#Water Well Pump Installer
Explore tagged Tumblr posts
Text
A Simple Guide to Renewing Your Texas Cosmetology License and Water Well Pump Installer Courses
As a licensed professional in Texas, maintaining your certification is essential to continue offering top-quality services to your clients. Whether you're a cosmetologist or a water well pump installer, it's crucial to stay up to date with license renewal requirements and continuing education courses. At 1st Choice CE, we’re here to help you streamline the renewal process and fulfill your continuing education needs.

Texas Cosmetology License Renewal
As a licensed cosmetologist in Texas, your license must be renewed every two years to remain in good standing. The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) oversees the process, and you must complete certain requirements to keep your license active.
Key Steps for Texas Cosmetology License Renewal:
Complete Continuing Education: Texas cosmetologists are required to complete 4 hours of continuing education (CE) from a TDLR-approved provider like 1st Choice CE.
These hours typically include:
1 hour dedicated to sanitation.
3 hours covering various aspects such as laws, rules, and best practices in the cosmetology industry.
Submit Your Renewal Application: You can renew your Texas cosmetology license online through the TDLR website. The fee for renewal is usually around $50, though it may vary depending on the type of license.
Check for Late Fees: If you miss your renewal date, you can still renew your license, but a late fee will be applied. It's always better to renew on time to avoid additional charges and interruptions to your practice.
Processing Time: Typically, once you submit your renewal application and complete the CE requirements, your license will be processed and renewed within a few business days.
At 1st Choice CE, we offer convenient online courses that allow you to complete your Texas cosmetology license renewal requirements from the comfort of your home or office. Our courses are TDLR-approved, affordable, and easy to follow, helping you stay compliant with the latest industry standards.
Water Well Pump Installer Renewal Courses in Texas
Water well pump installers in Texas are also required to renew their licenses every two years. As with cosmetologists, the renewal process involves completing continuing education courses and submitting your renewal application to TDLR.

Water Well Pump Installer Renewal Requirements:
Continuing Education: Licensed water well pump installers in Texas must complete 4 hours of continuing education from an approved provider. These courses cover important topics, such as:
Installation standards
Pump maintenance and safety
State regulations and compliance
Renewal Application: Similar to the cosmetology license, the renewal process for water well pump installers can be completed online through the TDLR website. The renewal fee is generally around $75, depending on your specific license category.
Stay Informed: It’s important to stay informed about any updates or changes to Texas laws that may affect water well pump installation. The continuing education courses offered by 1st Choice CE are designed to keep you up to date on the latest regulations and best practices.
Why Choose 1st Choice CE for Your License Renewal?
At 1st Choice CE, we understand the importance of maintaining your professional license, and we’re dedicated to providing high-quality, approved continuing education courses that meet the requirements of the TDLR.
Benefits of Choosing Us:
TDLR-Approved Courses: All our courses are fully approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
Convenience: Complete your courses online, at your own pace, from any device.
Affordable Pricing: We offer competitive prices to help you meet your requirements without breaking the bank.
Expert Instruction: Our courses are designed by industry professionals to ensure you're learning the most relevant and current information.
Whether you’re a cosmetologist needing to renew your Texas license or a water well pump installer looking for renewal courses, 1st Choice CE is your trusted partner in continuing education.
Conclusion
Visit 1st Choice CE today to enroll in our texas cosmetology license renewal or Water Well Pump Installer Renewal Courses Texas. With our flexible, online courses, staying licensed has never been easier.

#texas cosmetology license renewal#Water Well Pump Installer Renewal Courses Texas#texas#cosmetology#license#renewal#Water Well Pump Installer#Renewal Courses Texas#Renewal Courses#Texas#Water Well Pump Installer Renewal
1 note
·
View note
Text
Stay Ahead with 1st Choice: Plumbing Renewal Courses in Florida and Water Well Pump Installer Renewal Courses in Texas
As a licensed professional in the plumbing or water well pump installation industry, maintaining your credentials is crucial to staying ahead in your field. With evolving regulations, advanced technologies, and new industry standards, it's essential to keep your knowledge and skills up to date. At 1st Choice, we offer comprehensive renewal courses designed to help you meet these requirements effortlessly. Our courses are tailored for professionals in Florida and Texas, focusing on Plumbing Renewal Courses Florida and Water Well Pump Installer Renewal Courses Texas. Let's explore why these courses are vital and how 1st Choice can help you achieve your career goals.

Why Renewal Courses are Essential
Professional renewal courses are not just a legal requirement; they are an opportunity to stay current with the latest industry trends, technologies, and regulations. These courses provide valuable insights into new techniques and best practices, ensuring that you deliver top-quality service to your clients. Additionally, they offer a platform to network with other professionals and experts in the field, fostering professional growth and development.
Plumbing Renewal Courses in Florida
Florida's plumbing industry is dynamic, with frequent updates to codes and regulations. Our Plumbing Renewal Courses in Florida are specifically designed to help you stay compliant with the latest state requirements. Here's what you can expect:
Comprehensive Curriculum: Our courses cover all essential topics, including state plumbing codes, safety regulations, and modern plumbing technologies. You'll gain a thorough understanding of the current standards and best practices.
Expert Instructors: Learn from experienced professionals who bring real-world insights and practical knowledge to the classroom. Our instructors are industry veterans committed to your success.
Flexible Learning Options: We understand that busy professionals need flexibility. That's why we offer online courses that you can complete at your own pace, along with in-person workshops for hands-on experience.
Certification and Credits: Upon completing our renewal courses, you'll receive the necessary certification and continuing education credits required for license renewal in Florida.
Water Well Pump Installer Renewal Courses in Texas
For water well pump installers in Texas, staying current with industry standards is critical. Our Water Well Pump Installer Renewal Courses in Texas are crafted to ensure you meet the state's renewal requirements while enhancing your skills and knowledge.
Detailed Course Content: Our curriculum includes essential topics such as Texas water well regulations, pump installation techniques, and maintenance best practices. Stay informed about the latest industry advancements and regulatory changes.
Seasoned Professionals: Our instructors are industry experts with years of experience in water well pump installation. They provide practical insights and guidance to help you excel in your career.
Convenient Scheduling: With both online and in-person options, our courses are designed to fit your busy schedule. Choose the learning format that works best for you and complete your renewal requirements with ease.
Accredited Certification: After completing the course, you'll receive accredited certification and continuing education credits, ensuring you remain compliant with Texas licensing requirements.
Why Choose 1st Choice?
1st Choice is dedicated to providing top-quality education and training for professionals in the plumbing and water well pump installation industries. Here’s why you should choose us:
Proven Track Record: We have a history of successfully helping professionals meet their renewal requirements and advance their careers.
Comprehensive Support: Our team is here to support you every step of the way, from enrollment to course completion and beyond.
Affordable Pricing: We offer competitive pricing to ensure that continuing education is accessible to all professionals.
User-Friendly Platform: Our online learning platform is easy to navigate, making it simple for you to complete your courses and track your progress.
Conclusion
Don't wait until the last minute to renew your license. Enroll in our Plumbing Renewal Courses in Florida or Water Well Pump Installer Renewal Courses in Texas today and stay ahead in your profession. Visit our website or contact us to learn more about our course offerings and how we can help you achieve your career goals. At 1st Choice, your professional growth and compliance are our top priorities. Join our community of skilled professionals and keep your credentials up to date with ease!

#Plumbing Renewal Courses Florida#Water Well Pump Installer Renewal Courses Texas#Water Well Pump Installer#Water Well Pump Installer Renewal#Water Well#Pump Installer#Renewal Courses Texas#Plumbing Renewal Courses#Renewal Courses Florida#Plumbing#plumbers near me#plumber#plumbing services#water heater
1 note
·
View note
Text
in the year 2024 my dad is finally admitting that the well, which i had to do fundraising for to get enough money to fix it with a new pump when he already spent what money he had to spare for the month on a new one two weeks prior to that, might be broken? that's so crazy! who could have forseen this!
#i knew it was unlikely with that fundraiser to get the 600/700 i would need for the down payment to move into the apartment. but we did get#the 300 needed for the pump so it was a big relief there to have water again#it still breaks every so often but not as frequently. but it's still no good to have to spend that much that often#not that it's cheap to get a new well dug and installed but with the amount we've put into this one in the past four years it would have#been enough for it :']#the good news is it has my mom wanting to move. related to other things with aging as well but it's one of the reasons#tldr we might be moving in several years which would be nice.
4 notes
·
View notes
Text
Comprehensive Water Solutions with All Water Services of Central Florida
Introduction
Water is the essence of life and a critical component of daily living, from household activities to agricultural needs. At All Water Services of Central Florida, we understand the importance of clean, reliable water systems. With a dedication to quality and expertise, we specialize in well drilling, pump repairs, water filtration systems, and water softeners, ensuring every Central Florida resident enjoys access to pure and dependable water.
Whether you're searching for “well drilling near me” or need professional assistance with “pump repairs & installation,” our experienced team is here to meet all your water service needs.
Reliable Well Drilling Near You
When it comes to accessing underground water sources, the expertise of a skilled well-drilling team is invaluable. Our well drilling services provide customized solutions tailored to your specific needs.
We use advanced technology and adhere to strict safety standards to ensure wells are drilled efficiently and securely. Whether you're establishing a new residential water source or upgrading your agricultural water supply, our team delivers dependable results. Searching for “well drilling near me” has never been easier—All Water Services of Central Florida is your trusted partner for all well-related projects.
Professional Pump Repairs & Installation
A reliable pump system is the lifeline of any water well. If your water pressure drops or your pump stops functioning, it can disrupt your daily life. At All Water Services of Central Florida, we specialize in pump repairs & installation to keep your water system operating seamlessly.
Our technicians are trained to handle various types of water pumps, from submersible models to jet pumps. Whether it's repairing a damaged pump or installing a new system, our experts ensure the job is done right the first time. With a focus on efficiency and long-term reliability, we help you maintain an uninterrupted water supply.
Advanced Water Filtration Systems
Clean water is essential for health and convenience. Our water filtration systems are designed to remove contaminants and improve water quality for residential, commercial, and agricultural use.
We offer a range of solutions, including reverse osmosis systems, carbon filters, and sediment filtration. Our team evaluates your specific water quality needs to recommend the most effective filtration system. By addressing impurities such as chlorine, heavy metals, and sediments, we help Central Florida families enjoy safe and great-tasting water straight from their taps.
Effective Well Repair Near You
A malfunctioning well can lead to significant disruptions in your water supply. If you're looking for “well repair near me,” trust All Water Services of Central Florida to provide prompt and effective solutions.
Our well repair services address a wide range of issues, including reduced water flow, contamination, and mechanical failures. We utilize advanced diagnostic tools to identify problems and perform precise repairs, ensuring your well operates efficiently. Our goal is to restore your water source quickly and reliably, minimizing downtime and inconvenience.
Premium Water Softeners for Hard Water Solutions
Hard water can cause numerous issues, from clogged pipes to reduced appliance efficiency. At All Water Services of Central Florida, we offer top-quality water softeners that combat hard water problems effectively.
Our water softening systems use advanced ion-exchange technology to remove minerals like calcium and magnesium, which cause water hardness. By installing a water softener, you can extend the lifespan of your plumbing, improve appliance performance, and enjoy softer skin and hair. We provide tailored solutions to meet your specific water softening needs.
Why Choose All Water Services of Central Florida?
Experienced Professionals: Our team has years of experience in the water services industry, providing expert solutions for all water-related challenges.
Comprehensive Services: From well drilling to water filtration systems, we cover every aspect of water management.
State-of-the-Art Equipment: We utilize the latest technology to deliver efficient and reliable services.
Customer-Centric Approach: Your satisfaction is our priority. We ensure timely and high-quality service for every project.
Local Expertise: As a Central Florida-based company, we understand the unique water needs of the region.
How We Serve Central Florida
At All Water Services of Central Florida, we are proud to serve a diverse range of clients across the region. Our services are tailored to meet the needs of residential homeowners, commercial businesses, and agricultural operations.
Whether you require well drilling for a new construction project, need to install a water filtration system for cleaner water, or are searching for reliable “well repair near me,” we are here to assist. Our team is committed to delivering exceptional service that exceeds your expectations.
The Importance of Water System Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your water system ensures its longevity and efficiency. At All Water Services of Central Florida, we offer maintenance plans to keep your well, pump, filtration system, and water softener in optimal condition.
Routine inspections and timely repairs prevent costly breakdowns and ensure your water system continues to meet your needs. Our maintenance services are a proactive way to protect your investment and enjoy uninterrupted access to clean water.
Sustainable Water Solutions
In addition to providing top-notch water services, we are committed to sustainability. Our team focuses on environmentally friendly practices, such as efficient water use and responsible well drilling methods.
By implementing sustainable solutions, we help protect Central Florida’s precious water resources for future generations. Choosing All Water Services of Central Florida means partnering with a company that values the environment as much as you do.
0 notes
Text
Ensuring Safe and Sustainable Water Access with Well Installation in Monkton
Access to clean water is a fundamental need for every household. In Monkton, homeowners understand the importance of having a reliable source for their water needs. Well installation in Monkton is not just about ensuring that there's a steady flow of H2O into your home; it's about guaranteeing the quality of that water, its accessibility, and the longevity of the system that delivers it. This article will explore how local professionals meet these crucial needs through comprehensive services including well installation, water quality testing, plumbing services, heating solutions, and maintenance of well pumps.
The Importance of Professional Well Installation
When considering well installation in Monkton, it is essential to entrust this task to knowledgeable professionals. Proper installation affects everything from the taste and safety of your drinking water to your system's efficiency and durability. An improperly installed well can be susceptible to contaminants or may fail prematurely, leading to costly repairs or even replacement. Professionals ensure that all local codes are met and that the best materials are used for long-lasting performance.
Maintaining Water Quality
Once a well is established, monitoring its water quality is paramount for health and enjoyment. A range of factors can affect your water supply including minerals, bacteria, and environmental contaminants which could seep into groundwater. Regularly scheduled water quality tests performed by qualified service providers help detect any irregularities early on. If an issue arises, immediate action can be taken to address it – perhaps through filtration or treatment systems – ensuring your family always has access to safe drinking water.
Comprehensive Plumbing Services
Plumbing services go hand-in-hand with well installation in Monkton as they ensure that once your well is pumping water, it reaches you effectively. From fixing leaks to installing new fixtures or maintaining existing systems, skilled plumbers keep everything running smoothly. They also provide crucial insights into how you can improve your system’s efficiency or upgrade parts for better functionality.
Heating Systems Integration
For many homes in Monkton, integrating heating systems with their plumbing infrastructure is a necessity due to seasonal changes. Whether you're looking at radiant floor heating or central heating solutions tied to your hot water supply, experienced service providers design systems tailored to both your household’s needs and the specifics of your well-water system.
Well Pump Service And Maintenance
The heart of any effective well system lies within its pump—this mechanism draws water from underground sources up into your home. Regular maintenance by professionals ensures not only consistent operation but also helps extend the life of your pump significantly through timely repairs or replacements as needed.
Why Choose Local Services for Your Well Needs?
Opting for local expertise when considering well installation in Monkton offers several advantages over outsourcing the job further away. Local providers have firsthand knowledge about region-specific considerations such as soil composition and average groundwater levels—factors that heavily influence decisions during planning stages like site selection or depth determination for drilling wells.
Moreover, building a relationship with local experts means you have quick access to assistance should issues arise—whether routine maintenance checks or emergency call-outs due to sudden problems with your plumbing or heating related directly back to the functioning of your well.
In conclusion, ensuring safe and sustainable access to water via a personal well requires more than just digging a hole in the ground—it demands careful planning followed by expert execution across multiple related disciplines including plumbing and heating integration as applicable per individual circumstances. It's about creating a harmonious system where each element works together seamlessly providing peace of mind knowing that every time you turn on a tap inside your home in Monkton—a pristine flow awaits ready for use due entirely because you chose wisely when selecting who would handle every phase connected directly back towards achieving this very outcome starting most importantly with the professional well installation itself!
Liberty Pure Solutions, Inc.
17052 Troyer Rd, Monkton, MD, 21111, USA
410-936-3455
#well repair near#well water pump repair#pump installation near me#well repair monkton#well repair contractor monkton
1 note
·
View note
Text
Simplify Your Continuing Education with 1st Choice CE: Online Renewals for Plumbing Contractors and Water Well Installers
In today’s fast-paced world, convenience is key, especially when it comes to managing your professional credentials. At 1st Choice CE, we understand the importance of staying current with your certifications and licenses while also balancing a busy schedule. Whether you're a Plumbing Contractor Online Renewal Florida or a Water Well Installer Renewal Texas, our online renewal courses are designed to streamline the process and ensure you meet your state’s requirements with ease.

Plumbing Contractor Online Renewal Florida: Seamless and Efficient
For plumbing contractors in Florida, maintaining your license is crucial for staying compliant and continuing to serve your clients effectively. Our online renewal courses are tailored to meet the specific requirements set forth by the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR). Here’s how our service can benefit you:
Convenience: Access your course materials from anywhere, anytime. No need to adjust your schedule or travel to a physical location. Our platform allows you to complete your coursework at your own pace.
Up-to-Date Content: Our courses are regularly updated to reflect the latest codes, regulations, and industry best practices, ensuring you have the most current information to pass your renewal exam.
User-Friendly Interface: Navigate through your course materials effortlessly with our intuitive online platform. We provide all the resources you need to successfully complete your renewal.
Certification of Completion: Once you complete your course, you’ll receive a certificate of completion that you can easily submit to the DBPR for your renewal.
Water Well Installer Renewal Texas:
Stay Compliant with Ease In Texas, water well installers are required to renew their licenses periodically to ensure they adhere to the state’s rigorous standards. At 1st Choice CE, we offer specialized online renewal courses that cater to the needs of water well professionals. Here’s why our courses stand out:
Accessibility: Complete your renewal course from the comfort of your home or office. Our online platform is designed for flexibility, allowing you to fit your education into your busy schedule.
Comprehensive Coverage: Our courses cover all necessary topics, including state regulations, safety protocols, and best practices for water well installation, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your renewal.
Interactive Learning: Engage with interactive materials that enhance your learning experience. Our courses include quizzes and practical examples to help you grasp essential concepts effectively.
Quick and Simple Certification: After finishing your course, you’ll receive a certificate of completion that you can use to expedite your license renewal process with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR).
Why Choose 1st Choice CE?
1st Choice CE is dedicated to providing high-quality continuing education solutions for professionals across various fields. Our commitment to excellence ensures that you receive top-notch education that meets state requirements while offering the flexibility you need.
Conclusion
With our user-friendly online courses, you can renew your plumbing contractor license in Florida or your water well installer license in Texas with minimal hassle. Invest in your professional development and maintain your credentials with confidence. Ready to get started? Visit our website to explore our course offerings and experience the convenience of online renewal with 1st Choice CE today!

#Plumbing Contractor Online Renewal Florida#Water Well Installer Renewal Texas#Plumbing Contractor#Online Renewal Florida#Water Well Installer#Renewal Texas#https://1stchoice-ce.com/courses/checkout/florida/14-hour-plumbing-contractor-online-renewal-florida#https://www.1stchoice-ce.com/courses/index/water-well-pump-installer
1 note
·
View note
Text
A Customer's Delight!
Seamless Shower/Tub Combo Faucet Installation & Drain Cleaning: A Customer's Delight!
Our customer from Elgin shares his experience :
I had the pleasure of availing the shower/tub combo faucet installation and drain cleaning services from Emergency Plumbing and I couldn't be more thrilled with the results! From the moment I reached out to Emergency Plumbing, I was impressed by their prompt response and seamless scheduling process. The team arrived right on time and wasted no time getting to work. Their efficiency was truly commendable, and before I knew it, my new faucet was installed with precision and expertise. What truly set Emergency Plumbing apart was their unwavering commitment to quality. Every step of the installation process was carried out with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a flawless finish that exceeded my expectations. Not only does my new faucet look fantastic, but it functions flawlessly, thanks to their expertise in proper alignment and leak-proof connections. In addition to the faucet installation.
I also opted for drain cleaning services, and I'm delighted with the results. My drains are now free-flowing and clear of any blockages, thanks to the thorough cleaning performed by the team. What's even more impressive is Emergency Plumbing's commitment to affordability without compromising on quality. Their pricing was incredibly competitive, and there were no hidden fees or surprises along the way. It's refreshing to find a company that delivers top-notch service without breaking the bank.
Overall, my experience with Emergency Plumbing was exceptional. From their friendly customer service to their unparalleled craftsmanship, they exceeded my expectations in every aspect. If you're in need of shower/tub combo faucet installation or drain cleaning services, or other plumbing repairs, look no further than Emergency Plumbing. Trust me; you won't be disappointed! Thank you, Emergency Plumbing, for a job well done!
Call us today for all your plumbing needs, from repairs to installations, like water heaters, sump pumps, ejector pumps, new gas lines, faucets and garbage disposals, and much more.
Join our community of satisfied customers at Emergency Plumbing and experience excellent service and best prices.
#A Customer's Delight!#Seamless Shower/Tub Combo Faucet Installation & Drain Cleaning: A Customer's Delight!#Our customer from Elgin shares his experience :#I had the pleasure of availing the shower/tub combo faucet installation and drain cleaning services from Emergency Plumbing and I couldn'#I was impressed by their prompt response and seamless scheduling process. The team arrived right on time and wasted no time getting to work#and before I knew it#my new faucet was installed with precision and expertise. What truly set Emergency Plumbing apart was their unwavering commitment to qualit#ensuring a flawless finish that exceeded my expectations. Not only does my new faucet look fantastic#but it functions flawlessly#thanks to their expertise in proper alignment and leak-proof connections. In addition to the faucet installation.#I also opted for drain cleaning services#and I'm delighted with the results. My drains are now free-flowing and clear of any blockages#thanks to the thorough cleaning performed by the team. What's even more impressive is Emergency Plumbing's commitment to affordability with#and there were no hidden fees or surprises along the way. It's refreshing to find a company that delivers top-notch service without breakin#Overall#my experience with Emergency Plumbing was exceptional. From their friendly customer service to their unparalleled craftsmanship#they exceeded my expectations in every aspect. If you're in need of shower/tub combo faucet installation or drain cleaning services#or other plumbing repairs#look no further than Emergency Plumbing. Trust me; you won't be disappointed! Thank you#Emergency Plumbing#for a job well done!#Call us today for all your plumbing needs#from repairs to installations#like water heaters#sump pumps#ejector pumps#new gas lines#faucets and garbage disposals#and much more.#Join our community of satisfied customers at Emergency Plumbing and experience excellent service and best prices.
1 note
·
View note
Text


(reposting as I am unable to reblog the original.)
requested by @kodicraft
🔶 Rating: Partially Reliable 🔶
The Devils Hole is home to the endangered Devils Hole Pupfish.
From the National Park Service's page on Devils Hole: 'Devils Hole--a detached unit of Death Valley National Park--is habitat for the only naturally occurring population of the endangered Devils Hole Pupfish (Cyprinodon diabolis).'
The existence of the pupfish does prevent the pumping of groundwater in the area, after a legal battle. I am not sure this would apply to all mining.
From a High Country News article on the pupfish: 'The Cappaert case went all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court, testing the power of the Antiquities Act and the weight of the new Endangered Species Act. In 1976, the High Court affirmed the federal government’s right to maintain water levels sufficient to support the pupfish, even at the expense of water rights held by nearby ranchers.'
The habitat of this fish is incredibly small. However, it is slightly larger than suggested, as the fish swim at least 20m deep; the rock shelf referenced is the only place where the fish feed and spawn in the wild.
From the same National Park Service page: 'Although pupfish have been found as deep as 66 feet (20 m), the fish forage and spawn exclusively on a shallow rock shelf near the surface, feeding on the algae and diatoms found there.'
It is true that multiple conservation attempts have failed. Previous attempts to breed or crossbreed the fish have not been successful.
From a National Park Foundation article on the pupfish: 'Despite past efforts to create a similar artificial platform for the pupfish, as well as attempts to breed Devils Hole pupfish and hybrids in captivity, this small ledge remains the sole spawning and feeding shelf for the fish.'
I have not been able to find any references to 'assassination attempts'. One individual did threaten to pour pesticide into Devil's Hole, but it seems this was never attemped. If anyone can find anything on this, please let me know, but in the mean time I have to say this claim is unsubstantiated.
From a High Country News article on an incident of tresspassing and the pupfish: 'A Pahrump newspaper editor even threatened to throw the pesticide Rotenone into the sunken cave to “make the pupfish a moot point.”'
The fencing was initially installed after two people drowned, not after an assassination attempt. Later, more fencing and security was installed after three men drunkenly tresspassed and killed a pupfish.
From the same National Park Service page: 'Subsequently, the Hole was fenced after two divers drowned in its water.'
From a High Country News article on the incident of tresspassing : 'Since the incident, Devils Hole has become an even more formidable fortress. The Park Service capped its towering fences with additional barbed wire. The public can only view the sunken cave from a distance now, more than 20 feet above it. And inside the fenced viewing area are even more cameras, motion sensors and “No Trespassing” signs.'
There is a breeding program at Ash Meadows Facility, where scientists have attempted to mimic the natural habitat of the pupfish.
From a National Geographic article on the breeding attempts: 'And when they built the Ash Meadows facility, the scientists tried to create a mirror image of Devil’s Hole, which meant bringing in water, substrate, and algae from the natural environment.'
It is possible that a different research/breeding facility is being referred to, but the Ash Meadows Facility does not seem to have a secret location. In fact, the facility is open to visitors, according to their website.
I wont attempt to fact check whether the cave is haunted, but I can confirm that at least two people drowned and were not recovered from Devils Hole. Whilst the cave is not truly bottomless, the bottom has not yet been found.
From an SFGATE article on Devils Hole: 'When the bottom of Devils Hole is one day found, the skeletons of two brothers-in-law may finally be recovered, fathoms below the frolicking pupfish.'
The breeding program has been more successful in recent years. This may be due to the discovery that diving beetles were eating the eggs and larvae, and the beetle population in the artificial environment being controlled. (This fact was not included in the original post, but I thought it was cool.)
From a National Geographic article on the breeding attempts: 'As Feuerbacher watched the infrared footage, which can visualize objects in the dark, a tiny pupfish larva smaller than a peppercorn flitted into the camera’s frame. This was big news. When a population gets as low as that of the pupfish, every animal—wild or captive, larva or adult—is critical to the species’ survival.
“I was pretty excited to see there was reproduction going on in the tank, and I just watched it for a little bit,” says Feuerbacher, a fish biologist with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “Then I saw a beetle swim past.”
It began circling the fish, and closing in.
“Then it just dove in and basically tore the fish in half right while I was watching,” says Feuerbacher.
[...]
During the first beetle collection, facility manager Jennifer Gumm says they caught 500 beetles in three hours. And on the very next pupfish egg collection, which is done by leaving out pieces of carpet that the fish like to lay their eggs on, the team retrieved close to 40 pupfish eggs.
Before this, they had been lucky to find four or five pupfish eggs during a refuge collection. Usually, it was zero.'
3K notes
·
View notes
Text
Sweat

Declan O'Hara x f!reader
(little mention of Tag x Rupert)
~1k words, no real warnings - the 'c' word is used once.
While I wait for my man Jack Lowden to return from war (filming season 6 of Slow Horses), I thought I'd dip my little toe into a very short Declan O'Hara one-shot 😬
If you're reading The Escape Artist, fear not, the final TWO chapters are coming this week! Yes, of course I do have other prompts to get on with, but I was in spin class last night, and every time my instructor shouted, "Ride, ride, ride" all I saw was Declan 😅 The moustache would make a wonderful handle as well 🤭
Another bead of sweat drips from your forehead onto the towel.
“Ride, ride, ride, ride, don't stop ladies,” the instructor, an Adonis of a man, coaches you through the pumping music. Next to you, Taggie blows a stray curl out of her face.
“This is torture,” she hisses through gritted teeth.
She isn't wrong.
The newly installed ‘Bicycle Hub’ has raised eyebrows at the local leisure centre, with few expected to actually attend.
The Hub overlooks the squash courts, not that you'd know.
They were so filled with cigarette smoke you could hardly see a thing at all.
From the front row of bikes, you had a prime view looking down.
Usually older gentlemen with portly stomachs and red wine noses who were one play away from a heart attack.
“Oh look, it's daddy.” Taggie peers down. “And Rupert.”
Even through the glowing pink caused by the exercise class you can see her blush.
The two men look up and catch you watching them.
A real shame you couldn't lip read.
Not that they'd be saying anything about Tag, Rupert wouldn't dare in front of Declan.
You were fair game though.
Taggie waves but you don't dare break your rhythm on the bike for fear you'd fall right off.
“Concentrate, ladies,” Adonis warns. “Left, right, left, left, right, right. Stay with the beat, ride, ride, ride.”
You tear your eyes away from the squash court and look back at your bike, regretting it instantly.
“My legs are killing me,” you mutter, feeling your thighs burn.
You go back to looking at the squash game Declan and Rupert are playing, it looks more like they're trying to hit each other with the ball rather than play to the rules.
Each of them roaring with laughter whenever they make contact.
“I'm sure that's not how you're supposed to play,” Taggie grumbles.
“Could be worse, they could be just hitting each other with the racket,” you suggest.
Your breath comes in short gasps now, your stamina rapidly declining.
The rhythmic sounds of the squash ball combine with the squeak of running shoes, the beat of the music, and the hum of the fixed wheels of the bike.
A cacophony of sounds.
You find yourself watching their game more intently, it powers you through the changes in resistance on the bike.
You tilt your head to brush your earlobe against your shoulder and catch another drip of sweat.
As you do so, another works its way down the side of your neck and down into your cleavage.
“And down, catch your breath. Next, we're going to run,” Adonis tells the class.
You let your legs slow down a little and take the opportunity to run the towel over your face and take a long drink of water.
Your chest heaves.
As you put your water bottle back on the machine, you automatically look again at the squash court, this time catching Declan watching you.
You notice the quick lift of his eyebrow as he stares.
He licks his lips slowly, deliberately, and then smiles.
“OK ladies, stand up -”
“On the bike?”
“Yes, madame, it's time to run.”
“I don't understand, I'll fall off!” You think it's Valerie Jones who's protesting, but you've yet to look away from Declan.
Holding his gaze, you do as Adonis asks and you stand up, straightening your legs on the pedals.
Even from this distance you can tell where he's looking.
Your tight lycra crop top pulls your breasts together and his eyes are drawn like a magnet.
When you lean forward on the bike, he wipes his hand over his mouth.
The next track starts building in momentum and so do you, each rotation of the wheels making you bounce a little more vigorously.
Neither of you has looked away yet, goodness knows where Rupert has gone.
Taggie is mercifully distracted, a tight frown of concentration on her face.
There's a wicked glint in Declan's eye and you tilt your head to the side, a silent question.
Whatever he's about to do in response, he doesn't.
Rupert is back, distracting him, talking to him.
He looks away at last, but you can tell it's under duress.
“Thank you ladies, great class for today!” Adonis is off the bike and leading his own round of applause.
You roll your eyes at Taggie and grimace.
“He's single! So I've heard,” she tells you with a giggle.
“No thanks, his biceps are huge! He'd suffocate me!”
You leave the class very much in need of a shower and as you make your way down to the changing rooms, you pass the squash courts.
Taggie's looking out for Rupert, you can tell.
Desperate for a moment alone with him.
You spot him first, by the water fountain, and nudge her in his direction.
His face lights up at the sight of her.
"Looks like you ladies have been getting all hot and sweaty,” he grins slyly.
You leave them to talk, and open the glass door to the court.
Taggie and Rupert are in full view of most of the leisure centre so he only has his words to charm with.
Inside the court, Declan has been watching you through the glass.
“Water?” You offer, holding out your bottle.
“Prefer whiskey,” he grins.
“So do I.”
“I'd also prefer an exercise that'll leave us both breathless," he says quietly.
There's a line you're about to cross but neither of you seems to care.
“So do I.” You repeat equally quietly.
“Sure I can find a much more comfortable seat for you as well.”
The lilt of his accent runs over your body.
He looks through the door but Taggie and Rupert are out of sight, for once, he doesn't seem to care.
He takes a step towards you, as if he's about to whisper in your ear.
Instead, he drags his tongue from your throat to your earlobe.
“You taste delicious.”
Your power of speech is non-existent.
Your hands shake as the adrenaline from the class and from his proximity mingle together.
He kisses your temple, your hairline damp with sweat.
“I think it's time to put a stop to this little game, don't you?” he murmurs.
You can only nod as your body trembles and your cunt clenches.
And then you hear Rupert in the atrium outside.
Declan takes a measured step away from you as Taggie arrives, though neither of you can stop staring.
“Ugh, let's go, I feel disgusting,” she pulls a face. Rupert clearly thinks quite the opposite.
“Yes, let's. Enjoy your game, gentlemen.” You smile brightly.
“I certainly am,” Declan responds, the low rumble of his laughter following you from the court.
You can still feel the heat of his stare as you pile into the car to leave.
You can still feel the weight of his body on yours as you climb into bed that night.
#declan o'hara smut#declan o'hara x reader#declan o'hara#rivals x reader#rivals fanfiction#rivals#rivals 2024#rivals disney+#rivals hulu#declan o’hara smut#declan o’hara x reader#declan o’hara#aidan turner
387 notes
·
View notes
Text
Violet Times
Short Sevika Smut Blurb

No amount of planning could have prepared you for this. Your hand shakes as it pulls the key out the third lock on the door. You'd been with your wife for so long and she had trained you for this day, yet with her discipline, and unusually gentle nature towards only you, you'd never really expected this to happen.
The door knob jiggles, a few bangs, and then silence. You're almost worried enough to check, almost. You remember her telling you not to fall for her little tricks. She’d use your empathy against you, whatever it took to get into that room.
“Angel, it's okay…the shimmers almost worn off. I just want to sleep the rest off.”
You’re still frozen sitting on the floor in complete shock “Then sleep on the couch, there's a blanket and everything…”
It's not clear if she's aware you can hear the feral growl she lets out from the other side. “You know my back doesn't do well out there-”
“Then go find a hotel to stay at, you know as well as I do you weren't supposed to come home this early, and definitely not…like this.” You try to avoid saying anything that could trigger her, yet she's still in the hallway, her deep voice trying to pull you out of safety.
“How cruel~”
The doorknob begins to shake again and it takes a second to recognize what she's doing.
“Sevika no! Stop it, you've got so much shimmer in your system you are acting insane!” You shout in a mild panic. Your hands attempt to stop the handle from shaking back n forth but it's not long before you hear a click. The handle turns successfully but the door doesn't open. Courtesy of the two other locks Sevika installed herself while in her right mid. “Put that damn bobby pin away and get the hell out!” When she notices how close to the door you are her hand shoots underneath it, attempting to grab your ankle, she only narrowly misses and you kick her away.
“Y/N-” your name falls breathy from her lips. “I just wanna see my sweet wife…wanna make her feel good.”
“...Should have thought of that when you caught me earlier, if you wanted me that badly you shouldn't have been so easily baited into letting me go.” You can't help but mock the situation. For all the drugs she had in her system, she still couldn't help but listen to your every word when you batted your eyelashes at her. “Now politely piss off until you've calmed down.”
The door bangs against the frame a few more times and for a second you question if it's going to hold. You didn't think anything could scare you more than the borderline animalistic sounds she was huffing out, until she started laughing like a cartoon villain.
“Oh doll.” Her metal hand scratches against the wood, slow. A sharp noise hisses into the air. Like nails on a chalkboard. “Either way this ends with you fucked out underneath me, yeah?” She groans. Even through the door the familiar sound of her belt hitting the ground isn't lost on you. “This shimmer in my system doesn't change the fact my fingers belong between your legs, pumping in and out, infact with this running through my veins I bet you I can move my hand faster than those little vibrators of yours. G-gonna make you scream my name sweetheart~”
“Sevika…enough.” The only thing stopping your core from heating up at her words was pure concern for her wellbeing. “Listen to your wife and go get some water and lay down…”
“No.” Another bang of the door. “I already decided the only drink I want is between your legs. Only place I plan to sleep is next to you.”
“Damnit.” You curse. It almost might be better to ignore her, yet you feel obligated to try to persuade her to make better choices. “Your not fucking me tonight so your just wasting y-” Another jolt of the door befuddles you, it's a rhythmic slam, not as loud as the others but still powerful enough to make you wonder if the door would hold. You may have never even noticed what she was doing until the filthiest groan leaves her throat. “Sevika I know you aren't thrusting against the door!”
Another groan, even deeper than last time. “Gonna shove my cock so deep in you that you feel it in your stomach Y/N~” Sevika punctuates your name with a particular hard thrust. “Keep you pinned down on your back and make you watch me get off to the way you helplessly fall apart-” Thrust “Your mouth can lie but that gorgeous body of yours isn't capable of that sweetheart, just-” The thrusting picks up to a speed your positive you can't handle. “Open. The. Door.”
It's taking everything in your soul to not panic, this wasn't normal behavior from her or anyone for that matter. All responses have long left your mind and you sit in silence, eventually, even she stops and you pray she's given up but her voice picks up through the door once more.
And God does she sound pissed.
“For every time I ask and have asked you to open this door is one time I'm going to wring an orgasm from you, let's assume we're at around five now.” She hums.
“Vika…”
“Baby~”
“Make as many threats as you want, that door ain't opening, for every time you ask adds an hour to your outside timer…let's assume you're at six~” you mock.
Sevikas fist slams into the door. “Have it your way then but I don't wanna hear any complaints or begging if you start to see heaven, woman.”
You genuinely snort at her frustration. “Okay Vika see you tomorrow!”
No response.
Finally, you think. She's given up and gone to rest like she should have from the beginning. You wander off to go take a shower, enjoying the loud music blaring in your ears. You finish your nighttime routine and skip back into the bedroom for your peaceful night alone, just you, your soap operas-
And the bright purple eyes staring at you from the darkness, the single window open wide behind them.
-
Note: Hope you enjoyed and Yes I'm still working on the second chapter for the other Sevika fic but this was stuck in my nogging taking up space so I had to get it out~
#arcane smut#sevika#sevika fanfic#sevika one shot#sevika smut#sevika x reader#sevika x y/n#sevika x you
277 notes
·
View notes
Note
Okay but I need another installment of Free Use 3racha cause wtf Sorsha 🥵🥵🥵🤪

3racha, free use… just some thoughts 3/♾️
this is not a storyline, just hard thoughts and drabbles.
part 1 | part 2 | part 3 | part 4
⚠️ MDNI / smut
// Dollification // CW reader dressed up as a doll. Penetrative sex (all holes), cum dump, squirting, body worship, aftercare, role play, vaginal fingering.
Sometimes Binnie does this thing where he pretends he’s a “dollmaker” and you’re his creation (his “doll”) and he dresses you up pretty, then shares you with his friends Chan and Jisung.
Tonight he’s made you up in a pretty pink organza layered dress with white thigh high stays ups and cute little white ankle boots that have a bow on top.
He’s got you in full eyelash extensions, perfect makeup with rosie cheeks and crimson lips. He’s even popped a wig on you, creating luscious curls that frame your face perfectly.
“Such a good doll. So perfect.” He whispers as his plush lips brush your powdered cheeks. “You’ll be played with real soon, my pretty little bunny.”
You don’t move. You don’t react. You just lay on the bed where Changbin has set you up and stare into the middle distance with unfocused eyes.
You hear the front door open. Chan and Jisung are home. Then whispers in the hallway outside the bedroom.
Your little crotchless panties are soaking as you anticipate how the three of them might play with you.
You see them enter the bedroom. Jisung looks beyond excited to see you on display so pretty. Chan sucks in a breath and rakes his eyes over you.
“What a pretty little doll.” He says as he strips off his clothes. You don’t react even though you know he’s completely naked.
Jisung climbs on the bed next to you. He’s naked too. “So pretty.” He whispers in a deep, husky voice. He strokes your cheek, and drags his thumb along your bottom lip. “You’ve done well, Changbin. You know why I love dolls so much?” He tugs your mouth open. “They don’t need to breathe.” He chuckles.
“They don’t answer back either.” Chan adds pumping his cock.
“Can I fill up her mouth, Bin?” Jisung turns to Changbin who looks like he’s a proud inventor. “You can do whatever you want to her. I’ve made her robust, and she is easily wiped clean.” He says proudly.
“Is that so?” Chan nods impressed. “Mind if I explore her parts?”
Jisung quickly climbs onto your chest and takes your face in his hands. He whispers as he rubs his leaking cock head along your lip. You drop your jaw open, allowing Jisung to slip his cock into your mouth. He holds you so carefully, like your precious, slowing sliding more and more in with each gentle thrust.
“You’re the perfect size. You fit my cock perfectly. Made for cock, aren’t you?” He pants as he starts to fuck your face. You don’t react, but your eyes water as Jisung builds a relentless rhythm.
Meanwhile, you feel your legs being pried open and Chan curse under his breath. “She’s so wet!” He exclaims.
“She’s self lubricating.” Binnie explains. “Also. If you play with her long enough, and push all the right buttons, she squirts.”
You almost whimper when chan runs his finger through your dripping slit. “Have you fucked her cunt?” Chan asks.
“I haven’t.” Binnie says softly. “Been trying to get her just perfect for all of us.”
“I think you should go first.” Chan shuffles to the side.
Within moments, Changbin is pushing his fat cock into your tight little pussy.
“She takes you well.” Chan observes. “Stretches perfectly, sucks you back in.”
Jisung grips the headboard as he thrusts into you relentlessly, causing you to gag.
Chan picks up your hand and wraps it around his thick, veiny cock and uses it to jerk him off.
You feel so special as your lovers play with you like you’re the best toy they’ve ever owned.
Binnie fucks your pussy perfectly, Chan feels good in your hand, and Jisung, well he’s your favourite cock to choke on.
“I’m fucking coming.” Announces Jisung as he spurts thick ropes of cum into your mouth. You keep your mouth open when he pulls out, dragging saliva and cum out onto your chin. “So messy little plaything.” He grins and kisses your forehead.
Binnie follows, and with a loud growl he cums deep in your cunt.
Over the next few hours they continue to play with you. They take turns trying out your pussy, cumming deep inside you. They fill your mouth again and again with their cum. They flip you over and spank you. They play with your ass with a vibrator. They bend, twist and contort you to suit their needs.
They cut your clothes off so you’re naked and lick every inch of your skin.
You are the best little doll they could have hoped for, letting them do everything they want.
You love it too. The attention. The role play. The feeling of fully submitting to them.
They make you come over and over, and eventually, with Chan buried deep in your ass, Jisung four fingers into your pussy, and Changbin lodged in your throat, you are driven over the edge one final time and squirt all over them.
They take their time to clean you up, running a bath and soaking you. Chan washes your body, Jisung changes the sheets and finds your pyjamas. Changbin makes you a hot chocolate.
They tuck you into bed and curl up beside you. “So we know what buttons to press to make do squirt, babygirl.” Chan grins and kisses your cheek.
You close your eyes knowing that this will be their goal every time they fuck you now.
………
A/n I’ve had dollification on my mind since a little convo with @palindrome969 😘😘😘
@channieandhisgoonsquad @noellllslut @itsseohannbin @weareapackofstrays @kangnina @3rachasdomesticbanana @palindrome969 @xxkissesforchanniexx @chuuchuu1224 @fun-fanfics @wolfennracha
323 notes
·
View notes
Text
Part 23: Flowerbed
A March 2025 Hinny Microfic for @ginnystrophyhusband using Prompt 2
589 words (of the Arthur Weasley Appreciation Society manifesto)
All the March prompts that I write will be set in the same universe as, and form a prequel to, this fic.
Fair warning - it's going to be fluffy!
This little series has ended up with a lot more actual story than I expected, so if you'd like a bit more context to what's actually going on here, you might want to...
Read them all from the beginning on AO3
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Herbology, as Professor Sprout often reminds her students, is not the same as gardening. Comparing the propagation and care of magical plants (and indeed, non-magical plants with magical applications), bears about as much similarity to managing and maintaining a domestic garden as the Atlantic ocean does to Ty Môr’s garden pond just the other side of the fence.
Unfortunately, while Hogwarts students study Herbology for at least five years, no one ever actually teaches gardening charms—any other household magic for that matter. They’re the sort of things that kids who grow up in magical homes just know - along with cooking charms, cleaning charms, and all those other domestic spells they just seem to acquire by osmosis, soaking them up through their habitual use all around them.
For example, Ginny can’t remember anyone ever teaching her the wand movement for washing the dishes, or the incantation for making the bed, she just saw her mother do it so many times that when it was eventually her turn, it already felt like second nature. It still sometimes surprises her when her Muggleborn friends and Muggle-raised boyfriend don’t know things that are as natural to her as breathing.
She gets another reminder of this on Sunday, when her parents come over for lunch, the first time she’s hosted them as opposed to the other way around. Harry cooked, much to everyone’s relief, and now Ginny and her mum are cleaning up the kitchen and making tea.
Harry’s taken Dad into the garden to show him that pond; or rather, to show him the electric pump that the previous Muggle owners installed to power the pathetically weedy fountain at its centre.
They’ve been out there a while, and just as Ginny’s wondering if she should send out a search party, Harry’s voice drifts in through the open window. Smiling, Ginny automatically tunes into his words as she pours hot water onto the teabags.
“...didn’t occur to me that there was a spell for that,” he’s saying.
“Oh yes!” Dad replies, enthusiastically. “Cultivaria is a really handy charm for encouraging healthy growth. And I can teach you a few others too; there are some great ones for weeding, deadheading, petal preservation—all sorts really. If we work on it together, we’ll have your flowerbeds looking fabulous this time next year.”
“That sounds great! Thanks, Mr Weasley.”
“Harry,” sighs Dad, sounding fondly exasperated. “I keep telling you, call me Arthur. And it’s no trouble at all; I can’t imagine how much work maintaining a garden must be without magic.”
Ginny can hear the shrug in Harry’s voice. “I used to do all the gardening at Privet Drive by hand, but this will be way easier.”
“All of it? On your own?” The edge in her father’s voice tells Ginny he feels just as much revulsion for Harry’s Muggle relatives as she does.
“I didn’t mind too much. At least it got me out of the house.”
Harry’s voice is so matter-of-fact that it cracks Ginny’s heart a little. From the tremble in Dad’s voice, he feels much the same. “Well, son. You know you can ask me for help any time you need it.”
“Thanks Mr We…” Harry takes a deep breath. “... Arthur. That means a lot.”
It means a lot to Ginny too. She’s always been convinced that she’s got the best Dad in the whole wide world. Listening to him supporting her boyfriend, in a way that Harry’s own father didn’t get the chance, she’s never been more proud to be a daddy’s girl.
35 notes
·
View notes
Text
The Sonnet of Domino & Phlox - Ch3
[A/N: Click here to read the previous chapter. Click here to start at Chapter 1. This story is also available to read on AO3]
Getting to the townsquare was easier said than done. Running against the flow of escaping townsfolk was like swimming upstream in white-water rapids. But the screams of terror that surrounded her only spurred Domino to push forward. To steel mind, she reminded herself that this was no different than any other time she worked her way through crowds going unnoticed. She tucked her arms in and crouched low, making herself as small as possible before sprinting and weaving through scrambling bodies. Among the foot traffic she spotted a trail of trampled produce and followed its lead to a toppled over cart. She used the desecrated merchant stand as a jumping board and launched herself high into the air, catching onto a light pole and swinging from one to another. Clouds of dust weren’t enough to mask the orange behemoths that had just successfully knocked over the town center statue.
“I knew it!” Domino seethed. As soon as she landed on the cobblestone path, she swung her backpack off her shoulder and pulled out a medium sized pot. It wasn’t much in terms of a weapon, but it was fairly sturdy and she figured she could dislodge the bot’s head if she found a way to strike in the right spot. “Sorry Phlox, looks like I’ve got another date for dinner.” She gripped the pot by the handle and began to charge at the giant mechs with a mighty battle cry.
“WAIT!”
The hedgehog skidded to a halt, turning her head and tilting her ears to find the source of the yell. She looked up to spot a pair of trembling shrew ears poking up from a window in a nearby building. Hesitantly, the mayor looked out to her over the window ledge. “Y-You can’t-”
His command was drowned out by the noxious screeching of metal-on-metal as one of the Botniks pried the recently installed well pump from the ground. The robot’s torso began to spin, gradually gaining speed. Once it was spinning at full velocity, it released the well pump from its grip and the metal tube worked as a missile to plow through one of the storefronts. The ‘torpedo’ wasn’t large enough to bring the entirety of the building down, but the frontmost wall of bricks had been launched into the store like a shotgun blast and destroyed almost everything inside.
Domino’s eyes widened at the destruction the robot was able to achieve in only seconds.
“Spit it out, Mayor,” she encouraged, bouncing on the balls of her feet in preparation to fight, “-before these bumbling bozos knock down your house, next!”
“You can’t break them!”
“I can sure try,” she shouted back, looping the handle of the pot over her finger and twirling it.
“No! I mean you can’t break them; they were too expensive!”
Her eyes shot up to the shrew in disbelief. “What?!” She scoffed and gestured at the growing pile of debris that cluttered the town square. “You’re tellin’ me these things are worth more to you than the rest of the town?!”
“YES! Literally!” He shrieked. “ I-... We invested our entire budget into these machines. We won’t be able to return them if they’re reduced to scraps!”
The girl groaned, shoving the cookware back into her backpack. There was no time to debate ‘returns’ and ‘lawsuits’ and whatnot, not with the clunky orange beasts making their way towards her. “If I can’t break these things,” she thought to herself, “I’ve gotta figure out a way to turn ‘em off.” These were machines after all, and as far as she knew, all machines had an off-switch. But despite the ‘smiley face’ logo branded on their chassis, these robots didn’t seem friendly enough to let her get a close look.
She thought about the lessons Phlox taught her while they played in the creek that morning: Assess the situation and use her strengths.
Size.
Speed.
Resourcefulness.
These bots were bigger and stronger than her, but they were far slower and not nearly as nimble. A smile spread across her muzzle.
Domino ran straight towards the Botniks. One of the robots reached out to snatch the teal hedgehog, but she quickly darted in another direction before it could grab her. While its body was still leaned over and its arms stretched at a 45 degree angle towards the ground, Domino sprinted back towards the machine and used its arm as a ramp to scale to the top of its head. “Wheeere are you, ‘Off Swiii~iitch’?” she sang nervously. Her eyes scanned the back of the dome. Except for the crude paint, the surface of the bot’s ‘skull’ was smooth and free of any switches. A blur of orange was visible in her periphery where Botnik #2 was launching a punch right towards her. She scrambled behind #1’s head and she was just small enough to use it for cover. The metallic fist collided into the dome of its peer with an echoing BONG!
She slipped down the robot’s back, musing as she noticed an access panel. “Oooh hello.” She ran a finger along the seal and traced the singular, straight indent in each of the screw heads. “HA! Some fancy tech you are. These are just your run of the mill-wHuoOAHH!”
Domino wailed as the robot once again began spinning its torso and the centrifugal force pried her off the mech and launched her down an alley and into a stack of barrels. The weight atop her was bad enough, but the contents of her backpack dug into her back as she was pinned down. With effort, she pushed the heavy containers off of her and shrugged off her bag, rubbing the stinging spot in her back. “Maybe pants are better than a backpack,” she joked to herself. Her eyes widened and she gasped. Pants!
She shoved her hand into the pocket of her trousers and pulled out one of the coins she’d received from the mayor. It was no flat-head screwdriver, but it was just the right size to do the trick. An incredulous laugh escaped her lips and she was actually glad that the politician had been such a cheapskate. She excitedly tossed the coin into the air before snatching it and pocketing it again. Domino returned to her feet and sprinted back to the courtyard, leaving her backpack hidden away within the rubble for later.
Fighting both bots at the same time wasn’t an option. She’d have to make sure that one was occupied while she worked to power down the other. As she quickly approached the town square, she looked up and noticed the stringed pennants that decorated the once lovely neighborhood. Leaping into the air, she curled into a spinning ball and sliced the cord with her quills. With string in hand, she ran towards Robot #1 that was preparing another attack. Using her small size and speed, she darted under the bot’s legs and began weaving in and out around and between them. The bulky robot was too rotund and had no neck in order to look down and see that she was tying loops around the machine’s appendages. As it blindly took a swing, she dodged and instead jumped onto the offending arm, looping the pennant string around the bot’s wrist and leaping up onto its shoulder, swinging around the back of its neck and then jumping back down so the robot had put itself in a chokehold. Domino made one final loop around the robot’s other arm and at last, secured the end of the string to itself with several tight knots. When the angry orange behemoth tried to attack again, it stumbled onto its back and struggled to break free from its ties with a series of whirrs and mechanical groans. She laughed breathlessly, marveling at her own handiwork.
A couple of high-pitched screams snapped her back to reality. She spun on her heel to see two marten children cowering in the looming shadow of Robot #2. The bot raised its fists in the air, poised to bring them down like a hammer on the younglings. The oldest of the two girls was poised in front of the other as if to shield her, but it was clear both were paralyzed by fear.
Domino used a running slide to snatch the children into her arms and all three narrowly escaped just as the robot slammed its fists into the ground. Without much time for pleasantries, she pushed the kids away and shouted, “Run! Hide and stay hidden!” The martens nodded, tears in their eyes, and scrambled away. Just as Domino started to get back up, a mechanical set of fingers wrapped around her ankle and she was quickly pulled out from under her feet, swung over the robot’s head and then slammed into the ground on her back. The hedgehog wheezed, the air having been knocked from her lungs. Running around was one thing, but brawling was a completely new experience. And it hurt like a sonofabitch.
Propping herself up onto her elbows in hopes to calm the dizzy spell that rattled her brain, she noticed a shadow cast over her. The orange robot stood above her, arms once again raised high above its head, and before she could manage to roll away, its fists came crashing down for a fatal blow. She only had enough time to clench her eyes shut in hopes that not being able to see ‘the end’ would somehow make it less painful.
So much for making a difference.
A heavy “thud” was followed by the sound of mechanical groaning and whirring, as if the robot’s gears were grinding in a struggle. Confused as to why she wasn’t a puddle of jelly, Domino opened her eyes to see an indigo angel shielding her view.
Phlox stood between the mechanical beast and the young woman who lay on the cobblestone, having caught the robot’s arms by the wrists and stopping it mid-strike. The interior workings of the machine screeched with effort as it continued its attempt to bring its weight down upon the two hedgehogs, but Phlox held his grip and didn’t let the metal arms budge an inch.
The young man looked over his shoulder at the bewildered lady. “What do you need?” He asked, cutting right to the point.
Domino blinked and shook her head, not allowing herself the time to comment on Phlox’s insane talent of being-at-the-right-place-at-the-right-time or marveling at the tense muscles in his arms and shoulders as he grappled with the robot. “Breaking it is off-limits. I need to get to the access panel on this thing’s back to try and power it down. Do you think you can hold it in place?”
Phlox grinned, eyes half-lidded with confidence. “You got it. Mind moving over just a skosh?”
The teal hedgehog scrambled away from the powerhouses. As soon as she was safely out of harm’s way, Phlox released the robot and quickly darted to the side, using the machine’s momentum against itself so that it fell on its hands and knees. In a series of forceful maneuvers that were too fast for Domino to comprehend, Phlox pressured the bot onto its chest and grappled it into a hammerlock, driving its wrist to its opposite hip behind its back. Despite the robot’s size, Phlox stretched himself as far as he could and hooked one of the bot’s legs with his own, looped his free arm over the robot’s neck and then scraped the machine’s head towards its own knee in a cradle position. The ovoid behemoth screeched and whirred as it tried to break free, but with its limbs secured and Phlox’s weight and strength pinning it in place, it twitched helplessly on the ground with its back exposed.
“Step on up,” the purple hedgehog encouraged proudly, maybe a little too excited at the chance to show off his wrestling skills.
It took all of Domino’s willpower to suppress the whirlwind of butterflies in her stomach and focus on the mission at hand. She hurried over and, using the coin from her pocket, began to unscrew the plate from the access panel. Once open, she could see a seemingly endless network of wires and doohickeys that made up the robot’s interior. There were no signs of any buttons but she hoped there was a switch hidden inside or at least a notable power source. Luckily, the panel opening was just large enough for someone of her small frame to narrowly sneak through. “I’m going in. Keep it steady,” she instructed and Phlox acknowledged with a nod.
The sharp edges of the metal access panel scraped against her shoulders and arms as she burrowed her way into the mechanical beast’s chassis. The interior was just as confined and difficult to move around in, but Domino thanked the stars that she wasn’t claustrophobic and that being contorted into a ball came naturally to her. With the robot being a custom build, there weren’t any obvious labels present. She opted to simply start unplugging wires in hopes it would stop the bot without permanently damaging it. She disconnected wires by the handfuls and pried open panels in search of a battery to dislodge, but despite her efforts she could still feel the rattling of the bot as it struggled against Phlox. “What the heck is powering this thing?” she muttered to herself.
After determining that it stood no chance breaking free from the male hedgehog’s powerful pin, the robot ceased its jostling and focused on recalculating. Phlox raised an eyebrow at the now still machine.
Without the constant sound of grinding gears, Domino could hear a frantic chattering noise coming from the darkness in front of her. Curious, she squeezed her way further into the ovoid torso to find the source of the sound.
Before Phlox could ask Domino if she had powered the bot down, the mechanical hand that belonged to the posted out arm slowly began to retract into its forearm. Phlox’s pin didn’t allow him to see what was happening, but he could hear and feel mechanical turning and shifting in the robot appendage that rested between his feet. “Uh… Minnie?”
“Just a minute!” she shouted back. With an outstretched hand, her palm made contact with some kind of container located in the core of the bot and the chatter and squeaks got even louder. Squinting in the dark, she could just barely make out what was inside. “What the hell?”
The robot’s hand was replaced with the same drillbit that was used earlier to bore into the ground. Phlox immediately clocked the sound of the drill beginning to spin and his fur stood on end as the arm gradually hinged at the elbow, the vicious, tapered helix making its way towards one of his ankles at a cruel, menacingly slow pace. “Hey, let’s hussle!” he hollered, inching his stance wider in hopes to avoid the approaching weapon but committing to holding the robot in place while Domino was still inside. “This thing’s got accessories!”
“Don’t worry,” she whispered to the orb. “I’ll get you outta there.” She clenched her hand into a fist and threw as strong of a punch as she could muster.
Phlox lifted onto his toes to just narrowly avoid the drillbit skimming his heel. He took several short, shallow breaths in preparation for the excruciating pain he was about to endure but suddenly the drill slowed and the arm clanged lifelessly against the ground.
“Did that work?” Domino’s voice echoed faintly from within the ‘corpse’ bot.
“Yeah,” Phlox released his tight hold on the robot and instead let himself collapse and rest against it, exhaling a sigh of relief. “Phew!”
Teal quills breached from the access panel and Phlox made his way over to carefully assist Domino out, hissing through his teeth at the noticeable scrapes on her shoulders and shirt from the sharp metal. Once she was free, his brow furrowed at the curled up, frightened little animal that the woman cradled in her arms. “...Who’s your friend?”
Domino petted the trembling Pocky. The gentle touch made the critter look up from its cowering stance and upon realizing it was outside, it leapt out of the woman’s arms and bounded away. Domino looked to Phlox, a mixture of concern and anger burning behind her blue eyes. “He was the battery.”
Phlox pursed his lips and took hold of Domino’s hand. They turned towards Robot #2 who was still rolling and trying to untangle itself from its binds. “Let’s go help his buddy.” The pair sprinted to the bot and, to let loose a little bit of steam, Domino kicked it to roll over onto its front. She hurriedly unfastened the screws but Phlox stopped her before she could crawl atop the robot.
“Allow me,” He gripped onto the edges of the open panel and used all his strength to begin to pry the access panel open wider.
“We’re not supposed to break it!” Domino laughed with excitement and shock. She held onto Phlox’s shoulders in a feigned attempt to stop him, but mostly to appreciate his strength.
“Bending isn’t breaking,” he teased with a strained voice. With the panel opening now widened and reshaped so the edges wouldn’t cause as much harm, Phlox patted the metal body of the flailing robot. “There ya go.”
Thrilled, Domino hopped up and lowered herself into the robot with ease. Now that she knew what she was looking for, she reached through the web of wires until her hand tapped against the hidden container. With a loud ‘HYAH!’ Domino punched the container and the barrier popped.
Phlox watched in amusement as the thrashing robot’s eyes dimmed and its movements came to a halt. He was about to peek over the access panel to help Domino out once again but was startled by a very angry Flicky that flew out from the bot. The little bird screeched what Phlox could only imagine was a series of curses as it fluttered to the head of the bot and gave the dome a few angry pecks for good measure before flying away.
Domino stood upright, a bewildered smile on her face. “We did it.” She jumped out of the mechanical shell and purposefully landed in Phlox’s arms. “We did it!”
“We?!” Phlox burst into that fit of laughter that Domino found herself craving the more she heard it. She laughed breathlessly as he spun her around. “You did it! You were fearless! And your quick-thinking by tying one up so you could deal with the other? I’m beyond impressed!”
“Okay but I would’ve been a Hedgehog-Pancake if it wasn’t for you! You were amazing!” She released her arms from around his neck and inspected his bicep with overly aggressive, playful squeezes. “What was that?!”
Phlox chuckled, his muzzle red with blush. “I told you, I’m one of four brothers. In our house, if you didn’t get good at wrestling, you didn’t get to eat.” He held Domino’s face in his hands and gasped as if suddenly remembering something. “Oh oh oh! Can we talk about that poetic justice?! You taking down those things with pocket-change??? Don’t think your commentary on Capitalism was lost on me.”
Domino giggled and before she knew it, she had planted another kiss on Phlox’s lips. Right now, she wasn’t thinking about how much more dangerous letting him into her heart was compared to the robots she just fought. Right now, she was only consumed with how sweet and clever and astounding he was, and how good he tasted.
“Is it finally over?!” came the shrill voice of the mayor, snapping Domino out of her stupor. She immediately put a good amount of space between her and Phlox. She cleared her throat and combed the tufts of fur on the sides of her face, hoping to hide her blush.
“Yeah, s’all good,” she coughed.
The sweating shrew embraced the lifeless shells of the robots, inspecting them with panic. “And you didn’t break them? Right?! I swear if they’re damaged-”
“Relax,” Domino did her best to mask her irritation. “Your precious little Botniks are without power but otherwise unharmed.”
Phlox crossed his arms, more openly expressive of his annoyance with the politician. “Botniks? More like ‘Badniks’...” He scoffed under his breath. He directed his attention to the shrew. “If you notice anything out of place, you can direct me to the nearest fabrication shop and I’ll do my best to patch them up. I’m a certified steel worker. Though after seeing what ‘good’ these things do, I’m not so sure they’re worth it. Before you go contacting the manufacturer about that extended warranty, maybe you want to focus on your people?”
“Right right,” the Mayor slicked back his sweat-matted fur and adjusted his coat before proudly sticking his chest out. “Alright everyone, nothing to fear! Please return about your business,” He waved his arms as he paraded down the street to weary citizens who hesitantly emerged from their hiding spots.
Domino dusted off her backpack and secured it to her shoulders when she recognized the high pitched screaming of the two little martens from before. Only this time, their cheering was that of the happy kind. The siblings ran full speed into the lady hedgehog and hugged her tight. “OUR HERO!” they shouted in unison.
Phlox smiled warmly as he watched Domino patting the little girls’ heads affectionately. “Oh hey you!” She knelt down to playfully (and oh so gently) make a slugging motion against the older child’s chin, earning a giggle from the little girl. “You were really brave back there, protecting your little sis like that.”
“YOU’RE the brave one!” the smaller one argued. She then used her childlike energy to bounce around and throw her fists about with karate chops, complete with sound effects. “You were like HOO-SHWAHHH-WHOOOSH!”
“Brie?! Mimolette?!” A mature woman rushed towards the group.
“Mommy mommy, this is her! She’s the lady who saved us!” The woman sighed with relief and scooped all three–the two little girls and Domino–into a tight group hug. Domino blinked in surprise, the embrace feeling strange and foreign.
“Thank you! Thank you for saving my babies!” the woman cried. Domino patted her arm and did her best to squirm out of the hold.
“No prob, besides it was a team effort,” she pointed her thumb at Phlox, whose eyes widened. “If it weren’t for him, those things would still be causin’ a ruckus.”
Phlox tittered nervously. “Oh, well I-” The older marten cut him off by hugging him tightly and wailing a series of ‘thank yous’. Phlox muttered a strained “ᴵᵗ ʷᵃˢ ᵐʸ ᵖˡᵉᵃˢᵘʳᵉ.”
Finally the woman released him but took each hedgehog by the hand. “My name’s Fontina. You’ve already met my daughters. Please, come with us to my shop so I can repay you.”
“Oh you don’t have t-” Domino started but was yanked along by the stubborn marten. Mimolette, the youngest, grabbed Domino’s free hand and Brie grabbed Phlox’s and the girls skipped along as the hedgehogs were pulled against their will.
“Honestly ma’am this isn’t necessary,” Phlox chuckled nervously, not used to being doted on by someone other than his own mother.
Domino nodded frantically. “Yeah, we were only doing the right thing. S’no biggie.”
“Yes, biggie!” the woman corrected. “Now then, I don’t have much money–it’s been a slow week for us–but I will let you help yourself to anything in my supply!” The merchant kicked open the door to her shop, a quaint general store equipped with mostly clothing and accessories. As soon as they entered, the little girls darted off and began pulling all manner of garments off their hangers, giggling amongst themselves.
Domino waved her hands dismissively. “Whoa whoa whoa, you seriously don’t need to do that.” She knew what it felt like to work hard and still struggle to make ends meet. She didn’t want to put this family through that. “We don’t wanna take your inventory, especially with you running your own business and all…”
Fontina turned on her heel and placed her hands on her hips, demonstrating a commanding presence that made both young hedgehogs stand up straight and listen obediently. “Without you two stepping in and stopping those dastardly things from destroying the whole marketplace, I’d no longer have a shop at all! Besides, it looks like those baddies did a number on your wardrobe.” The woman plucked at Domino’s tattered top. The teal hedgehog lowered her head and averted her eyes in shame, hoping the merchant remained clueless that the majority of the rips in her clothes came before the battle. “Now, I insist.” The woman held up a blouse to Domino, eyeing her frame and making sure it’d be the right fit, before placing it into the teen’s arms.
The children returned with handfuls of dresses, shirts and shoes, tossing them at Domino faster than she could catch them, while the girls also bombarded her with cheers of “Oh this would look so cute on you!” “Have this one! Have this one!”
Phlox looked on with pride and amusement, his grin stretching across the entirety of his muzzle, rubbing his thumb along his bottom lip in a failed attempt to suppress his smile. As silly as it was to see Domino getting smothered in a mountain of clothes, it made his heart happy to see her luck turning around and finally getting some well-earned recognition. As if she could sense his gaze, Domino looked over at him, peeking out from the pile of garments. She widened her eyes and silently mouthed the words ‘Help me.’
His grin widened but it was now filled to the brim with mischief. Though he was still getting to know Domino, he figured she would be too proud to admit she could really use some of the items she was being given and no way in hell was he going to let her be talked out of it. Plus, Phlox didn’t need anything himself and figured his time could be better spent returning outside and helping clean up some of the rubble. Better to keep the attention on her. He shrugged as he quietly backed away, as if to say ‘Sorry, not rescuing you this time.’ Phlox teased her with a wink before slinking out of her view.
Domino called to him as loudly as one could while still maintaining the volume of a whisper, his name coming out like an oh-so-faint shriek, “Phlox! Phlox!” But it was too late, he was already gone without the merchant or her daughters noticing. Domino grumbled. She was totally going to kick his jean-wearin’ tush later.
On his way out, Phlox happened to spot one item hanging on the wall that did intrigue him. He removed it from its hook to inspect it. Despite Fontina’s instructions, he left some money on the counter to pay for his purchase and exited the shop.
.
Being fussed over was… weird. It wasn’t bad, per say. But it certainly felt unusual.
Domino ruminated over the bizarre day she had, her backpack weighted by a full assortment of foods and her arms carrying large, overstuffed bags as she made her way to the inn. She had probably spent at least two hours at the general store with the marten family who refused to let her leave without several shopping bags full of things she definitely didn’t need. It was exhausting having all that attention on her, dodging all of the shopkeeper’s questions and quickly improvising innocent little fibs on the fly. Still, it was a really sweet gesture and she honestly couldn’t remember the last time an authority figure had been so kind to her.
When Domino mentioned that she was going to see if there were still any food carts left standing in order to purchase some groceries, the two little girls pulled on her arms and begged to join her. She couldn’t understand why these kids seemed so fixated on her, but something about them tugged on her heartstrings and with their mother’s permission, Domino agreed to let them tag along. She held each child by the hand as they escorted her down the alley, pointing at their favorite stands and making recommendations of which ingredients she should buy. Domino felt a warmth blooming in her heart, a sense of longing and pride that was foreign yet so deeply ingrained in her instincts that it also felt natural. She couldn’t place what this feeling was, but she welcomed it all the same.
Thanks to the marten family supplying her with all the free clothes she could want, Domino had plenty of money that she could spend on food supplies both for tonight’s dinner and for the approaching winter. She even got a huge deal on produce, as many of the items were blemished from the robots’ earlier antics, but of course she didn’t mind. Food was food, after all. Here she thought she’d be down to her last penny, but it looked like she’d have some ‘emergency funds’ to last her over the next season. For the first time, luck seemed to be favoring her.
All of that, paired with her melee against a couple of crazy robots? This was a strange couple of days indeed! Not to mention being treated to her first ever date, on her way for a second date at that. Domino bit the inside of her cheek to stifle the butterflies that filled her stomach once again. Even if that ‘jerk’ had ditched her at the shop, she was thrilled to get to see him again. Perhaps she’d force him to sit through a ‘fashion show’ of all the superfluous outfits she was given. Yeah, that’d make for excellent payback!
She chuckled at the thought as she entered the lobby of the inn and made her way to the stairs to find Phlox’s room. The innkeeper had been lazily relaxing, his feet propped up on his desk, until the sight of the teal hedgehog startled him and the dog jumped to attention.
“Excuse me,” he approached her and Domino stopped and tilted her head. “Where do you think you’re going?”
“Oh, I’m meeting a friend,” she gestured towards the stairs. The innkeeper blocked her path and pointed at the bags in her hands.
“And where did you get all that?” he scowled.
Domino tensed and furrowed her brows. “...From the store…”
“All these goodies, yet you can’t afford a good shirt?” The large dog looped his finger under one of the straps of Domino’s tattered tank top. She jerked her shoulder away in reflex.
“Don’t touch me,” she hissed low, her quills raising on end.
The man tugged on one of the shopping bags to check inside. “You got a receipt for this stuff?”
Domino’s breath quickened, her blood boiling and making her skin feel uncomfortably hot. “These were given to me, as a gift.”
“Ch’yeah, another one of your tall tales,” the dog remarked. The hedgehog girl’s mouth fell agape and his look grew even more smug. “In this town, word spreads. I know how you’ve been lurking around, spinning your web of lies any time anybody asks what brings you here. You think you can go around lying and thieving and then hide out in my establishment?”
Her face was burning hot with rage, but she wasn’t sure if she was more mad at the guy throwing accusations or angry with herself. Yes, she had made up some things, but never at the expense of anyone, never to hurt anybody else or to try to swindle them. Her stories were her means of deflecting and protecting herself from harm, and here they led right to this heated confrontation. “I’m not lying!” Domino insisted. She threw her arms down and let the shopping bags crash to the floor. “Go ahead and take them, I don’t even need any of this stuff!”
“Don’t you try to offload your haul on me, you little street rat!” he raised his voice even louder. “Now beat it before I call the authorities!”
“Hey!” A third voice boomed from the stairway. Phlox made his way towards the two, his shoulders straight and upright so that he commanded attention. He pushed himself between the innkeeper and Domino, shielding her with his arm. “Do you have any idea who you’re talking to?” His tone was far more serious and firm than the gentle, melodic voice he used whenever he spoke with the girl. “This is the woman who just saved this city from those two rogue machines out there. She’s the reason this inn is still standing.” He stared down the annoyed man. Even though the innkeeper was larger and Phlox was normally soft spoken and shy, at this moment he didn’t feel even an inkling of anxiety. Something about Domino’s presence and–more importantly–the compelling need to defend her made him feel more confident than ever before. He pointed his finger into the dog’s chest. “I’ll testify for her, as will Fontina the shop owner, and a dozen other people who will as well. Including your esteemed mayor. So go ahead, make that phone call. Or leave her be.”
The man glared silently for several intense beats but when he realized the indigo hedgehog wasn’t backing down, he scoffed and returned to his desk.
Phlox turned back to Domino, taking her by the hand and using his other to help pick up her bags. “Come on,” he said softly, using the gentle voice she had come to know. But as he led her up the stairs, she couldn’t hear what he was saying. Instead, her mind was racing with a million thoughts that were far louder and more painful.
Stupid. This was so stupid. She was so stupid.
Why did she let herself think these last few days were any different than every other day of her life? How could she think that the people of this town were any different than every other hateful, judgemental stranger she came across? What on earth made her think that for once, just once, she might be able to go about without the world thinking so little of her? But they were right to think these things. She was wild and dirty and stupid, so stupid.
The hedgehogs had made their way to Phlox’s room and he pulled out the chair to the small dining area so that Domino could sit, but her mind was still reeling. Her eyes darted around, taking in the pristine bedding that was more warm and more sterile than anything she’d ever laid on, to the stark white paint on the walls that felt constricting and nauseating, to the state-of-the-art kitchenette with a stovetop full of buttons that she had no idea how to use. She didn’t belong in this world. Her gaze stayed fixated on the stove. Chaos, how was she supposed to cook dinner for a guy using equipment that she knew nothing about? For a perfect guy part of this perfect world, all of which she had no business associating with. For all the far-fetched stories she told throughout her life, the idea of belonging to this perfect world with this perfect guy was the most unbelievable and she was a fool to let herself fall for her own fantasy.
Tears pricked the corner of her eyes. ‘Stop crying,’ she thought to herself, breathing quickly and heavily through her nose. ‘Stop crying. Stop crying.’ Domino repeated the phrase over and over in her mind in an endless loop until the voice inside her head evolved into the angry, aggressive voice from whom she had first learned the phrase. Her stepfather.
‘STOP CRYING!’
Her train of thought was broken as she felt a warmth in her hand and she turned her head to see that Phlox was kneeling before her, her hand in his. His green and amber eyes searched hers, looking deep beyond the surface. He studied her with an intense focus, hoping he could learn what was hurting her so badly but worried that if he spoke, she might completely break. He could sense that this went beyond the little altercation that just happened in the lobby. There was a deep, festering agony from an old, hidden wound that refused to scar over. Phlox gave her a weak, pained smile, for it hurt him to know that someone as resilient as Domino had a heart made of glass and that something from her past was still chipping away at it.
His soft gaze and the colors in his irises brought her back to the grotto, that wondrous moment of serenity where pain and pressure didn’t exist. A calming wave gradually washed over her, soothing her burning skin and easing the agitated twitching in her muscles.
“I’m okay,” she breathed shakily. A fib. Phlox didn’t want to cause any more distress, but he decided to press her ever so gently.
“Do you want to talk about it?” He asked, his soft voice full of compassion.
Domino shook her head. “No, I don’t.” It wasn’t the answer he was hoping for, but it was the truth, and that mattered to him most. He would respect that. “But-” she started and Phlox leaned in closer to give her his full attention. The woman looked at the kitchenette once more, biting her lip. “Could we… have our dinner date ‘campfire style’?” She gave him an embarrassed smile. “Maybe we can pick a pretty spot to get a fire going and it’ll give you the chance to snap some more pics while I prepare the stew?”
“Sure!” Phlox grinned enthusiastically. He gave her a wink and opted to tease her a bit to help cut some of the previous tension from the air. “You’re the one who asked me on this date, so the details are up to you. I’m at your mercy, Minnie.”
Domino giggled and Phlox sighed with relief to hear her laughter again. When their eyes met once more, hers were free of tears. She tilted her head when she spotted something in her periphery. “Is that what I think it is?”
The teal hedgehog hurried past Phlox and chuckled with wicked delight as she picked up the item that was resting near the foot of the bed. She spun around and sat down on the mattress, proudly holding up an olive-colored bag. “Did I successfully convince you to join Team Backpack?!”
Phlox looked down at his boots, swinging one leg bashfully. “Yeah, well…” He wanted to say the phrase he had been practicing repeatedly in the hours since he grabbed the pack from the shop: ‘I got this because… I’d like to come with you, if you’ll let me.’ But the words wouldn’t come out. He shrugged and gave himself a bit of grace; being bold was still new to him and after all, Spagonia wasn’t built in a day! “...You can be pretty persuasive.” He walked over and sat next to her. “How’d I do? Does it meet your standards?”
“Let’s see…” Domino turned the bag around in her hands, playfully humming. “Water resistant material… Double passed stitching… Well-padded straps for those brawny shoulders of yours!” Phlox chuckled sheepishly. She unzipped the bag and continued her survey. “Oooh, plenty spacious. This is quite the find, Birdy!”
“Phew, what a relief!” he joked. “Speaking of, are you going to show me your haul?” He thumbed at the bags still resting near the entry. “I noticed the girls picking out some ‘darling’ outfits for you that I’m sure you’re just dying to try on.” He batted his eyelashes in mockery.
“Eh,” Domino grimaced. “The ladies were really sweet and I definitely needed some replacement threads, but I was planning on giving most of that back.”
The smile dropped from Phlox’s face. “Give it back? This isn’t about what that jerk downstairs said, is it?”
“No, no!” The young woman insisted, waving her hands. “I mean, not entirely.” Phlox maintained his serious gaze and sensing he wasn’t going to let it go without an explanation, Domino resigned with a sigh. “I’m grateful for all these gifts, honest! But I can’t-…” she chose her words carefully, an attempt to tell the truth without revealing too much, “...I’ve got a code: Necessities only. I don’t need a lot of this stuff, but that lady wouldn’t let me leave without my hands full!”
Phlox exhaled a laugh through his nose. The irony of this girl who didn’t show a hint of fear when it came to confronting evil giant robots, but was too scared to tell a woman and her daughters ‘No thank you,’ was just too adorable.
“Which is whyyyy~...” Domino grinned, a rascally glint in her blue eyes. “You’re going to help me pull a reverse-heist!”
“Whoa now, why are you roping me into this?” the purple hedgehog laughed.
She placed her hands on her hips. “You said I’m in charge of this date. What we do and where we go is my choice, and I choose phase one of the night to be a backwards-burglary-mission!”
Phlox raised an eyebrow but his smile was filled with mirth. “You do know breaking-and-entering is against the law, even if you’re giving stuff instead of taking stuff, right?”
“Santa does it all the time and I don’t hear anybody complainin’ about him,” Domino quipped. “I won’t make you go in there with me. I’m just asking you to be my lookout. Will you keep an eye out for me?” She went to tap his snout but he swiftly caught her hand within his own.
“I’d rather keep my eyes on you,” he remarked, his voice low and laced with flirty mischief.
His tone and the look in his eyes made Domino gasp. Until now she hadn’t noticed how their fingers had interlaced or how they had leaned into one another so closely she could feel the tickle of Phlox’s breath on her muzzle. She was tempted to pull him in for another kiss, but in the privacy of this room and with the warmth in her lower belly growing stronger with the frequency of these interactions she had to wonder: would it only be a kiss?
Phlox noticed the blush creeping along the woman’s cheeks and he suddenly realized their proximity and the intimate implication of the bed they were sitting on. Alarmed by his own urge to close the gap between them, he reluctantly released her hand and nervously scratched his increasingly crimson muzzle, averting his gaze. “Uh y-yeah, yes,” he sputtered, his usual smooth cadence now quick and broken. “Of course I’ll look out for you.” Before Domino could say anything, Phlox had already made his way to the other side of the room with his hands in his pockets. “So, what’s the plan?”
.
Domino chuckled to herself, recalling how Phlox had been stunned speechless while she effortlessly scaled the wall of the shop and pried open an upper window to let herself in. Once inside, she had quietly whistled a bird call to signal him to toss her the bag of clothes. Then, she neatly piled the garments on top of the cashwrap and, using the notepad she borrowed from Phlox, attached a message expressing her gratitude to the marten family. Domino crawled out through the same window and upon closing it, she let herself fall into Phlox’s arms and they ran off into the forest with hushed, nervous giggles.
Now the two hedgehogs settled quietly into an overlook, the small town a twinkling, insignificant patch compared to the wide open forests that seemed to melt into the night sky. As beautiful as it all was, Domino couldn’t help but think about how this weekend was no different: a small blip in an infinite timeline of events. She anxiously fiddled with the sleeve of her jacket, one of the few gifts she kept from the shop owner. She didn’t really need Phlox’s help returning the rest of the garments, not even as a lookout. Stealth was one of her greatest skills and she could have easily gotten in and out of the shop without anyone ever knowing she was there. But she wanted him there. With her.
With the sun fully set and the stew boiling over the campfire, this brief little adventure was quickly drawing to a close. She would have repaid her debt by supplying Phlox dinner and at first sunlight she’d be gone, never to see him again. Logically, she knew it was for the best, but the thought made her stomach feel more hollow than any amount of starvation had ever done. So she prolonged their time together, even if only for an extra half hour, by having Phlox ‘assist’ her in their silly heist scheme. Despite herself, she was also glad the meal they agreed on would take longer to prepare than others.
“If there was a movie about our escapades, what would it be called?” Phlox asked, attaching his camera to a tripod.
Domino pondered, stoking the fire. “How ‘bout: ‘Young & Stupid: The Do-Gooder Duo’?”
“Mmnnnhh,” the male skewed his lips in disapproval. “Needs some work.”
“Hey, titles aren’t my strong suit, okay?” She huffed, stepping away from the fire and plopping down next to Phlox who was still making adjustments to his camera. “The meat of the story’s more important anyway.”
“Well, you are great at telling stories.” The indigo male smiled and then sniffed the seasonings in the air, licking his lips. “And cooking as well? That stew smells amazing!”
“We’ll see~” Domino rubbed her hands together enthusiastically. “This recipe is tried and true, but I’ve never made it with chiles before.”
She laid onto her back, looking up at the sea of stars and crescent moon. “It’s so dark tonight,” she furrowed her brows and rolled onto her side, propping herself up on her elbow to look at the photographer. “How are you supposed to take any pictures?”
“It’s doable.” Phlox said simply. “You just have to be thoughtful about it. And you have to be very patient.” The woman scrunched up her nose at the word and Phlox laughed. “Hey, spontaneity is a lot of fun too but trust me, patience can be equally rewarding. If I keep the camera steady–hense the tripod–and use a slow shutter speed to allow the lens to capture as much light as possible, it’s just a matter of time before the beauty of the night reveals itself. I can’t rush it.”
Phlox’s heart fluttered at how similarly this technique compared to how he was hoping to slowly ease Domino out of her shell. He hoped the metaphor was not lost on her. He clicked the shutter release button and turned his attention to Domino, a smug expression on his face. “And I am a master of patience.”
“Good, ‘cuz it’s gonna be a couple hours until that stew’s ready,” the lady teased. “How do you wanna pass the time?”
He rubbed the scruff of his muzzle in thought. “Would you tell me another story?”
Domino sat upright, looking out across the vast expanse of the valley below while pondering what tale to weave for him tonight, their last night together… the last story she’d ever tell him. She looked over at him, admiring the care he took to snap the shutter release again and carefully back away from the camera as if his movements might startle it. She adored him, and she hated herself for letting that happen–for tricking him into spending time with a Nobody like her and for believing that maybe, just maybe, he wouldn’t inevitably hurt her, too.
Perhaps it would be better to avoid an adventurous fable that would leave the curious male to want to know the next chapter. Maybe, she thought, she should tell him the most boring, meaningless story she knew.
Her gaze shifted back to the town. “Far away, there lived The Girl Who Had Nothing. But because she didn’t know what it was like to have anything, being without did not dampen her spirits. One day, Fate approached her and told her she needed to give something up. ‘But I have nothing to give,’ The Girl said. ‘You have a father, don’t you?’ And so Fate took her father away. Later, a Man took his place and told The Girl she needed to give something up, again. ‘But… I have nothing to give,’ she insisted. ‘You have joy, don’t you?’ The Man said, and so he took her smile. Then her mother told The Girl she needed to give something up. ‘Please, I have nothing to give you,’ she pleaded. But the mother argued, ‘I gave you my heart, didn’t I? Return it to me.’ And so the Girl did.”
Domino subconsciously reached up and brushed the scarred over rip in her ear.
“Without a home, she wandered the streets and with each new stranger she met, they took more and more from her. ‘But I have nothing to give you!’ The Girl cried, but the townspeople found things they could take. Her dignity. Her pride. Her hope. So at last, The Girl hid herself away in the wild where nobody could find her. If nobody could see her, then they couldn’t take the things she didn’t even know she had.”
Phlox listened with a quiet intensity, a tear rolling down his cheek. His heart broke for her, but equally he was so grateful to her for letting him in on this secret. This moment of pure vulnerability was… monumental. It didn’t make her weak, it only proved how strong she was. Phlox wondered how he could prove to Domino that she was more than she believed, to make her see herself through his eyes.
“But Fate seemed to have a sense of humor… For as she became one with the wilderness, she soon discovered a happiness like she had never known before. Unlike the others who took, The Earth provided. It gave her food to eat and shelter for her to rest. The varying terrains gave her an endless playground where she could freely experience joy. With nothing and nobody to hold her back, she got to make every day an adventure. It took years but she learned to stop thinking about all the things she did not have and focus on all the things she did have. And The Girl Who Had Nothing came to realize that that was … Everything…”
She inhaled deeply and released it, surprised at the weightlessness she felt at this moment. She felt free.
The crackling of the fire masked the soft sound of a shutter clicking. After a pause, Phlox broke the silence. “Well,” he said softly, almost as a whisper. Domino returned her attention back to him and saw that he had adjusted the camera and had snapped a photograph of her. “I think… I might as well quit my career now while I’m ahead,” he looked at her, and though another tear ran down his cheek, he smiled genuinely. “Because I’m certain that was the most beautiful photo I’ll ever take in my life.”
They stared at each other for what felt like an eternity.
Without warning, Domino lunged into him and crashed her lips into his. Phlox briefly stumbled back from shock, but it was only a matter of seconds before he confidently cupped her face in his palms and kissed her back. This wasn’t like the kiss back in the creek, tender and full of bashful smiles. This time Domino was more desperate, pressing into him as if her very life depended on it. Her arms snaked around his neck and she threaded her hands into his quills. Phlox let out a startled hum as the woman pulled him closer, but her assertion was a pleasant surprise and he felt encouraged to slip his arms down to her waist and hold her tightly. Secured to his muscular form, Domino was reminded of how effortlessly he overpowered those metal monsters from before, and she sighed as her mind went to wild, forbidden places.
Feeling her breath on his lips caused him to instinctively open his mouth to hers and deepen the kiss. Domino tugged on his quills at the new sensation and kissed him back even more passionately. Warmth raged throughout her entire body, from the center of her core to her very fingertips. The heat was getting overwhelming so without breaking the kiss she shrugged off her jacket and tossed it aside. The winter air was crisp on her exposed arms but offered little help in cooling her, even with her short pelt. She combed her fingers through Phlox’s chest fur, comparing how thick and dense it was compared to hers. She wondered how he could stand to be so warm and yet she equally wanted to feel him against her completely and bask in all his warmth.
Domino laid back onto the grass, pulling Phlox with her. He braced himself up with one forearm against the ground so as not to crush all of his weight into the small woman, but didn’t allow for any space to come between them. Motivated by her passion, Phlox broke free from her lips only to kiss every bit of the girl that enamored him. He kissed along her jaw, her cheeks, breathing roughly into the tufts of teal that framed her muzzle. His lips grazed down her neck and shoulders, delicately kissing the small scratches from the day’s battle in an attempt to heal them as well as praise her bravery. Domino petted his scruffy cheek that was so red with blush that even the darkness of the night could not hide it, and when he felt the affectionate gesture he turned to kiss her palm and stroked his free hand through her long, windswept quills. Upon one of the passes, his thumb brushed against the tear in her ear. He paused his kisses to look up at the old wound, gently tracing the scarred over flesh. If it were anybody else, Domino would have recoiled from the touch, but here she allowed Phlox to explore. He then leaned over her to kiss her damaged ear and the teal hedgehog let out a wistful, trembling moan. If only for this one moment, she was convinced that his kiss was not only able to physically heal the old injury but also erase the very memory associated with it.
Her fingertips skirted along the edge of his waistline and the fluttering sensation it caused made Phlox gasp and shudder. He lifted himself up just enough to hover over her to meet her gaze, his eyes wide.
Domino knew that the question that was lingering on the edge of her tongue was stupid and reckless, but at this moment she didn’t care about that. Her entire methodology was about prioritizing needs, and what was this aching and excruciating hunger in her core if not one of the most natural, most powerful needs? She noted Phlox’s ragged breathing, how his broad chest and shoulders rose and fell as he panted, and how his quills stiffened and his fur stood on end with exhilaration, and she could tell that he felt the need, too. So despite the consequences, she summoned the courage to ask the most wonderful, handsome being she’d ever met for the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
“Do you wanna…?”
She didn’t finish her sentence, but Phlox understood what she was asking. He knew the wise thing to do would be to say no. Heck, the mere fact she wasn’t willing to say it out loud meant they were probably too naive and inexperienced for this. But maybe he didn’t need to be wise, for once. He was young; still figuring out life, learning what it meant to live in the moment. And now, as if by fate, he found this beautiful young lady, the living embodiment of free-spirit. She represented so much of what he aspired to be, what he was hoping to discover in himself when he first embarked on this journey. Sure he didn’t know her that well yet, but he wanted to know her fully. Maybe she’d let him, with time. But they had right now.
Besides, this girl may have had a habit of fibbing, but Phlox certainly didn’t. The truth came naturally to him.
“Yes.”
♥ ♥ ♥
After one last check to make sure all of her supplies were accounted for, Domino quietly zipped up her backpack and swung it onto her shoulder. The early morning sky was just beginning to shift in hues as the rising sun sat just below the horizon. It was time to hit the road in order to outrun the approaching winter and go wherever her feet took her. There was only one last thing to do…
Careful not to make a sound, Domino sat down at the dining table and flipped through Phlox’s notebook to find an empty page. The pencil hovered over the paper in her trembling hand.
What could she possibly write?
She had briefly toyed with the idea of not writing anything at all, but that thought made her even more sick to her stomach. She looked over to the purple hedgehog sleeping soundly under the covers, a gentle, barely-there smile on his muzzle. Even though she believed it was in her heart’s best interest for her to leave now and even though she hoped he would soon forget about her, she also deeply believed she was a better person for having met him. She had to express her gratitude, at least.
After a few scratched out attempts, the page was left with a simple message:
Dear Phlox, I want you to know I hope that you Thank you, for making me better than when you found me. - Domi - Minnie
She pressed her back to the door, allowing herself one last look at Phlox and praying that that gentle smile would never leave his face. Quietly, she slipped out of the room before she could change her mind.
Leave things better than when she found them.
That was her creed. It was better to leave now. Leave before he discovered the truth behind the boring, insignificant runaway. Instead, leave him happy with perhaps a couple of fleeting, fond memories of a girl he’d forget soon enough. After all…
It was only a couple of days.
[Next: EPILOGUE]
#my fanfiction#my fanfics#my fics#my work#my au#my ocs#domino the hedgehog#phlox the hedgehog#dominoXphlox#sonic's parents#sonic the hedgehog#sth#sonic trash#fan fiction#fan fic#phloxino#sonicparents#YoungXStupid
25 notes
·
View notes
Text
Jacuzzi tub
| Father in law! Joel miller
3.8k words
a/n:same thing as the last chapter I started out with a different idea hated it so I deleted the whole thing and popped this out quicker than the last thing I was working on. I just wanna say THANK YOU for the love on the last part I had lots fun writing it. probably the next thing I write I’ll take a vote cause I have too many ideas but no where to start.
⚠️: infidelity!!!,father in law!Joel Miller, faking an orgasm, f!masturbation, one mention of m!masturbation, very generous and absolutely hot mentions of joel gaining a few extra pounds(I love a man with a big meaty body), recorded sex, they quite literally have sex in front of her husband!! his son!!, cucking?, one mention of pussy slapping, descriptive and sloppy m!oral, f!oral, Joel dirty talking and just being outta pocket, cream pie, unprotected pinv
In the fours years of you being with Walker you’ve never faked an orgasm, but now in the past few nights you’ve faked it three times. Your greedy cunt just missing the feeling of Joel, your father in law, who took advantage of you a couple days ago. Well…you kind of stopped him…but you kind of didn’t. You never filmed with Walker that night when he got home.
“I’m sorry baby I just have a headache right now.”
You can only use that excuse for so long, so now your ankles are on his shoulders and his eyes are locked on you while you’re trying your best to look interested, faking moans, and rolling your eyes back. It hurts that you have to act this way to your husband that you love so much but you’ve got a taste for his father. Joel hasn’t been over at all leaving you alone with your thoughts on the whole situation. As your in your head Walkers’ thrusts begin to get frantic, pumping into you faster, his neck and face getting red as he starts spills inside of you. He pulls out and falls besides you eyes shutting immediately he’s asleep now.
You can feel him beginning to spill out of you so you get up and head to the bathroom to take a bath. As you’re waiting for the tub to fill up you sit and just look at the tub itself. It’s a jacuzzi tub. a wedding gift from Joel to you. The house never came with a bath but after very little convincing Joel was happy to install one for you right next to the shower. He spent a couple months remodeling the bathroom around to give you what you wanted. The sounds of him laboring away while you were a couple rooms over editing videos for your onlyfans. To thank Joel for your bathroom everyday you made him lunch and baked him lots of sweets.
As the water rises above the jets you flip them on, the humming of them kicking on causing water to bubble up. Slowly stepping in letting your body get used to the hot temperatures before sinking in. You add a little bubble bath and let it foam up around you. The tension around your neck begins to let up and your shoulders start to relax. As you sit in the bath you think more about your twisted situation with Joel, you want it to disgust you, to make you want to cry, and confess to your husband but you can’t. There’s just a tingle between your legs as you sit in the tub he installed just for you.
When he finished installing the tub he came downstairs to see you in the kitchen, wrapped up in a ‘kiss the cook’ apron, your arms and hands covered in flour as you were making him a pie from scratch to thank him. You look up at him and notice him staring at you but thinking more about that moment you take notice in how you’re cooking has made him gain a few extra pounds, sending him home with dinner and dessert nearly every night. It came to a point where he had to stop you because even he began to take notice in how his shirts fit just a little tighter and the extra hole he poked with his knife into his belt.
“Look what you’re doing to me darlin’ “ he says as he sits on the couch unbuckling his belt, then unbuttoning his pants letting a bit of his gut come out from as he takes a deep breath.
Your mind comes back to you in the tub and the jet that poking right into your lower back is about to get used for something else right now. You turn around and align yourself with the water being pushed out at a firm pressure. You scoot closer your knees spreading into the porcelain tub, your hands grab at the rim of the tub holding yourself level with the jet. Your buck your hips forward and the jet pulses right into your cunt. You moan out in shock and grip the edge of tub tighter in your hands. Hips bucking over the jet to start a rhythm, your thighs beginning to shake one hand lets go of the tub and grab at your chest, taking your nipple in between your fingers pulling ever so slightly at it
Your mind going right back to Joel sitting on your couch legs spread, pants undone, one hand holding a beer and the other bent behind his head. He looked so goddamn good that night. Now your mind can’t help but think about how the night could’ve gone different if you just straddled his big thighs and slowly grounded yourself into him. You imagine he’d just watch you on top of him, still in his lax state maybe even taking va sip of his beer while you go crazy on his jean covered lap. Your feet start to ache from the pointed state they are in but your orgasm is so close you can feel it. you close your eyes breathing from your mouth, the heat of the water causing a couple beads of sweat to roll down your temple. Slowly rocking yourself into the jet the water begins to slosh around. Like a chant, your mind just screams Joel. At this point you can’t help but think about him and how’d he look if you rode him. The way his face would contort, the noises he’d make, and the dirty filthy things he’d say about you.
Something along the lines of ‘cock hungry housewife’ or ‘his slutty daughter in law’
Your knees try to shut by themself as you begin to ride out your orgasm. Your hands holding tight onto the edge of the tub, you feel like you’ll float away if you let go. As you reach your peak Joel’s cocky smile flashes behind your eyes and you can’t help but let his name escape your lips making the infidelity seem so real now. Your knees drop and you’re a panting mess, pressing the top of your body into the cold tub you just dangle your arms over the tub and catch your breath. Praying and hoping to god Walker didn’t hear you moan his fathers name.
The bath water goes cold by the time you get out. Giving your legs a break from the beating they took from you and the jet. Slipping your robe on and slowly opening the bathroom door, peaking around to see your husband, leg dangling off the bed and his face shoved into the pillow. He heard nothing. The lump in your throat subsides, for now, as you slip into bed. Checking your phone you left on the nightstand you see two texts from Joel. One an attachment and another a text. Your heart races as you unlock your phone and press on his notification.
My third time today jerking off, can’t stop thinking about your tight pussy
It’s a picture of him watching porn. By the way he’s taking the picture it seems like he has his phone very close to his face as he shows his bare.. hairy… meaty thighs and his cock hard as can fucking be. When your eyes make contact with it, you flip your phone screen down into the blanket trying to think if you saw that correctly. Raising it back up you look at his angry red tip and the ropes of cum in his open hand on his thigh. Your eyes race all over the picture and you make out what he was watching. Your fingers pinch the screen to zoom in and the screen says.. daughter in law is an easy fuck!!
———
You slept with your phone clutched close to you last night, scared that Joel was going to send another text and Walker was going to look at it.
By the time you wake up it’s a little after 10 in the morning. Walker has a dentist appointment today and you told him to wake up so you could take him but he loves letting you just sleep in. Your mind races a million miles a minute as you look at your phone and see that he’s going to ask his father to pick him up and drop him off. Do you get ready? do you wear a lot or very little clothing? do you do your makeup? First you decide to brush your teeth and comb your hair but somewhere along the way you started doing your makeup, mascara, eyeliner, and a pair of lashes. If you were going to see Joel you were going to look good.
Not knowing what to do with yourself you decide to just sit on the couch and wait for Walker and Joel. Ten minutes of twiddling your thumbs later and Joel’s truck pulls up in the driveway. Leaping off the couch and going to the window peaking a little from behind the blinds to see Joel rushing to the passenger side door as Walker, who looks absolutely drugged up, opens the door body dangling out. You watch Joel be soft with the boy, grabbing his hands, steadying his body against the truck as Joel grabs his medicine. It’s a tender moment and even with what happened between the two of you he loves his son, his only kid, he’ll always love him. You open the door and Walker pushes himself off his father and onto you engulfing you in a big hug that pushes you back a little.
“My wife! Ah..god I love saying that,” Joel grabs him off you and walks him further into the house. “I want to go upstairs! I want to make love to my wife!” Walker demands to his father, causing your face to go red, you can feel the heat rise off your body when Joel snickers a little at that comment. Joel just grabs his sons arm and drapes it over his shoulder as they walk side by side up the stairs. He kicks the door open with his dirty boot and then drops his son spread on the bed. Within seconds Walkers’ eyes begin to close but you’re quick to get him comfortable before he can pass out from the drugs. Joel goes back downstairs and a few moments later returns with a beer in his hand and Walkers medicine in the other.
“Doc said his mouth gauze needs to be changed every three hours.” Taking a big sip of the beer as he tosses the bag on the bed. The bottle leaves his lips, a line of saliva keeping him connected to the bottle, causing him to swipe his tongue across his bottom lip. it’s almost like an invitation for you to do something. His eyes wonder from you then to the bathroom right at the tub he installed.
“You liking the tub?” He begins to walk closer to you, the neck of the bottle being held by his thick fingers. You rise from Walkers side staring right into Joel’s eyes. “I remember when you asked me to install it,” his fingers coming up to push back some of the hair in your face. “I agreed happily cause I knew you’d be rubbing your pussy against the jet.” Your breath hitches in your throat and Joel takes notice in that your reaction making him chuckle. “Goddamn dirty slut!” His words echoing through the room, Walker snoring lightly besides y’all.
“I made myself cum on it last night.” It comes out of you so honestly that you can’t think about why you said it until after it sits in the air. He sets the empty bottle on the night stand and notices your wedding ring there as well. You wanted this and he sees that, it sends a bolt of electricity through his chest.
“Take off my clothes.” He tells you and you comply not really needing to be told twice or at all, you want him bare, you want to see his body and all the age and history it holds. Every scar and bruise you want to kiss, to run your tongue down his chest, over his stomach. The salty taste of him on the tip of your tongue as you run it down his peppered happy trail.
Falling to your knees quick, small hands tugging at his belt, to pull it out in one swoop and then unbuttoning his pants, your hand tries to push itself inside his boxers but he just grabs at your wrist shaking his head. “Gotta work for it, bitch.” You’re so taken back by him saying that but he keeps you in check by grabbing your face with one hand, squeezing your cheeks tightly with his fingers. “Daddy didn’t tell you to stop did he?” It’s crazy how you’re eating this shit up right now.
Joel’s lips smash into your squished face, his hand moving from your face to your throat applying light pressure to the sides with his thumb and pointer finger. He pulls away and his eyes are black with lust at this point, your face is burning up you can feel your wetness beginning to seep out the sides of your panties, the cold wood floor keeping your body from engulfing in flames. Your husband, his son asleep right next to y’all.
“G’head you ain’t done with me yet, sweetheart.” You stand back up and grab the edge of his shirt pulling it off his chest and over his arms, his salt and peppered chest hair sits so nicely spread in the middle of his tan pecs. A bit of his stomach rolling over his boxers, god he’s look so fucking hot, so…big, so..delicious. You grab his face in your hands and press your lips hard back into his, he slips his tongue inside your mouth, an animalistic urge takes over you as you bite down on the appendage. He pulls back and lets out a low growl his thumbs snaking down to hook into his boxers as he lets them slide down his thick thighs. His cock coming out and slapping against his lower stomach.
“G’me my phone,” he holds his hand out and you grab it from his pile of clothes and hand it to him. He swipes it open and then holds it above his stomach the back camera pointing right at you. “don’t get shy on me now.” He says and you give him an evil smile as you begin to tie your hair back ready to give him the sloppiest head in his life. Your hands holds his cock straight your tongue swirling around the tip before you pull back and spit right at it using the spit as lube in your hand.
You take him back in your mouth going fully down your nose getting tickled by the mound of pubic hair on him. He moans out as you let him rest in the back of your throat swallowing around the tip. He grabs the back of your messy ponytail with his free hand and pulls you off him, lines of spit connecting his cock to your mouth. You look at the camera and give it a little giggle before you go back to sucking, your hand jerks the rest of him while you take just the tip, you pull moan after moan from him it’s music to your ears to hear him like this. His hand goes back to your ponytail pushing you deeper onto him earning gags to come from your throat.
“This girl right here is my daughter in law, look at the way she sucks cock, her father in laws cock.” His praise just eggs you on to give the camera a real show one that they’ve never seen with your husband. Your hands grab at his ass as you push him deeper into your throat, you stay still for a few seconds just breathing through your nose as you moan on his cock. You finally pull back when you feel like you can’t breathe anymore. Lines of spit falling from your mouth, you look up at the camera and breathe through your mouth causing spit bubbles to rise and pop.
He pulls you up by your armpit and walks you to the edge of the bed where he tosses you like laundry onto it. Joel pushes walkers legs to his side of the bed and lays you back further on it. His upper half of his body is resting on the bed while one leg steadies himself he grabs your legs and motions them over his shoulders while he lowers his head down to your wet cunt. He licks a stripe up you, you let out a lewd moan at the contact of his tongue on you. His lips kiss at your clit, sucking lightly rubbing it between his lips. Your hands grab at the phone that’s still recording, you hold it steady as you capture him eating you out happily. His head moves back as his hand comes around to pull back your mound exposing your clit to the cold bedroom air. The tip of his tongue just assaults your clit relentlessly. Your moans getting louder and louder, you spread your arm reaches out and you accidentally to touch Walker, you recoil your free hand back into Joel’s hair.
Greedy hands push his head into you, slowly grinding yourself into his mouth. He moves his head away this time hand coming down to slap your clit. Your mouth gapes open you want to scream from the contact but your hand just goes over your mouth.
“Greedy girls get punished, don’t do it again otherwise you won’t cum.” You dare not toy with him because you know he’ll stop. The thought of being edged sounds fun but not when you’ve been craving Joel for three days now. His hand grabs the phone as he pushes himself up to his knees he moves closer to you your legs going around his waist to pull him in. He lines himself up with you and slowly pushes in the camera getting in close to capture your hungry cunt taking his whole thick length. You take a breath when he bottoms out he slowly begins moving.
“Fucking hell-‘ he hisses out as he slowly starts to move.” She’s sucking me back in.” He’s referring to your pussy that’s clenching so hard around him. You want him to always be inside of you, while you wash the dishes, while you cook, you know that Joel has a home office maybe one day you can go over while he works and just sit on his cock. His pace gets faster and faster the bed staring to shake from his thrusts.
“Already creamin’ on me darlin’.” His accent sounds like melted honey in your ears, Walker does his best to conceal his accent, but not Joel he embraces his Texan roots and you find the southern charm irresistible. “Mmm, darlin’ you are sweeter than your pies.” His thumb rubbing small circles in your clit stops as he licks the spent from his finger. You can feel your burning orgasm coming you feel like you’re going to explode.
He pulls out of you quickly causing you to whine at the loss. He grabs your thigh and flips you around making you stare right at Walker who’s still passed out. Your ass is hiked up in the air Joel pressing himself back into you and starting up his ruthless pace. “Fuck look at that ass shaking.” He says and a hard slap lands on your ass, your mouth biting into the comforter to stop any noise from coming out but the sound of skin on skin defeats the purpose.
“Daddy-please let me cum!” You whine out between his thrusts, the tip of his dick hitting your cervix each time. He drops his phone down on the bed, one hand on your hip and the other coming around your thigh to press your stomach in feeling his cock rub against your insides. You’re drooling at this point so cock drunk that you can’t help what you say or do next.
“Cum in me again daddy, put a fucking baby in me!” You scream out and who is Joel to deny the request of a beautiful woman. He thrusts into you faster then let’s out an echoing moan as he spills inside on you. The feeling of him blowing his load is enough to send you over the edge. Screaming into the comforter as he thrusts his cum deeper inside of you. He pulls out and falls on your side of the bed. Walker, his wife, and his father all in the same bed it’s a twisted fucking scene for sure. You try to move but your legs feel stuck just scooting up the bed right in the middle of them.
“I’ve been faking my orgasms for the past couple nights.” You tell him bluntly, you tell him like it’s his fault because is it. He’s ruined you for your husband and he knows it. You’ve also ruined him, how is he supposed to go back to having pussy from a rando. He wants his daughter in law, his kinky daughter in law who sucks and fucks like his own personal pornstar.
“Well when you feel like that darlin, just break something and you know I’ll be over in a heartbeat, just for you.” Walker begins to move around groaning at the pain that’s coming from his mouth that causes Joel to get up and begin getting dressed. You sit up and begin to take care of your husband. Joel gives you a light whistle as you take the bloody gauze out of walkers mouth your head turning to look at the door. He gives you a wink and blows you a kiss then walks out the door leaving you with your husband once again.
———
Like, comment, reblog, validate me 🫶🏻
0808
429 notes
·
View notes
Text
Things Biden and the Democrats did, this week. #5
Feb 9-16 2024
The Department of Education released the first draft for a wide ranging student loan forgiveness plan. After Biden's first attempt at student debt forgiveness was struck down at the Supreme Court in 2023, this new plan is an attempt to replace it with something that will hold up in court. The plan hopes to forgive debt for anyone facing "financial hardship" which has been as broadly defined as possible. Another part of the plan hopes to eliminate $10-20,000 in interest from all student loans, as well as a wide ranging public Information push to inform people of other forgiveness programs they qualify for but don't know about.
The House passed 1.2 Billion Dollars to combat human trafficking, including $175 million in housing assistance to human trafficking victims
The Department of Transportation announced $970 Million for improvements at 114 airports across 44 states and 3 territories. They include $40 million to O'Hare International in Chicago to improve passenger experience by reconfiguring TSA and baggage claims, and installing ADA compliant bathrooms(!). The loans will also go to connecting airports to mass transit, boosted sustainability, installing solar and wind power, and expanding service to under served committees around the country.
Medicare & Medicaid released new guidelines to allow people to pay out of pocket prescription drug coats in monthly installments rather than as a lump sum. This together with capping the price of certain drugs and penalties for drug companies that rise prices over inflation is expected to save the public millions on drug coasts and assure people don't pass on a prescription because they can't pay upfront
The EPA announced its adding 150 more communities to its Closing America's Wastewater Access Gap Community Initiative. 2.2 Million Americans do not have basic running water and indoor plumbing. Broken and unreliable wastewater infrastructure exposed many of those to dangerous raw sewage. These Americans live primarily in poor and rural communities, many predominantly Black communities in the south as well as those on tribal lands. The program is aiming to close the wastewater gap and insure all Americans have access to reliable clear water.
The White House announced deferred action for Palestinians in the US. This means any Palestinian living in the United States, no mater their legal status, can not be deported for any reason for the next 18 months.
The Department of Energy announced $60 million in investment into clean geothermal energy. The plan will hopefully lead to a 90% decrease in the coasts of geothermal. DOE estimates hold that geothermal might be able to power the hopes of 65 million Americans by 2050 making it a key step in the Biden administration plan for a carbon-free grid by 2035 and net-zero emissions by 2050.
The EPA launched $83 million to help improve air quality monitoring across America. With updated equipment local agencies will be better able to report on air quality, give more localized reports of bad air quality and the country will be better equipped to start mitigating the problem
The Department of Energy announced $63 million in investments in domestic heat-pump manufacturing. Studies have shown that heat-pumps reduce green house gases by 50% over the most efficient condensing gas boilers, as technology improves this could rise to 75% by 2030. Heat pump water heaters meanwhile are 2 to 3 times as energy efficient as conventional electric water heaters.
HHS awarded $5.1 million to organizations working with LGBTQI+ Youth and their Families. The programs focus on preventing homelessness, fighting depression and suicide, drug use and HIV prevention and treatment, as well as family counseling and support interventions tailored for LGBTQI+ families.
The House passed two bills in support of the oppressed Uyghur minority in China. The "No Dollars To Uyghur Forced Labor" Act would prohibit the US government from spending any money on projects that source materials from Xinjiang. The Uyghur Policy Act would create a permanent post at the State Department to coordinate policy on Uyghur Issues, much like the special ambassador on antisemitism.
#Joe Biden#Thanks Biden#politics#US politics#Democrats#climate change#student loans#student loan forgiveness#green energy#Palestinians#Uyghur
214 notes
·
View notes
Text
°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。
- ̥۪͙۪˚┊❛ Better Half (Sukuna Version)❜┊˚ ̥۪͙۪◌
Premise: Nobara forced Yuuji to stop by a food stand every time they came back from a mission. The girl working there always entranced the youngster, causing his teammates to tease him more than usual. An odd encounter brings her a little too close to Sukuna who ends up just as smitten as his counterpart with the young beauty. Which half will get her heart? Only time will tell.
Word Count: 2334
Note: you can read the first installment of this story here ☺️
══✿══╡°˖✧✿✧˖°╞══✿══
Sukuna Ryomen, the king of curses…nobody would have pegged him for a romantic really…but the fact that he hasn’t stopped thinking about the soft squishy cheeks of that human girl might make you think otherwise.
While Yuuji had been sulking about the fact that you were somehow also attracted to Sukuna, the king himself has been basking in his glorious triumph.
Specially with the way you looked at him like he was the hottest guy in the universe, in all truth, he knew he was, always known, his vessel was unimportant, but getting it recognized by such a fine piece of art such as yourself made his ego boost to the rooftop.
While he didn’t like being inside of Itadori and wished to take over Megumi at some point, he started to consider that maybe it wasn’t as bad to inhabit him for the time being, you did like the idiot, so he might as well make good use of his resources.
══✿══╡°˖✧✿✧˖°╞══✿══
The next morning Yuuji wasn’t feeling like himself, he kept on appearing in places he didn’t try to visit, with no recollection of how he even got there. It was an unsettling feeling specially how each time he did he was closer and closer to your place of work.
He knew this had to be related to Sukuna and he didn’t like it one bit.
Yuuji tried to let his friends know of what was happening, try to get you out of there before you would get even more involved in the world of curses, but Megumi and Nobara both had been assigned to a quick mission with Gojo sensei and didn’t tell him about it to give him time to feel better with himself.
He was on his own and he needed to get you to safety.
Running over to the crepe stand, he noticed it wasn’t open yet, it was still too early and all the shops around were as closed as yours.
His blood kept pumping through his entire body, he looked up and down the street like a lost puppy hoping to get a glimpse of your beautiful face as soon as possible. But the moment he did, his body turned off again, welcoming the king himself.
“Well hello there, my queen~ Looking rather fine as usual…” his eyes were eating you up like a pastry, you could see the evil and lust full glint of his eyes from meters away.
“You’re early today~” offering him a sweet smile, you went by to get the locks open.
“Let me help you with that, gorgeous. No need to get on your knees, yet…” his smirk gave you the chills, he was so hungry for you, you could feel it all the way to your bones, but somehow you were not mad at it in the slightest.
He went on his knees and got all the locks opened up for you in no time, your stand ready for a day’s work in less than half the time it would have normally take.
“Such a gentleman~” you laid a hand on one of his ridiculously well built muscly arms as you made your way inside to get your apron on. “Would you like a breakfast crepe? It’s my specialty~”
“Oh my dear, I want more than a little snack from you….but if your lovely hands get to do it, I guess I wouldn’t mind having one…” his words never failed to make you giggle, this eccentric and sexy side of him was so different from the other one, yet so enticing, made you want to get to know him better.
As you turn on the iron grill and prepare the ingredients, you decide to test the waters, “So…Itadori-kun…can you…tell me whats up with your changes in mood? Don’t think I mind them, I just want to understand you a bit better…” your tone was soft, sweet, really understanding and inviting, while Yuuji would have love that, he didn’t. Sukuna didn’t want you to think of him as pathetic little Itadori, he wanted you to see him for who he truly was, and that meant breaking down for you the dark truth of this world.
“I’m not him, that’s it..” you waited for him to elaborate, your theory of him having double personality now becoming stronger.
“I’m Sukuna Ryomen, the king of curses. Just happen to be living inside this crappy teenager body…but I’m so much better than him in every way, babe, trust me on that.” his confident tone gave you goosebumps, but of the good kind, his voice was so sexy and the way he seemed to be undressing you with his eyes as you cooked was certainly not helping.
“A curse? Does that mean you’re some sort of spirit living in him? Or are you another soul trapped in the same body?” you were clever, more than he expected. Humans usually tend to laugh and think of this sort of things as jokes, but you didn’t treat him like he was crazy, you were seriously trying to grasp the situation and understand him fully.
“You could say it’s a bit of both. Curses aren’t really spirits but an amalgamation of cursed energy harbored by negative emotions humans tend to have…” for the first time in his very long lived life, he was terrified of scaring someone off, he didn’t want you to give him the cold shoulder, to see him like a freak, and he has never had such a wish before.
“Negative emotions…does that mean Itadori-kun is depressed and brought you out?”
“Not really, he kind of…took me in willingly, of course he didn’t really know what he was getting himself into…” you didn’t seem to back off, contrary to what he thought it would happen you seemed fascinated with everything he had to say.
“So you have nothing to do with Itadori-kun then. Is that why your voice is so deep and you get those fancy tattoos?”
“Precisely, we are completely different beings. He’s just a mere vessel, I am the king of curses, the most powerful being out there. And you, my little dove, happen to tick all the boxes for the queen spot right beside me~”
Your giggles were killing him, he’s never been this attracted to anyone, let alone a human. You weren’t just the cutest little thing, but incredibly hot too. His blood kept going south every few minutes, his body becoming all twitchy every time you made one of your cute little sounds.
“I’m just a part-timer who happens to make good crepes. How does that make me a queen candidate?”
“I’ve never wished for a queen before. There’s nobody stronger than me, hence pleasing me is not an easy task. But you, my flower, just the sight of you gets me as high as never before…” your blushing increased tenfold, you could literally feel how aroused he was and in all honesty you had no idea how to handle a man like that, even worse… a curse like that…
“So you like my face? Is that it?” trying to force the situation down a notch, you handed him his breakfast crepe and got to your cleaning duties.
“Your face? Oh no, my darling. Your soul, your body…everything about you is so damn delicious…I could see myself enjoying every single crease of your body for all eternity…” you weren’t expecting someone to comment on how good your soul seemed to taste, it was quite frankly terrifying, yet arousing at the same time. You’ve never been wanted with such intensity, made you feel empowered, important, special.
“Oh yeah? That does sound like fun, I admit. But you aren’t always yourself, are you? I’ve seen Itadori out more often than you.”
“You’re not wrong, my dove, you're quite observant. I’m gearing up to take over him completely, I just didn’t have the need or even the motivation to do so until I met you…I don’t want this pathetic human pawing at whats mine…” his cold tone full of hatred and disgust shook you to your core, while you’ve been hearing all he had to say, you didn’t fully understand how dangerous he was until this moment.
“So what happens to Itadori-kun if you’re out all the time?”
“Why do you care? Do you like him more than you like me? Do you like the empty headed weakling who doesn’t have an ounce of talent without my powers?” he was scowling now, his voice raising by the second making you feel weak in more than one way.
But your answer was definite, quick, simple, “No.” and that was all it took to get his anger under control.
“Was just wondering…”
A wide smirk adorned his handsome features once more as he leaned against the windowsill, “Well if you must know, he will disappear once I take over, at least until I switch bodies…How do you feel about the Fushiguro boy? Don’t you think he’s way more of an attractive vessel?”
His words made you freeze, your answer could easily ruin someone’s life, but also save another.
“The raven haired friend of his?”
“Yeah, he’s a masterpiece, some would say he’s the perfect vessel, I’ve been eyeing him for a while, but you seem attach to this one…”
“Hm, he is cute. But I met you with this face, it would be a bit awkward if you were to switch faces completely, if that makes sense…”
“It does, I expected as much. For now I’ll stay in Itadori, but I’m sure I’ll get you convinced in no time that he’s better.”
He was done eating, though no other customer had shown ever since, you started thinking it was probably his doing as this was usually peak time for your business.
“So... Sukuna?” he nodded proudly, tingles running al over his body once he heard his real name flowing from those delicious looking lips of yours.
“You said you wanted to take me to hell with you, was that literal? Or you just meant me going with you in general?” your curious nature was delightful.
“Eventually the place you know as your home will be nothing but a charred pile of ashes, curses will roam freely, humans will no longer be the superior race…When that time comes, you’d have a place right by my side, on my throne, ruling over all of them, curses and humans alike…” it sounded like an awful future for human race, yet it somehow didn’t feel like he was bullshitting you.
The whole curses thing was starting to be a bit too real for you and while you couldn’t really see them, the fact that human’s despair could turn to deadly creatures of the night sounded more possible than it should.
“Shouldn’t someone more important sit with the king himself? I’m nothing special…”
“Are you questioning me?” his tone was going back to its cold nature the more you talked, “Because seems to me like you think you have an option…I’m not asking you, my dove, I’m telling you what the future is going to look like.”
“So I don’t have a choice then…” your voice didn’t sound defeated in the slightest, nor there was a hint of fear in it, and he liked it.
“The king has spoken? Is that it?”
“Something like that.”
To this statement you just nodded, accepting your fate was better than getting in troubles. He did seem like he wants to treasure in his own very peculiar way and it’s not like this par- time job could do more than help paying your bills.
“Do you have books on curses or something? I would like to get to know more about what I’m getting myself into, unlike Itadori. If I have to be a queen, I might as well be a good one. Right?” your sweet smile had come back, he was positively glittering with excitement at this point. It’s not like you had a choice, he would take you regardless of anything you had to say, but the fact that you were taking this so well made him fill up with pride, brimming with hope.
And that was new.
Hope is the very opposite of cursed energy, he was literally defying his own existence by taking in his ball of sunshine under his wing.
But if a curse deserved a happy ending, it certainly had to be the king of them, right?
“Itadori might have some in his room, he does go to a sorcery school after all. I’ll look into it for you, my love.”
You just nodded, inching closer to his face, “My king…”
His entire world collapsed right there, while nobody can control him, and never will, you certainly knew how to make him feel weak…and somehow he didn’t hate it…
“I’ll pick you up by nightfall, babe…prepare yourself for the night of your life, I ain’t holding back…” giving you a little whiff, his time outside came to an end, a very confused Itadori was left looking at you up close, closer than never before.
“(Y/N)…? Are you ok? Oh my god…why am I here…?” you just caressed his face in a loving tender manner, he was your love’s vessel after all, and you’d take care of him just as much.
“It’s ok sweet stuff. You’re fine, I’m fine. Are you hungry?” and with that, he turned into a puddle of goo forgetting the whole reason he was there in the first place, maybe having Sukuna making you swoon wasn’t so bad after all.

°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。°。
Previous Chapter Masterlist
#jujutsu kaisen#jjk#jjk x reader#fluff#angst#slow burn#jjk x you#jjk fluff#yuji itadori#itadori x reader#jujutsu itadori#jjk itadori#yuuji x reader#jjk yuuji#itadori fluff#itadori x you#itadori x y/n#jujutsu fluff#jujutsu x reader#jujutsu sorcerer#jujutsu kaisen x reader#sukuna#sukuna ryomen#sukuna x reader#sukuna x you#sukuna x y/n#love triangle
98 notes
·
View notes