#actress wedding nose ring

[anonymoushouseplantfan]

You know what's crazy is in the US like they didn't know Meghan the actress but then they kinda got to know Meghan the Duchess in waiting and thanks to SS that was a success cos it got her the ring and the wedding and then I'm guessing in the US unless you follow the RD closely and know their day to day work you won't have really known Meghan the Duchess (not that she did much but hey ho) and so when they loved to the US that was the perfect time to launch her Meghan the Duchess brand and start a fresh and instead she immediately started talking 💩 about them and causing non stop drama so I'm surprised that they're surprised their tactics didn't work in launching them in any kind of significant way in the US.

I don't think they would have ever or will ever get where she feels she deserves to be in life but they could have made a decent living and maintained some kind of royal connection by attending TTC and coronations and other royal events had they not immediately launched an attack the second they were out.

I don't think anyone or anything has harmed their brand more than themselves.

They're the definition of cutting your nose off to spite your face, they built themselves up as the best royals to ever royal and then immediately shattered the illusion people had of what being royalty is actually like - its like bringing out your own perfume and then immediately telling people perfume sucks and you should never use it cos its bad for you 🤣🤣

That’s why the Netflix series and the book were the beginning of the end for them. Before those were released Hollywood thought they would have a workable pair of pseudo-royals to work with. Even if relations with the family broke down behind the scenes, it wouldn’t take much to keep up the illusion of a royal connection-a dinner with Eugenie then a short visit to England with “private” events leaked to the press and an appearance at a family event once in a while. That’s all it would take.

But the bitterness revealed in the book and the documentary shattered that illusion. That’s why the “reconciliation pr” they are putting out now about Will “having” to forgive his brother and Harry being “brave” at the coronation is not gaining traction. None of it is believable after Spare. They showed who they really are and, like you say, the people they harmed the most was themselves.

[smolvenger]

A Court of Mischief and Purpose Chapter Nine (Loki x fem! Reader Series, A Court of Thorns and Roses Hiddlesverse AU)

Series Summary: Sarah J Maas's A Court of Thorns and Roses series reimagined with Tom Hiddleston's various characters- Especially the events in the second book: A Court of Mist and Fury. England. 1885. You are dying of tuberculosis right before your upcoming wedding to the Lusty Vicar of Aldwinter, Will Ransome. As you lay on what could be your deathbed, the god of mischief Loki appears before you with a deal. He will heal you in time for the wedding...if you spend a week of every month with him.

Chapter Summary: The Weaver strikes. And a signal is given from Jonathan...as Stella enters the world of Asgard with you. Then, finally, the circle moves to Vanaheim to begin to locate the spellbook.

Chapter Word Count: 7K

Chapter Warnings: Discussions of kidnapping and attempted sexual assault and harassment, but no actual attack, and the victim gets saved. Violence and some blood. Thirst, but no smut. Jealousy. And we get some cameos from of course Crimson Peak and the characters of the Loki show!

Series Masterlist

A03//My Ko-Fi//My Etsy Shop//Masterlist//Wattpad

Taglist: @asgards-princess-of-mischief @jennyggggrrr @five-miles-over @fictive-sl0th @ladycamillewrites @villainousshakespeare @holdmytesseract @eleniblue @twhxhck @lokisgoodgirl @lovelysizzlingbluebird @raqnarokr @holymultiplefandomsbatman @michelleleewise @wolfsmom1 @cheekyscamp @mochie85 @fandxmslxt69

You could have pissed yourself from the way her nose tilted towards you and smiled before she ran at you again. Like a hungry cat finding an injured mouse beneath a trap. She reached her hands forward, her nails seeming like claws. Screaming at last you dodged the attack again. You ran over to another place in the room. She was quick, listening to your every move. Her white nightgown making her look all the more ghostly. Beautiful and Terrible.

The Weaver charged at you. Her eyes, free of pupils, yet at you. Her smile was already so wide, teeth bared, ready to bite into you. You narrowly dodged her yet she landed on her feet. Perhaps you could use your fire magic? No! Not in a wooden cottage! You would burn this cottage down! Blast it!

“Delicious-delicious morsel,” she grinned at you. She turned around and in a heartbeat she grabbed your wrist and arm, twisting it.

“Thomas! Thomas help!” you cried. Not caring if she could hear you.

Thomas took a step forward as if to charge, to move. The Weaver’s ears perked. She sensed him and turned his way. Where his feet fell. Her voice became softer, but her grip was tighter on you.

“Thomas…Thomas…” the Weaver pleaded. Her face pitiful. She was an excellent actress.

The baronet kept blinking rapidly. He was shaking like a leaf. The Weaver raised a dark eyebrow of hers, her voice ringing and clear. Though she could not look at Thomas, there was no doubt she was speaking to him in her gently yet mocking tone. She grinned again, baring her teeth.

“Ah…never getting your soft hands dirty, Thomas…you had…such trouble standing up to her. What a pity...Not for me.”

You had no choice. You willed a little of your fire out of your hand onto hers. She let out a scream as you ran out, away. Free from her grasp. You turned towards the door. You were going to leave immediately and-

But wait! Where was the box?!! You couldn’t leave without it! You would have failed! But if you stayed here- you were dead! And Thomas was just standing there like a statue doing nothing! What on earth was going on with him? Did it have to be entirely you?

You went around to a corner, willing yourself still. Muscles tight. A hand over your mouth to keep from making a peep. So she couldn’t hear you as she searched around. Slowly-her long black hair fell over her face as her head turned around to look.

Yes… She was blind! You could use that to your advantage! What else could you do?

You looked over at the bookshelf right next to her. She passed by it. Hands out. Ready to grab. Devour.

“Fall over,” you asked it silently.

The Bookshelf beside her fell down. It crashed down with a thud as beams came apart and books tumbled to the floor. Dust came in a puff and you could have sworn a spider scurried from there to holes beneath The Weaver jumped. You made items fall around- she followed the sound. You had to create the illusion you were moving, fleeing. Leading her away from you. but you remained still- so she would hear the commotion at the other end of the room. Then she paused calmly.

Her hand reached out. Feeling the top of a certain box under a white blanket. In a second - so quick- she reached beneath it with a free hand. To your horror, she got a knife by its handle. It was raised up, the blade ready to carve you like a roast.

“This will be perfect…now another woman is going to die under these pretty hands…and Thomas again will do nothing to stop it,” she boasted.

She hurried forward with her knife. Picking up her pace, sensing. Her nostrils flaring quietly- to smell you.

You looked over and began to scramble on the floor. You got on all fours, looking around, Trying to be quiet. Where was the box, where was it?

You willed your magic, your senses to help you.

Your senses reached out. Finding, crawling everywhere and feeling the barely open door and Thomas shutting his eyes. a square shape. Glittering- like you could already see it! The same place by the fire! Keeping an eye on her as she searched, sensing for you. You crouched over. Your feet were wide as you crawled slowly. You saw it had indeed tumbled before the crackling fireplace. You reached your arms wide-grabbing it. The texture of its sparkle grazing your palm. You set a hand down to the floor. Ready to get up. Ready to run like hell.

Then the Weaver’s foot came down and crashed on your arm. You let out a scream in pain, Your fingers loosened and released the box.

The Weaver grabbed you by your shoulders. You tried to struggle. You then tried to crawl away on the floor-to the far corner. Test be damned. But she grabbed you by your feet, twisting you- turning you. Looking up, you saw her face. Serene, calm. But with that small smile of triumph-her pupilless blue eyes wide. She held you down.

Though her hand was red with burn marks, she could still use it. raising her knife. The blade right over where your heart was. You squirmed and kicked- but she was so strong, she held you down.

You grabbed her nightgown- willing your fire to go, to move. She only smiled, the flames going over her dress as if they were merely decorations. Her face showed no pain at all.

Dear lord, this was it! This was how you died! Your mind was scrambling. Replaying memories. Thinking of impossible ways out.

You awaited then for the blade to strike, for the pain, and oblivion, for death-when-

SHLICK!

A sword went through her stomach. She gasped her mouth wide in a breathy scream. The air already leaving her mouth, her lungs. The blade over your face. The fire stopped from your hands in surprise.

You saw Thomas behind, the sword he was given thrust forward. His knuckles popped out as he held the handle. Despite the tears in his eyes, he gritted his teeth in determination. He then retreated the sword back through. A giant stain of blood in her middle. Like a puddle. It dripped down, a few drops landing on your face.

You looked at the knife in her trembling hand. Threatening to drop with its blade still forward towards you. You willed it to move, It floated in the air and then you made it toss and skitter away. You freed yourself from the grip of the Weaver and scrambled away. She then leaned over, falling into a ball of pain. Tears in her eyes.

“Thomas…Thomas please…” she pleaded.

You saw the Baronet swallow. He was in pain, but he was going to focus now. His eyes were down and away from her as he leaned down and picked up the golden box, putting it in his pocket.

Thomas helped you up as you held onto the box with your other hand

“Hurry- let’s hurry now!” he pleaded.

As the Weaver went around searching for her knife, you kept sending the junk of the cottage around to barricade her. She got up, stumbling and weak. Wheezing, trying to regain her breath. Jars broke open- the pickled limbs littering everywhere and breaking glass into shards across the floor. She got up, struggling to stand. She stepped over one and screamed so high you jumped.

You and Thomas ran for the door.

The light there was so bright, so blaring, you welcomed it. In three seconds you were both out. You slammed the door shut. Would she escape? You didn’t want to find out. You both went out of the front porch and back into the forest, letting your hands go to increase your pace.

But out from the trees hurried Loki, a dagger wielded in one hand.

“Y/N! Thomas! What’s going on? There were screams!” he cried.

You both went up to meet him. Thomas retrieved the box from his pocket and showed it to him.

“We got lucky- we did it,” Thomas replied.

“Well then! I think our job here is done!” Loki said. There was another rattling scream from the cottage. You winced, but Loki only tightened his lips.

“Can she leave?” you asked.

“Let us not discover if she yet,” Loki said before wielding a flash of golden light and transporting all of you back to Asgard.

All of you landed safely in the heart of a hallway with tall columns everywhere. You had to catch your breath, your heart still racing. Still on the high. Processing that you were alive. Safe. Successful, even. Loki gestured for the golden box, which Thomas placed in his hand.

“All right, now let’s have a look,” you said.

Loki opened it up easily. The inside was lined with silk the color of cream. Like a jewelry box. Fitting, as one of the items tucked inside had a glittering green gem. The other one was grey and dull-made of steel. They were tucked into the silken insides like any piece of jewelry.

Loki got out the duller one- a gear. It shone in its steel as if new. Fresh from a factory. He handed it to Thomas.

“The Cottage must have known you are our clever inventor,” he said. “So the other one must be for our lady.”

The other was a ring. It was carved of gold for the finger. The gem on it was an emerald that shone so bright and beautiful it would make diamonds pale in comparison. You let out a soft gasp. Loki gave it to you. You took the ring and slipped it on your finger, it fit perfectly.

“They’re pretty…but I wonder why those items? Is there a purpose to them?” you said.

Loki shrugged.

“Well, who knows? But, yes, the ring is quite pretty. What about your gear?” he turned to Thomas.

The Baronet smoothed his thumb over it.

“I think I could use it,” he answered. Though his face was still pale and his voice had a quieter tone.

“Alright- now, my curiosity was peaked. What form did the Weaver take?” Loki asked.

“A woman. A woman with long, dark hair and pale skin,” you answered.

“Oh, Sif already!?” Loki asked.

“No, I didn’t know who,” you answered. Then you gestured to Thomas.

“He got her- he saved my life, Loki. She had me and was about to get me- he stabbed her. Probably killed her. And retrieved the box! He was a hero!”

“My! We will make a warrior out of our baronet yet!” Loki replied.

Thomas stepped forward, his shoulders raising up, clutching his gear like a child clutching a toy. Then he turned up, observing Thomas’s face. His eyes softened.

“I think…I might have a guess whose form she took…it was…” Loki wondered.

“Yes. Her.” Thomas answered.

The god put a hand on his shoulder. Thomas looked so shaken- hardly the picture of a triumphant hero. So the woman’s form was someone Thomas knew. And all those things the Weaver said to him…she knew something about Thomas and this lady, whoever she was. What happened with her and Thomas to make him react like that? But his lips were quivering. Thomas was not in a state to discuss what happened.

Suddenly, there was a sound like little chimes. Loki reached into the pockets of his pants. From the opening, there was a green light that glowed so bright it lit up his face. His eyebrows shot up and from his pocket, he retrieved a pocket watch, glowing green.

“Well then!” he said with a grin.

“What is it?” you asked.

“Jonathan gave us a signal-”

“For aid or success?” you pressed.

“I will find out. Get the others in case they are needed- I will be back, don’t miss me too much,” he said as he vanished in golden light.

Word spread around the others to the circle. Jonathan gave the signal, Jonathan gave the signal! All of you hurried to the meeting room. Thomas was moving, though he still looked pale as a ghost. Robert hurried out into the main meeting room, adjusting his grey suit jacket. Hal went out to see as well, groaning as he kept a cold towel pressed to his head.

“What if..what if we all need to fight? What if they outnumber us and we all die!?” you fretted out loud.

Robert looked around, his hands shoved in his pockets.

“Then Loki will appear and no doubt take us all, I hope you have your weapons read-”

The Doctor never finished the sentence.

Loki’s magic fluttered in a golden light before you all. A portal opened up. Out hurried Loki. And right after him was Jonathan, and in Jonathan’s arms- Stella. A bundle in her blue dress. Her hands were bound together with rope as they positioned around Jonathan. Her bound feet dangling over the Night Manager's arms. She had stains of tears all over her face, and her dress had dirt stains, but she was fine. And alive.

You let out a cry and ran over to them first. Jonathan held her as easily as you once held your favorite doll in your arms when you were a child. He let Stella gently go to her feet. Loki raised his hand towards the rope bindings.

“Allow me, my dear,” he offered.

With a flick of his hand, the ropes that bound her hands and feet vanished, leaving red marks across her ankles and wrists. One hand went to clutch the blue beads she wore around her neck- charms for protection, for luck. It seemed maybe they worked this time.

“Oh gods, Stella!” you cried as you grabbed her shoulders, pulling her into a hug.

“YN! YN where-where am I?” she asked, letting go to look into your face. Her face seemed a little gaunt, drained, shrunk into herself.

“You’re in Asgard!” you explained. “The very place Loki lives in!”

Her eyes brimmed again with tears.

“YN I…I…” she babbled out.

She burst into crying.

“I was so scared!” Stella sobbed.

You hugged her again, both of you sobbing it out. Feeling her finally wash out her terror, her experience, trembling hard as she wrung out the crying. She clutched onto you. You let her. Once you felt your own tears ebb down, you began to smooth her hair and rub small circles on her back.

“It’s going to be fine- you’re safe now. You’re far away from Grendel. You’re here. Shhh-”

She looked up. Her face was red and twisted from crying. She wiped it off with her hands.

“You got the…the note?” she asked.

“We did. I got it. And we figured out it was a trap made for me. It was Jonathan and Loki who volunteered to help bring you to safety,” you explained.

She let go. She then turned to Jonathan. Then back to you.

"Yes…he was going to use me. Had me out by a tree. They tied me there. Put a gag in my mouth- and kept it in all the time. Waiting for you to arrive…so he could capture or kill you there and then. It was always changing which one it was, YN! And if not…if you never arrived…Grendel was going to…keep me there. He was going to have me be his…his…prize when he got back. Then he’d let his soldiers...take turns with me if they won battles for him…after he broke me in…” she explained, more hot tears falling down her face.

A cold, sudden dread hit your core at your words. You could have murdered them all, you could have. But that was only for later- now what mattered was her story, her pain, her experience needing a listening ear.

“Grendel left to meet with some others. They left me in that tent. Kept taunting me. Teasing how much I’d like his bed, their bed…talked about what they were going to do to me when Grendel was done….and then…he appeared- Mr. Pine appeared. He dressed like the other soldiers. He found my tent. Said he was here to help me. Then he just took me in his arms and ran out to the woods. They were chasing us but…but Loki appeared and…and then we were here…” she finished.

Jonathan nodded his head, still tight.

“Yes. Everything she said is true,” he confirmed.

Loki placed his hands on his hips, tilting his head.

“Why, you’re bleeding, Jon!” he cried.

There were a couple of cuts through the sleeve of his shirt. Fresh, bright blood spilled out. Stella went over and gestured to one, reaching a hand. Jonathan did not flinch away from the ghost of her touch.

“Will you be…alright, Mr. Pine?” she went to her skirt to tear up a bit for a bandage but he put a hand up to stop her.

“You don’t have to do that. It didn’t get anything vital, Miss Harris. There are healers here with plenty of bandages. Right now…you need to get some food and water and some rest after all that.” Jonathan told her.

She went up to Jonathan and kissed his cheek.

“Thank you,” Stella said.

The Night Manager turned bright pink and smiled at her in response. She went to Loki.

“Thank you too…I always sensed there was just a little bit of good in you…” she said.

The god smiled and made a theatrical bow like an actor.

“Please, the pleasure was mine,” he said.

Servants appeared towards your friend. A guest room was provided for Stella. It was quite dull and plain compared to the other grand rooms- white, grey walls and base furniture. But that didn’t matter now. Loki told the servants to find her a place to sit and to get her something to drink or a small plate of food. Stella was brought to sit on a chair and you knelt next to her, squeezing her hand. She was also cold as ice, Loki added that she needed a blanket. Perhaps a hot bath too to wash out the grime and dirt and the disgusting feeling of being in a disgusting place with such disgusting men.

When a healer arrived to check on Stella, she said other than the burns from the ropes and a few minor scrapes, she was fine. The healer brought out a pot of ointment that she put over Stella’s rope scars. A blanket and a platter of food were brought before her upon a tray set on the table. One maid began a fire for more warmth. Once he made sure everything was met, what wisdom Loki had made him leave. Giving you privacy to be with your friend.

“Did…did they…try to…to…you know. Did they actually…attack you?” you asked.

“It didn’t happen but…they said they were going to…I thought, feared that they would get impatient and- and-” Stella said, her voice breaking off.

Her eyes welled with tears.

“It’s alright. You are safe now- you can cry as much as you need to. Grendel won’t get here- won’t get you.”

Stella gulped down her water and devoured her food. You had never seen her so unladylike when she ate- they must have starved and dehydrated her to weaken her. Weake her resolve and lure you further, the bastards.

“I swear to you, it will never happen again! It won’t! But right now…this is why I’ve been staying here. I am learning how to fight. I just passed a test- I’m going to be considered a warrior. I told you about the training and magic- remember? It’s getting better every day, Stella! I’m becoming a warrior so I can help fight Grendel. Stop his invasion of all the realms. Bring him to justice.”

Stella wrapped the blanket further around her. Her plate and cup were empty. She stared into the fire. Then she spoke with a fierceness, a tone, an anger you had never heard from her since the start of your friendship.

“I hope he and his army burn in hell.”

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

The next day, you checked on Stella once she woke up. She was still shaken. Still bursting into tears. Jumping at shadows. She heard a loud noise down the hall (perhaps Thor ambling down to practice his hammer) and she curled into a ball and cried. You had to assure her it wasn’t Grendel or his army. Making sure she ate her food. Reminding her Grendel wasn't here, not here to get her. As you walked Stella around Asgard, you showed her the library. She didn’t want to look at the books, saying she wasn’t in the mood to read. She only wanted to stare out the window onto the city. You brought your embroidery to work on as she sat and merely looked outside. To pass time in comfortable silence. To see her soothed in whatever way she needed.

There was a soft knock on the door, and you both turned. Loki appeared there. Stella said her hellos, then returned to staring out the window. Sad, blank. You could see in her face- she was safe now. But still shaken by what happened. By what almost happened.

“YN, I was thinking…we should return her home,” he suggested quietly.

“Return her? To get kidnapped again?! Didn’t you hear what they were going to do to her?” you hissed.

“Well, I did, but…”

He folded his arms, letting in a deep sigh at her.

“I don’t think she should be made prisoner. Trading one cage for another. She should decide for herself…” he offered.

He leaned against the wall, folding his arms as he watched the scene. You went over to the window and touched her arm. It broke her out of staring as she looked at you.

“Stella…what do you think? Would you like to stay here a little longer…or would you like to go back home?” you asked.

She looked at you.

“I…I’m not sure what I want…I just…I only want…I want not to be scared,” she confessed.

You placed a hand over hers. Loki walked forward, his voice vibrant, almost presentational.

“You are welcome as a guest here as long as you want. If not, Say the word, and I shall be glad to return you back to your home. We will at least need to tell your dear mother and father you are safe here,” he said.

“Could I see…more of the palace?” she asked.

“Oh yes- why don’t you both take a little turn about!” he offered with a smile.

He held the door gallantly open as you both walked out. Then Loki and you exchanged a look. He then smiled at you before he headed into the library.

Stella turned to you.

“Why do they all look and sound like…like…you know…him?” she asked.

“They’re all variants,” you answered. You then briefly explained the concept of variants and that these men were gathered from different timelines to help Loki stop Grendel. Stella asked no questions but only listened. Walking slowly beside you.

There was one hallway where the sunlight draped across from the wide, open windows. She looked up at the tall pillars, chin tilting. Your footsteps made echoes across the hallway. You saw she relaxed her shoulders more. She didn’t seem as jumpy or as teary. Servants came and went. Some eyeing the new mortal woman curiously. In no doubt, Thor would be barging in to meet her like an excited, overgrown puppy any minute.

“Y/N- what about you? Your parents have been so worried about you. They keep fretting about what is happening. I worry about you sometimes,” she asked.

“ I’ve cried my tears over my heartbreak- sometimes still do. I’ll be fine in time! Don’t worry about me!” you assured.

“I’ve noticed. You seem happy here. Happier here than you were at your own wedding,” she commented.

You gave her a smile.

“I…I’m growing more content. And not everything is easy…but…I have a purpose. All of my life, Stella, has been around my family, the people here, and then Will….”

You paused your steps, looking into her eyes.

“When…when I found out what he did, I wondered who I was without him. Then when I was brought here, I wondered who I was without my family. Without my friends. Or anyone back home. And here…I’m finding out exactly that. Finding out what I can do with no one to hold my hand. Finding out how far I can go and what I am capable of- and how it can potentially help so many others,” you said.

“I’m still not sure if I…want to stay here or not…” Stella mused softly.

As you walked out, you heard grunting from outside. Looking out the window, it was a sunny, cloudless, warm day in the courtyard. Both of you turned to look out to spy the source of the grunting from below.

Jonathan and Robert were sparring in the courtyard. Shirtless.

Muscles gleaming from the sweat. The only thing on their upper bodies were the fingerless gloves wrapped around their hands to guard them. You heard Stella’s breath hitch in her throat as she turned to look too.

How many abdominal muscles did they have between them? And their pectorals were so…so wide! And their biceps you were sure could crush steel easily. They let off grunts as they exchanged jabs and crosses. Robert kept a little smirk on his face, a bit of his hair coming undone. Jonathan’s eyes were still forward, determined. Not that you were staring too long at their faces, anyway. And was that…a little bit of hair on their chests? You couldn’t decide which one was better or more beautiful. Something inside you twinged, itched, ached. If they were variants…then did that mean that’s what…they all would look like beneath their clothes? Thomas? Hal? And… And that means…beneath his leathers that hid so much of his body…that’s what…what Loki would look like? You felt saliva gather in your mouth. That forbidden shiver running through you.

You both stared at them as they fought. Then as Robert beat Jonathan, he let out a small laugh. But Jonathan merely smiled. They shook hands and dried off with towels before heading to the shadows.

You and Stella looked back at each other.

“So yes, I’m staying here,” you said.

“I think I’d like to stay a little longer, too,” Stella said, her face bright red.

.─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

When you trained with Robert the next day, he had his shirt on. Unfortunately and fortunately. The intense exercise stifled your brief moment of lust yesterday. You kept focused on him and your movements.

“Now- think quick! Yes! Now Hook!” he had ordered.

You had been reminiscing over the recent events. It all bubbled up. The sting of Will’s betrayal-it’s memory. You thought it was done but…the visit brought it back. Your parents flat out saying you still should have married Will. To look over his wandering with a smile and say it was better he was happy. Then Stella’s abduction. What they would have done to her had Jonathan not interfered in time. That they were going to trap and kill you- or have you be kept to be a prize alongside your friend.

“Now- jab! Cross! Hook!” Robert instructed.

In the corner- you saw Loki again. He wore lighter training clothes. A bit damp with sweat. But he looked at you and smiled. It felt like a sting- a sweet sting and something inside you kept buzzing when he did that.

And Loki there- his smile. His bright eyes. And who knows what he looked like under those leathers, and if he looked like Robert and Jonathan did- Damn that look on his face! That stupid smirk! You hated yourself. Hated your attraction to him. Hated that you were so drawn to him even when you were dying in that sickbed! Damn Loki, so full of himself and effortlessly charming and beautiful and-

You gave a huge, solid hook to Robert into his right hand. It landed with such force, that it got his hand. He let out a cry of pain and jumped back. You froze.

“Are you alright!?” you asked.

“Oh! I am! Well, then- That was quite a punch!” he laughed.

You looked up at him.

“Sorry I…I got distracted and…and carried away…” you confessed.

“It’s funny…your anger made you punch a little harder, fight harder…I don’t see why you shouldn’t be carried away sometimes.” Robert grinned at you, clearly alright.

Loki applauded as he walked up from his corner.

“We could need you getting carried away, YN! Oh! Spread the word to the others! Meeting in an hour! So let’s review your hooks next and use a new combination…you’re going to use it,” the god announced before he waltzed out the door.

You nodded. Then punched away again. Any minute of training might make a difference. Make you better. And make you more ready for your first real task. Not test. Task.

─── ･ ｡ﾟ☆: *.☽ .* :☆ﾟ. ───

In an hour, everyone gathered in the meeting room. Loki was waiting, in his usual fine dark, green, and golden leathers. His arms crossed behind his back as if he was pacing all around. He turned and smiled.

“Well now! My dear little circle! Today we embark to retrieve the book. The spellbook is in Vanaheim as you all know. I paid the Prophet another little visit yesterday and he said that the book is in two parts and where they are kept. One is in the smaller Kved palace. And the other is located in the larger Nott palace.”

“So, we should split up. Find the halves. And return.” Jonathan suggested.

“Well, yes, but…”

Loki then looked at all of you.

“I’ve never been to the Kved Palace, but the Nott one I have visited several times. I must tell you…there are more variants of me that stay there,” he announced.

“Zounds, more?” Hal gasped, tilting his head.

The god let out a little laugh.

“Yes! And they all call themselves Lokis! Kved seems to be lighter. Fewer people in there- still guarded. I don’t know who. But…in the Nott palace, they’re guarded especially by two certain variants. A handsome face that looks much like yours truly who they call The President, and a woman variant- the only one.”

He gestured for all of you to gather around. His eyes were determined.

“Here is the plan. Hal, Jonathan, and Robert shall go to Kved to sleep the night. The rest of us shall go to Nott. We are all just visiting. Cause no trouble or suspicion. Figure out where the book halves are and who guards them. We must be ready- but not let them suspect anything. And there is one tactic I find especially effective- flirtation. Especially with our beautiful lady among us...”

He gestured to you. You lowered your jaw, placing a hand over your heart. Loki continued.

“Y/N, you must flirt with this variant of mine. They call him The President. He is rather…high on himself. And feeding his ego will only distract him more, especially with that pretty face. So charm him, seduce him if you must to disarm him.”

“I’ve never seduced anyone! I’m a decent woman!” you cried in objection.

“Well- then only as a last resort! To break his guard! Only if nothing else works! Just…mere flirtation! And the female variant who guards. I will flirt with her. They do not call me Silvertongue for nothing.”

There was a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.

“Now…any final questions between all of you? None! Well then- how ready are we!? Very!” he announced.

Everyone agreed. Loki conjured weapons to be discreetly hidden. Thomas, Jonathan, and Robert beneath their jackets. You had a white cotton day dress. To seem innocuous, sweet, even charming. But one dagger was hidden to be in the bustle of your skirt. Steel kept just inside the softness.

“Remember-violence is a last resort. And we do not know what obstacles await us to find the book,” Loki reminded all of you.

He conjured a portal and in there all of you walked- ready to search for the book halves and the first key for Grendel's defeat.

You weren’t sure what it would look like, but Vanaheim was mainly made of forests. Beautiful, peaceful forests. Nicer than the Weavers forests.

As all of you walked along the path, the air was cool and fresh. It cleared out revealing a lake as clear as a mirror. So long and wide it went down. Turning your head, it was led to a kingdom. It looked like the ones from storybooks.

The high walls easily let you inside from the smiling, armed guards who merely shrugged as they let you in. The kingdom was a rustic, medieval town compared to the more Romanesque Asgard. Hal looked like he fit right in as he practically strutted down with a smile on his handsome face.

The two palaces were far too tall to miss. A larger one in the center with a flag of the moon. A smaller one to the east waving a flag with a sun on it. Both were made of a cream-colored stone that made them shine like seashells. The Kved palace was almost tall and thin, like a tower. But the Nott palace was like a large rectangle with high, rectangle windows and what seemed to be statues of other Norse deities. None you could name.

“All right, we shall meet up here by this time, tomorrow,” Loki announced. “Though- if one needs more help…send one to the castle to announce it.

It was set and each of you split up into groups. Jonathan, Hal, and Robert headed for the Kved palace. Thomas, Loki, and you took strides toward the large Nott palace. You headed up the steps to the large, dark wooden doors with golden knockers. Thomas lifted one and had it knocked against it.

Who opened the door but an old man in a silly-looking costume. Like a replica of Loki’s- only bright and garish complete with yellow horns on his head and green pants.

“Ah! Dear Loki Good to see you!” he wished, wrapping the God of Mischief you knew into a hug.

“Oh-Classic Loki! I’ve missed you as well!” he wished with a smile.

And they were all called Loki as well! Oh, dear heavens- this was going to be dizzying! At least the variants you knew had different names! You were going to get very confused!

“Do come in! It’s been nothing but parties here lately with all of the variants!” the old man explained.

“What is the purpose of a Loki than to cause Mischief!” your familiar Loki replied.

They laughed and patted each other on the back. You all walked inside the entryway. The palace inside was downright ethereal. Ivory walls and laughter echoed. You swore you heard a harp playing.

“Here- they call me Classic Loki.” The old man introduced himself.

Thomas smiled and shook the old man’s hand.

“Sir Thomas Sharpe, esquire.” he introduced himself.

Loki swirled over to pat Thomas’s back

“He is another variant- isn’t he handsome? No doubt, because of his similarity to me, hm? Sir Thomas Sharpe is a Baronet, Inventor, and a natural dancer to name a mere few. And this here…”

He swept over to you.

“This is another companion of mine. A mortal lady from Midgard, but as warm and lovely as this Vanaheim itself- this is Miss Y/N,” he said.

Butterflies emerged in your stomach from his words. In a way, they never had before with his flowery statements. You swallowed it back. You made a curtsy, giving a smile to greet Classic Loki.

“I’m delighted to make your acquaintance,” you greeted. Classic Loki ebbed his head and acknowledged you.

“All of you-join us! You are in time for the vintage wine!” Classic Loki invited, waving all of you in.

Inside the palace were long wooden halls. Lamps that glowed golden. Art, vases full of flowers, and statues passed by- it felt almost like a nice museum.

He then turned and there was a ballroom. Tall windows, chandeliers, and light, bright walls that almost made your eyes water.

Though as nice as the palace was, so many of the Lokis in the large dining hall ranged from clean to dinghy. There was a scruffy little boy with long, brown hair stealing small cakes to stuff into his face. As you walked out there was a garden full of hydrangeas with a little fountain in the center. The fountains pool, much to your surprise, had a small alligator with little golden Loki horns on his head as a helmet floated about. It got out, passing by your feet-docile as a dog, friendly and harmless. It reached up at you, pawing lightly at your skirt.

“Please don’t bite me,” you whispered.

You leaned down to pet it, and it only smiled. Well, as nice as a crocodile could smile.

But ah, yes. The mission! You turned around, trying to find it. Thomas was already being poured a little glass of wine as he talked to a Loki who wore furs. The Loki was telling a story with a large, dramatic voice, and Thomas smiled at him and sipped. You walked back inside the ballroom. The laughter and the sound of an off-key piano from the corner. The chaotic conversations…that of course only a room full of Lokis could provide. There were tables full of refreshments of round, thick breads and creamy pies.

Thomas seemed focused. But where was…was…

Then you found your Loki…and the woman variant. For, of course, she stood out as the only woman here besides you. Short blonde hair and slender. The woman variant- one of two guards of the book.

There was a back corner where there was a large, clumsy, giant target set up on the wall. The woman had a little table with several knives.

He was leaning against the bar of the table. Close. He was smiling in a way that…that…that you didn’t like. She tested the weight of one and then turned to him. He kept smiling. You felt so stupid. You knew this would happen. Yet why...did you not like it?

She folded her arms. Guarding herself. Tilting her chin. Frowning. But he kept the dreamy look he would give. You could not make out what words he was saying but you knew Loki well enough to know that he was probably oozing with charm, compliments, and smooth words. Complete with that velvet, baritone voice in that tone he always liked to use with flattery and flirtation.

The lady was focused on a target. She kept throwing the daggers. It hit the target- or close to it. There were already at least five other small daggers near the center- never missing. She gave him a glare with one in her hand. Perhaps considering if her next target should be his face. Then kept throwing and hitting her marks perfectly as he waxed poetic to her.

There was a woman back home…

You felt something in your stomach drop and twist.

Another woman who had blonde hair.

A heavy lump gathered in your throat, your eyes feeling hot.

And who wore a grey coat…and when she went about she didn't wear her corset...

The nasty cruel voice in your head was running rampant.

A woman who had a smile on her face. Hid her past bruises with her scarves and collars...

A perfect woman. Another one. Never falling. So any man who ever showed interest in you would no longer as soon as she stepped into a room.

This variant was like…like…

Hot tears threatened to form in your eyes. The self-destructive impulses and thoughts and bitter memories spiraling.

“It’s always some woman, stronger, smarter, better than every other woman…and that’s who you will always lose to. There is always a Cora. Every time you even consider that…that…someone, a gentleman might like you…she will come along again, that bitch. Like a Gorgon growing another head when you think you’ve chopped it off. Y/N, Think of what happened moments before your own marriage…your almost marriage…it will always happen…you will never win, never be wanted, because there will always be someone better. What were you doing letting yourself melt a little to Loki’s charms?! He’s a trickster god! That’s what he does! Plays tricks!”

You forced your eyes away, trying to deepen your breathing. Forcing your eyes on the floor. The off-key music and laughter in your ears.

You then lifted your chin and began to walk away to the crowd. Scanning for this other variant.

Why should that matter? Loki was the kind to flirt to get what he wanted! This was a part of the mission! You hated the feeling of pettiness and jealousy in your stomach. You hated that you grew to like his compliments, his flirtation, for lack of a better word. They flattered you. And yes he was attractive…but nothing more. Yes, nothing more. It didn’t matter. You have plenty of new friends now. That was enough. Men became monsters when it came to matters of romance, and that included gods. And Loki was such a scoundrel and arrogant. Let him be in his environment.

He can flirt with whoever he pleases and I do not care one bit, you thought to yourself, holding your head high.

You continued on your merry way. Then you saw him- The President.

It was obvious- he was wearing a dark, slightly torn suit with buttons that read “PRESIDENT” in large letters. The bright eyes and dark curls and handsome smile.

Loki was doing his part, and now it was time to do yours.

You came up with a smile, as he noticed you. He looked and sounded exactly like Loki. Which was a curious thing- so many different Lokis who all looked different. But this one could be his twin. Even in his voice.

“Ah-now, who are you?” he asked.

“Take a guess,” you said.

He smiled, putting his hands in his pockets.

“Hmmm…perhaps…a beautiful lady who is a little bit bored with her home and has come here for a bit of danger…a bit of excitement…” he smiled.

“I don’t want to be in any danger,” you replied coyly.

He walked up to you. A smirk formed on his lips as he drank you in.

“Then why are you here?” he asked.

“I only wish to…enjoy myself,” you answered. Feigning bashfullness. A slight push to keep him wanting more.

“Then….no doubt I can provide that to you…excuse me, gentleman,” he said, dismissing the other Lokis behind him to see you. His smile having a hunger to it.

Good- now he was in the palm of your hand.

“You did forget the part about my name, good sir,” you said greeted with a little curtsy.

“Then-mystery woman. Relieve my curiosity. Tell me your name.” the president replied.

You gave him your name. He then took your hand and gave it a deep kiss on your knuckles- eyes never leaving. The happy, excited flutters went through your stomach

“It’s a pity you shouldn’t refresh yourself while you’re here- would you like some wine?” he asked.

“My! Quite gallant! Is that how you won so many votes?” you asked with a smile.

“Through some persuasion, campaigning, gaining trust…and a few hearts as well.”

He gave you a wink.

“Why, you’d have my vote!” you responded.

You burst into some giggles. He put you on his arm as he led you forward to the table where drinks were being poured and food served. Glowing in the attention that the President Variant was showering on you.

It seems like this is working. We should have it in no time, you thought.

As you glanced over, you saw Loki beside the woman concentrating on her dagger throwing. Loki looked at you with this copy of him in a tattered suit.

You glanced back into his eyes. This was the plan. Flirt with the variants. It was working extremely well on your end. This should lower the guard of the President at least to discover the location of the half of the spell book.

Yet Loki was not smiling.

[cinemapremi]

Mukti Mohan's Wedding: A Beautiful Love Story Unfolds

The wedding bells are ringing for the famous dancer and actress Mukti Mohan, who recently tied the knot with her longtime boyfriend, actor Kunal Thakur, on December 9. The social media world is abuzz with congratulations and warm wishes for the newlywed couple. Arti Singh Secret Wedding Tina Dutta’s Comment Sparks Speculation Parineeti Chopra Talks About Her Marriage and Future Plans

The Joyous Celebration

The wedding ceremony, filled with joy and love, was attended by close friends and family. Notable figures from the entertainment industry added to the celebration, making it a memorable affair. https://www.instagram.com/p/C0quPJUyOaI/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=NTYzOWQzNmJjMA==

Heartfelt Messages from Mukti's Sisters

Mukti's sisters, Shakti Mohan and Neeti Mohan, poured their hearts out in emotional notes, expressing their happiness and bidding farewell to their beloved sister. Shakti shared, "It feels like a piece of my heart has walked away with you. I am genuinely happy for you and Kunal Thakur."

Behind-the-Scenes on Social Media

Social media platforms, especially Instagram, gave us a behind-the-scenes look at the wedding festivities. Mukti and her sisters shared candid moments, giving fans a glimpse into the warmth and laughter of the Mohan family. https://www.instagram.com/p/C0q4L1XPUIa/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=NTYzOWQzNmJjMA==

Mukti's Wedding Pictures on Instagram

Mukti took to Instagram to share beautiful wedding pictures, capturing the essence of the special day. The entire Mohan family, including Shakti, Neeti, and Kruti, looked radiant in the shared photographs.

Shakti Mohan's Emotional Journey

Shakti Mohan, in a touching post, expressed her emotions, saying, "My little Golu's wedding is done. Feels like a piece of my heart has walked away with you. I am so happy for you and Kunal Thakur."

Mukti's Mehendi Ceremony Fun

https://www.instagram.com/reel/C0rQ0HyoW9X/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igshid=NTYzOWQzNmJjMA== Adding a playful touch, Shakti commented on a picture of Mukti's mehendi ceremony, "I learned to ride a bike, didi. I am just 20 minutes away, and you put mehendi on the last finger. My heart belongs to the one who puts mehendi on the last finger."

Neeti Mohan's Emotional Post

Neeti Mohan shared her emotions on Instagram, writing, "Bareilly ki Barfi... Mukti Mohan and Kunal Thakur have just got married."

Celebrity Well-Wishes

The couple received heartfelt congratulations from Bollywood celebrities, making the celebration even more special. Colleagues and friends from the industry shared their blessings for the newlyweds.

Mukti's Stunning Bridal Look

Mukti looked breathtaking in a pastel-colored lehenga, adorned with diamond and emerald jewelry. Her bridal ensemble, including a matching necklace, maang tikka, and nose ring, added to the charm of the celebration.

Siblings' Bonding Moments

The wedding highlighted the beautiful bond between Mukti, Shakti, and Neeti. The sisters were seen sharing candid moments, laughter, and creating cherished memories together.

Mukti and Kunal's Love Story

Mukti and Kunal's love story, from their initial days of dating to finally saying "I do," is nothing short of a fairy tale. The couple, who have been together for a long time, is now beginning a new chapter in their lives.

Post-Wedding Plans

As the festivities continue, the newlyweds embark on their journey together. The article concludes by highlighting the joyous occasion and the love and support the couple has received from family and friends. Mukti Mohan's wedding was a celebration of love, laughter, and family bonds. The heartfelt messages, candid moments, and warm wishes from well-wishers added to the joyous atmosphere. As Mukti and Kunal begin this new chapter, they carry with them the love and blessings of everyone around them. Randeep Hooda and Lin Laishram’s Magical Manipuri Wedding Q: When did Mukti Mohan get married? A: Mukti Mohan tied the knot with Kunal Thakur on December 9. Q: How did Shakti Mohan express her emotions about Mukti's wedding? A: Shakti Mohan wrote a heartfelt note on Instagram, expressing her happiness for Mukti and Kunal. Q: What did Neeti Mohan share on Instagram about Mukti's wedding? A: Neeti Mohan shared her emotions, mentioning that Mukti Mohan and Kunal Thakur have just got married. Q: How did Mukti look on her wedding day? A: Mukti looked stunning in a pastel-colored lehenga, complemented by diamond and emerald jewelry. Q: What is the significance of the mehendi ceremony in Mukti's wedding? A: The mehendi ceremony was a fun-filled event, and Shakti Mohan humorously commented about it, adding a playful touch to the celebrations. Also checkout: Read the full article

[fadingrebelobservation]

Celebrity news today Things To Know Before You Buy

"I feel what transpired was I became a lot more regarded ahead of the function was there," Davidson explained. "I am in my 20s and i have dated people, and for many rationale, that is extremely nuts and appealing to people today." 6:19pm The comic also complained which the viral reaction has overshadowed his perform which "is an extremely shitty sensation." Pete Davidson is sharing that his dog Henry has passed away. Watch for his sweet tribute on the late pooch, who "saved our lives." "It seems to be Pretty much like it's liquid or fluid. When you pick one up, it appears like it should shift or wobble," he extra: "Rather than a great deal of pieces these days... you are able to tell it absolutely was created by an individual. There is a human factor to it." Though Cartier doesn't publicize the full range built, authorities feel it is from the hundreds, as an alternative to the thousands. They exist in "immeasurably modest quantities," Heap additional with a video clip connect with. Once the initial batch, Cartier continued to produce Crashes on need. It went on to generate new versions in white gold, pink gold and platinum (most notably in the confined edition run in 1991, however these are credited to Cartier Paris and usually sell for less than older London types). 2020 was absolutely a ridiculous 12 months stuffed with numerous transform and expansion, some awesome unforgettable moments. 180 straight days of getting my nose hair scraped, actively playing for very little fans or no stands the entire time. I obtained engaged." Royally romantic! Prince William and Princess Kate expressed their really like for one another inside the sweetest approach to ring in 12 a long time of marriage. Close icon Two crossed lines that kind an 'X'. It implies a method to shut an interaction, or dismiss a notification. Helpful exes! Pete Davidson and Kim Kardashian didn’t Permit celebrity news today their previous split get in the best way of having an excellent time on the 2023 Satisfied Gala. “Pete and Kim have plenty of historical past amongst them so it had been wonderful managing into one another for the Achieved Gala and with the ability to capture up for […] Pratt states "Guardians of your Galaxy Vol. 3" will include things like the expletive following "yrs" of other actors attempting to have the term into an MCU movie. Doing the job as a result of it. John Mulaney has always chosen honesty With regards to his battle with habit and his attempts to remain sober. The content news comes fewer than just one year just after the former Netflix star uncovered she experienced a miscarriage. Six months right before that she also endured a stillbirth.

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On Saturday, Soon immediately after King Charles III's crowning, William, the heir on the British throne, will kneel at his father's ft, location his arms amongst the monarch's, and swear his loyalty to him, "as your liege guy of life and limb." In February 2021, several times after media shops started to report the pair is likely to be dating, the Eco-friendly Bay Packers quarterback declared he was actually engaged. Heap welcomed the event as an antidote to your "huge, ostentatious diamond-established items" Usually found on celebrity wrists. "It truly is Nearly similar to a dress enjoy design, with a leather strap and a little-sized case," he extra. "I think that's quite cool." The actress talks to ET about uncovering the answers to who was in the long run responsible for Alberta's Loss of life. Kevin Costner's wife Christine Baumgartner doubles down on divorce submitting as she's noticed out with no wedding ring The feud started when Lourd publicly admitted that she hadn't invited her late mother's siblings to her Corridor of Fame ceremony as they allegedly monetized from her Demise. Matty Healy's finish courting background prior to Taylor Swift rumors Might four, 2023 The Satisfied Gala has long been referred to as the most significant trend party on this planet, the best bash from the 12 months, and you realize A-checklist stars will ring their A-activity.  Next Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships so we could obtain payment for many one-way links to products and services. Ye only fed pupils sushi at Donda Academy, had no lessons on 2nd flooring since he was 'scared of stairs,' go well with states In this article to stop working all the largest times with the champagne carpet is Cassie Anderson, trend director of Cosmopolitan.  He’s Element of the band. Singer Matty Healy has manufactured headlines over the years for his onstage antics — and for his own daily life. The turning point, he explained, arrived in 2018 when Kanye West was observed carrying 1 on David Letterman's Netflix Exclusive. "I'll give credit score where by credit's owing," Clymer reported. "I think it had been Kanye West putting on a crash that really put it again around the map."  "I obtained into this romance that is been genuinely wonderful with someone remarkable. And we are using a little one collectively. I was anxious After i was about to say the news!" Previously this calendar year, the model and podcast host and comedian Eric Andre sparked romance rumors once they were spotted finding lunch together in January, and later on vacationing from the Cayman Islands.

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As well as the pregnancy decline she suffered in 2022, Vander also went via a stillbirth the yr prior. six:19pm Even though the pair in the beginning appeared like Among the most random partners of the 2020s, soon after examining multiple interviews about their romantic relationship, they appear additional alike than one would Believe. Pete Davidson is sharing that his Pet Henry has handed away. Look ahead to his sweet tribute into the late pooch, who "saved our life." Get to know the skincare Expert's Selfless by Hyram line — and perhaps discover a handful of new favorite skincare solutions along the best way. 2:41pm Foxx's daughter explained very last thirty day period he was being handled with "wonderful treatment" but didn't specify what experienced transpired to him. Close icon Two crossed traces that variety an 'X'. It indicates a method to close an interaction, or dismiss a notification. Chevron icon It suggests an expandable portion or menu, or at times former / subsequent navigation selections. HOMEPAGE 0 Newsletters Royally passionate! Prince William and Princess Kate expressed their love for each other during the sweetest solution to ring in twelve yrs of marriage. Lopez and Affleck lastly acquired married a calendar year afterwards, getting A non-public ceremony in Las Vegas in advance of a next, larger wedding ceremony. Same goes for his disgraced uncle, Prince Andrew, whose titles were being removed in 2022 by his possess mom, the late Queen Elizabeth II, just after his sexual misconduct scandal. The turning position, he reported, came in 2018 when Kanye West was viewed wearing one particular on David Letterman's Netflix special. "I'll give credit rating where by credit score's owing," Clymer reported. "I think it was Kanye West donning a crash that basically put it back again to the map." Merely a dozen or so watches are considered to have emerged from this first creation operate. The Crash's irregular form designed it laborious to generate — and Cartier's signature Roman numerals and sword formed palms proved tricky to read. noted past month, Harry will be in London for under 48 hrs for his father's coronation. The Duke of Sussex will probably be traveling into the city in advance in the May perhaps 6 event and leaving quickly right after to return to Meghan as well as their two Children in California. The coronation falls on exact day as being the fourth birthday in the pair's son, Prince Archie.

About Celebrity news today

Account icon An icon in the shape of a person's head and shoulders. It frequently indicates a person profile. "That very first Crash observe induced a lot of headaches," Brickell quotes her grandfather as saying. "The thing is, It is really all pretty perfectly developing a superb-hunting layout, nonetheless it had to inform enough time also! And since the dial was irregular, the numbers were not for the common areas." “‘It’s Alright, mama. You simply must do what you feel,’” Williams said on “The Drew Barrymore Clearly show.” “I basically wished to cry. It was like, ‘Do what you feel, do what your coronary heart tells you.’ It absolutely was the sweetest issue ever and I had been so pleased with her.” The actress talks to ET about uncovering the responses to who was in the end chargeable for Alberta's death. We use your signal-up to provide content material in the ways you've got consented to and strengthen our knowledge of you. Because of this we could consist of adverts from us and 3rd functions based on our expertise in you. There was loads of glitz and glamour as some of the biggest names in entertainment, fashion, sports and politics partied Monday at the once-a-year Achieved Gala. Shutterstock Richie wealthy? Prince Harry hasn’t been a senior Operating royal since 2020 — but he continue to incorporates a bank account deserving of his title. Williams' black dress bundled silver embellishment with see-by way of sleeves with white cuffs as well as a tulle mermaid skirt. She accessorized with a myriad of Tiffany & Co. pearls draping close to her necklace, in addition to a pearl headband by Lelet. We also could change the frequency you receive our email messages from us so as to continue to keep you updated and provide you with the ideal suitable information and facts probable. As always you are able to unsubscribe at any time. Much more Information. "It's the combination of all of the great talent that I get to meet and the creativeness that I see and the chance to try and assist individuals, and use the System that i'm so Fortunate to own the top that I can," stated "Vogue" editor Anna Wintour.  Alex Murdaugh, who's at the moment serving two daily life sentences for that murders of his spouse and son, responded into a daily life insurance plan fraud lawsuit submitted in connection with the 2018 Loss of life of his housekeeper. The turning stage, he claimed, came in 2018 when Kanye West was witnessed carrying a single on David Letterman's Netflix Distinctive. "I'll give credit score where by credit's because of," Clymer reported. "I think it had been Kanye West putting on a crash that basically put it back about the map."  "I got into this relationship which is been definitely wonderful with another person unbelievable. And we are possessing a infant together. I had been anxious Once i was going to say the news!"

[clarklovescarole]

April 1936: Pictured Together

April 1, 1936 – The Argos Reflector

Inside Gossip: Last week’s famous matinee idol, who is reported to be seeing much of Carole Lombard, is Clark Gable.

April 19, 1936 – St. Louis Post Dispatch

WHEN I WAS at Paramount a day or so ago, Carole Lombard came in looking chic in a gray tailored costume. She was to have some stills made – ordinary photographs to you – of her last picture to use for fan mail which is very heavy. And maybe, too, they were being made for Clark Gable, for that romance which started out as more or less of a joke is taking on a much more serious aspect and they are seen constantly together.

April 20, 1936 – The Des Moines Register

Filmland’s latest romance rumor began when Carole Lombard, film actress, sent Clark Gable, screen star, a unique valentine – an old broken down lizzie, festooned with paper hearts. This is the first time they’ve been pictured in public together, and the camera man discovered them at the midget auto races in Hollywood. 

April 21, 1936 – The Tribune

Frequent appearances together at Hollywood resorts has lent credence to reports that Carole Lombard, former wife of William Powell, and Clark Gable are planning to middle-aisle it. Their romance started when Miss Lombard presented Gable with a dilapidated automobile as a valentine joke.

April 22, 1936 – The Minneapolis Star

The Carole Lombard-Clark Gable business will bear watching. They see each other all the time. Both being whimsical that way, they travel about in the once dilapidated flivver which she gave Clark for a valentine present and which he spent $300 having fixed up.

April 26, 1936

William Powell and Carole Lombard still rub noses when they meet.

They adopted this good old Eskimo custom when they were man and wife. Divorced, they keep it up. 

Powell and Miss Lombard are working together now in a picture, “My Man Godfrey.” When they walked on the set for the first day’s shooting, it was the first time in many months they had met. They scanned each other carefully, for a moment, in silence. Then – 

“Hello, Bill.”

“Hello, Carole.” 

As though at a signal, they walked up to each other and rubbed noses, bursting in to affectionate laughter.

Miss Lombard was Mrs. William Powell for two years and two months. Then, without preliminaries, she flew to Reno and won a sealed divorce. The complaint was incompatibility and for once movie colony gossips had no “low down” to offer on the breakup. It was understood they just weren’t happy in the limits of the wedding ring.

But amiability and even friendly affection characterize their relationship now. On the “set” between scenes, they seem to find a lot to talk about.

Occasionally, Miss Lombard linked her arm through her ex-husband’s or leaned against him, one hand on his shoulder.

They consult each other constantly on what actors call “business,” that is, inflections of the voice on particular bits of dialogue or facial expressions in specific scenes; in short, the modes and means of acting.

“What do you think of this, Carole?” Powell will say. She replies and frequently asks his advice on some little problem of her own.

There are love scenes, but no actual clinches in “My Man Godfrey.”

Neither would discuss the situation in relation to the present.”

We’ll be glad to talk about pictures in general, this picture in particular, or anything you want,” Powell grinned. “But the past – is the past.” 

retrieved from The Birmingham News

April 28, 1936 – Hartford Courier

That Clark Gable-Carole Lombard romance is still in the sizzling stage. “If only they could act as well in front of the camera!” sighed Hal Roach at a recent Beverly Hills party.

April 30, 1936 – The Edwardsville Intelligencer

Clark Gable is actually driving the pristine $25 flivver that Carole Lombard gave him as a gag. He has had the valves ground and the body painted white. The result is terrific, if not colossal. Mr. Gable drives it everywhere, but hasn’t yet dared ask his chauffeur to take the wheel.

[cierojewels]

4 Possible ways to match Kundan Necklaces to your outfit

Today every next bride for a perfect royal and eye-pleasing look is seen wearing royal kundan bridal jewellery. Kundan bridal jewellery not only enhances the look of the bride but also makes you stand out from the crowd. The look provides by this jewellery piece is unbeatable. With its increasing demand, people are also crafting kundan jewellery into customized artificial jewellery. Although kundan jewellery looks perfect in every outfit sometimes it overlooks the person. So to help you out in matching the perfect kundan necklaces and jewellery with your look and outfit here in this article we have mentioned some tips.

More For :- Kundan Jewellery Is The Hot Trend Among Millennial Brides

Kundan Necklaces Should Match other jewellery:

While buying the kundan necklace make sure that the precious and semi-precious gemstones crafted in the kundan necklace are well contrasted with other jewellery items. Select your bridal kundan bangles, rings, maang tikka, etc. according to it. For instance, you can match up your kundan necklace with heavy danglers studded with gemstones.

More For :- Knowing Kundan Jewellery: For Everyday to Ceremonial Look

Kundan Necklaces Should Match the theme:

Whether it is your D-day or any other wedding function make sure that the jewellery piece goes well with all. The best thing about the kundan jewellery designs is that in readymade you will find a lot of options in it. If you want a traditional yet classy look for your mehandi function you can wear a kundan choker necklace. For something elegant and traditional on your D-day you can choose a kundan necklace like the actress Aishwarya Rai wore in the movie Jodha Akbar.

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Kundan Necklaces Should not Overwhelm your whole appearance:

While selecting kundan jewellery make sure that it does not overwhelm your whole appearance because of its intricate beauty. For example, adorning a heavy kundan jewellery necklace with a big nose ring and heavy stone-crafted lehenga will provide you with a monotonous and dull appearance. Instead of it pair the heavy kundan necklace with a light weighted lehenga or a heavy lehenga with lightweight kundan jewellery. It will help you in balancing your complete look and the focus of every person will remain on both the bride and her jewellery pieces.

More For :- Quick Perks Of Kundan Jewellery You Should Know

Kundan Necklaces Should Match your outfit:

Selecting a bright and colourless kundan necklace is a perfect choice as it matches nicely with every bridal outfit. For a bride who wants to make her jewellery 100% match her outfit and look customizable then a coloured stone setting will help you out in this. Based on the colour of your outfit like blue, green, pink, red, etc. you can specifically buy or select the pre-existing kundan jewellery. Moreover, the blouse of the outfit also plays an essential role in the bridal look. For instance, with a short-collar blouse, a long kundan necklace will look perfect.

More For :- Why is Kundan Jewellery so Special

Conclusive Statement:

Kundan necklace jewellery always remains the favourite piece of jewellery of every woman. With these above-mentioned tips, you will surely match your kundan necklace perfectly. For more options in royal kundan bridal jewellery visit Ciero Jewels online.

[a-2-z-news]

These actresses dazzled their bridal look with pearl necklaces, wore the same nose ring

These actresses dazzled their bridal look with pearl necklaces, wore the same nose ring

Actress Wedding Nose Rings: From Deepika to Katrina, these actresses dazzled with pearl necklaces, wore identical nose rings. Source link

[lis-likes-fics]

EXmas

Pairings: Natasha Romanoff x Fem!Reader Warnings: None really. Mutual pining. A/N: Christmas fic for Tasha because we all love her. And I’m a huge simp

You looked down at the invitation in your hand with a heavy sigh, growing as you leaned back in your chair. Natasha sat by your side, elbow propped beside your head as she rested her chin on it.

"What's wrong?" she asked. You looked at your best friend, huffing as you jutted your lip out dramatically.

"I'm going to an old friend's Christmas party and my ex is going to be there with her new girl."

Natasha tapped your nose, "Aww... You can just not go."

You shook your head and groaned again turning to face her only inches from your face. "I can't, I already said I'd go, and he just texted me that Lydia was coming. I can't just not go."

You sat up, playing with your nails as you muttered, "It would just be embarrassing if I showed up and bumped into her and her new girlfriend, single."

Natasha sat up next to you, biting her bottom lip as she thought. "You know," she said, "you don't have to go alone..."

She looked over at you, a smirk on her face with a raised brow. You rolled your eyes, "What? Am I supposed to just walk into a Hot Topic and ask someone out?" You mumbled under your breath, "Everyone knows that's where the gays are..."

She rolled her eyes, standing and leaning over you with her hands on your thighs. "I meant me, dumbass."

You paused, "You want to be my date?"

She smirked, "Even better. I'll go as your fiancée. That'll rub it in her face."

You eyed her before bursting out laughing. "That's funny! That was a good one," you snorted, "You and me as wives."

She pouted and smacked your chest, "Hey, I'm serious! What's better than girlfriend? Fiancée, bride-to-be, future wife. It won't be real, obviously, but it can be for the night."

She leaned forward, her face inches from your again. You could have sworn you felt her breath stop in her throat as a slow smirk spread over her lips, "You know I'm a good actress."

Your heart pounded in your chest at how close she was to you now. Her breath blew feather-light over your face, and her green eyes watched your every move. Your own eyes could not help but dart down to her lips; plump, soft, pink, and oh-so kissable.

"Y/N, will you do me the honors of being coming my wife?" she asked, her eyes glistening.

The thought of the two of you going to that party, arm-in-arm with rings on your fingers, the possibility of sharing a kiss with those soft lips to prove your marriage-to-be, it had your heart beating faster (if possible) and your breath growing heavier.

You nodded, "Okay."

She smiled at you, "Yeah?"

You nodded again, smiling at her, "Yeah." She pulled away from you, holding her hand out for you. You took it and stood with her.

"I'm sure I have rings we can choose from," she said as she lopped her arm with yours. "Or we can go shopping. Give this thing a test drive."

You laughed, brushing off the strangely intense moment you had just shared with Natasha. "Whatever you want, darling," you smirked at her, already feeling your confidence coming back.

~

You spent the week before the Christmas party practicing with Natasha. Not that you really needed to, it turned out that you were naturals.

You ended up going to a restaurant together as a "practice date". You definitely did not just ask her out to the place because you wanted to do a one-on-one dinner with her where you would sit close to one another, smiling and looking into one another's eyes, and possibly sharing a kiss between one another. That would be ridiculous.

They were having a Christmas special where newly weds and engaged couples got free deserts. The two of you tested it out and Natasha went as far as bending down on a knee and proposing to you on the spot with the rings you both had.

It made your heart flutter to think of the moment being real for just a second.

You got your free desserts and were more than happy to share it with her.

When the Christmas party came around, the two of you went together wearing outfits that almost matched. Your rings were sparkling, and you were ready to go out there and show them off.

Until you got to the parking lot.

Your fingers tapped on the steering wheel as you looked at your destination. Natasha knew that look and that tapping from anywhere as she gave you her own look, "Hey, what's up?"

You shrugged, "What if we get find out? What if she knows we aren't actually dating? What if-"

"Hey," she stopped you as she flashed a smile, "We've known each other for years. We're so close that people constantly ask us if we're together. That wasn't the first time we've gotten couples discounts."

She turned her body to face you, placing her warm, soft hand on your cheek. Your eyes fluttered at the contact and she gave you a warm smile, "Everything will be fine. Just don't freak out. We're together, and we're happy about it."

You smiled and nodded to her, "Okay."

"Let's go inside," she told you. You nodded and the two of you walked hand-in-hand into the building. When you got to the door, she stopped suddenly as she looked up with a smirk.

You looked up as well, your eyes growing wide when you saw the mistletoe hanging on the top. You looked back at her and she smiled at you with an arched brow before leaning in and kissing your cheek gently.

Your heart fluttered and you had to tell yourself to woman up. This was just a little party where the two of you were engaged to make your ex jealous. That's it.

You did not like Natasha as more than a friend. You have been best friends for so long, there was no reason for those feelings to suddenly change.

You smiled and kissed her cheek as you cursed your fluttering heart, and the two of you walked into the building.

You did not see Lydia right away, it seemed she was late. That was not much of a shocker, the woman knew nothing about punctuality. You and Natasha spent the party hip-to-hip, a glass of champagne or eggnog in hand as you talked with all the other guests.

You had gotten used to having Natasha's arm wrapped securely around your waist, her fingers tapping against your side and drawing patterns into your skin. It was when someone tapped on your shoulder that you turned around suddenly.

You and Natasha came face to face with Lydia, her new girlfriend on her hip. "Y/N. Oliver said you were coming." Her eyes turned to Natasha and she had to hide her annoyance at seeing her.

Lydia had never liked your best friend. Natasha never liked your ex. On more than one occasion, Lydia had tried to loosen your relationship with Natasha to try and have you all to herself. That was one of the reasons you had broken up, actually. She had been trying to manipulate you into believing Natasha was not your friend so that Natasha would stop trying to make sure you were not being manipulated by her.

"I didn't know you had a plus one..." she added with somewhat of a sour look.

You shrugged, "I didn't have to say I was bringing a plus one."

She sighed and shrugged it off, "You look good." You glanced at Natasha, hiding a smile as you both exchanged looks. "Thanks," you hummed.

She brought her girlfriend forward, "This is Stella." You both waved as Natasha pulled you back into her side, her arm wrapped securely around you and drawing the attention of Lydia.

You took a sip of your drink, your ring glistening in the light as it caught Lydia's eye. "That's a lovely ring..." she said, "Who has the other one?"

Natasha took great pleasure in raising her hand to show off the diamond ring on her own finger. "I do," she said.

You smiled at her, "You don't say that for another while, Nat."

"I thought we could skip ahead, babe," she said, leaning over and kissing your cheek. You flushed at the pet name, turning your attention to a fuming Lydia.

"When did you get together?" Stella asked with a kind smile, trying to ease the tension coming from Lydia.

Natasha had other plans.

"Right after you and Lydia broke up, wasn't it?" she said as she looked at you.

"Yes, actually," you replied, playing along with her antics. You looked back at your ex, "So I guess we have you to thank for this Lydia."

She gripped the glass in her hand a little tighter than necessary, "My pleasure."

Natasha sighed, "I think we're going to get back to the party. Nice to meet you, Stella." You and Natasha walked away from the couple, holding back laughter at how angry you had managed to make Lydia with such a small interaction.

"Natasha seems nice," Stella said.

Lydia huffed as she pulled her girlfriend away, "She's not."

~

Lydia kept trying to catch you alone throughout the party, leaving her girlfriend to try and socialize with others. You honestly felt sorry for Stella, she was just looking to spend the night with her partner, only for Lydia to be caught up in you.

Natasha would soon find you in no time whenever Lydia got close. You danced with Natasha and laughed with her as you drank your champagne. Lydia jealously watched and tried to intervene. At some point, you or Natasha would busy yourselves with talking to Stella so she did not feel neglected.

There was a point where you lost Natasha in the growing crowd of the party. You found yourself in an empty hallway so you could text her, or just take a moment to yourself before returning to the party.

Before your phone was out, however, Lydia appeared around the corner as she crossed her arms over her chest. "Y/N," she said.

You sighed and rolled your eyes, "What do you want, Lydia?"

"It's an interesting game you and that redhead have been playing... But I know you better than that," she said.

You almost panicked as she called you out on your lie.

Almost.

You laughed, "You're really going to do this?"

She walked over to you, a smile slowly spreading across her face, "Y/N, I know you. We dated for a year. The only chemistry you and Natasha have is one that comes from a fifth grade friendship."

You began to be angered by the insult, but decided against it. You did not care what she said to you, what she thought. But if she insulted Natasha again, you would have to have words with her...

And maybe a few punches.

"Okay. Nat and I are getting married. You're only jealous because I got over you," you told her.

She scoffed and stood next to you, shuffling her hair onto one shoulder as she asked, "Okay, then. Who confessed first?"

Speed round, answer quickly and she'll have to believe it.

"She said she had feelings for me after we broke up," you told her.

"When did she propose?"

"Two weeks ago."

"Where?"

"At home. We were watching Christmas movies and she popped the question in the middle of Elf." That last detail was something Natasha added. Details were important.

"When's the wedding?"

"Undecided, places are booked."

"Have you told your parents?"

"Telling them for Christmas."

"Where'd you get the rings?"

"Natasha had them specially made."

"Do you love her?" Lydia asked.

You were caught off-guard. You were always strange about your perception of love. You could hardly say the word love to or about someone u less you were absolutely sure of that.

You have never said, to any of your partners, that you loved them. Nor have you ever told anyone that you loved said partners.

She knew this about you, and she used it to trick you.

She smirked at your hesitance, "Gotcha." She stood in front of you now, her eyes darting from your eyes to your lips, "You just brought your bestie as a plus one to fake date so you could make me jealous."

You did not response, still caught off guard with the question. Her face was inches away from your now, "Now, say the words, and we can pick up where we left off. Maybe I'll be the one to put a ring on it this time."

She leaned forward as soon as you were coming back to reality, your head no longer spinning from the question of whether or not you loved Natasha—a question you had focused on for too long to not be contemplated over.

Her lips had just pecked yours when a voice interrupted her, allowing you to fully return from your daze. "Hey!" it called, "Back off of my wife!"

You both turned tour heads to the owner of your voice and you found yourself smiling as Natasha stormed over. Lydia shot over a cocky smile before she leaned forward to continue what she started.

You slapped her just as Natasha got close. Natasha then grabbed the lapels of your shirt, pulling you forward into a searing kiss that immediately knocked the breath from your lungs.

Her soft, red-painted, kissable lips finally pressed roughly against yours. You melted into the kiss almost immediately, your surprise instantly forgotten by the way her lips felt against you. Her hands moved from your shirt to your neck as she cupped your throat. Your own hands found waist as you pulled her closer. She pressed you up against the wall and devoured you. Her kisses became suddenly desperate, as if your lips dripped the finest wine in all of creation, and she had been thirsty for centuries.

Lydia took a step back as she recovered from your harsh slap. When she looked up and saw the two of you embracing each other like it was the last kiss you would ever share, her face fell and she huffed.

It did not matter if your relationship with Natasha was not real before. After a kiss like that, there was no way a desperate need and a burning passion for the other had not been ignited. She carried herself down the hall angrily.

Soon enough, the two of you had to pull away for air, your heads spinning from the mind-blowing kiss. You were both gasping for air as you stayed inches apart, your eyes hooded as you watched one another.

"Wow," you panted.

She nodded, "Yeah."

You watched as the confident and fearless air around Natasha blew away, being replaced by a woman with nothing but curiosity and timidness. She looked into your eyes almost hesitantly before gathering the courage to ask, "Do you... Do you love me?"

Your breath was gone again at the question. Her green eyes were vulnerable as she stared at you, glimmering with hope as she gazed at you. You moved your hands from her waist and placed them on her face, cupping her cheeks in your palms as you continued to inspect her jade stone irises.

"I mean," she said, "I mean because you could have just said no but... you stopped. You didn't say anything."

Suddenly, that insecure Natasha that you had seen a few times throughout your years of friendship with this woman came in full power as her fingers tapped gently on the side of her neck out of nerves. "Why-Why did you stop completely instead of answering?"

You licked your lips, tasting her cherry chapstick on your tongue. With your silence, her insecurities grew and she almost began to visibly shrivel up before she could begin to build her walls up again.

You nodded, the movement slight, "Yes."

She was caught by surprise as you answered. "What?"

You nodded again, your eyes suddenly teary as you thought over every thought you had ben having with Natasha ever since you began fake dating for this night. Every thought of an actual future where Natasha was your wife, walking down the aisle in white with her hand in yours; every thought of adopting kids for you both to love and teach to love; every thought of bickering and arguing with one another, only to make up because you know that you could never let a disagreement ruin you; every thought of kissing her so sweetly, or so roughly, or so erotically, of spending the night in her bed as you got to know each other's bodies; every thought of growing old beside each other and knowing that death could not keep your love from flaming.

Thinking about this made you realize that these are thoughts you had about her for a lot longer than just the past week of fake dating, these are thoughts that you had shoved deep within you ever since the first moment you met Natasha, they're thoughts that you ignored with the idea that you were just lonely.

These thoughts told you just how much you truly love the woman before you.

"Yes, Natasha," you repeated. "I love you."

Her lips twitched up in response as she processed your answer. "You love me?"

You nodded again, pressing your forehead against yours, "I love you. I've loved you for years, it seems."

She pulled you closer, your lips pressing against hers once again, but this time in a gentler manner as you both thought through those words. When she pulled away, she whispered to you, "I've loved you, too."

You smiled, wiping at the tears in your eyes before they fell. She managed to send you a sweet smirk before she whispered, "Merry Christmas, Y/N."

You smiled, kissing her quickly, "Merry Christmas."

Red Ledger taglist: @natasha-danvers​ @thelastavenger-3000​ @nat-romanoffdanvers​ @nowthisisliving27​ 

Thanks to @/maysdigitalarts for the dividers!

[thornedrose44]

Prompt: "Do it. Take a chance, I'm begging you. You don't want to spend the rest of your life wondering what could have been."

Read on AO3

“What is it?” Kara huffed out, her frustration finally reaching critical mass.

“What’s what?” Alex replied, playing dumb by pretending to study the DEO’s monitors far too intently considering Kara had literally just dispatched the rogue villain of the week.

Kara crossed her arms, hip cocked forward slightly as she leant against the central console, blue eyes observing her sister's profile closely.

“Whatever you’re not telling me because you think it will upset me.” The superhero clarified bluntly, her social hesitation and uncertainty having dampened over the last few years.

She had learnt the hard way how important it was to never shy away from the truth and avoid speaking around the heart of the matter. It was a lesson she had absorbed completely, and it was one she refused to forget - needing to prove she had evolved, had bettered herself from the version that had required teaching in the first place.

“I’m not…” Alex refuted, shrugging dismissively but keeping her gaze trained forward, “There’s no-“

“Look, I’m asking you out of courtesy,” Kara cut in, “but you and I both know that I could just as easily ask Nia, and she would fold almost instantly.”

Alex grumbled irritably under her breath - Nia still had yet to build an effective resistance to Kara’s puppy dog eyes and this particular weakness had caused no small amount of trouble for Alex over the last five years.

“It is Lena related, right?” Kara checked, though it was completely unnecessary.

For Alex to actively try and keep a secret from her, it couldn’t be about anything else. And it had been more or less confirmed by her sister's reaction to her threatening to go to Nia.

“Just because I’m keeping a secret, doesn’t automatically mean it’s to do with Lena.” Alex tried, though the conviction behind her statement was weaker than wet tissue paper.

The redhead side-eyed her and Kara merely had to arch an unimpressed eyebrow in return for the DEO director to deflate.

“Okay maybe it’s a little to do with Lena.” Alex admitted with a wince, rubbing the back of her neck in defeat.

Kara threw her hands up in exasperation. “It’s been over five years, okay? I’m fine!”

Her bellowed declaration of stability, made the nearby DEO agents look over with a mix of curiosity and concern. Kara grimaced at the reaction and as such didn’t resist when Alex grabbed her arm and dragged her out of the central room and into her private office.

Alex turned to face her fully, lips pressed tight together and hands firm on her own hips (it had always annoyed Kara that Alex managed to make her signature superhero pose far more intimidating than her own attempts).

“Yelling I’m fine, definitely helps your case.” Alex retorted, voice dripping with sarcasm.

Kara had the good grace to look suitably embarrassed for a moment before launching into the same variation of the speech she gave every time there was a morsel of Lena news to be had. “I screwed up, okay? Big time screwed up - ‘regret it for the rest of my life’ screwed up!” Kara declared prompting a beleaguered sigh from her sister who knew the blatant lie that was coming next. “But I’ve made my peace with it. I won’t spiral into another depressive episode when I hear how happy she is.”

Alex shook her head, not even remotely convinced - not that Kara could blame her, the last time Alex had been pestered into telling her a Lena update, Kara had spent a weekend on a drinking binge that had successfully proven that there were limits even for a kryptonian.

“I don’t think-“ Alex began.

“What is it?” Kara demanded. “Is she getting another medal from the president?”

Alex shook her head, jaw clenching and unclenching. “Kara, you don’t want to know this.”

“Her and Kal save the world again?” Kara barrelled on, her lips curling into a jealous snarl. “The greatest Luthor and Super duo continue to make the world a better place?”

That particular news article had been printed and burned by Kara’s heat vision more times than she dared admit to anyone.

“Kara, please-“ Alex begged, expression crumpling as Kara relentlessly pushed.

“Tell me, I can take it.” Kara proclaimed, voice coming out high pitched and strained. “Is she dating someone again? Another famous actress? That Olympic male gymnast? What-“

“She’s getting married.”

A bomb must have gone off, Kara thought to herself.

A kryptonite bomb.

It was the only thing that could explain the ringing in her ears, and the way everything just… hurt.

A shard of kryptonite must have pierced her chest and cut her heart into jagged pieces. That was the only thing that could explain it.

“What?” She questioned, barely above a whisper. She didn’t quite recognise her own voice - it sounded shattered and unfamiliar. She also didn’t know what she was asking.

Didn’t know what ‘what’ was all about.

What just happened?

What did you say?

What post-apocalyptic reality are we living in now?

“Next week, she’s getting married.” Alex explained, giving Kara answers she no longer wanted. “Sam, Ruby, Kal and Lois are invited.”

She knew it should sting. Not being invited even though they hadn’t spoken in nearly five years. That she should feel something about the fact that Lena had omitted Alex, Brainy, Nia and J’onn as well - it further reinforced how Lena believed them to be Kara’s friends and never hers (which was one of the things Kara regretted most - how her poor treatment of Lena had infected and destroyed everyone else’s friendship with the youngest Luthor).

“To who?” Kara asked, tone cold, hollow… empty.

“Kara,” Alex murmured softly, reaching out to comfort her sister, “this clearly isn’t good for you.”

Kara jerked backwards so fast that the papers on Alex’s desk shot into the air, fluttering down around the sisters like snow.

“Just tell me!” Kara ordered, hands turned into white knuckle fists at her sides that would be capable of tearing through the strongest of metals. Her eyes heated but she managed to stave the fire in them as she glowered at her sister.

Alex slumped back, leaning heavily against her desk, running a frantic hand through her short hair. “Does it matter?” Alex muttered defeatedly, brown eyes filled with pity and sympathy as she stared up into Kara’s eyes.

“Of course it fucking matters,” Kara snapped in outrage before she had a chance to stop and think , “because it’s not me!”

The admission hung heavy and rotting between them. It wasn’t a revelation to either of them, though the fact that the intensity of Kara’s feelings hadn’t dampened despite the separation of half a decade was.

“Kara…” Alex breathed, standing back up and moving towards the blonde with the obvious intent of hugging her.

“I should get back to CatCo.” Kara mumbled, cheeks a fiery red with shame. She stepped hurriedly away from her sister and was already halfway out the door before she halted, turning back to call out a sad yet sincere. “Thanks for telling me.”

Xxx

“I genuinely don’t get why you love these films so much.” Lena remarked, hands cupping her just made cup of cocoa, nose adorably scrunched up as she snuggled back down on the sofa beside Kara, who didn’t hesitate to wrap an arm around her best friend’s shoulders.

“They’re sweet and romantic.” Kara replied with a happy sigh, turning to nuzzle into the side of Lena’s head for a fleeting moment as the film’s lead started her joyful march down the aisle. “It makes me hopeful.”

“Hopeful?” Lena repeated curiously, leaning away slightly so she could meet Kara’s blue eyes.

Kara shrugged, ducking her head bashfully, “It’s stupid.”

“Hey,” Lena murmured gently, freeing a hand from her mug so that she could interlace her warmed fingers with Kara’s, “you could never be stupid, especially not about something like this.” Her best friend asserted, before asking seriously, “You want the classic big white wedding?”

“Uh…” Kara blushed, cheeks pinking as her mind struggled to kick into gear.

She didn’t know how to tell Lena that the reason she loved weddings more than any other event is because they so closely resembled Kryptonian Bonding ceremonies. That the exchanging of rings, polished everlasting metal, reminded her of wonderfully crafted bracelets clasped on wrists. That it was an occasion for family to join together across generations, for the rare flashes of art and music on Krypton to take centre stage over cold science.

She didn’t know how to tell Lena that after being alone, abandoned and lost - ripped away from her home in the cruelest of ways - that the idea of belonging to someone else, of having a home in someone else regardless of time or location was what Kara wanted more than anything else.

She didn’t know how to tell Lena because it would require admitting the truth of who she really was, it would require taking accountability for years of lies.

She didn’t know how to tell Lena without losing her forever.

“Yeah.” Kara coughed awkwardly, “I want the whole thing. Beautiful dress, surrounded by family… the love of my life at the end of the aisle. Everything.” She shot Lena a side-long glance, “I’m guessing you don’t?”

“Never really been my thing,” Lena admitted readily and Kara’s heart twisted at how Lena didn’t hesitate to bare herself, how she gave all of herself when it could be argued that Kara - at best - only gave half, “probably because I can’t imagine I have enough people in my life to invite and feel ‘surrounded’.” Lena pursed her lips thoughtfully, “I also don’t get the need for the spectacle. Just the idea that there’s someone out there that would want to…” Kara watched her best friend deflate, expression wistful and pained, “be with me, love me like that… that’s more than enough.”

Kara’s eyes stung with barely suppressed tears at how little Lena thought of herself. Whoever had the privilege of marrying her best friend would be the single luckiest and most fortunate person in the universe and Kara wished Lena knew that, wished she believed it. But when she opened her mouth to say it, to proclaim it, her breath faltered and her courage abandoned her… like it always did with the youngest Luthor.

“So no white dress?” Kara muttered instead, voice meek and lacking the lightheartedness that should have carried the question.

It didn’t matter, though, Lena let out a quick exhale that resembled something on the edge of laughter. Kara’s escalating heart rate settled at that, however, it did little to alleviate the pang of regret that was steadily accompanying all her interactions with the CEO.

“Well, I guess I could be convinced by someone special.” Lena teased, shooting Kara an overtly salacious wink that wouldn’t - on the surface - be considered genuine.

“Anyone that marries you will have to be special.” Kara replied, the statement tumbling out instantly.

It wasn’t the heartfelt confession that Kara wished it to be and it wasn’t quite light enough to be dismissed as a friendly reassurance. Instead, it was yet another thing that fell into the ethereal greyness that lied between them, something to tuck away and think back on late at night when they tried to work out if the other meant it the way they wished they did.

“Yeah?” Lena whispered, piercing green eyes studying Kara’s face closely.

Kara swallowed thickly, “Yeah.”

Xxx

Lena found out less than six weeks after that movie night. They defeated Lex and Kara had been on the edge of breathing easy, of being able to simply relax back into her life when it all came crashing down.

They had been at Games Night and Kara had been antsy, waiting for her best friend to arrive. The thought of pulling Lena into a hug had been what she had been looking forward to most all day.

Kara was at peace, laughing and drinking with her friends - her family - when Lena had arrived. Kara had beamed up at her immediately and for a second Lena’s entrancing green eyes lit up in return before turning dark and distant.

Kara’s smile faltered, crinkle appearing between her brows when-

The wine bottle smashed into the wall behind Kara’s head.

Deathly silence fell over the area.

Kara looked into hollow, emptied out versions of her favourite green. She would have preferred anger, fury, rage… the defeated nothingness staring back at the Kryptonian was far worse.

Lena turned and left, grinding Kara’s heart to dust and taking the sand particles left with her.

She knew.

She knew because Lex had told her.

She knew because she had gone to stop her brother, intent on saving the world like always only to find out that those she was saving the world for didn’t view her as their equal. That the people she treated as family had kept her on the outskirts. That her best friend had lied, had manipulated, had-

xxx

It was Lois that found out everything from Lena.

When the fallout had happened, as Kara and the Superfriends realised what they had lost, the blonde hero sent notice to her cousin that his identity was probably known as well (mostly because she remembered how hurt she had been when Kal shared her secret without her consent). Kal and Lois had arrived almost immediately, frantic and terrified (especially with baby Jon to consider) at the concept of a Luthor knowing their identity.

Kara, joined by all the Superfriends, quickly put their minds to rest, sharing Lena’s actions from before, her dependability, kindness and inherent goodness. Kal and Lois were convinced their secret was safe but they were horrified to hear how Lena had been isolated and kept at arms length after her considerable good deeds. Alex and the others had squirmed uncomfortably and tried to weakly talk around their hesitancy.

Kal and Lois had simply looked at Kara for an explanation but she had none. Yet again the words would not come.

It was Lois, therefore, that had sought out the youngest Luthor and through her incredible tenacity was able to gain access where everyone else was rebuffed and harshly rejected.

It was Lois that comforted Lena, gave her support and sympathy.

It was Lois that relayed Lena’s demand that they give her space.

It was Lois that suggested Lena return to Metropolis - presenting it as a way to celebrate how L-Corp, after Lena’s repeated sacrifices and heroism, was fully rehabilitated and ready to reclaim its once home.

It was Lois that encouraged Lena and Kal to work together becoming an unstoppable force that Kara and Lena had always danced on the precipice of.

A Luthor and a Super. Saving the world.

xxx

Kara did as asked. Gave Lena space. Or at least the semblance of space.

She checked in constantly, hovered nearby throughout the days and nights leading upto L-Corp’s departure and Lena along with it. She followed Lena’s jet to Metropolis, a sentinel ensuring safe passage.

She kept her distance for three months. Three months of stony silence before she broke.

Snapped, more like.

Landing on Lena’s new balcony in Metropolis that had been specially built for Superman this time - not for her, though Kara, at the time, had hoped that she had been considered consciously or unconsciously as well.

Kara couldn’t remember the exact words.

She remembered crying from beginning to end.

Remembered ‘I loved you’ - past tense.

Remembered finally breaking through Lena’s cold, hardened shell to the raw, bleeding wound hidden underneath and regretting it almost immediately.

Remembered how seeing Lena’s agony was worse than kryptonite, worse than watching Krypton burn…

Remembered Lena saying she needed time to heal, for Kara to stop hovering nearby - because she knew, she sensed Kara’s presence even without seeing her once - and to give her time to stop thinking of Kara and feeling only pain when she did so.

Remembered promising to do just that.

Remembered a timer starting to count in her head - the seconds that she would be condemned to purgatory.

Remembered the hope that just refused to go out - the hope that whispered give it time, give it time, give it time with every beat of her heart.

Remembered thinking that given enough time Lena would reach out and they would get the chance that Kara had almost destroyed for them.

Remembered flying zig-zagged and dangerous to Alex where her endless stream of tears returned to full flow as she sobbed into her sister’s shoulder using words and phrases like ‘heartbroken’ and ‘I love her’ and ‘I can’t survive this pain’ and ‘what do I do?’ and ‘I can’t breathe’.

Remembered a hollowed out shell of Kara Danvers moving through the motions for a year, for two, three, four… five...

Remembered taking up drinking to excess whenever she saw Lena’s life flourish and grow - not because she didn’t want Lena to be happy, that was what Kara wanted and wished for more than anything - because she wasn’t there with her for those life-changing events.

Remembered Alex and Kelly’s worries growing with each occurrence, intervening more and more to such a degree that they encouraged Kara to consider AA meetings - she did eventually, and found destroying entire junkyards to be a healthier coping mechanism, external destruction rather than internal.

Remembered Brainy at the behest of Alex, setting up Kara’s phone and computer to prevent searching for any keywords affiliated to Lena and to alert Alex if Kara ever managed to stumble upon a news article.

Remembered listening to Kal and Lois skipping large parts of stories where it was clear that Lena was involved - it was nice in some way to know Lena was getting the credit she deserved, but it hurt when Kal’s stories started to involve gaps at Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year (events that made Kara’s loneliness even more acute and her longing intensify).

Remembered her life without Lena.

Remembered regret and guilt and loss.

Remembered-

“She’s getting married.”

xxx

Kara shouldn’t have been there. Shouldn’t be anywhere in the vaguest vicinity of where she currently was.

The bride was dressed in a simple silky white shift, sipping intermittently from her champagne glass as she stared contemplatively up at the designer white dress hanging off the door in front of her. Raven locks were pinned up, so tight and intricate that it made Kara wince sympathetically at how it must tug and pinch at the bride’s scalp - she’d always preferred it down, loose and curling… soft and inviting. The bride’s make-up was artistic with a dramatic edge that would captivate but made her look… not like herself in Kara’s opinion.

Or maybe after five years it made Lena look more like herself - the version of herself she had become once free of Kara and all the pain she brought into her life.

She was hovering outside the dressing room window, trying to work out how far she was willing to take this. If it would be better to leave without saying anything, to try and leave some part of Lena’s life unspoiled.

It was the fear that she had always given into when she was best friends with Lena that made her decision for her. Like speaking her truth and learning to ask for what she wanted - Kara had also promised herself that she would never allow that bone deep fear to stop her ever again.

The window was open and it was as good an invite as Kara was ever going to get.

“Lena?”

The beautiful bride-to-be jerked in her place, champagne glass nearly tumbling to the floor but saved at the last second.

She didn’t turn around for a beat… then two…

Kara was just about to escape back through the window when Lena exhaled slowly and pivoted round to meet her.

“Kara?” Lena breathed out, green eyes closed off and wary.

The kryptonian studied the love of her life for a moment, taking in every little detail - soaking it all up as if accepting that this would be the last time she might ever get to see it again. That the timer that had counted past five years would stop after this moment, the hope powering it gone forever.

“Don’t marry them, please.” Kara requested, no flowery language, no build up. Just the honest truth.

“What?” Lena’s jaw dropped and the champagne glass didn’t survive the second shock, crashing to the ground - released by trembling fingers.

“Don’t marry them.” Kara repeated, uncaring of how the carpet below them soaked up the amber liquid.

Lena’s expression flitted through an array of emotions before settling on indignant rage, “And why the hell not?!”

Kara didn’t flinch, didn’t retreat, instead she stood taller, the crest of her super suit catching the early afternoon light. “Because it should have been me. It still should be me.”

Lena scoffed in disbelief, “You can’t be serious. Now? You’re doing this now?”

Kara pursed her lips, fighting back the regret that always came with the reminders of countless missed opportunities. “Yes.”

The straightforwardness of Kara’s answers seemed to be throwing Lena, leaving her wrong-footed, clearly expecting the blonde to talk around and hint and imply like she used to.

But Kara had learnt. (The lesson had been too painful not to.)

“You had years, Kara!” Lena argued, “Years where I…. I threw myself at you. Practically begged you to love me… to trust me…”

“I know.” Kara replied sadly, wanting desperately to reach out when Lena’s pretty green eyes began to glisten with unshed tears. “I know. But I’m here now.”

“I don’t want you to be.” Lena muttered, arms crossed over her chest and head ducked downwards to hide her expression.

“I know that too.” Kara assured, fingers twitching with the desire to make contact, to comfort and coax - even after all these years her body remembered, the pathways of hardwired instinct related to her best friend were still there, still active even if temporarily closed for service.

“Then why are you here?” Lena murmured, voice barely above a whisper.

“Because I’m in love with you.”

Lena’s head snapped up at that, green eyes like saucers.

Kara’s single biggest regret was that she had never said those words to Lena before, had alluded and pointed at them during their final interaction but had never outright said them. And Lena had deserved to hear them then and deserved to hear them now to forever vanquish the doubts that had always been with her.

“Because I’m in love with you and we didn’t get our chance.” Kara affirmed, taking a half step closer to the bride, her red heeled boots and Lena’s bare feet meaning the younger woman had to tip her head ever so slightly back to maintain eye contact. “We didn’t get our chance because of me. Because I was afraid, I was so afraid of losing you. Of doing even the slightest thing that could mean you weren’t in my life. And in the end every action I took out of fear of losing you ensured just that. I’ve spent five years without you, Lena, and I can’t bear a single day more.”

“Kara,” Lena whispered, “I’m getting married.”

“I know.” Kara smiled sadly before adding, “Don’t.”

“What are you suggesting? Seriously?” Lena sighed, shaking her head mournfully and Kara knew she was losing her then.

“I’m suggesting that we have our chance now before it's gone forever.”

Gathering the small amount of courage Kara had left, she tentatively let her hands nudge forwards, brushing against Lena’s cool, pale fingers. That small contact was everything. Made it easier to breathe, made the colours of the world more vibrant, made everything just more.

“I let fear hold me back from the person that made me happiest in the entire universe and I won’t let it hold me back again.”

“Kara…” Lena whimpered, glancing back over her shoulder at the closed door that her wedding dress was displayed on, though she didn’t pull her hand away from Kara’s touch, didn’t flinch or retreat.

“Do it.” Kara pleaded, stepping across that final slither of distance between them, her forehead leaning forward to rest gently against the side of Lena’s, “Take a chance, I’m begging you. You don’t want to spend the rest of your life wondering what could have been.”

Lena inhaled shakily, head returning to forward facing - foreheads pressed against one another, breathing in the same air - and then… and then…

Lena’s hands slipped fully into Kara’s, fingers intertwining together.

[poisonmaximoff]

BELATED FATE (Elizabeth Olsen x FemReader).

The whole story: here.

Chapter 6. The time we had

Y/n's POV:

It's already been almost a week since I started working with Elizabeth. Although working is a big word, I rather just periodically help her with some little things. Anyway, it's the first time I feel so dedicated to my work. I try to do everything as efficiently and quickly as possible, so that El isn't tired too much as she used to be.

Currently it's Sunday evening. I'm laying on my bed and replaying the events of the past days in my head. I'm so happy that me and Elizabeth often talk about topics that are not related to work. Every day we find something to discuss or laugh about.

"No way, no way you woke up in Miami after getting drunk at your best friend's engagement!" I couldn't believe she was actually capable of that. "I thought that shit happens only in stupid movies!" I stared at her with wide eyes, raised eyebrows and covering my mouth with my hand.

"I wish it was a lie, Y/n" she couldn't contain her laugh either. "Can you imagine the shock I felt when I woke up in completely unfamiliar room with a view of the Atlantic Ocean? I thought it was the worst possible thing that could happen to me, but then I looked in the mirror" she said while sipping her non-alcoholic mojito. "I couldn't even look at the alcohol for a year after this incident."

"You turn out to be such a bad girl, El" I smirk, still trying to combine her two different personalities in my head. It's like a superior version of Hannah Montana. "When did this even happen?"

"Almost three years ago. It's just that after the age of 25, people suddenly lose their ability to think sensibly after few shots of vodka and tequila. The last thing I remember from that day is how I tightly hug my best friend and say "It's time for me to find my happiness too!" I don't know why I was sure that I'd find it in Miami, but it turned out the way it did."

"Well, looks like you ended up finding it here" I say, pretending to be very excited about her upcoming wedding.

"Yeah, I think I did," she smiles dreamily.

"Have you decided on a wedding date yet?" God, I'd be such a good actress. Acting out the joy for her is almost Oscar-worthy.

"What?"

"Did you forget that you are going to get married, Elizabeth?"

"Oh, this happiness, no, we haven't decided on the date yet" incomprehensible look written on her face, when she briefly looks at her ring. "Have you ever drunk yourself to the point of losing your memory?" she changes the topic and I couldn't be more grateful as it was uncomfortable for me despite asking about it myself.

I smile over this memory from ear to ear. She definitely shouldn't have told me about this, because immediately after that she got the nickname AlcoWitch.

"I understand an "alco", but why a witch?" she can't stop laughing, scrunching her nose in adorable way, after our joint stream of dubious jokes.

"Because you flew to Miami. I'm not sure it was on a plane, because tequila does unexplainable things to people."

Before hanging out with her, I knew only three people that I could have this much fun with: Madison, Olivia and myself. I never thought that El and I had such a similar sense of humor and that she had so many hilarious stories in store. But sometimes we touched on quite serious topics, getting to know each other's deeper inner world.

Currently we're in my office, putting some paperwork and my workspace in order. I don't know what Elizabeth is doing here, because I could handle it myself, but I'm not going to question that.

"Were you ever afraid of getting caught with Taylor?" My blood suddenly freezes in my veins.

"W-what?" I don't even hide my stunned face expression, since I had no idea anyone knew about us.

"You had an affair with her, right? I'm sorry, if I'm pushing or making you uncomfortable, you don't have to answer it. I just wonder how such things work" she says in her usual calm and a bit raspy voice, sitting on the couch.

Her question felt like I was doused from head to toe with ice water. "How did you know?"

"It was pretty obvious every time she came here. I've actually been here too quite often, it's just that we haven't crossed paths. But I always saw how you looked at each other and how you were stealing kisses in your office, thinking that no one was watching." I could feel a barely noticeable hostility in her voice.

"Well...First of all thank you for not telling anyone about it, Taylor would definitely have a huge breakdown." I wasn't sure, if it was right to talk to her about my ex, but the need to convince her that we were no longer bound by anything overshadowed all doubts.

"Things were...complicated. I wanted everyone to know about our relationship, since it became unbearable to hide all the time, and she refused to even discuss it multiple times. I respected her position, but the constant feeling of being abandoned and ashamed of just brought me to decision to end things before it was too late. I wasn't able to do it for months because of the self-induced thought about us being romantic soulmates for life. She was my first true love, but turned out I wasn't able to sacrifice my own happiness for her comfort. I know, that I did a selfish thing, but nevertheless I don't regret it. I don't blame Taylor in anything and still respect her so much. We just weren't good for each other. I tried my best to get over her and now I'm surely finally clean."

To say that I told everything in a nutshell would be an understatement. Of course, there were many more details and emotions in this story, but Elizabeth didn't need to know about it. And it turns out we weren't that professional at hiding since she knew about us. The fact that she respected our privacy and didn't tell anyone about it makes me develop even warmer feelings for her.

The fact that she sometimes bluntly asks about my personal stuff is, of course, a bit strange, but I feel comfortable talking to her about it. I know that I can trust her and that she will never use this for selfish purposes.

The sudden loud ringing of my phone pulled me out of my thoughts. Olivia, just in time. I swipe the green circle to the right and am immediately attacked by her excited voice.

"You're not gonna believe what just happened!" Blonde girl with pink streaks in her hair practically yells at me.

"Hello to you too, Liverpool" I grin not being able to contain my smile at her excitement. We've been friends for almost four years now and I'm pretty sure she's my platonic soulmate. We literally share the last two brain cells.

"Hey, don't call me that!"

"Okay, Liver, I won't." In our saint trinity Madison is used to roast me, I'm used to roast Liv and Liv is used to roast Madison. Fair enough. "Sorry, sorry, what are you so happy about?" I watch the girl's pout being replaced with previous joy.

"I have been casted in the new Netflix thriller, can you believe that?!" I can see how she barely manages to remain in her place instead of start jumping.

"What?! Oh my God, are you serious?" It's my turn to yell the shit out of me now.

"Yes, yes, yes! You're the first one I called, you have that privilege, ya know."

"Holy fuck, Liv, I'm so fucking happy right now, you worked so much for that, I'm so insanely proud of you and can't wait to meet up, so you could tell me everything in person!" I mean every word I said. I'm happy for her as much as I'm happy for myself. She was always by my side in the most difficult moments of my life and I will always be grateful for that.

"I miss you so much, Y/n, maybe we can meet tomorrow? I know that you don't do much at work anyway, so..." Shit. Actually tomorrow El and I are going to attend a charity event to help sick children, so I'm definitely not going to be able to take time off and I actually don't even want to. It's an important day not only because I'm going with Elizabeth. I completely forgot to tell Liv and Mads that we have been working together recently. Or just didn't want to face their endless love jokes.

"You not gonna believe that, but I actually started doing my job."

"You're right, I don't believe you. Wait, are you serious? Are you sick, should I be worried?"

"Yup, totally. I mean yup, I'm deadly serious and I'll tell you everything when we meet. How about Tuesday afternoon?"

"You're scaring me, but okay. See ya, Y/n. And still, I recommend you to check with a doctor." She just couldn't hang up without making a final witty joke and I love her for exactly this shit.

Elizabeth's POV:

It was one of the best weeks I've had in a long time. Y/n is the woman I'm totally comfortable with and I can quit pretending to be another person. She has such a versatile, interesting and fun personality, that I can't help but wonder why she has so few friends. She managed to tell me a lot of things about them in that small amount of time that we spent together. It turned out that Y/n often hung out with my sisters, and I didn't even know about it, being constantly busy with my job. I honestly regret that I missed so much because of it.

"Wait, so you literally had to kiss Mary-Kate? It's gross. Ew. It's definitely not what I needed and wanted to know." I can't help, but feel a bit jealous of my sister. She got to kiss Y/n and I didn't? Wait, I'm definitely not supposed to even think in this direction.

"That's how truth and dare work, silly" she brightly smiled at my scrunched expression. "I just had no choice!" I just grunted something in response, receiving from her another tender giggle.

The trail of my thoughts and memories is interrupted by someone's knocking on the door. "Come in" I say already knowing who is on the other side of it.

"Hey, Lizzie, can we talk about something?" I look up from the book I picked up to take my mind off her and, by the way, miserably failed. Instantly being met with my fiancé's eyes, I offer him to sit next to me on the bed.

"So, what do you want to talk about?" I'm actually surprised with his desire to express his worries, feelings, or thoughts, because it's usually me who starts all of such conversations. So probably it's something important. His face doesn't hide the awkwardness and I patiently wait for him to start.

"Why did we stop having sex, Lizzie?" Oh no. No, no, no. I wasn't ready to answer this question, because I don't even know the truth myself.

"Is it the most substantial thing for you in our relationship, Boyd?" The best defense is a good offense.

"Of course not, I just want to know if I'm doing something wrong. Or you don't want me anymore?" Have I ever truly did? I have no idea and my own confusion about it annoys me so fucking much. But there's complexity, and then there's lying. And I don't know if I can be called a liar.

"It's not about that and you have nothing to do with it. I'm just too tired and disquieted right now, so I can't find the right mood for it." Well, at least now there were no lies in my words and I don't have an extra reason for self-flagellation. I mean, I'm not that disrespectful to myself to have sex with someone, if I don't want to. But disrespectful enough to marry a person I don't want to spend a life with, yeah, Lizzie?

Boyd cleared his throat, snapping me back out of my mini-journey into the valley of disappointment. "Okay, I won't force you to do anything." What a gentleman. What's wrong with me? He treats me well and I love him, so I shouldn't be this sarcastic towards him even in my head. "But we have to decide on the date of the wedding, our parents are already asking too much questions about it" he smiles at me and I understand, that I can't avoid this conversation this time. Seeing him so happy and excited about the upcoming wedding makes me want to do everything for it to happen. I can't let anyone down.

"Do you have any ideas, darling?" I smile half sincerely, preparing for a few hours of discussion of all the details.

A/n: hey everyone :) let me know what do you think about this story and if you have any ideas for the future chapters :)

[waitimcomingtoo]

Plank All Over Me - 72 Questions With Vogue Edition

Pairing: Tom Holland x Reader

Plank All Over Me Series Masterlist

Regular Masterlist

“Hi. I’m here from Vogue. Mind if I ask you a few questions?”

“Oh, hey. Didn’t see you there.” You flirtatiously flipped your perfectly curled hair over your shoulder and winked at the camera. “Come on in.”

You walked inside your house, and gestured for the camera man to follow. In preparation for the interview, you and Tom had gotten out every award you’d ever won and strategically placed them around the house. You smiled at the camera and rubbed your hand over your growing baby bump.

“Welcome to my crib. Sorry it’s such a mess.” You rolled your eyes and faked a laugh, knowing the house was far from being a mess. You kept walking and saw Tom in the living room, polishing on of his awards with a feather duster.

“Oh my stars.” You feigned a gasp once you spotted Tom. “Is that my husband, the critically acclaimed movie star and Lip-sync battle winner, Tom Holland? I had no idea he was home.” You winked at the camera again.

“Oh, hello.” Tom stopped dusting and posed with a smile. “Don’t mind me. I was just cleaning this.”

“Might want to give that a dusting too.” You pointed to one of your awards before sending the camera another huge smile.

“Are you guys ready to answer some questions?” The camera guy asked.

“I was born ready.” Tom concurred with a smile.

“You were a C section baby.” You reminded him. “You weren’t even born.”

“I was removed ready.” He kept the same tone in his voice.

“Where did you meet?” The camera man asked as you and Tom began to walk towards your backyard.

“We met at BBC Radio 1 while doing the Plank All Over Me challenge.” Tom answered.

“Where was your first date?”

“Cracker Barrel.” You winked at the camera as you opened your back door. Tom laughed and shook his head at your joke.

“It was not. We got milkshakes at an Ice Cream Shop in Soho.” He corrected you.

“Who made the first move?”

“Why, he did.” You touched a hand to your heart. “He found me after the planking challenge, both our arms sore and aching, and asked me out on a date. We’ve been together ever since.”

“When you did you move in together?”

“About six months into the relationship when I realized she had a bigger bathroom than me.” Tom answered as he took a seat in one of your decorative deck chairs.

“How long have you been together?”

“Since September 29, 2019 at precisely 6:33 p.m.” You responded.

“Wow. Just a year?”

“Realistically, we’ve been together for a few years, but that’s when this series was first posted.” You shrugged. Tom and the camera blinked in confusion for a few minutes as they processed what you said.

“Moving on.” The camera man cleared his throat. “Tom, how did you pick an engagement ring?”

“I went into the shop and I said “which is the least expensive because I’m trying to buy a Porsche” and that’s how she ended up with this bad boy.” Tom smirked as he held up your hand to show off your engagement ring.

“I can’t wait to tell our baby that story.” You played along as you rubbed your baby bump.

“When did you know you wanted to propose?”

“As soon as she started whining because the planking was hurting her arms, I knew she was the one.” Tom joked.

“Did you know he was going to propose?”

“Surprisingly, no.” You laughed. “It’s the one secret he’s ever kept.

“I nearly got an ulcer from trying to keep it from her.” Tom blew out a breath.

“Who planned the majority of the wedding?”

“I did.” You declared. “I had to text Tom the morning of the wedding to remind him where the venue was.”

“Did either of you cry?”

“As soon as I mentioned the yoga challenge in my vows, the whole room was sobbing.” Tom teased.

“How big was the reception?”

“Let’s just say, we had all the Avengers there.” Tom nodded.

“All the important ones, anyway.” You joked. “Mackie couldn’t make it.”

“How did you spend your honeymoon?”

“We went to Bali and didn’t see any of it.” Tom smirked, earning a playful smack on the arm from you.

“What’s been your favorite video together?”

“I loved the prank with Josh.” You answered with a smile.

“I didn’t.” Tom shook his head. “I nearly threw hands with a ginger that day. I quite liked the friendship test.”

“What video gave you the fondest memories?”

“Spill your Guts, for sure. That’s when I learned about the existence of this one.” Tom beamed as he rubbed your baby bump.

“What was your least favorite video to film?”

“We already know Tom’s answer.” You chuckled.

“Prank interview.” He stated. “To this day, I hate it.”

“Did you see yourself getting married when you first met?”

“All I saw were the nose hairs in Tom’s nostrils when we first met.” You laughed. “After all, he did plank on me for six and a half minutes.”

“I had a feeling we would.” Tom smiled shyly. “Or a hope, at least.”

You pouted at his sincerity and leaned forward to kiss him, which his happily accepted.

“Have you thought of baby names?”

“Josh.” You answered immediately and Tom groaned.

“I’m kidding.” You rolled your eyes. “I really like the name Ryan Reynolds though.”

”What are you hoping for?”

“An oscar.” Tom answered at the same time you said “A divorce.”

“You already want a divorce?” The camera man laughed.

“Oh, not a divorce from Tom.” You assured him. “I want Ryan Reynolds to divorce Blake Lively so he can marry me instead.” You explained as Tom nodded along.

“And I want to die every time she says that.” He cracked a smile.

“Let’s get back to the baby questions.” The camera man said as you began to move around the yard. “Do you know the gender?”

“We do.” Tom said deviously. “But we’re not telling.”

“Do you think the baby will be more like their mother or their father?”

“Definitely me.” You stated.

“Why are you so sure?”

“Because Tom’s not the father.” You smiled sweetly. Tom stared at the camera with an unamused expression and shook his head.

“Who’s going to be the fun parent?”

“Considering I’m the parent who can swing from buildings, I say me.” Tom boasted.

“Who’s going to teach the baby how to read?”

“I am. And after the baby learns, they can teach Tom.” You smiled as you patted Tom’s shoulder.

“Do you think the baby will like to plank?”

“If they’re anything like their mommy, no.” Tom poked fun at you.

“And if they’re anything like their daddy, they’ll grow up to play the Green Lantern.” You shot back.

“Hahahah. She’s so funny.” Tom forced a laugh at your joke.

“Do you think the baby will develop your senses of humor?”

“Wait, you have a sense of humor?” You asked Tom. “You didn’t tell me that.”

“She loves me so much, it’s crazy.” Tom deadpanned towards the camera.

“Do you want the baby to grow up to be an actor or actress like you guys?”

“I just want the baby to be happy.” Tom gave a serious answer. “Every thing else will fall into place on its own.”

“That’s a great answer. Do you think you’ll post about the baby a lot of keep them out of the spotlight for the first few years of their life?”

“I think we’ll wait until they’re at least 4 months old until we exploit them for our own financial gain.” You said and Tom nodded along.

“Have you picked out the godparents yet?”

“Hugh Jackman and Jake Gyllenhaal.” You joked. “They’re so excited. Jake said he would take the baby fishing.”

“He’s taken me fishing a few times.” Tom said as he stared off.

“How have you been preparing for the baby?”

“Well, I personally stopped sleeping, changed my whole diet, started lactating, and my pelvic bone separated in the middle so that I could push the baby out. Tom, what did you do?” You tilted your head at him.

“I bought the car seat.” Tom said proudly. “My wife picked it out, though.”

“I also drove him there.” You glared at the camera for a moment, cracking a smile after your joke.

“What are you most looking forward to after the baby is born?”

“Laying on my stomach.” You laughed as you looked down at your protruding bump.

“I also miss laying on her stomach.” Tom pouted as he rubbed the bump. “That was my favorite cuddle position.”

“Aw. I’m sorry we can’t cuddle the way you want to anymore because I’m growing your child inside my body.” You said sarcastically, making Tom laugh.

“Thank you for growing our child inside your body. I don’t say it enough.” Tom praised as he leaned in for a kiss.

“You’re welcome.” You smiled at him before turning to the camera man. “Anything else you want to know?”

“Actually, I have a question.” Tom stated as he looked at the camera.

“What’s that?” The camera man asked. You and Tom looked at each other and exchanged a smile before turning back the the camera.

“Are you excited to meet our baby girl?”

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[charlies-gillespie]

a quiet wedding | charlie gillespie

paring: fem!reader x charlie gillespie

summary: Charlie and reader get quietly married in an intimate ceremony with only their family and closest friends

requested: no

length: shorter

rating: PG

warnings: a few emotional moments (& very fluffy), a sexual joke or two

!! MY GIF - give creds if used !!

MASTERLIST

author’s note: prompts list is coming at noon est today. i got it done earlier than friday so it’s going up today

another author’s note: “je t’aime” means “i love you” in french. “je t’adore” means “i adore you” in french

It happened so quickly. From the day you got engaged to Charlie until today took about three months. It happened quickly but you know that you want to spend the rest of your life with Charlie. You wouldn’t have said yes to his proposal if you didn’t want to spend the rest of your life with Charlie.

The fans know of your relationship with Charlie, even though you both have kept your relationship mostly out of the public eye. After a slip up or two from you both, fans caught on so you both confirmed your relationship to stop the speculation. Neither of you said anything about the engagement or about your pending wedding. You wear the engagement ring on your necklace while in public and on your finger when alone with Charlie or your friends or your family.

It’s not that you don’t want the fans to know, but you’re both 22-years-old and really young. There’s nothing wrong with getting married young but there are a lot of people with harsh opinions out there, and you’ve always been sensitive to harsh comments even though you’re an actress and singer.

So, you and Charlie decided to get married in the backyard of your childhood home, away from any prying eyes. Your parents still live there and the backyard has a beautiful view of the mountain range since your parents live very close to the Pocono Mountains in Pennsylvania. The house is pretty big since your parents both make good money as doctors.

You get ready in your childhood bedroom. Your bridesmaids, who consist of Savannah and your sister, both stand in lilac colored gowns as Savannah curls your hair. She puts little white flowers throughout the curls to decorate the style a bit.

Your sister works on your makeup and you try to keep yourself composed. You’re marrying the love of your life today after a three month engagement but a four year relationship. You’ve waited so long for this day and it’s finally here. You can’t wait to say ‘I do’ to Charlie in a few moments.

“Okay,” Savannah says. “Hair is done.”

Your sister closes her eyeshadow palette and says, “And so is makeup. We’re ready for the dress.”

Curious, you open your eyes and look in the mirror. You smile at the sight. Your sister did a silver smokey eye look with a nude lip color. Your curls are loose with the little white flowers scattered throughout.

There’s a knock on the door as your sister lays the dress across your bed. Savannah goes and answers the door. “Mrs. L/N,” she says. “Come on in. We were about to put the dress on.”

You turn in your seat to see your mother in a light pink dress that ends at her knees. She wears a black belt around her waist and black heels. She smiles and when she smiles, you see yourself. You and your mother are practically twins. She holds a veil with a tiara on it.

“Wow,” your mother gasps. “You look so beautiful, darling.”

Your eyes are still on the veil with the tiara in her hands. “What’s that?” you ask.

She looks down and says, “Your something blue, something old, and something borrowed. There’s a little blue gem on the tiara. This veil was your grandmothers, mine, and now yours.”

Savannah takes the tiara from your mother, putting it in your hair and securing it with a bobby pin or two. “I love it,” you announce. “It’s beautiful.”

The girls in your room all smile at you. Your sister unzips the bag with the dress and says, “Okay. We have about twenty minutes before the ceremony begins so let’s go.”

The dress you bought is a white strapless mermaid style satin wedding dress, which means it hugs your body until it flares out at your knees. The fabric from your knees up is ruched, which makes it look bunched up in a way. A diamond belt sits on your waist to sparkle the dress up a bit.

You watch in the mirror as your sister works at tying up the dress behind you. The dress hugs your figure and shows off your curves.

“Look at you,” your mother says. “Charlie is a very lucky man.” You can hear your mother choking back a few tears.

With a little laugh, you say, “Please don’t cry because then I’ll cry.”

Your sister chimes in and says, “Please don’t ruin my masterpiece. I worked hard on that.”

All four of you in the room laugh when there’s another knock on your door. Your sister opens it. You look and see Owen in the doorway. “Everything’s ready when you are, Y/N. By the way, you look very pretty.”

“Thank you, Owen,” you say, smiling. “We’ll be down in a moment.” He nods and closes the door.

It’s a very small wedding. Your parents, older sister, older brothers, blood aunts, uncles, first cousins, grandparents, and their plus ones on your side. Charlie’s parents, younger sister, older brothers, blood aunts, uncles, first cousins, grandparents, and their plus ones on his side. Plus Owen, Jeremy, Savannah, Cheyenne, Booboo, Madison, Sacha, and several other cast members from Julie and the Phantoms that you and Charlie consider yourself close with were invited, plus their plus ones. There’s maybe fifty or so people here. Compared to the probably two hundred or so that would have come if you invited every single family member and friend the two of you have.

With a sigh, you leave the room with your mother, Sav, and your sister. You wait in the dining room. Owen, Jeremy, and your father wait in there already. You look out the window to see everyone making conversation in the backyard in their seats. The white arch decorated with flowers looks nice with the mountains as a backdrop. You can see Charlie speaking with the ordained minister that is officiating the wedding under the arch as he waits for you.

Your mother hugs you and says, “You look stunning, Y/N. This is your day. Enjoy it.”

“Thank you, momma,” you say, holding back tears of your own now. Your mom pulls back from the hug and kisses your nose. You smile and she walks away.

Jeremy pairs up with your sister and Owen pairs up with Savannah. Your father walks over with your bouquet of white and lilac roses. “You ready, Y/N?” You nod and look up at your father. He looks very nice in his suit and his hair neatly combed back.

The pairs begin to walk out and conversation dies down. Madison plays the piano because you asked and you thought it would make the day more special if she played you down the aisle.

Your father hooks his left arm with your right arm and begins to walk down the “aisle”. The aisle is a space between the two sections of seats decorated with white roses.

As you walk, your eyes are on Charlie. He has a big smile on his face as he watches you. His hair is in his naturally wavy state and he’s clean shaven. He looks handsome in his suit and tie with a little bouquet of white flowers pinned to his jacket. You can see his big eyes full of happy tears, which spill onto his cheeks even though he tries to hold them back.

When you get to the arch, your father hands you away to Charlie. Mads stops playing when you’re both under the arch and you hand your bouquet back to your sister.

The minister begins, “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here to celebrate the love of these two people. If there is some reason to why these two should not be wed, speak up now or forever hold your peace.”

Your eyes don’t leave Charlie’s as no one objects. The minister continues, “If the bride and groom have any vows, they can speak now.”

“I have a few things I’d like to say,” you say, smiling at Charlie. The minister nods and you continue speaking. “Charlie, we met five years ago. We were there for each other before either of us found real fame. I promised you when we started dating that I would be there for you after either of us found real fame. This is me renewing that promise. I promise to love you, to trust you, to be with you forever no matter what. I promise to support any role that you take, or don’t take. I promise to be there for you when you get frustrated at anything, and I promise to love you through your worst days.”

Charlie sniffles a bit and the crowd “awes”. Your fiancé smiles and says, “I don’t know how to top that but here we go. Y/N, je t'aime. Je t’adore. There are so many ways to tell you that I love you and that I adore you in every way possible, but there are not enough ways to tell you that I love and adore you. We met five years ago and I knew then that I’d be standing here with you. I knew that you were the woman I was going to marry one day. We’ve been together for four years now, and I have never taken any day out of the past four years for granted. We’ve created so many memories together. We’ve recently been creating music together. I’m going to be super cheesy when I say it but I’m going to say it anyway. No music is worth making, Y/N, if I’m not making it with you. No memory is worth making, Y/N, if I’m not making it with you. No regrets. Je t’aime, I love you.”

You were able to hold it together until Charlie pulled out the “no music is worth making” line. You loved that line when he said it in the show, and he just pulled it out as he said his vows. You grow antsy, wanting to kiss him already.

The minister says, “Okay, the rings.” Owen pulls them out of his suit pocket. Of course Charlie had to give Owen the rings.

“Repeat after me, Y/N,” the minister says. You nod. “I, Y/N L/N, take thee Charles Gillespie to be my lawfully wedded husband in sickness and in health, til death do us part.”

With a smile on your face, you say, “I, Y/N L/N, take thee Charles Gillespie to be my lawfully wedded husband in sickness and in health, til death do us part.”

You slide Charlie’s silver band onto his left ring finger. The minister says, “Your turn, Charlie. Repeat after me. I, Charles Gillespie, take thee Y/N L/N to be my lawfully wedded wife in sickness and in health, til death do us part.”

Charlie states into your eyes and repeats, “I, Charles Gillespie, take thee Y/N L/N to be my lawfully wedded wife in sickness and in health, til death do us part.”

He slides your silver band onto your left ring finger. Your engagement ring is on your right ring finger.

The minister says, “With the power invested in me by the state of Pennsylvania, I pronounce you husband and wife. Charlie, you may kiss your bride.”

Charlie doesn’t hesitate after that. He cups your face in his hands and pulls your lips to his. The crowd cheers as you seal the wedding with a kiss.

***

The backyard is quickly turned into a reception area with a tent and everything. You don’t ever leave Charlie’s side the whole night.

You have your first dance with Charlie as a married couple, dancing to Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran. This was the song you both first danced to when you started dating so to come full circle, you made it your wedding song.

Your head is on his chest as he holds you in his arms. He looks down at you and says, “You look absolutely gorgeous, Y/N. I don’t think I’ve told you that enough times tonight.”

“Just because you can be cheesy, don’t mean you always should be,” you say, looking up at your new husband.

Charlie says, “Well, then to make it less cheesy, I think you look beautiful but you’ll look even more beautiful when that dress is on the floor and you’re underneath me naked.”

You playfully hit his shoulder and say, “Charles Gillespie. Now is not the time for sexual jokes.”

He smirks and says, “You married me. You’ll be hearing them all the time now.”

With a laugh from you both, you lean up and press a light kiss to Charlie’s lips. Both of you share these types of kisses all through the night, until you’re alone in your hotel room in Paris for your two-week long honeymoon.

[fruitcoops]

Hi!! So I was listening to paper rings by Taylor Swift today and the lyric 'I like shiny things but I'd marry you with paper rings' made me think of coops and o'knutzy. Could you write a prompt about this?! <3

This song is so perfect for Coops and it’s the best way to start of the long-awaited wedding series! Yay! Sweater Weather credit goes to @lumosinlove!

Combined with:

1. Domestic Coops

2. Remus making fun of Sirius’ initials

3. Sirius trying to make Remus moan while he’s on the phone with his folks

4. From @colored-rain: Taking Hattie to the vet

TW for mild smutty content, taking a pet to the vet, and the inherent stress of wedding planning

I: Six Weeks Before the Wedding

“Where are we even going to do this?” Sirius asked, running a hand through his hair.

Remus shook his head silently, pressing his forehead into the wooden edge of the table. “What if we elope?”

“Celeste would skin us both.”

“True. Oh, god, my dad would cry if we did that.” Remus slid down in his seat and stared up with sad eyes. “Can’t we just be married already?”

“I could get tinfoil from the kitchen and just…” Sirius mimed wrapping it around his ring finger and Remus snorted.

“Baby, I would marry you with paper rings, but I think we want them to last.”

“You like shiny things!”

“I do, that doesn’t mean I want tinfoil on my hand for the rest of my life,” Remus laughed, pulling him in for a quick kiss. “Alright, let’s go through our list again. We agreed on small, right?”

“Just the team and families. We still want it to be outside?”

“Yep.” Remus checked off two boxes on the piece of paper they had been grappling with for the past four days. “Rings have already been ordered?”

“I’m doing that this afternoon. What kind of cake do we want?”

“Uhhh…an edible one?” Remus shrugged. “I don’t have a huge preference. Chocolate is really good but all the ones from the store are spongy.”

“Wow, an edible cake, so original,” Sirius teased. “We can ask Celeste what she thinks.”

“Good plan.” He paused for a moment. “Where outside will we do it? We need an actual venue. I think people would be upset if we just had a wedding in a public park.”

“The media would be all over it, too.” Sirius scrunched his nose up in thought just as their timer went off and both sighed as they headed for the door. “It’s going to be hard to focus on practice when we know next to nothing about the wedding we’ve been planning for over six months.”

“We’re disasters.”

II: Four Weeks Before the Wedding

“We’re not putting that on the cards.”

“Why not?” Sirius frowned and looked down at the mock-up invitation. “It’s our initials. It’s cute.”

Remus blinked at him. “Sirius. Your initials.”

“Do you not want my initials on our joint wedding invitation?”

“I would love to have your initials on our joint wedding invitation, except for the part where it’s the same acronym as ‘son of a bitch’.”

Sirius paused, then groaned and put his hands over his face. “Fuck, I forgot about that.”

“You forgot your own initials?”

“I forgot the son of a bitch thing!”

“Okay, I clearly don’t tease you enough for that,” Remus snickered, wrapping an arm around his waist to kiss his cheek. “Alright, attempt number eight is a bust.”

III: Three Weeks Before the Wedding

Sirius ran his fingers gently through Remus’ hair, feeling him shift in the darkness. “What’s on your mind, mon amour?”

“Are we changing our last names?”

“Did we…not discuss that?” Sirius wracked his brain, but it was so exhausted from wedding topics that he came up empty.

“I don’t think so.” Remus scooted around so he was on his side, facing Sirius. “Both our names are super connected to our jobs. Plus, Lupin-Black might be a little long for jerseys.”

“I’d rather not go through the whole name-change process.” There was a beat of quiet. “Though I do like the sound of Sirius Lupin.”

Remus’ breath audibly caught and he leaned closer to Sirius, nuzzling against his shoulder. “I love you.”

“I love you, too.”

IV: Eighteen Days Before the Wedding

Remus’ back hit the mattress with a soft bounce that was quickly stilled by Sirius’ weight pressing him down by the hips, his mouth skimming along all the right places on Remus’ neck. “Yes,” he hissed as Sirius ground down, their bare chests bumping together. He dipped his hands beneath the waistband of Sirius’ sweats and he shivered, nipping the hinge of his jaw.

“Wait,” Sirius gasped, pulling back to straddle Remus’ waist.

“What? Is this a flamingo moment?” Remus panted, still buzzing with arousal.

“Did we invite your parents to the wedding?”

Remus stared at him in disbelief. “Are you fucking kidding me right now?”

“I don’t think we did.”

“Sirius, you are literally about to—holy fuck, did we invite my parents?”

“I don’t know!”

Remus groaned and let his head fall back against the pillows before tapping Sirius’ hip and swinging his legs over the edge of the mattress. He grabbed his phone off the nightstand and dialed his mother’s number, taking a few deep breaths to collect himself as it rang.

“Hello?”

“Hey, mom, how’s it going?”

“Oh, it’s going fine out here. How’s wedding planning?” Hope asked. Remus could hear her smiling.

“That’s what I’m calling about, actually. Did you—” He bit his lip as Sirius’ fingertips trailed up his thigh. “Uh, did you get an invitation?”

Hope was silent for a moment, save for a few rustling sounds. “Now that you mention it, I don’t think so. Lyall! Honey, did Re send us a wedding invitation?” There was a low humming noise as his father responded. “He says we didn’t get one.”

Remus winced. “Sorry about that. I can text you the details, if you want.”

“Will you mail one as well? I want to put it in our memory box.”

Sirius’ hand slid further along Remus’ leg, growing closer to his inner thigh by the second and doing nothing to quell his frayed nerves. “Yeah—yeah, mom, we totally can.”

“Are you alright? You sound a bit out of breath.”

“Hattie was running around and being a little crazy.” Remus covered the speaker with his hand and turned to glare at Sirius, who grinned and kissed his cheekbone.

“Okay,” Hope sounded skeptical. “So you’re not getting sick or anything?”

“Nope. Healthy as a horse.” The last word came out a little breathless as Sirius licked a stripe up his neck and bit down on the junction to his shoulder, making Remus’ eyes flutter closed. He smacked Sirius’ hand halfheartedly and felt him grin.

“How’s Sirius doing?”

“Fine, he’s fine. We’re a little stressed with the wedding planning and everything, but things are good here.” Really good, he thought as the heel of Sirius’ hand pressed down just next to his dick. He swallowed down a moan and squeezed his eyes shut. “Alright, I’ll text the details to you this afternoon love you mom bye.”

“Love you t—”

A millisecond after the call ended, Remus slammed his phone into the nightstand and pushed Sirius into the sheets, bracketing his face with his elbows. “What the fuck was that?”

“I’m just keeping things interesting.” Sirius tugged his lower lip between his teeth and smirked, which really left Remus with only one option: kissing him senseless until he couldn’t even remember his own name.

V: Three Days Before the Wedding

Sirius’ leg bounced up and down nervously and he gripped Remus’ hand as they waited in the lobby of the vet’s office. “She’ll be okay.” His voice was noticeably higher than usual and he cleared his throat. “She’ll be fine. It’s just a cough.” A cough that’s been going on for four and a half days.

Remus hummed his agreement, though he hadn’t stopped twisting Hattie’s leash in his hands since they arrived. “Just a cough. Probably a cold, or—or something like that.”

The doors ahead opened and both of them stood as Hattie trotted out next to the vet tech, who looked rather amused. “What’s wrong with her?” Sirius asked, scanning her for any signs of illness. “Is she alright?”

“She is a very talented actress,” the vet said, rubbing Hattie behind the ears. She whined pitifully and cuddled into Sirius’ side. “Have you two been busy lately?”

“We’re planning for our wedding.” Remus looked as confused as Sirius felt. “Why?”

“Because Miss Hattie here is one of the healthiest, snuggliest dogs I’ve ever seen.”

“But she was coughing.”

“She was faking.” The vet knelt next to her and petted down her back, raising an eyebrow. “Weren’t you, munchkin?”

“Hattie!” Sirius exclaimed, torn between relief and shock. “You little monster!”

Remus frowned and tapped her forehead lightly as he slid her leash on over her head. “We were so worried about you! Why would you do that?”

“She’s probably been sulking because you’re busy with wedding stuff,” the vet said with a smile. “Quite the drama queen you’ve got there.”

“Tell me about it,” Sirius huffed as he kissed her head. “Don’t ever do that again, young lady. You’re in big trouble when we get home.”

“Thank you for your help,” Remus said, shaking the vet’s hand. “We really appreciate it and we’re so sorry for wasting your time.”

“Are you kidding? She was the best part of my day,” he laughed. “All the other techs can’t stop talking about Hattie cuddles now. Have a good one, you three.”

+1: The Lions, the Media, and the Locker Room

Word spread like wildfire in media circles, and the rumor mill had never worked harder once news of the Black-Lupin wedding came out.

Naturally, the Lions decided to have a little fun with it.

“Pots! Pots, what can you tell us about Black and Lupin’s wedding?” Four different microphones were shoved into his personal space, but James put on his best confused face.

“What wedding?”

A wave of murmuring spread through the reporters. “So you weren’t invited to Sirius Black and Remus Lupin’s wedding?”

“There’s a wedding?”

Across the room, two other interviewers mobbed Thomas Walker in his stall. “Talker, do you know anything about Black and Lupin’s wedding?”

“Who?” he asked with a perfect act of innocence.

“Sirius Black and Remus Lupin.”

He bit his lip. “I don’t think I know them, sorry. Are they fans?”

“Talkie!” Remus tossed him a towel from the adjacent stall, and he caught it with a grin.

“Heads up, Loops!” Talker threw it right back and headed toward the ice baths with a wink to the cameras. “Good chat, guys.”

One of the interviewers muttered under their breath and hurried over to Pascal, who was still unlacing his skates. “Dumo, when is the wedding between Sirius Black and Remus Lupin?”

Dumo frowned. “Quoi?”

“The wedding. You were invited, yes?”

“Desole, je ne parle pas l’anglais,” he said regretfully. “C’est un…wedding?”

“Yes, the wedding between your teammates.”

“These words, I don’t know them.” His French accent was almost comically thick as he shook his head. “Desole.”

Out of view of the cameras, Sirius gave him a thumbs-up and reached over to high-five Pots.

[falcqns]

Kiwi

Pairing: Henry Cavill x Reader

Summary: Direct sequel to Medicine, spread out over a few months.

Warnings: smut, angst, mentions of childbirth and pregnancy

A/N: Hope you enjoy!

Kiwi

She worked her way through a cheap pack of cigarettes Hard liquor mixed with a bit of intellect

You woke up the next morning to the feeling of Henry trailing kisses along your neck. You moaned slightly at the feeling before rolling over to face him.

“Good morning,” You whispered, and he smiled at your tiredness.

“Good morning, angel,” 

You snuggled in to him closer, relishing in his warmth.

He smiled, and pressed a kiss to your shoulder. “I’ve been wanting that for so long,” He said.

You giggled. “Me too. I just got tired of watching you be flirted with, and you unconsciously flirting back.”

Henry chuckled once more before pulling the blanket off of your body, and climbing on top of you once more.

“Mmm, well,” He started. “I thought that you didn't like me like that so I had direct my feelings somewhere,”

You giggled, and kissed him. “I’m glad I made a move, then,”

Henry broke out into a smile.

“Me too, my love. Now, I am starving, as I am sure you are, so let’s go get food.”

And all the boys, they were saying they were into it Such a pretty face, on a pretty neck

“Kal, you gotta stop bugging me buddy, I’m trying to make dinner for your daddy, who should be home any minute,” You said, glancing between the very excited Akita and the clock.

Henry had been on set all day filming, and since your next film hadn’t started pre production yet, you didn’t have anything to do.     

Instead, you had taken up babysitting Kal whenever Henry couldn't bring him to set.

It was a Friday, and wanted to cook Henry a nice meal, but was having trouble due to Kal wanting to be involved in everything you were doing, even if it meant following you to the bathroom.

You managed to plate the chicken parm and veggies just when Henry entered the kitchen.

“Hey baby,” He said, before pulling you into his arms. You immediately wrapped your arms around him, and embraced him tightly.

“Hey, how was filming?” You asked, handing him his plate before walking into the dining room with yours in hand.

The two of you sat at the table, and Henry told you about his day.

As soon as the dinner dishes were cleared away, you were hauled up and over Henrys shoulder.

“Henry, what are you doing?” You asked, while trying to free yourself from his grasp.

“What? It’s dessert time!” 

She's driving me crazy, but I'm into it, but I'm into it I'm kind of into it

“You should just ask him already!” Freya said. You were on FaceTime, during Christmas, and your conversation had quickly turned to talking about Henry.

“I don't think he’s even looking for anything serious, so why should he care if I go out with another guy?” You said, while opening a fruit snack for your little brother.

“Well, he shouldn't, but he’s pretty serious about you, Y/N,” She answered.

You watched as your brother walked away from you, back to his tablet to play Roblox while you thought of what to say.

“I’m serious about him too, we’ve just never actually had the talk about what we are, and I don't know how to approach something like that with him,” You reasoned.

“Well, I would do it soon, because Lucy is starting on set next week, so I’d bag that man while you still have the chance,”

“Yeah, you're right. I’ll talk to him.” You resolved, and Freya cheered.

“Thank god because if I had to deal with Lucy fawning over him again for a whole year I’d pull a Calanthe,”

it's getting crazy, I think I'm losing it, I think I'm losing it Oh, I think she said "I'm having your baby, it's none of your business"

You were fucked. Royally fucked.

You were pregnant. Specifically, with Henry’s baby.

You two weren't even dating, and you were going to have his child. You understood now why Kal was being so stubborn, and wanting to be with you 24/7. He knew you were pregnant, and was trying to protect you.

You were going to set today, to surprise him, so you decided to tell him. 

You didn't know how he would react, but you were hoping it would be good, so you went out and bought a Superman onesie, and put it in a gift bag with the sonogram and one of the many pregnancy tests you had taken.

You were excited to tell him, but that excitement died down when you had gotten to set, and entered Henry’s trailer. He was sat on the couch, with Lucy beside him. 

The two of them were sitting very close, and was laughing about something.

Henry’s eyes widened immediately when he saw you enter his trailer.

“B-baby, what are you doing here?” He stuttered.

“Well,” You said, anger bubbling up inside you. “I was coming to surprise you, but obviously you're busy, so I’ll just leave,” You said. You placed the gift bag on the table next to you and stormed out.

“Fuck,” He said, when you slammed his trailer door shut.

Lucy cleared her throat. “Well, I’m just gonna go,” She said.

“I didn't realize you had a girlfriend, I’m so sorry,” 

Henry shook his head. “She’s not my girlfriend, yet anyways, but it’s okay. You didn't know.”     

They two of them said goodbye, and Lucy headed out. His eyes drifted over to the gift you had brought him.

He grabbed the small bag, and opened it. He pulled out the onesie and his heart dropped.

You were coming to tell him he was going to be a father, and he broke your heart.

He pulled the sonogram out of the bag, and sat back down on the couch, tears escaping his blue eyes as he stared down at the pictures of his baby.

It's New York, baby, always jacked up Holland Tunnel for a nose, it's always backed up

He put the sonogram and the onesie back in the bag, and grabbed his car keys.

He needed to see you, and make sure you were okay.

He ran out of his trailer, and off set, only stopping to let Lauren know what happened and where he was going.

He sped to your apartment, where he knew you'd gone.

He hopped out of the car, and raced to your apartment door, the bag still in tow.

A loud pounding came on the door, and you managed to muster enough strength to get out of bed and pull yourself to the door.

The second you opened the door, you saw a large black wall come right at your face, and before you knew it, you were wrapped up in the warmth and scent of Henry.

“I am so, so sorry,” He sobbed out into your shoulder. “Please, baby. Please believe me,”

Your hands came around his waist, and you began to cry again.

“I’m sorry too.” 

He immediately pulled back and looked you in the eyes. “Don't. Don’t apologize. I should have asked you that morning to be my girlfriend and I didn't.  Now you're pregnant, with my baby, and I just broke your heart.”    

You looked up at him once more. “I just want you to be happy. If you're happier with her, I understand. I don't expect you to be involved if you don't want to.”

He didn't say anything, but shut the door, scooped you up, and carried you over to the couch. 

He sat down with you on his lap. He hiked your shirt up, and laid his hand on your slightly bloated stomach.

“I only have eyes for you, and I want to be involved. I mean, you know how much I want kids.” He said, his eyes not leaving your stomach. “Please, be mine,” He begged, finally meeting your eyes.

You smiled. “Of course, I’ll be your girlfriend,” You whispered, before pressing a kiss to his lips.

He shook his head when you pulled back. “N-no. I want you to be my wife.”   

Your eyes widened, but a smile spread across your face.

“Yes, of course.”

When she's alone, she goes home to a cactus In a black dress, she's such an actress

Your hands were played on Henry’s chest for support, your diamond wedding ring sparkling in the daylight. He had one hand on your hip, and the other over the small bump that had begun to show while you rocked yourself over his hard cock.

“Fuck, you feel so good, baby,” Henry groaned. He was absolutely loving your changing hormones, especially right now, as it meant you were alway horny for him.

“Mmm,” You whimpered out, your hips moving even faster above him as you felt your orgasm approaching.

“Such a pretty baby,” Henry cooed at you, spurring you on. “Making me feel so so good,”    

You cried out as your orgasm surged through you. Your back arched, legs trembled, and your walls squeezed Henry. 

You felt Henry grip your hips even harder, and flipped you onto your back. He braced his arms on either side on either side of your head, before drilling his cock into you intently.

“Fuck, baby,” He murmured as he dropped his head to your neck, and trailing kisses down your neck. “Wanna keep you like this all the time baby, so full of my baby,”

You groaned out, and wrapped your arms around his neck to pull him down for kisses.

“C’mon, baby, I know you're close,” You breathed in his ear, and he was sent over the edge. He pushed all the way in, and shuddered as the waves of pleasure washed over him. 

He pulled out of you, and rolled onto his side.

He pulled you close to him, and placed his hand on your belly.

“5 more months,” You whispered in your ear, and he smiled.

She sits beside me like a silhouette Hard candy dripping on me 'til my feet are wet And now she's all over me, it's like I paid for it (cha-ching) It's like I paid for it, I'm gonna pay for this

Henry knew from the moment that your daughter entered the world, that he had, 100%, made the right decision by taking you home a year ago.

It had been a long journey to get here, but he had a wonderful wife, and a beautiful little girl named Cirilla, and that’s all he could ever have asked for.

[doodleferp]

We Need To Talk

previous | next

Allison and Alucard (then Dracula) have a nice picnic...in the daylight. Allison reveals that she has something she wants to talk to him about.

This fic takes place in 1893 where Allison is still human. Alucard is referred to as Dracula since he hasn’t been enslaved by Van Helsing yet. The Brides of Dracula/Weird Sisters are named Florina, Micheala, and Monica after the actresses that played them in Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

TRIGGER WARNINGS: minor blood drinking, some minor morality issues, mentions of mental abuse

She didn’t know how she was able to accomplish this. Dracula, the first vampire, known to legend as a monstrous beast and bloodthirsty warmonger, sitting with her in broad daylight in the fields near his castle, partaking in human food with her.

“I was under the impression that sunlight killed vampires,” she said, trying to break the ice after a somewhat-uncomfortable silence. She took a small sip of her tea. “I assume that’s why you’re in a hooded cloak, but…I’m still curious.” She also felt the need to add very quickly, “If you don’t want to be awake right now, we can go inside and you can rest. We don’t have to do this right now.”

The vampire chuckled. “You are considerate as always, my dear,” he said. “Sun does harm vampires. But I…have been around too long. I’ve developed a bit of an immunity to it in my old age. All it does now is make me very, very tired.” He turned up his nose indignantly. “I don’t understand how I managed it when I was human. It’s so bright and yellow and it burns my eyes when I’m tired.” He took note of the increasingly-worried look on her face. “But…” he began to backpedal. “I wanted to see what you looked like during the day. The way your God meant His children to be seen.”

Allison chuckled to herself. “Was it to your liking, King of Vampires?” she asked.

“Immensely,” he sighed. “You look just as beautiful in the sun as you do in the firelight of my castle. Though I will say…I much prefer seeing your body bathed in moonlight. You look so much more…” He pondered, swirling the blood in his glass. “Natural.” He shrugged, smirking to himself. “And, of course, I don’t have to strain my eyes to be able to look at you.”

She laughed. “Vlad, we can go inside. We don’t have to sit out in the sun. Don’t be a martyr just because you think it’ll make me happy.”

“That’s where you misunderstand, dragă mea,” Dracula chuckled. “I would do whatever I could to ensure your happiness.” His expression grew solemn. “But…you did not ask me here just to discuss my vulnerabilities, did you?”

Allison’s face fell, and that’s when he knew. She sighed. “My family has been sending me letters,” she admitted.

Dracula’s voice came out in a low growl, “About your betrothed.”

“They keep asking me to come back to the States,” she continued. “They’ve begun to make plans for the wedding.”

“To your fiancé.”

“Arranged and former fiancé, Vlad,” Allison corrected him.

“And what will you write them back?” Dracula asked, a restrained anger showing through. “You have become seduced by a monster of the night and live with him in his castle, where you are doted on night in, night out by his affections, and waited upon by his servants?”

“I’ve already written them back.” Allison cut him off. With each sentence, her voice grew softer, more subdued. “I’ve told them circumstances have changed. Their most recent letter has told me that they’re coming to Transylvania to meet the fiancé I’ve disgraced them for.”

Dracula was quiet, and Allison went on, “I’ve already told enough lies about us. I didn’t want to tell any more. I told them the truth: that I’ve fallen in love with a count from Transylvania who makes me happier than I’ve ever felt.” She ran her thumb over her engagement ring. “And we’re engaged to be married.” She looked up at him. “I want my family to be involved in this, Vlad. Even if they never know I’m going to become a vampire…I at least want them to know my husband.”

His voice was soft, subdued, as if he didn’t know what to believe. “You would want your family to know of your union to a monster?”

“You are not a monster,” she snapped, the sharpness of her tone surprising him. She took a small breath and collected herself before adding “Not to me.”

A soft breath escaped him. He looked into the red occupying his glass and thought for a moment. “I…I may need to lock the Weird Sisters away for their visit,” he said. “Florina and Michaela are very well behaved, but I can not risk them being influenced by Monica’s behavior.”

“It’s fine. I understand.” Allison reached into the basket and picked two of the grapes from the vine they’d brought. “I...I hate saying that about something that sounds so awful, but it’s the best option. If Monica was left to her own devices, she could…” She paused, swallowing softly. “She’d kill them.”

She felt her shaking arm steady when his free hand took hers. “I know,” he said softly. “But I also know that there is one of them that you wouldn’t mind burying.”

“Vlad.”

“Dragă,” he said, tightening his hold on her hand just a bit. “You only need to ask me to, and I will make sure he can not harm anyone again.”

“He’s my father, Vlad.”

Dracula bared his fangs. “A father should not treat his children like pawns for status. You are you. And he should do well to accept that people have thoughts and feelings.”

Allison’s face fell. She couldn’t help it, but a dark thought came to her mind. “If you had never met me…” she asked, her fingers closing around the grapes she was holding. “Do you think you would have agreed with him?”

He was quiet, but still kept his hold on her hand. “In the past...perhaps I would have,” he said. He set his glass of blood inside the picnic basket and his other hand lay itself on her closed fingers. “But I am not that man anymore.” One of his hands came up to gently open her fingers, revealing the grapes inside her palm. “As long as I can remember, I have been taking what I wanted. But even after I tried to take something from you…” His fingers rolled one of the grapes around her palm. “You gave something to me. I can’t remember the last time something was given to me without having to force it to my possession.”

He picked up the grape he was playing with and held it out to her. “I want to give you something back.”

Allison stared at the grape, and closed her eyes. When she opened them again she looked up at him, as if she were trying to stare into his soul. “You’re trying hard to change, Vlad. I know you are.” She reached up and held the side of his face. “I don’t want my father to make you go off the edge. That’s what he does to people. He purposefully eggs them on and uses their snapping as a reason to discredit them.” Her gaze fell to the soft blanket underneath them. “He’ll use whatever he deems negative to turn you into an enemy. I don’t want you to prove him right. For your own sake.”

They sat together in a moment of silence. Then Allison leaned towards his hand and bit down on the grape he was holding. Dracula watched her with surprised eyes. “Why, you little thief,” he laughed, shaking his head at the big smile on her face.

“I was going to eat those first,” Allison insisted.

“And talking with your mouth full. Oh, you rotten child. You were so proper when you first got here.” “You’re always so feral when you drink from the trespassers. Not to mention how often you spook me in the castle halls.” She shrugged, popping the other grape into her mouth. “You made me this way. Accept it, King of Vampires; you’re corrupting me.”

Dracula sighed. “Well, I can only hope I don’t pull you too far down. If nothing else, I would at least like you to remain chaste until our wedding night.”

Allison looked back at him. “What makes you think I wouldn’t?” she asked. “I don’t have anyone else I want to run to.”

Dracula smiled at her. He reached down and took her hand, brushing his lips over her engagement ring. Allison watched him, returning his smile. “Would you like to go back inside?”

“Yes, please,” he responded almost immediately.

She couldn’t help but laugh. “At least consider my proposal.”

Dracula smiled. “I’m just very tired.”

“Alright, then. Let’s head back.” Allison picked up her cup from where she’d set it on the blanket and tried to finish drinking what she’d had left. Dracula, meanwhile, picked up the bottle in the basket and poured the blood back inside. Allison set her cup back in the basket and closed it up before standing up and getting off the blanket. “Do you want me to carry-?” She was cut off by Dracula picking up the blanket and suddenly pulling it off the grass. “Alright.”

Her fiancé smiled an impish smile. Tucking the blanket under his arm, he held his hand out to her. Smiling back at him, she took his hand, threading her fingers between his, and followed him back to the castle.

[cheri-translates]

[CN] Kiro’s Poetry and Wine Date (Eng Translation)

🍒 Warning: Detailed spoilers for a date yet to be released in EN! 🍒

Candlelit Night Collection: Gavin // Lucien // Victor

Trivia regarding the name of the date:

The date is called 诗酒趁年华, a reference to a poem called 望江南 (”wang jiang nan”) by Su Shi, a Song Dynasty poet

A loose translation - “Write poems and drink wine - take advantage of the age.”

This poem conveys how you must make full use of youth to pursue your dreams - it’s the time you’re most energetic, aggressive and courageous 

-

[ CHAPTER ONE ]

The date begins with MC in the office and realising she missed several calls from Kiro

When she calls him, he sounds really really sad :<

He states that he’s in the hospital

Without waiting for him to finish, MC hangs up the phone so she can hurry over

It turns out that Kiro was in the hospital to visit a fan, who is suffering from cancer

Kiro: [in the saddest voice ever] When she was diagnosed with late stage cancer, she planned to break up with her long-time boyfriend. But he decided to get a wedding certificate immediately and hold a wedding. Isn’t it very moving? 

He explains that after the wedding, the fan’s condition worsened, and she only has a few months left to live

Kiro: [sighs] When I just found out about it, I was really sad. [sniffs] But after you came, I feel a lot better. 

MC: Why is that so?

Kiro: Because I still want to believe that love can prolong one’s life. 

He looks into my eyes, his gaze twinkling with a strange light. 

Kiro: I believe miracles will happen. It definitely wouldn’t just be a few months. Maybe it’d be a year, two years, ten years... a lifetime. 

There is a tinging sensation in my nose, and I’m unable to suppress the tears in my eyes from flowing.

MC: Mm, I also believe so.

Kiro: Don’t be sad.

Kiro wipes my tears with his fingertips gently.

Kiro: Even though I couldn’t attend the wedding, the bride looked very happy in the recording. Happier than anyone else in the world. 

MC: She must have experienced the happiness from a wedding. 

I blink hard, suppressing my tears. Even though this story is filled with sorrow, it also feels romantic and happy at the same time. 

Kiro: Which is why I’ve decided to shoot a short film, in order to prolong that moment of happiness. 

Kiro explains that he will be the director and male lead in the film

As for the female lead...

MC: Who’s the female lead? Is she an actress I know?

Kiro: You definitely know her. 

MC: Not necessarily...

Kiro: This is the first time I’m a director, so for the other lead in this “wedding”... I could only think of you.

-

Phone call between Kiro and the fan: here

-

[ CHAPTER TWO ]

After a recording, Kiro sits in the backseat of the car. He looks out at the night scenery outside the window, and suddenly reveals a happy expression.

Kiro: She agreed.

He says this very softly, but it sounds abrupt in the quiet car. In the front seat, Savin whips his head around, his eyes filled with a cautious “what are you trying to do this time?”

Savin: Who agreed? Agreed to what? 

Kiro: I said before that I was going to shoot a short film for the fans. Miss Chips agreed to be my female lead!

Savin: MC? She can’t... wait, it seems she’s better than other actors within the circle. At least she wouldn’t try to rub off from your popularity. 

Within a short span of a minute, Savin’s words twist and turn numerous times. 

Kiro: You’ve agreed?!

Savin: No, I didn’t agree. I was just saying that her status isn’t bad, not that her acting skills are passable. 

Kiro: I’m not worried about that at all.

Savin: Why do you have so much faith in her? 

Kiro: Because I’m the groom!

Kiro speaks with exceptional confidence. After hearing this, Savin rubs his temples.

Savin: I’m starting to suspect that you’re shooting this short film with an ulterior motive in mind. 

Kiro: What ulterior motive? The reason for the shoot has always been simple. 

There is confusion in Kiro’s expression. After giving him a long stare, Savin gives up and retracts his gaze. 

Savin: That would be best. 

After Savin turns his head back to the front, Kiro secretly sticks out his tongue. 

Kiro: [whispering] I am a tiny bit selfish. But... I won’t tell anyone.

He still has many things to prepare. For instance, the location of the wedding shoot, the attire they would wear that day, and purchasing one particular item. 

That “token of love”... she will definitely like it, right?  

Thinking about this, Kiro is unable to control the corners of his lips from curling upwards. 

-

[ CHAPTER THREE ]

The day of the filming arrives. After helping MC with her outfit and make-up, the make-up artist leaves the room. Soon after, MC hears a knock at the door. She lifts up part of her head veil and opens the door.

MC: Kiro? 

I’m stunned for a second. He also seems to be frozen. His eyes contain undisguised shock, and scarlet slowly creeps up his cheeks. 

Kiro: I came to find you. 

Kiro is wearing a matching set of wedding attire. His golden hair has been tied with a ribbon. Such a bright colour makes him look as though he came out from a painting.

Kiro: Are you the only one in the room? 

He leans over, using his hand to lift up the other end of the veil. I subconsciously place my forefinger to my lips, signalling him to keep his voice down. 

But he simply winks and laughs happily. 

Kiro: Miss Chips, you look really pretty. Even more gorgeous than I imagined.

The dim sunlight does not reach this corner of the room. Dappled light passes through the lattice window. This moment seems to be slowed down infinitely, turning it into frames of light and shadow.

His eyes gleam, and the tenderness within them are reminiscent of a puddle of water, gently flowing across my heart. 

MC: W-what are you doing here? 

I try to dodge from his line of sight, but Kiro doesn’t allow me to leave. He grasps my hand and brings it to his lips. The gentle touch is like a lingering feather.

Kiro: I’m just wondering... what if I could take you away right now...

His serious tone doesn’t sound like he’s joking. I’m at a loss, waiting for him to continue. Then, he releases my hand.

Kiro: Did I scare you? I was actually just kidding. I wanted to see how you looked like in wedding attire immediately, so I secretly came over. 

MC: You...

I’m about to say something, but impending footsteps resound from outside the door, followed by knocking.

MC: Someone’s here!

She hides him near the window just as the makeup artist comes in

[Trivia: In Chinese tradition, it is considered “inappropriate” for the bride and groom to see each other the day or the night before the wedding.]

From behind, Kiro places something in her palm

Once the makeup artist is gone, Kiro asks whether she likes it - it’s the Fairy Pendant from the previous Qixi Festival (i.e. Kiro’s Valentine’s Night Date)

MC: Why is this with you? 

Kiro: Because this wedding requires a token of love. I think it’s very suitable. 

[Trivia: Tokens of love are used as promises between lovers. Unlike rings and roses in Western cultures, the ancient Chinese people were more casual. A comb, a hairpin, or even half a mirror could be used as a token of love. The value of the item itself isn’t as important as the emotions attached to it.]

Filled with nostalgia, I toy with the Fairy Pendant in my hand. I still feel slightly confused. 

MC: The script doesn’t seem to have a jade pendant involved though.

Kiro: The script... well, I have the final say!

Along with Kiro’s words, an assistant calls him from outside the room.

Kiro: Wait for me to fetch you!

His tender voice enters my ears, as light and soft as a drifting cloud. It makes one’s heart sink into it. 

[Trivia: In traditional Chinese weddings, the groom will journey to the bride’s family home on the day of the wedding to fetch her (接亲 - “jie qin”). Before he can get to his bride, he has to get past her bridesmaids by satisfying a number of tasks.]

-

[ CHAPTER FOUR ]

Watching Kiro’s retreating figure, I suddenly have the urge to ask him to stay.

As if he can sense my thoughts, he turns his head right before he leaves the courtyard, forming a “wait for me” with his mouth. 

A warmth enters my heart, and I nod my head vigorously. I return into the room, waiting for him to “fetch me”.

The “wedding” officially starts at dusk

MC stands at the doorway, waiting for the first scene

Kiro appears on a HORSE.

After the scene:

Kiro: Miss Chips, didn’t I look very cool just now?

Heat is still emanating from his body from the earlier exercise, and I subconsciously take half a step back.

MC: Yes, everyone was in a daze!

Receiving my approval, he crinkles his eyes and looks contented. 

Kiro: I’m guessing you were in a daze too. Are you ready for the next shoot?

MC: Mm, but I’m still a little nervous. What if I trip and fall because I can’t see? What if my expression doesn’t look natural when you remove the veil...

Counting on my fingers, I list down everything I’m worried about. 

Kiro: In that case, we can film it over and over again. Besides...

He lowers his head to my ear, in a volume only the two of us can hear. 

Kiro: I want you to experience the happiness of being a bride, and not just for the film.

After calming down, she puts on the veil

Kiro: I’m here to fetch you - my bride. 

MC: Mm.

Surrounded by the noise of gongs and drum, MC is carried over the threshold, then led down the red carpet

Kiro: From now onwards, you can leave everything to me. There’s still a lot in our future...

He speaks incredibly solemnly. His lines bring with it a touch of sadness, but infinite hope afterwards. 

MC: I believe so too.

I place my hand in his, and he leads me into the sedan. The little sedan sways, and my heartbeat seems to follow its ups and downs, unable to stop for a moment. 

I used to hear of people complaining that weddings are cumbersome and tiring.  But right now, the feelings I’m experiencing are incomparable to everything else.

When I disembark from the sedan, one end of an embroidered silk ball is placed into my hand. Its other end is held tightly by Kiro.

Master of Ceremonies: Things which are destined will eventually come to pass. Even across a thousand miles, people destined to marry are connected by a thread. 

I am led by this red silk, passing through the crowd and crossing the threshold. I can’t see the people surrounding me, nor can I see the cameras. 

I can only see the patterns on my skirt moving while I walk. The end of the red silk sways gently. Only one name is written in my mind and heart: Kiro.

-

They carry out the wedding procession, and MC is glad she's wearing a veil to hide her blush

The next scene happens in the newlywed room, and he removes her veil

Kiro: Because of this moment, I feel that everything is worth it.

The affection in his eyes makes it difficult for me to breathe. The candlelight flickers, casting a red glow on every corner of the room, giving a certain charm to everything before me.

For a moment, I can’t differentiate what’s in the film and what is not. Kiro holds up a pair of wine cups linked together with a red thread, and hands one to me. 

I take the wine cup, shifting my eyes furtively to look at him. I avert them when I meet his scorching ones. 

Our arms are linked with each other, and the distance leaves me unable to avoid his eyes. His breath infiltrates my body.

Kiro and I raise our heads at the same time, downing the wine.

[Trivia: Linking arms and drinking wine (交杯酒 - “jiao jiu bei”) is a traditional Chinese wedding custom. This is because the Chinese word “wine” (酒 - “jiu”) sounds like the Chinese word “long time” (久 - “jiu”). This act symbolises how the couple will be together forever... T^T)

We agreed earlier that the wine in the cup would be swapped with water. However, I taste a slight sweetness. I look towards Kiro in shock, and he winks at me secretly.

-

[ CHAPTER FIVE ]

During a break, Kiro brings her outside to the streets and brings her to a restaurant

Kiro feeds her a leaf-shaped dessert, then finishes the remaining half of it (causing MC to blush because indirect kisses are just so SPICY 👀)

The restaurant gives them a free dessert they’ve never seen before

Kiro tries it and realises it’s extremely spicy

Kiro: Whoa huff huff, water!

He frantically reaches for the cup on the table. Before I can stop him, he downs the entire cup.

Kiro: W-why is it wine?!

MC: Here! Water!

I hurriedly stuff my cup into his hands. He gulps it down, then plops onto the table weakly.

Kiro: [groans] I’m finally back to life...

MC: Are you all right now? 

I reach out to brush his bangs to the side. Despite the cold winter, sweat droplets are on his forehead due to the earlier incident. 

Kiro: I’m fine. I actually feel like having another piece now that the spiciness is gone... why does the boss always like to experiment with these strange things?

Kiro comments that the boss’ wine is amazing, so MC takes a sip

They drift into a peaceful silence

Kiro: Actually, I have a selfish motive for shooting this short film...

Kiro’s posture is rather casual. Without realising it, he has finished half a pot of wine. The collar of his clothes has fallen apart, and there is a drunken look in his eyes.

One hand is holding onto the wine cup, and the other is supporting his chin as he looks at me. There is an undisguised joy in his eyes, and a look of intoxicated longing.

Kiro: Miss Chips, I... want you to become my wife. 

Perhaps due to his drunken state, his words are especially straightforward. It’s as though he’s saying something that's completely natural.

I’m unable to hide when faced with such straightforwardness. There’s a sudden tingling sensation in my nose, and the happiness in my heart is about to overflow.

MC: Mm!

Kiro’s eyes crinkle as he continues, his clear eyes reflecting only me. 

Kiro: Once the filming is over, we can give this short film to the audience together. Our names will be put together. Just like on a wedding invitation. It will say: Kiro and Miss Chips.

As he speaks, he fails to control the upward curl of his lips. 

MC: Why are you so happy?

Kiro: Because...

He tilts his head and thinks for two seconds, then responds with certainty. 

Kiro: People from ancient times often said that there are four great things in life: Rain after a long drought, meeting an old friend in a distant land, success in the imperial examinations, and... the wedding night.

His breath turns into a white mist, dissipating in the thin rays of light. The noises from our surroundings seem to disappear, and even the cold melts in his eyes.

Kiro: The wedding night.  

He repeats. The words on the tip of his tongue seem to be dyed in the scorching warmth of his breath.

Kiro reaches out and brings a lock of my hair to his lips, giving it a kiss. We are only separated by a small and narrow table in the middle. 

Kiro: Even though my wish has already been fulfilled, I still want more. Am I being too greedy?

I have no idea how to respond. His eyes are scorching, making my heart feel flustered. 

Reason tells me to shift backwards, but I don’t move at all. I watch as he leans closer, and wait for his breath to enter my territory like a patter of rain.

Suddenly, the corner of the table reaches its limit and flips sideways. Kiro, whose hand was on the table and is unable to react in time, falls towards me. 

MC: !

The red ribbon in my line of sight flies. Before I can react, I fall heavily onto the couch, but Kiro has subconsciously protected my head by placing his hand behind it.

Kiro: Are you hurt? 

Our clothes are tangled, and our loose hair is spread out under us. His arm is at my ear, supporting himself, and the shadow he casts has almost completely enveloped me. 

The spilt wine on the couch emits a fragrance, causing the temperature of the room to rise. 

With our close distance, our breathing quickens and becomes ragged. It’s as though we are taking up each other’s space to breathe, and yet are unwilling to move away. 

Kiro: Miss Chips, close your eyes. 

Only after a few seconds can my mind comprehend his words. But Kiro doesn’t wait. 

Under the swaying lights, everything in front of me seems to emit pure light. His eyelashes sweep across gently, like a butterfly’s wing. His lips are soaked in wine and stained with a lustre.

In the next second, my lips and tongue are claimed by Kiro’s scorching breath.

I close my eyes, wrapping my arms around his neck. 

The darkness amplifies my senses. Noises from the street and from people, and the sound of footsteps seem to be right at my ear. 

My heart beats rapidly, trying to break free from my chest. 

Kiro: Miss Chips...

In a half-lidded daze, I see Kiro’s tender gaze, the hazy lights and shadows, and the ends of our hair entangled together. 

Kiro: Having you... is really nice. 

I tighten my grip, bringing him closer into my arms. 

-

In this corner of Loveland City, on this ordinary winter night, Kiro hugs the girl in his arms, fully satisfied. 

There are still many things he has yet to tell her-

“It was fate which allowed us to meet. It was only when I met you that the ‘nucleus’ belonging to Kiro started to operate. 

It’s you who enabled me to become a star.”

-

[ CHAPTER FIVE: Extras ] 

Kiro: Miss Chips, your face is really red.

After the shoot is over, Kiro suddenly says this. After being stunned for a moment, I respond without thinking.

MC: Your face is really red too.

As Savin walks past hurriedly, he hears our conversation and asks in bewilderment:

Savin: Why are both of your faces so red?

Kiro: It’s because... [sheepish laugh]

MC: I-it’s a little hot! Maybe I stuck on too many heat packs!

Savin: You two can open the window to get some air. Be careful not to catch a cold.

Kiro opens the window, and he starts musing about how Western weddings are romantic, but Chinese weddings have a certain solemnity to them:

Kiro: You only have one life, and you only have one person. Kowtow to the heaven and the earth, drink from linked wine cups, and the rest of our lives will belong to each other.

Kiro shares his fears of not being able to convey his thoughts to the audience through the film

While MC assures him that everything will turn out well, she brushes against the Fairy Pendant

She wonders why it wasn’t featured in the film

Kiro ties it onto her waist

[Trivia: Jade pendants are believed to bring people good luck, and protect its owner’s body and spirit from harm. The colour green in jade also signifies balance, wealth, fertility, luck, harmony, and long life - qualities essential for every happy marriage.]

Kiro: Since you’ve accepted my jade pendant, you belong to me now!

MC: What...?!

Before I can even express my confusion, my hands are held tightly in his.

His fingertips are warm, as though they are about to melt the air. Time passes slowly, brewing this moment into a beautiful dream.