#Talent Marketplaces
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Talent Marketplaces- FlexC Flexc is a Talent Marketplace that will help employers find the best candidates by matching skills & experience with companies. This removes the hassle of finding your ideal candidate, saving you time and money.
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10 Game-Changing Freelance Platforms You Need to Know
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Are you maximizing your freelance potential? This blog explores 10 platforms like Upwork that are revolutionizing the gig economy. TrueFirms takes center stage by offering businesses unparalleled transparency in choosing service providers. From Workana\u2019s affordability to Toptal\u2019s elite talent, find out which platform aligns with your goals. TrueFirms is especially invaluable for businesses aiming to make informed, strategic decisions when hiring freelance talent.
Read more:
Top 10 Freelance Platforms Like Upwork You Should Try Now
#Freelancing Tips#Hiring Freelancers#Business Solutions#Online Talent Marketplace#Upwork Alternatives#Gig Economy
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In today’s fast-paced digital world, finding the best online selling marketplace can be the key to expanding your business and reaching a global audience. With numerous platforms available, choosing the right one for your products or services is crucial for success. BSMe2e is proud to be a leading platform that provides the best online selling marketplace for entrepreneurs, small businesses, and individuals looking to grow their online presence.
Web 2.0: https://bsme2eonline.blogspot.com/2024/12/best-online-selling-marketplace-for-your-business.html
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Part 1 This is part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5
With the train ride now over, the sergeants ran, scouring the market for two familiar faces. Their footsteps in sync, crunching delicate mounds of white snow. Soap broke through the crowd first, then Gaz and Gary were right with him.
“Where the hell are they?” Gaz pants out, his breaths misting in the cold air.
“You said the marketplace,” Soap huffs.
“Yeah, I said the marketplace, but it's not like I know exactly where they went!” Gaz snaps back.
While the two sergeants bicker, Roach quietly breaks away, scanning the area until he spots the familiar figures they’d been hunting for. Price and Ghost stand outside a cigar shop, deep in conversation. The satisfied grin on Price's face tells Roach everything—he got what he was after.
“They’re over there!” Roach exclaims, snapping his partners out of their lovers' quarrel.
Gaz and Soap go silent, their eyes following Roach’s line of sight until they, too, spot their Lieutenant and Captain.
In a heartbeat, the three of them are sprinting toward their unsuspecting targets. Soap grins like a madman, practically buzzing with mischief, while Gaz shakes his head, both amused and slightly wary of what might unfold. Roach, meanwhile, is simply thrilled to be along for the ride.
They skid to a stop right in front of the two men, chests heaving as they catch their breath in the biting winter air.
“The hell is wrong with you lot?” Price’s voice cuts through, laced with a mix of annoyance and bemusement as he shifts his attention from Ghost to the winded sergeants.
Ghost, arms crossed, eyes them with quiet scrutiny. His winter coat does little to conceal his bulky frame, a silent reminder of his imposing presence as he stands beside Price.
Price and Ghost waited for an explanation, knowing well everytime those three got together, they were definitely up to no good.
Like how they put semi-permanent green dye in Ghost's shampoo for Halloween.
“We… we saw. A kid with your face,” Gaz manages, still catching his breath, pointing straight at Ghost.
Ghost raises a brow, baffled. A kid with his face? What the hell did that mean? Did they think he looked like a baby?
Soap huffs in mock disappointment, shooting a playful glare at Gaz. “Oi, I wanted to say it!”
Predictably, the two dive into another back-and-forth. Gaz isn’t one to shout, but Soap has a talent for riling anyone up.
Price lets their little show go on for only a moment before his stern voice cuts in, slicing through their bickering. “One of you properly explain, or you'll be walking back to base.”
Roach steps up, eager to clarify. “There’s a kid, probably about two, and she looks exactly like the Lt. Scowl, glare, and all!”
Price and Ghost pause, their expressions twisting as they both try—and fail—to imagine a little girl with Simon’s permanent scowl.
Price shudders, shaking the thought from his head. “That is not a face a kid should have.”
“That’s exactly what I said,” Gaz chimes in, nodding emphatically.
Ghost throws him an offended look, his usually hardened eyes showing a glimmer of hurt. “What’s that supposed to mean?”
“Nothing!” they all exclaim in unison, even Price, who quickly averts his gaze as Ghost’s glare narrows on him.
Ghost huffs, then crosses his arms. “Did you take a picture?”
Soap snorts, leaning against the wall with a smirk. “Aye, right, 'cause that wouldnae be creepy at all.”
Ghost stares daggers Into Soap, rolling his eyes and pushing himself off the wall. “Okay, then where is she?”
The three stooges lead the charge once again, this time with their Captain and Lieutenant in tow. They weave through the crowd toward the train park, where Soap eagerly scans for the woman and kid he’d spotted earlier. But the line they were in is empty, the pair nowhere to be found.
“Shite. I think they’re gone,” Soap mutters, his Scottish accent thickening in his frustration, the words rolling out with a clipped bite.
“So the imaginary woman and kid don’t actually exist,” Ghost deadpans, unimpressed.
“They exist!” Gaz insists, voice edging on exasperation.
“Sure,” Ghost replies, his tone flat and thoroughly unconvinced.
Roach snickers, then glances over at Price—only to see him staring slack-jawed through the window of a nearby café, his cigar dangling from his mouth, forgotten.
“Cap?” Roach says, touching the older man’s shoulder.
Price doesn’t look away, nodding toward the café. “Found them.”
Everyone turns toward the café, eyes landing on you and Adira. The little girl is happily weaving between your legs, her tiny hands gripping your coat as she entertains herself, all while you order hot chocolates to fend off the winter chill. A soft smile touches your lips as you watch her play, blissfully unaware of the audience gathering just outside.
The barista, with a warm smile, hands over two cups, one with a little extra marshmallows for Adira, her voice bright as she wishes you both a merry Christmas. You take the cups with a grateful nod, handing one to Adira. She immediately takes her drink, sipping eagerly, her small feet bouncing on her heels from the sugar rush.
“Yummy?” You ask, glancing down at her with a soft smile, a wave of motherly pride swelling in your chest as you watch her delight in the simple joy of her drink.
Adira nods eagerly, her eyes lighting up as she pulls away from her straw with a satisfied sigh. “Yummy.”
With a soft chuckle, you both leave the warmth of the shop, stepping out into the crisp air. Hand in hand, you walk back toward the park, the world around you feeling peaceful despite the cold. As you reach the crosswalk, you stop, waiting for the light to turn. Adira looks up at you, her little face filled with contentment as she swings your joined hands back and forth, her sugary energy still buzzing.
Across the way, the team stood frozen, unable to look away from the scene unfolding before them. Everyone but Ghost was struck by how much Adira looked like him—her features unmistakably mirroring his, save for the color of her hair and skin. The resemblance was uncanny, and for a brief moment, it felt like the world had stopped around them.
“She looks nothing like me,” Ghost stated plainly, his voice cutting through the stillness as though it were fact. His expression was unmoving, a wall of stubbornness in his eyes. He was ready to die on that hill.
Then, as fate would have it, a woman walking her dog passed by, and Adira’s cherub-like face hardened into a cold, calculating stare. It was subtle, but unmistakable.
“Nevermind,” Ghost muttered, his earlier conviction faltering as he watched her shift before his eyes.
“So… you’ve been having fun these past years?” Roach asked, his gaze flicking between Adira and Ghost, curiosity getting the better of him.
“Not that I know of,” Ghost grunted, his eyes still locked on you and Adira, a mix of unease and something else flickering across his face. He couldn’t pull himself away.
“Let’s get closer,” Price commanded, already making his move. Soap and Roach exchanged a shrug, falling in line without hesitation.
“Excuse me?” Gaz sputtered, though his body had already begun moving before his brain could catch up, unable to defy the Captain’s order.
Ghost fell silent, teeth gritted. This wasn’t a situation he was used to, especially not one where he was forced to go in blind. He stood stiffly at the crosswalk, trying to hide his glances, his focus split between the team and you.
Soap ended up the closest, standing just next to Adira. The little girl paused, her big, doe-like eyes lifting from her drink to catch sight of him. The recognition was instant. Her lips pursed into a small line, and her gaze grew heavy with annoyance.
“Ugee…” she whispered, scooting closer to you.
Soap froze, his mind stuttering for a moment. Did she just—? Did she call me ugly?
Gaz, standing behind him, couldn’t contain himself. A muffled laugh broke through as Soap turned to look at the others, wide-eyed and speechless, completely taken aback.
“Do ye lot think I'm ugly?” Soap asked, his voice thick with disbelief, clearly thrown off by the little girl's words.
“Not the time, Mctavish,” Price said, a tiny laugh tugging at the corner of his lips despite the situation.
The streetlight flickered green, signaling it was time to move. You adjusted yourself, ready to cross the street. Each member of the team started mentally preparing, unsure of how—or even if—they should approach you. Ghost, however, was the first to make a move, determined to intercept you. But Soap, ever the opportunist, beat him to it.
Ghost wasn’t exactly subtle, and having him try anything would probably send you running in the opposite direction.
“Excuse me, aren’t you the lady from the train?” Soap called out, his voice light, though his intentions were clear.
You paused at his interruption, recognition flickering in your eyes. You remembered the man who bumped into you earlier. “Yes? Is something the matter?”
“Do you happen to know where I could find Leslies?” Soap asked, a hint of uncertainty creeping into his voice, though he tried to mask it.
“The pub?” you asked, raising an eyebrow.
“Yes,” Soap confirmed, his face lighting up with a mix of relief and surprise at your easy response.
You look around for a moment, trying to remember and see the street names of your current location. “Uh…it should be about a couple blocks south from here. They have a big sign, you can't miss it.”
Thank God for Soap, because that one question was all he needed to keep you trapped in a conversation, his charm working its magic as you giggled and chatted away easily, the awkwardness of the situation melting away.
Meanwhile, Ghost’s attention shifted to Adira. He looked down at her, and she, almost instinctively, looked up at him. Their eyes locked in a silent staring contest, each of them studying the other. The intensity in their gaze was undeniable, both sets of eyes reflecting the same quiet, unwavering strength. It was like looking in a mirror—a mirror that mirrored back his own hardened stare and no-nonsense attitude.
Adira was, quite literally, his mini me. The resemblance was impossible to ignore.
“How old are you?” Ghost asked bluntly, his voice low as he kneeled down to Adira’s height, his gaze intense but trying to soften.
Adira paused for a moment, glancing up at you for help, but you were still caught up in conversation with Soap. She turned her focus back to Ghost, her small fingers fidgeting with the hem of her coat as she murmured shyly, “Two…”
She was two. Two. Ghost’s mind raced, trying to piece together the details, but nothing clicked. Nearly three years ago… what had he done three years ago? He kept everything categorized, stored in his mind like a well-organized file system, but this was something that didn’t fit.
Then, Soap’s voice broke through his thoughts.
“You don’t seem like the type of lass to frequent Leslies.”
You giggled, a soft blush creeping up your cheeks at Soap’s question. He wasn’t wrong… at least, not entirely. “I’ve only been to Leslie’s once, and, well… it’s how I ended up with my little blessing.” You glanced down at Adira, the warmth of your smile radiating as you spoke.
Everything shattered in that moment. Ghost’s stomach twisted painfully, his heart skipping a beat as the realization slammed into him like a freight train. Leslie's. Almost three years ago, during that stupid holiday.
His mind began to piece it together, the hazy memories from that night slowly coming into focus. He remembered the bar, the laughter, the way you had caught his attention. You were easy on the eyes, easy to make laugh, and most importantly—unlike everyone else. You didn’t ask questions, didn’t pry, you just let him lead, let him slip into the night with no strings attached.
But now, as he looked at Adira, everything fell into place. The way she stared at him, those familiar eyes, the resemblance he couldn’t ignore. His breath hitched, and the weight of the truth crushed him—she was his daughter.
A knot formed in his throat as he tried to process the fact. Adira. His daughter. The little girl standing before him was his flesh and blood, the result of a moment he'd long since buried in the depths of his mind.
---
Taglist: @auradaniela98-blog-blog @cumsluut @unstqblecvrses @moraxnomora @serafina-nyx @sage-burrow @skylarmitchell @xx-wal1flower-xx @n-y-x04 @gluttonybiscuits @imahugenerdlol @wehrgabriel @blackhawkfanatic @tazuduck @soxocs @jingyuansspouse @cutiecusp @sleepyoriana @forgottensomewhere @puppylikethedog @spongelistener @caged-birdies-blog @bubblegirll26 @misscaller06 @fuckbananas03 @watu2ka @yukisdelusional @redroserabbit
#simon ghost riley#simon ghost riley x reader#simon riley#ghost x you#simon ghost riley x you#simon ghost x reader#simon riley x reader#Singlemom!Reader#sunshine-sunni
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Empowering Lifelong Learning Through Skill Sharing
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The quest for information crosses conventional borders in the digital age. In the context of lifelong learning, skill sharing platforms have become revolutionary instruments, bringing in a new era of expertise democratization and accessibility for all. BSME2E is leading this movement and is a symbol of progress and opportunity.
BSME2E is a catalyst for both individual and group growth, not just a platform. It functions as a dynamic marketplace where enthusiastic professionals and information seekers come together to create a thriving learning ecosystem. Because of its user-centric design, BSME2E is able to identify the various learning requirements of its users and provides a wealth of materials that are catered to a range of skill levels, interests, and preferences. Being able to accommodate different learning methods is one of BSME2E's most appealing qualities. Through immersive simulations, cooperative projects, or interactive lessons, students can participate in a way that speaks to them individually. This flexibility builds a basis for long-term growth and development by encouraging greater comprehension and retention.
At the core of the BSME2E experience is personalization. By utilizing sophisticated algorithms and user feedback systems, the platform creates customized learning paths for every user, assisting them on their specific path of exploration. From basic ideas to sophisticated methods, BSME2E guarantees that students have the knowledge and abilities necessary to succeed in a world that is always changing. Additionally, BSME2E is essential in helping people get ready for the demands of the modern workforce. Continuous upskilling and reskilling has become essential as industry dynamics change and technology breakthroughs restructure the labor market. By bridging the knowledge gap between education and work, BSME2E enables its customers to stay competitive and ahead of the curve in their chosen industries.
BSME2E promotes a culture of lifelong learning that goes well beyond professional growth and the boundaries of the workplace. It fosters an environment that is conducive to inquiry, innovation, and progress, fostering a community of lifelong learners who are driven to advance themselves.
FOR AUDIO: CLICK HERE
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Have you got what it takes to build a true talent marketplace?
This blog emphasizes the importance of cultivating a true talent marketplace beyond technology. It highlights issues like a lack of organizational culture, poor communication, and insufficient knowledge of employees' skills. The blog advocates for a two-way talent marketplace with transparent communication, two-way stack-ranking, and effective ways of working. The CEO of Kalido, Sanjay Varma, emphasizes the need to broaden the search for talent. Kalido is presented as a solution offering a 360° view of skills, two-way stack-ranking, and tools for effective talent management and retention.
If you want to get complete information related to this topic click HERE.
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"A Deep Dive into Fiverr's Programming & Tech Services"
Introduction In the dynamic landscape of technology, innovation propels us forward, bridging the gap between creativity and functionality. Within this realm, Fiverr’s Programming & Tech category emerges as a digital agora, where skilled freelancers converge to offer their technical expertise. With the tap of a button, individuals and businesses can access a multitude of programming and tech…
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#Cybersecurity and Data Protection Solutions#Database Design and Management Services#Desktop Application Creation#Digital Services Marketplace#E-Commerce Development Experts#Expert Tech Services Online#Fiverr Programming Services#Game Development Professionals#Mobile App Developers#Programming & Tech Services#Tech Freelancers on Fiverr#Top Tech Talents on Fiverr#Virtual Collaboration for Tech Projects#Web Development Solutions
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It’s always baker!reader or butcher!Simon—which is always delicious, mind you—but I’m not sure I’ve ever seen baker!Simon (correct me if I’m wrong). Fem!Reader.
Baker!Simon who decided to take his therapist’s advice to find a relaxing hobby and taught himself to bake and decorate after retiring from the military.
Baker!Simon who runs a home bakery so he can do what he loves where he loves. Where else could he blast his favorite playlists while creating tasty treats (he’s convinced that listening to Tool truly helps make the goodies taste better)?
Baker!Simon who specializes in intricate desserts—flawless layered cakes lathered in rich buttercream, perfectly piped patterns across the surface. Soft, chewy sugar cookies with royal icing that has a satisfying snap to those who can actually bear to bite into them and ruin his beautiful designs. Smooth, vibrant macarons with a gorgeous rise and creamy ganache filling.
Baker!Simon who gets his traction on Facebook. He sells his goods on Marketplace and is a member of nearly every baking group on the site—and is quite popular amongst the older ladies in the same groups.
Baker!Simon who, as amazing as his baked goods look and taste, cannot take a flattering picture of them to save his life. Because of this, he doesn’t get as much business as he’d like. Apparently, Marketplace shoppers are picky about camera quality, as if that has anything to do with talent or flavor. Even the baking groups he’s in have given him warnings in the past to take clearer photos—the admins backed off as soon as the old ladies found out they were picking on their best boy.
Food Photographer!Reader who stumbles upon one of his groups one day, seeing the potential in his treats and knowing she could help him out with his promotion photos.
Baker!Simon who cocks an eyebrow at the ping his phone alerts him of, opening Messenger to see a pretty thing with a camera in his DMs:
Sorry to bother you, but I’ve gone through your profile and I think your work is absolutely gorgeous. If you’re interested, I’m a trained photographer and I’d like to help you out with your pictures? No charge, don’t worry. Consider it a favor between two small businesses! :)
Part 2 <3
#uh oh#everyone say ‘fru stop making new AUs’#jk send in allllll the asks about him!!!!#call of duty#cod#cod mw2#simon riley x reader#simon ghost riley#Baker!Simon
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CC’s Present
[A/N: A quick little Lovebytes-sized ficlet for the holidays! Please forgive grammatical errors, I wrote this while on my flight home. Merry Christmas!]
“What do you want for Christmas?”
CC replayed the audio clip again in hopes it would spark a solution, to no avail. Normally, she could answer any query her lab-partner-turned-life-partner presented to her, but for the first time, Tails had her completely stumped.
After all, apart from Tails’ affection there was only one thing she desired; something that couldn’t be purchased or crafted. So when “The Team” floated the idea of meeting up to check out the holiday marketplace as a group, she immediately cleared her and Tails’ calendar so they could attend. This would be the perfect opportunity to study the art of gift-giving and hopefully spark some inspiration.
CC found that this time of year brought out one of the traits she adored most in Mobians. There was something about the holidays that encouraged a sense of camaraderie unlike the rest of the year. No matter the number of board meetings, busy schedules or other duties that plagued daily life, everyone seemed to drop everything in order to spend time with each other during this particular season.
Upon entering the market, the group broke up and darted in various directions. Sonic and Knuckles linked arms with Tails and began chanting “Brats! Brats! Brats!” before carrying the tall, yellow fox towards one of the food trucks. Tails looked over his shoulder to CC. “Sorry, it’s our favorite. I’ll be right back!”
“Please, enjoy yourselves,” CC encouraged, chuckling at the “brothers” antics. She politely clasped her hands behind her back before meandering through the market to analyze the crowd. She smiled at the numerous small children whose pupils dilated at the sight of candies on display. Women laughed and clinked souvenir mugs brimming with spiked hot chocolate. Merchants cheered and greeted customers in numerous different languages.
The Robian decided to make her way to a booth that was currently occupied by two familiar hedgehogs.
“Gaia, look at this one! It’s so gorgeous—Sir, you are so talented!” Aurora had her hands clapped over her cheeks in excitement. Her green eyes were sparkling like gems as she ogled the handmade decorations that were hanging all over the merchant’s booth. “Oh wow, did you see this one Shadow?! Oh Gaia it’s the prettiest thing in the whole wide world!” She bounced on her heels trying to contain her enthusiasm. “But wait this one! This one looks just like you! Look at that grumpy little face- ahh!!!” The black and red hedgehog smirked while sipping his mulled wine and sent a pointed look and nod to the vendor who secretly began boxing up each of the items the woman had pointed to.
CC didn’t follow as Aurora ran off to another booth that had caught her attention. The Robian furrowed her brows. Sure this market had plenty of pieces of art that were pleasing to the eye, but nothing that stirred a desire in her. Nothing made her “want.” How was it these things came so easily to Organics? It was so… frustrating.
Her grimace was quickly replaced with a soft smile and a sigh. Every emotion, no matter how negative, was a blessing. Not every synthetic-being could experience these feelings, so she thanked her lucky stars for the brief ”annoyance” before moving on for more analaysis.
One of her ears rotated to catch the sound of some youthful hollering. Following the commotion, she spotted Rouge with her two sons. The bat was adorned head to toe in luxurious faux furs with fibers so ivory they rivaled the fresh winter snow. Her poise and glamor was in complete contrast to the young hyena boys who play-wrestled and tugged on each others scarves. But to everyone’s surprise, the refined woman suddenly scooped the boys up in her grasp and attacked them with tickles that sent them howling with laughter.
“Are you boys hungry?”
“Yeah I’m STARVIN’!” groaned Tumble. He patted his round, youthful belly. “I’m waistin’ away, Ma!”
“How do s’mores sound?”
Both boys jumped out of Rouge’s grasp and looked at her with eyes as wide as saucers.
“Seriously?!” asked Ruff, the oldest. “They’ve got s’mores here?!?”
“Only for kids who say ‘Please’,” the bat teased.
In unison, the two hyenas clasped their hands in a begging motion and wagged their tails side to side. “Please please please please please!”
CC giggled at how aggressively their tails wagged, to the point it made their entire bodies sway. How interesting it was that this extension of the vertebrae was used not only for balance and steering, but for conveying emotions. Hmm.
“Okay let’s go!” Rouge took her children’s hands and the three ran through the crowd, laughing and cheering.
“There you are, my darling husband!” Sang a familiar voice. CC looked over to spot Amy Rose waving at Sonic who was finishing up his third bratwurst. Though his mouth was stuffed, he smiled and beckoned with his hand to come meet him. He swallowed down the last large bite. “Heya, I was just about to look for-“
In a sudden mad dash, the pink hedgehog closed the gap between them and leapt forward, arms outstretched. Sonic managed to catch her but stumbled back a few steps from the sheer force of her hug. Amy crashed her lips into his and kissed him with such vigor one would think the lovers had been apart for years.
CC had to avert her eyes for a moment, her cheeks warming up from being an onlooker to such strong displays of affection. Still, Amy’s passion and the ease with which she showed her love was something CC truly admired. She hoped Tails and herself would be able to express themselves as freely one day.
“Wowza!” Sonic laughed breathlessly once he and Amy finally broke their kiss.
“You taste like mustard,” Amy teased, her nose scrunched up.
Sonic wiped his thumb along her bottom lip and smiled with a large, lopsided grin. “I coulda warned ya if you didn’t come at me all gung ho like that.”
“You know I can’t help myself,” the pink hedgehog took Sonic’s muzzle into her hands, combing the tan, shaggy fur that filled out his cheeks. “Especially when you’re extra fluffy like this!”
“Extra fluffy, extra irresistible,” Sonic chuckled before Amy kissed him again with an enthusiastic “MMM-HMM!”
CC turned her back to the couple to spare herself from more blushing. She reached up and placed her fingertips along her own cheek. Though the muzzle she built herself was outfitted with a soft, suede like texture, it didn’t have nearly the plush or fullness of Tails’ or even Sonic’s during the wintertime. She removed one of her signature charcoal gloves and studied the segments in her robotic fingers. Her eyes glazed over as she ruminated over the data she had collected and an idea began to grow.
She was startled when a gloved hand took hold of her own. Her electric blue eyes followed the arm to identify the owner and felt a growing warmth in her soul once she realized it was Tails.
“Hello there,” the fox smiled.
“Hello. I did not see you returning from the delicatessen.”
”Lost in thought?”
CC’s smile grew wide and she laced her fingers with her partner’s. “Yes. I have decided what I want for my Christmas present. However, I would like to ask that I receive it earlier than is customary. It is a ‘topical’ request, you see.”
Tails grinned. “Sure! Let’s hear it!”
His girlfriend leaned in close and whispered her idea into his ear. His eyes lit up and his twin tails swished with inspiration.
“That’s brilliant! Let’s do it!”
———
It had been almost two weeks since The Gang had heard from Tails once again. It wasn’t unusual for the fox to go “radio silent” for long periods of time as his work at Yellow Sky Industries kept him plenty busy. But when the group received an urgent request to come to Tails’ home out of the blue, it had them raising their eyebrows.
What made the situation all the more suspicious was that Tails had everyone waiting on the lawn standing before a curtained off display. The group of friends and family members huddled close and muttered curses under their breath for making them gather in the frigid winter air.
“Bud, why exactly do ya have us all gathered outside? It’s cold as Holoska out here!” Sonic groaned, rubbing his arms in an attempt to keep warm.
“It’s vital to the presentation,” Tails responded curtly.
Knuckles snapped his fingers. “Then hurry it up, already. My wife’s wings’re about to snap off!”
Rouge elbowed Knuckles. “My hero.”
“Very well,” Tails clapped his hands before suddenly jumping into a crouched position, his hands splayed wide to entice his audience. “Ladies and gentlemen!” He projected a voice far more confident and engaging than his friend group was used to. It was clear Tails had transitioned into ‘tech-presenter’ mode. “This holiday season we are thrilled to introduce to you-“ he pressed a button on his wrist-watch and a drumroll began to play from a series of hidden speakers. He stepped backwards towards the curtain, waving his hands to emphasize his words.
”The stunning-“
He gripped onto the curtain.
“The dazzling!-“
With a dramatic flourish, Tails drew back the curtain and the small crowd gave a collective gasp.
“CC: Winter Edition!”
Upon the makeshift stage, CC was a vision in white posed gracefully to best show off her recent upgrades.
“Marvel at CC as you’ve never seen her before,” Tails continued with his best salesman impersonation. He delicately took the Robian’s wrist into his hand and held her arm up, waving and gesturing along her limb. “-With brand new features perfectly suited for this frosty weather.”
Where CC’s external bodice was once gray with short fibers or smooth, hard casing, she was now fully covered in plush white fur except for her slate ears. Instead of traditional gloves, her hands were covered with just enough artificial pelt to hide her seams and give her fingers a more natural look. Her smile was accentuated with a muzzle that had tufts of fur on either side of her cheeks. Her short, silver hair was now a few inches longer, ivory, and considerably more voluminous.
Tails’ fingers trailed up CC’s shoulder where he delicately twirled one of her locks. “Now adorned with a luscious winter coat as pearlescent as the winter snow but as soft and warm as a summer’s day.” The fox paused for a moment as he locked eyes with his girlfriend and the two shared an unspoken blush. He cleared his throat before continuing with the show.
“And with the most highly anticipated feature yet-!”
CC grinned and twirled, fanning the group with a breeze as they were brushed with a large, soft object.
“THAT TAIL!!!” Everyone exclaimed at once.
Protruding from a seam in her miniskirt was an extra long, extra fluffy tail that rivaled her partner’s. It would still take a good amount of practice to determine when and how it would best be used, but for her friends’ enjoyment CC gave the appendage a few swishes and flicks which was met with oohs and ahhs.
“Oh!” the Robian turned to face the group once more, earning a whine from some of her friends who were enjoying the warmth and softness of her new tail. CC excitedly pointed in the air with one hand and used the other to clutch onto her stomach. “Additionally, I now have the ability to brew hot cocoa! I simply open this compartment-“
Tails quickly placed his hand atop hers to stop her. “Let’s skip that demo. It’s pretty unsettling but she insisted we add it.”
CC shrugged and recalled a phrase she had heard Sonic use on similar occasions. “Your loss.”
A small hand raised up from the group. Tails resumed his showman performance. “Yes, young man. You have a question?”
Tumble, the youngest of the crew, stepped forward. His teeth chattered as he fumbled with his scarf, “Ssssss-CC, d-d-do you ssstill have your toasssty mode?”
CC smiled and opened her arms wide. From the center of her chest, a subtle orange glow was visible even from under her light sweater. ”Come see for yourself,” she invited.
All at once, friends and family rushed forward and embraced CC in a giant group hug. There was a muddled collection of sighs and compliments as everyone soaked in the warmth.
“Yes, so warm!”
“Your fur is so soft, I could fall asleep!”
“You look beautiful,” Amy cheered, affectionately holding CC’s chin to get an even closer look, “but more importantly you look so happy!”
”I don’t know if I’d say that’s more important,” Rouge chimed in. She hugged CC’s arm to drape around her neck like a shawl. “Look at that shimmer in her fur! Like diamonds!”
The Robian laughed at all her friends’ remarks. She was so thrilled when she and Tails first assembled these seasonal accessories, but now she was even more delighted at everyone’s response. Cozying up with her found family, she now had just about everything she could ever want.
Her tail found its way towards one of her partner’s and she curled it around his. The touch made Tails look her way, and when their eyes met once again they found their blush return to their cheeks.
“Thank you,” CC mouthed so as not to speak over everyone else’s commentary.
“Merry Christmas,” Tails mouthed back with a wink.
#my work#my writing#my art#lovebytes#tailsxcc#my ocs#my AU#cc the ai#cc the robian#miles tails prower#tails#tall!tails#sonamy#shadora#shadowxaurora#shadowxaurora?#knuxouge#knucklesXrouge#ruff the hyena#tumble the hyena#ruff and tumble hyena#sonic trash#sonic the hedgehog#aurora the hedgehog#Amy rose#merry Christmas#happy holidays#fanfic#fan fiction
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Direct continuation of this
14th Century, The Wedding
The chapel was quiet, the flickering candlelight casting golden hues over the stone walls. Dick grinned as he clasped Dan’s hands, his voice soft but full of playful energy.
“Do you think the gods will bless us?” dick asked.
Dan raised a brow, his stoicism barely hiding a hint of a smile. “If they don’t, I’ll have a word with them myself.”
“For once, you’re not brooding,” dick laughed “I could get used to this.”
Dan smirked faintly. “You have a talent for unsettling me.”
As they exchanged vows, Dan felt something he rarely allowed himself to feel: hope.
It was short-lived.
When dick fell ill years later and succumbed to the plague, Dan begged the gods to take him too. Instead, they cursed him, forcing him to live with his grief.
---
Dan wandered through centuries, haunted by dick's absence. Time didn’t dull the ache; instead, it sharpened it, leaving him restless and yearning for the impossible.
16th-Century venise
The courtesan was beautiful, with dark hair and a sharp wit that reminded Dan of dick. He found himself drawn to her, lavishing her with gifts and stolen moments.
“You seem sad,” she said one night, tracing a finger along his jaw. “You’re always looking at me like you expect me to say something I haven’t.”
Dan forced a smile. “You remind me of someone I lost.”
She kissed him softly, but it felt hollow. No one could match the fire that dick had carried in his soul.
---
17th-Century England
The lively marketplace bustled with activity as Dan passed through, blending into the crowd. A merchant’s voice caught his attention, cutting through the noise with its cheeky charm.
“Careful, sir, you’ll scare the quills if you stare any harder.”
Dan’s gaze snapped to the stall, and his breath caught. The merchant’s auburn hair and bright smile were eerily familiar. He bought a quill just to linger, his heart aching with an unnamed longing.
“You remind me of someone,” Dan murmured.
“Lucky him,” the merchant teased.
Dan left, the stranger’s laughter echoing in his mind.
---
The Napoleonic Wars (19th Century)
The young soldier, Henri, had dick's cheeky grin and quick tongue. They met during a brutal campaign, bonding over shared hardships.
“You’re too quiet, Dan,” Henri said one night by the fire. “You’ve got stories, I can tell.”
Dan chuckled softly. “You wouldn’t believe me if I told you.”
Henri laughed and leaned closer, his gaze lingering. Dan kissed him, hoping the heat would drown out the emptiness. It didn’t. Henri was kind, but he wasn’t him.
---
19th-Century Paris
The bookshop was warm and dimly lit, a haven from the cold Parisian streets. Dan browsed aimlessly, distracted by the shopkeeper’s lively chatter with another customer.
“You’ve got a serious look about you,” the shopkeeper said, noticing Dan. “Let me guess—love lost?”
Dan stiffened. The man’s blue eyes and teasing smile felt too familiar. He handed Dan a slim volume of poetry. “This one’s good for broken hearts. I’d know.”
Dan nodded curtly, paying without a word. As he left, the shopkeeper’s parting words lingered: “Come back if you need more stories.”
It was sweet, but Dan already knew he wouldn't be coming back
---
20th Century A Bar
In a smoky speakeasy in New York, Dan nursed a drink while watching the barmaid move through the crowd. She had dick's charm and confidence, her laughter cutting through the haze of jazz and cigarette smoke.
She leaned against the bar, grinning at him. “You’ve been staring all night. Care to explain?"
“You remind me of someone,” Dan admitted, his voice low.
“Lucky her,” she teased, pouring him another drink.
Dan smiled, but it didn’t reach his eyes. He tried to convince himself that these fleeting connections were enough, but the truth gnawed at him: they weren’t.
---
20th-Century New York
The train station buzzed with energy as soldiers boarded. Dan leaned against a pillar, watching a young man in uniform charm a group of women nearby.
“Not boarding?” the soldier asked, his grin infectious.
“No,” Dan replied.
“Suit yourself.” The soldier extended a hand. “Rick.”
Dan hesitated before shaking it. “Dan.”
As the conductor called for final boarding, Rick tipped his hat. “See you around, Dan.”
Dan watched him go, the ache in his chest a reminder of something he couldn’t quite place.
Dick grayson’s life had always felt... incomplete. He couldn’t explain the strange dreams that plagued him—visions of a medieval chapel, a bustling market, a quiet bookshop. He dismissed them as nothing more than fantasies.
As Nightwing, Gotham demanded his focus. Yet, during a battle with a rogue magician, something changed.
A spell struck him mid-air, throwing him to the ground. Pain rippled through his body, but so did something else—a torrent of memories flooding his mind.
Dan, he mind whispered to him
Oh.
Oh.
Dick spent months tracking Dan down, piecing together clues from his fragmented memories and his skills as Nightwing.
He chased whispers of a man who never seemed to age, stories of someone who disappeared when connections grew too close.
In every lead, dick saw glimpses of Dan’s regret—an unfinished painting left behind in a French chateau, a carefully preserved diary in a London museum, a love letter hidden in the pages of an old book.
Each discovery hardened Dick's resolve. “You won’t run from me this time,” he muttered as he packed his gear.
Dan was sitting in his apartment, staring at the same photograph. The weight of centuries pressed down on him, his guilt and longing a constant ache.
The knock at his door startled him. He wasn’t expecting anyone. When he opened it, his breath caught.
Dick stood there, rain dripping from his hair, his eyes blazing with determination.
“How many lifetimes will it take before you see me for who I am?” dick demanded, stepping into the room without waiting for an invitation.
Dan took a step back, his mind racing. “dick?”
“Yes, Dan,” dick said, his voice firm. “It’s me. It’s always been me. And you—” his voice broke slightly, “you’ve been running from this for centuries.”
Dan sank into a chair, unable to meet dick's gaze. “I thought I was protecting you,” he whispered.
Dick crouched in front of him, gripping his hands. “You thought you were protecting yourself,” he said, his tone softer now. “But I’m here, Dan. I’ve always been here. And I remember everything,i remember you”
Dan’s eyes filled with tears. “I wanted to save you from this... from me.”
“You’re not saving me by leaving me behind,” dick said, his voice thick with emotion. “You’re breaking us both.”
The room was quiet, and Dan hesitated before reaching out, his fingers brushing against dick's cheek.
“I’m so sorry,” Dan murmured, his voice cracking.
Dick leaned into the touch, closing his eyes. “Then stop running. Stop hiding. Be with me this time. For real.”
Dan nodded, a tear slipping down his cheek. “I don’t deserve you.”
“You deserve everything,” dick said fiercely. “But you have to let yourself believe it.”
---
Months later, Dan and dick walked along the Gotham waterfront, the city alive with its usual chaos. But for the first time in centuries, Dan didn’t feel haunted.
“You’re awfully quiet,” dick said, bumping Dan’s shoulder. “Regretting your decision already?”
Dan chuckled, a rare sound that made dick grin. “Hardly. I’m just... grateful.”
Dick smirked. “Good. Because I’m not letting you off the hook this time. You owe me centuries of explanations, love letters, and... well, everything.”
Dan stopped walking, turning to face him. “You have my eternity."
Dick's grin softened, and he leaned in, pressing a kiss to Dan’s lips. For the first time, they were finally whole.
#dp x dc#dcxdp#dpxdc#dan phantom x dick grayson#dick grayson#dan fenton#bad humor ship#bad humor#first failures ship#first failures#they're my babies#i love them your honor
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FlexC is an AI Talent Platform that pulls from a wide array of data to identify the best fit for your role. This can help companies convert talent into the people they were looking for, faster.
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Invisible | Part 26
Bucky x Reader AU
Word Count: 3.6k
Warnings: smut sorta brief
A/N: ONE MOREEEEEEEEEE
----
It was late afternoon, and you had been nursing a cup of coffee, scrolling through potential second hand furniture finds on Facebook Marketplace. Sliding your finger across the screen, you answered with a warm, “Hey, Wilson. How’s my best friend doing?”
Sam’s chuckle filled the line. “Don’t let Bucky hear you say that, I’m doing good, though. How about you? What’s been going on?”
“Everything’s good here,” you said, leaning back in your chair. “Boston is becoming more real by the day. I can’t believe I can say I’m a homeowner, we just had the inspection guy out and everything is perfect.”
“You’re really doing it,” Sam said, his voice tinged with excitement. “I’m still in shock that you’re finally moving out of the city.”
“It feels right,” you admitted. “Bucky and I have been talking about this since we started at NYU, way too busy and hectic. Never thought we’d do it together, and honestly? I’m ready for something new. A fresh start.”
“Speaking of fresh starts,” Sam said, his tone turning playful, “when are you going to drop the bomb on the rest?”
You sighed, rubbing your temple. “I’m telling Wanda and Nat during girls’ night in a couple of days. Steve’s a little more complicated. Bucky’s going to help him move into his new apartment upstate, and that’s when he’s going to tell him.”
“Wow, real division of labor there,” Sam teased. “You get wine and face masks, and Bucky gets a moving truck.”
“Hey, it’s strategic,” you countered with a laugh. “And I have to confess something else.”
“Oh, I love secrets,” Sam said, his voice lowering conspiratorially. “Lay it on me.”
“I don’t think I’m going to work in editing anymore,” you said, feeling your stomach flip at saying it out loud. “I’m thinking of writing my own book.”
The line was silent for a moment before Sam practically yelled, “Shut up! Are you serious? About time! You’ve been hiding that talent of yours for too long.”
“Thanks, Sammy,” you said, your cheeks flushing even though he couldn’t see you. “It’s just an idea right now. But Boston feels like the perfect place to start.”
“It’s more than an idea if you’re telling me about it,” Sam said knowingly. “I’m so proud of you. Seriously.”
“Thanks,” you said softly, your chest warming at his sincerity.
“So, how’s everything else?” Sam asked, his tone casual. “Things with Barnes are still good?”
“They’re amazing,” you said, the smile evident in your voice. “Better than I ever thought they could be. I don’t think I’ve ever been this happy.”
“That’s what I like to hear,” Sam said. “I’ve also heard from a little birdie that Steve and Nat have been spending more time together. Any truth to that?”
“There definitely is,” you confirmed, grinning. “They’ve been hanging out a lot. It’s nice to see them finally figuring it out.”
Sam let out a satisfied hum. “Good. I was rooting for those two. Look, let me know the date for the housewarming party once you’re settled in Boston. I’ll be there with bells on.”
“You better be,” you said, laughing. “It wouldn’t be the same without you.”
Sam’s voice softened slightly. “It’s good to hear you so happy. You deserve this.”
“Thanks, Sammy,” you said, your voice thick with emotion. “You’ve always been my biggest cheerleader, you know that?”
“Don’t make me cry,” Sam joked. “I’ve got a reputation to uphold.”
---
The apartment was a maze of half-packed boxes, bubble wrap, and the faint scent of pizza from the night before. You were crouched over a pile of books, trying to fit them into an already-too-full box when Bucky walked in, holding two mugs of coffee. His hair was tousled from running his hands through it, a few strands falling lazily over his forehead, and the plain white t-shirt stretched over his chest just right. He looked effortlessly gorgeous.
“Coffee delivery,” he announced, his voice warm and teasing as he set one of the mugs on the table near you.
“You’re a lifesaver,” you said, reaching for it, your fingers brushing his briefly. A spark, familiar yet thrilling, ran through you. “We’re never going to get this done in time.”
“Not with that attitude,” Bucky teased, leaning against the wall, his muscles shifting under the thin fabric as he sipped his coffee. “Besides, we’ve got time. You’re just stressing out for no reason.”
You rolled your eyes but smiled. “Maybe, but I like being ahead of schedule.”
Bucky stepped closer, crouching beside you, his scent—coffee, a hint of cologne, and something undeniably him—enveloping you. He peered into the box with mock seriousness. “You sure you’re not just stalling because you don’t want to leave this apartment?”
You shrugged, the weight of his presence making your heartbeat quicken. “Maybe a little. There are a lot of good memories here.”
Bucky’s grin softened, his fingers brushing a stray hair from your face before leaning in to kiss your temple. The kiss was brief but lingered, its warmth spreading through you like sunlight breaking through clouds. “We’re going to make even better ones in Boston. Just wait.”
The tenderness of his touch, the promise in his voice, it was too much. You turned your head, capturing his lips with yours, your kiss soft at first, then deepening. Bucky's hands framed your face, his touch grounding yet electric. You let the coffee mug slip from your grip, forgotten as your fingers found the soft cotton of his shirt, bunching it as you pulled him closer.
The world around you blurred, the half-packed boxes and looming deadline fading into irrelevance. Bucky shifted, the heat of his body pressed against yours as his lips moved with practiced ease, drawing you deeper into the moment. A subtle tug of your bottom lip made your breath hitch, and you couldn’t help the quiet sound that escaped you—a sound that seemed to ignite something in him.
Without breaking the kiss, Bucky guided you backward, his movements careful yet unrelenting. You both tumbled over a pile of empty boxes, landing in a tangled heap on the floor. A surprised laugh bubbled out of you, your back against the hardwood as Bucky hovered over you, his weight deliciously pressing you down.
“Guess that’s one way to take a break,” you said, breathless, brushing a piece of hair from your face.
Bucky’s grin was devilish as he propped himself up on his elbows, looking down at you. “You know what this means, don’t you?”
You raised an eyebrow, still catching your breath. “That we need to be more careful with the boxes?”
He shook his head, his voice dropping an octave, sending a shiver down your spine. “It means we have to make a new memory here before we leave.”
“Bucky,” you protested weakly, even as your fingers curled into the fabric of his shirt, pulling him closer.
“Don’t fight it, doll,” he murmured, his lips brushing against your jawline, then lower, to the sensitive curve of your neck. “Let me take care of you.”
The protest died on your lips as his hands skimmed down your sides, his touch reverent yet possessive. His lips found that spot just below your ear, the one that made you gasp, your back arching against him. His hands slipped under the hem of your shirt, the calloused pads of his fingers tracing patterns on your skin, leaving a trail of fire in their wake.
“Tell me you don’t want this,” he said, his voice a low growl that sent heat pooling low in your belly. He paused, his lips hovering just above yours, his breath warm and tantalizing. “Say the word, and I’ll stop.”
You bit your lip, your pulse pounding in your ears. Instead of answering, you slid your hands up his chest, over the hard planes of muscle, and pulled him down to you, your lips crashing together with a need that made your head spin.
“Thought so,” he muttered against your mouth, his tone smug but affectionate.
Bucky’s hands slide beneath your shirt, his touch deliberate yet achingly gentle, like he’s savoring every inch of contact. His fingers skim along the curve of your waist, warm and rough against your softer skin, as he slowly pushes the fabric up and over your head. His eyes flicker to yours as he tosses it aside, the air between you charged with unspoken words. When his gaze finally drops, it’s not just hunger you see—it’s reverence, like you’re something sacred.
You feel your chest rise and fall, your breathing uneven beneath the weight of his stare. A blush blooms across your skin, and you wonder if he notices how the anticipation makes you tremble.
“You’re stunning,” he murmurs, his voice low and hoarse. It’s the kind of tone that makes you believe every word, even as your instinct is to look away, overwhelmed by the intensity of his attention. But you don’t, because you can see how much this moment means to him too.
He leans down, his lips brushing against the swell of your breasts, his breath warm and uneven against your skin. He presses open-mouthed kisses there, his pace unhurried, and you feel the faint scrape of his stubble—a delicious contrast to the softness of his lips. His hands follow the curves of your body, his touch familiar yet thrilling, like he’s rediscovering you all over again.
Your body responds instinctively, arching into him, and your fingers tangle in his hair. You tug lightly, guiding his mouth lower, and he follows without hesitation, his lips and tongue teasing the sensitive peaks of your chest. The heat of his mouth against you sends a sharp jolt of pleasure through your body, and you can’t help the quiet gasp that escapes you.
“Bucky,” you whisper, the sound somewhere between a plea and a prayer.
His name falls from your lips just as your hips shift against him, unbidden, desperate for more. The hard length of him presses against your thigh, a tangible reminder of his own desire, and the realization sends a flush of heat coursing through you.
He pulls back slightly, just enough to sit up and tug his shirt over his head. The motion is fluid, practiced, but there’s something almost shy about the way he pauses, letting you take him in. Your eyes roam over him “Beautiful,” you murmur, your voice soft but full of meaning.
The corner of his mouth twitches, but he doesn’t reply. Instead, his hand brushes over yours, steadying you as you reach for the button of his jeans. Your fingers fumble slightly, and you both laugh quietly, the moment laced with affection despite the heat simmering between you. When you finally slide the zipper down and free him from the denim, his breath hitches, and you feel a surge of confidence.
You wrap your hand around him, your touch slow and deliberate, and his response is immediate—a low groan that vibrates through you as his hips buck involuntarily. His lips find yours again, the kiss messy, hungry, as though he can’t get close enough.
Without warning, he pulls you back down to the floor, his body covering yours, his weight grounding you as his hands resume their exploration. Every touch, every caress is a silent declaration, a promise etched into your skin. His fingers slide lower, finding the heat between your thighs, and when he slips inside, your gasp turns into a broken moan.
“Look at me,” he murmurs, his voice a soft command. You do, your eyes meeting his as he watches you fall apart under his touch. The intimacy of it, the vulnerability, is almost too much, but you don’t look away.
“Please,” you breathe, your voice trembling with need. Your nails dig into his shoulders, and he seems to understand exactly what you’re asking for.
He withdraws his hand, and the loss makes you whine softly, but then he’s shifting, positioning himself between your thighs. The weight of him, the way his body fits against yours, makes you feel like you were made for this—for him.
He pauses, his forehead resting against yours, his breath mingling with yours in the small space between you. “I love you,” he says, the words thick with emotion.
Your chest tightens, and you reach up to cup his face, your thumbs brushing over the stubble on his jaw. “I love you too,” you whisper, your voice steady despite the storm of emotions inside you.
When he finally presses into you, it’s slow, deliberate, as though he’s savoring every second. The stretch is perfect, a mix of pleasure and ache that has you gasping, your body instinctively rising to meet his. He stills for a moment, letting you adjust, and you can see the effort it takes for him to hold back.
“You okay?” he asks, his voice barely more than a whisper.
You nod, your hands sliding down his back, anchoring him to you. “Perfect,” you murmur.
He moves then, his thrusts slow and deliberate, each one sending a wave of pleasure coursing through you. His eyes never leave yours, and it’s that connection—the raw, unguarded intimacy—that undoes you.
Time seems to blur, the world outside fading until there’s nothing but the two of you. His movements grow more urgent, more desperate, and you meet him with equal fervor, your bodies finding a rhythm that feels as natural as breathing.
When the tension finally snaps, it’s overwhelming, a flood of sensation that leaves you trembling beneath him. He follows moments later, his body shuddering as he buries his face in the crook of your neck, his breath hot and uneven against your skin.
In the aftermath, he doesn’t move right away, his arms wrapped around you as though he’s afraid to let go. You press a soft kiss to his temple, your fingers tracing idle patterns along his back.
“I love you,” he whispers again, the words barely audible but heavy with meaning.
“I love you more,” you reply, and in that moment, there’s no doubt in your mind that it’s true.
“Most romantic floor sex ever” Bucky laughs brushing a strand of hair from your face as he rolls off of you.
Your phone started to ping over and over again “Told you we didn’t have time for this,” you teased, your voice hoarse and shaky as you turned your head to meet his gaze.
“Worth it,” he said with a lazy grin, his thumb brushing against your hip in lazy circles. “But I guess we should get going.”
You groaned, half in exasperation, half in contentment, as you pushed yourself up, reaching for your discarded shirt. Bucky’s gaze followed you, his expression a mix of admiration and mischief.
���Keep looking at me like that, and we’ll really be late,” you warned, pulling the fabric over your head.
“Noted,” he said, chuckling as he sat up and pressed a lingering kiss to your shoulder. “Till next time.”
----
The sun was high as Bucky carried another box up the steps of Steve’s new apartment. The place was smaller than his last one, but it had character—exposed brick, tall windows, and just enough space for Steve to live comfortably. Still, it was far. Far from Natasha, Wanda, and even farther from you and Bucky.
“You sure about this place?” Bucky asked as he set the box down just inside the front door. “It’s far from Nat’s, and Wanda’s, and our place.”
Steve shrugged, wiping sweat from his brow as he came up behind him with a duffel bag slung over his shoulder. “Yeah, I know. But it’s closer to work. The commute was killing me. Besides,” he added with a small smile, “the only reason I moved closer to you guys in the first place was to stay near everyone.”
Bucky leaned against the doorframe, nodding. “I get it. Makes sense.” He paused, watching Steve organize his stuff. “Speaking of moving…”
Steve froze mid-step, turning to look at Bucky. “Speaking of moving, what?”
Bucky shifted his weight, scratching the back of his neck. “Me and Y/N… we’re moving to Boston.”
Steve blinked, the words taking a second to register. “Holy shit,” he finally said, setting the bag down. “Boston? That’s a big move. Congratulations, man.”
“Thanks,” Bucky said, smiling softly.
Steve studied him for a second, his brow furrowing slightly. “This doesn’t have anything to do with me, does it?” he asked, his tone careful. “Because I’m working on it, you know. I’m starting to see things differently. I actually… I asked Nat out on a second date.”
Bucky straightened at that, a grin spreading across his face. “Did you now?”
Steve nodded, a little bashfully. “Yeah. She really is something.”
“Well, it’s about damn time,” Bucky teased, clapping Steve on the shoulder. “And no, this isn’t about you. Me and Y/N just want a house, something with a yard, and we’ve been thinking about the future. Boston just felt right.”
“The future, huh?” Steve said, his lips curving into a thoughtful smile. “Like a family?”
“Yeah,” Bucky said, his voice softening. “A family.”
Steve let out a low whistle, leaning against the counter. “Man, we’re getting old.”
“Hell yeah, we are,” Bucky replied with a laugh.
Steve chuckled, shaking his head. “Feels like just yesterday we were sneaking out at night, getting into fights over the stupidest shit.”
“Like that time you dared Y/N to climb the water tower, and she actually did it,” Bucky said, laughing. “She was halfway up before the cops showed up, and we had to book it.”
Steve groaned, covering his face with a hand. “God, I’ll never forget that. She was fearless. Still is.”
Bucky grinned, his eyes softening. “Yeah, she is.”
Steve glanced at him, his expression turning contemplative. “You’ve got something good, Buck. She’s… she’s one of a kind.”
Bucky nodded, his smile small but sincere. “I know. And for what it’s worth, I hope things with you and Nat work out. You deserve it, man.”
Steve looked away, a faint blush creeping up his neck. “She really is something,” he repeated quietly.
Bucky clapped him on the back, his tone lighter. “So, when’s this date?”
“Tomorrow night,” Steve admitted, rubbing the back of his neck. “You think she’ll say yes to a third one?”
Bucky smirked. “If you don’t screw it up, maybe."
They both laughed, the sound echoing in the empty apartment. For a moment, it felt like old times, the weight of life and change lifting just enough for them to breathe.
“Man, life,” Steve said after a moment, his voice soft with nostalgia.
“Life,” Bucky agreed, his gaze distant but warm.
-------
The wine glasses clinked together as you, Natasha, and Wanda settled into the plush couch in Natasha’s living room. The music was soft in the background, and the mood was light, filled with laughter and the warmth of wine. It had been too long since you’d all spent time like this—just the three of you, unwinding and sharing pieces of your lives.
You swirled your glass, grinning. “Speaking of life—”
“YOU’RE PREGNANT!” Wanda blurted out, her eyes wide with excitement.
Your mouth fell open in shock, nearly spilling your wine. “Excuse me?!”
Natasha burst into laughter, smacking Wanda’s arm. “Wanda! Oh my God, reel it in! Let the girl finish a sentence before you start naming her unborn child, she wouldn't be drinking if she was Wanda."
Wanda raised her hands in defense, her cheeks flushed. “I’m sorry! But look at her! She’s glowing!”
“Glowing?!” you repeated, glancing down at your stomach in horror. “Do I look pregnant? Oh my God, is it the wine? Am I bloated?” You started poking at your belly, your tone spiraling into a ramble. “Okay, so relationship weight is totally a thing, and Bucky does make the best pasta, but I’ve been good about not going overboard! Besides, doesn’t sex burn calories? We’ve been doing plenty of that—”
Natasha was nearly doubled over, her laughter loud and unrestrained. “Stop, stop! Oh my God, you’re killing me.”
Wanda was laughing now too, shaking her head frantically. “No, no! It’s not like that. I just meant you have that look, you know? You’re happy. Content.”
You let out a dramatic sigh, clutching your chest. “Thank God. You really had me questioning everything for a second.” You paused, side-eyeing her. “But for the record, you should know better than to accuse someone holding a glass of wine of being pregnant.”
Wanda giggled. “Noted.”
Natasha wiped tears of laughter from her eyes. “Alright, Miss Glow. What were you going to say?”
You straightened in your seat, taking a sip of wine for courage. “Well, I was going to say that Bucky and I are moving to Boston.”
Natasha froze, her wine glass halfway to her lips. Her eyes welled up immediately, and her voice cracked as she said, “What? Boston?”
“Yeah,” you said softly, glancing between them. “We found a house we love, and well, we can work from home, plus Bucky only has to come into the office once every 6 weeks and well that means guaranteed day to see everyone. Plus, we just… we want to start fresh. Somewhere new.”
Natasha set her wine glass down carefully, and then, much to your surprise, she started crying. “I’m so happy for you,” she said, her voice thick with emotion. “I really am. But first Sam, then Steve moving upstate, and now you and Bucky… it’s just—I’m going to miss you both so much.”
Your heart ached at the sight of her tears, and you reached out, wrapping an arm around her shoulders. “Nat, we’re not going anywhere far. Boston isn’t the moon, and you’ll always have a place with us. Always.”
Wanda hadn’t said anything yet, her expression unusually quiet. You turned to her, concern tightening in your chest. “Wanda? Are you okay?”
She sighed heavily, setting her glass down as well. “I’ve been meaning to tell you both something, actually.” She hesitated, her voice soft. “At the end of the year, I’m moving back home.”
“What?!” you and Natasha said in unison, both of you sitting up straighter.
“My work contract is up,” Wanda explained, her tone bittersweet. “And I decided not to renew it. It’s been amazing here, but I think it’s time for me to go back. Be closer to family.”
The room was silent for a moment, the weight of her words settling in. And then, as if by unspoken agreement, the three of you huddled together in the middle of the couch, your arms wrapped around each other tightly.
“I’m so proud of you both,” Natasha said through her tears. “But this really fucking sucks. This feels like the end of an era."
Wanda laughed weakly, her own tears spilling over. “I know. But we’ll always have this. We’ll always have each other.”
“And road trips,” you added, your voice wobbly. “So many road trips, and Nat its just the beginning of so many new wonderful chapters."
The three of you stayed like that for a long time, holding each other and crying—tears of sadness, of joy, of the inevitable changes that life brought. It wasn’t the end, not really. Just a new chapter. But saying goodbye to the comfort of what you had now still hurt, and none of you pretended otherwise.
“You’re both stuck with me,” Natasha said finally, sniffling. “No matter where we are.”
“Always,” you and Wanda echoed, squeezing her tighter.
----
Bucky and you stood by the moving truck, the last few boxes stacked neatly inside. It was surreal seeing the apartment building that had been your home for years now reduced to a memory. The truck loomed large, a bittersweet symbol of everything changing. Natasha, Wanda, and Steve were there, huddled together on the sidewalk, their expressions a mix of pride and sadness.
Natasha was the first to approach, her arms crossed as if trying to keep her emotions in check. “So, this is it,” she said softly, her voice tinged with emotion.
You nodded, swallowing the lump in your throat. “Yeah. This is it.”
She pulled you into a tight hug, her usual sarcastic edge melting away. “I’m gonna miss you, you know that?” she murmured, her voice cracking.
Tears stung your eyes as you hugged her back just as fiercely. “I’m gonna miss you too, Nat. But you’ll come visit. And we’ll visit you.”
She pulled back, her hands gripping your shoulders as she smiled through watery eyes. “You better. And if I don’t get weekly updates, I’m coming to Boston to drag them out of you myself.”
Wanda came next, a bouquet of wildflowers in her hand that she pressed into your arms. “For your new home,” she said with a small, sad smile. “You’ll make it beautiful, just like you always do.”
You hugged her tightly, the scent of lavender and roses filling the air. “Thank you, Wanda. For everything.”
Bucky and Steve were nearby, their conversation quieter but no less meaningful. Steve clapped a hand on Bucky’s shoulder, his expression calm but reflective. “You’re gonna do great, Buck,” he said. “Both of you are.”
Bucky nodded, his voice low. “Thanks, man. And… I hope things work out with Nat. You deserve it.”
Steve looked down for a moment, his lips curving into a faint smile. “We’ll see. One step at a time.”
When it was Steve’s turn to say goodbye to you, he hugged you tightly, lingering for just a moment longer than usual. “I’m soproud of you,” he said quietly, his voice thick. “And I’m gonna miss you like hell.”
You blinked back tears, squeezing him tightly. “I’m gonna miss you too, Stevie. But we’ll keep in touch. I promise.”
The goodbyes felt endless but fleeting all at once, each hug, each word of encouragement, making it harder to leave but also more meaningful. When you finally climbed into the passenger seat of the truck, Bucky squeezed your hand, his own eyes red but his smile steady.
“You ready?” he asked softly.
You nodded, your voice trembling. “Yeah. Let’s go.”
As the truck rumbled to life and pulled away from the curb, you looked back through the rearview mirror. Natasha was wiping her eyes with Wanda’s sleeve, and Steve had slung an arm around Natasha’s shoulder, pulling her close. The sight made your heart clench, but then you couldn’t help it—you squealed softly, clutching Bucky’s arm.
“What?” he asked, startled.
You pointed out the window. “Steve and Nat! Did you see that?”
Bucky glanced in the mirror and let out a chuckle. “Well, would you look at that? Those two are finally figuring it out.”
Your laugh bubbled out, mixing with the tears still on your cheeks. “About damn time.”
As the city skyline faded in the distance, the weight of leaving was tempered by the excitement of what lay ahead. The road stretched endlessly before you, and Bucky reached over, lacing his fingers with yours.
“Road trip playlist?” he asked, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.
You laughed, reaching for your phone. “You mean the one I specifically made for this drive?”
“Of course you did,” he teased. “Let’s hear it.”
#bucky barnes x reader#bucky barnes fanfiction#bucky x reader#bucky barnes#bucky barnes x y/n#sebastian stan x reader#bucky x you#bucky barnes fanfic#bucky barnes angst#bucky x y/n#fluffy bucky barnes x reader#bucky barnes x reader fluff#bucky barnes x you#bucky barnes au#bucky barnes ff
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❤ This summer, love is in the air! ❤
We are teaming up with eleven other talented indie otome developers to bring you the Mystery & Magic Otome Bundle on itch.io and Steam, a curated list of games celebrating magic, mystery, and romance.
Be sure to check out these spellbinding games (direct links and game summaries available below the cut):
Thorn for the Villain by Antares: Itch
"An office lady is reincarnated as Teresa von Ambrose, originally a spriteless extra character in the obscure otome game 'Eternal Blessing of the Stars,' where most of the endings end up with Asmodia Kingdom in shambles one way or another. Armed with knowledge of the game's future, Teresa decides to intervene and erase the event that triggered the beginning of the original story."
Save the Villainess by @bestlaidplansproductions: Steam | Itch
"Some people have pets. You have a romance novel villainess. Guide your villainess through an animated visual novel with menacing manors, mysteries, (wo)men, and murder to see if you can Save the Villainess."
Lost in Limbo by @ravenstargames: Itch
"Torn away from your peaceful life and thrown into a world of danger and deceit, you are at the mercy of the Seven Sovereigns of Limbo, almighty gods that have sworn to be your protectors...as long as you prove yourself useful. As the consequences of a plan set in motion long ago start to unveil, will love be the key to your freedom, or the first chapter of your downfall?"
The Good People by @moiraimyths: Steam | Itch
"Play as a tenant farmer from mid-19th century Ireland, whose path becomes inexplicably entwined in fairy affairs after getting robbed by the roadside and lured into the mythic and war-torn world of Tír na nÓg: A once unified land, now divided into the Seelie and Unseelie Courts. Will you escape and return home with your stolen belongings? Or does fate have something else in mind?"
Alaris by @crescencestudio: Steam | Itch
"A global crisis that only continues to escalate. A dangerous run-in with a shadowy stranger. And a mysterious word that won't stop gnawing at you. How does everything tie together? And what role could you possibly play in all of this? Enter a world of magic—of Fae and Dragon."
Sigh of the Abyss by Rascal Devworks: Steam | Itch
"You have been chained to a stranger, a boy foolish—or brave—enough to flee the gilded cage where magi are kept docile and pliant. The curse will kill you both unless you find a way to break it. Anyone else would already be dead, but not you—for you hear the ancient voice of the Abyss, and have been blessed—or cursed—with powers dark and terrible."
Obscura by @rottenraccoons: Steam | Itch
"There's a marketplace under the mountain where anything can be bought and sold. Visitors wear masks to become faceless strangers. It's home to the unscrupulous, the outcast, and the desperate. You're one of the desperate. Strangers with their own secrets and ambitions can show you ways through the market. They'll guide you to your goal, but don't trust them to have your best interests at heart."
Mask - Beyond Lies by Kakera: Itch
"As you are transported to another world, a masked person guides you through the day to the exit to go back to your world. But will it really be this easy ? Go through the story of each love interest and discover their secrets, and so much more. Each choices might make you discover the darkest secret of their world. Are you ready to do everything to go back to your own world ? Will you ever go back ?"
Snow White Ashes by @endys: Steam | Itch
"One winter night, you find a hunter in the woods: A man so warm and charming you feel as if you've known him all your life. But appearances can be deceiving. You'd know that well, wouldn't you?"
The Silent Kingdom by @luckycatotome: Steam | Itch
"Place yourself in the role of Princess Erinys, whose kingdom has fallen under the yoke of a sorrowful curse. In order to save everything you have ever known and loved, you’ll have to stand against the entire world - and even defy the Goddess herself. How much weight will a withered kingdom burden your soul?"
Dual Chroma by @galengames: Steam | Itch
"You, a bright young scholar, have finally arrived at the Palace to fulfill your lifelong dream—to serve the Imperial Family as the newest advisor to the Second Prince. The future finally looks bright… until the vile creatures of centuries past return. Thrown into the epicenter of a new epic tale, you and Prince Keldrannon face impossible odds. As ancient forces long thought to be vanquished threaten to raze these peaceful lands, you must work together with the Prince to discover their origins and save the Empire. With each choice you make, the more it is revealed that history may not be what it seems. How deep does your connection to the Prince run?"
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At BSMe2e, we believe in empowering individuals to monetize your passion. Whether you are an artist, writer, content creator, or skilled professional, our Talent Marketplace is designed to help you turn your passion into a profitable business. With a user-friendly platform and diverse opportunities, you can showcase your expertise, connect with clients, and grow your income on your terms. BSMe2e provides the perfect environment for you to pursue your passion while maximizing your success. Join us today and start transforming your passion into a sustainable career.
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BSME2E Skills Sharing: Empowering Communities Across the USA
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Join BSME2E to foster a culture of skills sharing, connecting people across the USA to unlock their full potential.BSME2E for a dynamic Skills Sharing platform in the USA, where you can connect, learn, and grow together. Share your expertise and acquire new skills today.
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Key Features of Talent Marketplace Software
Talent Marketplace Software offers robust features for seamless talent acquisition. Its key elements include skill matching algorithms, project tracking, and user-friendly interfaces, ensuring efficient collaboration between employers and freelancers. With advanced filtering options and real-time communication tools, this software streamlines the hiring process, fostering a dynamic and productive marketplace for talent.
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