#and sharing connections with other people

[chanceofwhat]

You can also share something mundane that happened to you in your life recently! You can lie about how recent it was if you’d like!

If you have a pet, anything about the pet is always good. “I got my dog a new toy the other day, and she absolutely loves it, it’s the cutest thing.” “Yesterday, my cat came up and drank out of my water cup right in front of me, like I wasn’t even there!” “My friend got this pet hamster recently, he’s so cute!”

Otherwise, TV is a good choice. Preferably something popular, but it can be something niche as long as you stay vague about it and are careful not to be in explaining mode for too long. You can even say you rewatched something that you know everyone likes! “Have you been watching the new season of Squid Game?” “I rewatched Home Alone this past Christmas— such a good movie!” “I’ve been rewatching a lot of marvel movies recently. Have you seen many of those?” These also tend to transition well into questions, such as “What have you been watching?” “What’s your favorite show?” “What’s your favorite Christmas movie?”

Just make a statement about the weather, “It was very windy this morning.” “It’s colder today than it was yesterday.” “It’s supposed to storm later this week.” “It’s sunny right now.” Or the day of the week (Monday is bad, Friday is good, weekend is best, compare other days to these) “Ugh, it’s Monday.” “It’s almost Friday!” Etc. Statements like this encourage others, especially neurotypicals, to comment/share their opinions.

Usually, with those, they’ll match your tone, or if you’re neutral, they’ll give you an easily predictable tone cue to follow. Sometimes they won’t, or they’ll even disagree with you. “I like the cold!” “I don’t mind the wind.” “Not as sunny as I’d like it to be.” “Actually, for a Monday, my day’s been pretty good so far.” Etc. This is okay and normal. It doesn’t mean they’re unhappy with you, it’s not a negative reaction, it just adds dynamic to the conversation. You can either concede and ‘realize’ that they’re right (“Yea, wind isn’t so bad.” Or “Actually, my day’s been alright too!”) or you can continue to disagree (“I don’t do well in the cold.” Or “That’s good for you, ‘cause my day’s been dreary.”) Either of these are correct.

But in the end, a generic question is often best. “Did you do anything fun this weekend/lately?” Or “Got any fun plans this week/weekend?” That allows them to talk about whatever they want to talk about, often enabling them to launch into a story. They want to tell their story. Be interested, nod, match their tone, they’re not looking/listening to you very intently during their story, they just want to tell it to someone. They’ll be ecstatic if you match their tone correctly at the climax.

Small talk is a form of connection. They’re making sounds at you and they want you to reciprocate. The words themselves aren’t the important part. I know, it’s a strange dance, but the neurotypicals really appreciate it, and it’s vital if you want to form and keep base-level connections with people. Not everybody wants to engage with you philosophically, but that doesn’t mean they don’t want to be your cordial work-friend, etc. You can do it! I believe in you!

I'm trying to figure out a good way to say "you really should actually learn the basics of small talk" with sounding like I'm biased against autistic people.

[erosastro]

Your future spouse/partner: Pick a pile Tarot reading

*************

Pile one - Amethyst

Who are they?

This seems like someone who likes to be in control. There’s certain structure and order to things that they like to maintain and anything that happens that they didn’t anticipate they tend to panic but they also don’t like to show it. This need for control and power and staying stuck in a very masculine energy is from a need to work on their self-esteem. I think deep down they know they don’t “fit in” which is what makes them overcompensate in other areas of their life. They could mirror your energy a lot as well. Deep down they’re emotional beings and all they need is love and comfort, though again they might not say it out loud. they’re sensitive too but cover it up with a hard exterior. They may not like to show their emotions easily to others. They’re probably very creative and intelligent as well, though they may be hesitant to take any risks. They also value their solo time or are in desperate need for it. They probably have a lot to unleash creatively and may be working on it. Their feminine energy is begging to be released, to create some sort of balance and again they may be working on that right now. They’re very protective over people they love and might share a very close relationship with their mother or a maternal figure in their lives. In a relationship they’re receptive and nurturing and there’s a quiet tenderness to them that draws people in.

* Capricorn, Pisces and Virgo or Taurus might be significant placements

What the relationship will be like?

I think that this person might be used to surface level relationships because they’re so scared of opening up but with you there’s a sense of familiarity and it forces them the reckon with their old ways of thinking and communicating and overall how they go about their relationships. There might be some time for them to open up and share their feelings candidly with you but once they do, the flow of communication between you two will be loving and understanding. You’ll slowly bring them out of their shell. You’ll bring about a sense of balance in their lives and they probably will be able to show a lot more of their creative and sensitive side to you eventually because of the trust that’s been built between you two. They might initially want something casual or not that serious at first but because of the connection they feel with you, they’re going to be forced to face things they’ve been pushing away for a long time. It’s very tender and sweet between you two and your love language might be words of affirmation or acts of service

Pile two - Rose Quartz

Who are they?

They’re hard workers and very loyal but there’s a playful and passionate side to them as well. They’re the type of person that everyone is happy to be around and there’s a sense of childlike wonder to them that makes them intriguing. They could lowkey be players but they are very loyal once they’re in a relationship. They love to have fun and they could also be weird in an endearing way. I heard “match my freak” lol. They could be sensitive to other people’s energies and they don’t like seeing or making other people upset. They’re unconventional in a lot of ways. They’re intelligent and open minded though they could be moody sometimes. Especially if they get burnt out from work. They don’t get pissed off easily but once they do … they could be quite harsh with their words especially. The energy is delightful and quirky. They could be geeky as well.

* Gemini, Aries, Sagittarius and Libra energy coming through strongly.

What the relationship will be like?

Okay firstly words of affirmation might be a bit love language between the two of you. They value you. They could put you on a bit of a pedestal actually, lol. They’re very thoughtful as well and I heard that things are easy between you two right off the bat. Like conversations flow easily and banter. They’re soooo loving. Like they love to express their love to you and they find you hella attractive. They may think you’re out of their league. I’m picturing Leonard and penny from big bang theory. That might be a show you both love as well. You love to make each other laugh and the intimacy between you is otherworldly. They notice the small things about you and you both value each other. They may the first ones to say “I love you”

Pile three - opalite

Who are they?

They’re fiercely loyal and protective and they’ve been through a lot in the past. Lots of heartbreak that may have caused a sense of insecurity within them. But they love like no other. They’re protective and trustworthy and are big on building trust in a relationship first, no matter what kind of relationship it is. I sense that they might be spiritual as well.hard to grasp too much about them so they might be mysterious too. Their souls are beautiful and they might have gone through a major spiritual transformation or awakening recently. They might be working on healing their heart chakra due to the trauma from previous relationships that they’ve faced. But I get such a strong energy from them either way. Like when they love someone they love HARD.

*Leo energy is super strong in this reading as well as Libra and Gemini

What the relationship is like?

There’s so much of Leo energy here id be surprised if they didn’t have Leo placements of fifth house placements. This relationship is sooo supportive. You guys are each others biggest cheerleaders. I said “aww” so many times for this part of the reading. You make each other super happy and you’re both willing to work hard on the relationship. Like there’s mutual effort here and understanding. You might have manifested this person into your life. I heard “long time coming”. You may already feel this persons energy strongly. You have a way of helping each other through any anxieties or doubts easily. For some of you** there could be babies that come in very early and the relationship might move quite quickly. But it’s because there’s like no doubt about each at all. You both know you’re each others person right off the bat.

Pile four - Aquamarine

Who are they?

They’re very blunt lol. But they have a way with words. They’re extremely charming and intelligent. And they value family a lot. They’re highly intuitive too. They’re very self assured and they’re loyal too, to everyone they love. They’re very direct to people about how they feel and they may come across strange to some. But there’s still something super intriguing about them because their energy is very high vibrational. They might not like beating around the bush and are good at observing others. I feel like it would be hard to lie to this person too. Like they immediately pick up that you’re speaking shit lol. They’re very spiritual and creative. They could be big on being very healthy and like fitness freaks too. They’re the types to love studying even if they don’t always need it. They love learning about new things all the time and the way to their heart is probably through their minds first. They could have psychic abilities as well and can be hypersensitive. They’re very sure about what they want in their lives too.

Strong Gemini, Aquarius, Libra and Leo

What is the relationship like?

Pile four this might be your divine counterpart. The energy is very strong and this relationship is extremely important in your lives. They might have taken a while to come into your life and vice versa but patience is virtue! And trust me it’ll be worth it. They feel very lucky to have you in their life. They love you so unconditionally and you guys get a long like a house on fire. There’s beautiful energy flow between you two and you’re very supportive of each other. You accept each other wholeheartedly and I hear that it’s not something you’re used to. You might have been in very difficult relationships before. You two have a lot in common and can relate to each other in a lot of different ways. They expose you to new ways of loving and spirituality and sexuality. It might be scary to go into this relationship heart first but something about them makes both of you embrace the unfamiliar. Beautiful energy again. Air signs coming through strongly again.

[esotericalchemist]

𝟕𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄 - 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬: 𝐆𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐔𝐩 𝐘𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 & 𝐏𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩𝐬 ˚ʚ♡ɞ˚

Masterlist this series - TikTok (Matrix of Destiny) - Masterlist - YouTube (subliminals)

This is the seventh post in a 12-part series dedicated to helping you glow up using the wisdom of astrology. Each post delves into one of the astrological houses, exploring its influence on key areas of your life and offering insights to help you thrive.

In this post, we’re focusing on the seventh house—the house of partnerships, relationships, and collaborations. This house represents how you connect with others on a one-to-one level, from romantic bonds to business alliances and creative collaborations. Glowing up your seventh house means cultivating relationships that inspire growth, harmony, and balance, while also embracing the unique energy of the sign ruling this house to create meaningful and empowering connections.

𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐄𝐒 𝟕𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄

The seventh house governs partnerships, relationships, and collaborations. With Aries ruling this house, your approach to these themes is bold, dynamic, and often assertive. Ruled by Mars, Aries in the seventh house brings a fiery energy to your romantic and collaborative pursuits, emphasizing independence, passion, and a desire for excitement in your connections. Your glow-up involves cultivating relationships that are both empowering and balanced, collaborating with others while maintaining your individuality, and channeling Aries’ fearless energy into meaningful and harmonious partnerships.

Romantic Relationships: Passionate and Empowered Love

Aries in the seventh house makes you a dynamic and passionate partner. You’re drawn to relationships that feel exciting and energizing, often seeking partners who challenge and inspire you. Your fearless approach to love means you’re not afraid to take the lead or pursue someone who catches your interest.

To glow up your romantic life, focus on balancing your desire for independence with emotional vulnerability. While you thrive in relationships that allow you to be your bold self, opening up emotionally can deepen your connections and create lasting bonds.

Embrace spontaneous and adventurous date ideas that match Aries energy—think hiking, attending live events, or trying an exhilarating activity together. Prioritize partners who respect your individuality while also bringing balance and harmony to the relationship.

Collaborations: Dynamic and Trailblazing Partnerships

Aries in the seventh house brings a strong sense of initiative to your collaborative efforts. You naturally take charge in partnerships, often leading with confidence and a clear vision. This makes you an excellent partner in projects that require action, innovation, and bold decision-making.

Your glow-up involves learning to collaborate in a way that values the input and perspectives of others. While your leadership skills are a strength, fostering equality and open communication in your partnerships ensures smoother and more harmonious dynamics.

Seek collaborators who share your enthusiasm and drive but can also balance your fiery energy with a calm and steady approach. Together, you can create powerful and impactful results.

Attracting Harmonious Connections: Balancing Independence and Teamwork

Aries in the seventh house attracts connections that are dynamic and stimulating. You’re drawn to people who match your energy and aren’t afraid to speak their minds, creating relationships that are vibrant and full of mutual growth.

To glow up your ability to attract harmonious connections, focus on balancing your assertiveness with receptivity. Practice active listening and show appreciation for the unique qualities others bring to the table. By creating space for mutual respect and understanding, you can build partnerships that feel both exciting and supportive.

Embrace Aries’ natural magnetism by expressing your authentic self unapologetically. Your confidence and passion are what draw people to you, so don’t shy away from letting your true colors shine.

𝐓𝐀𝐔𝐑𝐔𝐒 𝟕𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄

The seventh house governs partnerships, relationships, and collaborations. With Taurus ruling this house, your approach to these themes is steady, loyal, and deeply rooted in trust and stability. Ruled by Venus, Taurus in the seventh house brings a sensual, grounded energy to your romantic and collaborative pursuits, emphasizing commitment, harmony, and a shared appreciation for life’s pleasures. Your glow-up involves cultivating relationships built on mutual respect and emotional security, collaborating with others in ways that foster stability and growth, and attracting connections that feel both beautiful and enduring.

Romantic Relationships: Loyal and Grounded Love

Taurus in the seventh house makes you a devoted and steadfast partner. You’re drawn to relationships that feel secure and long-lasting, often prioritizing loyalty, trust, and shared values in your romantic connections. Your Venusian charm and appreciation for beauty make you naturally magnetic, attracting partners who value stability and comfort.

To glow up your romantic life, focus on nurturing both emotional and physical intimacy. Create moments of connection that emphasize quality time, whether it’s through shared meals, relaxing evenings together, or thoughtful gestures that show your appreciation.

While you thrive in stable relationships, avoid the temptation to hold onto connections out of fear of change. Embrace growth within your partnerships by fostering open communication and a willingness to evolve together.

Collaborations: Steady and Harmonious Partnerships

Taurus in the seventh house brings a patient and reliable energy to your collaborations. You excel in partnerships that prioritize consistency, practicality, and a shared vision for long-term success. Your ability to remain calm and grounded makes you a trusted ally in group efforts, particularly in projects that require sustained effort.

Your glow-up involves ensuring your collaborations feel balanced and mutually beneficial. While your steady nature is a strength, be mindful of avoiding partnerships that feel one-sided or stagnant. Seek collaborators who share your commitment and contribute equally to the partnership’s success.

Infuse creativity and beauty into your collaborative projects—whether it’s designing an aesthetically pleasing workspace, brainstorming innovative ideas, or simply bringing a sense of calm to the team dynamic.

Attracting Harmonious Connections: Stable and Enriching Relationships

Taurus in the seventh house attracts connections that are grounded, supportive, and focused on creating a shared sense of security. You’re drawn to people who value authenticity and who bring a sense of calm and dependability to your life.

To glow up your ability to attract harmonious connections, focus on cultivating your inner sense of worth and stability. When you feel confident and secure within yourself, you naturally draw people who resonate with your energy.

Express your Venusian charm by embracing your natural beauty and sense of style. Surround yourself with environments that reflect your taste and values, as this helps you attract connections that align with your energy.

𝐆𝐄𝐌𝐈𝐍𝐈 𝟕𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄

The seventh house governs partnerships, relationships, and collaborations. With Gemini ruling this house, your approach to these themes is lively, communicative, and mentally stimulating. Ruled by Mercury, Gemini in the seventh house brings a dynamic and curious energy to your romantic and collaborative pursuits, emphasizing the importance of intellectual connection, adaptability, and shared ideas. Your glow-up involves cultivating relationships that engage your mind, collaborating in ways that spark creativity, and attracting connections that bring variety, fun, and growth into your life.

Romantic Relationships: Playful and Communicative Love

Gemini in the seventh house makes you a witty and engaging partner who thrives on lively and stimulating relationships. You’re drawn to romantic connections where communication flows effortlessly, and you value partners who can keep up with your sharp mind and playful energy.

To glow up your romantic life, focus on deepening emotional intimacy alongside intellectual connection. While you love the thrill of conversation and shared activities, creating moments of vulnerability and authenticity will strengthen your bonds.

Plan dates that spark curiosity and creativity—explore museums, attend workshops, or simply spend time discussing fascinating topics. Embrace your natural charm and humor, but also allow yourself to share your deeper thoughts and feelings to foster a well-rounded connection.

Collaborations: Dynamic and Innovative Partnerships

Gemini in the seventh house brings a natural talent for collaboration through communication and adaptability. You excel in partnerships that involve brainstorming, problem-solving, and the exchange of ideas, often thriving in dynamic environments where creativity and innovation are encouraged.

Your glow-up involves ensuring your collaborations are both exciting and productive. While you enjoy variety, focus on projects that align with your long-term goals and avoid spreading yourself too thin. Seek collaborators who inspire you with fresh perspectives and complement your versatile approach.

Incorporate technology, media, or networking into your collaborative efforts. Gemini thrives in roles that involve writing, teaching, or connecting people, so lean into opportunities that leverage these strengths.

Attracting Harmonious Connections: Stimulating and Versatile Relationships

Gemini in the seventh house attracts connections that are lighthearted, dynamic, and intellectually engaging. You’re drawn to people who bring variety and excitement into your life, often forming relationships that encourage learning and growth.

To glow up your ability to attract harmonious connections, focus on expressing your authentic self with confidence and clarity. Your natural wit and conversational skills are magnetic, but be mindful of balancing lighthearted banter with genuine connection.

Create a social environment that reflects your vibrant personality, whether it’s hosting events, joining clubs, or participating in activities that encourage communication and networking. Surround yourself with people who value your unique perspective and adaptability.

𝐂𝐀𝐍𝐂𝐄𝐑 𝟕𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄

The seventh house governs partnerships, relationships, and collaborations. With Cancer ruling this house, your approach to these themes is deeply emotional, nurturing, and intuitive. Ruled by the Moon, Cancer in the seventh house brings a caring and protective energy to your romantic and collaborative pursuits, emphasizing emotional security, mutual support, and heartfelt connections. Your glow-up involves cultivating relationships that nourish your soul, collaborating in ways that foster trust and empathy, and attracting connections that feel both emotionally fulfilling and harmonious.

Romantic Relationships: Nurturing and Emotionally Deep Love

Cancer in the seventh house makes you a deeply caring and devoted partner. You’re drawn to relationships that feel emotionally safe and meaningful, often seeking partners who share your desire for intimacy, trust, and a sense of belonging. Your intuition allows you to connect on a deep level, making your relationships profoundly fulfilling.

To glow up your romantic life, focus on creating a balance between giving and receiving. While your nurturing nature is a strength, ensure that your relationships are mutually supportive, allowing you to feel cared for as much as you care for others.

Plan dates that emphasize connection and comfort—think cozy dinners at home, meaningful conversations, or activities that reflect shared memories or traditions. Lean into your natural emotional depth, and don’t shy away from expressing your needs and feelings openly to foster greater intimacy.

Collaborations: Compassionate and Supportive Partnerships

Cancer in the seventh house brings a nurturing and empathetic energy to your collaborations. You excel in partnerships that require emotional intelligence, care, and a focus on creating a supportive environment. Your ability to sense others’ needs makes you an invaluable partner in group efforts.

Your glow-up involves ensuring your collaborations are balanced and respectful. While you thrive in roles where you can nurture and uplift others, it’s essential to set boundaries and avoid overextending yourself. Seek collaborators who appreciate your caring nature and contribute equally to the partnership’s success.

Focus on projects that resonate with your values and allow you to make a meaningful impact. Cancer energy excels in areas related to caregiving, community building, or creating a sense of home and security.

Attracting Harmonious Connections: Emotionally Fulfilling Relationships

Cancer in the seventh house attracts connections that are supportive, intuitive, and deeply emotional. You’re drawn to people who value vulnerability and authenticity, often forming relationships that feel comforting and nurturing.

To glow up your ability to attract harmonious connections, focus on cultivating emotional resilience and self-awareness. When you feel secure within yourself, you naturally draw people who mirror your emotional strength and compassion.

Create spaces that reflect your warmth and care, whether it’s hosting gatherings that foster genuine connection or simply maintaining a welcoming presence in your social interactions. Embrace your natural ability to make others feel at ease, and allow yourself to receive the same care in return.

𝐋𝐄𝐎 𝟕𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄

The seventh house governs partnerships, relationships, and collaborations. With Leo ruling this house, your approach to these themes is bold, warm, and expressive. Ruled by the Sun, Leo in the seventh house brings a radiant and charismatic energy to your romantic and collaborative pursuits, emphasizing loyalty, mutual admiration, and a shared sense of purpose. Your glow-up involves cultivating relationships that empower you to shine, collaborating in ways that inspire creativity and leadership, and attracting connections that are both passionate and deeply fulfilling.

Romantic Relationships: Passionate and Heart-Centered Love

Leo in the seventh house makes you a vibrant and generous partner. You’re drawn to relationships that feel grand, romantic, and full of admiration, often seeking partners who uplift and celebrate your individuality. You thrive in connections where loyalty, passion, and mutual support are the foundation.

To glow up your romantic life, focus on balancing your desire for recognition with genuine emotional connection. While you love to be adored, building a relationship rooted in mutual respect and shared joy will bring deeper satisfaction.

Plan dates that feel special and celebratory—think candlelit dinners, theater outings, or spontaneous adventures that highlight your shared passions. Let your natural charm and warmth shine while also showing appreciation for your partner’s unique qualities.

Collaborations: Creative and Inspiring Partnerships

Leo in the seventh house brings a natural talent for leadership and creativity to your collaborations. You excel in partnerships where you can take the lead, inspire others, and work toward a vision that feels exciting and impactful. Your confidence and charisma make you a magnet for collaborators who appreciate your energy and enthusiasm.

Your glow-up involves ensuring your collaborations are balanced and inclusive. While your leadership skills are a strength, fostering a spirit of teamwork and valuing others’ contributions will enhance the success of your partnerships. Seek collaborators who share your passion and ambition but also bring complementary strengths to the table.

Focus on projects that allow you to express your creativity and shine, whether it’s leading a community initiative, starting a joint venture, or co-creating something artistic or innovative.

Attracting Harmonious Connections: Loyal and Empowering Relationships

Leo in the seventh house attracts connections that are vibrant, supportive, and full of admiration. You’re drawn to people who match your energy and bring positivity, inspiration, and fun into your life.

To glow up your ability to attract harmonious connections, focus on cultivating self-confidence and authenticity. When you fully embrace your inner light, you naturally draw people who respect and celebrate you.

Create environments that reflect your personality and love for beauty, whether through hosting social events, participating in creative communities, or simply bringing your warmth to group interactions. Be open to receiving the same generosity and loyalty you offer to others.

𝐕𝐈𝐑𝐆𝐎 𝟕𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄

The seventh house governs partnerships, relationships, and collaborations. With Virgo ruling this house, your approach to these themes is practical, thoughtful, and service-oriented. Ruled by Mercury, Virgo in the seventh house brings a meticulous and grounded energy to your romantic and collaborative pursuits, emphasizing the importance of shared goals, mutual support, and continual growth. Your glow-up involves cultivating relationships built on trust and effort, collaborating in ways that bring efficiency and harmony, and attracting connections that inspire you to grow and refine yourself.

Romantic Relationships: Grounded and Supportive Love

Virgo in the seventh house makes you a dedicated and conscientious partner. You’re drawn to relationships where mutual respect, trust, and shared values create a strong foundation. You approach love with thoughtfulness, often focusing on ways to support your partner and help the relationship grow.

To glow up your romantic life, focus on balancing your desire to “fix” or perfect things with unconditional acceptance. While your ability to notice details is a strength, avoid being overly critical of yourself or your partner. Celebrate the small, meaningful moments that build intimacy and connection.

Plan dates that align with Virgo energy’s love for practicality and refinement—such as cooking a meal together, taking a workshop, or enjoying nature on a peaceful hike. Prioritize partners who value effort and are equally invested in building a strong, supportive bond.

Collaborations: Detail-Oriented and Efficient Partnerships

Virgo in the seventh house brings a natural talent for organization and problem-solving to your collaborations. You excel in partnerships that require focus, precision, and teamwork, often thriving in roles where you can contribute your analytical skills and dedication to improvement.

Your glow-up involves ensuring your collaborations are not only productive but also balanced and harmonious. While your ability to perfect systems is invaluable, allow room for flexibility and creativity in the partnership. Seek collaborators who appreciate your thoroughness and share your commitment to quality work.

Focus on projects that align with your values and offer opportunities for growth and learning. Whether you’re organizing a community initiative or fine-tuning a shared vision with a business partner, your attention to detail ensures the success of your endeavors.

Attracting Harmonious Connections: Thoughtful and Uplifting Relationships

Virgo in the seventh house attracts connections that are dependable, grounded, and growth-focused. You’re drawn to people who share your dedication to self-improvement and who value your practical yet caring nature.

To glow up your ability to attract harmonious connections, focus on cultivating self-acceptance and appreciating your unique qualities. When you embrace your strengths and let go of perfectionism, you naturally draw people who resonate with your authenticity.

Express your thoughtful nature by offering small acts of kindness or practical help to those around you. Your attention to detail and care for others is a magnet for creating meaningful and lasting connections.

𝐋𝐈𝐁𝐑𝐀 𝟕𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄

The seventh house is Libra’s natural domain, governing partnerships, relationships, and collaborations. With Libra ruling this house, your approach to these themes is graceful, harmonious, and relationship-focused. Ruled by Venus, Libra in the seventh house brings a diplomatic and balanced energy to your romantic and collaborative pursuits, emphasizing mutual respect, shared beauty, and the art of connection. Your glow-up involves cultivating relationships that balance equality and romance, collaborating in ways that foster cooperation and creativity, and attracting connections that inspire harmony and elevate your life.

Romantic Relationships: Balanced and Romantic Love

Libra in the seventh house makes you a natural partner who thrives on creating harmony and beauty in relationships. You’re drawn to connections that are elegant, supportive, and filled with mutual admiration, often prioritizing balance and shared experiences in your love life.

To glow up your romantic life, focus on balancing your desire to please others with your own needs and desires. While you excel at nurturing harmony, ensure that your relationships reflect equality and allow both partners to shine.

Plan dates that celebrate beauty and connection—like attending art exhibits, enjoying candlelit dinners, or taking scenic walks. Lean into your Venusian charm by expressing your appreciation for your partner and creating moments of romance that feel authentic and meaningful.

Collaborations: Diplomatic and Creative Partnerships

Libra in the seventh house brings a talent for diplomacy and collaboration to your partnerships. You excel in roles that require cooperation, creative problem-solving, and bringing people together toward a common goal. Your ability to mediate and maintain balance makes you an invaluable partner in group efforts.

Your glow-up involves ensuring your collaborations are both fair and inspiring. While your natural diplomacy fosters harmony, don’t hesitate to assert your own ideas and perspectives when needed. Seek collaborators who value your creative input and share your commitment to achieving mutual success.

Focus on projects that align with your love for beauty, balance, and connection—whether it’s organizing an event, launching a creative venture, or building something that inspires and uplifts others.

Attracting Harmonious Connections: Equal and Uplifting Relationships

Libra in the seventh house attracts connections that are harmonious, supportive, and rooted in mutual respect. You’re drawn to people who share your appreciation for beauty, balance, and meaningful collaboration, often forming relationships that inspire personal and mutual growth.

To glow up your ability to attract harmonious connections, focus on cultivating inner balance and self-love. When you embody the qualities of harmony and grace that you seek in others, you naturally attract relationships that reflect those ideals.

Create environments that encourage connection and beauty, whether it’s through hosting gatherings, joining creative communities, or simply maintaining a warm and welcoming presence. Celebrate your Venus-ruled charm by allowing your authenticity to shine in all your interactions.

𝐒𝐂𝐎𝐑𝐏𝐈𝐎 𝟕𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄

The seventh house governs partnerships, relationships, and collaborations. With Scorpio ruling this house, your approach to these themes is intense, transformative, and deeply emotional. Ruled by Mars and Pluto, Scorpio in the seventh house brings a powerful and magnetic energy to your romantic and collaborative pursuits, emphasizing passion, loyalty, and profound connection. Your glow-up involves cultivating relationships that are transformative and empowering, collaborating in ways that bring depth and focus, and attracting connections that challenge and inspire your growth.

Romantic Relationships: Passionate and Transformative Love

Scorpio in the seventh house makes you a deeply devoted and intense partner. You’re drawn to relationships that feel magnetic and life-changing, often seeking connections that go beyond the surface and into the realm of profound emotional intimacy.

To glow up your romantic life, focus on building trust and embracing vulnerability. While your passion and loyalty are unparalleled, opening your heart fully can create the deep and transformative bond you crave.

Plan dates that reflect Scorpio’s love for intimacy and mystery—such as a quiet evening under the stars, exploring hidden gems in your city, or engaging in meaningful conversations about your shared dreams and desires. Prioritize partners who respect your need for emotional depth and are equally invested in building a strong, lasting connection.

Collaborations: Focused and Transformative Partnerships

Scorpio in the seventh house brings an intense and transformative energy to your collaborations. You excel in partnerships that require focus, determination, and a shared vision for meaningful change. Your ability to dive deep into projects and bring clarity to complex situations makes you an invaluable partner in challenging or high-stakes endeavors.

Your glow-up involves ensuring your collaborations are based on mutual trust and respect. While your intensity drives success, avoid taking on too much control or becoming overly protective of your ideas. Seek collaborators who share your commitment to excellence and are willing to engage with your transformative approach.

Focus on projects that align with Scorpio’s passion for change and empowerment—such as launching a business, organizing impactful initiatives, or working on artistic or research-oriented ventures that inspire growth and evolution.

Attracting Harmonious Connections: Empowering and Profound Relationships

Scorpio in the seventh house attracts connections that are deeply emotional, empowering, and transformative. You’re drawn to people who challenge you to grow, mirror your intensity, and share your desire for authenticity and depth.

To glow up your ability to attract harmonious connections, focus on cultivating self-awareness and emotional balance. When you channel your intensity in a way that feels empowering rather than overwhelming, you naturally draw people who align with your vision and values.

Express your magnetic nature by embracing your authenticity and sharing your passions openly. Surround yourself with people who appreciate your depth and loyalty, and create connections that bring out the best in you.

𝐒𝐀𝐆𝐈𝐓𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐔𝐒 𝟕𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄

The seventh house governs partnerships, relationships, and collaborations. With Sagittarius ruling this house, your approach to these themes is adventurous, optimistic, and growth-oriented. Ruled by Jupiter, Sagittarius in the seventh house brings an expansive and free-spirited energy to your romantic and collaborative pursuits, emphasizing a love for exploration, shared philosophies, and personal growth within partnerships. Your glow-up involves cultivating relationships that inspire and expand your horizons, collaborating in ways that encourage innovation and learning, and attracting connections that feel dynamic and uplifting.

Romantic Relationships: Adventurous and Inspiring Love

Sagittarius in the seventh house makes you a partner who thrives on excitement and intellectual connection. You’re drawn to relationships that are fun, inspiring, and full of shared adventures. Partners who challenge your ideas and encourage exploration are particularly magnetic to you.

To glow up your romantic life, focus on balancing your desire for freedom with emotional connection. While you value independence, creating space for vulnerability and grounding your relationships can make them more meaningful and fulfilling.

Plan dates that spark curiosity and exploration—think road trips, trying exotic cuisines, or attending philosophical or cultural events together. Embrace partners who share your zest for life and are open to growing alongside you, both as individuals and as a couple.

Collaborations: Innovative and Visionary Partnerships

Sagittarius in the seventh house brings a dynamic and forward-thinking energy to your collaborations. You excel in partnerships that prioritize creativity, big ideas, and long-term goals, often thriving in environments where growth and learning are encouraged.

Your glow-up involves ensuring your collaborations are grounded and productive. While your enthusiasm for new ideas is a strength, focusing on actionable plans and clear communication will enhance the success of your partnerships. Seek collaborators who share your vision and bring complementary skills to the table.

Focus on projects that align with Sagittarius’ love for expansion and impact, such as educational initiatives, travel-related ventures, or innovative approaches to social change. Your ability to inspire others with your optimism and big-picture thinking makes you a valuable partner in any endeavor.

Attracting Harmonious Connections: Expansive and Uplifting Relationships

Sagittarius in the seventh house attracts connections that are adventurous, intellectually stimulating, and growth-focused. You’re drawn to people who inspire you to think bigger, explore more, and embrace life with optimism and enthusiasm.

To glow up your ability to attract harmonious connections, focus on cultivating your sense of inner freedom and purpose. When you embrace your own growth journey, you naturally draw people who align with your expansive mindset.

Express your adventurous nature by engaging in activities that reflect your love for exploration and learning, whether through travel, attending workshops, or participating in community events. Surround yourself with people who share your curiosity and encourage your dreams.

𝐂𝐀𝐏𝐑𝐈𝐂𝐎𝐑𝐍 𝟕𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄

The seventh house governs partnerships, relationships, and collaborations. With Capricorn ruling this house, your approach to these themes is grounded, ambitious, and responsibility-driven. Ruled by Saturn, Capricorn in the seventh house brings a practical and determined energy to your romantic and collaborative pursuits, emphasizing loyalty, stability, and shared long-term goals. Your glow-up involves cultivating relationships that are built on trust and commitment, collaborating in ways that prioritize structure and progress, and attracting connections that reflect your values and aspirations.

Romantic Relationships: Stable and Ambitious Love

Capricorn in the seventh house makes you a partner who values loyalty, dependability, and long-term commitment. You’re drawn to relationships that feel purposeful and aligned with your life goals, often seeking partners who share your ambition and work ethic.

To glow up your romantic life, focus on balancing your practical approach to love with emotional vulnerability. While you thrive in stable connections, allowing room for spontaneity and open communication can deepen your emotional bond.

Plan dates that align with Capricorn’s grounded energy—such as goal-setting together, visiting meaningful landmarks, or enjoying a quiet evening reflecting on shared achievements. Prioritize partners who value growth and stability as much as you do, creating a foundation for a relationship that thrives over time.

Collaborations: Structured and Goal-Oriented Partnerships

Capricorn in the seventh house brings a strong sense of discipline and focus to your collaborations. You excel in partnerships that involve shared goals, strategic planning, and long-term results, often thriving in roles where you can take responsibility and lead by example.

Your glow-up involves ensuring your collaborations are both efficient and inspiring. While your commitment to structure is a strength, being open to innovation and flexibility can enhance the creative potential of your partnerships. Seek collaborators who complement your organized approach with fresh perspectives.

Focus on projects that align with Capricorn’s love for achievement and legacy—such as launching a business, creating meaningful structures, or working toward a community initiative that requires dedication and foresight.

Attracting Harmonious Connections: Loyal and Purposeful Relationships

Capricorn in the seventh house attracts connections that are stable, supportive, and built on mutual respect. You’re drawn to people who value consistency and who bring a sense of dependability and growth into your life.

To glow up your ability to attract harmonious connections, focus on cultivating self-confidence and clarity about your long-term desires. When you embrace your inner strength and purpose, you naturally draw people who align with your vision.

Express your values by participating in activities that reflect your ambition and discipline, whether through professional networking, mentorship, or goal-oriented social gatherings. Surround yourself with individuals who inspire you to reach higher while offering the same encouragement in return.

𝐀𝐐𝐔𝐀𝐑𝐈𝐔𝐒 𝟕𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄

The seventh house governs partnerships, relationships, and collaborations. With Aquarius ruling this house, your approach to these themes is unconventional, innovative, and future-focused. Ruled by Saturn and Uranus, Aquarius in the seventh house brings a visionary and progressive energy to your romantic and collaborative pursuits, emphasizing individuality, intellectual connection, and shared ideals. Your glow-up involves cultivating relationships that embrace freedom and authenticity, collaborating in ways that foster innovation and inclusivity, and attracting connections that inspire growth and transformation.

Romantic Relationships: Authentic and Progressive Love

Aquarius in the seventh house makes you a partner who values individuality and intellectual connection. You’re drawn to relationships that feel unconventional and forward-thinking, often seeking partners who share your ideals and are open to exploring new ways of relating.

To glow up your romantic life, focus on balancing your need for independence with emotional intimacy. While you value freedom in relationships, creating space for vulnerability and genuine connection can deepen your bonds.

Plan dates that reflect Aquarius’ love for exploration and creativity—think stargazing, attending a tech or art exhibit, or engaging in meaningful discussions about shared interests. Prioritize partners who respect your individuality and challenge you to grow intellectually and emotionally.

Collaborations: Innovative and Inclusive Partnerships

Aquarius in the seventh house brings a unique and visionary energy to your collaborations. You excel in partnerships that encourage innovation, teamwork, and thinking outside the box, often thriving in environments that promote inclusivity and progress.

Your glow-up involves ensuring your collaborations are both forward-thinking and grounded. While your ability to envision new possibilities is a strength, working with collaborators who bring focus and practical execution can help you achieve meaningful results.

Focus on projects that align with Aquarius’ passion for social change and innovation—such as developing new technologies, working on humanitarian initiatives, or fostering community-driven solutions. Your ability to inspire and unify diverse groups makes you a powerful force for collaboration.

Attracting Harmonious Connections: Inspiring and Free-Spirited Relationships

Aquarius in the seventh house attracts connections that are inspiring, dynamic, and rooted in shared values. You’re drawn to people who celebrate individuality and who challenge traditional norms in favor of more expansive and creative ways of connecting.

To glow up your ability to attract harmonious connections, focus on embracing your authentic self. When you fully embody your unique qualities, you naturally draw people who align with your vision and celebrate your individuality.

Create opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals through networking, joining groups that reflect your passions, or engaging in intellectual or creative discussions. Surround yourself with people who inspire innovation and who value both freedom and connection.

𝐏𝐈𝐒𝐂𝐄𝐒 𝟕𝐓𝐇 𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐒𝐄

The seventh house governs partnerships, relationships, and collaborations. With Pisces ruling this house, your approach to these themes is intuitive, compassionate, and spiritually connected. Ruled by Jupiter and Neptune, Pisces in the seventh house brings a dreamy and empathetic energy to your romantic and collaborative pursuits, emphasizing emotional depth, unconditional love, and a sense of oneness. Your glow-up involves cultivating relationships that are nurturing and soulful, collaborating in ways that inspire creativity and empathy, and attracting connections that feel deeply meaningful and harmonious.

Romantic Relationships: Soulful and Compassionate Love

Pisces in the seventh house makes you a romantic partner who craves emotional connection and spiritual alignment. You’re drawn to relationships that feel transcendent, where you and your partner share a deep sense of understanding, love, and emotional intimacy.

To glow up your romantic life, focus on setting healthy boundaries while embracing the beauty of unconditional love. While your ability to empathize is a strength, ensuring that your relationships are balanced and mutually supportive will enhance their depth and harmony.

Plan dates that reflect Pisces’ love for romance and creativity—such as enjoying live music, watching films that evoke emotion, or simply spending quiet moments together in nature. Seek partners who value your sensitivity and share your passion for meaningful, soulful connections.

Collaborations: Compassionate and Creative Partnerships

Pisces in the seventh house brings a gentle and imaginative energy to your collaborations. You excel in partnerships that prioritize creativity, emotional intelligence, and shared ideals, often thriving in environments where compassion and artistic vision are celebrated.

Your glow-up involves ensuring your collaborations remain balanced and grounded. While your intuition and imagination are powerful assets, working with collaborators who bring structure and focus can help transform your dreams into reality.

Focus on projects that align with Pisces’ love for art and service—such as creating healing art, participating in charitable initiatives, or contributing to causes that inspire unity and compassion. Your ability to connect with others on a soul level makes you an exceptional partner in meaningful ventures.

Attracting Harmonious Connections: Loving and Intuitive Relationships

Pisces in the seventh house attracts connections that are nurturing, emotionally fulfilling, and spiritually aligned. You’re drawn to people who resonate with your sensitivity and who bring a sense of peace and harmony to your life.

To glow up your ability to attract harmonious connections, focus on cultivating your inner sense of peace and emotional balance. When you feel centered and aligned with your higher self, you naturally draw people who match your loving energy.

Express your compassion and creativity in your social interactions, whether through acts of kindness, sharing your artistic talents, or simply offering a listening ear. Surround yourself with people who uplift your spirit and honor your need for emotional depth and connection.

Masterlist this series - TikTok (Matrix of Destiny) - Masterlist - YouTube (subliminals)

[capitanooos]

coins and sapphires, swords and sandals // lucius verus x reader

-`♡´- pairing : lucius verus x reader (fem)

-`♡´- summary : when readers first betrothed unwillingly finds his way back to Rome as a gladiator, things go differently than he had expected.

-`♡´- warnings : violence, gladiator 2 spoilers, and 1 too i guess, kiss kiss mwahmwah. acacius as readers daddy. reader is about 25, lucius 27ish to make the timeline in my head work lol.

-`♡´- extra : for more updates on more parts or lack of, check my other blog @jorra3lagon !!

-`♡´- notes : i guess this can count as a summary, or introduction to a whole fanfic ill write soon cause i cant get enough of paul mescal as lucius hihihhihi

-`♡´- word count : 4538

dont translate, modify or repost my work. you do not have permission. not my gif

211 AD 

As the farewells came to an end and the halls of the Acacius villa emptied, silence returned once more. 

Ever since her father returned from his conquest in Numidia [Name] her life felt like a sick joke. From her black clothing, to the tear stains on her cheeks, to the constant visits of important people. Her second husband was dead. Her third love had left her alone in this world. The gods had damned her. 

As she sipped the wine from her cup she stared at the fish in the water. So carefree, swimming endless circles in the pool, not having to worry for a second of losing their loved ones. They looked stunning, the fire from the lanterns reflecting on their colorful scales as they let out small air bubbles. 

“Dear,” Lady Lucilla stood behind her, speaking to her softly as she moved to sit at [Name]'s side, also admiring the colorful fish. Now the two were connected by her father, Marcus Acacius, but before that their connection would’ve laid with [Name] her first betrothed. Lucius Verus. It had been nearly twenty years since his disappearance, and as time went, it became evident he would not be returning. He was presumed dead. 

[Name] had gone on to marry a high lord as was expected of her. The lord who died of illness that took him away quickly, not too long after their marriage. She knew his interests lay not with women, they had an understanding and he was a good man. Had he lived longer, she knew her life would have been well with him, for he would never have hurt her, but alas, the good never live long. 

Two years later, she remarried. As a lady of her status and bloodline, it was her duty. This time she married one of her fathers trusted advisers. A man, not older than thirty. With him, she had carried one child, who never lived to take his first breath. Two and a half years later, her second husband followed their child to the next world.

Now she had returned home once again, sharing a roof with her father and stepmother once more. The house that once kept Lucius safe and warm too. 

“I feel for you, daughter.” Lucilla spoke again softly. Her hand comes up to caress [Name]s in a sense of comfort. The younger of the two women looked up, the tears in her reddened eyes reflecting in the red of the fire. Unlike the beautifully reflecting fish, her tears were angry, full of grief, shame. They fell with no shame. Tear after tear, grieving all that she had lost, and seemed to continue losing.

“As the daughter of our beloved General Acacius we mourn with you, Lady [Name]. It brought us much regret to hear of the passing of your late husband.” Much to her surprise, Emperor Geta spoke as he looked at her when she bowed before him in greeting. She was invited to one of their parties, where they would allegedly show one of the barbarians they captured in Numidia. 

“Thank you, sire.” [Name] bowed her head at the Emperors again. They intimidated her, as they did with almost the whole of Rome. In the few times she had the absolute pleasure of being in their presence, she had always stuck close to her father, later on husbands, when they’d approach. The looks in their eyes scared her, they were like lions, able to snap and attack at any moment. 

“Ah, you’re the girl who was betrothed to Lady Lucilla’s boy?” Emperor Caracalla spoke up as he looked at [Name] with funny eyes. She froze before nodding, 

“Yes, sire, may the gods be with him.”

Emperor Geta gave his brother a look, seemingly confused as to how his brother would remember that given his… situation. He waved her away with a small half smile before returning his attention back to one of his concubines. 

Giving one last bow, she moved to the sidelines, her once black dresses now back in their usual colorful state. Jewellery adorning her neck, hands, arms, waist, and ears clicking like a soft jingle as she walked among lords and ladies. Eventually her eyes laid on one of her friends. “Fortuna,” she smiled as she approached the woman. “I’m so glad to see you.”

The woman returned her greeting, pulling the other woman in for an embrace. “I’m also glad to see you here, out of your mourning clothes with that.” She spoke as she linked their arms together and moved back through the crowd. “Father says he’s getting the fiercest of the barbarians your father captured here to fight one of the Emperors their own champion.” smiles were exchanged as they politely pushed through the people. “Here look, he’s sitting right there.” Fortuna pointed to an exit, there on a bench sat a young man, looking down at the ground. 

His dark blonde hair shone brightly from beneath the dirt that coated it. Cuts covered his face and arms, and probably the rest of his body too. She couldn’t see much more than that as Fortuna kept talking and walking to the front of the crowd to get a better view at the fight that was to happen soon.

“I saw him fight in the arena where my father bought him. He was biting away at some of the apes they fought. They call him the ape-eater.”

The guests cheered as the Emperors their champion was brought in. He bowed before the red haired rulers and they offered him a nod. [Name] her gaze wasn’t laid on either the Emperors or their champion. It was laid on the barbarian from Numidia who was being brought in. His shackles were undone when he stood in front of the Emperors as well. Up close she could see his bright blue eyes as they reflected in the sunlight that entered the big room. His facial features were sharp and he looked exactly like the statues of Roman heroes. [Name] her mouth slightly hung open as only one thought ran through her mind. 

Lucius

As the name ran through her mind like a mantra the barbarian looked at her, and his eyes grew a tiny bit. His gaze was fierce and his beautiful blue eyes were filled with rage and anger as he studied her own eyes. 

Lucius

His gaze swept over her face, down her body before snapping back to her eyes. His gaze now hardened as he looked at her again before turning his head away as a sword was thrusted into his hands.

Emperor Caracalla’s giggles and the screeches of his monkey echoed through the room as they fought, but [Name] her gaze was stuck on the same spot on the wall where the barbarian stood seconds ago. 

Yelps and screams snapped her out of her trance and her eyes looked around, breathing out in relief when she saw the barbarian unharmed, impaling the Emperor's gladiator with his sword. The crowd cheered and clapped as the fallen champion was dragged out. [Name] continued to stare at the barbarian, who resembled so much more than he realized, as he refused to speak to the emperor. 

His laugh echoed through the room as he finally opened his mouth after Marcrinus made up a lie. He stared at the Emperor intensely as he took a step toward him. The former took a small staggering step back as fear crossed his face for a split second, unknowing what the barbarian in front of him might do if he stayed within arms length of him.

“The gates of hell are open night and day, smooth is the descent, and easy is the way. But…” [Name] her mouth fell open in shock of hearing Virgil, poetry coming out of his mouth, “...to come back from hell, and view the cheerful skies, in this the task and mighty labor lies.” 

The edges of [Name] her vision began to go dark as she held onto Fortuna for support. The woman glanced down at her and upon seeing her pale face she brought her to a place to sit. The dark haired woman searched the others' eyes, not being able to find anything.

“What is the matter, friend?”

[Name] held a hand to her sweating forehead as she closed her eyes. Trying to get rid of her false hope and get herself together before anyone noticed that she was acting off. 

“I suppose my stomach can not handle violence and bloodshed from this close up.” she lied with a small laugh, hoping she didn’t act too out of character for herself. “It felt like I was about to have a fainting spell.” 

The other woman smiled as she offered her her drink. “I’ll have someone call for your carriage to get back home.”

The ride home was a blur. It must have been nothing more than a coincidence. It couldn’t have been anything else. She was greeted by a servant who accompanied her to her rooms and helped her change. The summer heat peaked these days and even the lightest clothes seemed suffocating if you wore them too long. 

She kept silent for hours. The servants assumed she was still mourning her late husband, which would make sense. Supper went the same, any questions were just answered with a nod or shake of her head, eyes cast down at the food on her plate or the wine in her cup. Lucilla and Acacius exchanged looks, and Acacius couldn’t help but see his daughter as herself from a decade ago. Rebellious in her teen years, maturing into a young woman, looking more and more like her biological mother who had left the world too soon. He could see past her facade, he could see the clockworks rotating in her head, focussed, thinking, lost somewhere deep in her own world up in her head. 

After dinner she had quickly excused herself before returning to her quarters. She stood in front of the collection of crystals, rocks, gems, and other small trinkets that laid on the desk. They had collected dust over the years that they had laid there. Their price value wouldn’t be that high, but their emotional value lay high. Higher than any money could ever buy. 

Back when Lucius and she were betrothed, she was no older than six summers, Lucius not a full moon above eight. Lady Lucilla had a big part in the betrothal, knowing the girl’s mother as a childhood friend from court and believing they would make a strong couple. The daughter of a general, and the Prince of Rome. When Lucius had found out, he saw it not as a betrothal but as a friendship, after all, they were both children, they wouldn’t understand until at least a little later in life. 

So always if Lucius found out [Name] would be in the city, he’d have his guards find her so he could give her small gifts. They were young but the pair grew oddly fond of each other and soon, a whole shelf of crystals and other precious shining items came to be in her rooms. 

The years after Lucius’ disappearance she understood more and more how much he had meant to her, what would’ve been if he was still here, how different her life would have been. The items meant everything to her, for they were her last real connection to Lucius. 

“You know, I would always be missing some items from my jewellery boxes when Lucius went out into the city. Or sometimes it was servants who reported missing items from the halls.” Lucilla said as she stood in the doorframe, admiring the young woman who had a bright green gemstone pressed against her chest. “It didn’t take long before I found out it was Lucius who took them. I followed him into the city, to the markets where I saw him giving you something. I watched as you took out a gold butterfly and smiled brightly. I never said a thing about the missing items, and often I laid out things for him to find and take.” Slowly she walked into the room and stood beside [Name] “He really loved you.”

The young girl nodded. 

“What is bothering you, daughter?” Lucilla took one of her hands, holding it tightly as she searched her stepdaughter's eyes. They were filled with sorrow, her whole face portrayed it. She felt [Name] grip her hand as she stared at her. 

“The Numidian barbarian I watched fight at the Emperors’ gathering…” she shook her head, looking down at the green stone in her hand. 

Even when all hope seems lost, know it will return. Little wise Lucius Verus’ words from when he gave her this stone rang through her head.

“Curls as blonde as your own, eyes as blue as the heavens.” Lucilla’s eyes were still on her, “The only thing I could think of when I saw him was Lucius. He recited Virgil; The gates of hell are open night and day, smooth is the descent, and easy is the way… Lucilla, you mustn't think of me as crazy.” 

She felt the elder woman tighten her grip on her hand as she slowly pulled her along. They walked through the halls, crossed the courtyard, and entered the secret door that led to Lucius his former chambers. [Name] had only been there once or twice, years and years ago. 

Lucilla stood still as she looked up, where drawings and words decorated the walls. [Name] followed her gaze, eyes widening upon realization. The words laid right in front of her, the exact words the blue eyed barbarian had recited. 

The gates of hell are open night and day, smooth is the descent, and easy is the way. But to come back from hell, and view the cheerful skies, in this the task and mighty labor lies. 

“General Justus Acacius, and with him his daughter [Name] and his wife, Lucilla! The daughter of Emperor Marcus Aurelius! 

[Name] entered the Emperor's box in the Colosseum behind her father and Lucilla, hearing the people cheer for her father as they were introduced. It would forever surprise her how loud, and how massive the place was. She did not attend the games often, for it was known the bloodshed often fell bad on her stomach, but now, she felt like she needed to attend. 

She took her seat next to Lucilla as her father spoke to the citizens. His voice rang through the crowd as they chanted his name. She saw Emperor Geta look in her direction, smiling wickedly when he caught her eyes before turning back around. 

As the announcer spoke up again, the doors opened and the first gladiators came out. [Name] held her breath in fear as she looked among them. Her hand was interlinked with Lucilla’s, who saw him before she did and tightened her hand so hard her knuckles turned white. She followed her stepmother's gaze, and her eyes landed on the blue eyed barbarian once again and she returned the grasp on her stepmother's hand. The gladiator's eyes shifted to hers, and his gaze held familiarity, but before she could react, he had already looked away.

The south doors opened and in came the Emperor's prized champion. 

“Hail Caesars!” he bellowed and the crowd followed with cheers and chants. 

The two women up in the Emperor's box held their breath as they exchanged a knowing look. A mutual understanding. 

Boo’s echoed through the stadium, cheers encouraged the gladiators, excitement buzzed and the emperors grew more blood thirsty every time a gladiator dodged the massive rhino. 

When the blue eyed barbarian thrusted his sword down into the sand, and bent down to grab two fistfuls of sand she heard Lucilla breathe out a shuddering breath as she looked at him in curiosity and confusion.

The rhino crashed into the wall of the arena, causing a stir in the crowd and the Emperors rushed to the railing to see what happened like two little boys. A fight broke loose, the rider of the rhino and the barbarian fought. The upper hand going to the rider of the rhino, he kicked and threw the barbarian around and Emperor Geta spoke up.

“Brother, it’s that poet, is it not?” he spoke as he watched his brother sit back down with the excuse of not knowing. “The gates of hell are open night and day… Smooth is… I forgot… Smooth the…”

“Smooth is the descent, easy is the way.” 

Below, the fight was still going, clouds of dust rising up in the arena as the crowds chanted for mercy. The chants turned into roars of excitement as the Emperor granted mercy in the name of the Gods. “No mercy!” the barbarian yelled, looking up to the box as he rested on one knee. “I would rather face your blade, than accept Roman mercy!” With that he stood up as the rhino rider charged for him again. 

It happened in the blink of an eye as he rolled around and sliced his sword into his chest, watching how he fell to his knees as he cradled the wound. Now the crowds chanted for the kill, and the barbarian complied. The crowds were loud before, but now they went ballistic, and [Name] was certain all of Rome could hear them chant the gladiator's name. 

“Hanno! Hanno! Hanno!”

The name continued to ring through [Name] her head as they made their way home. Lucilla had seen for herself what [Name] had told her days prior, and she too knew this was her son. Two decades had gone by since she had sent him off for his own safety. Two decades of wondering if her son was still alive, and now he had stood below her, captured in Numidia, fighting on the same ground where his father died. 

Marcus Acacius was now looking at two distressed women. The two women he held closest to his heart, seeming in utter despair as they held their silence. 

“Alright, what is the matter?” he spoke up once they reached the safety of their home, he couldn’t pretend any longer. He watched as the two women exchanged a glance, then stared confused as Lucilla ordered the servants out of the room. 

“Lucius is alive,” [Name] started and her father looked at her with widened eyes. Her eyes were cast down on the stones at their feet, hand wrapped around the golden necklace at her neck. 

Acacius looked at his wife who nodded, “He’s alive.” 

He closed his eyes, his memories instantly snapping back to the young prince he once knew as his future son-in-law. The small, blonde boy with eyes as bright as the heavens.

“You are certain?”

“Yes, I know my son.”

[Name] her father sat down, looking at her. The tears were gathering in her eyes, she had mourned that boy greatly for many years. For a while she had refused to marry her first husband, saying it felt wrong, knowing she was still promised to another. She had prayed to the gods, prayed for his safety, prayed for his safe return to Rome, and now it seemed it had become reality. 

“Father, I knew it was him when I watched him fight at the Emperors’ gathering. His reaction to seeing me was enough to prove my suspicions.” she met her fathers eyes, walking toward him and taking one of his hands in hers. “I know of your plans. I overheard the conversations with the senators. The dream of Marcus Aurelius. With Lucius alive, those two ginger maniacs have less claim to the empire. Please allow me to speak to him, get him to work with us. Fortuna won’t tell a soul if I ask her, she is like a sister to me and she owes me a favor.” 

If Lucius Verus was truly alive, and back in Rome, that would change everything. Their plans to overthrow the Emperors would be easier with a male heir, the heir of Emperor Commodus, Lucilla knew that too. So Acacius nodded at his daughter, whose teary eyes turned into a smile as she embraced her father. 

“Thank you, father.” 

Once she stopped in front of the gates to the place Marcinius kept his gladiators, she slipped off her horse. Her fathers personal guard stood at a distance, ensuring her safety on the road. She walked to one of the sides, looking for the window she knew too well and when she did she called out.

“Fortuna!” It was soft, but loud enough for the other woman to poke her head out of the window. She nodded and disappeared again before appearing at the side gate leading to her and her fathers house. 

“I want to see the gladiator Hanno.”

Her friend looked at her in shock but grinned as she took her hand and led her through the now dark courtyard. She was never more thankful for her friend as she opened the cell and let her in, standing on the lookout not far away.

“So, you’re the barbarian from Numidia.” [Name] spoke as she looked at the gladiators back. He wore no shirt and she could see the scars and wounds on his toned back. “Hanno, no?”

He turned around when she called his name, eyes once more growing in surprise as he saw her.

“My lady, yes.” he said, eyes tracing her whole form. From her dark blue dress to her dark robe, and the singular gold necklace, it was different as opposed to the light colors and many jewellery items she wore when he had first seen her. “What do you need from me?”

She studied his eyes, he was much closer now than he’d been in the last few days. The moon light shone in through the high barred window and fell on his face.

She took off her necklace and she held it up in front of his face. “Do you know who this is?” she spoke as the coin shimmered in the moonlight, illuminating the face on it. 

LUCIUS VERUS II it read around the face. 

“Lucius Verus the second?” Hanno spoke, reading it off the coin. 

“You can read, you know Virgil, I’ve been informed you know Roman history, you fight like-” fought exactly like the boy she used to watch as he parred with his guards. “Like a trained Roman swordsman. You are no Numidian, so don’t pretend to be one, Lucius.” 

He raised his brows at her, at her choice of words, at the name she called him. A cocky smile adorned his face as he took a daring step forward, his smile widening when she didn’t move back, instead only straightening her back and raising her chin to look at him.

“Whoever you think I am, you are wrong.” Hanno bent down a little, towering over her as she held his fierce gaze.

She reached into the pocket of her cloak, her fingers wrapping around the cold stone as she brought it out.

“Nineteen summers ago, I got this sapphire from my betrothed, the young prince Lucius Verus. When he gave it to me he said the words; even when all hope seems lost, know it will return. Not long later after that he disappeared. Whether he knew it then or not, he would be our hope in the future. He is our hope now. Not only to save Rome from the rule it is now under, but also to bring the dream of Marcus Aurelius to reality.”

Hanno looked at her, something in his gaze changed as he stood straight again. His gaze fell to the small treasures in her hand. 

“You carry the face of a missing prince around your neck? How your husband must like that.” he scoffed as he turned his back to her once more.

“He was a dear friend, and a great loss not only to me, but his mother too. I loved the prince, with my entire heart. I still do.”

That had Hanno turning his head around, looking at her as she turned to leave the cell before turning her own face back to him. 

“Lucius Verus is our last hope. Stay alive gladiator.” 

“Wait,” Hanno turned back around and took a big step forward, she could feel his warm breath on her neck. “Why? Why do you think I am your precious prince.”

[Name] turned around to face him, her brows furrowed at his choice of words, his arrogant, nearly mocking tone. She looked at the necklace that was dangling between them. 

“The gods have damned me, but that does not mean I forget the ones I love. Some things do not change, can not change. You have three birthmarks on the left side of your neck. Along with a scar covering both of your calves from the same sword strike from when you insisted on practicing with real swords with your uncle, Emperor Commodus.” She reached a hand up to his neck, lightly touching the three birthmarks before trailing behind him, and sure enough, the white lines covering his calves stood out among his toned skin. “The gates of hell are open night and day. Smooth is the descent and easy is the way. Those are the lines written on the walls of your childhood bedroom. I can go on, but I knew it was you from the first moment we made eye contact at the Emperors’ gathering.” she finished as she circled back in front of him.

Hanno looked at her with wide eyes, his breathing heavy. He had not counted on being recognised that easily. Hell, he had not even counted on seeing her. His eyes darted between hers before they fell on her soft, plush lips. All those years and she still remembered the smallest things about him, carrying his face around her neck, close to her heart. Kept the trinkets he had gifted her all those years ago. She risked her life coming here just to seek confirmation of what she already knew.

“We-”

He pressed his lips against her own, his worn and scarred hands coming up to cup her face as she returned the kiss. Her hands moved to his chest, one pulling him closer by the back of his neck as the other felt his heart go crazy below his skin. The kiss was slow but rough as one of his hands travelled to her lower back and pulled her body closer to his. 

They broke apart when they heard soft footsteps approaching. They looked to the door of the cell to see Fortuna motioning it was time for [Name] to go. 

[Name], who still held the gold necklace in her hand, looked up at the man before her. She reached for the necklace with her other hand before moving them around Hanno’s neck and locking it. 

“Remember who you are, and remember what is rightfully yours.” she cupped his cheek and he leaned down to touch his forehead to hers. “Stay alive, Lucius.”

-`♡´--`♡´--`♡´--`♡´--`♡´--`♡´--`♡´--`♡´--`♡´--`♡´--`♡´--`♡´-

dont forget to like and reblog <3 please😓😓

dont translate, modify or repost my work. you do not have permission.

[molotoph]

Not to be dramatic but the idea that the first post is “horror” pisses me off on like an atomic level. You know what those are? Other people.

“What if a person who both is and isn’t you, who both can never share your inner thoughts and wears a nearly identical face, who has their own inner thoughts you will never know, didn’t want to hurt you, they just wanted to live, to be happy, free, loved?” OH YOU MEAN LIKE HOW THERE BEING OTHER HUMANS WORKS IN REAL LIFE???!?!?! HOW IS THAT SCARY?!??!!!

How tf is it scary that other people exist and are just different iterations of me like how I’m different iterations of them, how even though we can never break qualia it literally doesn’t matter and the beauty is that we don’t NEED to break qualia to form community and connections with each other.

“A different kind of horror” ugh. Like idk what you meant by this but it reminds me of those neoconservative tv shows where it’s like “ooh we start to break qualia and then oh no humans get to know each other too well and the woke hive mind virus steals my individualism” no that is not what would happen

I literally never assumed a doppelgänger would want to kill me bc I’m not fucking weird and I don’t want to approach another me with belligerent violent terror of the unknown. Another me wouldn’t want to kill me, they’ve had the same internal conversation about it, and we’re running on the same hardware. I’d have a less clear answer on danger posed by a stranger that doesn’t mirror me visually.

“What if you get a cool new twin that just wants to be loved” “that’s also scary!” H O W

what if your doppelgänger wasn’t evil it was just a person. what if your doppelgänger wasn’t trying to replace you it was just trying to learn to be a person and you were the best model it had. what if your doppelgänger looked at you with your eyes and said with your voice that it just wanted to be loved. what then.

[magnoliapromenadegalleria]

I take no issue with monetizing cc. You release good content and have an agreeable release window, I either choose to subscribe, or I wait. Cool. What I do take issue with is this

Perma-paywalls or ridiculous early access release windows. Anything exceeding thirty days is excessive. My opinion.

2. New creators setting up immediate early access. The skillset is just not there yet to put a price on your creations. You barely have a base to sell to. This includes creators who created for other games, then come over to The Sims and try to sell to us. For example, the creator that makes skins and admitted they don't even play the game. Simply here for profit.

3. Creators that do not qc their work, or steal from other creators. Girl.

4. Customer service. Once you start creating for profit, whether it be supplemental or your main source, you have to have a level of customer service and professionalism. You have now started a brand. A very niche brand, but that's what it is. You cannot be short with people for asking valid questions and catching an attitude with them. Like that one lady with the tree coming out in February. If you are one of those rare creators who is lucky enough money to hire someone to handle your social media, I suggest you do that. Or supply a friend with more patience with their favorite coffee or something and let them handle it. Something.

5. Not interacting with the community you are trying to sell to. Connect with people. Repost their edits, lookbooks, builds, leave comments, give a like. The creator mentioned above commented that no one comments on their stuff, at least not here. Fair. This community does not talk like it used to, but to each other like it used to, but you can go to creator pages and see that they are perfectly curated advertisements. Like a showroom. No reblogs of anyone using their content. If you want that for your main page fine, but at least have another side blog where you can do the outlined above.

6. Pushing something out just to push it. I think we have entered a space, both creator and follower/consumer, where everything feels so fast-paced. What's the new thing coming out, what's next, etc. So much so that I think it has made creators push out content just to keep up, especially if they rely on that income. This has resulted in some creators getting into hot water for releasing the same item(s) in different sets and in different colors. Or creators releasing duplicates of the same thing. It can be frustrating, but I question if it is because they're just trying to keep up, or afraid to try something new or different in fear of it not doing well. Some smaller creators who create different content don't get as much love and I question if they would receive more if they followed the wave, or were big enough to start one.

Now to this community

If a creator disrespects you or others or moves in a way that you don't fundamentally agree with, and you complain but still download and or advertise their content, you're moving counterproductive to your plight. Why would anyone reflect on themselves when you prove that you're going to advertise their content anyway?

2. Show love to these creators. Big and small, especially small, monetized or not. Everyone likes to hear or see that what they release is valued. Don't harass or disrespect creators if they take a break, or they don't get something out quickly. Especially the modders.

3. Interact with each other. Even if your aesthetics or different. This is a community. If you see something you like, LIKE IT. Share it, leave a comment.

4. Create the thing simmer. The edit, cc, build, lookbook, whatever. Create the thing and share the thing. Even if it isn't part of a popular trend or aesthetic.

I'm speaking about myself here too because I want to better about this.

I want this to feel fun again. Not just based on what is in at the moment.

This might be read. Might not. Just my two Abes. Anyway I'm about to make some soup from scratch. Toodles!

[burrowlvrr]

— MORTGAGE MISCHIEF, joe burrow.

PAIRING: Joe Burrow 𝔁 Black!Wife!Reader

GENRE: Husband & Dad Joe

SUMMARY: In which — Y/N caves in and makes a TikTok account, and it doesn't take long for her to try to prank her unserious husband.

NOTE: I love this trend on TikTok so freaking much, bro, I just couldn't help myself. I wish there was more pranks going around TikTok so I could write another one lol! Feel free to send me more ideas and suggestions, enjoy!

UNIVERSE: Tenderhearts & Touchdowns!

Y/N had never been the kind of person to keep up with social media trends. Her Instagram was mostly filled with family snapshots, vacation photos, and the occasional throwback post from her college days. TikTok, though? That was a whole different ballgame.

She’d heard the buzz about it, of course—the dances, the memes, the endless rabbit hole of videos that could steal hours of your day—but it wasn’t really her thing.

That is, until some of Joe’s fans started flooding her DMs.

It wasn’t unusual for her to get messages from fans, most of them kind and supportive, occasionally sprinkled with the usual social media chaos. But after a family photo Joe posted went viral—a candid shot of the two of them laughing while their kids played in the background—her inbox blew up.

Several people had suggested she start a TikTok account, saying things like, “Your family is so cute, we’d love to see more of you guys!” and “Please post more videos of Joe being a dad; it’s the content we all need!”

At first, she brushed it off. The idea of putting her family out there in such a public way made her hesitant. Their life was private, cozy, and real—did she really want to open that up to the internet? But the messages kept coming, and her curiosity eventually got the better of her. One evening, after the kids were asleep and Joe was watching game highlights, she downloaded the app.

It didn’t take long for TikTok to reel her in. The first few days, she lurked quietly, scrolling through endless videos of clever pranks, hilarious parenting fails, and, of course, a whole section of TikToks dedicated to football wives and girlfriends. It was the pranks that hooked her.

Women were pulling the funniest, most creative stunts on their unsuspecting husbands—pretending to be mad over made-up arguments, mispronouncing their favorite athletes’ names, and her personal favorite, casually dropping bombshell “confessions” to see how their partners would react.

She couldn’t resist.

“This would be perfect for Joe,” she’d said to herself one night, already grinning at the thought. He was so even-keeled most of the time, but his sass came out when he was caught off guard, and she couldn’t wait to see what he’d say.

So, Y/N started posting. At first, it was just lighthearted videos of their kids, like Hudson and Elijah racing each other in the backyard or Sawyer trying to crawl after their dog, who always managed to stay just out of reach. The comments poured in, full of love and laughter, and she started to feel less nervous about sharing these little moments. And then came the pranks.

She eased into them, starting small—things like pretending to forget what day of the week it was or asking Joe if she could switch his game-day hoodie with one of hers. His reactions were gold, and her videos started gaining traction. She didn’t know how many people would find it so funny, but apparently, the internet loved Joe Burrow getting pranked as much as she did.

Which is how she found herself, phone in hand, ready to execute her latest and possibly best trend yet: the “I can’t pay the mortgage this month” prank.

The living room buzzed with the quiet hum of family life. Hudson and Elijah were seated cross-legged on the rug, their faces scrunched in concentration as they connected Lego pieces, the colorful blocks scattered across the coffee table like a mini construction zone. Sawyer, their youngest, was on the floor nearby, rolling lazily on her playmat while holding her bottle with both hands, occasionally babbling nonsense to herself.

Joe was stretched out on the couch, the epitome of relaxation in his gray hoodie and sweatpants, his wife’s legs comfortably draped over his thighs. His focus was glued to the MMA fight playing on the TV, and he absently stirred his spoon around a bowl of cereal balanced in his hand.

Every so often, he’d let out a low, “Oof,” reacting to a particularly hard punch or takedown, his body slightly tensing with the action on screen.

Y/N sat beside him, phone in hand, scrolling through TikTok. She stumbled across the trend a few hours ago, and decided that now was too good an opportunity to pass up.

Glancing sideways at Joe, she smirked to herself. This will be fun.

She adjusted her phone subtly, angling it to record, and cleared her throat dramatically. “Joe?”

“Hmm?” he murmured, not taking his eyes off the screen as he scooped another bite of cereal.

“I need to tell you something,” she said softly, injecting a hint of nervousness into her tone.

Joe didn’t look up. “What’s up, baby?”

“Don’t get mad at me, okay?” she added, biting her bottom lip to suppress a grin.

That got his attention. Joe’s hand froze midair, his spoon hovering over the bowl, and he turned his head toward her, squinting slightly.

“What? Why would I get mad?” His sharp gaze shifted to the phone in her lap. “Wait… why’re you recording? You pregnant again?”

Y/N burst out laughing at his assumption, unable to keep up her serious facade. “What? No!”

���Are you sure? ‘Cause that’s how you told me about Sawyer,” he replied with a smirk, leaning back on the couch and rubbing his free hand over his face.

“You just pulled out your phone, started recording, and bam—‘Congratulations, you’re gonna be a dad again!’” Y/N rolled her eyes but couldn’t help giggling. “I’m serious, Joe. This is important.”

“Alright, alright,” he said, setting his cereal down on the side table and shifting so he was facing her fully. “What’s going on? And why are you being all dramatic about it?”

Y/N took a deep breath, steadying herself before delivering her line. “I, uh… I won’t be able to pay the mortgage this month.”

Joe blinked at her, his brows knitting together in confusion. “Girl, what are you talking about?” His tone was casual but tinged with disbelief.

She tried to keep her composure, clasping her hands together as if pleading. “The school’s on winter break, so my paycheck isn’t going to be enough. I just—ugh, I didn’t want to disappoint you.”

Joe stared at her for a moment, his expression unreadable. “Okay, wait. How much is the mortgage?”

Y/N’s mouth opened and closed like a fish out of water. “Uh… like… $2,000?” she guessed, feigning confidence.

Joe’s mouth twitched, and he let out a low chuckle, shaking his head. “Babe. You don’t even know how much it is, do you?”

“Well…” she stalled, trying to recover.

“That’s what I thought,” he said, leaning back against the couch and crossing his arms. “You’ve never paid the mortgage.”

“I know!” Y/N blurted, throwing her hands up dramatically. “I was going to as your Christmas present, but my paycheck won’t be enough now!”

Joe’s brow furrowed again, but this time his lips quirked upward, unable to hide his amusement. “So let me get this straight. You don’t know how much the mortgage is. You’ve never paid it before. And now you’re stressed because your Christmas present was gonna be paying it, but you can’t?”

“Exactly!” she said, doubling down.

For a moment, Joe just stared at her, then he broke into a deep laugh, leaning forward to rest his elbows on his knees. “You’re crazy,” he muttered, shaking his head. Grabbing his cereal bowl, he leaned back against the couch.

“Don’t worry about it, babe. I got it.” He scooped another spoonful and took a bite like it was the most casual thing in the world.

Y/N couldn’t hold it in any longer. She burst into laughter, clutching her stomach as she nearly dropped her phone.

Joe raised an eyebrow at her, still chewing. “What’s so funny now?”

“It was a TikTok prank!” she wheezed, wiping tears of laughter from her eyes.

Joe’s smirk deepened as he shook his head. “Yeah, I figured. There’s no way you were being serious.”

“You were so calm about it, though!” she said, still laughing. “I really thought I’d get a bigger reaction out of you!”

“Nah,” Joe replied, reaching over to pinch her ankle playfully. “You’re too bad at lying, babe. Next time, at least Google how much the mortgage is first.”

From the floor, Hudson looked up from the Lego set with a curious expression. “What’s a mortgage?”

Joe snorted, pointing his spoon at his son. “Something you don’t gotta worry about, buddy.”

Elijah chimed in without looking up from his Legos. “Mommy’s bad at pranks.”

Sawyer let out a happy babble from her playmat, almost as if she agreed.

Joe laughed, pulling Y/N closer with one arm. “Looks like the jury’s unanimous, babe. Better luck next time.”

[rootedinrevisions]

Where the Night Ends

SUMMARY: After an evening in the spotlight, Glen Powell’s biggest night of the year is more than just red carpets and bright lights—it’s a celebration of his career and a test of his resilience. Through the glamour and chaos, you’re by his side, offering him a safe space to share the highs and the inevitable disappointments. In the quiet hours after the applause fades, the two of you find strength in each other, proving that true connection shines brighter than any award.

A/N: This story was inspired by the idea for a story I've had for a while for Glen that even the most charismatic and confident people, like Glen Powell, have quieter, more vulnerable sides they don’t often show the world. While Glen’s charm and upbeat personality make him shine in the public eye, I wanted to imagine what those quiet, intimate moments might look like—the ones where he allows himself to relax and let his guard down with someone he trusts completely. And I thought tonight with the Golden Globes and him not winning would be a perfect way to explore this idea I've had. Also I don't know why but Glen low key gives me golden retriever boyfriend vibes so there's some of that in here as well!

I’d love to hear your thoughts! Your Likes, Comments, and Reblogs mean the world to me and help me continue creating stories like this one.

WARNINGS: Nudity (No Smut, just non-sexual but intimate nudity).

TAGS: In comments.

You glance at your reflection one last time, running your hands down the smooth fabric of your gown. The luxurious satin hugs your body in all the right places, the deep color shimmering subtly under the bathroom light. The rich hue perfectly complements Glen’s sharp, classic black ensemble, and you can't help but imagine how great the two of you will look together tonight. The gold accents on your bracelet catch the light with every movement, adding a hint of warmth to the otherwise cool tones of the dress. It feels like magic—elegant, understated, and yet striking in its own quiet way. The gown pools slightly at your feet, as if it were made for you.

You take a deep breath, trying to calm the nerves that have settled in the pit of your stomach. This is your first time attending such an event with Glen, despite the time you’ve been together. You won’t be walking the red carpet beside him, and the idea of staying in the background, on the sidelines, makes you both excited and slightly anxious. You're not used to this kind of attention, and tonight, all eyes will be on him.

Before you can let the nerves fully settle in, you hear Glen's voice. His warm, familiar tone breaks through the quiet of the hotel room.

"Damn," he murmurs from the doorway, his voice a little breathless. "I thought the Golden Globes were supposed to be the main event tonight, but now I’m not so sure."

You turn toward him, your heart skipping a beat. He’s standing in the doorway, leaning against the frame with a grin, his velvet jacket catching the light. His eyes lock onto yours, and there’s something in them—a mixture of admiration, affection, and something deeper.

He takes a slow step forward, his gaze never leaving yours, and wraps his arms around you from behind. His chest presses into your back, warm and solid, grounding you in the moment. His breath brushes against your ear, soft and gentle.

"You look incredible," he says, voice low and reverent, before pressing a kiss to your temple.

You meet his eyes in the mirror, a small smile tugging at your lips. The warmth of his embrace settles your nerves, and the tension you hadn’t realized you were holding begins to melt away.

His presence is like a balm, soothing your anxieties. You lean back into him, the soft beat of his heart against your back comforting you. It’s a moment of quiet intimacy before the whirlwind of the night begins.

"You sure I’m not going to embarrass you in front of all those cameras?" you tease, glancing back at him with a playful smile.

Glen chuckles softly, tightening his arms around you just a little. "You couldn’t embarrass me if you tried," he murmurs, his voice steady. "Besides I think my mom and dad have the embarrassing moments covered."

You both laugh softly, but the smile that stretches across his face is real—genuine, almost vulnerable in a way that only you get to see. It’s a rare, quiet moment that makes you feel all the more certain of the love you share.

You take a deep breath, your nerves settling as you feel the warmth of his body surrounding you. His embrace is a reminder of the calm you’ve come to rely on in the chaos of this world—his, and now yours.

"Alright, I think it’s time to get going," you say softly, turning slightly to grab your coat from the chair.

Glen kisses your cheek before you both head for the door, his hand brushing yours as you step into the next phase of the night.

You and Glen step out of the hotel room, the cool air of the hallway brushing against your skin as the door clicks shut behind you. Glen’s hand finds yours almost instinctively, the familiar warmth of his touch grounding you once again. You give him a small smile, feeling the shift from the quiet intimacy of the room to the bustle of the world outside.

"Ready?" he asks, his voice warm but laced with a hint of excitement. His eyes twinkle, full of that effortless charm he seems to carry with him no matter where he goes.

"Ready as I’ll ever be," you reply, giving his hand a reassuring squeeze.

The elevator ride down to the lobby is quick, but the silence between you is comfortable. Glen’s thumb brushes lightly against your hand as you both stand side by side, the sound of the elevator music almost drowned out by the rush of adrenaline you both share. Tonight is big—for him, for both of you—but in this moment, it’s just the two of you, sharing a quiet space before the chaos begins.

The elevator dings as it reaches the lobby floor, and you step out into the bright, bustling space. The lobby is abuzz with activity—people in tuxedos and gowns chatting, last-minute preparations happening all around. You spot the entrance to the event area, where a stream of reporters and photographers are lined up, their cameras ready to catch the next big arrival.

Glen’s parents, Cyndy and Glen Sr., are already waiting by the elevators, talking to a few other familiar faces. The moment they see you both, Cyndy’s warm, motherly smile lights up her face.

"There they are!" she says, walking over to give Glen a hug. "Glen, you look so handsome!"

Glen returns her embrace with a chuckle, his broad shoulders relaxing in her hug. "Thanks, Mom. You look amazing, too."

Cyndy pulls back, giving you a quick once-over with approving eyes. "And you, sweetheart, look just breathtaking."

"Thank you," you say, smiling softly, feeling a wave of warmth at her words.

Glen Sr. gives you a small nod of approval before turning his attention to the growing crowd. “Ready to go, son?” he asks, his voice low and steady, a stark contrast to the bright excitement in the air.

"Yeah, let’s do this," Glen replies, squeezing your hand once more before stepping forward.

As you step toward the doors, the weight of the night becomes palpable, the atmosphere charged with anticipation. Glen’s hand slips from yours, but not before he gives it one last, reassuring squeeze. His gaze meets yours for a moment, his eyes soft with affection despite the flurry of activity around you.

He leans in close, his lips brushing against your ear, sending a wave of warmth through your body. 

"Stay close to my parents," he murmurs, his voice low and steady, a mixture of affection and quiet command. "I’ll talk to you after the red carpet, okay?"

You nod, the reassurance in his words settling your nerves just slightly. His presence, even in these small moments, brings you an unexpected sense of calm. You watch as he straightens up, giving you a final, comforting smile before turning to head towards the first section of the red carpet. The flashing lights of the cameras immediately focus on him, the buzz of voices rising as they call out his name.

You take a deep breath, reminding yourself that tonight isn’t about the spotlight on you—it’s about being there for him, supporting him as he steps into this moment.

Before you can fully process the next rush of energy, you feel a light nudge at your elbow. Glen’s dad, with his ever-so-gracious demeanor, offers you his arm. 

"Shall we?" he asks with a warm smile, a glint of pride in his eyes as he looks toward his son, now posing for the cameras ahead.

You slip your arm through his, the two of you walking in step with Glen’s mother beside you. The hum of the red carpet fills the air, the cameras flashing in bursts like strobe lights as people call out names, photographers jockeying for the best shot. It feels surreal, watching Glen move through the chaos so effortlessly, a magnet for attention, while you remain just behind him, tucked safely in the background.

The red carpet is a world of its own—a whirlwind of lights, flashing cameras, and excited chatter. You stand a few feet behind Glen, walking with his parents as you watch him effortlessly navigate the chaos. From the moment he steps onto the carpet, he’s in his element, greeting reporters, posing for the cameras, and smiling with a confidence that seems almost innate.

He moves with such ease, each step deliberate, his velvet jacket catching the light with every turn. The photographers call out his name, the clicks of the cameras almost deafening, but Glen is unfazed. He’s a natural—tilting his head slightly, flashing that signature smile that’s made him a favorite among fans and critics alike. Each pose is perfectly executed, like he’s done this a thousand times, and yet you know it’s all real, all part of the moment.

Glen interacts with the reporters as though they’re old friends. He laughs at their jokes, asks how their evening is going, and never misses a beat. It’s impossible not to feel proud as you watch him—this man you love, who has worked so hard to get to this point in his career, now being recognized for his talents. The genuine warmth in his smile, the way he listens to each person, makes them feel like they’re the only one in the room.

You catch snippets of conversations, little flashes of Glen’s humor and grace as he talks to the interviewers. “It’s an honor just to be here with such incredible talent,” he says to one, giving a humble but genuine answer that makes the reporter smile brightly. The cameras click furiously as he poses once more, a wink in your direction as if he’s sharing a private joke with you amidst all the attention.

He walks past you briefly, pausing to stop and chat with one of the other nominees. The other actor greets him warmly, their handshake firm and friendly. Glen’s laughter rings out, the two of them talking animatedly. It’s clear they’re both enjoying the interaction, and you feel a swell of pride as you watch him effortlessly charm everyone around him.

As Glen continues walking down the carpet, interacting with other actors and actresses, you steal quick glances at him, noticing the way his eyes flicker toward you, checking in even amidst the chaos. Every so often, he pauses—just for a moment—and looks back to where you’re standing with his parents, catching your gaze in a fleeting moment of connection.

It happens once when he’s posing for a photographer. He turns just enough to meet your eyes, his smile softening, just for you. Then, as he moves toward the next group of reporters, he sends a quick wink your way—casual but filled with meaning.

As he’s walking towards the interview section, he reaches out briefly, brushing his hand against yours. It’s so subtle, so quick, but the warmth of it lingers, making your heart skip a beat. You smile to yourself, feeling like you’re the only one in the crowd who understands the quiet moments between the flashes.

Every now and then, he checks in with his parents, his dad offering a gentle nod or a pat on the back, and his mom giving him a quick hug, congratulating him on the moment. As he walks past you again, he places his hand lightly on your lower back, the touch firm but gentle, like a silent reassurance. He leans in, his voice low but carrying just enough for you to hear, “I’m almost done, I promise.” You smile softly, nodding, grateful for the little check-ins.

With each moment, you feel more in awe of him—his ability to navigate this world with such grace, his kindness, and his generosity toward everyone he meets. You’ve always known how hard he’s worked for this, but seeing him shine like this, being recognized for his talent, makes your heart swell with pride. The man standing before you, talking to the crowd, was once just a guy with a dream—and now, he’s living it.

As Glen steps off the red carpet, the flurry of flashing cameras and excited shouts start to fade away. The soft hum of conversation inside the venue fills the air, and for a brief moment, you feel like the world slows down. You catch his eye just as he spots you standing at the edge of the carpet, watching him. His smile lights up his face—genuine and warm—and your heart flutters just a little bit at the sight of it.

Without a second thought, Glen strides over to you, his presence commanding yet soft, as though the spotlight of the red carpet hasn’t followed him. He leans in, pressing a quick, simple kiss to your lips—one that might be so brief to anyone watching that they’d miss it, but to you, it feels like a promise. It’s the kind of kiss that lingers just enough to remind you that you’re still in his thoughts, even in the whirlwind of the evening.

Pulling back, Glen smiles at you, his eyes soft but intense. Without missing a beat, he reaches down and takes your hand in his, the warmth of his touch grounding you in the midst of everything. His parents, ever gracious, follow behind as Glen begins to lead you into the venue.

As you step inside, the atmosphere changes. The venue is filled with a sea of familiar, and very recognizable, faces. A sea of stars, each more dazzling than the last. You glance around, and your nerves spike just a little—this is the world Glen belongs to, and even though you’re used to being by his side, it feels a little more overwhelming now. The glitzy chandeliers above, the hum of voices, the clicking of glasses... all of it is a far cry from the quieter, more intimate moments you’ve shared together.

Instinctively, you bring your free hand up and curl it around Glen’s arm, drawing just a little closer to him. It’s subtle, a small gesture, but it makes you feel grounded in a room full of people you don’t quite know. Glen notices immediately, his eyes flicking down to you as if checking in to see how you're holding up.

“You alright?” he murmurs under his breath, his voice low but caring.

You give him a small smile, nodding, but he can tell there’s a flicker of nervousness in your eyes. Glen squeezes your hand gently, his thumb brushing over the back of your hand in a slow, reassuring rhythm. 

“We’ve got this,” he says with a quiet confidence that you know is meant as much for you as it is for himself.

His smile is enough to settle your nerves, if only for a moment. You take a deep breath, and as the two of you move further into the room, the sight of the grand tables, the gleaming crystal glasses, and the fancy place settings begin to feel more familiar. Glen leads you with an easy grace, guiding you toward your assigned table with a worker who’s waiting to escort you.

The worker gestures toward your seats, and Glen holds out his hand as you approach. With a flourish, he pulls your chair out for you, a small yet thoughtful gesture that makes you feel like the most important person in the room. You smile at him, grateful for his quiet care in a setting that could easily feel overwhelming.

As you sit down, Glen takes the seat beside you, his presence as steady and comforting as it has always been. He straightens his jacket and settles into his seat, and for the first time in hours, the two of you share a quiet moment, just the two of you. The world outside might be full of glamour, fame, and recognition, but here, in this little bubble you’ve found together, it’s just Glen—being the perfect gentleman, just as he always is.

The award show begins with a grand flourish. The host steps onto the stage, the lights dimming just slightly as the audience settles into their seats. You glance around, taking in the bustling room—famous actors, actresses, and directors sitting nearby, the whispers of excitement as the event officially kicks off.

Glen’s hand rests lightly on the back of your chair. The touch is small, but it anchors you in the midst of all the grandeur surrounding you. Without thinking, you lean into him just slightly, your head tipping toward his. The warmth of his body is a comfort, grounding you as the opening monologue begins.

The host captures the crowd’s attention with a series of jokes, and the sound of laughter ripples across the room. Glen smiles at the moment, but his attention is mostly on you. Every now and then, his fingers gently tap the back of your chair as if offering his quiet reassurance. You can feel his eyes on you, checking in with a glance when he thinks you’re not looking, making sure you’re comfortable in your seat.

The first few awards pass by quickly, the names of the nominees and winners announced with the usual anticipation, but you can feel the clock ticking in your mind, each passing moment heightening the tension in your chest. Glen is nominated for Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture—Musical or Comedy, and the weight of the moment is starting to sink in.

You can feel your nerves rising with each passing category. With each announcement, the tightness in your chest grows as you anxiously glance down at your program, running your fingers over the pages in a distracted rhythm. Every now and then, Glen’s hand brushes against yours, either adjusting his position or offering an unspoken gesture of comfort. When his fingers meet yours, it’s as if the connection between you both is the only thing that grounds you amidst the flashing lights and the build-up.

The host’s voice rings out again, announcing the next presenters. You force yourself to take a slow breath, trying to calm the flutter of nerves that’s started to settle deep in your stomach. You can’t help but glance up at Glen, who, despite the chaos and the nerves building up inside him, is still looking at you with that same steady calmness. His eyes meet yours, soft but intense, and he gives you a small, quiet smile.

“You good?” he asks under his breath, his voice barely audible over the hum of the audience.

You nod, though you’re not sure if you believe it yourself. “Yeah, just a little anxious,” you admit quietly, fingers fidgeting with the edge of your program.

Glen gives you a reassuring squeeze on your shoulder and leans in closer. “You’re doing great,” he whispers, his breath warm against your ear. “Remember I’m right here.”

His voice is a steady comfort, and for a moment, you let yourself relax into it, but the closer you get to the moment of the award announcement, the harder it is to ignore the nerves prickling in your chest. You try not to let it show, but it’s impossible to ignore the fact that your whole body seems to tense with every name called.

The tension is almost unbearable as the next award category is announced. You can feel your heart beating faster as the presenter walks to the podium, the lights dimming slightly on the stage as the camera pans over the audience. You glance at Glen, your hand still lightly resting on his knee, both of you anxiously waiting for the moment to unfold.

The announcer opens the envelope, a brief pause lingering in the air, and then the name is spoken.

“Sebastian Stan.”

The name hit you like a soft punch to the gut. You’d been hoping, praying that Glen’s name would be called. But it’s not.

You exhale, the breath you’d been holding escaping in a slow, almost deflated sigh as the applause fills the room. Everyone around you begins clapping, but you feel a heavy weight settle in the pit of your stomach. You try to join in, your hands moving in sync with the crowd, but it feels automatic, hollow.

Glen’s gaze shifts downward as he claps politely, a professional smile plastered on his face. The joy that had been there moments ago, when he’d been watching others celebrate, is now gone. You notice the subtle slump of his shoulders, the way his jaw tightens just slightly. It’s so faint, but you see it—his disappointment, quiet and swift.

Without hesitation, you place a gentle hand on his knee, your fingers curling softly around the fabric of his suit. It’s a quiet gesture, one that says everything without words.

Leaning in closer, you whisper just for him. “I’m still so proud of you,” you say, your voice soft but steady. “This doesn’t change anything. You’ve had an incredible year.”

His eyes flicker to you for a moment, and though his smile is still warm, there’s a shadow of something behind it. He nods, as if trying to convince himself. 

“Yeah,” he says quietly, voice carrying the faintest hint of regret. “It’s all right.”

The cameras still hover near your table, and Glen turns slightly, giving his trademark charm for the audience, though you can see the subtle strain in the movement. It’s a mask, and you know it.

But then, just as quickly as the moment of disappointment had settled in, he shrugs it off, the professional smile back in place. He straightens his shoulders and waves at the camera as if nothing’s wrong.

“Hey,” you murmur softly, your thumb brushing gently against the back of his hand, offering him one more piece of quiet support. “You’ve worked so hard. This is just the beginning.”

Glen looks at you, his eyes softening, and he offers a genuine, albeit faint, smile. “I know. It’s just... I’ve wanted this for so long.”

The words hang in the air for a moment, and in that instant, you both share a fleeting connection—one of understanding, of being on the same page. You see past the façade, knowing the true weight of his disappointment.

The rest of the evening passes in a blur of applause, speeches, and glimmering smiles, but the air feels different now. Glen seems to slip back into his polished, charming self, laughing with others and posing for photos as if nothing had happened. But you know him too well. Every now and then, when the laughter dies down or when the lights shift in a way that makes everything feel softer, you catch glimpses of that quiet vulnerability he’s tried to hide.

You continue to offer him your presence, your unwavering support. Your hand resting on the top of his hand which rests on his thigh, fingers gently tracing the skin on the back of his hand during the dull moments between awards. You don’t need to say anything—he knows you’re there. And though he’s the one in the spotlight, it’s in these moments when you share the unspoken strength that makes you feel so connected.

The show drags on, the anticipation building as the categories shift, and eventually, the evening winds down to its final moments. You barely notice the presenter’s voice over the soft murmur of your own thoughts, a quiet hum of gratitude settling in your chest. Glen may not have won tonight, but you know—this isn’t the end for him. Not even close.

When the final award is presented, everyone stands in applause, their excitement contagious, but you find yourself leaning back into the comfort of the moment. Glen’s hand, warm and steady on your back, guides you as you both move toward the exit, his parents trailing behind you.

You glance over at him—his face now a perfect mask of grace and poise. His earlier disappointment seems to have faded into the evening's glow. And though you know it might still sting for him later, for now, you’re here. Together. And that’s all that matters.

After the award show ends, Glen gives you a small, reassuring smile as you both make your way toward his parents, who are chatting with a few other guests near the exit. You and Glen share a brief exchange of looks—silent understanding passing between you before you approach them.

“Well, I think it’s time to say goodnight,” Glen says, his voice calm but tinged with a hint of exhaustion as he hugs his mom first, then his dad.

You follow his lead, offering a warm hug to Cyndy and Glen Sr., both of whom have been incredibly supportive all night. You exchange a few words, with his mom offering you a knowing smile and his dad patting Glen on the back, offering him a quiet “You did good, son. We're proud of you.”

Once the goodbyes are said, Glen takes your hand, leading you away from his parents to a quieter corner.

“Let’s get this night wrapped up,” he says with a grin, pulling you gently toward the after-party.

The after-party is lively but not too overbearing. The usual crowd of actors, producers, and influencers circulate the room, laughing and enjoying the last moments of the night. Glen and you share a few casual conversations with some of his industry friends, but the two of you stay close, mostly content in each other's presence.

You don’t stay long. Glen’s energy is starting to dip, and you can see the weight of the night catching up to him. When he whispers that he’s ready to leave, you’re more than ready to head back to the hotel as well.

As the elevator doors close behind you, the sounds of the bustling venue fade, replaced by the soft hum of the ride up. You catch Glen glancing at you from the corner of your eye, a soft smile playing at the edges of his lips.

“You were great tonight,” you say quietly, your voice a soft reassurance.

He shrugs, but the smile never fades. “It’s just part of the job.”

As you and Glen exit the elevator, the hallway feels quieter, almost like a contrast to the energy of the evening. The weight of the night—of the red carpet, the award show, the after-party—seems to melt away as you make your way down the hall toward your hotel room.

Glen’s hand is warm around yours, but you can feel the slight tension in his shoulders, the exhaustion settling in now that the cameras are no longer flashing and the attention is no longer on him. His smile, though still present, is more tired than it had been earlier. You can tell he’s ready to unwind, just the two of you.

Reaching the door, Glen digs into his pocket for the room key, the soft click of the lock echoing in the quiet hallway. As the door swings open, the familiar scent of the room hits you—slightly musty, but comforting, like the feeling of stepping back into a private space after a long, public day.

He holds the door open for you, letting you walk in first, before following closely behind. The room is dimly lit, the night sky outside casting a soft glow through the windows. You drop your clutch on the bed, watching as Glen kicks off his shoes with a tired sigh.

You turn to face him, standing there for a moment, both of you silently taking in the quiet that fills the room. Glen moves toward you, his hands finding yours, pulling you gently toward him.

“I’m glad you were here tonight,” he says softly, his voice filled with sincerity.

You smile up at him, the flicker of pride you feel for him still alive in your chest. “I wouldn’t have been anywhere else.”

Glen’s lips quirk into a small smile, but it doesn’t quite reach his eyes. Instead, he steps closer, resting his forehead against yours for a moment, as if silently thanking you for being his anchor. He buries his face in your hair, inhaling deeply like he’s finally allowing himself to relax fully. The warmth of his breath against your temple sends a shiver through you.

Then, he lifts his head and looks at you, his hazel eyes holding something deeper. He reaches up, tilting your chin with his thumb and forefinger so you meet his gaze fully.

“Stay with me tonight,” he whispers, his voice low, almost hesitant, like he’s afraid you’ll say no.

Your chest tightens at his vulnerability, and you smile softly, shaking your head.

“Of course,” you whisper. Truthfully, you hadn’t planned on sleeping in your own room anyway.

His shoulders relax slightly at your answer, and his lips curve into a grateful smile. He brushes a stray strand of hair away from your face, his fingers lingering at your temple.

“Come on,” he murmurs, his voice still low, intimate. “Let’s take a shower.”

You nod, letting him guide you toward the bathroom. The sound of the water turning on fills the space as Glen leans over to adjust the temperature. Steam begins to curl in the air, softening the edges of the brightly lit room.

Turning back to you, Glen steps closer, his hands finding your waist. His velvet jacket is the first to go. You reach up, your fingers brushing against his shoulders as you slide it off. It drops to the floor in a heap, revealing his silk shirt underneath. Slowly, your hands move to the buttons, undoing each one with care.

As you work, Glen leans down, pressing soft kisses along your lips, jawline and down your neck. The gentle scrape of his stubble against your skin sends a shiver through you, but the moment isn’t rushed. It’s deliberate, like he’s savoring every second of closeness he missed earlier.

“You have no idea how badly I wanted to touch you all night,” he murmurs against your skin, his voice sending a pleasant shiver down your spine.

You pause for a moment, your hands resting on his chest, and look up at him with a small smile. “I think I might have an idea,” you tease softly, earning a quiet laugh from him.

Once you’ve finished unbuttoning his shirt, he shrugs it off in one smooth motion, letting it pool on the cool tiled floor beside his jacket. Then, his hands find your hips, and he gently spins you around. His fingers trace the line of the zipper on your dress, slowly sliding it down. The fabric loosens, slipping over your hips and down your body until it gathers at your feet.

Glen wraps his arms around your bare midsection, pulling you back against his chest. He presses a lingering kiss to your shoulder, his lips soft and warm against your skin.

“You’re perfect,” he whispers, his voice thick with emotion, before moving to press another kiss to your neck. “I love you.”

Your breath catches at his words, and you rest your hands over his where they’re wrapped around you.

“I love you too,” you whisper, your voice barely audible over the sound of the running water.

After a moment, he releases you, stepping back so you can both finish undressing. Once you’re both bare, Glen takes your hand in his, his fingers intertwining with yours, and leads you into the shower. The warm water cascades over your skin, washing away the remnants of the long evening.

Inside the glass enclosure, it’s just the two of you, cocooned in the sound of the rushing water and the heat that envelopes you both. Glen reaches for the shampoo, lathering it in his hands before gently running them through the strands of your hair. His touch is slow and deliberate.

“You’re too good to me,” you murmur as he works the product into your scalp further.

He pauses, his hands resting on your shoulders as he looks at you. “Not even close,” he replies softly.

You turn your head to look at him, and his eyes hold yours for a long moment before he leans down, pressing a kiss to your forehead. “I don’t think I’ll ever be able to show you how much you mean to me.”

Your throat tightens at his words, and you reach up, brushing a damp strand of hair out of his face. “You already do,” you whisper.

For the rest of the shower, there’s no rush, no urgency—just the quiet, intimate exchange of touch and unspoken promises. By the time you step out and wrap yourselves in the plush hotel robes, the connection between you somehow feels even stronger, solidified by the quiet moments you’ve shared.

Steam still lingers in the air as the two of you step out of the bathroom, freshly showered and relaxed. You pad over to your suitcase, rifling through it for something to wear, but instead of choosing one of your own shirts, you make your way to Glen’s bag. Pulling out one of his well-worn t-shirts, you slip it over your head, the familiar scent of him enveloping you. You pair it with your favorite underwear and turn to see Glen already pulling on a pair of black boxers, his hair still damp and curling slightly at the edges.

He glances at you and his lips curve into a small, tired smile. “Looks better on you,” he murmurs, nodding toward his shirt. You roll your eyes playfully but can’t help the warmth that blooms in your chest. 

The two of you crawl onto the plush mattress, settling in side by side. The headboard provides a comfortable backrest as Glen grabs the remote and flicks on the TV, aimlessly scrolling through channels. The faint glow of the screen fills the otherwise dimly lit room, but neither of you are paying much attention to what’s on.

A comfortable silence settles between you, the kind that only comes with familiarity. Without a word, Glen shifts, leaning over to lay his head on your lap. His strong arms wrap loosely around your waist, anchoring himself to you like you’re the only thing keeping him grounded. He exhales deeply, his breath warm against your leg, and you feel the tension in his body begin to melt away.

Instinctively, your fingers find their way to his hair, gently combing through the damp strands. He sighs at the touch, the sound soft and vulnerable, and it makes your chest tighten. You know Glen is always composed in public, but here, in the quiet of the hotel room, he lets his guard down.

For a while, he doesn’t say anything, just holds onto you like he needs the connection to keep himself steady. You can feel the weight of the evening still lingering in the air between you, though. It’s not just physical exhaustion; it’s the emotional toll of the night—the highs and lows, the constant smiling, the conversations that required too much energy.

Finally, Glen breaks the silence, his voice low and raw. “It was a lot, you know?” he murmurs, his face still pressed against your lap. “The whole day… the prep, the red carpet, the cameras… smiling so much my face hurt. And then sitting there, waiting for them to call my name.”

You hum softly in acknowledgment, your fingers never faltering in their soothing motions through his hair. “It’s okay to feel disappointed, you know. You worked so hard. Anyone would feel the same.”

He’s quiet for a moment, his grip on your waist tightening slightly.

“It’s not even about winning,” he admits, his voice barely above a whisper. “I think… I think it’s just everything leading up to it. The expectations, the pressure. And then when they didn’t call my name, it was like all of that hit me at once.”

You glance down at him, his face partially hidden in the soft fabric of your borrowed t-shirt.

“It’s okay to feel this way, Glen,” you say softly, your voice full of reassurance. “You don’t always have to be the strong one.”

He shifts slightly, his eyes meeting yours for a fleeting moment before he buries his face back against you.

“I just hate feeling like I let everyone down. My parents, the team that worked on this movie with me…” His voice trails off, and you can feel the vulnerability in his words.

“You didn’t let anyone down,” you say firmly, your tone leaving no room for doubt. “Your parents are proud of you. I’m proud of you. I know Richard and Adria and the rest of the team that worked on this are proud of you too. Being nominated is a huge accomplishment, and everyone knows how much work you put into this.”

He doesn’t respond right away, but you feel him relax a little more against you. Your fingers continue their rhythmic motion through his hair, and the tension in his body seems to dissolve with every gentle stroke. The room is quiet except for the soft murmur of the TV in the background and the even sound of his breathing.

“You make everything better,” he finally whispers, his voice so quiet you almost don’t hear it.

You smile softly, leaning down to press a kiss to the top of his head. “That’s what I’m here for.”

Glen doesn’t say anything else, but his arms tighten around you, holding you close like you’re his anchor in the storm. And in that moment, you know you’re exactly where you’re meant to be—right here, grounding him when he needs it most.

[quarterlifekitty]

Stalker!RudyxReader

Get Nasty with it

cw: stalking, obsession

Despite being so handsome, Rudy has found that he has a face that blends. Gets lost in crowds. It’s easy for people to see him and think they’ve seen him before. Or meet him again and think it’s the first time.

Which is helpful in some ways. Hurtful in others.

But it works for his purposes, at least for now. You’re not ready to know that a man you’ve only met once in a professional setting happens to be in love with you.

You’re the reconnaissance assistant for the 141. He only met you face to face on one painfully brief occasion, but it was enough. He heard your voice often when you shared a communication frequency.

It made him lovesick to think of how the men in 141 got to hear your voice all the time. Did they know how lucky they were?

You’d saved his life by helping him navigate. The map they’d seen of the area had been outdated. He’d been separated from the rest and hopelessly lost. You’d been able to dig around a few different sources and find a recent map of the storm drains beneath the area. His heart pounded as the connection cut in and out, seeing the shadows of his enemies moving from the other side of the grates on the street.

But you were able to get him to the rendezvous point, seconds before they would’ve been forced to leave without him. He couldn’t express his gratitude in a way that satisfied him then. There hadn’t been time.

And it haunted him. He thought of that day— dreamed of your voice guiding him, his mind making little connections between the person he met and the guardian angel that saved him.

He saw you, no, heard you again by chance. Laugh in some hole-in-the-wall bar he frequented when he found the time. Did you know your voice sounded like a babbling stream of the waters of life immortal?

The man you’d been drinking with went out to have a smoke. Rodolfo made sure he didn’t come back in.

And yet… he can’t bring himself to approach you. Not yet. Doesn’t feel right. So he decides to keep an eye on you until it does, and not a second before. He knows what the men around here are like— you need someone like him to look out for you. The same way you did for him, no? He’s just returning the favor, in some small way.

The way he jerks off thinking of the sound of your laugh and the way the column of your throat looked when you drank was not returning the favor.

A good man is not always a vaquero, and a vaquero is not always a good man. He knows this better than anyone.

[loveemagicpeace]

🌌Lilith in Houses🌌

Lilith in 1st house- often gives an aura of mystery and intensity. People may find you captivating or intimidating because of the way you embody Lilith's energy. You exude confidence and a refusal to conform to societal expectations. This placement makes you fiercely independent, with a strong desire to define yourself on your own terms. There may be a natural rejection of norms or roles imposed by others, particularly around appearance, identity, or how you express yourself. This placement often grants an alluring physicality, whether through intense eyes, a commanding posture, or an unspoken confidence. People notice you when you walk into a room. You may exude a potent sexual energy, even if it's not intentional. This can make others project their desires or insecurities onto you.

Lilith in 2nd house- emphasizes themes of self-worth, material security, and values. This placement connects Lilith's raw, untamed energy with personal resources. You may struggle with or rebel against traditional ideas of value, especially how others define worth through money, possessions, or status. You may have moments of abundance or deprivation, leading to lessons about power, control, and attachment. The 2nd house relates to the physical senses, and Lilith here intensifies your connection to the sensual and material world. You might embrace your desires unapologetically, but there could also be guilt or societal judgment tied to indulgence or pleasure.

Lilith in 3rd house-This placement emphasizes themes of expressing your truth, breaking free from conventional ideas, and navigating power dynamics in how you share ideas and connect with others. You speak your truth boldly and unapologetically, often challenging societal norms or expectations. This directness can make you magnetic and compelling, but it may also provoke others or attract criticism. Your mind is drawn to taboo, forbidden, or unconventional topics that others shy away from discussing. Your words carry a deep emotional or sensual power, and you may have a natural gift for writing, speaking, or storytelling. Others may find your voice or ideas hypnotic, even if they don't always agree with you. Interactions with siblings or people in your close environment may involve power struggles, jealousy, or intense dynamics.

Lilith in 4th house- brings its raw, untamed energy into the domain of home, family, roots, and inner emotional life. This placement often highlights themes of rebellion against family norms, a complex relationship with the concept of home, and the need to reclaim personal power in private, emotional spaces. You may have experienced power struggles, rejection, or feelings of being the "black sheep" within your family. You might reject traditional or societal expectations about family roles, upbringing, or home life. Themes of shame, secrecy, or taboo may be present in your family history or early home life. Your inner emotional world is intense, raw, and unapologetically authentic. There's a powerful, magnetic quality to your personal and emotional space, making it a source of intrigue or fascination for others.People may feel drawn to the depth and authenticity of your emotional expression. Uncovering and embracing these truths can be part of your healing journey.

Lilith in 5th house-You have a powerful, magnetic presence and a unique way of expressing yourself. Creativity and passion are essential outlets for your individuality, often embracing themes of taboo, rebellion, or raw emotion. Relationships, especially romantic ones, are often charged with deep passion and intensity. You might attract partners who embody Lilith's qualities or experience power struggles, jealousy, or unconventional dynamics in love. There's a boldness in how you approach pleasure and sensuality, often challenging societal expectations. You may resist traditional ideas of romance, parenting, or creative expression. This could lead to unconventional relationships, artistic pursuits, or ways of experiencing joy.Early experiences might have led to suppression or shame around your creativity or enjoyment of life's pleasures. Your creative talents may lean toward the unconventional, controversial, or taboo.

Lilith in 6th house-This placement often highlights challenges and transformations in how you approach daily life, relationships with coworkers, and your sense of duty to yourself and others. It pushes you to redefine productivity, balance, and self-care on your own terms. You may resist rigid schedules, traditional work structures, or societal expectations about productivity. A desire for autonomy and freedom in your daily life often clashes with the demands of conformity. Relationships with coworkers or authority figures may involve power struggles, jealousy, or misunderstandings. You might feel undervalued or judged for your unconventional approach to work or problem-solving. Health may be a sensitive or transformative area for you, possibly involving struggles with chronic conditions, alternative medicine, or shadow work related to the body. You are drawn to healing modalities that embrace the holistic, taboo, or unconventional. Early experiences may have instilled feelings of inadequacy, leading to a drive for perfection or overworking yourself to prove your worth.

Lilith in 7th house-brings her intense, magnetic energy to relationships, partnerships, and the way you connect with others. This placement often highlights themes of power, attraction, rejection, and the quest for balance in one-on-one connections. It pushes you to confront shadow aspects of your relationships and reclaim your power in how you relate to others. You exude a mysterious, irresistible energy that often draws others to you. Relationships tend to be intense, passionate, and transformative, often involving power dynamics or taboo themes. You may experience unconventional or challenging dynamics in romantic or business partnerships.Power struggles, jealousy, or unbalanced dynamics could surface, prompting growth and self-awareness. You might feel drawn to people who reject societal norms, or you could face rejection yourself in relationships. This placement encourages you to understand the deeper reasons behind such dynamics and heal wounds of unworthiness. Relationships serve as mirrors, reflecting back your own unacknowledged aspects, both empowering and painful.

Lilith in 8th house-amplifies themes of transformation, intimacy, power, and the mysteries of life and death. This placement invites a deep exploration of taboo topics, hidden desires, and emotional or psychological depths. It often brings an intense connection to sexuality, shared resources, and spiritual rebirth, challenging societal norms and personal fears. You exude a magnetic and mysterious energy that draws others to you, often in profound and intense ways. Sexuality is a significant area of exploration and empowerment, though it may also involve struggles with shame, repression, or taboo. This placement encourages you to face fears and embrace the transformative power of the unknown. Intimate connections often involve themes of control, obsession, or vulnerability. You may attract partners who embody Lilith's intense energy or experience struggles around trust and merging. You have the ability to rise from the ashes, using these crises as catalysts for profound transformation. This placement often calls for shadow work, helping you heal wounds related to intimacy, power, and vulnerability. You have a natural ability to sense energies and delve into the mysteries of life and death. By owning your desires and vulnerabilities, you can transform pain into empowerment.

Lilith in 9th house- channels her untamed, independent energy into the realms of philosophy, beliefs, travel, and higher learning. This placement emphasizes the rejection or rebellion against conventional ideologies, societal norms, and traditional education. It invites a journey of self-discovery and truth-seeking, often through unconventional means and experiences. You challenge traditional or dogmatic belief systems, often feeling at odds with societal or religious norms.A strong desire for freedom and independence drives your pursuit of knowledge, travel, or spiritual growth. Authority figures in education or religion may have tried to suppress your free-thinking nature. This placement often brings a resistance to being told what to believe or how to live. You are drawn to alternative philosophies, esoteric studies, and taboo topics in your quest for meaning. Your worldview is likely to be eclectic, shaped by personal experiences rather than traditional teachings. There's a strong pull toward adventure and experiences that push boundaries, whether through travel, education, or spiritual practices. You may seek the forbidden or dangerous, craving excitement and growth through bold exploration. Your wisdom comes from lived experiences and a deep connection to life's mysteries. This placement often indicates a powerful spiritual journey, marked by rejecting imposed beliefs to uncover a more authentic spiritual truth. You may explore mysticism, astrology, or other non-traditional paths.

Lilith in 10th house-This placement often highlights challenges and growth opportunities in navigating societal expectations, personal ambition, and how you present yourself to the world. You may feel drawn to careers or public roles that challenge societal norms or explore taboo topics. You might have a complicated relationship with authority figures, including bosses or societal structures. You exude a mysterious, captivating energy that can draw attention and admiration, though it may also provoke jealousy or criticism. Your public image may fluctuate between admiration and misunderstanding due to your unconventional approach. Early in life, you may face rejection, judgment, or struggles in gaining recognition for your efforts. These challenges often serve as catalysts for self-empowerment and a more authentic expression of your ambitions. Your professional life might involve subjects considered taboo, such as sexuality, power dynamics, or esotericism. You are deeply attuned to dynamics of power and control in professional settings, often learning to navigate these strategically.

Lilith in 11th house-This placement emphasizes independence, social dynamics, and a desire to challenge societal norms in the pursuit of authenticity. You may feel uncomfortable conforming to the expectations of social groups or communities. There's a strong desire to break free from groupthink and redefine what it means to belong. Your friendships may be unique, unconventional, or even controversial, with a strong attraction to those who share a sense of rebellion or independence. You may often be drawn to outsiders, misfits, or people who challenge the status quo. You have the potential to bring powerful transformation to groups or social causes, especially those that focus on personal freedom, equality, or unconventional ideals. Superficial or shallow group connections may feel limiting or draining. You seek deeper, more authentic bonds that allow you to express your individuality. Lilith here can give you a forward- thinking, progressive mindset, pushing you to question what the future of society or humanity should look like. You are likely to question the ideals, beliefs, or systems upheld by larger communities or society as a whole. You may also experience moments where you are marginalized or rejected by groups, only to later realize your own strength and independence.

Lilith in 12th house-channels her intense, mysterious energy into the subconscious, hidden realms, and the more shadowed aspects of life. This placement is often associated with deep, internalized struggles, the uncovering of repressed desires, and confronting hidden fears. Lilith in the 12th house often symbolizes the suppression of deep, primal desires or emotions, sometimes due to societal taboos or personal insecurities. There may be a tendency to keep hidden parts of yourself buried or to hide from your own truth, often because you fear being judged or misunderstood. This placement gives you a profound connection to the subconscious mind, where unacknowledged parts of yourself-such as hidden desires, fears, and traumas— reside. Lilith here can lead to a sense of isolation, whether physical or emotional. You may feel misunderstood or disconnected from others, yet this can also lead to profound self-reflection and inner growth. The 12th house is often associated with the spiritual or mystical, and Lilith here can indicate a deep, intuitive connection to unseen forces or the collective unconscious. Lilith in the 12th house challenges you to confront the darker, repressed parts of yourself, especially those parts that you may have been too afraid to acknowledge. There may be an unconscious resistance to control, authority, or restriction, often manifesting in self-sabotage or passive rebellion. You may unknowingly reject what others expect of you or what society imposes, especially when it conflicts with your internal truth. Therapy, shadow work, or spiritual healing practices may be particularly transformative for you, allowing you to release old wounds and reconnect with your authentic self.

-Rebekah🪄☁️✨

[just-a-ghost00]

Connection check in part (2)

To check part 1, click here.

Your current energy

A. B. C.

Their current energy

1 2 3

Their current energy - Group 1

I get a very calm and steady vibe from this person regarding you and the connection. I feel like their expectations, intentions and feelings towards you are very clear in their mind and heart. The energy feels very balanced and mature. I get the impression that they feel very good in your presence and treasure the bond you share. When it comes to you, they are very open minded and have a "go with the flow" attitude. They do not overthink your intentions or feelings because I feel like they are pretty confident about their own and they have a lot of trust and faith in the Universe. This person has a very spiritual vibe. They cannot focus on their daily tasks because you are constantly on their mind. This person spends a lot of time day dreaming about you, visualizing how being with you would feel like. I get the impression that they would be okay with taking things further if you verbalized it. However, I get a frustration feeling coming from this person with that "turn your tongue 7 times in your mouth before speaking". I feel like this person is upset that you do not trust them. I'm getting the message that any fear you may have about this person is not true. For instance, if you're thinking "they must not like me because I'm too this or not enough that", spirit wants you to know that you're wrong. What you dislike about yourself may very well be what they love about you. This person would like to communicate with you more. They have a lot on their plate that they want to share but I get the feeling you're not letting them in. However this person knows that they cannot force you so they are chosing to surrender and let you see for yourself how serious they can be. They want to give you the time and space to figure out on your own how they really feel and think about you. They do not intend to run away. It's like they're saying "I'm here and I will not move, if you want me I'm okay with it and if you don't that's also cool". This person is ready for any outcome within this connection because they've made their peace with the fact that they cannot control everything and that you have free will. Though, they have a very precise vision of where they want this to go and I feel like they will do everything in their power to get there. This person is determined and rather than feeling defeated by your resistance, it actually motivates them to try harder. They have their eyes set on you and they do not intend to give up any time soon.

Their current energy - Group 2

The person that's on your mind is chosing to set their fears and doubts aside, to ignore people's opinion and give your connection a chance. I feel like they are slowly but surely opening their heart and trying to come to terms with the idea that love doesn't have to be a struggle all the time. That not everyone in this world is trying to harm them and that there is good both in and around them. I am mostly getting air sign energy from this spread but I also pick up on Pisces and Taurus. I get the energy of someone finally accepting their dreams and letting themselves experience everything they didn't dare to do before. They're finally embracing themselves and letting themselves be seen for who they are. They are done fighting, resisting love and finally letting themselves receive. I feel like this person struggled with their self worth and they are healing that part of them through this connection. By chosing to love you and giving this connection a chance, they are also chosing themselves. They are turning the tables over and doing what feels right to them for once, instead of following others' unsollicited advice. I feel like this person never once did something for themselves and now they are finally making their own well being a priority. They are finally daring to dream and imagine what this connection could become but also what they could become. They are cutting ties with toxic patterns and people that did not serve their highest good. This person is also realizing that whenever they were acting off within this connection, it was because they were projecting their own fears onto you. They understand that though they may be different from your past connections or from what you are used to, it does not make them any less worthy of your affection. They are finally seeing their own beauty and chosing to let that beauty be shown. They are healing their heart at their own pace. For some of you, your person may be taking their distances with you to further connect with their own truth. They need time and space to see the good in them if they wish to let you in. I sense a desire to start anew and take back one's power. The energy feels very peaceful here. Almost dreamy. I feel like this connection is taking a new turn now that they have gained clarity and done some shadow work. They have a lot of affection for you but they may have realized that what they loved in you was also within themselves and that they should honor that as well.

Their current energy - Group 3

Blue could be your person's favorite color. In terms of zodiac signs, I'm getting Gemini and Taurus mainly, also Leo was mentioned on the Azurite card. There's a lot of throat chakra activity going on here. There may have been communication blockages within this connection in the past. Your person has realized that they treated you poorly in the past. That their fears played a huge role in the connection's imbalance and communication issues you were facing. Through your interactions and the effect of this connection on them, they have been faced with a lot of their shadows. They needed a lot of courage to be able to overcome their fears around intimacy, being vulnerable and truthful around you. This person may have told you harsh truths or spoken badly of you behind your back and they regret their actions. This person understands that their judgment of you was false and when they were being judgmental towards you was because what they saw was a reflection of a part of themselves they couldn't embrace. This person was afraid of the depth of this connection and the depth of their own feelings in your presence. They were not capable of embracing the light that was shining on them thanks to this connection you shared. They were just not ready for it. With that understanding of the dynamics of your bond, this person is now choosing to be mindful and to see the truth. They are chosing to leave the past behind and move forward, renewed and rejuvenated, ridden of all their fears and judgments. Whether they choose to give you a chance or to go their own way, this person is not the same anymore. They are letting in more love into their life and softness that they didn't allow themselves to feel nor express. They may want to communicate with you about their awakening. I also get the feeling that spirit has been working behind the scenes to help this person get out of their state of confusion and see the connection clearly. Illusions were destroyed, their ego was quieted down for their heart to be allowed to shine through. When you met them, this person may have been struggling with depression, which you could have been aware of or not. I feel, thought, that your person did not want to admit that they were not okay. But interacting with you, they came to see that some things in their life needed to change. Some cleansing was needed. Most of it was in their mind I feel. It's like they failed to perceive you or themselves in a good way because their mind was clouded with negative self talk and false perceptions of love and relationships. Maybe they rejected you because of cultural differences or other factors. I'm specifically picking up on differences in communication styles or language barrier. Also, I'm getting a strong feeling that this person's friends played a huge role in them rejecting you. There were people around them that did not see your closeness in a good light and they attempted to get your person to hate you. Like spreading false rumors about you dating other people or saying stuff like "I heard group 3 doesn't like you, they spoke badly of you to their friends". But somehow your person came to understand that this wasn't true. I'm not sure what got them to change their mind about you but I really get this strong impression that they see you in a different light and have taken a new found interest in you.

Decks used : Crystals oracle, Threads of fate shadow edition, I don't care oracle deck, Soul truth oracle deck, Enchanted forest oracle cards, Beast Soul oracle cards, White Numen Tarot light edition, Spirit Junkie Oracle, Des potes en ciel Oracle

[star-graven]

i have 4 planets between those houses, as well as one of the nodes. who knows on asteroids.

as much as i don’t like it, this seems true! i will say there seems to be some wiggle room for me if we’re talking about *ideas*—sharing about those casually can boost them and let them get momentum as other people get excited about them. i would connect that propensity with my 4 placements in my 11th and 10th houses (11H for bolstered by community, 10H for public role + goals).

If you have any 12H or 8H placements do NOT talk about your goals. Write them down and keep them secret. They will manifest better!

[world-of-wales]

LAURA WARSHAUER SHARED SNIPPETS FROM HER TIME AT ST ANDREW'S WATCHING WILL & CAT FALL IN LOVE ♡

Laura Warshauer had a front row seat as a result of her close friendship with the pair. Whether it was William helping to carry her luggage, Kate comforting her on a night out, or just having a quiet drink in a cosy corner of a pub together, those memories live on.

Her interactions with them are something few can share – teaching Kate how to play the guitar, William buying her first ever Jack Daniel’s and Coke, eating takeaway food together or laughing and joking during road trips.

Speaking about her time at uni she said :

‘I graduated from school a year early and then spent what would have been my senior year at high school in St Andrews. It was a beautiful moment in time.

I wound up getting a front row seat to the very beginning of what would become one of the greatest and most iconic love stories of our time. It’s great to see Will and Kate, the same people they were then, on the world stage.’

Talking about their form life, she recalls that she'd her mother’s lasagne recipe and her aunt’s toffee – for William and some of his friends as well as chatting with him during meal times in the ‘Harry Potter-style’ dining hall.

William & Laura sitting together for the art history 02 class photo (fun fact william changed his course like 2 weeks later to geography)

She said:

‘Will lived down the hall with two of his friends from Eton. Kate lived on the floor below.

‘I met them the same week they met each other. I was struck by how normal Will was. You could talk about anything – the most mundane things.

'Coming back from a trip home to New Jersey with my big luggage, Will would grab my bag and take it inside the dorm.

‘We were all just trying to find our way. Even if you’d been at a boarding school like Eton, people were still in a new environment.’

‘I remember I made dinner for everyone on my birthday in December and Will brought me a gift – a stuffed animal from Tesco.

It’s a seal with a blue backpack with stars on it. It’s in a place where I can see it every day and I’m like, “How cool”. It’s adorable.’

Laura said Kate and William had instant chemistry and fell for each other months before the 2002 fashion show where Will saw Kate modelling and described her as ‘hot’ :

‘We went to a party at a castle. It was a Harry Potter theme and they did an auction for charity where people were bidding to win a date. Will bid £200 to win a date with Kate.’

This is the Glamis Castle Birthday party from 01 where Catherine was pictured with Olivia Bleasdale

While Ms Warshauer doesn’t know what they eventually did for their date, she remembered Kate’s reaction was effortlessly cool – showing she was unfazed by titles and comfortable around him.

She spoke about Kate extricating William from an uncomfortable encounter:

‘It was early on when Will and Kate were getting to know each other. This girl was talking to Will, and he was being polite, but it was obvious he needed a way out .

‘All of a sudden Kate walks up from across the room, puts her arms around him and enables him to turn to this other girl and be like “I’m sorry, I have a girlfriend”.

‘And then he turned to Kate and silently mouthed the words “Thank you”. I remember thinking at that moment that no one but Kate could have done that.

‘They had just met each other but it was clear they had a connection.’

Speaking about her friendship with The Princess of Wales she said :

‘Kate saw that I was upset one night while we were out. I was walking ahead so people couldn’t see that I was upset and she came up and put her arm around me and said “I hate seeing people I care about upset”. You remember these moments.’

A photograph of Kate and Laura taken in the town’s camera shop in 2001 shows their friendship. A trip taken to find equipment for Laura's CBS audition tape filming:

‘As you know, Kate loves photography, she loved it then. Even in her dorm room I remember the beautiful photos.

‘She and I went to the camera shop together to get everything we needed and then she filmed the audition for me.’

Laura had shared a photo on social media of herself and Kate – taken at a 19th birthday party during their time in St Andrews – in a show of support for the Princess following her treatment for cancer.

This party seems to be Oliver Baker's birthday. He's one of W&C's close friends and one of George's godparents.

Speaking about it she said:

‘The interest is even greater now than it was the first time.’

Reminiscing about the party where the photo was taken, she remembers that she had just been to Paris to visit her sister who was studying there. The outfit she has on in the snap is one she bought during that French adventure.

Even that trip to Paris had started with another cherished moment with WillCat. She said:

‘Kate and I were supposed to ride a taxi to the airport together but then Will gave her a ride so I got in on it. I love how he offered her a ride and that’s how I got to go.

‘It was so cool to arrive in Paris and be like, “So guess who gave me a ride to the airport?”

‘The radio was on and Will was like, “Laura, you can sing with the radio”. It was just like popular music. It was sweet that he made that reference to me as a singer.’

[vampirehizzies]

... as friends, or as something entirely different. you understand one another, and you're partners in crime. you became friends under the strangest circumstances. and they help you feel alive. (x)

[luniviravosshipper]

I keep adding posts to my drafts to reblog later and then forgetting to actually reblog them, and this is yet another one.

Anyways, was initially going to include my thoughts on this in the tags but then it’d be too long.

I originally had mixed feelings when I first saw this. I won’t elaborate on why or what specific feelings, but I did.

But now looking back on this post, I’m personally interpreting the connection made between these scenes as pointing out the parallels between Aaravos and Viren as characters. Because they do parallel each other in a lot of different ways, which includes them both reflecting each other’s self-righteousness. I mean, look at the way Aaravos has basically adopted Viren’s most famous phrase (“however dangerous, however vile”) as his own personal mantra this latest season. He sees himself as this all powerful being, bringer of chaos onto the world and uses his own perception of morality as complicated to disregard the moral bearing consequences of his actions he is expected to uphold and abide to.

So him complaining about other people’s self-righteousness, particularly the dragons and elves, is kind of interesting. Because it’s sort of hypocritical. And it actually seems to mimic Viren’s own views regarding the elves and dragons, whether justified or not, in the beginning of the series. And, not to mention, but it’s also been repeatedly pointed out by others how Aaravos has projected his own views of the dragons and elves onto Claudia to the point that as a result she has so deeply internalized Aaravos’ own outlook on them that she’s based a good of percentage of her sense of self-worth on her use of magic. Because what seems to be the main divider between the humans and the dragons and elves is magic, since humans weren’t born with a connection to primal magic so they were viewed as less then and weak by the elves and dragons. (There’s so many things to be said too about Aaravos’ own decision to gift humans with dark magic instead of greater access to primal magic, and that can also tie in very heavily too to Aaravos’ struggles with self-righteousness, but I’ll share my thoughts on that some other time.)

But, I think it’s hard to say for sure if Aaravos can really be called a hypocrite. I’m not going to examine this too much here. I just think it should be noted that Aaravos doesn’t actually seem to care at all how in the wrong in the end he is or how wrong his actions are. At the end of the day, the only justification for his actions he uses is the unfair and unjust loss of his daughter. But otherwise, he’s hardly at all following any sort of moral code in his actions. What I’m trying to get at, if I’m not making sense so far, is that I think Aaravos isn’t not trying to be a hypocrite and doesn’t even mind if he is one and therefore I’m actually not sure if he can be considered truly one because he’s not actively denying being one or going out of his way to present himself as anything but a hypocrite. Like, in his head no matter what he does or how morally wrong it is anything he does is automatically justified by his loss so he can’t be considered a hypocrital or even really that bad of a person. (Hence, why it was revealed he considers himself innocent when he was talking to Ezran and being judged by him.)

Does that make sense?? I don’t know. I’m sorry, I have a lot of thoughts spiraling about Aaravos in my head.

s1 / s7

[paintedlight1]

Part 2

Her plans for the West are clear: to conquer and reshape the world into a place ruled by the Zeniths, where the human tribes are subjugated or eradicated entirely. But Alpha doesn't see herself as just a servant of the Zeniths—she sees herself as their true heir. She wants to be the one who rules, the one who controls the fate of humankind.

In her eyes, Aloy is the last remaining obstacle to her achieving this goal. And so, she sends her newly transformed allies to kill Aloy—no mercy, no second chances.

Alpha’s Psychological Warfare

The real danger with Alpha lies not just in her enhanced strength or intelligence, but in her ability to break people down emotionally and mentally. She would never just kill Aloy. Instead, she wants to torment her. She enjoys watching others suffer, especially when their suffering involves the betrayal of those they hold dear.

Erend might have been a pillar of loyalty and friendship, but Alpha sees his bond with Aloy as a weakness to exploit. She knows how to manipulate his grief, playing on his sense of duty and guilt over the loss of his sister. Alpha could twist his emotions, making him doubt his own memories and ultimately turning him into a weapon against Aloy.

Kotallo, the noble warrior, could be pushed to the edge by Alpha’s psychological tactics. His honor is everything to him, so Alpha could use his sense of honor and duty to manipulate him into believing that Aloy is the true enemy of the West. She might even promise him an eternal place of honor within the Zeniths' new world order, using his dreams of a better future to turn him into an agent of destruction.

Zo is a natural tactician, and Alpha could exploit her strategic mind, turning her into a manipulative agent of war. With her intellect and tactical knowledge, Zo would make a fearsome foe who knows exactly how to undermine and defeat Aloy in battle. But with Alpha controlling her, Zo could become a calculating machine who sees no value in the old world, only in creating the perfect one under Zenith rule.

Alva, whose emotional fragility might have made her susceptible to manipulation in the past, could be twisted by Alpha’s promises of a new order—one where the old world’s constraints no longer bind her. Alva’s intellectual brilliance would be harnessed for Alpha’s advantage, allowing her to design weapons and tactics to defeat Aloy’s every move.

Varl, once a mentor figure, is perhaps the most tragic of all. Alpha could exploit Varl’s sense of family and duty to break him down, making him believe that the future Aloy seeks is futile. She could twist his deep connection to the past, using his memories of his family and his painful loss to turn him against her.

Beta: The cruelest irony of all—Beta, who once shared a sisterly bond with Aloy, has been turned against her. In this version of the story, Beta may still harbor some shred of love for Aloy deep inside, but the Zenith transformation has buried it beneath layers of Alpha’s manipulation. Alpha could use Beta as a final instrument of betrayal—having her face Aloy in a direct confrontation, perhaps forcing Beta to kill Aloy, only to leave her with the unbearable knowledge of what she’s become.