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orionwhispers · 4 years ago

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Bravado // Tommy Shelby Imagine

(A/N - its been a long ass time and i wanted to ease myself back into writing but this ended up being long and also super super angsty. sorry that this illness imagine came during covid idk whats going on with my imagination lol. love you guys SO much thank you for always being there. reblogs, comments and likes mean everything to me.)

trigger warnings - LOTS of angst. fluff. implied smut. my hc that tommy has a fear of illness, bad descriptions of hospitals.

He knew something wasn’t right the minute his car pulled into the driveway and you weren’t waiting for him under the great concrete arch, with that smile on your face that made his knees buckle and heart race like he was a love struck teenager.

You were always there as soon as he came home. Barefoot in a broderie dress in the summer with tousled hair and baby pink toenails. Wrapped in a hand knit blanket with fire flushed cheeks and woollen socks in the winter - even running across the gravel and into his arms in the middle of a storm, the ice cold rain whipping across both of your faces as you kissed under the light of the moon.

No matter how shit his day or week or month was, no matter what stained his hands or darkened his heart, no matter what lay heavy and hard deep in his gut, seeing you made everything vanish in the night air like wisps of smoke. You made everything worth it.

He refused to give into fear, he wasn’t that kind of man, so he swallowed all of the nagging thoughts and apprehensions as he came up to the dark foggy windows and the iron cast door. It felt strange turning his key in the lock without the weight of you in his arms or the sticky peach kisses you left down his jaw and neck, the smell of the vanilla in your hair and lavender on your skin.

The second thing that sent a jolt of white hot electricity down his spine was Mary, watching him anxiously and wringing her hands in the hallway. Usually, she was calm and collected, taking his jacket and leather travel bag with her signature placid smile and gentle fingers. Usually she would return to the kitchen and finish up whatever she was making - a hearty roast lamb with rosemary and garlic and glazed potatoes or a pheasant pie with honeyed carrots, always followed by a three layer chocolate ganache cake that was so thick and rich you practically had to saw through the sponge. She would always have dinner piping hot and dripping with gravy by the time the two of you returned downstairs, no matter how many hours it took for you to get... reacquainted.

Now she looked sheepish and pale, her skin almost translucent under the syrupy yellow lights. There was something about the way she stood, as still as a wraith, that made his blood run cold.

“Mary. Where is she?”

“Mr Shelby, I - ” Her voice was strained and hesitant, like a slowly fraying rope.

“Where is my wife?”

She moved forward, creases forming around her eyes. “We tried ringing you in Liverpool but the hotel said that you had already left, so we...”

“You rang me? Why? What’s happened?” He couldn’t hold back the desperation in his voice, and it lingered and festered around them both like a poisonous gas.

“Mrs Shelby came down with something a few days ago, we thought that it was just a common cold but unfortunately she seems to be getting worse.”

He tore upstairs before he could even think, his shoes leaving perfect muddy footprints on the cream carpet. He almost slipped at the top, and he lurched forward, his hands reaching out and holding onto the portrait hanging above the stairs for stability.

It was the oil of the two of you. A soft, personal picture that revealed more than he ever possibly could. The love in your gazes, the hint of a soft, drunk smile on the dangerous gangsters face as you leaned into him, melting into him like butter, him holding onto you as though he couldn’t bear to let you go. It was his favourite photo, one that always washed a sense of calmness over him, a reminder of the woman that he loved and the way he felt around you. But now he felt as if was riding out a terrible storm.

He lived his life with no fear, he was capable and practical and used to the sound of bullets and the copper sweet smell of blood. There was really only one thing, one terrible thing that he couldn’t control, and that was what drove him crazy.

Sickness.

It gnawed at his insides like a rabid dog, clawed under his skin and settled behind his ribs. Losing someone he loved was like ripping out a piece of his heart straight from his chest, and he knew better than anyone what it was like to lose somebody to a violent, quick death - the pull of a trigger or the smack of a fist. At least in those moments he could lock them away in his mind, he could leap in front of a bullet or crack the neck of any man who dared to get too close to you, but there was almost nothing he could do to stop sickness, and the devastation it caused.

When you first met him it had been a surprise, almost amusing, that this powerful God of a man had these small little quirks. His house was always sparkling clean and smelling of Lysol, his fruit bowls were filled with citrus fruits and round, plump blueberries. He always made sure you were wrapped up warm in the winter, always placing his coat around your shoulders and bringing an extra pair of gloves in case you forgot yours. It was adorable, the way he took care of you,

It wasn’t till a little bit later when you learnt of those he had lost. His mother and his childhood sweetheart taken away from him much too soon. It broke your heart when he told you late one night of the sallow tint of their skin and the way he could almost see them vanishing from earth, the way that illness had moulded and changed those he loved the most.

You understood.

Your best friends older sister had died of tuberculosis when you were young. The elderly woman across the street from your first flat had passed away from a bout of horrendous smallpox. Your brother lost his first child to pneumonia. Times were changing but the fear of disease was ever present. Medicine was improving and so was knowledge, but still there remained a huge, dark cloud of what could happen, one that always hung around your husbands head.

——————————————-

All Tommy could think was the worst as he ran through the landing. His heart was in his ears and his bones felt loose, like the sweet liquorice the two of you would share at the pictures. He came to a stop by the bedroom door, tentatively pressing his palm onto the wood and ever so slightly pushing it open, listening to the gentle creak it made.

The room was warm. The lace curtains were pulled shut, and your favourite lavender candles were flickering on your vanity, casting syrupy shadows against the wall. He exhaled loudly as he saw you, bundled up under a mountain of satin sheets and hand crocheted blankets, your hair splayed across the pillows.

He moved to your bedside, pretending not to notice the large, untouched jug of water and the tissue box next to you, hoping and silently praying that you weren’t sick - just asleep and waiting for him, ready to wrap your arms around his neck.

You were silent, your lips parting every so often as you breathed, your chest rising and falling. He reached out gently, as though he was picking up shards of glass, and brushed his fingers against your cheek. Your forehead was beading with sweat, your cheeks flushed, and yet your skin was ice cold to the touch. He recoiled quickly, his heart dropping like a weight into his gut, and he inhaled a shaky, deep breath.

He saw something curled up beside your hands, a fluffy white cloud with sparkling emerald green eyes trained on him. Despite everything, he smiled. He thought of your birthday - of strawberry cheesecake and champagne, and surprising you with a ribbon wrapped little kitten as you woke up. He thought of that day often. How you smiled and leapt onto him with tears in your eyes, his whole world blissfully quiet as he spent the day in bed with you and your new best friend.

He would have preferred a big dog, one with sharp teeth and a menacing gaze to ward of visitors whilst he was away. But you were drawn to the tiny, malnourished runt of the litter who was scared of his own shadow. A kitten no bigger than the size of his clenched fist. A little white hairball who only ate and drank from fine pink saucers. A cat that had a very frustrating habit of crawling in the bedroom right as Tommy’s hand was up your skirt and his lips on the sweet spot of your neck, the tiny thing mewling and crying until you picked him up and nuzzled him into your chest.

He was a horse lover through and through, and never saw himself having time for any other pets. But in the summer when you saw the litter from one of John’s barn cats and fell in love with the sweet baby who mewled and cried and crawled right into your lap - he knew that he would give you anything and everything you wanted.

Including a cat who refused to accept that Tommy was the man of the house.

“Hello, boy.” He said, leaning over to scratch Comet under the chin, using a voice he only reserved for the two of you. “Have you been looking after my girl whilst I’ve been gone?”The cat meowed loudly in reply, pressing his head into Tommy’s palm but not moving from his spot beside you.

Tommy suddenly felt you shift under him and his heart lurched into his throat. He turned to face you, cupping the side of your clammy face as your eyelids fluttered open, blinking under the candlelight. A rush of red hot heat built up in his belly as you registered him, that angelic smile growing on your face, your tired eyes glimmering with recognition of the man you loved.

“Tommy?”

“Hi, Princess.”

You smiled sadly. “You’ve been gone for weeks - I missed you.”

He felt his brows crease as he rubbed along your jawline softly, trying to stop you from falling back asleep. He felt panic in his throat as sour as vomit, and he tried to bite back the nagging feeling that something was very wrong.

“No, sweetheart, I’m early. It’s only Thursday. I left on Monday.”

“Oh.” You said softly, your voice as gentle as the breeze rustling through the trees outside. “Well let me welcome you back properly - let me make you a lemon drizzle or a...” You lifted your head from the pillow and shuffled under your blanket, but he pressed his hands against your shoulder and held you down.

“No. You’re staying right here.”

“But - ”

“No.”

“Hmm. Don’t leave me, Tommy.”

“Never.” He said, his tone firm and cast like stone. He stroked your hair softly as your breathing slowed, but it didn’t nothing to quell the hard thump of his heart in his chest.

——————————-

Tommy left the room as quietly as he could after you had fallen asleep in his arms. He hadn’t wanted to move, not when you were pressed against his chest, looking ethereal but vacant, sweat beading under your brow and your face lacking colour. He wanted to stay with you, curled up by his side, his fingers laced through yours, the sound of your heart thumping in his ears.

But he was a man of action, and seeing you there - your lips cracked and dry, shudders passing through your body and goosebumps raised over your skin - he couldn’t fight the fiery urge to do everything in his power to make you feel alright again.

He found Mary waiting outside the door, chewing on the skin of her lips and swaying on the balls of her feet in anticipation. He grabbed her by the arm, harder than he meant to and something he would apologise for later, and pulled her downstairs, determined to let you rest whilst he got some answers. As soon as they reached the drawing room he spun her around, clenching his jaw and pointing a finger at the anxious maid.

“Where the fuck is the doctor? Why isn’t he here?”

“Mr Shelby.” She said, stepping forward calmly. “We phoned Doctor Moore and he came on Tuesday to see her.”

“Tuesday?” He seethed. “My wife has been ill since Tuesday and no one called me?”

Mary raised her hands in defeat, making it clear that the decision wasn’t hers to make. “He said it was nothing of concern . He gave her some antibiotics and told her to rest. She asked us herself not to call you, she knows how you.. worry.”

He ignored her sugar coated attempt to quell his anger, but if anything it made his vision darken. “When it’s my wife, It is always my concern.”

“Mr Shelby, we were just doing what we were told. As soon as we noticed she wasn’t getting better we phoned the surgery again, but Doctor Thomas was out for the day and said he didn’t think it was necessary to come round again, so we -”

“I don’t give a fuck. My wife is the number one priority. Ring every doctor in England if you have to, get somebody out here now to see my wife.”

He stormed away, anger pulsating through his veins, but he stopped suddenly, and threw out over his shoulder:

“And call Doctor Moore’s ’office. Tell him to expect a visit from the blinders soon.”

———————————————————

Once, when you were first dating, you found Tommy at the door to your flat at midnight, with scraped knuckles and blood dripping from his nose. You let him in, cleaned him up and sat with him in the bath until his skin was clear and his breathing was even. He knew that night, as you were pressed against his chest and his lips were pressed to your scalp that he was truly, madly and completely in love with you.

He remembered waking up the next morning, love drunk and blissful, and finding the bed beside him empty. He found you in the kitchen, wincing slightly and pressing a hot water bottle to your belly as you buttered a few pieces of toast. He rushed to your side with eyes as wide as saucers, concern lacing the features that were usually ice cold and hard as stone. You were completely baffled as he held you at arms length, his bright cerulean eyes trailing up and down your body for any signs of injury he might have missed. You were bewildered at the sight of the powerful man practically on his knees as he made sure you were alright, and you bit back a giggle as his warm palms spread over your abdomen.

“What is it? Whats wrong?”

“Tommy. Sweetheart.” You said softly, bringing his gaze level to yours. “It’s just - you know - that time of the month.”

He brushed off your embarrassment and ran his fingers through your hair, pressing a uncharacteristically gentle kiss to your forehead, sending a swarm of butterflies around the pain in your stomach.

“Do you need anything?” He asked, half ready to run down to the corner shop and buy any amount of painkillers or chocolate bars or your favourite lavender tea that you might need; not caring who saw the seemingly terrifying gang leader in the street with an armful of strawberry laces and salt water fudges.

You smiled like the summer sun and he melted, pulling you close as you whispered in the shell of his ear that you only needed him, and that was all you ever needed.

That was the first time you fully saw the extent of Tommy’s fear, but it definitely wasn’t the last. He knew he wanted you forever and always, and it took only six months of neck kisses and pillow talk, red hot jealousy and possessive hands across your skin and dancing in the rain and falling asleep under the pale yellow moon for him to put a ring on your finger. You were both consumed by your love, as though it was the only thing that mattered, it was insatiable and powerful - the wonderful mix of the devil and his sweet little angel.

And with that, came the good and the bad.

Like when you got food poisoning after Arthur cooked you a Sunday lunch to cheer you up whilst Tommy was gone. He came home to you retching over the toilet bowl with Mary holding back your hair, and swore that he would kill his brother with his own hands. Or when you slipped on ice and broke your arm while out with friends in London, and Tommy went ballistic and tried to ban you from ever leaving the house. It was just in his nature, how he always made sure you walked on the side furthest from the road, kept an arm slung around you whenever you were together, kept his eyes alert and vigilant no matter where you were - always looking out for his girl.

But he had never been like this.

———————————————————-

You were falling in and out of sleep. Waking up drowsy and heavy headed, squinting under bright lights, an ache in your skull and a burning in your throat. Every so often you felt a pinch in your upper arm, a squeeze on your palm, a kiss on your forehead - but you always drifted back into unconsciousness.

You weren’t sure how much time had passed when you woke up. The room was dark and you could hear the wind howling and whipping rain across the windows. You felt all too hot and all too cold at the same time, and the bed was damp with sweat. You struggled and tried to sit up, your head swaying and feeling as heavy as one of Tommy’s marble statues; as if you had been carved up and moulded. You could hear voices out in the hall, and unsteadily got to your feet, moving towards the noises.

“Pneumonia?” You heard through the thick wooden door, instantly recognising your husbands voice. “That’s impossible.”

“Sir...”

“Fucking. Impossible.” You knew his teeth were clenched.

The other man cleared his throat.“I know that it’s hard to hear, Mr Shelby, but your wife is very sick.”

“Just...” You felt your heart flutter and clench in your chest as the sound of his broken words, could practically feel his desperation and you wanted nothing more than to hold him. “Just tell me how to make her better.”

The second man spoke again, his voice softening and lowering, something you knew Tommy would hate. “Mr Shelby, the first round of antibiotics didn’t work and that means that it’s time for something stronger. Usually I would suggest the Birmingham hospital but I don’t think it’s equipped for...” He paused, trying to think over his words carefully. He wanted to convey the severity of the situation but also didn’t want to risk getting a bullet in his head from your very protective husband. “...This kind of reaction. I recommend we send her down to London for extra testing.”

“London? That’ll take two fucking hours. How the fuck can you recommend letting my wife travel that far? Are you out of your fucking mind?”

“I’m my opinion this is the wisest choice to make, but unfortunately that could mean your wife might get worse before she gets better.”

“Worse than she already is? That’s not an option.”

The man you assumed was the doctor was insistent, trying his best to portray the severity of the situation but failing as your hardheaded husband had already come to a decision.

“I’ll look after her here. She’s safest with me.”

Once Tommy had spoken that was the final result, and the doctor slinked away into the darkness and shook his head. You remained peering from behind the door, your tongue between your teeth and your heart hammering.

Tommy took one look at you and frowned, scooping you in his arms like a baby despite your protests. He ignored you, acting playfully and cheerful but you could feel his heated skin and the see flare of his nostrils. You wanted to help him but didn’t know how, and let him tuck you under the covers once again. He kissed your crown and stroked your hair and you wanted to speak but no words would leave your mouth.

“You stay there this time. You know I have no problem with tying you to the bed.”

You rolled your eyes as he left, and his clenched fists and tightened shoulders told you all you needed to know.

————————————————-

Comet watched from his spot beside you as Tommy wrestled with the fire. He had noticed you shivering despite your high temperature, and bundled you up in blankets whilst sparking matches beside the fireplace. There were raindrops across his shoulders, evidence that he had been outside and to the log store right at the end of the property - a job that had always been for the Groundskeeper. Your precious cat nudged the tips of your fingers as you sighed and watched your husband throw kindling onto the coal, a deep unease settling over your gut.

“Tommy, my love, I’m fine.” It wasn’t exactly true but you felt he needed to hear it. But you could practically see your words wash over him and evaporate like ocean spray.

He was shaking a metal tin in his palm as he worked, and you groaned and let your head hit the pillow as he pulled out two round chalky tablets. You winced as he placed them beside your glass, your mouth already tasting like the sour talc medicine you had come to loathe. He raised his eyebrows and shot you a look that told you he wasn’t far off plugging your nose with his fingers to force you to swallow, and you childishly stuck up two fingers as you took them.

Your stomach rumbled with nausea and you bit back the bile in your throat as you settled into the pillows. You watched your husband as he pulled off his crisp white shirt, revealing his taut tan stomach and the deep ink tattoos that you loved to trace with your fingertips and your lips. There was something about him standing there, with those damn cerulean eyes and hidden muscles, that boyish hair and slender fingers that you wanted desperately around your throat, that made a million tiny fireworks spark inside of you.

But instead you pushed him away from you despite your body wanting nothing but him wrapped all around you. “Don’t get too close. I might have something contagious. I can’t have you getting sick.”

He ignored you, smiling inwardly at the way you always put others before yourself. It was one of the million reasons he had fallen for you. You were sweating out a high fever and shivering in pain, and yet you always thought of him first. He pressed his lips to your temple and pulled you closer, knowing that skin to skin was a way to bring down a fever - even if it meant he had to restrain himself from tugging off your pretty little white nightgown and whatever frilly things you had on underneath.

“I’m not going anywhere. Fuck it if I catch anything.”

“That’s easy for you to say. I’m the one who will have to dote on you hand and foot, you big baby.” You teased, pressing yourself into him playfully, finally giving in.

He held you like a child, trying to hard to soften despite the way you felt underneath him. Everything on him was running a mile a minute, and he couldn’t help but want to try everything and everything to make you feel better. His hand was pressed against your temple to always try and measure your fever, his other palm across your chest to try and count your heart rate.

He could hear Mary treading across the landing carpet but he ignored his anxious maid, instead letting himself be completely consumed by the only thing that mattered - you.

This was something he had to do by himself. He was the only one who could care for you he reminded himself. And he let the words tumble over and over in his skull until they were all he could hear.

—————————————————————-

You had been asleep for a long time.

Every hour, after pacing the length of the hall and sanitising his hands and wiping the beads of sweat above your brow and above your breasts he woke you up and held a cool glass to your lips. You mumbled and moaned and pushed him away but he kept his fingers across your wrist - harsher than he ever had before - and kept you as close to him as possible.

He couldn’t remember the last time he had cooked. Perhaps it was last valentines when the two of you had camped out under the stars, drinking icy white wine and sharing stolen, day drunk kisses. That night he had roasted a chicken over the fire and it had burnt to a crisp as the two of you rolled around the grass, his head buried in your neck as you giggled at the poultry going up in flames.

He was trying now though, easy, plain substantial meals that wouldn’t upset your stomach. Boiled egg and dippy soldiers. Crackers with smooth cheese. Bubbly water and ginger biscuits. Each time he went upstairs you pushed him away, your whole body shuddering and almost retching, and he felt like smashing the plates against the wall at his defeat.

It had been almost thirty six hours since he had come home and it had been almost as long since you had eaten something, and his heart thundered and shattered in his chest when he found you gasping and wheezing over the toilet bowl when you had taken a bite of toast to calm him. He rarely left you alone, only for a few minutes to put the still full dishes in the sink, to ring Lizzie and tell her that he wouldn’t be coming for reasons that he refused to disclose, to smoke a cigarette under the grey stone archway, his shaking hands and bitten fingernails barely visible through the sleepy rolling fog.

He had grabbed handfuls of papers and the brass ink pen you had got him for your anniversary and broke his own rule - bringing work into your bedroom. It had always been a sacred space. For candlelight and soft laughter, aching hands and heart shaped bruises, a sanctuary for him to breathe and to love and to be loved fully in return. But he was afraid if he didn’t have a distraction, he might just completely lose it, and he had to be there for you.

So he sat squinting in his glasses, the room almost completely dark save for a few candles because of the migraines that had started to spread throughout your skull, and let himself be drawn into the mess of squiggly lines and numbers that suddenly didn’t add up, with you still centre stage in his peripheral.

After about forty minutes of rereading the same sentence a dozen times to try and make some sense of it, he heard your voice, like a small crack spreading across a sheet of ice, coming from the bed.

“Tom?” You sounded so weak, he practically flipped your cream vanity as he got to his feet and darted towards you. “I don’t feel well.”

He lifted you as you reached your arms up at him like a child. He almost gasped at the sweat pouring from your body but didn’t want to scare you, and instead held your shaking, shivering body against his own. How could you be so hot, yet so cold at the same time? Your skin was prickled with goosebumps yet you were burning with a fever, and for the first time in a long time, he had no fucking idea what to do.

He left you propped up against the headboard and he entered the bathroom. He ran over to the claw foot tub you loved, twisting the faucet and trying to find the perfect medium between boiling hot and freezing cold. He didn’t want to overwhelm you, just try and soothe your raging fever, and he ignored the shelves of expensive bath oils and scented soaps that you coveted, instead opting for a handful of something meant to ease tension - praying to whoever was listening that it would help you somehow.

There was a brutal, awful moment as he lifted you from the bed, limp as a rag doll, where he imagined what would happen if your heart were to stop. He couldn’t comprehend what it would be like to miss the weight of you in his arms, the smell of your skin, the feeling of your lips against him, the shovels stopping and fading into nothing. It hit him square in the chest, as merciless as a bullet, and he had to lean against the doorframe to stop the two of you from plummeting to the ground.

He undressed himself first. Tugging his white shirt off, sliding off his slacks and his underwear, keeping you as close to his chest as he could. Then he pulled your nightgown up and over your head. He gathered your hair and secured it up with a claw clip so that it was away from your face, the heat radiating off your neck as fierce as the fire now burnt down to ash in the bedroom.

He lowered the two of you into the bath, sinking down beneath the eucalyptus smelling lukewarm water, letting it wash over you both. Your teeth were chattering and you were barely awake. He gathered handfuls of water, letting it drip over your shoulders and pulse points, grabbing a washcloth and running it over your raised skin, hating how you barely registered his touch. As he scrubbed over your collarbones and up to your face he saw your lips had turned to an awful, silvery blue, as vibrant as a fresh bruise. He hissed and tugged on the plug, now determined to get you wrapped up in a fresh towel and tucked back into bed.

You were soft and placid and he helped you out, lacking the usual fire that he adored. Your eyes were glassy and missing their vibrance, like the vanishing spark of a lighter - and he felt miles and miles of invisible distance between the two of you. You were unsteady on your feet and he used his body to prop you up as he warmed your arms with a fluffy white towel. You suddenly stopped, lifting your hand to your mouth as you started to cough - a horrible, dry, gasping cough.

He noticed it almost immediately. His eyes darting to the splatter of red against the white, a smudge of crimson that was as loud and commanding as a siren, a warning signal that something was definitely not right. A bead of scarlet that would linger long behind his closed eyelids.

He managed to get you back into bed, remaining calm as he stroked your hair and kissed your temple. He tucked you under the duvet and waited for your breathing to even before he ran downstairs, his heart thumping in his ears as he practically ripped the phone off of the wall.

“Pol? Fuck. I think - I think I need help.”

—————————————————————-

The room smelt like bleach and metal. Unfamiliar and clinical. There was something hard on your chest and covering your mouth, it tasted like wet pennies and was as heavy as a hand over your throat, but for the first time in days you could finally breathe. You tried to sit up, but there was a needle in your chest, a gown you didn’t recognise cut straight down the middle to accommodate it. You struggled and lifted the thin bedsheet above your shivering torso, trying to look around the cold room.

“Careful!”

It was Polly, dressed immaculately despite her surroundings. She reached out and placed a manicured hand across yours, and you smiled at the woman who had always been a calming influence when you had joined the circus of a family. There was concern in her eyes, rimmed with black eyeliner and lifted lashes but still swimming deep around her pupils. That made you frown, and you moved as much as you could to face her.

“What happened?”

She ran her tongue over her teeth, choosing her words. “You gave us quite a fright, love.”

“I did?” Your memories of the past few days were much like a fever dream, blurry and distorted snapshots were all you could really remember.

“Your pneumonia got worse. A lot worse.” She paused, looking over to the door and you followed her gaze. “They found fluid in your lungs.”

“So...” You started, gesturing to the needle in your abdomen and the breathing apparatus around your head.

She nodded. “Yes. You were in surgery. It was touch and go for a little bit.”

“Really?” You were bewildered. You couldn’t remember anything, let alone having major surgery. You looked her straight in the eye, asking her the questions that had been on the tip of your tongue since you had woken up. “Where is he? Where’s Tommy?”

“He’s outside.” She clicked her tongue, reaching deep into her purse and pulling out some hand cream, gently rubbing your dry hands like she was your mother. You leant into her touch despite all of your questions.

“What? Why?”

“I think he blames himself. God knows what goes on in that mans head. All I really know is he was bloody terrified.” She paused, looking over in the distance. “I’ve never seen him so scared, not even on his wedding day.” She smiled sadly, trying to lighten the mood, but it soon faded. “He didn’t leave your side the whole time you were asleep.”

Your heart thumped in your chest, a soft aching that you knew all too well. “I want to see him.”

“I know you do. But right now...” She stopped right as a handful of nurses entered, clad in long blue dresses with white aprons, hair tied back and smelling of strong soap and disinfectant. You lost Polly in the bustle as one spoke softly to you before tugging on the needle right beside your ribs, your eyes just catching hers as she left, a promise to see you soon on her lips.

It wasn’t her you saw next, but Tommy.

The nurses had cleaned you up with wet flannels and bowls of warm soapy water. Your hair had been braided and your face washed, and walked you arm in arm over to the bathroom so you could relieve yourself. A skittish doctor followed after, his eyes darting across you and his touch gentle as he changed your dressings and took your blood - obviously under strict instructions from your husband, and despite everything, you smiled.

You were sat listening to the clock tick. A romance novel you had been given was dangling dangerously close to the end of the bed, but you were too tired to focus on it. You heard the door squeal softly, and the sound of familiar footsteps across the tiling, each small thud sending shockwaves across your spine.

“Tommy.”

He looked tired. Exhausted rather, as though he had been awake all the hours that you had been asleep. His eyes were bloodshot and his skin was sallow and bruised. His clean shaven face was dark with stubble and his hair was ruffled and unwashed. You longed to reach out to him and cradle him against you, but he stood in the doorway, lingering like a ghost.

“Tommy?” You repeated, your voice almost a whisper, breaking his already shattered heart once again.

“How are you feeling, my love?”

You smiled softly, like spun sugar and sweet honey. No hospital bed or itchy gown could dull your infectious light. “Better now.”

He approached you almost cautiously. He settled down on the hard chair beside your bed and stroked a line down from your temple to your lips, his touch setting you alight like an electrical storm. There was a sadness in his eyes that reminded you of how he got when things were bad, and you willed him to come back to you. His touch was tentative and he inhaled shakily as you cupped his hand with yours, pressing a tender kiss to the inside of his palm.

“Don’t scare me like that. Ever.” He was stern, as though hoping his words would make it true. “I mean it.” He kept his gaze on your pretty face, trying his best not to stare at the harsh bruising on your delicate flesh or the sickly tone of your skin.

“Tommy I’m going to get sick, even you can’t stop that.” You teased gently.

“I can bloody well try.” His hands cradled your face, pulling you into him and kissing you fiercely, still mindful of the wires and tubes taped to your body. There was something about the tenderness and deep longing in the kiss that when mixed with your total exhaustion and love for your husband prompted tears to start falling from your eyes. You sniffled as he pulled away, concern dripping from his beautiful features, his powerful mind wanting to do everything and anything to stop your hurting.

“Hey, hey.” He said, running his calloused fingertips under your eyes and wiping your tears away. You leant into his touch and he kissed your temple, squeezing you even tighter into him. “You know I hate it when you cry.” He toyed with your hair and winked playfully. “Besides, all you need to focus on is getting better. You’re going to have to take care of me when we get home, this week has given me a fucking stroke.”

You rolled your eyes, kissing the inside of his wrist. “You’re a idiot, Thomas Shelby.” You blinked at the clock looming above you both, wanting to stay in your blissful bubble but also knowing that Aunt Pol would probably be in the vicinity harassing a poor nurse over your results. “You should go and find Polly, let her know that everything’s alright.”

He shook his head and nuzzled his nose across yours, an act so innocent that your heart dipped and swooped in your chest. “Later.” He said, breathless and consumed by you. Everything had been too much. Almost losing you had been harrowing, it had punctured him completely and he just needed to feel his girl safe and warm around him. He needed to know that you weren’t found anywhere.

“I just want to stay here for a while. Just me and you.”

You grinned. “Always.”

#tommy shelby oneshot #tommy shelby imagine #peaky blinders oneshot #tommy shelby x reader #thomas shelby imagine #thomas shelby oneshot

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freckled-words · 4 years ago

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Count The Teeth - Part Eleven

I am just. I don’t even know? I swear I remember posting this final chapter last year with the whole series, I swear I did, but as far as my tumblr account can tell, it doesn’t exist.....I hate tumblr sometimes, I really do. So if this is already in existence, then let’s just roll with this being an odd duplicate.

I’m not going to post all the prior links here, as I’m setting up another post that will have EVERYTHING on it, including the original one shot ‘Smoke and Blood.’

I can’t even remember if this was edited. Regardless, enjoy this random end chapter XD

It had been the oddest thing when you left NateMare licking his wounds.

You’d gone to the driveway and found a taxi waiting for you. The driver said the fare had been taken care of and he was to take you wherever you wanted. When you asked him who had covered the tab, he said a well spoken gentleman had done so.

Seeing your disheveled appearance in pajamas, the taxi driver became curious as to why you were there.

You went with an elaborate story. It was your birthday, and your asshole brother had kidnapped you and brought you here for a spooky adventure. You’d gotten fed up with his childish antics and had decided to leave. You added that it was likely your brother’s friend that had paid the taxi driver.

When you got home, you took a long, luxurious, hot shower and collapsed into bed. Your exhaustion was deeper than you’d thought, leading you to sleeping for a straight 12 hours.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

4 months later…

It had taken him a month, but Mercer had kept his word. He’d found each of his victims that had been put into a coma, and brought them out of it. When questioned about what had happened to send them into the coma, they all had the same story. They’d been out at night, and they came across a man looking for directions. After they sent him on his way, they’d become dizzy and passed out.

Authorities believed that the victims had been distracted by the man asking for directions, then jumped by a second person that knocked them out and then drained them for blood. Reddit was running rampant with theories about a team collecting blood for the black market.

You supposed it was better than them getting freaked out about a rampaging vampire. The last thing the city needed were civilians taking up guns, pitch forks, torches, and stakes to go after people that were innocent.

In the following months, you remained on alert. NateMare’s promise of retribution had left a fairly strong impression. Armed with the knowledge of something to use against him, you’d set up a collection of weapons throughout the apartment.

In the kitchen, you had a bucket of blessed water by the sink. In the living room, you had a Super Soaker loaded with the stuff and in your bedroom, you had a spray bottle at the ready. You knew it would annoy and delay him at best, but at least it was better than just standing around and letting him curse you again.

You were so intent on watching for hints of a smoke cloud, you didn’t think to watch for any bats.

Which was how Mercer caught you off guard.

You’d spent the day out with one of your friends, and had lost track of time. It was dark when you made the walk home. The night was overcast and the wind was much colder as winter was settling in.

Despite your thick jacket, you still felt the chill. Your hands were stuffed into your pockets and your shoulders were hunched up to your ears. Your attention darted between the people walking towards you on the sidewalk and the people that were walking parallel to you across the street. Leaving no room to focus on your surroundings behind you.

An arm went around your shoulders, pulling you in against a tall frame. Startled you made a noise that was barely a word and some kind of squeak.

A familiar voice chuckled, making the hair on the back of your neck stand on end. You didn’t dare look up, not wanting to get caught by his eyes.

“What are you doing here Mercer?”

Mercer’s arm squeezed a little tighter, guiding you forward to keep walking.

He was greatly enjoying himself. You could tell from his voice as he replied, “Well hello to you too. Can’t a friend just come around for a visit now and then?”

“We’re not friends.”

“Oh, you wound me.” He lamented, without an ounce of actual dismay.

“Did you come here to get some payback for soaking you?” It was the first thing that came to mind, and you were kicking yourself for not bringing your tiny spray bottle with you when leaving earlier.

You caught sight of Mercer’s hand as he waved that thought off, “Not at all. I’ve gotten over that little trifle. As I said, I’m just here on a friendly visit.”

“At what point between you and NateMare trying to kill each other, did you and I become friends?” You could see your apartment building up ahead, and at this point, you were just utterly perplexed as to what was happening with Mercer right now.

He ignored your question, “I had some time to think while I went from hospital to hospital, and I’ve come up with a fun idea. One that I’m sure you’ll see the benefits of.”

You knew it was stupid, you could hear yourself calling it stupid, but when you both stopped in front of your building, you looked up.

The bugger was genuinely amused, smiling brightly and in all innocence. There was no glow to his eyes and you didn’t feel any part of you go numb. He was playing nice. For now.

You shrugged off his arm and moved around to stand in front of him, “And what idea is this?”

“Well, as we’re both aware, my dear, baby brother is all in a huff about you letting me go. The set of lungs on that boy, I swear. My ears were throbbing for an hour after his hollering.”

You winced, but you weren’t surprised Mercer had caught that.

“I was thinking to myself about how much trouble you and he were, going around and messing about in my handiwork. Good job on digging up the family history by the way. Anyways, I thought I should probably keep tabs on my brother, make sure he doesn’t come barging in on me at some point unexpectedly. The only problem is that I’m terrible at tracking idiots.”

You shuffled on the spot, getting colder by the minute. Mercer was clearly intent on dragging this out, and you doubted he’d just let you walk away. But you had no intention of inviting him inside.

“So I came to the only logical conclusion: You! I knew he was bound to come knocking on your door at some point and figured I’d keep watch. I tell you, watching a mortal for a month is boring. Which is why we’re having this chat. Much more engaging than just hovering about bored out of my mind.”

Your blood pressure rose at his declaration of stalking you for the past month. You thought you’d felt eyes on you, and it made you twice as jumpy. Knowing it was this nuisance didn’t make you feel any easier.

Processing everything he was saying all together, you just about threw your hands up.

It was the same damned position you’d been in 5 months before, only now it was reversed!

“Clearly you two are related.” You grouched stomping your feet. The cold was seeping through your boots and socks, making your feet ache.

“I am not helping you find NateMare. You are not hanging around here to wait for him to show up! And I’m not getting involved with either of you again!” You didn’t care if the neighbors heard, for all they’d understand, it sounded like a romantic issue.

You spun on your heel and stomped up to your apartment door.

Just as you put the key into the lock, a decent sized bat flew around you and clung onto your chest. You looked back over your shoulder and saw no sign of Mercer. Glaring down at the bat, you hissed, “You are not coming inside, let go and go away.”

The bat merely wiggled its ears, and much to your chagrin, he nuzzled against your coat. Even worse, it was adorable.

You heard people, more tenants that belonged to your building, coming up behind you.

Suppressing a frustrated scream you unlocked the door, and kept your body turned away from the approaching people.

You wrapped your arms around yourself, concealing Mercer as best you could, and made a beeline for the staircase.

Huffing up the stairs you swore at him, “You’re in so much trouble. I have a bucket filled with holy water in my kitchen and it has your name all over it buddy.”

The impudent bastard gave a tiny squeak. One that conveyed no distress in the slightest.

A glance down and there was no mistaking a smug smile, even on a bat.

You didn’t stop until you were inside your apartment, at which time you were breathless and sweaty under your coat.

“You make one damn comment about me being out of shape, and I will seriously drown you.”

“I’d very much like to see you try.”

You’d been locking your door, putting your back to the living room.

It hadn’t been Mercer that had replied.

Stiffly, you hit the light switch next to the door frame and peeked over your shoulder.

NateMare lounged back on your couch. His body was relaxed, but his expression was one that read murder.

The sound of dripping drew your eye to the kitchen. Your bucket of holy water was on the floor, along with a puddle of water and some that was dripping off the sink's cabinet doors.

“NateMare-”

“Shut it.”

He got to his feet and stalked towards you, “You should consider yourself very lucky. Had I gone after you that same day, I would have happily ripped your esophagus out of your throat.”

You swallowed thickly.

“But I took some time to calm down, recover, and think about it. I changed my mind.”

He stepped closer, leaving two steps of distance between you, “I’ve come to realize that I enjoy having a minion doing my bidding. Unlike some other… people… I could name, I don’t have a host popping out brothers every damn holiday. Plus, you’re already semi-trained.”

He smirked and held up a hand. Smoke gathered in his palm, and formed a thick section of chains.

“Hell. To. The. No.”

You’d done this song and dance and you were not doing it again.

Turning to face him, you pried Mercer from your chest and shoved him into NateMare, “Here, talk to your brother. Take it outside!”

Stunned, NateMare had dropped the smoke chain and grabbed Mercer on reflex.

Unprepared, Mercer didn’t have a chance to resist being shoved into NateMare’s hands.

The two stayed frozen and dumbstruck to the spot while you threw off your coat and went to get your mop and bucket.

There was another second of silence until you heard, “WHAT THE FUCK?!”

There was enraged squeaking, a bit of scuffling, the sound of a grunt, and then silence.

When you returned to the kitchen, you found the two were gone, and your balcony door wide open.

You were in the clear. For now.

#I'm honestly so proud of this #Mercer Battle #NateMare Battle #NateMare #Reader insert #I hate tumblr #deleting my shit #fanfiction #Count The Teeth #Part 11 #natewantstobattle

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psyched2b · 6 years ago

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Late Night Secrets (Steve Rogers x Reader)

Here’s my last minute submissions for @shitty-imagines-95‘s “Being that Thing that Goes Bump in the Night Writing Challenge”

As always, feedback is always appreciated and welcomed!

Also, huge shoutout to @mermaidxatxheart and @shreddedparchment for all of your help in making this what it is. Definitely check them both out as they are amazing writers!

Warnings: Mentions of blood, mild panic attacks

Steve was pacing, back and forth, back and forth, in front of your house at 1:37 am. He didn’t care that he may look suspicious to your neighbors, too lost in his own thoughts.

The cool fall air was flirting with winter, just above freezing, frost coating every surface outside, sidewalks slick.

But Steve didn’t notice.

He had just gotten back from a mission that had taken its mental toll on him. Steve has seen countless indescribable horrors in his life and he didn’t think there was much that could shock him.

This last mission proved otherwise.

He was thankful that the kid, Peter, wasn’t able to go. This would have changed the ever happy kid's outlook on life, leaving deep scars.

“I want to bleach my mind,” Peter would say.

The thought brought a ghost of a smile over Steve’s lips.

He had been fighting with himself. He really wanted to see you. It had already been three weeks and he knew that just being around you would calm his inner demons. At the same time, it was an ungodly hour and would you really be up for company?

A light switches on in the house before him and his breathing hitches. Could you actually be awake?

His phone vibrates in his jacket pocket and his heart skips a beat in hope that it was you.

Pulling out the Stark-tech, he flicks his wrist to turn on the screen and his smile widens when he sees your name on the screen.

Y/N: Hey, just thinking about you. Heard from Nat that you got back and if you need someone to talk to, I’m here. Glad you’re safe x y/n

Steve felt warm.

If he had to pick one thing about you that he loved and valued over anything else, it would be your compassion. You were always looking for ways to help and take care of others. On weekends, you would volunteer at the VA. Wednesdays, you visited Deaf/Hard of Hearing classrooms and signed stories with the students. Fridays, you had dinner with the Avengers to listen to the more boisterous ones recount their escapades. But besides all of that, you made it clear to anyone and everyone that you were always available for whatever they may want or need. You understood that it wasn't all sunshine and roses; that there was a darker side to everything they did. You could recognize the distant look in their eyes as they were trapped in memories of the past and were quick to respond and bring them back to the present.

It was one of the many reasons why he had a huge crush on you.

Only, you were adamant that you were not looking for a relationship.

You had said on more than one occasion that anyone would be lucky to have him as their significant other.

Steve at first, like a fool, thought that you would have included yourself in that. And when he approached the topic of making you his girl, panic overtook your expression, crushing Steve’s world.

Despite his embarrassment at your rejection, he knew that having you as a friend was substantially better than not having you in his life at all.

He didn’t realize that he had moved to your front door until he heard himself knocking softly on the cool wood.

He snaps his arm back to his side and he holds his breath in anxious anticipation. The chill of the night air seemed to have settled in his bones and he feels frozen to the spot.

He hears quite steps padding towards the doorway and he can hear your breath hitch when you lean against the door to look through the peephole and see him standing there. He hears you let out a quiet curse before hearing the metal of the deadbolt sliding and the twist of your doorknob followed by the squeak of a door hinge.

You throw open your front door and see Steve Rogers standing on the other side, posed in a wide stance with his hands stuffed into his pockets. You see with every exhale a puff of air swirl in the chilled night. His hair was mused, likely from his nervous habit of running his hands through it. He has the beginnings of a beard and you realize that he likely didn’t stop to clean up after his mission, coming straight to your home. One last sweep over him shows that he has no obvious injuries, but you see the tips of his ears and nose are a bright pink.

“Jesus, Steve! Come inside so we can get you warm,” you urge, reaching out to grab his wrist, and drag him into your warm house. You have to ignore the strong pulse that you feel in your grip and swallow back the thirst. You clench your jaw in an attempt to keep your fangs from falling and glance at Steve, telling yourself that he needs to be your priority. The thirst can wait.

Steve didn’t resist, easily following you into the warm home. You gently push him towards the couch where he collapses, feeling the weight of the week crushing him.

He doesn’t realize that he feels safe with you, making it okay for him to be vulnerable.

You rush out of the room towards your linen closet and grab an arm full of blankets for the half-frozen soldier.

Walking back into the room, you throw a blanket over his lap and tuck another one around his shoulders, cocooning him in warmth.

“How long were you outside?” you question, crouching down to take off his combat boots, treating him with care. “It’s freezing out there. You could have gotten sick!” You stand back up and bring his boots to your entryway. “You do realize that you aren’t invincible and that it’s dang near freezing, right?”

You turn back to the Captain and are pleased when you see the harsh pink fading to a healthy warmth over his face. Nodding, you move to the kitchen, shouting back to him, “Coffee or Cocoa?”

You hear him shuffling around in the blankets and you lean around the corner, shooting him a steely glare. “You, Mister, need to stay in those blankets until I say so. Do not make me tie you up.” You have to force yourself to keep a straight face when Steve flushes a deep red. “Now, Coffee or Cocoa?”

“Cocoa, please.”

You huff and roll your eyes, returning back to the kitchen.

You go through your cupboards and look for the kettle that you seldom use and let out a little triumphant cheer when you find it in the back of your pantry. You shuffle back to your sink and rinse out the inside quick before filling it up and setting it on the stove.

While you wait for the water to boil, your eyes flick to the dark colored glass bottle on your counter and you can feel your gums ache and your throat dry. It had been too long since you last fed and having Steve here wasn’t helping with the hunger.

Never in your entire existence has someone made your mouth water as much as the Super Soldier did…and it was concerning. You were alone in this world and had no one to go to for advice. But since meeting the soldier, you knew you would never be able to stay away, his scent like crack to an addict. It didn’t help that once you got to know the Brooklyn man that you realized you wanted to be his girl.

Steve Rogers was one in a million and it killed you that you could never be with him.

Because who would want to be with a blood-sucking vampire?

Your throat pulsates as you breathe in, his scent filling you to the brink with thirst…and lust.

Why did he have to pick tonight to come over unannounced?

You grab the hot cocoa powder from your cabinet and set it on the counter. You grip the ledge and close your eyes, debating whether or not you should just open up your bottle and drink. You could easily pass it off as wine and it would make this encounter significantly easier. At the same time, you risked Steve….asking questions about your drink.

But what were the chances of that?

Deciding that the need to drink outweighed the need to be careful, you pull out two coffee mugs and fill one with the essence of life.

The sweet aroma hits and you’re quick to take a deep drink from the cup, your eyes rolling into the back of your head as the thick liquid trickles down your throat. Once it enters your system, the air feels lighter and you feel yourself relax, the effect of it instantaneous.

Just as you are caught up in relief, the kettle lets out a shrill whistle, startling you out of your stupor.

As you pour the hot water into the mug and add the cocoa powder, you call out to Steve, “Marshmallows or whipped cream?”

“Marshmallows of course! What kind of monster prefers whipped cream?”

You snort in reply and put the preferred topping on before gathering both mugs in your hands and head back to the living room where Steve was still wrapped up in your blankets.

The image makes you pause for a moment, realizing that you liked seeing him wrapped up and looking so.....edible comfortable in your space.

You shake your head to clear those thoughts, reminding yourself that he will never be yours.

Instead, you hand him his mug and take a seat in your recliner next to the couch and sip at your own drink.

An easy silence settles between the two of you as you both enjoy your treats.

Steve is the one to break the silence.

“What are you doing awake at 1:30 in the morning?”

You shrug and reply, “Wasn’t particularly tired.” You sip at your drink and let out a low appreciative hum. “Plus, you never know when a super soldier might come knocking on your door.” You wink at him.

You’re slightly disappointed when he doesn’t blush.

You watch him. You watch as his shoulders move with every breath. You watch as his eyes move over you, switching between your hands and your deep red stained lips. You watch as his pink tongue peaks out between his lips, dampening them and then he swallows.

Your eyes meet blue and you faintly register the confusion in his.

“What?” You ask, a nervous giggle escaping you. Your gaze flicks down to the liquid in your cup and then back to him. You tuck a strand of your hair behind your ear and you give Steve a small smile, silently pleading that he doesn’t ask the question.

“What are you drinking?”

You look down at your mug again, swirling it in your hands, releasing the sweet fragrance in the air. You look back up at Steve and blink slowly. You breathe slowly, intentionally, and gulp, hoping to soothe your suddenly dry, tight throat. You glance back down at your drink and narrow your eyes and bring the mug to your lips for a deep drink.

When you pull back, you feel a drop escape your lips, trailing down, but before it got too far, you capture it on your finger.

Your eyes flick to Steve’s and you see his blue eyes darken with lust, fixated on your finger. You smirk, bringing the finger to your mouth and wrap your lips around it and suck off the blood. You peek at Steve through your eyes lashes and are pleased to see you have his undivided attention. You release your finger with an audible “pop” and give him a seductive smile.

“Thurston Wolfe - 2013 Zinfandel”, you purr, keeping your hold of seduction over him.

You didn’t like that you had to do it, but self-preservation always won out in the end.

You keep calm, thankful that your tricks would save you from a painful explanation.

Your heart drops to the floor when you see him flare his nostrils, breathing the hearty scent of your drink in. You watch in panic as the fog leaves his eyes and he refocuses his attention.

“Is-is that blood?” he asks in a careful tone, aware of how crazy he sounds.

Stunned that he was able to break off your spell, you surprise yourself when you answer with a simple, “Yes.”

The silence is deafening as you wait for his response.

He remains seated, his expression not giving anything away. He runs a hand through his hair, tangling it even worse than previously. “Alright, follow up question.”

You give him a skeptical look, confused as to why he wasn’t freaking out, running away from you and calling you a monster.

“I’ll allow it.”

Steve’s lips break into a small smile, amusement taking over his expression. “Why are you drinking it?”

You stare at Steve in utter disbelief, shocked at how this was happening. Was he for real?

“Well, naturally my first thought is that you are a vampire which would explain a lot,” he continues, moving to untangle himself from all of the blankets and setting his now empty mug on the table.

You gape at him, words finally finding their way back to you. “What do you mean, that it ‘would explain a lot?’” you demand, slamming your cup on the coffee table in front of you, the table groaning in protest at your forceful action. You couldn’t think of one instance where you could have given anything away.

Steve holds up his hands in surrender, “Hey, it’s okay. The only reason why I noticed is because I look.”

You grip at your roots and shake your head, “Steve, if you noticed something, I need you to tell me so I can make sure no one else will ever know.”

You meet his blue eyes, your own watering. Your heart is hammering heavily in your chest, anxiety filling you.

“You don’t understand,” you whisper, squeezing your eyes shut, tucking your chin in. “If word gets out about what I am, people will come for me.”

You release your grip on your hair and wrap your arms around your waist and squeeze.

“Even you knowing could be the end of me,” you breathe, the words like a whisper in the wind.

You feel warm hands cup your cheeks and your eyes pop open in surprise, quick to meet untroubled blue. “Hey, Y/N, just breathe,” Steve instructs. His gaze feels heavy on you. He slows his breathing, exaggerating, coaching you to follow along.

It takes a moment before you are able to focus, your eyes watching his lips as he inhales…and exhales. Inhales. Exhales.

A few passes of this and you feel the panic leave. In the midst of this, you realize that he hasn’t left. He hasn’t called you a monster. He hasn’t shown any fear.

You pry your gaze from his lips to meet his sapphire eyes. “Why aren’t you afraid?”

“Do I have reason to be?”,

His response stuns you into silence once again and you wonder if the surprises will ever cease.

Your eyes search his for any signs of deception.

There was nothing but awe, adoration and...love.

You press forward so your lips are only a hair-breaths away and pause, giving him the chance to pull away.

He doesn’t hesitate to meet the rest of the way, pressing just the briefest of kisses to your lips.

Your eyes meet for a brief second before you grip the back of his neck and pull him back to you in a passionate kiss.

As your lips move in sync, you can feel it build up in your bellow, bubbling over.

You had kissed people before but never had it felt so, for a lack of a better word, magical.

Steve is the one to pull away, both of you panting. He leans forward and presses his forehead against your, his thumb brushing affectionately over your cheek.

“I wish we had done that a long time ago,” he murmured, a smirk dancing across his lips.

You smack the back of your hand against his chest and scoff, “Way to ruin the moment!”

Steve lets out a loud laugh and picks you up easily and sits down in your spot before settling you back into his lap. He rests his chin on your shoulder, his breath tickling your neck. “Here I thought I was being cute and romantic.”

You both settle into your spots, feeling more relaxed than ever.

“You know, I still have questions.”

@bettercallsabs @dont-stop-keep-walking @geeksareunique @mermaidxatxheart @moonlessnight14 @thinkwritexpress-official @shreddedparchment

#bumpinthenightchallenge #Steve Rogers x Reader #Steve Rogers x Vampire!Reader #Vampires #Captain America x Reader #Captain America x Vampire!Reader #Steve Rogers #Captain America #Steve Rogers x You #Steve Rogers Fic #Captain America x You #Captain America Fic #Halloween Story #Halloween #Cold Nights #Blanket Cuddles #Hot Cocoa #Acceptance #Seduction

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ha-roro · 7 years ago

Photo

Yesstyle Haul & Review 🍑

Hello beauties, i get a lot of questions on the quality of yesstyles products. I’ve never bought from all categories, which makes it hard to answer some of your questions since i don’t know. So, i thought i’d save up, buy a few things (since it was on sale:P) & do a haul and review (including previous items i’ve purchased).

As usual i’m always honest, yes i am affiliated with yesstyle, but i wouldn’t be if i didn’t love the store. I was also already a regular customer before i became an affiliate.

Previous purchases are marked with * | Sponsored items marked with **

This review turned out to be longer than i thought so if you cba to read my small paragraphs just look at the bulletpoints (:

Clothing:

Blue Shirt*

The colour isn't exactly the same as it is in the picture. I got the blue one and it's more sky blue than navy blue, but i still love it! I also think that the photos look edited so maybe the filter and editing made it look darker? It’s very comfy, oversized and lightweight. The fabric is also very soft, perfect for the summer. The shirt is well made and i still have it in my wardrobe.

Quality: 5/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £9.85 / $13.01

Thunder Cloud Tee**

Honestly i have no idea why i chose this at the time lol, but overall it was well made. The design is embroidery, the material was a little thicker than your regular tee. I honestly didn’t wear it much or at all even cuz when i got it i changed my mind, maybe cuz it didn’t suit me? it looked hella cute on the model, but not so much on me (Don’t you hate it when that happens?). I’m selling it if anyone is interested!

Quality: 5/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Dark Pink Shirt**

This was a big favourite of mine. I don’t usually go for pink but i liked the look on the model so i thought i’d try it out. It was really comfy, i wore this a lot that i wore it out and ripped it a bit after a few months. (I sewed it back it up tho it’s all good). I still have this in my wardrobe too.

Quality: 5/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Navy Coat*

This was actually bought by my sister, but i thought i’d add it in the review cuz i’ve never bought a coat or jacket. The coat is more like a light jacket. Me & my sister didn’t expect it to be thin but looking closely at the photos it does look quite thin. It’s not a bad coat but it isn’t for winter cuz it won’t be thick enough. You would have to layer up. Still quite a good jacket for nippy days tho. (I guess that’s why the model is wearing summer clothes underneath lol).

Quality: 4/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £10.71 / $14.13

Underground “Fakku Jinrui” Tee

I was worried it would be see-through since many white tees aren’t completely opaque. When i wore it, my worries became reality. It is unfortunately a bit see through. You would have to wear a white bralette or vest top underneath :/ still really cute tho! The top doesn’t seem cheap whatsoever despite the price!

(In case you were wondering the translation of the Japanese characters is ‘fuck humanity’)

Quality: 4/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £4.60 / $6.07

Accessories/Jewellery:

Hawaiian Floral Snapback*

This is another fave of mine that i wore a lot, i just fell in love with the pattern. I was scared it was going to crap out on me, but it’s still going strong. The material is really good, again well made.

Quality: 5/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £11.84 / $15.63

Sunglasses*

The price is definitely a steal on this one, but i don’t think it protects your eyes from UV rays. Tho it didn’t really claim to protect against uv rays i will still give it a 4/5. It would definitely have been better if it did.

Quality: 4/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £3.78 / $4.99

Bucket Hat

Fits well, doesn’t feel cheap, tho i haven’t worn it much it seems like good quality for the price! I’ve been wanting to buy a bucket hat for the longest time, but i was always scared it wouldn’t suit me, or was scared of them not being decent quality. I’ve always seen reviews of the designs being off or the stitching is crap, but this one is dope!

Quality: 5/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £3.75 / $4.95

Letter Tail Cap

Again, i haven’t worn this much, but quality seems great. I love the tail detail on it.

Quality: 5/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £5.98 / $7.89

Earring 1, 2

I have been OBSESSED with geometrical earring lately so i thought i’d buy some instead of studs. I love the earrings i got and i wear them a lot when i go out. The first one did have a little fault. At the end of the ball on one of the earrings had like an extra ring attached. I could easily cut it off cuz i have a tool for it, but i’m not too sure how other people who don’t have jewellery clippers would take it off. It annoyed me a bit, but i just had to cut it. These are super cute and i’ve no other problems! The second earring was perfect!

Quality: 4/5, 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5, 5/5

Price: £3.10, £2.88 / $4.09, $3.80

Wrist Watch

I was kinda sceptical of the quality of the watches as i’ve seen mixed reviews. When i saw it i fell in love. It’s super cute, works perfectly fine and is exactly like the photo. I kinda wish i got the bigger one tho, but all is good.

Quality: 5/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £4.95 / $6.53

Non-prescription Round Glasses

Another super cute purchase that was super cheap! The glasses don’t close comeply when you fold them, but they are really cute. Round glasses are another late obsession of mine. They just look really nice imo.

Quality: 5/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £2.31 / $3.05

Bags/Wallets:

Convertible Canvas Backpack*

I was very hopeful that this bag would last me a while. I’ve seen mixed reviews on bags not being able to last long. I got this when i was in year 11 i believe, i used it for school and worn it out pretty quickly. I don’t remember exactly but i think it was around 4-5 months when the strap started to break. It was partly my fault i think. I put really heavy folders that i couldn’t be bothered to hold, along with my jacket on top. I do still have it tho because i sewed it back. Who knows how much longer it would’ve lasted if i looked after it properly~ but i will still knock down the rating because there are some canvas bags that cost the same or even less that can last longer.

Quality: 3.8/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £16.00 / $21.11

Wallet*

If i could rate it 100/5 on the site i would lol. I bought this 4 years ago and this wallet has lasted through tough times. I still use it occasionally. I currently use a smaller coin purse cuz i don’t really need all the compartments anymore. But when i do, i use this. It is such a good wallet and was the exact style i was looking for. It’s a shame that they no longer have it in store, but it would definitely had been a big recommendation of mine if you were looking for a big wallet. The price is also pretty good imo.

Quality: 5/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £7.00 / $9.24

Passport/Wallet Case

Looking at the reviews it was very mixed and i debated whether or not to get it because the negative reviews were convincing me. But i really wanted this case lol. So i just bought it and hoped for the best. Right off the bat when i first saw it the colour wasn’t the same as the photo. In the photos it was an emerald green but mine is a lighter green. If you compare the photos mine is practically a grass green. Not a fan of the colour much, but it was more of the quality i was worried about because that’s what people mostly complained about. Quality was actually pretty good. It was well made, doesn’t feel cheap. The only thing is that the structure is a tad off when i close it. It’s kinda weird to describe but it doesn’t look even. It’s not bad tbh but as a customer you want perfect scores on everything ya know. I’m still keeping it tho cuz it’s still very useable and it’s not horrible. Once you start adding things in the compartments the structure is fine.

Quality: 4.5/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 4/5

Price: £4.82 / $6.36

Canvas Tote Bag

Now this is a gorgeous bag in real life! On the photos it looks real cute, but even better when you actually have it. I bought A08White. The bag material is a thick canvas and it is very well made, and seem very sturdy. I love it!

Quality: 5/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £7.08 / $9.34

Home/Stationery:

Fine liner pen set (bought in pink & blue)*

The fine liners are in different colours, the patterns on the packaging is just different. The liners are pretty good but sometimes the ink doesn’t come out properly. This isn’t for all of them but some are like that. You kinda have to shake the pen to get it out.

Quality: 3.5/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £3.74 / $4.94

Planner*

This is a really good planner. You can buy this at any year and start whenever you want because you put the year. Perfect for school or work. This is unavailable now but just look at the other stuff from the brand. They are pretty pricey, but if you want a good planner this brand is really good. They also have a lot of different sizes. I got the small one so i can put it in my bag and it won’t take up a lot of space. The planner was also very well made.

Quality: 5/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £13.04 / $17.20

Washi Tape*

Unfortunately i was a bit disappointed in this. The pattern was fine but i didn’t realise it was a masking tape. I didn’t mind so much, but it’s not very sticky.

Quality: 3/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £3.07 / $4.05

Stickers* x* x*

Quality: 5/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £3.07, £3.70 / $4.05, $4.88

Beauty/Cosmetics:

TonyMoly Sheet Mask

I bought sheet masks: The Makgeoli (skin purifying) and Rice (clear skin) one. Haven’t tried these yet, but i know these aren’t fakes. Yesstyle sells real brands so it’s just the price you need to look at since they are sold at different prices in different stores.

Price: £2.19 / $2.89

Shoes:

Faux Leather Shoes

I was most excited for these shoes out of all the items i recently bought. I opened up the box and realised the shoelace was different, but I wasn’t even mad tho cuz the shoes were still nice. But when i looked at the product link again i saw that these are completely different shoes lol (I guess i was too excited or just forgot what they looked like). I couldn’t really tell the difference between the shoes i got and the shoes i originally chose until i saw the photo to compare. I then emailed yesstyle about the issue because as good as the shoes are i wanted the shoes i ordered. They were very nice about it and responded very quickly to my emails. They sent me the shoes i wanted and i got to keep the ones they accidentally sent me! BONUS! :D

Quality: 5/5

True to size on site: 5/5

True to photo on site: 5/5

Price: £16.15 / $21.31

Site review:

Site navigation - Very easy to navigate around the store with a lot of categories and subcategories. They also have a lot of filters you can choose from if you’re looking for something specific. 5/5

Product info - The photos can speak for themselves and the product descriptions are usually helpful. 5/5

Clothing Sizes - Unfortunately they don’t have a wide range of sizes. A lot of items are one size (they have measurements in the description so you know if they fit you). Since this is an asian site the sizing is on the smaller side compared to the US and UK. They also do have a lot of clothing with S,M,L and they have a plus size section but they could add a lot more. (Tbf yesstyle is basically a tkmaxx/tjmaxx so the sizing is from the brands, but make sure you know your exact measurements.) 4/5

Customer service - They were great. When i contacted them about my shoes i was worried i would have to wait a long time, because they have an automated response saying they will get back to you asap, but it may take up to 1-2 weeks. They responded in a couple of days which really surprised me and it was all sorted out in 2 days. This was the only time i ever had to contact them and it went pretty smoothly. 5/5

update on shoes! unfortunately they couldn’t send me the original ones i wanted so they decided to give me store credit on how much the shoes was.

And that’s it! phew that was long! If you wanna share your own experience reply to this post (: I will add an update on the shoes if anything goes wrong or if any of the new items crap out on me sooner than it should lol.

Thanks for reading! If you read the whole thing! You the real MVP! :D ♥

If you like these long hauls and reviews let me know and i’ll see if i can do more with other stores! Send me recommendations!

- ha-roro ♥♥♥

#review #haul #ys #haroro reviews #korean fashion #aesthetic fashion #mine

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gothify1 · 5 years ago

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If you regularly scroll through our many Who What Wear stories, then you probably come across a lot of shopping recommendations from one of our favorite sites, Net-a-Porter . However, have you ever wondered what our editors are actually buying and wearing from the luxury retailer ourselves? Well, today you’re in for a treat. From the $60 sunglasses Ally refuses to take off to a $1060 It bag (that I agree is totally worth the investment ), our team is sharing the items we’re obsessed with from NAP—that are somehow still in stock and available to buy. So, whether you’re looking for an actually functional coat and everyday boots, or perhaps a fun statement purse and solid pair of jeans, we’ve got you covered across the board. Just keep scrolling to see, read about, and shop all 23 of our picks (before they’re gone). "Burgundy is one of few colors I actually wear because it's as easy to style as black—and this cozy sweater is no exception." — Nicole Akhtarzad, Market Editor "Since the bulk of my day-to-day outfits are relatively simple, I usually rely on cool accessories to make them less boring. This bag definitely has done the trick this season." — Nicole Akhtarzad "I talk about these jeans a lot, but that'ts because I wear them a lot! I love the ultra high rise, the rigidity, and the cut (which is technically flared but so slightly that it feels more straight to me)." — Nicole Akhtarzad "Recently, long, flowy dresses are all I want to wear—like this one from Matteau with billowy sleeves and a nipped-in waist. It's a great transitional piece that works anywhere from the beach to a dinner party." — Kristen Nichols "I pretty much live in turtlenecks for the fall, and right now I'm wearing this one from Jacquemus on repeat." — Kristen Nichols "For workouts, I always rely on matching sets, including this one from Vaara, which I just added to my wardrobe. I love the cropped zip-up, which has subtle '70s vibes." — Kristen Nichols. Shop the matching Tyler Striped Stretch Leggings ($180). "Black jeans are a must in my wardrobe for fall and winter, and this pair checks so many boxes, from the high-rise to the sleek straight-leg. Plus, they play well with ankle boots (as exemplified here). What more could you ask in an everyday jean?" — Anna LaPlaca, Assistant Editor "This pair nails the slouchy jean look that's trending so hard right now, but doesn't compromise looking put-together one bit (a tough balance to nail, if you ask me). They're structured, but still roomy, and the light blue wash could easily pass as genuine vintage." — Anna LaPlaca "So what are you to wear with the above jeans I just recommended? This top from The Line by K, of course. I also own this one in the raspberry color, but I think I might need the cream now, too." – Anna LaPlaca "These simple Le Specs shades have barely left my face since I got them. After years of wearing 'weird' sunglasses, I was ready for something more subtle and flattering. This pair is super similar, and I think I may need them too." – Allyson Payer "I don't own many printed bags since I usually find them hard to wear, but this tiger-print one is very neutral and fits in with the rest of my wardrobe really well. Plus, it's truly the perfect size." — Allyson Payer "What really sold me on these is that they're weatherproof but still cool enough to wear on a perfectly dry day, so no need to save them for snow." — Allyson Payer "This set is simply perfect. The sweater is slightly cropped and the skirt has just a bit of swing. Wear them apart, wear them together. Either way, I promise you'll get a ton of use from these knits." — Kat Collings, Editor in Chief. Shop the matching Jersey Ribbed-Knit Maxi Skirt ($295). "A Barbour jacket is for life. I love that it's a heritage brand with a serious commitment to quality. The jacket even comes with a can of wax so you can weatherproof it for more serious weather situations. I love that Barbour partnered with AlexaChung for a more fashion take on the classic jacket. The color-blocking is a sweet addition, and I've never owned a jacket with more pockets!" — Kat Collings "This Wolford bodysuit is unlike any other bodysuit I've owned. It's made of a fabric that I'll describe as really thick tights. That means it hugs your body the same way a pair of tights conforms to your legs. It is a bodysuit in its highest form, which, to me, means it excels at creating a body-hugging silhouette sans any bulky top tucking. " — Kat Collings "I love a pop of color now and then to shake up my neutral-hued-filled wardrobe. This soft-to-the-touch jacket from Nanushka is one of the best investments I've made—it's feels so luxurious, and the color is to die for. I always get an influx of compliments when I wear it—and I can't complain about that!" — Judith Jones, Market Editor "I basically live in breezy cotton blouses on the weekend, and this comfortable and pretty vintage-inspired Doên one remains my go-to." — Judith Jones "I wear small gold hoop earrings daily—this gorgeous braided design by Laura Lombardi is my absolute favorite—they're the perfect size for everyday wear." – Judith Jones "I have a tiny obsession with mini crossbody bags at the moment—just so practical for that on-the-go lifestyle. I'm particularly into this Balenciaga beauty because it's simple in nature, but has just the right amount of statement-making details (ahem, the logo) to make it special." — Bobby Schuessler, Market Editor "I'm all about oversize shades these days that basically cover your entire face. These Saint Laurent stunners are constantly in my rotation." — Bobby Schuessler "I'm obsessed with my Nanushka vegan leather dress, which I own in black and now I'm weirdly tempted to also get in cream. I'm a fan of layering a long-sleeve top underneath, but it can also be worn by itself for holiday parties. I also can confirm that it travels well and doesn't wrinkle easily." — Erin Fitzpatrick, Senior News Editor "We barely get any real weather here in L.A., but that won't stop me from being prepared for that glorious moment I can finally bust out this pretty purple rain jacket." — Erin Fitzpatrick "After years of wearing Nike running sneakers, I think I might be fully converted to APL versions now. They're so lightweight and comfortable, they might actually convince me to make use of the gym membership I've only used twice this year (oops)." — Erin Fitzpatrick Up next? The best It-bags of the season, according to my mom .

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bradbdormanus · 6 years ago

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What to Wear to a Winery (Your Ultimate Style Guide for Winery Outfits)

What to Wear to a Winery

Wine tasting always makes for a good time! When delicious wine, breathtaking views, fun people and perfect weather surround you, the last thing you want to worry about is your outfit. That is why I put together this ultimate guide on what to wear to a winery. This style guide will not only answer what to wear wine tasting but also go over many style tips, outfit ideas, what to wear during different seasons and it’s full of outfit photos!

To start, let’s review some general winery outfit style tips. These are tips that apply to all of your wine tasting outfits no matter location or season! Keep these ten style tips handy when you’re packing for your wine region adventure.

1. Wear Comfortable Shoes: If you’re planning to sign up for a wine tour or have a long list of wineries you plan to visit, wear comfortable shoes. But comfortable doesn’t have to be sneakers. Instead of sneakers, wear flat sandals, wedges, loafers, or even some nice slides. Also take into consideration which wineries you will be visiting which means you might be walking in grass, dirt, gravel or cobblestone.

2. Go Hands-Free and Small with Your Purse: When you’re wine tasting, you will be walking around a lot, holding and reading brochures, tasting cheeses or chocolates, and of course, holding various wine glasses. So it’s best to wear a fuss-free bag. Also, if you carry a purse without a strap, you run the risk of leaving it behind or setting it down without keeping an eye on it. The best purse to wear to a winery is a small crossbody bag, like the super stylish Mini Marcie from Chloe, the classic Soho Disco bag from Gucci, or mini monogram crossbody from Saint Laurent.

3. Layer a Blazer or Cute Denim Jacket: If your winery outfit is looking a little simple, add a stylish layer. Depending on the season you could wear a denim jacket in the summer, a floral blazer in the spring, a long cardigan in the fall and a coat in the winter. Make sure this layer is not too bulky as you want to move freely no matter the season.

4. Go More Dressy Than Casual: Leave your leggings at home! Even though wineries are basically farms in the country, don’t think you can throw on jeans and a t-shirt and call it a day (unless of course you want to, but you wouldn’t be reading this post if you did). Opt for a little more dressy than casual. I still think that wine tasting is a pretty posh activity, so I try always to dress nice and classy. If you’re wondering how it is that you can dress classy read, How to Dress Classy – 7 Style Tips You Need to Know.

5. Low Maintenance Hair: Your wine tasting attire includes your hair so wear your hair up or style it in a way that doesn’t need maintenance throughout your wine tasting activities. If you’re planning on being out all day on the wine trail, I would suggest putting your hair up in a ponytail or bun. This way you won’t have to worry about it getting frizzy, going flat, and you won’t have to mess with it during your wine tasting tour. If I have some extra time in the morning, I’ll blowdry it, so it looks nice down.

6. Wear Chapstick: The main activity while wine tasting is drinking wine so instead of lipstick wear chapstick. You don’t want always to be checking your lipstick or re-applying when you get to the car. Keep it simple and wear chapstick.

7. Skip the Strong Perfume: You will be smelling a lot of wine trying to decipher what notes are most prominent, and you don’t want other smells interfering so skip the perfume! Not wearing perfume is also courtesy the group you’re wine tasting with and other guests in the wine tasting room or cave.

8. Wear a Pretty Print: If you need to bring some interest to your wine tasting outfit, swap a solid for a print. Instead of a solid blue dress, wear a dress with horizontal stripes like in my outfit example below. Wear a floral shirt in the spring, stripes in the summer, plaids & tartans in the fall and houndstooth in the winter.

9. Easy is Better: Don’t wear an outfit that is too high maintenance. What you wear to a winery needs to be comfortable and stylish, but remember point four, nothing too casual either.

10. Don’t Be Afraid to Wear White: There’s nothing wrong with wearing white to a winery. I have worn white jeans wine tasting, just see my outfit examples below. If you know you spill a lot, then I would suggest skipping the white.

What to Wear Wine Tasting in Different Seasons

When going on a vacation to Napa Valley, there are many choices to make. You need to consider where you’ll stay, which wineries you’ll visit, the time of year you’ll go, and what you’ll pack.

Packing the appropriate wine tasting attire is not necessarily tricky; you need to consider the locations you’ll be visiting and the time of year you’ll be going.

My favorite seasons to visit wine country is spring and fall because it’s not too hot or too cold. You don’t have to worry about sweating or getting sunburned. If you’re planning a trip to Napa Valley, I would suggest one of these to seasons. But let’s go over what you need to consider for each season and what to wear wine tasting in the spring, fall, summer, and winter.

What to Wear to a Winery in the Spring

The weather in Napa during the springtime ranges from the high 60s to low 70s during the day and mid to upper 40s in the morning and evening.

Napa Valley in May is chilly in the mornings and evenings, but the daytime temperature is perfect. Perfect to me is the 70’s, so if you like it a little warmer during the day, I would recommend waiting until last spring or early summer to visit Napa Valley.

In the spring pack more sweaters than you expect. Keep the sweaters handy in your car if you don’t plan on going back to the hotel before going to dinner. It’s also useful to keep them in the car when the tasting room is too cold or if you want to enjoy a glass of wine outside in the winery patio and it’s too breezy.

What to Wear to a Winery in the Summer

Summer in Napa Valley is pretty warm and sunny but this is what draws so many people from around California and beyond because it’s so beautiful! The temperature in the summer ranges from 80s–90s during the day and can cool down to the mid-50s at night.

In the summer opt for light colors, pretty prints, in light fabrics. Instead of jeans, wear skirts, shorts, and dresses.

If you do want to wear pants wear chinos instead of jeans. Chinos are very comfortable because it’s not very thick and not too tight. These two things would make this wine tasting trip very uncomfortable.

What to Wear to a Winery in the Fall

September is my favorite time of the year to go wine tasting because the mornings and evenings are crisp, but not too cold, and the temperatures during the day range from the 80s–90s. It’s the end of summer but not entirely fall. It’s the perfect time to enjoy a glass of wine on a winery patio or deck and take in the gorgeous views.

But fall is also one of the busiest times to visit Napa Valley because it’s harvest time. Harvest in the wine regions means the grapes are getting picked from the vines and many wine enthusiasts travel from all around to enjoy harvest events and special activities. Make sure to plan accordingly.

What to Wear to a Winery in the Winter

The most significant difference before spring or fall and winter, in addition to the temperature, is the crowds. If you’ve visited Napa Valley in the busy months, you know what I’m referring to regarding the masses. The tasting room at wineries is ten people deep, and you have to make your way to the counter. In the winter Napa has an entirely different feel, it’s peaceful, quiet and you have some places all to yourself.

In terms of weather, it gets pretty chilly in the evenings. Temperatures go down into the high 30’s in the evenings and during the day are in the mid to upper 50’s. I would pack plenty of layers because it can get warm in wineries.

If you’re planning on going wine tasting in the winter here are a few things to consider.

Just like any other time of year, wear comfortable footwear. You’ll be walking and on your feet, a lot so wear flat shoes or shoes with a thick stacked heel. This type of shoe is best for days filled with wine tasting and tours.

Make sure to bring a comfortable and warm sweater. If you decide to wear a thinner sweater, then layer on a coat. But if you don’t want to lug around a large jacket wear a very warm sweater instead. In the outfit example below I wore a thick olive green turtleneck sweater. I love the oversized collar and distinct fabric patterns; it brings texture and dimensions to an otherwise simple outfit.

With the large sweater and high black boots, I wore light colored skinny jeans. Remember; the balance is critical. (Read How to Look Stylish Every day – Your 5 Step Checklist to learn more about creating a balanced outfit). The boots are thick and heavy so to balance the boots I wore jeans on the lighter side instead of charcoal or black. I also wanted the shoes to stand out, and if I had worn black jeans, you wouldn’t have even noticed the boots.

It’s best to wear thinner skinny jeans with high boots such as the ones I’m wearing because you want the boots to fit snugly around your calves. The last thing you want is your jeans bunching up around your ankles.

You might have noticed a theme in the notes I mentioned. Comfort is key. You can be stylish and comfortable; you don’t have to sacrifice one or the other.

Wine Tasting Outfits

There are a variety of stylish wine tasting outfits you can wear to wine destinations such as Napa. The variation exists because of activities, weather, and destination. The two critical details that you need to make sure these outfits are stylish and comfortable.

If you’ve been wine tasting, you know that there is a lot of standing, walking, and more standing involved. You need to wear an outfit that is comfortable with these various activities.

When putting together an outfit find a middle ground. An outfit that is not too dressy but not too casual either. You’ll need to wear a wine tasting outfit that you can wear all day and smoothly transition into evening dinner if you don’t plan on going back to your hotel to change. Wine Tasting Outfits

Neutral Wine Tasting Outfit

The first wine tasting outfit is a blend of neutrals and one gorgeous printed top. The halter top is the main piece in this look, and the olive green cargos and wedges are the shirts supporting items. The cargo pants downplay the fancy, and the wedges keep the pants looking classy. With the natural color palette, this outfit is in its perfect setting.

The blouse has a pretty nature pattern which added the right amount of interest without it being an overpowering single piece. This outfit has a delicate balance of stylish but casual which I was able to achieve with the color and fabric choices.

A neutral outfit to wear wine tasting goes perfectly with this wine country activity since it’s such a relaxing atmosphere and the landscape of most wineries are earth-toned. This outfit will also work with flats or sandals if wedges are not your favorite thing to wear wine tasting.

If you’re wondering what to wear wine tasting remember: month, location and landscape. Put together a stylish and comfortable look and bring an extra pair of shoes just in case.

Stylish Wine Tasting Outfit

For a stylish approach consider a striped shirtdress. In this outfit, I went with a look that was more “dressy” but still had the feel of a casual weekend look. The relaxed fit of the dress and the strips make this dress wine tasting appropriate. I know wearing heels while wine tasting is taboo, but I couldn’t help but wear those gorgeous laser cut heels. The two paired perfectly together.

I know what some of you might be thinking, “you’ll spill red wine on the white,” but take it from someone that spills a lot, you can wear white wine tasting as I mentioned in the ten style tips at the start of this post.

This shirtdress is both stylish and comfortable. All you need is a few accessories and a cute pair of shoes.

Monochrome Wine Tasting Outfit

When a lot of walking is involved consider a cute pair of sandals. Remember I said cute pair of sandals, not flip flops. Keep it stylish even though you’re toning it down. With these casual wine tasting outfits make sure you have a focus point and something that still keeps the outfit classy.

In this third outfit, the sandals were the contrasting pop of color to the blue monochrome outfit. When wearing pants and a blouse of very similar color make sure the pieces are made from different fabrics. This top is a different material and hue of blue from the pants. The shiny silk looks excellent against the muted blue chinos. The blue structured patent handbag gives this casual wine tasting outfit structure, and again it’s a different material and color from the other two blues in this outfit.

Remember when you want to wear the same colors in one outfit, select different materials with a slight change in color, that can also mean shiny. In this outfit, the pants are muted, the silk top has a sheen to it, and the handbag is shiny.

Cute Wine Tasting Attire

The last outfit is something that would work for wine tasting locations where walking on dirt would be minimal. Overall it’s a cute and casual look, and the patterned pants added some individuality, and the heels dressed it up a bit.

Since the pants are very busy, I wanted to keep the rest of the outfit neutral. I paired these patterned pants with a blouse that matches one of the colors from the pattern.

With this chiffon blouse and a basic tee in the same color, I layered the light chiffon blouse over the shirt and created an airy, pretty layered look. The pop of color in this look was the handbag and the orange heels. These colors work well together because they’re all in the warm color family. The browns and oranges with a splash of red are appealing to the eye and come together nicely.

Planning Your Trip to Napa Valley

Wine tasting in Napa is a unique experience in my list of favorite places to visit. Napa brings together so many beautiful things that I love, from good food and wine to gorgeous landscapes and a relaxing environment to disconnect from the day-to-day.

With more than 400 wineries (600+ if you count Sonoma) you are sure to find a wine that you’ll love while wine tasting in Napa. If you are limited in time, at most you’d be able to visit 15 wineries during a weekend, well maybe you could do more, but I wouldn’t advise it because you’ll get too tired or too drunk.

My advice is to do some research ahead of time and make a list of the wineries you want to visit. There are popular locations like Sterling Vineyards, Beringer Vineyards, Beaulieu Vineyard, and Castello di Amorosa. But there are smaller gems where you can maybe find the best Merlot you’ve ever had. If this is your first time visiting this wine region make sure to read my guide on The Best Napa Valley Wineries for First-Time Visitors

The style of trip you wish to experience should help determine the tasting rooms you visit. If you want an intimate visit where you get to talk to the winemakers and learn insights into what makes their wine special than I would look for smaller tasting rooms.

If you’re looking to see castles, take a ride at Sterlings ariel tram and see where the most famous wines from Napa come from then I would organize a route for the larger vineyards.

Peter and I have visited the famous wineries and the smaller ones during our wine tasting trips in Napa. This September we made an effort to visit smaller vineyards with cozier atmospheres, but we deviate by visiting Beringer Vineyards to have a tasting of there reserve wine and of course a cheese plate.

We tend to plan, but if you’re wine tasting without any specific plan that works too. You can start driving and stop at the first place that looks appealing.

I hope you now know what to wear to a winery and these style tips help you put together cute wine tasting outfits.

Do you have additional questions on what to wear wine tasting? Leave me a comment below!

Stay Stylish, -V

Shopping for Stylish Wine Tasting Attire

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glittership · 6 years ago

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Episode #58 – The City of Kites and Crows by Megan Arkenberg

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Episode 58 is part of the Autumn 2017/Winter 2018 issue!

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In the City of Kites and Crows

By Megan Arkenberg

When you breathe deeply, really push the air from your lungs and let the cold valley wind fill you again, you can smell the city’s ghosts. They smell like burning. Not like fire but like everything that comes with it: smoke, scorched hair, wet carbon, ash. This is a city that burns spasmodically, a city of gas lines and rail cars, coal dust and arson, a city with wooden roofs and narrow alleys. A city that is always shivering.

Forty or fifty years ago, this apartment building was the hotel where Senators kept their mistresses and boy-toys, all blue velvet and gilt. Then a fire gutted it.

[Full transcript after the cut.]

Hello! Welcome to GlitterShip episode 58 for August 25, 2018. This is your host, Keffy, and I’m super excited to be sharing this story with you.

Our episode today is a reprint “In the City of Kites and Crows” by Megan Arkenberg, read by A.J. Fitzwater.

Megan Arkenberg’s work has appeared in over fifty magazines and anthologies, including Lightspeed, Asimov’s, Shimmer, and Ellen Datlow’s Best Horror of the Year. She has edited the fantasy e-zine Mirror Dance since 2008 and was recently the nonfiction editor for Queers Destroy Horror!, a special issue of Nightmare Magazine. She currently lives in Northern California, where she is pursuing a Ph.D. in English literature. Visit her online at http://www.meganarkenberg.com.

A.J. Fitzwater is a dragon wearing a human meat suit from Christchurch, New Zealand. A graduate of Clarion 2014, she’s had stories published in Shimmer Magazine, Andromeda Spaceways Magazine, and in Paper Road Press’s At The Edge anthology. She also has stories coming soon at Kaleidotrope and PodCastle. As a narrator, her voice has been heard across the Escape Artists Network, on Redstone SF, and Interzone. She tweets under her penname as @AJFitzwater

Content warning for descriptions of police violence and suicide.

In the City of Kites and Crows

By Megan Arkenberg

Forty or fifty years ago, this apartment building was the hotel where Senators kept their mistresses and boy-toys, all blue velvet and gilt. Then a fire gutted it.

I tell this to Lisse, and she rubs at the burn scar on the back of her knee, at the tattoo that crawls up her thigh in a hatch of green and golden lines, like a map of a city, or a circuit board in fragments. Lisse just got out of Federal prison for smashing the rearview mirrors off a police car. She has new scars now, the white tracks of some riot officer’s baton, one of which slices across her left nipple and makes her breast look punctured, deflated. She sits in her flannel bathrobe at the table in her living room, in the apartment that was a hotel room and still smells like the arsonist’s match, and she shakes her head with a slow, sad smile. “Hythloday,” she says, as though my name were a dirge. “How can you, of all people, believe in ghosts?”

Outside the bay window behind her, three stories below us, a crush of posterboard and sweatshirted bodies is churning and chanting its way up 9th street, towards the West Gate of the Senate. Lisse snaps photos on her phone. She edits an antigovernment webzine, contributes information to two antisenatorial projects that I know of—both documenting police brutality and violations of prisoners’ rights—and surely several others that I don’t. Her thick hair is unoiled and still damp from the shower, smelling of grass and wood dust, smelling of her.

“Everyone I’m fucking is trying to overthrow the government,” I tell her. I’m spread out on her couch like the jammy sediment in the bottom of a wine glass, and I know that this observation, this trenchant précis of the last thirty-six months, is the closest that I will ever come to political analysis. Or to self-reflection. Lisse, who will not let me back into her bed until I’m sober, who still fucks me on the couch, does not look up from the photos of the protestors on her phone.

“Well, Hythloday,” she says, half word and half sigh. “Why do you think that is?”

Some evenings, when I’m sober enough to pull on a pair of trousers and an old suit coat, tie my hair back and wash the traces of eyeliner from my cheeks, I take the train down to the university. It’s quiet and damp so close to the river, the trees whispering to themselves in the fog, and all the public spaces roped off with yellow lines of caution tape. If anyone were to ask me what I’m doing here tonight—anyone except for Lisse, who won’t ask me, who never asks—I’d say I came for the lecture on the Mnemosyne project, an answer both innocuous and vaguely suspect. Really, I’m here to see Jesse.

They check IDs at the door of the auditorium. I don’t know if “they” are the Mnemosyne developers looking for allies or a Senatorial commission tallying enemies, or just the university, looking to cover its ass either way. Inside, the dim room flickers with tablet and laptop screens as people pull up the app. Mnemosyne, Jesse explained to me once as we lay on the floor of his bedroom, sipping coffee from wine glasses, is an augmented reality application. It checks your location with your device’s GPS and overlays your screen with location-sensitive news. Censored news, he meant, censored images, photographs you shouldn’t see, stories no one should be reporting. I know Lisse is providing data for the project, and Jesse helped with the programming.

Everyone I’m fucking wants to overthrow the government.

(Well, Hythloday, why do you think that is?)

A small gray woman in a gray suit reads off her PowerPoint slides at the front of the room, and I lean against the wall in back, scanning the crowd for Jesse. He’s sitting in the second-to-last row, the strands of silver in his dark brown hair showing dramatically in the liquid-crystal glow of his laptop. His face and lips look as blue as a drowning man’s. I like to watch him like this, when he doesn’t know I’m looking. When he knows he’s being watched, when he’s teaching or lecturing, he becomes brilliant, sparkling, animated. His dark eyes and his smile widen, light up, his gentle laugh drags parentheses around the corners of his mouth. But when he’s alone, when he thinks no one is watching, he shrinks into himself. The laugh lines settle. He looks lost, like a book that someone has misplaced.

At the end of the lecture, he snaps his laptop shut, slings his bag over his shoulder. He catches sight of me on his way to the exit. He smiles too widely, looking exhausted.

“You weren’t expecting me,” I say. “I know.”

“No, it’s fine.” He licks his lips, which still look dry and blue. “Did you like the talk?”

“Sure,” I lie.

He turns abruptly and strides out of the lecture hall. I follow down the glossy corridor, out into the parking lot, where the mist rolls in from the river, smelling of rot. Jesse stops, leans against the wall of the auditorium, and his hair catches on the rough brick. He grabs me around the waist and drags me in for a kiss.

(Nine people contributed material to the Mnemosyne project, he told me, leaning against the pillows. The marks of my teeth were pale and raised along his shoulders. Four of them are anonymous. Five of them are missing.)

He clings to me like a drowning man, fingers digging into my back, bruising, his mouth opening beneath mine as though I could give him breath. He tastes like mint chewing gum and cigarette smoke. He winces when my tongue brushes against his teeth, but when I start to pull back, he whispers, “Don’t.”

(He kicked a stack of books off the side of the bed, yanking off his jacket and tie, and he told me to fuck him. I took the harness and the strap-on from the nightstand. He spread out on the bed, watching impatiently over his shoulder as I adjusted the buckles and straps around my thighs. The headlights from a car across the street slipped through the slats in the window blinds, caught his eyes, flattened them to smooth disks of gold.)

I weave my fingers through his, and he grunts in pain.

“Jesse.” I pull back. His sleeve cuffs gap above the buttons, and I can see the shining red marks on his wrists, marks my hands could never have left. The neck of his undershirt has slipped down, damp with mist and sweat, and bruises show under his skin, black and yellow and blue.

“Don’t worry about it,” he says. “Please. Just stay with me.”

(We fucked, and even though I was sober, it was the disjointed, disappointing sex of people who are drunk, and angry, and afraid.)

We take the train to his townhouse on the east side of the city. The streetlights around us glare like a hangover. Alone in the second-to-last compartment, he leans against my back, his cheek against my shoulder blade, his arms tight around my waist. “The dean wants to see me tomorrow,” he murmurs. I turn my head, looking for our reflection in the train window, but it’s too dark inside, too bright out.

(Afterward, he asked me to hold him. He curled around me, his head resting in the crook between my bicep and my breast, his arms around my hips. He didn’t say my name again. After a few minutes, his breathing settled. I kissed his cheek and tasted salt.)

This city burns so often that every fire has a name. Ships burning, churches burning, schools and factories and luxury hotels. The S. S. Virgil fire, the St. John’s fire. On a windy day, you can still smell the smoke rising from St. John’s preparatory.

And when you aim the camera of your phone down at the sidewalk in front of the West Gate, down at the cracked cement with its tarry traces of chewing gum and bird shit, you can still see the outline of Mark Labelle’s blood, the smooth puddle that it left as he died on a cold Sunday afternoon in April, beaten to death by riot officers. The stain that was still there the next morning, when the body was packed away in a city morgue and the police surveillance video had disappeared. Gone, as they say, without a trace—except for this palimpsested slab of sidewalk, which someone snapped on their phone, which someone else uploaded to the Mnemosyne project, which now trickles through this elegant little app to the eyes of anyone who stands here beneath the wrought iron gate. Your own private haunting, in the palms of your hands.

There are dozens of places like this throughout the city, thanks to Lisse and Jesse and all the rest of them. Haunted places. Revolutions are made out of hauntings, out of missing bodies and ghosts.

Did you know that? I can assure you that the government does.

Remedios and Gavin live above their gallery on Elliot Street, which has burned so many times that the new houses are all built out of concrete. Every surface north of 23rd is brightly painted: flag murals, forest scenes, mountain silhouettes, massive bare-breasted women with galaxies in their eyes. Walking up the sidewalks, listening to the cold reverberating echo of your footsteps, you get the feeling that this part of the city has transcended the organic. At least until you see the fast food wrappers caught in the grates of the pristine concrete sewers. Everything, even the wrappers, smells like stone and diesel.

Gavin is a sculptor, and he doesn’t mind this sort of thing. Remedios, though, rebels. Their back yard is full of tomatoes and bright yellow-flowered squash, and two fat hens cluck in the chicken coop beside the rusted bike rack.

The back stairs take you either into the gallery, through the second floor, or up to their apartment on the third. The gallery is always unlocked. I glance inside just long enough to see that Remedios’s Brutal exhibition is still on display, wall after wall of bare torsos with unspeakable scars. The gray, wine-stained carpet smells like dust, and there are fat black flies on the windowsills. A stray exhibition program flutters in the box by the fire escape, the title in red lower-case sans-serif: These are not the bodies we were born in. I let the door swing shut.

Upstairs, in the kitchen, Remedios is standing barefoot at the sink, washing cherry tomatoes and crying.

(You weren’t expecting to see me, I’d said, because none of them ever are.

No, he said, it’s fine.)

“Hythloday.” She drops the bowl into the sink, where it spins, clattering, spilling mottled red-and-yellow tomatoes across the gray ceramic. She flings her arms around my neck, stands on tiptoe, presses her flat chest against mine. Her hair is dark blue and shaved close to her head, and it smells like the gallery, like dry skin and abandonment.

(Please, just stay with me.)

She pulls me towards her on the bed, which is a low double-mattress in the front room, covered in shawls and old saris and stuffed animals. Her fingers are already undoing the buttons on my shirt. “Shouldn’t we wait for Gavin?” I ask, but she makes a sick squeaking sound.

“He isn’t here,” she says.

“What do you mean?”

“He’s gone, Hythloday.”

She tugs at my sleeves, and I ease myself down beside her on the mattress. “What do you mean?”

She shakes her head, falls silent. I kiss her forehead, and she rolls me over, pushes me back against the pillows with the dead weight of her body.

(Four of them were anonymous, Jesse had told me. Five of them are missing.)

Afterward, she curls up with her back against my stomach, a little spoon, or a snail in its shell. It feels strange not to have Gavin’s arms crossing mine above her small body, Gavin’s heady juniper smell in my nostrils. Remedios’s breathing slows, hitches, then steadies, like a ship breaking into deep water.

“We were marching up Tribunal,” she says. “There was a gathering at the West Gate. He thought we should be there, say a few words. The police arrived and we were separated.”

Somewhere in the neighborhood, a siren begins to wail. I kiss the back of her neck, and she looks over her shoulder.

“He’s dead, isn’t he?”

(Everyone I’m fucking is trying to overthrow the government.

Well, Hythloday, why do you think that is?)

I kiss her nose, her eyelids. “I don’t know,” I lie.

“Hythloday?” Lisse crouches over me. Her fingers wind around the back of my neck, giving my hair a sharp tug. “In all seriousness. Why do all your lovers want to overthrow the government?”

“Guess I have a thing for rebels.”

“Seriously.”

“Mm-hm,” I say. Her face is unreadable. I close my eyes, lean back into her grip. “You’re all so electric, and so secretive. Meetings in dark alleys and warehouses, throwing bricks through Senate windows. It’s so sexy. And don’t get me started on the posters and the pamphlets and those long, lonely nights with a busted stapler in the back of the copy shop—”

She cuts me off with a kiss, dragging my head up to hers. Her mouth tastes like orange juice and almond chapstick, her lips bruisingly firm, her teeth sharp.

“Just for once,” she whispers, “I wish you would think.”

Think. As though I weren’t always thinking, too much for my own good. Thinking of her body, the scars I can see and the ones I can’t, the hipbones that jut prominently against my hands where they were once buried in flesh. Thinking of the marks shining on Jesse’s wrists and chest, of Remedios crying at her kitchen sink. Thinking about protestors and fire hoses, pepper spray, gunshots. Thinking of the history of this city, this apartment building and the fire that gutted it.

Thinking of being gutted. Being burned.

“All right, Lisse.” I rub my eyelids, smudging what’s left of yesterday’s liner. “Everyone I’m fucking realizes that this country is going to shit, and unlike me, they have the courage and integrity to do something about it. Fair?”

She doesn’t answer. I open my eyes. A flood of sunlight pours through the windows, sharp with afternoon. The living room is empty. When I look towards 9th and Tribunal, I see that the crowd of protestors has dispersed, leaving a single piece of wet posterboard in their wake.

Hythloday. I suppose you caught the reference. A traveler in no-place, a stranger in Nowhere. My mother kicked me out when I was fifteen, and ever since, my only reliable roof has been the sky. The city of kites and crows. It doesn’t burn as easily as the city of flesh and blood, I’ll give it that. And there have been friends’ couches, lovers’ bedrooms: roosts for a night, or for a season. I have this image of myself flying across the city, from nest to nest, like something from a children’s story.

Where do the birds go during a revolution? I read somewhere that every pigeon in Paris flew away during the summer of 1793. It was so hot, and every street in the city stank of blood. I have no idea if any of that is true. I have this recurring dream of a guillotine blade falling, the thud of it scattering crows, like a spray of embers from a collapsing roof. They don’t settle again. Whatever died wasn’t to their taste.

The fire at St. John’s preparatory school began because a little girl stuck a match into a bird’s nest outside her dormitory window. Little girls are cruel, crueler far than ravens or guillotine blades, and flames in a wooden building travel faster than cruelty. Within seven minutes, everyone who was going to make it out alive had already left the building. They stood on 23rd street clutching their books, their dolls. Everyone else died. And some who got out died, too, later on, from the smoke.

I tell this story to Lisse, and she frowns. It is a story about all the things she loves: a story about home, about violence and brutality and revenge, about innocent bystanders.

But it is not a story about justice.

“Only ghost stories are about justice,” I say, and she shakes her head.

(How can you, of all people, believe in ghosts?)

When I return to the gallery, there are flies everywhere.

(Where did the bruises come from? I asked Jesse. But they weren’t just bruises, not merely bruises, although the purple stain on his chest showed the treads of a military boot. The white and red marks on his arms, the stiffness in his fingers came from being cuffed, being tied, and tightly. I knew the signs.)

Remedios and I go into the bedroom and fuck and don’t say word about Gavin. She moves so stiffly that I’m afraid I’ve hurt her, but when I slow down, she twines her legs around me and hisses in my ear: “Don’t stop.” We fall asleep afterward, sore and exhausted.

Later still, I wake alone to the buzzing of the flies.

(The dean wants to see me tomorrow, he’d said, resting his cheek against my shoulder blade. And I couldn’t see our reflection in the window.)

And although it’s the last thing on earth that I want to do, although I can already smell the sour stink in the dusty carpet, I go down to the gallery. Down to the first floor, where the flies are thickest. Down to the back room.

(Jesse’s things are scattered across the bedroom floor. His books, cracked along the spine. His ties and jackets and dress shirts, torn from their hangers and crumpled, dirtied with the muddy prints of boots. The contents of the nightstand, small and obscene in the light of day.)

I see the folding chair first, collapsed in the center of the room beneath the light fixture. And she sways at the end of something that shows bright orange against her blue hair: an electric cord. She’s been here for a while now. Her limbs have gone stiff, her tongue black against her pale chin.

I stand on the chair to cut her down. When she lands in my arms, I lose my balance, fall to the floor with a solid, bruising thud.

On the train back to 9th street, the woman in the seat across from me is reading something on her tablet. She looks up at me, suddenly. Without saying a word, she cries, and cries, and cries.

None of us has the body we were born in. Life leaves its traces, its teeth marks on our throats, its maps across our thighs and in our fingertips, its footprints on our chests. The body that I was born in didn’t have breasts, didn’t have hips, and I didn’t know it had a cunt until I was nine years old. Love leaves its traces on us, and hate.

I fill the antique tub in Lisse’s bathroom until the frigid water flows over the edge, splashing across the dark green tile floor. I close my eyes, plug my nose, plunge to the bottom. Even under water, I smell burning.

I’ve stopped binding recently, stood in front of the mirror on the back of the bathroom door and cupped my breasts the way I used to cup Lisse’s. It felt alien. Not wrong, just not mine. I think of Lisse’s tattoo, the marks on Jesse’s wrists and neck and chest. I think of the slight weight of Remedios, dangling from an electric cord noose. And I think damage is what teaches us to inhabit our bodies, and everyone I love has learned that long before me.

At last, I come up for air, and Lisse is waiting for me, sitting on the edge of the tub in her flannel robe. “What’s wrong, Hythloday?” she asks.

But nothing’s wrong. I’m unscathed.

“It’s my gift,” I say softly. “My own special talent. I don’t follow the crowd, and I never have. I don’t get caught up in things. The world is on fire and I don’t even feel the heat.”

I reach for her, and she isn’t there.

I get out of the tub, wrap a fraying towel around my waist, go into the hallway. The door to her room is on my right. I put my fingertips on the handle, hoping it will be locked, but it isn’t, it swings soundlessly open.

The smell of smoke and scorched hair and wet carbon rushes out. Inside, everything is covered in a layer of dust.

END

“The City of Kites and Crows” is copyright Megan Arkenberg, 2016, and was originally published in Kaleidotrope.

This recording is a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives license which means you can share it with anyone you’d like, but please don’t change or sell it. Our theme is “Aurora Borealis” by Bird Creek, available through the Google Audio Library.

You can support GlitterShip by checking out our Patreon at patreon.com/keffy, subscribing to our feed, or by leaving reviews on iTunes.

Thanks for listening, and we’ll be back soon with “Never Alone, Never Unarmed,” an original story by Bobby Sun.

Episode #58 – The City of Kites and Crows by Megan Arkenberg was originally published on GlitterShip

#GlitterShip #lgbtq fiction #queer fiction #short stories #science fiction and fantasy #podcast

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itendswhereitallbegan · 7 years ago

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It’s the first of December and the Christmas countdown starts NOW!! Christmas is my absolute faaavourite time of the year and when I was younger I would start making my wish list months before the big day. As I’ve gotten older though I’ve found it increasingly difficult to think of things that I’d like to receive and that my friends and family would like to receive too. This year I’ve compiled a list of items that the chic and fashionable woman may want for Christmas including clothes, shoes, accessories, beauty, tech and more. I hope this will help build up a quick picture of what a modern city girl may wish for this Christmas for all those confused boyfriends, husbands and friends!

So here are some gifts for her if you’re stumped this festive season:

Fashionista

White Stuff Nene Jacket

Gloriously soft and fluffy, this Nene jacket from White Stuff is my fave of the season! It’s incredibly warm and has actually served me much better than my other winter coats so far. It’s thick enough that it’s pretty much completely wind proof and with all that fluff the heat stays inside! I’ve been wearing this one every day since I got it because it’s perfect for pretty much all occasions. You can very easily dress it up or dress it down making it a great gift this winter.

Available from White Stuff for £120

White Stuff Grey Spot My Heart Jumper

There’s something very Christmassy about this jumper despite the lack of Christmas trees or Christmas hats adorned on it. It’s super cute and cosy and a really great, light option to keep you warm this winter. It’s simple enough that most people will love it but with enough details to make your outfit that little bit more interesting. This one is nearly sold out on the website so grab it quick if it’s on your Christmas list!

Available from White Stuff for £55

Dune Olyvea Red Suede Boots

One of my absolute favourite items on this list are these gorgeous red suede boots from Dune. I’ve only had these for a week but already had so many compliments on them. The red colour is perfect for Christmas and the block heel means these actually make for sensible day shoes and are very comfy. These bad boys were actually out of stock for weeks so if you’ve got your eyes on these then snap them up quickly!

Only downside is that they have coloured a few of my socks red so I will be wearing black socks/tights with them from now on!

Available from Dune for £99

Barts Women’s Jasmin Beanie

I find that if you really don’t know what to give for Christmas, you can never go wrong with a good hat, scarf and gloves! This chunky knit grey beanie from Barts is super cosy and even has an extra fleece layer around the inner edge to keep your head extra snug. What’s more this beanie is hand-knitted so each and every one by Barts is slightly different making it that little bit more unique.

Available from Tiso for £27

Charles Conrad Rose Gold Watch

Minimalist watches are still all the rage right now so this rose gold watch from Charles Conrad makes for the perfect gift that you know will be treasured long after Christmas is over. I love the simple watch face with roman numerals round the edge, which look so elegant. Charles Conrad watches are actually all unisex so the watch face is a bit larger than similar watches out there. Whilst some of their other watches would work well for both sexes, I think the rose gold one is best suited to the ladies!

ALSO, get 30% off full price Charles Conrad watches on Watches2U.com with the code ‘WHATSHOT30’. Valid until 31st December 2017.

Available from watches2u for £169

Rose Gold Pandora Rings

I’ve always been a huge fan of Pandora’s stacking rings and I’ve been eyeing up their new Rose Gold collection ever since it’s release. They have a huge range of rings with some very simple and other more extravagant items. What I love about Pandora’s jewellery is that you can mix and match pretty much all of it and over the years I’ve built up a collection of silver and rose gold jewellery that can be paired with anything. Pandora’s charms and stacking rings make for great Christmas presents if you know that someone’s already a fan of their range because then you can just add to the their collection. I wear four of these Pandora rings daily, with three stacking rings and the radiant elegance ring as the star of the show. The Daisy Band one is really special so I save that for parties and such!

Puzzle Heart Ring £45 // Droplets Ring £55 // Radiant Elegance Ring £55 // Linked Love Ring £45 // Dazzling Daisy Band Ring £75

Beauty Addict

Magnitone BareFaced Shimmer Brush

I have always been skeptical about gadgets like this, wondering if it’s just the beauty industry trying to push another expensive product that I don’t really need. However, ever since I first got my hands on this back in 2015, I’ve been a convert to the Magnitone BareFaced Viba-Sonic Brush! The best thing about this brush is that the results are immediate (yes, immediate!) and you’ll have silky smooth skin from day one. For people who think that their skin is good enough without one of these, I can assure you that it is honestly impossible to get as deep a clean from just using an exfoliator or cleanser. This would be the perfect gift for any lady as it’s great for all skin types and can be used on a daily basis. The shimmer brush is limited edition, which makes it just that little bit more special for the festive season. What’s more, it comes with a 12 month warranty so there’s no need to worry about repairs – I’ve had mine for 2 years already and never had a problem with it!

Read my full review of the Magnitone BareFaced Vibra-Sonic Brush here.

Available for £90 from Magnitone

Magnitone Wipeout! Cleansing Cloth

I’ve seen a couple of reviews of these wipes and I honestly just couldn’t believe that they would be able to remove make up without the help of a cleanser. However, I managed to remove a full face of foundation, mascara and eyeliner with just a few rubs from this uber soft cloth. I couldn’t believe my eyes! I was most impressed that it managed to remove all of my mascara, which is usually quite tricky and I have to use an oil-based make-up remover. This cloth works like m a g i c and it’s now an essential part of my night-time routine! This is an essential for any girl that wears makeup during the day and she’ll thank you eternally (well, for 1000 uses) for bringing this magic cloth into her life.

This pack contains two cleansing cloths and each one is reusable up to 1000 times. Yes, 1000 times. It’s machine washable, super compact and super useful – great for every day use or for travelling! Using one of these also means less disposable wipes in the landfill so it would make the perfect gift for an eco-friendly gal.

Available from Magnitone for £15

7th Heaven Complete Pamper Pack

7th Heaven face masks have always been my go-to when I’m in need of some pampering. At only £1 per pack, they’re super cheap but soo good! The new complete pamper pack that they’ve released for Christmas would make the perfect gift for someone who’s been a bit stressed lately and needs a bit of time to themselves. This pack is complete with 8 different face masks, an exfoliating and bath & shower pom pom, a headband, a mini towel, glove masques, sock masques and finger masques. If you’re wondering what the hell the last three are, the glove and sock masques are ultra moisturising gloves for dry or rough hands and feet, and the finger masques are for strengthening your nails and cuticles. For just £19.99 this is one of the best beauty bargains out there this Christmas should make any girl very happy on Christmas day. Giving someone an excuse to treat themselves is one of the best things you can do this season!

Available for £19.99 from Argos

Iconic London Make Up Brushes

Now I’ll be honest, when I first got my hands on these babies I had no clue what each brush was supposed to do. It’s been a steep learning curve but I’ve realised that having a specific brush for each part of your face really does help create that ultra-flawless look and it makes me feel like a badass makeup pro. These 12 pearl gold brushes are sure to make any makeup fiend very happy and add a bit of luxe to their beauty collection. The best thing about Iconic London is that all their brushes are 100% cruelty free and vegan!

Here’s what’s included:

Large Powder, Tapered Powder , Foundation Buffer, Contour Buffer (Perfect for sculpting) , Angled Powder (to sculpt cheeks) , Concealer blender (to cover imperfections) , Flat Fan Brush (perfect for dusting) , Large Shader (apply shadows ), Medium Angled Shader: Gives a soft application of colour. Great to use on brows or to blend the crease , Tapered Blending Brush (perfect to apply colour) , Small Angle Brush (perfectly shape and define brows) & Small Point Brush (use with gel or liquid liners).

Available from Iconic London for £75 (+ 10% student discount online!)

Magnitone BlendUp Brush

A new addition to the Magnitone family is the BlendUP Vibra-Sonic Makeup Blending Brush. As I said above, I’ve been a huge fan of Magnitone since 2015 so I was pretty excited to see their new product for applying foundation. There are three different modes: blend, airbrush and clean, and you can use these for light, medium or full coverage. What’s really cool is that you can even use this brush to add the finishing touches such as bronzer, highlighter and blusher! I’m sure this will quickly become a must-have for beauty addicts who’ll accept nothing less than flawless coverage. My only problem with this product is that it takes longer to apply because you’ve got to wait for the vibrations to absorb smoothly into your skin but the result really is so much better than your average make up brush. There is literally zero evidence that you even applied any product to your face!

Available for £70 from Magnitone

Blink Brow Bar Super Natural Brow Gift Set

Did you know that brow exfoliator existed? I certainly didn’t until I opened up this small package of brow essentials. I even created a poll on Twitter and Instagram and it turns out most other people don’t know these exist either! Strong brows are all the rage right now and I don’t know many girls who haven’t been sucked into this trend. This super natural brow gift set is for those that aren’t messing around when it comes to their brow game. Including brow exfoliator, brow day cream and a brow pencil, this will take your brow game to the next level!

Available from Blink Brow Bar for £35

Bobbi Brown Bronze Shimmer Compact

Bobbi Brown’s Shimmer Compact is a favourite amongst beauty lovers. This little compact works as a highlighter, bronzer and eyeshadow making it an essential for all outings. The versatility of this means this is suitable for pretty much any makeup fiend so throw a little bit of glitter their way this Christmas!

Available from Debenhams for £30.15 (RRP £35.50)

Cook Extraordinaire

Cookshop Waffle Maker

Waffle makers are one of those things that everybody wants but no one feels like they can justify buying, which is exactly why they make the perfect Christmas presents!! Everybody loves a good Belgian chocolate waffle at the Christmas market but nobody wants to pay the $$$ price tag that comes with them. Problem solved with this uber cheap waffle maker so you can make them in the comfort of your own (warm) home!

Available from Debenhams for £21 here (RRP £35)

Kilner Spiralizer

A spiralizer is one of those trendy gadgets that insta-foodies love to have in their kitchen. I picked this Kilner one up at random but it is actually so, so good and I was amazed by how quick and easy it is to use. For £15 I thought this was an absolute steal as the vegetable lands right inside the jar creating zero mess and you create your salad to go quickly and easily. The blades at the top are engineered so that your vegetable of choice is firmly stuck vertically on top of the jar and you just need to twist it round to create those beautiful vegetables swirls.

Available from Debenhams for £15 here

Breville Blend-Active Blender

When I went through my fitness crazy phase in my second year of uni, I quickly nabbed one of these Breville Blend-Active Blenders to mix up some tasty protein shakes and smoothies. Three years later, this is still one of the top blenders on the market and I’d say that you definitely get the most value for cost to quality. I love this blender because it blends directly into a bottle, ready for you to take away with you. This blender has so many uses and my mum and I now share it with me using it to make protein shakes and her using it to make soup!

Now available in green, blue and pink with different container sizes.

Available from Debenhams for £20 (RRP £30)

Shop more of Debenhams Christmas range here.

Biscuiteers Nutcracker Biscuit Tin

I have been a huge fan of the Biscuiteers ever since I did work experience with Penguin Random House (read more about that here) and they had a custom box of Willy Wonka inspired biscuits made up. Whoever said food isn’t art clearly hasn’t seen these beautiful biscuits because they are stunning! Almost too stunning to eat. These Nutcracker biscuits make for the perfect Christmas gift and your recipient can always keep the tin to remind them of these exquisite biscuits!

Available from Biscuiteers for £35

Home Goodies

HEMA Instax Accessories

In this digital age it’s nice to see that polaroid cameras have made a solid comeback. I love taking polaroid photos to mark special moments but, the problem is, I’m always losing these little prints since I’m reluctant to risk damaging them by pinning them up. I’m so glad I’ve now got my hands on the Instax accessories range from HEMA so I’ve can put my fave prints in a little album and safely store the rest of them in this handy polaroid sized box. This bundle would make the perfect gift for anyone who already owns an Instax mini, or, if you know someone who’s keen to get one, you can purchase one of those too at HEMA for £70.

Instax mini 8 camera bag £12.50 | Instax photo album £5 | Instax storage container £2 | colour film Instax mini Glossy (2×10/pk) £15

Unicorn Slippers

Unicorns are all the rage right now and I can’t think of a better gift for someone who likes to hibernate at home during the winter months. These amazing slippers will make each step feel magical and add a bit of fun to your home. Plus, the super thick unicorn face at the front means your toes will never go cold!!

Available from Find Me a Gift for £14.99

Leather Goals Journal

Every #girlboss needs a goals journal to get sh*t done, or as it says on the cover “achieve your dream life”. This plain leather journal feels suitably luxe for your biggest, wildest dreams. Over the past few months I’ve become obsessed with writing to-do lists for my day/month/year/LIFE. What’s more, this journal is filled with that thick cut paper that’s really satisfying to write on. Help your gal pal achieve her goals this coming year with a swanky new leather journal.

Available from Find Me a Gift for £36.99

*This post contains some PR samples. All opinions are my own.

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Christmas Gifts For Her: Fashion, Beauty, Kitchen & Home It's the first of December and the Christmas countdown starts NOW!! Christmas is my absolute faaavourite time of the year and when I was younger I would start making my wish list months before the big day.

#Beauty #Christmas Gift Guide #Dune #Fashion #Home #Instax #Kitche #Pandora

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gastro-nomique · 7 years ago

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Modern, Minimalist Mom Capsule Wardrobe – Year 3

My minimalist mom capsule wardrobe was so popular the last two years (and made dressing each day so fun and easy) that I couldn’t help do it again this year. Only a little bigger and even better.

Every piece here is a proven winner– that shirt, cardigan, hoodie, and pair of jeans that you’ll reach for again and again. The ones that you love to wear and can be worn a millions different ways. These are the items that keep us comfortably chasing the kids all day- cotton, denim, and sneakers- done in such a laid-back-chic way.

The result is a high-performing, workhorse of a wardrobe that will give you an effortlessly cool look every day of the week.

Plus, for the first time ever, the ENTIRE WARDROBE is from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale so you have the opportunity to save big.

If you’re already a Nordstrom card holder, you can shop the sale now! If not, you’ll get your chance to shop these sales on Friday, July 21st. If you want to get in on these finds you have to hurry, though, items are selling out rapidly and the sale is ending soon.

Classic Tops

Free People Split Back Turtleneck

$68, Now $44.90

This looks so cozy and I love that it’s edgy while being totally covered up. I would wear it with both jeans and yoga pants (win!) and layered with a simple tank like this favorite also on sale!

Hunter Plaid Shirt

$148 Now $99.90

I always have to have at least one quality plaid (I’m from Seattle, are you surprised?) Plus, so great for layering under vests and sweaters… But they aren’t all equal and the drape and material of this one are top notch.

Make + Model Brushed Hacci Sweatshirt

$45 $29.90

I love me a stylish sweatshirt! Because honestly, if I can wear sweats all day and still look good, I’m gonna do it! This looks extra, extra soft and would be a great staple please- especially at this amazing price.

Lush Raw Edge Side Slit Tee

$24 Now $15.90

I’ve come to despise basic straight bottom tees. Why? Because they can make any outfit look dowdy. This twist on the boring basic tee is a great way to up your style points on any outfit you put together.

Pants

PAIGE Hoxton High Waist Ankle Skinny Jeans

$189 Now $99

I’ve been looking for some darker wash jeans to wear to girls’ nights and date nights and with this discount, it’s kinda impossible to resist.

Everyone I know adores Paige jeans and I’m no exception. They are the first luxury brand jeans I started buying regularly because I know they will last and I’ll get more than my money’s worth. Plus, they make me feel great when I wear them and this high-waisted design will be especially slimming!

PAIGE Transcend Hoxton High Waist Undone Hem Skinny Jeans

$199 Now $131.90

Speaking of Paige jeans, this pair is at the absolute top of my wish list. I wear A LOT of jeans (like every day that I’m not wearing yoga pants the 9 months of the year it’s not sunny here). So when I find a pair that gives me a chance to show off a little flair without going crazy, I get excited.

The slanted hems are really cool (I like them so much better than the step hem that is popular right now) and I could see wearing these while volunteering at school as well as for date night making them super versatile.

Note: If you’re looking for a more straight-laced black jean, check out this pair of Instasculpt skinny jeans also on sale- because who doesn’t want to be instascupted?!

Zella Live In Slim Fit Leggings in Grey Graphite

$59 Now $38.90

As I said, I wear almost exclusively jeans and yoga pants in cooler weather and the only yoga pants I wear are Zella. I ALWAYS stock up during the #NSale too because of the great prices.

The thickness of these pants makes me always feel sucked in and sleek without feeling compressed if you know what I mean. I’m excited to add this grey graphite pair to the rotation.

Zella All In Ankle Leggings

$75 Now $49.90

Although I’ve seen the high waist Zella leggings (on sale for $35) featured by a ton of fashion bloggers this year. I still prefer the mid-rise, ankle cut (the high rise just makes my hips and stomach look weird).

I like that these are a subtle upgrade of the basic black tight too.

Sweaters

Free People Electric City Pullover Sweater

$98 Now $64.90

Maybe it’s because I’m a child of the 80s but I just can’t resist a comfy sweater to curl up in front of the fire with a good book in. This one is so pretty and doesn’t look bulky or scratchy, both of which are a total must.

Billabong Snuggle Off the Shoulder Sweater

This is probably the edgiest of my picks. I wouldn’t wear it during my normal day-to-day but I love it for fall or winter date nights. It’s just sexy enough to make it special.

Gibson Bell Sleeve Cozy Fleece Pullover

$59, Now $39.90

The bell sleeves on this top are so feminine and current, who would guess it’s made of fleece?! Did I mention how much I like to be comfortable?

Note: If you like this sleeve, definitely check out this super fun top for nights out – now 40% off!

Layering Pieces

Caslon® Mixed Print Open Front Long Cardigan

$89, Now $49.90

I have picked up a long cardigan with a cool design at each of the last couple sales and I always get so many compliments on them. This is definitely the one for this year.

Love Token Faux Shearling Vest

$120, Now $79.90

I’ve been eyeing faux shearling vests like this since last year’s sale but just couldn’t decide if I was edgy enough to be able to rock one. The knit back of this one makes it feel more accessible to me for some reason and it just looks so ridiculously comfy!

Vince Camuto Contrast Trim Quilted Vest

$118, Now $58.90

Is there anything better than a quilted vest on a crisp and cool fall day? They are so wonderful for staying warm (something I struggle with) and I really love the interesting contrasting colors and gold details on this one. It’s a total stand out amongst the standard quilted vest and it’s 50% off!!

BLANKNYC Chill Pill Cardigan

$88, Now $57.90

This contrasting cardigan is another super warm item that you can wear with anything. It’s also a unique piece that not every other mommy at school pick up will be wearing. Such a good find.

Athleisure Tops

Brunette Fries Before Guys Sweatshirt

$79, Now $51.90

I love a soft sweat shirt for cool evenings, to pair with yoga pants while on the go, or for lounging around in once I’ve changed into my PJs around 6 pm (I’m not the only one who does this am I?).

Also, if you have daughters they NEED to see you casually rocking this, like every day. Let’s make not so subliminal messaging work for us guys!

The North Face Hooded Fleece Pullover

$99, Now $69.90

If your kid has an outside sport, this is the top you must buy! Take it from this Pacific Northwesterner, cozy plush fleece is luxuriously warm – especially when layered under a coat on a cold and windy field. Treat yourself, you won’t be sorry.

Nike Gym Zip Hoodie

$60, Now $36.98

This vintage zip hoodie is so light-weight and soft that it feels like butter. I think I wore it every day for two weeks straight when I first got it. Great for moderate weather as well as layering when it gets cooler.

Zella Drop the Armhole Tank

$39

I have a confession to make; although I love running around in yoga pants and I think the athleisure trend was maybe one of the best things to happen to me, I still have trouble figuring out what to wear with them.

I’m a fan of the half tuck when I wear jeans so I often feel like untucked tees and tanks with my yoga pants look a little off. That’s why I included this tank from Zella even though it’s the only item in the capsule not currently on sale. The tie in the front gives this casual top just enough structure and I love the effect.

Finishing Pieces

UGG Elvia Waterproof Tall Boot

$249.95, $164.90

These waterproof boots look like such work horses – perfect in the snow and slush but also super cute with skinny jeans or black Zellas – all while being ridiculously comfortable – what can’t they do?

Converse Jack Purcell Signature Ox Low Top

$69.95, Now $45.90

I am so smitten with the color of these iconic shoes. Not white but Platinum. They’ll give your outfit the polished look of a white shoe but be a lot easier to keep clean. Sold!

Nike Juvenate SE Sneaker

$95, Now $70

Speaking of iconic shoes, snagging a discounted Nike in basic black, which I can wear with everything while running around all day, is kinda a must for me. The softness of this one is what sold me.

TOMS Deia Block Heel Bootie

$97.95, Now $64.90

Last year I bought a similar pair of gray Toms boots during the sale and I could not believe how comfortable they turned out to be. Having chronic back problems means I only do heels rarely.

I bought my Toms boots with the idea of wearing them to date nights when I intended to be sitting most of the time. Much to my delight, I found they are comfortable enough to walk around in for extended periods of time- whoo hoo!

Sperry Saltwater Spray Wedge Waterproof Rain Boot

$129.95, Now $84.90

For the days when the Ugg boots are overkill, a good pair of Sperry boots are my go tos. I got mine last year during the sale and wore them almost every day during the winter. So00 cute and easy to wear, love ’em!

Halogen® Asymmetrical Zip Boiled Wool Blend Coat

$199, Now $129.90

Last but not least, the most exciting coat I’ve seen in years. Finally, something that I can wear during the day or out at night that’s more than a pea coat! I just love the cut of this coat as well as the colors it comes in – both the grey dove and the black are gorgeous.

Note: A shorter thermal jacket from the North Face like this is great for running around too. I got mine two sales ago and still wear it constantly.

So that’s it!! Whew, what a list! I hope you find something (or many somethings) to love here and that you’re able to act in time to get a great deal!

*Post contains affiliate links.

The post Modern, Minimalist Mom Capsule Wardrobe – Year 3 appeared first on Modern Parents Messy Kids.

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