into a different trick-or-treat stop. They didn't want the neighbors to see us, so it was like a private haunted tour.”

“So, basically, the answer is no,” Yelena quipped, her expression as deadpan as ever.

Sometimes, it's easy to forget the weight of Natasha and Yelena’s past. Their childhood was an elaborate illusion, where genuine memories were just a flickering mirage. You couldn’t wait to create new memories with your son. Each moment was a chance to build something real and joyful that could help your wife heal her inner child, too.

*^~^*

As you parked the car in front of Alexi and Melina's home, an impressive display of Halloween decorations immediately caught your eye. Towering above the porch were two enormous inflatables—one was a bright orange pumpkin, its mischievous grin glowing against the dusk, and the other a ghost, swaying gently in the evening breeze, its expression delightfully eerie. 

The porch was draped with thick, wispy cobwebs that shimmered in the fading light, creating an elaborate, spooky atmosphere. Jack-o'-lanterns flickered with candlelight, casting playful shadows that danced on the walls.

“Oh my God,” you murmured, taking in the scene with astonishment.

“Wow,” Nat addedsaid, her eyes sparkling as she tried to draw Nikolai’s attention toward the decorations.

“Sure,” Yelena saidchimed in, her tone an uninterested contrast to the festive surroundings. She was unimpressed but unable to hide a slight smirk as she surveyed the porch.

You rapped your knuckles against the front door, the sound echoing in the quiet evening. Inside, you could hear the faint rustling of movement.

“Who’s there?” Alexi’s voice called through the door, a hint of playfulness lacing his tone.

“It’s us, Dad!” Natasha replied, her voice bright with anticipation. “Open the door!”

A mischievous grin crept across his face as he asked, “What’s the password?”

“For God’s sake,” Yelena exasperated. “It’s not a password, you doofus.”

“Yes, it is. You must request a trick or a treat!” Alexi exclaimed. 

“Oh my God,” Yelena muttered.

“Come on, he's having fun,” you said, playfully nudging your sister-in-law.

“Trick or Treat,” you all said in unison. 

“There it is!” Alexi exclaimed, his voice bubbling with excitement. As the door creaked open, a gust of cool air brushed against him, revealing the striking scene behind it. He stood proudly in a tattered suit, his face painted a ghostly green with jagged scars across his cheeks. Beside him, Melina embodied the essence of Frankenstein's bride, her hair teased into an unkempt frenzy, and her tattered and white gown seemed to flutter like a ghostly veil. Together, they made a captivating, spooky pair.

“There’s my little champion!” Alexi boomed, a wide grin lighting up his face as he knelt to get a closer look at Nikolai. “He’s growing bigger and stronger every day, just like his grandpa!”

“Wow, you two look fantastic,” you said.

“Thank you, so do you three, darling,” Melina replied. “I wasn’t sure about the hair being a bit much, but your father insisted it was the way to go. Now, hand me, my grandson.”

As Natasha gently placed Nikolai in Melina's arms, his expression shifted. When he saw her, his lower lip quivered, and a loud wail escaped him.

“I guess the hair was too much, Mama,” Yelena teased as she patted her mother on the shoulder and strolled past her into the warmth of the house.

“Wow, I’m impressed,” Natasha exclaimed, her eyes sparkling as she examined the candy bowl. “Full-size candy bars? The kids are going to remember this house.” 

Melina chuckled, shaking her head. “Let’s just say your father went overboard at the store. That’s the last time I let him handle the Halloween shopping.”

“But look at the stash!” Alexi declared, brandishing a handful of full-size Reese’s, Kit-Kats, Snickers, and even a king-size bag of M&M’s. “I love America! You’d never find treats like this back in Russia.”

You, Yelena, and Nat took turns answering the door. A parade of enchanting costumes continuously greeted you. Wizards, witches, ghosts, and even a flawlessly dressed Black Widow appeared—though she had no clue that Natasha Romanoff herself, had just handed her a Kit Kat bar.

After snapping some more entertaining family photos to frame and cherish, you bid farewell to Alexi and Melina and made your way to the Avengers' Compound for more Halloween hijinks. 

*^~^*

The compound's exterior was bathed in an eerie orange glow, with cobwebs covering the walls and jack-o'-lanterns lining the walkway. As the elevator doors slid open, you were met by an enveloping darkness—the common area was shrouded in shadows.

“Friday, what’s going on with the lights?” Natasha called out. She held Nikolai snugly against her chest, his head nestled against her shoulder. The silence that followed left her question hanging in the air.

“FRIDAY, vklyuchi chertov svet! (Turn on the fucking lights!) Yelena shouted, her patience wearing thin.

A playful smirk danced across your lips as you teased at your sister-in-law. “Oh, come on, she’s not Russian.”

Yelena shot back, her eyes narrowing, “She’s not even a she!”

Out of nowhere, Clint jumped out, dressed as a mummy. His voice booming, “Boo!” 

The three of you leaped a foot into the air at Clint’s sudden jumpscare. Little Nikolai burst into tears, his tiny hands clutching Nat’s costume desperately. Streams of glistening tears cascaded down his cheeks as he buried his face deep into Mama’s neck, seeking the comfort and safety of her warm embrace.

“What the hell, Clint?” you shouted in disbelief.

With a calm demeanor, Natasha passed little Nik into your arms, “Here, hold our son, Y/N. I have to kill my best friend.” 

Natasha fixed her piercing gaze on Clint, a look she typically reserved for her enemies. “Come here,” she said, her voice low and determined.

“Come on, Nat. It was just a bit of Halloween fun.” Clint protested, inching backward with a sheepish grin.

Yelena stepped forward beside her sister. “You’re going to regret I didn't kill you the first time, Barton.”

“Uh-oh,” Clint muttered, the realization dawning on him.

Suddenly, the room burst into brilliant light, illuminating the rest of the team. Everyone's eyes were glued to Natasha and Yelena as they sprinted after Clint, who was darting around the furniture in a desperate dance of evasion.

“Why are two Victorian ladies chasing Clint?” Tony asked, raising an eyebrow in confusion. Dressed in a sleek, high-tech vampire costume.

“You’ve gotta be kidding me, Mr. Stark?” Peter exclaimed, his eyes wide with disbelief as he fiddled with the bow and arrow on his Kate Bishop costume. “Those are the Sanderson sisters from Hocus Pocus.”

“Ooooh… right, I don’t know what that is,” Tony admitted with a sheepish grin, his vampire fangs showing.

“It's a Halloween cult classic from '93!" Kate added as she fumbled to peel off the Spider-Man mask that clung stubbornly to her face. "Seriously, Peter, how on earth do you breathe in that thing?”

“Yeah, well, I was a bit preoccupied with taking over Stark Industries and having sex to catch up on movies,” Tony shot back.

“Ladies!” Steve suddenly shouted, his commanding voice cutting through the chaos. Natasha and Yelena halted as Clint dove behind the super soldier dressed as a patriotic zombie.

Meanwhile, Wanda approached you with a warm smile. The redhead looked fantastic dressed as Lucille Ball. She wrapped her arms around you and gently rubbed small circles on Nik’s back, soothing him as his tears slowly faded. He reached out for the Scarlet Witch, tiny fingers grasping at her.

“You are amazing!” you cheered as Wanda tenderly embraced your son.

Wanda smiled, a twinkle in her eye. “Lots of practice,” she replied, her voice soft and reassuring. 

*^~^*

Colorful cocktails flowed freely, with standout creations like the "Avengers' Punch," a fruity concoction brimming with berries and citrus, and the bold "Hulk's Smash," a vivid green drink that packed a punch. 

The buffet table was a feast for the eyes, adorned with creatively named dishes courtesy of Pepper. Guests indulged in "Iron Man" sliders—juicy mini-burgers topped with zesty sauces—and "Super Soldier" salads, artfully arranged with fresh greens, colorful veggies, and a rainbow of dressings. To satisfy every sweet tooth, the selection of "Gamma-Sized" desserts included towering cupcakes and decadent orange and black sugar cookies.

Cradling Nikolai in your arms, you couldn't help but smile as you watched Thor energetically bob for apples. Each time he emerged from the bucket, his face gleaming with water, an apple clenched between his teeth, Nik erupted into giggles. 

“Nikolai Odison!” Thor exclaimed, his voice booming with warmth as he wiped the drops of water from his face. With a playful grin, he scooped your son into his strong arms; Thor chuckled as he looked down at the little boy. “How’s my little namesake? Not giving your mommies a tough time, are you?” he asked. 

“He's growing so fast,” you admitted, a mix of excitement and disbelief in your voice. “We think he might start crawling any day now.”

“Once that little guy is mobile, you two are done for,” Sam teased, adjusting his Sherlock Holmes cap with a knowing smirk.

“I know, right?” Natasha sighed, a playful grin on her face. “That’s why all of you will take turns babysitting in the future. 

“Anytime, you two,” Bucky said with a playful grin, effortlessly spinning the bowler hat from his Watson costume around his finger like a basketball, its brim catching the light with each smooth rotation.

“Excuse me?” Tony interjected with an exaggerated hand raise. “Hi! I don’t babysit. I’ve got my own little one to keep alive,” he said, gesturing to Morgan.

“Fair point,” Natasha replied in mock seriousness. “But then I guess we should fill Pepper in about some of your party boy dalliances.”

“Ha! She’s fully aware,” Tony shot back, a cheeky grin on his face. “Who do you think had their clothes dry cleaned and called a car for them the next morning?”

“Even for Mardi Gras ’96?” Natasha asked, arching an eyebrow playfully.

“You wouldn’t dare,” Tony said, leaning in as if bracing for the punchline.

“Try me,” Natasha replied, her expression unyielding.

After a moment of silence, Tony relented. “So, what bedtime stories does he like?” 

“Goodnight Moon is reigning supreme right now,” Natasha said, smirking as she lightly tapped Tony’s cheek in appreciation.

*^~^*

As Yelena finished sampling a colorful assortment of candy from Morgan’s overflowing Halloween loot bag, the vibrant wrappers crinkling in her hands, you could sense it was time to head home. Nikolai let out a tiny, adorable yawn, nuzzling his head into the comforting curve of your shoulder.

Fortunately, you had the foresight to pack his cozy pajamas, so you gently changed him, the soft fabric a perfect embrace for his sleepy frame. After completing the task, you exchanged quiet goodbyes with everyone. By the time you and Natasha dropped Yelena off at home, little Nik had already drifted into the sweet world of dreams, his soft breaths a lullaby to the peaceful night.

Once back home, you and Natasha took extra care as you cradled your baby boy. Together, you placed him carefully into his crib, ensuring he was nestled snugly beneath his favorite blanket. With meticulous silence, you both tiptoed out of his room, the faint glow of the nightlight casting a warm, soothing light as you closed the door softly behind you.

You both removed your costumes, the vibrant colors replaced by cozy pajamas as you settled down for the night.

“So, what do you think of Nikolai’s first Halloween?” Natasha asked, snuggling up next to you in bed.

“It was magical,” you replied, a contented smile spreading across your face. 

“I agree,” Natasha nodded eagerly. “Those photos will be the cutest addition to his baby book.”

With a playful sigh, you added, “The only thing I regretted was not bringing any candy home.” 

A teasing grin played on Natasha’s lips. “Oh, you mean for that secret stash hidden in the lettuce crisper?”

You smirked back at her, feigning innocence. “I have no idea what you’re talking about!”

Nat raised an eyebrow. “So, you’re not interested in any of this chocolate I brought home?” She held up a tempting selection: a Hershey Bar, a pack of Reese’s, a bag of M&M’s, and a Kit Kat, all glistening with sugary allure from beside the bed.

Your eyes sparkled with excitement at the sight of the treats. “Oh, I never said that!” you replied, a grin on your face.

“Thought so,” Natasha teased, leaning in closer and pressing a soft kiss against your lips. “Happy Halloween, Y/N.”

“Happy Halloween, Nat,” you returned, a warmth blooming in your chest as you savored the family moment—and the candy.

[s1aywalker]

꒰ა ♱ ໒꒱ straight to video. ꨄ

↷ ✩ —— video store clerk sam monroe headcanons. (nsfw 18+)

warnings: smutty smutty smutty. minors do not interact or else i'll collect your kneecaps. porn (duh), masturbation.

𝜗𝜚˚⋆ sam monroe who lingers and hangs back a little too long in the furthest section of the video store every time he has to put away the lazily disinfected x-rated returns back into their designated slots.

𝜗𝜚˚⋆ sam monroe who makes a bad habit out of scoping out the newest releases when he unboxes them before they hit the shelves. it's not usually anything super crazy— the same old titles with "busty" and "hot" in big bold letters. most of the covers are on the classier end, displaying lingerie clad women tantalizing the potential renter with what lies within. but some of them... some of them lacked any subtly at all.

𝜗𝜚˚⋆ sam monroe who has to take a sneak peek at all the dirtier titles that occasionally came through their doors. the ones marketed as more "hardcore" that don't bother teasing or leaving the viewer wondering— instead showing blondes with fake tits on the cover, one or two or more cocks shoved into their mouths, full cunts on display and leaving absolutely nothing to the imagination before even hitting play.

𝜗𝜚˚⋆ sam monroe who doesn't always bother checking the most interesting ones out. they don't even make it out of the fucking store, let alone into the privacy of his own bedroom. he's instead taking his pick and inquisitiveness into the back room at the end of his shift when he should solely be focusing on putting a rewind on the stack of returns. the ones that are being dragged along under his arm with the selected gangbang in brand new condition that he gets to test run first.

𝜗𝜚˚⋆ sam monroe who puts his curiosity before his nonexistent work ethic because he's known to be impatient, and immediately feeds the tape into the mouth of an older model vcr that brings the film to life with a mechanical whirr.

𝜗𝜚˚⋆ sam monroe whose impatience in question forces him to press fast forward as he sits on the shitty couch with stained cushions from spilled lunches and dinners. forwarding and forwarding until he finds a scene that makes his whole body react and his dick twitch, and he knows he has to make this quick.

𝜗𝜚˚⋆ sam monroe who lets the explicit sounds of pornographic moans and skin against skin fill the space of the small room, and he's about to add to the harmony of it. his fingers are quickly undoing the buckle of his studded belt and letting it fall open just as the film plays at a normal pace, and he can't reach his hand into the confines of those baggy hot topic bought tripp pants fast enough.

𝜗𝜚˚⋆ sam monroe who works his wrist at a deliberate and desperate pace that might've left burn marks if he weren't a seasoned, jerking off professional. he's trying to match the rhythm of the video playing out before him of a stretched cunt getting repeatedly fucked and hammered into, while her stuffed throat can't make any sound other than lewd gurgles. he doesn't even know what this chick really looks like, he didn't catch enough of the beginning. but he also doesn't fucking care what she looks like. his eyes are too busy glued elsewhere and he refuses to let them screw shut.

𝜗𝜚˚⋆ sam monroe whose teeth are clicking against the labret pierced through his lower lip as he sucks in harsh breaths in between groans, and bites at the skin while his chest heaves with whimpers. "c'mon please, please, please—" he's not sure what exactly he's begging for... the sweet release, he supposes. every tug and stroke from his fist brought him closer and closer and—

𝜗𝜚˚⋆ sam monroe who doesn't waste much time after cum coats his hand. the mess is lazily wiped on his shirt after he shoved his cock back into his boxers and it's like nothing happened at all. he reaches to rewind the tape back to the beginning until it clicks and the machine spits it back out, and it's shoved back into the pristine sleeve to be put aside before he moves on to the stack of returns.

[ateez-himari]

SUCHWITA; SPECIAL EPISODE

Artists close to Himari choose to promote 'Golden Hour : Part 2' in their own ways

November 20, 2024 (6:22PM)

On November 19th an unannounced upload appeared on the BANGTANTV channel, and netizens were shocked to see that it was an episode of Suchwita, originally hosted by Suga, featuring J-Hope and ATEEZ member Himari. The vocalist's group recently released their mini album 'Golden Hour : Part 2' so while it came as no surprise to see her on multiple shows such as; 'Nothing Much Prepared', 'Young K's K Survival Story' 'Jaefriends', and even filming informal videos with mentor Taemin or K-Pop Legend G-Dragon, that show was not meant to see further uploads until the end of his military service.

It was actually revealed at the beginning that J-Hope asked for his bandmate's permission once he was told about the comeback's potential dates and went straight to the recording set the day after his discharge. According to the rapper it was important for him to promote the new album as it marks the first release as head producer for the group, and seeing as he watched the members grow up alongside her he wished to support their well deserved success.

The two spent time playfully arguing about the best way to grill the meat staff members had gotten for them, catching up on everything missed during their time apart, singing each other's songs on the karaoke machine and overall showing off their close bond. Compared to more in-depth conversations with other idols that have been uploaded for the group's promotion period, not much was discussed in regards to the track 'Enough' - which was said to be personal to the vocalist - as to make their first piece of content together in a long time relaxing for both.

The group as a whole seemed to have surprises up their sleeves for their unofficial little sister as Taehyung stepped out from the camera setup to greet the young woman, who took several seconds to process what was happening. The younger idol instantly jumped in the man's arms after realizing that he was indeed standing in front of them and as expected from ATEEZ's soft hearted maknae, joyful tears ensued - which encouraged her senior's own waterworks.

Footage filmed the following day was incorporated into the video as it contained a heart melting reunion between the Min siblings, and while the details of how many times they have seen each other since the start of his service is unknown - it seems as though the distance was weighing heavy on the vocalist. The fortune teller in ATEEZ's anniversary video revealed that due to her lonely childhood, Himari had formed such strong attachments to her siblings that being away from them for long stretches of time is rather challenging - so with Hanzo constantly being away from Korea she must have had quite a hard time.

Jimin and Namjoon joined them later that day with bags of gifts for the artist along with her bandmates, which visibly amused the young woman's manager who unfortunately had to find a way to carry them back to the car. While the reunion between the maknaes was not filmed, both told their respective fanbases that they have seen each other prior to the start of promotions - and as for the eldest, Himari has gone to see him regularly during his own comeback. Atiny can rest assured that their maknae is not only being cared for and loved unconditionally by her bandmates, but also the many idols that have taken to her soft personality.

Please continue to stream 'Golden Hour : Part 2' on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, Stationhead and vote on the various platforms available. Let's give ATEEZ the wins that they deserve!

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[ayekittyk4t]

pollinate

pairing: plug eren x afab reader

desc: you always make decision with eren that are on a whim. whether it’s him taking you to get a tattoo or him filming you, it’s never a normal routine.

content warning: established relationship, tattoos, needles, petnames ( princess, baby, etc…), a little dry humping, filming, oral sex (male receiving), hair pulling, spit, one slap on da face, lmk if i’m missing any lol

an: y’all this a lil rusty but it’s okay i guess. i had to oil up this rusty ol machine, but i hope y’all enjoy. more plug eren and reader to come. even tho this really didn’t have anything to do with him being a plug. it’s just part of the series/ collections idk. take it as you will.

sometimes, you think about some decisions you’ve made and wonder how stupid they were. you’d lay there, dealing with the consequences of your actions and repeating what may have been the alternative route. all the what if’s that would’ve been your reality. however, now that you’ve made that decision, all you could do was think about such things. and at this very moment in time, you’re laying with a very permanent decision.

eren had said you’re a baby for whining. but he had plenty of tattoos in various places, so his word didn’t matter to you. you do suppose that this was your decision after all, so you sit with the pain with your eyes screwed shut. that is what you were repeating in your head as you fought through the last few minutes of your tattoo session.

a lotus flower. eren had once said you were his lotus flower. you had no idea what if meant, but it had stuck with you. he said that you were a beautiful lotus flower on a bright green lily pad, sitting on calm water. he’d say this to you once in a while. and on whim, you decided to get it tattooed on you tonight. right on your sternum.

what a bad decision, because you were in a lot a fucking pain.

“awe, my princess is a little weak.” eren teased, petting your head to calm you down. you opened your eyes, squinting from the bright tattoo studio lights and looked at him with annoyance. from where you were laying and where he was behind you, his big smile almost looked like a frown. you know eren all too well though, he’d never frown in your pain. more so smile in a peculiar pleasure.

the constant puncturing of the small needles in your skin had been a pain. along with the buzzing of the tattoo gun. your head began to throb, so you shut your eyes. eren noticed, seeing how your jaw clenched and the way you swallowed hard. and despite finding a freakish pleasure in your pain, his heart tinged with pain of his own. with that, he moved his fingers to your temples and started messaging them. instantly, you felt calm.

“you’ll be fine, (y/n).” he says low and smoothly.

“yea, because you done.” mikasa said excitedly as she turned off the machine.

you opened your eyes to be directly looking into erens. he smiled big, his canines peeking through. his hands then fall to the side and you’re already missing his touch.

the table you’ve now laid on for god knows how long begins to fuel your discomfort. you wiggle around a bit, lifting you hips to stretch. mikasa let’s you know to stay put as she cleans you up and applies the second skin to avoid any infections.

“you’re all done.” she exclaims with a big smile as she clasps her hands together in excitement.

upon those words, you sit up, zipping your sweater up just enough to leave some room to look at the lotus in the mirror. feeling somewhat lightheaded, you stumble a bit as you hop off the table. eren grabs a hold of your arm, saving you from a fall and hold you close to him. looking up at him, you smile as he leads you to the mirror.

standing in front of the mirror, you inspect the permanent flower on your body. mikasa captured you vision well, and you were so happy about it.

“you look beautiful, baby.” eren says, standing behind you. you smile to him in approval through the reflection of the mirror.

-

the candlelight flickered, soothing your heavy eyes to shut and fall to sleep. you’re tired, using eren chest as a pillow. you listened to his heartbeat and inhaled his scent. it soothed you even more.

then you do it again, inhaling louder. your stomach caves in from how deep you took in erens scent. holding your breath for a bit, you breathe out with a low hum.

“what are you doing?” he chuckles, looking down at where your head rested.

you shoot up, lifting yourself from your comfort, “i’m addicted to the way you smell.”

“you’re fucking insane.”

rolling your eyes, you sit up. unzipping your sweater to take a look at the new ink on your skin. you couldn’t stop looking at it. admiring it. showing it off every few minutes. you felt tough. this pain was nothing, you thought. you could get a ton of tattoos now.

“will you take a picture for me?” you say suddenly, looking at him with doe like eyes. maybe part of you knew eren wouldn’t want to due to the placement of the tattoo. but you’d thought it’d be different since you’ve been dating for a while, and he always took pictures of you.

he was your personal photographer after all.

eren squints his eyes at you, his tongue poking at his cheek, “why?”

“because i want to post it.”

“for who?”

your mouth drops, and you match his judging gaze, “for all the other men who want me besides you.” the attitude is apparent in your tone as you rolled your eyes dramatically.

“watch your tone.” he’s no longer squinting his eyes, his brows are now furrowed and he spoke with a slight irritation in his voice.

“for me. who else?” you poke his forehead, and eren shoos you hand away.

you catch onto his attitude, realizing he’s not playing around anymore. it wasn’t a joke to him. he was somewhat a bit upset at you. this always happened. eren is short tempered, but you’re patient for him. all you could roll your eyes, again, and move on with your night.

“fine,” you sit up, grabbing your phone off the side table by your bed. “i’ll take if myself-”

just as you were about to get off your bed, eren wraps his arms around you and pulls you onto him.

“hey,” you scramble a bit and get up, acting as if this wasn’t a normal occurrence with eren. but it was.

“don’t worry about it, baby. i’ll take them for you.” he grabs a hold to your phone in your hand, his other hand gripping to your waist and squeezing.

you frown at him, “i’m sorry. c’mon, let me take those picture for you.” he’s sitting up, resting his back again the headboard. you squeeze your thighs around him, trying not to tip over.

“you sure?”

“yes.” he said lowly, his eyes shifting from yours to your body. your cheeks heat up once he looks at you. no matter how long you’ve been with eren, you never stop to get nervous around him.

you feel his hands inch up and down, thumbs pressing circles into your stomach. he looks back into your eyes, and you blink like the flustered girl you were. he begins to unzip your sweater, covering you just enough so your chest wasn’t showing. eren pushes the sweater a little off your shoulders and you shift you hips a bit. you feel him harden below you.

with the phone still in hand, eren unlocks your phone to take a photo.

you straighten up, arch your back and lift your hips a little. click. he take the photo. resting back down into erens lap, you whimper as his hard on makes contact with your clit. he groans quietly, lifting his hips to hit that spot again.

“no, one more picture. i want a a lot to choose from.” your placing your hands on his stomach, pushing him into the bed and leaning forward. click.

“smile.” he laughs a little, watching you blush once again and snaps more pictures.

“take nice ones, eren.”

“i am, baby.” he shifts your phone to your face and you hear your phone ding, letting you know your being recorded.

“hey!” you whine, pushing the phone, “stop playing.”

“i’m getting impatient, princess.” he groans, eyes shifting to his hard cock. “you keep teasing me.”

erens tone gets a bit whiny. though, you should be slightly annoyed, you fun pleasure in this. the way his gaze on you is now hungry, but you’re in control. and the way he groans when you rub yourself on him and he’s thrusting up for more.

you’re stomach bubbled in anticipation. you wanted to keep going for your own pleasure, but something about seeing eren whine and beg for it excited you. you felt your cunt throb. this would be new.

dropping the sweater off your shoulders, you expose your tits to him, nipples hardening from the cool breeze of the night. he reaches out to squeeze your tit, grab his hand and place it back to your hip. the phone still in his hand recording.

“c’mon, princess. let me touch you.” he whines, lips quivering.

you smile, not saying a word but instead rocking your hips against eren. dragging your clothed cunt against his cock foward feverishly, and moving back slowly. you continue this for a while, fast then slow. teasing eren and yourself. letting out soft whimpers while doing so.

then, you stop. you lift your lips away from eren and all his pleasure is gone. he thrust his hips in the air trying to find satisfaction in that. but it’s useless.

looking at eren, you see he’s holding the phone to the sealing. reaching out, you adjust it just enough so you’d be in the view. you lower yourself on the bed, hooking your dainty fingers on the waist band of his pajama pants and pulling them down. as your free his cock, he groans as it slaps against his stomach. you shove two fingers in your mouth, letting spit drip down them to moisten his length. thick and long, his tip leaking precum. you spread your spit around the tip, wrapping your hands around him and stroking. with your free hand you, play with his balls.

“fuckin-”

eren is cut off as he feels your wet tongue drag along the length of his cock. you swirl your tongue on the tip before wrapping your plump lips around it, then he feels the warmth of you mouth take the entirety of his cock. slowly, teasingly, he feels you inch down to the base. your nose shoved up against him. you look at him and hallow your cheeks.

he looks down at you, and moans lewdly. teeth grinding, sucking in deep breaths, brows furrowed and cheeks blushing. the grip on your phone he has as tight, the white of his knuckles peeped through.

he huffed and frowned. your hair was covering your perfect face. with his free hand, he moved the hair out of your face, wrapping his hands enough to tug you back a bit. you let his cock slip out of your mouth, a sting of saliva connected you to him drips down your chin.

“don’t drop the goddamn phone.” you spat out, more salivia slipping past your mouth. you lick your lips and swallow hard.

god, you’re so fuckin’ messy.

“never, baby.” he rasps, tugging on your hair once again. you moan at that. it hurt so good that you felt slick drip from your cunt.

at that, you spit again on him, taking him back in your mouth. he hits the back of your throat and it stings, but it brings you bliss. shutting your eyes, you bob your head against him, sucking hard once you get to his tip. your fast, no longer teasing him. you had a goal and that was for him to spill inside you.

your hands moved at the same speed as your mouth. filled with your spit and his own precum, the slick just added to his pleasure. eren loved your messiness when you sucked his cock.

“so fucking good, princess.” eren says through his teeth.

you look at him, his hair dishealved and almost out of its tight little bun. he’s so close. his chest is rising and falling, and his breath is shaky. you only speed up noticing this, looking him in the eyes. taking him in fast, hallowing your cheeks harder and adding more pressure on tongue as you reach his cockhead.

“ah fuck-, fuck baby.” he thrusting his hips into you mouth, his cock hitting the back of your throat. you gag, but inhale deeply through your nose and continue to reach your goal.

and in seconds a thick, warmth fills your mouth. eren groans loudly thrusting his hips so you get every last drop of his cum in your mouth. that salty, thick liquid coats your mouth. you release his cock from your mouth, pursing your lips together and swallowing hard. he’s a mess, chest rising and falling. you and him are warn down, but you take it into you hands to clean him up.

you lick your spit off the length of his cock and take his tip in your mouth on last time. you suck hard, releasing it with a pop. eren looks at you with a lust filled gaze.

“let me see.” he’s referring to his cum. he wanted you to take it all. eren releases his hand from your hair and grips onto your chin. he squeezes your cheeks and moves the phone to record the inside of your mouth. you stick your tongue out to prove you swallowed it all.

“good fuckin’ girl.” he gives you a small smack on your cheek in approval.

“now show the camera your pretty little tattoo.”

you listen quickly, sitting up above eren. the bed squeaks from your quick movements. you feel the slick between your legs drip down your thighs. eren moved the camera back onto your chest, he’s running a hand up to your chest and squeezes your tit. you didn’t care if he was touching you now. his touch ignited something in you. it always did. either way, you broke him down just a bit. at least for today.

“that’s my slutty princess.”

[en-rev]

Enhypen x fem 8th member reader

Summary: En o'Clock ep 68, except you’re the 8th member of ENHYPEN

Note: Episode had to be changed slightly for the story. You are younger than Jungwon but older than Niki. You were also a part of Sunoo, Jay, and Jungwon’s group for the previous episode. 

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After completing the tasks that the diary had set out for your group, you were carrying  a box of snacks as you walked in Sunoo’s tracks. All of you were checking out the building in awe as it seemed like a fun and luxurious place to stay for filming. 

Setting down the box you check out the tub by the window in what seems to be the entertainment area, “Wow, it's beautiful here” you talk to yourself as you gaze out the window. Hearing Jungwon run up the stairs, you turn and watch Sunoo as he mentions he also wants to see what's upstairs. Following Jay as he skips up the steps, your eyes widen as you see an air hockey table. “Oh my god… One of you needs to play against me in air hockey.” you let out quickly as you’re already searching for the puck. Looking up to see your members looking at the vending machine in the room you hover over them to see what they’re trying to win. “Do you think it’ll work right?”... “No, probably not”...  Sunoo and Jungwon converse before being immediately disappointed seeing that the snack they tried to win was nowhere close to being grabbed by the claw. You almost giggle at how quickly they walk away from the machine. 

As you all gather around the next machine, you begin to hype up Jay as you realize what it is. He jumps up and down as he prepares to throw a punch at the game. Seeing him finally throw the punch your mouth immediately drops… yeah he was strong but that seemed a little intense… you mentally make note to not really piss him off. “Woah, a 930! That's cool” Sunoo and Jungwon say as they begin to walk towards another section of the place. “I bet the other’s are gonna be all over that machine” you say as you follow behind Jay again. Seeing nothing but workout equipment you immediately head up to see what's on the third floor. Peering into the rooms and seeing the beds you smile as you skip down a little to find your own room. Being the only female member definitely had its perks. Looking in you also saw your own bathroom, you punched the air in excitement as you looked at the luxurious looking bathroom. Sunoo walks into your room, also wanting to check out what you were being given, “Wow, you’re too lucky” he practically pouts at how good your room is, knowing that you don’t have to share. “Should’ve known you would get the best.” Jay sighs in defeat as Jungwon laughs at him in amusement. 

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Settling down again as we wait for the others to arrive, you slowly travel around the room to check out what's there again while dancing to yourself. Jungwon attempts to call the other members to show them the house they are staying in but they dont answer. “Oh, well…” he stretches. Pouting at his disappointment I point out something outside, “Ohhh! Look there's a bunch of stuff outside” you say as you run out the door with Jungwon quickly following. He smiles brightly as he grabs a water gun, looking at all the other things there are outside. “Lets fill these '' he says as he's already crouching by the pool, filling up the toy. You grab another one and begin to fill it up, smiling at the thought of messing with your members later. Sunoo and Jay come to check out what we're doing before heading to the lawn area to take pictures. “Hey, do you think I could stay on top of them without falling?” you ask with a large smile, pointing at the pile of floaties he was stacking together. He laughs loudly and stands, “You would not be able to” he practically wheezes at the thought of you trying. As Jay photographs Sunoo in the background shaking your head with confidence, “Watch this” you say as you practically fall onto the floaties he piled up. Not expecting one of your legs to miss almost completely, your right leg is in the water up to your mid thigh, your jeans feeling scratchy against your skin. Letting out a scream as you grip into the floaties and raise your leg out of the water, trying to avoid getting even more wet. “My mic! Jungwon please…. Get me up!” you shout in panic as you struggle to stay afloat on the water floaties. You hear Jay's loud laugh as he hunches over and takes pictures of you, half soaked struggling to stay afloat on floaties that are practically submerged in the water. Sunoo’s hand flies to his mouth as he laughs at the scene before him and Jungwon is on the cement laughing at your struggle. 

They laugh more before they try to help you out of the water, Jay grabs onto the back of your jeans and Jungwon is holding onto your arm as they try to lift you. Sunoo laughs as he records the scene to show the others later. “Yah, hold still or else we’ll drop you” he explains as he attempts to pull you up with one arm, Jungwon is still laughing at you as he pulls the floaties closer to the edge. Just as Jay has you in the air by your jeans, he struggles as he attempts to pull you back to land…. But your jeans begin to slip a little. Editors edit an emoji over you as a sliver of your underwear shows, and it almost looks like Jay is giving you a wedgie. “JAY!!!” you scream as you go to pull at your jeans, causing you both to yell as he loses his grip and you're submerged in water, almost dragging him down with you. The three boys laugh as you submerge quickly with a gasp before making your way to climb out of the water. Standing up everyone can clearly see the mic under your shirt, and how it definitely is ruined at this point. Though, knowing you, those things would inevitably happen. Seeing them almost red from laughing, you run towards them while shaking your body as an attempt to get them wet. You all laugh before you grab under your shirt to remove the mic and show it to them while pouting, “I should’ve known it was a bad idea” you sign out as they enjoyed how the events played out. “I’ll go get changed” you state before grabbing something to dry yourself with and head up to change into some swimwear. 

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After you had changed you were chilling in your room while scrolling through your phone for a bit. You heard the others messing around outside before they also came in to change. You were braiding your hair as you heard the boys karaoking downstairs. Chuckling, you finish braiding your hair before you rush downstairs in your swimming clothes which are similar to Sunoo’s except your top is a dark blue color. Rushing downstairs you go to join singing but stop in your tracks as you see that the rest of your members have arrived. You immediately almost burst out laughing seeing how half asleep they are. Jungwon in excitement begins to give the others a tour of the place as you stay downstairs and converse with Sunoo, finding out that he was pushed into the pool earlier by Jay and laughing at how he tells the story to you. 

Once everyone gathers outside, you’re immediately in the pool attempting to do a handstand underwater as Jay is living his aerobic swimmer fantasies. Sunoo is in the water and immediately begins to mess with Jay as he swims underwater. They play as you swim back and forth in the pool, you’ve always found the water to be relaxing. Deciding to lay on a floatie you peacefully lay there as you drift around calmly in the water. You hear Heeseung playing basketball, Jungwon, Jay, and Sunoo playing and splashing each other, pushing each other into the water. After living with all of the guys for so long, it's become easy to block their loud yells out, and you begin to drift into a light sleep as you lay your head onto the floatie. 

Hearing a bunch of splashing brings you out of your sleep and you shoot up as you see them all jumping in, causing your floatie to almost tip over. Raising your head up you look and see everyone is in the pool and your eyes widen. When did everyone decide to get in? Shrugging slightly you continue to float on your floatie as you watch niki do flips into the pool, and enjoy seeing everyone having a good time. Flipping off of your floatie you swim underwater before approaching Jake from underneath. Jumping out of the water right in front of him you attempt to scare him, startling him as he tries to back away from your sudden appearance. Everyone laughs and he chuckles before splashing some water at you, before continuing to float around on the donut floatie. Swimming you approach Niki as you’ve barely interacted with him since he came and begin to splash him before running away, you both laugh as he tries to get revenge before getting on the shark floatie with you pushing him. 

Eventually, everyone begins to play together, everyone underwater as you all participate in a breath holding challenge. However as everyone goes face down into the water, you plug your nose and go under, but keep your eyes above to watch everyone. Seeing Sunoo begin to drift and grip the wall, you almost laugh before seeing Jay rise. Sunoo quickly rises after and laughs at how they’re the first ones to lose before they notice you. They immediately notice you with your eyes above the water and begin laughing. “Hey, isn’t that cheating?” Jay suspects as he looks to Sunoo for confirmation. He just laughs before Jake rises, from the water, disappointed that he wasn’t first place. Still holding your breath, with your mouth underwater as your eyes still watch everyone else, you manage to keep holding your breath. Honestly it wasn’t very hard… however an idea struck you. You and Sunoo were honestly like telepathically linked, and you gave him a mischievous look, one he recognized well. Sunoo smirks and begins to climb out of the pool,“Let’s go wash up.” He states quickly, and like the flash, all three of them were rushing inside with you deciding to give up the contest and run after them, forgetting that you didn’t actually have your own shower to use whenever you wanted. 

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As the other members in the pool celebrate holding their breath for a long time, their victory is short lived. “The other’s went inside to go wash up” Jungwons eyes widened, and Niki realized that his victory was in vain. He lets out a whine before plummeting into the water, pretending he was dead. Heeseung and Sunghoon laugh at his reaction, even though they were also disappointed that they would be showering last. Jungwon shakes his head at the camera, “It was Y/n’s idea huh?” he asks, raising his eyebrows. They quickly furrow when they tell him it was Sunoo, each of the other members in the pool’s eyes widened. “Oh no! She’s rubbing off on him” they exclaim, knowing that you were always playing some sort of shenanigans. Niki slaps the water and quickly jumps out of the pool, running into the house. The others in the water laugh, knowing he was probably going to go bother you for ruining his victory. 

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As you prepare your shower, the door to your personal room was locked. Gathering your pajamas and skincare before you get into the shower, you sing to yourself quietly before falling to the floor in fear as someone begins to pound on your door. All your items fly into the air as the door shakes, and you feel the vibrations on the floor. “Yah, you scared me!!!” You shout while trying to peek under the door to see who it is. “I was supposed to shower first, I won! But because of YOUR influence, I have to wait now!” Niki taps a foot angrily on the floor and you almost laugh out loud at how silly it looks from the sliver of space you can see under the door. You laughed, imagining what his face might look like right now and are practically wheezing. He always looked cute when he was angry. “I’ll let you use mine after I’m done!” you shout as you enter your bathroom. 

Unknown to you, Niki stands at your door defeated. He slumps over, and his head hits your door and he stands there for a while before he runs suddenly. Now it was time for Sunoo to be bothered as he showered. 

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This one is a lot shorter and probably less interesting than my last post but I tried to write something. I also didn’t proofread, so sorry if there are any mistakes. Also I’m trying to get better at making my posts better looking. If you have any suggestions on something I should write, let me know and I'll see what I can do! :)

[mlmxreader]

Not a Clue | Ian Malcolm x gn!reader

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↳ ❝ What do you think of 98. “I need to snuggle.” “Why?” “Cold.” ? ❞

: ̗̀➛ Malcolm goes to see his partner whilst they're at work, even if it's just for a bit of a chat.

trigger warnings: ̗̀➛ swearing, arachnids, snakes (specifically my babies <3)

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spotlight fundraiser : ̗̀➛ Help Dr Bashar to evacuate his family from Gaza

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You stretched as you read through the previous day's log; everything had been fed, except for the scorpions. You rolled your eyes, of course no one fed them - it was always down to you to make sure that they were kept properly, as everyone else was too scared to bother.

The perk of being the only ecologist in your team who actually knew the key signs of aggression and defensive behaviour to look for; the perk of being the only one in your team who actually liked arachnids.

You nodded to yourself, deciding that they should be fed first, and started to make your way over to where the crickets, locusts, mealworms, waxworms, earthworms, snails, and both kinds of roaches were kept - but you stopped when you heard the door open, and you raised a brow.

The familiar scent of recently cleaned leather bit you in the nose, and you relaxed immediately.

"Doctor Malcolm," you hummed. "What do I owe the pleasure?"

Ian shrugged as he leaned against the table and rubbed his hands together; his knuckles were red and raw from the cold, and his fingers weren't as quick as they should have been. "It's, uh, it's always warm in here, isn't it? How'd you manage?"

You grabbed the tank of locusts and brought it to the table. "Plents of heat mats, UVB bulbs, and never opening the window. How else?"

He laughed softly, rubbing the back of his neck. "Y'know, all these, uh, creepy crawlies - you'd think that InGen would've hired you."

You scoffed as you glared at him and grabbed a pair of rubber tipped tongs. "You really think, after everything, that they give a single solitary fuck about ecology? When they practically destroyed several ecosystems?"

Ian hummed, watching with only slight discomfort as you grabbed a locust and opened one of the scorpion tanks; it was a big bugger. At least the length of his hand from the tip of his middle finger, with thick armoured pincers and a prominent, hairy, stinger; a blueish hue, the arachnid looked like something from a shitty monster film.

He cringed as he watched it grab the locust between two giant claws, and smash its venomous stinger right into the middle, nearly splitting the thing in half.

"You actually like these things?"

You grinned as you closed the tank and locked it, watching with fascination at it began to munch on its prey. "I think they're wonderful, Malcolm, you know that... saying that, actually, did you feed ours?"

He shook his head as he threw his hands up. "Oh no! I, uh, I thought we agreed, baby, that uh, you could have them - but you feed them."

You rolled your eyes fondly at him. "They're not that bad."

"One of them nearly took my finger off," he pointed out. "I've gone toe to toe with dinosaurs, I don't need an... a, uh, eight legged snipping machine to chase me."

You wanted to laugh as you brought out the next locust and dropped it into the second tank; Ian didn't mind that one. It was smaller, a uniform shiny black colour with a bit of a brown shine, and a yellowish stinger. It still looked like some sort of monster, though.

"Y'know, Malcolm, Grant came to see me the other day," you explained, "he didn't mind the scorps - he actually helped me."

Ian grimaced slightly; he liked and respected Grant, even considered him a friend, but that wouldn't change his mind. "That won't work on me, you know that."

"So did Sattler," you hummed, locking the second tank and opening the third.

The smallest of the three, it was almost impossible to see with the naked eye; dark brown amongst darker substrate, it was so small that you had to crush the locust's mouth parts before serving it to the little thing. It was, in a way, cute with its small pincers and even smaller stinger.

"Please tell me you're finished," he hummed, and once you had put the tanks and live food back, you nodded. "Did you, uh, did you speak to Sattler recently?"

You nodded as you dusted your hands off and opened one the other tanks; inside it sat a large snake, which hissed in protest for a moment before pressing its mouth to your hand.

It stopped hissing, and laid its head on your thumb; it was an impressive size, with dark brown and black scales alongside yellow and orange markings. It looked perpetually as if it was pissed off. Just looking at its light brown head and black tongue, Ian could see that it was longer than he was tall.

"Yeah," you hummed, gently coaxing the snake out and letting it sit around your shoulders. "Remember? She called me about an interview or something she was doing."

"Oh, right!" He nodded, snapping his fingers. "I, uh, I forgot about that."

You gently placed the snake on the table and started to check over its body; mumbling to yourself about its eyes being clear and none of its scales being damaged. "Why?"

Ian rubbed the back of his neck, waiting for you to put the animal back before he dared to sneak up behind you, his hands resting on your stomach as he pulled your back to his chest. "Well, uh, a little birdie came and told me that someone told the press about us."

You turned around, your hands resting on the lapels of his jacket as you tilted your head to the side. "That may have been me."

"Uh-huh... and what did you say?"

"Nothing much, to be honest," you admitted with a shrug. "Sattler called me and said that people had been asking why you were here so often and what my opinions on InGen were, so I told her."

He nodded slowly. "So you didn't tell about us liv-"

"No," you shook your head. "We agreed. The fact can be public, but not the detail... except the jacket, I told her about you buying me that fancy leather jacket."

Ian nodded back at you for a moment before coaxing you to sit on the table, he stood between your legs and pressed his forehead to your shoulder. "I need to snuggle."

"Why?"

"Cold." He huffed out, practically trying to wrap himself around you.

With a quiet laugh, you pushed him away, daring to kiss his nose. "I have work to be done - unless you have the population density chart of javanimetrus cyaneus in Borneo compared to the Philippines and Indonesia and how it's changed since last year?"

Ian had no fucking clue what any of that meant, so he just smiled. Chaos theory was easy for him, mathematics in general was easy for him - but practical stuff like using those funny little grids and taking samples and collecting specimens to study their relationship to the environment?

He didn't have a clue.

But just as you could listen to him waffle on about his latest theory or whatever, he could listen to you waffle on about how the population of animals like scorpions, spiders, snakes and roaches could determine how healthy a local environment was.

He still didn't know what the fuck a biome was, even though you had explained it thousands of times.