#and I have to learn to juggle full time work

[ladyzayinwonderland]

🌱

[thelaundrybitch]

Heard you're busy with school!!!! Good luck!!!! AAAAA you're so smart ur gonna ace it

Some happy Leo tippy taps

Calves......calves.....��🤤

GORNACK!!!!💖

Oh my goodness thank you 😭

I AM super busy with school. I just started August 26 and I'm already swamped with homework 😅

I love it though, I can't even lie.

Especially because I'm going for what I love - writing!!!

I'm going for my BA in English so I can pair my Occupational and Environmental Safety Management degree with writing 🙌🏽🎉

It's actually just a secret ploy so I can write better smut

ANYWAY

Thank you so so much for your kind words and for being there to cheer me on! It means a lot 💖🫶🏽🫵🏽

And thank YOU for that lovely Leo gif 🫠💙

[13eyond13]

.

[hwaslayer]

the space between us three (jyh) | two.

⇢series masterlist | series playlist

⇢summary: while juggling the demands of life, yunho continues to do his best to raise his independent 11 yr old daughter, seora. throughout the years, they've built a strong foundation, an unbreakable bond— one that consists of late night talks and food runs, father/daughter dates, and sideline cheerleading at her basketball games. so when you unexpectedly come into their world, things shift. despite the uncertainty and the fear of stepping outside of their comfort zone, yunho and seora eventually learn how to open their hearts and learn how to rebuild a home where three can thrive together.

⇢pairing: single dad!yunho x f. reader

⇢genre: (18+ - minors dni) strangers to lovers, single dad au | fluff, angst, eventual smut

⇢word count: 4.3k

⇢chapter content/warnings: cussing, the cliché coffee incident pls forgive me lol, parents pushing expectations, honestly not much but an intro to y/n and her family - bit of a filler chap!

"Can you visit mom and dad this weekend with me?" You nibble on the rest of your ramen while you wait for your brother to respond. You're currently sitting on a table outside near the trees, taking your lunch under the shade.

"Can't. I have plans with the boys."

"Wonwoo." You sigh.

"What? I promise, I'll head up there the weekend after. You can come with if you want. Sorry. I just planned this ahead of time and can't go back on my word now."

"Fine." You sip your water and toss your trash onto your tray before standing and throwing it into the appropriate bins.

"What, has mom and dad been on you again about us not visiting?"

"Kinda, yeah? You know how they always make passive aggressive comments because we don't come to see them often." You grab another cup of coffee, taking your time mixing it with half and half and some sugar. "It's always 'you two are always too busy for your parents!' or a 'it doesn't even take long to visit your parents!'" Your younger brother sighs as you quietly hand over some cash to the mobile coffee shop attendant.

"I know, but they also don't understand we've got our own things going on, too."

"I guess, yeah." You lick your lips and take a small sip, being careful enough to not burn your tongue from the scorching temp. "We really should do better, though."

It's not that your parents were bad. In fact, your parents were amazing. They had brought up both you and your younger brother comfortably and happily, sending you both to the best schools and supporting you until you two were able to fully walk on your own two feet, soar high with your own two wings.

It truly was just life.

You had gotten busy; always working at the hospital, growing from the bottom up, barely taking any of your vacation or sick days. If you did, it was because you had to or else you'd reach your max, or because you truly were rotting away in your death bed from a bad flu or food poisoning.

Otherwise, you were always at work. You were always with your girls. You were always going to lagree or bootcamp style studio classes. You were always doing something to occupy your time— mainly work. And the same thing goes for your brother, younger than you by 2 years.

He's just a boy.

But, he's your brother and you're incredibly close to him. He was always listening, was always good growing up. Would always protect you, especially from dumb boys and fake friends. He got good grades and went to college overseas before moving back home and settling down. Since then, he's always learned how to be on his feet— barely ever staying stationary. He, too, was always out with his boys. Working as a full-time software engineer, working out. Traveling when he gets the chance. Dating every now and then. But, you do love that he's living life and spending time with good people. He seems to have a good balance between his work and personal lives, which makes you happy.

It's just unfortunate that you two can't seem to manage slipping in more time with your parents. You both had agreed to do better about it, especially with your parents getting older.

"Are you still gonna see them this weekend, or are you gonna wait for me?"

"Yeah, I'll pop in for a second. I already told them I'd swing by."

"Hm." He hums. "Tell them we'll stop by for longer next weekend."

"Yeah, after I get the earful first." 

"They won't." He clears his throat. "So, how's work been? Ate lunch well?"

"Yeah, I did. Work's been kinda crazy. They're opening this new department at the main hospital and it's expanding into the pediatrics side, too. We've been gearing up for it."

"Oh, really?" You nod as if your brother can see you.

"Yeah. They've been working with adult patients for their two studies, but they're going to start their pediatrics study soon. Pending on the IRB approval. But, once that's all good, they're hoping to secure their first patient, and we need to have everything ready to go."

"That's pretty cool."

"It is, but kinda hectic. Too many moving parts and people involved. It's a lot to keep up with."

"I'm sure you'll handle it well. You always do." You let out a small sigh before checking your watch and slowly walking back towards the peds hospital. 

"Hope so. Work's been okay for you?" He chuckles.

"Same old! Nothing much has changed. Not like that, anyway."

"I see. So, what happened to that one girl you were seeing recently?"

"Uh, we're just better off as friends."

"Better keep that to yourself before mom starts setting you up on blind dates."

"Same goes for you. She'd probably go for you first. Been tryna marry you off." You roll your eyes.

"It's not my priority and she doesn't get that."

"She wants a grand baby and lowkey, I kinda want a nephew or niece to spoil, too." 

"You're no help." He snorts. "Anyway, I gotta head back to my office and get some work done, I got a big meeting for that new department later today."

"Alright. Well, text me when you get home and try to take it easy."

"I will, you too, punk." Wonwoo chuckles. "Love you."

"Love you too!" And with that, the call ends. Your eyes are glued to your phone as you continue to walk back towards the hospital. The weather isn't too bad today, a slight breeze hitting your skin to balance out the warmth from the sun. You continue to switch between keeping your eyes in front, back down to your phone as you scroll through social media to catch up to things you've missed over the past few hours. When you finally get into view of the familiar building and the side lobby entrance, you slip in and head straight to the elevator without paying much attention— especially when it dings and slides the doors open for the individual behind to step out. You feel a soft thud; your body slightly coming into contact with theirs, causing some of your coffee to spill out of the opening on the lid. 

"Oh— oh shit, I'm so sorry!" You look at the tall figure, wide-eyed as you survey his outfit to make sure your coffee didn't spill everywhere on his jacket.

"You're good." He says, eyes coming down to his jacket. There's a few drops of coffee dripping down near the zipper, but nothing that can't be fixed.

"I'm soooo sorry." You repeat as you dab a napkin at his jacket.

"No, seriously. It's fine. You're good." He laughs, brushing you off in a friendly manner. "Nothing laundry can't fix."

"Still another piece to add to your load." You look up at him and slightly pout. "Sorry."

"Maybe just be careful next time?" He gives you a small smile before he brushes past and out of the elevators. You realize he's got his large hand still propped up to prevent the elevator doors from closing on you, and you can't help but feel extra embarrassed. You do a tiny nod before he lets out a small chuckle and walks away, allowing you to be in your peace as you slip into the elevator and watch the doors close in front of you.

It just had to be him.

you: i almost spilled my coffee on a really cute guy ☹️

wonwoo: he'll def never come near you again. way to go sis 💗

you: you're a piece of shit

wonwoo: 🥰

You click your teeth and sigh as you step out of the elevator and onto your floor. You had been working as project manager supporting the pediatrics unit for about a year and a half now, starting at the hospital a few years ago as an admin associate and slowly working your way up.

"What? What's wrong, hun?" Your coworker and also one of your childhood bestfriends, Noeul, chimes in. She works as an HR manager, but her team sits nearby— giving you two the numerous opportunities to chit-chat and catch up in between meetings and tasks.

"I almost spilled my coffee on some really cute guy." She purses her lips together before giving you a toothless smile.

"I mean, you didn't, right?"

"No. Maybe a few drops. Now he'll have another piece of laundry to add to his load. All because of me."

"That's a good way to be memorable." You sigh. "I'm sure he wished he got your number."

"Wow, you're the complete opposite of my brother and I love that." She laughs.

"Of course, I'll always support you."

"How'd your meeting go?" She shakes her head.

"I don't know. So many sensitive issues. I think they only keep escalating and getting worse."

"Are you still dealing with that one manager and her staff member that weren't getting along?"

"Yup. That's exactly the thing that's getting worse."

"Sheesh. I hope they find middle ground soon, or at least find new avenues so they don't have to work with each other."

"Hope so too!" She looks at you. "When's your big meeting with the hospital people?"

"Hm." You hum and check your watch. "In the next hour." You settle at your desk and she follows along, sitting on the edge of the corner. "My inbox blew up over lunch so I gotta take care of a few things before I head over." You sip on your coffee.

"My busy bee." You give her a look. "Goodluck! Let me know how the meeting goes. I've gotta file a few reports and hop into a few other meetings myself. I'll see you later for a quick break?" You give her a small smile.

"Goodluck to you, too." She blows you a little kiss before she's prancing away to her desk, greeting people on the way over. You busy yourself before you need to start packing up and heading over to the main hospital, drowning in a few urgent emails that came in over your lunch break. Time sure flies when your brain is scattered everywhere, your to-do list seemingly never-ending and tossing you in a million different places at once. 

You gather your things about 10 minutes before the meeting, which, doesn't give you much wiggle room in case you get lost. You don't go to the main hospital often, and you're not even sure if you have access to the room or how all of this would work. You are familiar with a few people also attending the meeting, but they're equally just as busy and are probably coming from other commitments. 

You let out a small breath as you power walk over to the main hospital, happy you're at least getting your steps in for the day. You trickle into the huge lobby along with others, turning towards the left where the elevators are located. You press the button, waiting alongside a visitor as the elevator makes its way down from the 6th floor. You step in and patiently wait off to the side, checking your work calendar on your phone to make sure the meeting was indeed today.

Why does it feel like you're the only one heading over?

Were you the only one late at this point?

You step out of the elevator once you make it up to the 7th floor, pausing in your steps because— where the fuck do you go now? It was such a maze in this hospital, you didn't know whether to go left or right; the numbers on the doors skipping from one number to another. You turn to you right just because you go with your gut, hearing a trail of soft voices as you finally see a group of people heading towards a huge conference room further down [and definitely closer to your left had you just turned that way]. You pick up your pace, nodding and sending soft smiles to the familiar faces that catch you through the window of the room as they settle into their seats. Rushing over, someone is stationed at the door— probably waiting for you to make it inside.

"Thank you— oh, hi." You look up at the same, tall figure you damn near spilled your entire cup of coffee on.

"Hi." He gives you a toothless smile as he holds the door open for you. "Well, at least you aren't ramming into me with your cup of coffee this time." He jokes and you can't help but feel the heat rise to your cheeks.

"Yeah, mm'sorry about that still." You wince and slightly pout.

"I'm just joking. No worries. It happens." He smiles down at you, waiting for you to walk into the conference room. You give him another subtle, short bow before slipping into a chair on the opposite side of the table. You watch as he greets people coming into the room, a bit confused as to why he's still standing by the door until he finally sees the face he's been looking for. 

He's got some kind of wit, some charm. Can't deny it's pretty attractive.

And to your surprise, he plops down in the seat next to you, followed by one of his team members [the said face he'd been looking for] you assume.

"Hope you don't mind."

"No, not at all." He gives you another toothless smile before eyeing your badge. 

"Nice to meet you, Y/N." He puts out a hand for you to shake. "Yunho."

"Nice to meet you as well, Yunho." You shyly respond. "At least I don't have to call you the guy I almost spilled all my coffee on anymore."

"Yeah, no." He laughs. "This is Taehyun, my team lead. Taehyun, Y/N." You and Taehyun give each other small, curt bows just as the higher ups step in and settle at the front of the room. 

"Hey everyone! Thanks for meeting. I know everyone is super busy so it's much appreciated." Yoori says as she flips her laptop open and pulls up the agenda slide on the powerpoint presentation. The meeting kicks off with small introductions around the table since a lot of people hadn't worked together like this, especially you and a select others mainly supporting pediatrics. When Yunho introduces himself, you find yourself enjoying the way he speaks. He's got a deep tone, but nothing off-putting. He speaks lightly and positively, chuckling in between statements.

Yeah, he's def got a witty charm to him.

When it's your turn to speak, you can feel Yunho's eyes from the side. He's paying attention and listening closely even if these are quick introductions to the team. He notices the way you shyly smile at those around you, still managing to speak clearly and concisely despite your nervousness that's physically manifesting in the way that your hands tug on the material of your jeans, fiddling with your fingers underneath the table in between the conversation.

Cute.

Then, after the light, airy introduction portion, the presentation gets a lot more technical, and you find that you're actually more involved in this than you expected. You're being asked to oversee the development of the clinical trial room in the pediatric wing, along with scheduling biweekly meetings to discuss updates. Making sure all required attendees are at the meetings and driving things forward. Coordinating across calendars, providing updates every step of the way.

And things seem to be picking up, moving real fast. Things were stalled and slow just a few months ago; now, it's all gas, no brakes.

When it comes to dealing with the ordering structure and IT developments, Yunho takes the lead and discusses the current updates and how they're still figuring out a few tweaks. Yoori is diligently taking notes on her own laptop, along with everyone else who is clarifying through questions of their own.

"Y/N, can you please work with Yunho and his team and the clinical informatics team to make sure the patient ordering enhancements will be taken care of and pushed through? Along with securing the data storage and network? I'll send you the list of required attendees that need to be at each meeting to help push these efforts forward. Let's prioritize this and try to get that done within the next week." You nod, glancing over to Yunho afterwards. He's got his chin resting on the palm of his hand and his eyes dart down to you. His brows perk up before he gives you a tiny, toothless smile. You feel your hands get sweaty from the look alone, so you divert your attention back to your laptop— typing up the rest of your notes on the side. Yunho can't help but glance over at your incredibly organized notes and the way your emails are categorized; all the folders within folders. 

Never-ending folders.

Definitely Type A. 

He does like that, though. Can't help but feel a little endeared by it. 

As the hour long meeting progresses, you feel yourself getting slightly overwhelmed by your growing task list. You can't help but feel an itch to get to your desk to scribble in your planner and get your thoughts organized. 

And as soon as the meeting ends, you cut out with quick goodbyes before rushing over to your office. Yunho was hoping to catch you afterwards to talk a little more, but he watches as you leave, the opportunity now a long gone thought. 

"Where'd you go?" Sian, your other good friend, asks. She's in the finance department, and typically comes over to check in with you and Noeul, especially when she has to drop off some mail for the peds hospital. "You and Noeul were both gone."

"I had that meeting, remember?"

"Oh shit, yeah. How'd it go?"

"I don't know." You plop onto your desk and let out a huff, pulling your planner from your bag before pulling up your notes in the cloud on your desktop computer. "So many things to do and everything feels so urgent." You've already got a few people to meet, along with pushing the operational aspect of this huge project. You've got your hands tied.

"Wow, they're moving fast with this."

"Yeah, very." You shake your head as you write out your thoughts, suddenly pausing to look back up at her as she fiddles with the figurines on your desk. "Hey, do you know the IT managers well?"

"Most of them, yeah."

"Do you know Yunho?"

"Jeong Yunho?" You shrug since you didn't really catch his badge on him. "He's the only Yunho I know of. How could you not know him?"

"Girl, I'm mostly on the peds side, I rarely come to that end." You giggle.

"He's handsome as hell. Tall. Super nice and helpful. Him and his team are so good about coming to the rescue ASAP." Sian nudges you and wiggles her eyebrow. "He's a single dad. I believe his daughter is 10? 11? Probably 11."

"Mm, dad of a pre-teen girl."

"Hey. He's making it." Sian shrugs. "Heard he's a really good father despite losing his wife years ago. I'm sure it must have been incredibly hard." You nod.

"Yeah, I can only imagine."

"He's good friends with Park Seonghwa from marketing. I think they're besties or something." You nod. 

"I only know Seonghwa from the one interview I did with him when we did the remodeling project at the peds oncology unit. After that, barely have spoken a word to him."

"He's a little hottie, too. But, I heard he's got a thing going on with Yoori."

"Yoori? Like.. Director Yoori?" Sian nods.

"They're so weird about it, though. Definitely not known publicly, but people have seen them out together a select few times. Or, seeing Seonghwa go to her house."

"Nosey." You laugh.

"Well, it's definitely a small world around here." 

"Hm." You hum. "So interesting, especially after I just saw her. I would have never suspected."

"What about Yunho, though?"

"First, I almost spilled my coffee on him this morning." Sian nods.

"Why am I not surprised?"

"I'm not that clumsy." 

"Mmkay." Sian laughs. "How much coffee?"

"A few drops." You make a face. "And then he ended up being in the meeting and sitting right next to me." 

"See, big hospital but small world." You chuckle. 

"Feels like college."

"Yeah."

"Speaking of Yunho." You furrow your brows when you see a little notification pop up in your Slack app.

yunho: hey! 

you: hi there! you found me!

yunho: 😀 sorry, i tried to catch you after the meeting but you rushed out. 

you: oops, yeah. i just had a few things to catch up on. 

yunho: all good! do you wanna schedule some time to meet before scheduling the wider meeting with everyone else? i can walk you through everything so we're on the same page.

you: sure, yeah! that'd be helpful. i'm pretty free next week. i just prefer not to schedule anything over lunch if it can be helped. 😅

yunho: i'm the same, don't trip. lol. i'll send you an invite for early next week. what time do you get in usually?

you: mm, around 7:30-8am.

yunho: hm, wanna do 10am on monday then?

you: good with me. ☺️ thank you, yunho!

yunho: sure thing!

"Aw, he even went out of his way to message you." Sian watches you exchange messages from behind.

"Girl, please? We need to talk about getting the patient ordering system together and fixing all the infrastructure for the peds unit." 

"Sounds like you'll be working with him closely? I'm actually kinda surprised his team is on this. Not saying they aren't great, but they're a bit smaller and support other departments." Sian ponders for a bit. "The other IT teams are pretty swamped though, now that I think about it. They probably have the best bandwidth right now."

"Who knows. But, yeah. I guess so. His team lead was also there."

"Maybe you'll get close to Yunho."

"Maybe I won't and just get my job done while minding my own business."

"Y/N. You're single and he's single, don't be so quick to cut him off just because he has a kid. You should put yourself out there again." She teases and you roll your eyes.

"Get out." She snorts. You hate that she's a little right about it; it had been awhile since you were in a serious relationship. You might've messed around with an old college classmate a few times, but it was so casual it ended up fizzling out all by itself and that was that. It's not like you had any bad relationships, either. They just weren't a fit, but you didn't hold any bad blood towards each other. Your mom was tired of it, though. She was hoping you'd finally stay in a serious, committed relationship— one where you'd end up walking down the aisle, settling down in a nice family home, one or two little ones running around [or more, she wouldn't be mad about it]. Maybe that's why you also dread visiting home, because she never fails to remind you that she's waiting, and that time doesn't wait for anyone. She gives Wonwoo a piece of it, too. 

Just not as much as you.

It's always this game of comparison, trying to one-up her friends in some fashion. It's frustrating to deal with. She didn't understand that you were good with where you were at. And even if you did long for a partner and affection in that sense, it's not like you could wish for it to happen and change your life overnight. These things take time. These things need to develop naturally, wholeheartedly, genuinely;

It wasn't your time yet, you guess.

"Anyway, are we still having our little girls night at your place tomorrow?"

"Mhm. Just gotta visit my parents first then I'm all yours."

"Ah." She nods. "Is your brother coming along?"

"Nope. Next weekend, though."

"Goodluck, sweets. Tell us all about it when we come over." Sian looks at her watch. "I was gonna try to wait for Noeul, but I guess she got caught up in some things. I should head back." You nod. "See you tomorrow, my love."

"See you." She smiles before giving your shoulder a gentle squeeze and turning on her heel to take her walk back over to the main hospital.

As the afternoon rushes by, you're able to dock off a few more things on your list before feeling satisfied enough to call it a day. You decide you're a little too tired and worn out to be driving elsewhere for food, so you'll pop into the main hospital cafeteria.

wonwoo: did you spill your coffee on anyone else today?

you: no 🫥

wonwoo: [sends money]

wonwoo: go get a massage or something dude, relax

you: are you serious?!

wonwoo: yeah. 🙄 got a lil bonus from work, so if i'm eatin, you eatin too i guess.....

you: best brother award 😭

wonwoo: u don't mean it

you: i do!!! ily!!! 💕 i'll never call you bighead again!

wonwoo: yeah u def don't mean it

You giggle to yourself, feeling comforted by your brother even at a distance. The thing about your relationship with Wonwoo is that you two were always sharing in each other's ups and downs— good days, bad days. There was never any competition or need to feel like one had to do better than the other, thankfully; and this was a prime example of how close you and your brother were. You truly can't wait to hang out with him next week. You adore him to bits.

As you head back to the main hospital to grab food for dinner before leaving for the day [you definitely prefer the food there], you catch Yunho speaking to one of the nurses on her way out. She's blushing, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear while she laughs. Yunho looks nervous, but he's keeping himself pretty composed by the way he's smiling and laughing along with her. You brush past them quickly, and you aren't sure if Yunho noticed you or not— not like it matters, anyway. 

He was definitely asking her out. And by the looks of it, she said yes. She had been wanting to say yes for awhile. 

Welp, there goes the really cute guy you spilled coffee on. 

It wasn't your time yet, you guess.

⇢taglist: @asjkdk @interweab @woojirang @svintsandghosts @cheolliehugs @persphonesorchid @mxnsxngie @jycas @cowboydk @nopension @curse-of-art @thechaotictheoryy @likexaxdaydream @dalsuwaha @enha-stars @yasuraokaa @professormingisglasses @yunyunrin @pommelex @astral-trashcan @laura1399 @domfikeluva @tournesol155 @hwaskookies @yusalterego @hwa-stars @hyukssunflower @chngbnwf

[mamawasatesttube]

im mildly bitter that fanon only ever does "superboy doesn't know tim drake is robin!1!" and Never goes "tim doesn't know that kon-el is conner kent and is having a terrible time trying to process that he has a crush on two people at the same time because somehow he's twisted himself into knots like a balloon animal and convinced himself he's committing the thoughtcrime of thoughtcheating despite not actually being in a relationship with either boy".

like. give me tim meeting a pleasant kinda dorky farmboy who loves his grandma and going on a long introspective inner monologue about how it would have been nice to have a simpler life where he didn't have to lie to his family and juggle responsibilities blah blah blah blah.

he doesn't even know.

because. well. on the other side i think kon juggling "i have a secret identity so secret that no one even knows i have a secret identity. and it's not just me. if they ever find out i have a secret identity they'll start wondering if superman does too, and i can't fuck this up and air out superman's biggest secrets!!" during a version of the yj tim identity drama era... well, it could be something. could be fun! guy who HATES lying to his friends but hates the idea of letting superman down even more, caught between a rock and a hard place.

and on the other side is tim, the strugglerrrrr, in full balloon animal mode because conner kent is really sweet and dorky and it's kind of endearing. this guy's learning to knit from his grandma, but he's shy about it and got really embarrassed when tim saw him working on a wobbly scarf. but also kon-el his friend kon-el ... he knows kon-el, he fights by his side, they've saved each other's lives, they hang out at the young justice hq pool or play ping pong and bicker about the cultural relevance of wendy the werewolf stalker. he's tying himself in knots in his brain. help him (don't help him it's funny to watch him struggle)

[deadsetobsessions]

AU of Gotham! Tim Drake! Danny where he doesn’t know the universe he was reincarnated into.

“Robin!” Batman barked. Tim sighed, loudly. Batman twitched.

“What is it, B?”

“Drills. Again.”

Tim rolled his eyes but moved to obey. Speaking to B these days was like speaking to a rather boorish caveman. Simple grunts and single word sentences. It didn't use to be like this but B was loosing his grip on his humanity and it’s Tim’s job to bring it back.

It’s hilarious because he’s the least human of them all. It was odd, juggling his duties as Danny Gotham, his responsibilities as Tim, and his workload as Bruce’s shiny new Robin. Somehow he made it work.

Yeah, sometimes B’s hands are heavy when they’re training. Sometimes he forgets Danny’s name (or at least his human name) and calls for Jason instead. Sometimes, he smells more like booze and less like Bruce.

Danny could handle it. Even if his core quivers with grief. He wished he didn’t have to, but he could and will handle whatever he needs to for his Knight to regain himself. But fuck, that doesn’t mean taking his self destructive habits lying down. He might be Tim right now, but as far as Batman knew, Tim was here on the orders of

“B.”

“Hm.”

Oh, a neutral grunt! I see we’ve upgraded to grunts instead of arm flapping! Holy detective, Batman! Aren’t I glad I learned to speak cave man? Wow! Tim mocked, in his head.

“You’re heading to bed when I’m done with this set,” Tim said.

“This case isn’t done,” Batman growled. Ancients, it was like speaking to a large chihuahua-toddler hybrid. All the barking, all the growling, and all the petulance of a child makes the entirety of how his Knight acted on a good day these days.

“That wasn’t a suggestion,” Tim shot back, sore arms and legs and everything working through the set. Thank the ancients for his healing, or else Tim might actually be dying.

“You don’t give me orders, Robin.”

“No, but Gotham does.” He would know, considering Tim was Gotham.

The head full of greasy- ew, take a shower, B!- hair swiveled towards him.

“You have a direct line to Gotham?”

Tim settled into the final forms of the night. “Gotham sent me. I thought we went over this.”

A beat of silence.

Batman returned to clacking away at the computer. Tim finished his set in relative peace. He moved to the cool down stretches while Batman sulked in front of his computer like a five year old.

“I’m done.” He said, crossing his arms.

“Hm.”

“That means you’re done, too.”

“I’m not tired.”

Tim rolled his eyes so hard, he thinks he saw the light. Oh, wait, that’s just Bruce’s last brain cell dying.

“You’re heading to bed. Good luck finding actual crime tomorrow, if you stay up.”

Batman stilled, because he knows Gotham would back Tim up on the threat. Considering the time sensitivity of some of these cases, Gotham’s anger is not something he could risk.

Tim patted himself on the back for effectively playing the good cop and the bad cop on his own. Except ACAB for life because they’re vigilantes and the GCPD as a whole (with exceptions) sucks ass.

He watched as Batman- as Bruce- reluctantly powered down the Bat-Computer. As he stood up, Tim wrinkled his nose.

“Never mind. You take a shower first. I’ll text Alfred.”

“Not necessary.”

“Okay, then you can explain to Gotham why you’re traipsing through his city looking a starved rat and smelling like you took a joy ride in Killer Croc’s excrement. Oh, wait.” Tim snapped, just about done being patient today. Tim whipped out his phone, texting Alfred with one hand and pointing towards the staircase with the other.

“Shower above ground, you weird little mole rat. No cave water for you.”

Bruce makes a weird offended grunt.

“I literally don’t care if you have to walk up to your room to shower in your boxers, B. Most of Gotham’s people don’t have access to a shower, let alone a million dollar bathroom. Fucking use your actual bathroom instead of hosing off.”

And with that, Batman and Bruce Wayne moved to the tune of a pre-teen, who was also, unknowingly to him, the spirit of his City.

——

“Go home.”

Tim smiled sweetly. Bruce paled. The scary, Gotham loved child patted Bruce’s hand as he sat beside Bruce’s bed.

“Sleep, before I make you.”

Bruce slammed his eyelids shut, anything to not look at Tim’s malicious looking eyes, and allowed himself- nay, forced himself- to rest for the first time in weeks since Jason died.

As Bruce’s dumb self drifted off to dreamland, Tim muttered, “Wuss.”

He settled himself into the chair, napping lightly to make sure Bruce doesn’t sneak out to work when he’s gone.

Alfred snapped a quick picture.

[reverieblondie]

Be Sweet to Me

Chapter 1

Pairing: Miguel O’Hara X Fem!reader

Warnings: None for this chapter, but there will be eventual smut, Pining, and teasing. For now- Fluff and Miguel struggles with grumpiness and realizing his touched started, but he's just over worked. Alternating POVs

Summary: People say many things about you're co-worker, and sure he's not the most social but you won't give up being friends with him! Little do you know Miguel is juggling so much in his life, and getting used to you is proving to be more difficult than he thought.

A/N: I am so excited to be finally be making this series! The Alternating pov's is different than what I normal do, but I think it works best for this story! This is heavily influenced by the song Be Sweet by Japanese Breakfast. Unsure how many chapters this will be, so look out for updates! if you would like to be tagged please comment to let me know!

Word count: 3,447

Part 2

“Y/n, I need you to organize the samples and make sure that all the documents are in order before the meeting.” 

Giving a slight huff you stop your work, turning on your heels to face your coworker.

“Okay, but what's the magic word?” you playfully tease with the slightest hint of condensation. 

Turning his head you see the unenthused glare in his eyes despite them being shaded behind the round tinted glass. You're still not fully convinced he needs those things inside, some kind of light sensitivity he's explained once but you suspect he might just like the cool guy aesthetic it gives him. Though you wouldn’t blame him if that was truly the case, it does look kinda cool. 

Face scrunched in that way you have gotten used to seeing over these past few months since working here at Alchemax. Chiseled jaw clenched shut, his full lips pressed in that iconic frown, thick brown hair styled back to try and tame the unruly waves, and tall bulky figure that you used to be intimidated by, (okay, sometimes you still are) but you have slowly adjusted to your co-worker: Miguel O’Hara. 

He stared at you for a beat before turning back to his work without another word, his oh-so-subtle way of telling you to shut it and do as you're told. “Alright alright, I’ll get it done. Don’t have to tell me twice.” 

One thing you have learned about working with Miguel is he may not always speak with words so if you want to create an effective work area with him you have got to be good at reading his expressions. Working with a guy like Miguel had its challenges, for one his mood: he's not exactly the easiest to get along with, and people call him cold or cocky depending on the day.  

Then there was how busy he kept himself, always working on something, typing on screens, working with experiments, or tapping away at that clunky watch of his. Even on the days he’s not around due to him ‘working from home’ you can tell just by his face that he hadn’t given himself time to rest. What on earth could keep a man so busy? Well…you had an idea or two… 

Despite his grumpy demeanor you were determined to become friends with Miguel. It didn’t matter what others would tell you about him or how much he distanced himself, you saw the subtle glances, the repressing of smiles, the slight cracks in the shell, You two would become buddies you were sure of it. Maybe he just needed someone to show him the effort, to be sweet to him, then maybe he could lighten up and bring his walls down.  

Pulling out all the stops nothing was going to stop your attempts, you were always nice (even on days where that was particularly hard) Helping with things he didn’t ask of you, organizing and cleaning up behind him. Coffee was always a winner, you knew exactly how he liked it too, you kept making different attempts then stopped on the one where he wasn’t making a face while he took his first sip. -Success! 

Then there was the friendly encouragement, pats on the shoulder, and high fives. Sure he seemed hesitant to them at first but he slowly became used to them, baby steps. 

Every passing day was closer and closer to your friendship blossoming!

Magic word…was she serious? Why should he say please? It's her job to listen to what he tells her and do what he says considering he’s worked here longer. Miguel keeps typing away at his computer, lamenting in his mind how his co-worker was quite the character. 

Miguel couldn’t deny that having a co-worker who was tasked to help him in all his research did help him out more than he would ever admit. Having to juggle the secret identity of Spider-Man, being the leader of the spider society protecting the multiverse, and having to keep his role as head geneticist in Alchemax. Everything could get taxing very quickly on him. Layla was a great AI assistant but she was limited, so having an actual person tagging along to help him with work was bearable, though…you were a bit exuberant and that was taking some getting used to. 

The jokes, the odd habits, your clumsiness, the smart remarks you mumbled under your breath, your overwhelming friendliness. All this he could begrudgingly handle, but the thing that was still overwhelming him was the touching! Sometimes it wasn’t even touching at all you would just be so close.

First noticing it when you would stand so close that he would accidentally bump into you, if he was looking at a sample you were leaning over him to watch. You had no spatial awareness, running into him, running into things! The first month of you working here you broke so many things by running into them he thought they would run out of beakers.

Then the friendly gestures started happening. Miguel was used to people keeping their distance, meeting his gruffness, but you…oh no…you must have seen it has some challenge! The encouraging words, patting of his shoulder, spontaneous high fives, squeezing past him in tight areas, adjusting his coat for him, dusting off crumbs from his chest! Your Friendly proximity made him tense, it was…new and different, and he didn’t know how to handle it.

Though it could be worse, you could be a completely useless idiot. To Miguel’s surprise you did have a brain in that head of yours, so the trade-off for actual decent help was some playfulness from you he would just deal. It’s not like he wasn’t used to playful coworkers, the spider society made sure of that. Still, you were different…and that blossoming tingling your touch would leave on him…it was…annoying.  

Miguel's eyes move over to you as he watches you begin the task of organizing the samples and getting everything prepared for the meeting. Begrudgingly he was tasked with having to explain the recent studies and developments the two of you had made. The meeting was honestly bullshit, he hated having to report to the chairman, but they liked to keep a thumb on Miguel, making sure he was still their best brain. In fact, you had offered to take over and run over the presentation for Miguel but they denied that, had to be him…bastards 

For a moment you turn your head and look towards Miguel meeting his eyes, you shoot him a thumbs up and a smile, that friendliness still shining through. With an annoyed huff, he turns away getting back to his work. Still adjusting…

The two of you worked diligently for a couple of hours, in silence of course, there was no time to get distracted with chatting when so much needed to be done. Rubbing his hands over his face he could feel a wave of extortion taking over him. Sleep was something he wasn’t getting regularly, there was just never enough time in the day so sacrifices must be made. 

Eyes growing heavy and vision slightly blurring he feels himself slipping, but he can’t, he won't. Then a shrill alarm begins to blare from Miguel's wrist snapping him back awake. Miguel is quick to place his hand over his watch and sneak out of the lab unnoticed, lucky for him you were too concentrated on your work to notice his absence. Checking the message on his watch, it is a local emergency, something he can handle in fifteen minutes tops. With a quick few cracks of his neck, he's leaving to save the city again. 

Stretching feeling accomplished in yourself getting everything prepped single-handedly. Roaming your eyes around the lab you note the lack of bulk in the room. Huh, no Miguel? He must have done one of his disappearing acts again, probably just going to lunch without you. Invite yourself to lunch with him one time and now he doesn't even tell you when he's going. Matters on that guy, oh well, you might as well go get something before the meeting anyway. Coming to a stopping point you gather your things for a nice quick bite in the cafeteria. 

“I can’t see how you can work with him.” Ah, so much for a nice quick bite…

Sitting there trying to enjoy your lunch it’s the usual suspects who come to sit next to you, talking more at you and around you rather than to you. You can’t help but think that this annoying tinge you feel is what Miguel felt when he was ambushed by you. Though you couldn’t have been as annoying as these people. Complainy and gossipy types are not the best combos with your meal. 

Their subjects range from many topics like complaining about work, to failed experiments, personal problems, idol gossip, then it lands to the one directly aimed at you…Miguel. As soon as the question is asked you're looking up from your food to see all eyes on you. Chewing quickly and swallowing to ask your question. 

“I’m sorry what?” 

Sophia groans, “O’Hara, how can you work with him?” 

“Uh, well he does his thing, I do mine?” 

Julius chimes in “Isn’t he a total dick to you though?”

Cassidy is now giving her input to the topic, “Oh I can only imagine what you go through on the daily.” 

“Well ac-” trying to interject, you can’t even get a word in till you're being cut off by one of them.

“Yeah! Like I bet he is always bossing you around.”

“And probably insulting you in some way,” 

“One time he called my team brainless idiots because we messed up one small thing” -it was not a small thing, that took you and him an all-nighter to fix…

“That was-” you try again only to be cut off once more.

“Oh, and he is always being rude!” 

“God, how can you work with that monster!” 

With that last comment you had it, the noise wasn’t meant to be as forceful as it came out but they kept cutting you off and then bad-talking your research partner, you were fed up. Slamming your hands on the table with a hash slap, effectively silencing them, you rise from your seat grabbing your tray in the process. 

“If you have issues with him you should speak to him like he’s a person. He’s not some monster. Sure, he is not exactly social, but if this is how people talk about him behind his back it makes sense why he keeps his distance... I've lost my appetite, excuse me…” 

With that, your lunch break was over. 

“Spider-Man!” 

“You saved us!” 

“He’s a hero!”

“But…he’s kinda a jerk…”

“Didn’t he punch an old lady before?”

“I thought she punched him?” 

Uhhgg…would anyone ever get that story right? Miguel is prying the last bus hostage off him as they cling tightly to him. The vulture from his dimension was up to his usual antics but he made quick work of him and was now cleaning up the shocking mess. Having to save the people from the bus was no big deal, it was the pushy reporters, camera lights flickering in his face and the clingy person keeping themselves pressed to him that was the pain to deal with. Taking deep breaths he’s trying to keep his cool, but he can feel himself threatening to boil over. 

How come he can’t just ever save people and leave? Why was there always this extra crap to deal with? Finally getting the person off and seeing that all of what he could do was done he's trying to get out of there, but people can be so pushy…

Questions, Comments, Flashing lights, Praise, Criticism…he couldn’t help but snap, 

“Get out of my way! Leave me alone! And for shock's sake, try to learn to protect yourselves!”  

The crowd was shocked by this sudden outburst, but this should have come as no surprise from the grouchy hero. Spider-Mans in other dimensions were always known for being friendly, witty, funny, and nice to all they saved, Miguel didn’t exactly follow this blueprint. Miguel didn’t exactly mean to sound rude, just being a hero gets exhausting and patience was something he needed to work on. 

Miguel hears the gasp and murmurs amongst themselves about how he’s a dick, a jerk, arrogant, blah, blah…

Rolling his eyes, hidden underneath his mask he couldn't help but think of how irrational these people could be, say one thing the public wasn’t fond of and they are at your throat. It’s all of a sudden no longer how he just saved a busload of people, or saved the city by defeating a villain; No, now it’s about how rude he was. 

“Jerk!” 

“Boo!” 

“I hate you Spider-man!” -great…this just makes everything so much better with this thankless job. 

Swing off before the police come to further irritate him. As he swings back to Alchemax he’s wrapped up in his thoughts. This hero thing was not easy…everything he did wasn’t right, not what people wanted…he was always messing up in some way…nothing was ever good enough, he had to stretch himself thinner and thinner, keeping everything together. The pressure is immense…

Getting back to Alchemax, he changes and tries to resume back to his work, the fight had successfully woken him up but now he’s starving. Eating like sleep has also become a thing he has had to cut for the sake of time, but something quick should be fine before he gets back to work.

Stopping by the cafeteria Miguel immediately spots you sat by Sophia, Julius, and Cassidy, not good company for you to keep. Well honestly anyone, they might catch their stupid. Making sure to be as unnoticed as possible last thing he needs is you trying to wave him over to your table. Coffee with a bagel is all he needs to grab so he can make his escape back to the lab. Grabbing a coffee that thankfully wasn't made by you, his sensitive ears can’t help but catch what's being said at your table. No surprise it’s about him. 

Listening in he is catching fragments of the conversation sipping his coffee trying his best to ignore the meaningless conversation, till a remark of him makes him pause at the threshold of the entryway. 

 “How can you work with that monster!”

Monster…huh…is that how people see him? Mutated, sure, grouchy, and tempestuous maybe, But a monster. A ping in his chest makes his hands tighten around the cup. Talons threatens to poke through but he resists. If they want to see him as a monster then so be it…he doesn't care…

Suddenly, a slam, followed by your familiar voice catches him by surprise,

“He’s not some monster. Sure, he is not exactly social, but if this is how people talk about him behind his back it makes sense why he keeps his distance”

“Not some monster…” Your words can’t be helped from echoing through his head. You sound so angry, you never sound angry. Looking over he sees your face furrowed in a glare. He didn’t think your face knew how to do that. Watching as you walk away in a haste away from the table he's leaving to his usual eating spot hidden away from others. 

Taking his shades off in the empty break room he dims the lights down as he sinks into one of the chairs. Finally getting even a moment of a break, even taking time to peacefully relax he finds he is unable to. Even sitting leaning back he still feels teased, irritated, stressed. Trying to shut his mind for even a moment, a second of a break he finds it to be an impossible task. But as he sits, his usual stresses fade to be replaced by your words. Miguel could have cared less about what those idiots had to say about him. The surprising thing was that you were defending him…not that he needed it… but it was…kind of you…

Taking a bite out of the bland bagel he groans to himself, annoyed. 

It's almost time for the meeting and you're pacing outside the doors with everything ready to go, except you haven’t seen Miguel anywhere. Running behind is a thing you are not used to from him, he’s usually so timely but you haven’t seen him at all since he left for what you thought was lunch. Did he get caught up doing something else?

 Minutes tick by and you're growing more anxious by the second. Would he just not show up? It’s a possibility, but he would be putting both your asses on the line, though he didn’t have to worry much about that, they wouldn’t fire their best brain, but…you're a bit more expendable.

Before you can continue thinking about your ass being on the chopping block Miguel is rounding the corner adjusting his coat and walking in a casual strut. Looking at him as he approaches you notice his appearance looks a bit different. That shirt does seem a bit wrinkled and his tie is completely messed up from earlier. What has he been doing? Mid-day workout? Did he have an accident in the lab and have to go change? But the clothes are the same, just wrinkled.

Or was he doing something else… Thinking for a moment over what you could be doing that would cause messed up clothes an image of a sweaty grunting Miguel pops into your brain. Pushing down the thought with an internal slap to yourself you decide to greet him as friendly as possible. 

“You're running behind Miguel” -okay you can’t help but tease him a bit. Friends rass each other all the time. 

“Yeah, got…caught up in something…” he speaks hesitantly, suspicious…

Miguel gets ready to go inside but you quickly grab him by the shoulder to get his attention “Hold on there, you can’t go in there looking like that” 

Turning to face you, he looks at you confused then looks down at himself, “What? I look fine.” 

Scoffing, you roll your eyes and point to his chest where his tie is haphazardly knotted together in a rushed fashion.

“Your tie” Before he can protest your hands are already getting to work losing his tie gently, “Let me help you” 

With the silk tie undone hanging down his chest, you're moving your hands to raise his collar. As you concentrate on the task your eyes are fixed on his neck you observe that as your fingers slightly brush over his warm skin his body teases slightly. Straightening his neck, you know he’s about to say something.  

“Why are you nice to me? I know what others say about me, so how come? Are you trying to pity me?” His voice is stern and this isn’t what you were expecting out of him right now. Did he hear you earlier? 

The slight laugh that escapes you couldn’t be helped. Moving your hands you cross the two ends to tie in a classic Windsor knot. “Leave it to you to think someone being nice to you is just a ruse to pity you. I just want to be nice to you.” 

Remaining silent you continue to loop and twist the tie, your knuckles blushing over him, you swear you see his skin pickle up for a moment with a slight shiver. Finishing up, you tighten it to his neck and carefully fold his collar back down, keeping your eyes on your work at hand, you watch as his Adam's apple slightly bobs as you adjust it properly. 

Sliding your hands to the silk tie you brush your fingers down the soft fabric straightening it while laying down flat against his chest. The feeling of his chest tightness under your fingertips and his breath seems to be slightly slow, you don’t know if he is hating this or being relaxed by it. 

Meeting his eyes, they are unshaded for you to observe their burgundy hue. His face is still stern looking but you know this one has that slight softness in his eyes, meaning his listening, he is waiting for you to speak again. 

“I want us to be friends, simple” 

Miguel's lips slightly part as if he was about to speak, but before he could the conference room doors opened with them calling Miguel in. Turning to you there is a look on his face you're not completely used to, but that will have to wait for now. Giving a quick pat to his chest you smile up at him. 

“You got this Miguel, good luck.” 

[uniquedinosaurdreamland]

Lionesses x Reader

-Spiderman and Cinderella-

Cute little start to a maybe series xx

Lionesses x Reader, Lionesses x R!Children!

🌷

Your whole life was flipped upside down at sixteen. You were on your way to become an amazing football player, playing the the U17’s Lionesses as well as in the Liverpool Academy and were deemed one of the best upcoming players. But It all went down hill when one night at a party you got drunk, slept with a guy and before you knew it, you were standing in a bathroom with a positive pregnancy test staring right back at you.

Conversation after conversation followed with family, friends and staff about what to do next. You had managed to contact the boy from that night only to get ghosted and to find out he had left town the next week with his family.

You support system was made up of the best people in your life, being there with you through everything even when learning that it wasn’t just one baby but two. Nine months later your beautiful twins were born, Theo Luka Y/L/N coming out first followed by his sister Maisie Luna Y/LN. Your heart was full from the moment your babies were placed into your arms and you knew you would give them the world and more.

Nobody expected you to return back to football but just four months later your were back in the academy, juggling school, football and your twins but in the end you made it work. Now fast forward three years with your two bundles of joy now being three years old you were on your way to your first senior call up for the England National team.

You were the last to arrive at St George's Park due to having two bubbly, energy filled toddlers who refused to wear anything beside a Spiderman costume for Theo and a Cinderella dress for Maisie. Arriving just in time for dinner, you left your bags as you were notified someone would take up to your room that only held you and the twins.

There was no time to be nervous when entering the dining hall, having two of the most extroverted toddlers ever they didn’t waste anytime in rushing through the doors and towards the food. Taking no notice of the many eyes that snapped to the two toddlers, like always in their own little worlds.

“Slow down guys, I will get your food. Be patient please.” You ran in after them, smiling apologetically at the chef who didn’t know what to do with two kids babbling at him in a toddler language he couldn’t quite understand.

“You got some energetic kids there.” You turned around to the voice of Sarina, smiling as she pulled you into a hug before bending down to the twins levels. “Hi, my name is Sarina. What are your names?”

Maisie and Theo looked up at you simultaneously, making sure to give them a small nod to tell Sarina their names. “Spiderman” Sarina let out a laugh at Theo’s answer.

“Well nice to meet you Spiderman, and I am guessing you are a princess.” Sarina turned to Maisie after shaking Theo’s hand gently.

“I am Cinderella.” Maisie said poking out her chest in pride, you couldn’t help but smile as your new coach stood a curtsied to Maisie, the toddler letting out her tiny giggles that never failed to melt your heart.

Sarina stood with you as you grabbed plates and filled them with food you knew Theo and Maisie would like, lucky for you they were absolutely angles when it came to eating, when they were younger both of them even ate dog food for you childhood dog that was set out at your parents home.

“Two hands.” Placing the tray carefully into Maisie’s hand. Unbeknownst to you Leah and Lucy had stood from their respective tables and made their way towards the group of you.

“Need a little help there mister?” Leah bent down grabbing the tray from Theo’s hands to her own as he saw the young boy struggling. “You wanna come sit with me, I’m Leah.” Theo once again looked warily at the blonde stranger reaching behind him to tug you shirt, causing you to turn around.

“Hi.” You couldn’t help but be awestruck at the two world class defenders in front of you, managing only a small greeting.

“Hi, I’m Leah I can take this little guy to come sit with me.” The blonde greeted showing off her trademark smile.

“Oh god, you really don’t have to.” You said shaking your head knowing Theo was in his most energetic mood and he was eating his dinner which meant he was very messy.

“Mummy I want to go.” You looked down surprise at Theo.

“Okay then off you go, I want all the veggies gone when I come check.” Not another word was uttered from your three year old as he happily took Leah’s hand as she led him to her table that sat Keira, Georgia, Beth, Jordan and Katie. You didn’t even notice Maisie was already sat at a table with Lucy, Rachel, Millie, Mary and Alex.

“What just happened?” You said to no one in particular, Sarina laughing and patting your back.

“You got free babysitting, just go with it.” Sarina smiled before making her way back to the staff tables.

You didn’t have to worry about where to sit cause as soon as you turned around from grabbing your plate the loud voice of Ella Toone rang out calling you over to sit down at a table that held herself, Alessia, Lotte, Esme, Lauren and Chloe. Your nerves shattered away as you fell into a comfortable conversation with the group of girls, not taking any note to the conversations your twins were having with some of Englands best.

“Is your Mummy good at football?” Rachel asked Maisie who was stuffing her face with food, sat comfortably in her chair that had four cushions stacked to keep her in level with the table.

“My Mummy is the best, she gets all the balls in the net.” Maisie smiled at Rachel who she had now named Ra-Ra, the three year old having a nick for coming up with nicknames for people with names she deemed to hard or long to say.

“She sounds pretty good.” Millie smiled at the little girl across the table.

Back at the table Theo was sitting in he was telling a long story about how he was going to be the best football player ever. “What position?” Keira asked the boy, who thought about his answer for a sec.

“Keeper like Jordan Pickford and Mary Earps.” Theo replied with a big smile on his face.

“Yo, Mary you’ve got a future keeper here, says he wants to be like you and Pickford.” Georgia yelled to the table Mary was sitting at, she caught Theo’s eye giving him a big smile and thumbs up.

“Theo what happened to becoming a striker like your mum.” You said to Theo having caught wind of the conversation that was happening across the room.

“Keepers at the unseen hero’s of the game.” You jaw dropped as the three keepers around the room cheered at your son’s words.

“Who told you that? also your veggies better be done.” Your son’s face dropped from his sly smirk into a annoyed face as he looked down at the broccoli and carrots on his plate that you knew for a fact he did like but just didn’t eat it straight away to annoy you.

Having lost track of the time as everyone sat and talked you looked down at your phone to see it was the just about time to put the twins to bed, knowing they were bound to crash soon you knew it was time to get them to bed.

What you hadn’t expected to see when you stood up to grab the two toddlers were both of them fast asleep Theo in the arms of Beth and Maisie asleep in the lap of Millie, looking tiny in comparison to the brick wall.

“It will never seize to amaze me how they always fall asleep with everyone else but me.” You smiled at Beth who gently passed Theo into your arms.

“You’ll be back down right we are all just hanging out down in the team room.” Leah asked before you could step away from the table.

“As soon as these two are settled I will be back, by the looks of things I will be back very quickly.” You smiled at the table walked over to the other table where Maisie was cured into Millie’s chest.

“I can bring her up.” Millie immediately offered, making your heart melt at the kindness from all these women just on your first night.

Soon enough with Theo in your arms, Maisie in Millies as well as Rachel tagging along for the ride you made it up to your room without any toddlers waking up. “Was it hard to come back from giving birth?” The question came out of no where from Millie as you placed Theo into bed.

“I though about not doing football and just giving up all together, I was sixteen, still in school with twins it was almost impossible to do it. But football is everything to me and I really wanted to come back and I knew if I worked hard enough I could make it my career. It was hard, but even getting this call up makes it feel all worth it.” Millie and Rachel nodded along to your words as you placed both twins on one of the beds, making sure to set up a baby monitor in case they woke up.

“They’ll be fine in there?” Rachel asked.

“They’ve had a long day i’ll be very surprised if they wake up before I come back to the room, they somehow always wake up when they feel my presence come back.”

Coming back to one of the team common room everyone was sitting around in their different groups. You decided to join a group of the younger girls who were playing a game of uno.

“I’ll deal you in.” Alessia said smiling up and giving you seven cards to play the game.

You were able to play about two rounds with Niamh taking the win for one round while you took the win for the other. Most of the girls also had a big travel day so everyone headed to bed early including you, waving goodnight to Esme and Lauren who took the room beside you. You quickly entered the room quickly checking on the twins, getting ready for bed and falling straight asleep.

[etheries1015]

Adult (20+) MC finally figures out how to properly make money, BESIDES working for Azul. Become not only the prefect and be a student, but an on the call designated therapist!

"Crowley, really. I'm far older than the other students, it is not my fault the mirror has brought you a full grown adult rather than another proper student! I finished all of my schooling where I am from, I do not wish to repeat it along side these....kids!" You had complained to him. Well, what was he to do? The mirror had obviously chosen you to be at that school, you had no other merits at the time to offer him, and to simply put it...without a way to go home, what else could possibly occupy your time in a world in which you know nothing about, than gather intel by throwing yourself into the most prestigious of schools? The answer seemed obvious at the time, until you realized just how bad it was.

Teenagers are still teenagers, after all. Especially a bunch of teenage boys surrounded by...well... Other teenage boys. Magic or not, they were still going through any other mental struggles as any normal human. However, putting magic into the mix had surely caused you some...extra unprecedented grief you had never needed to worry about in your world. After what, three? Four? Overblots and life endagerment exibitions, you had an epiphany. With extensive knowledge of the human brain system, life experience, and a plothera of coping mechanisms under your belt, what better way to open the door than to become none other than the designated student body therapist?

With some rather convincing techniques, you had managed to convince Crowley to, as you put it...

"Let me take this off of your plate! You are so busy being such an amazing head master running this school as perfectly as you are, I understand the durasic increase of overblots have your hands tied behind your back! As you know, I am an adult with ample experience in the field of mental health. Although I don't have the documents to prove it as much at this time seeing as they are back in my world....I just know you will not regret hiring me as a therapist."

A few more convincing lines (and perhaps a week of pestering, begging, manipulating-- I mean convincing , he had eventually hired you as the school therapist! With, of course, the expectation that you had to take an additional class to further certify you were able to properly do such a job. (You were kind of mad a bout that, seeing as you knew you were qualified, but hey. Pick and choose your battles I guess. At least you managed to get by with a couple additional classes, instead of a million years of schooling.)

You had a personal office in ramshackle, an empty dorm becoming suitable with your own personal desk, computer, book shelf, and another necessities. You had a location in the main building, the room connected to the nurses office had been refurnished as your main office. Book shelves of self care, items for fiddling with, bean bags, posters with encouraging words, and a desk full of papers, along with other needed items graciously funded by the school (you threatened Crowley at one point, accusing him of not caring of his students.) Of course, being on call meant students may drop by the dorm at any given time for your aid and expertise, so the ramshackle dorm lounge was also redecorated suited for sessions that were a bit more casual.

But of course, you also managed to juggle your studies as a student, wanting to continue to learn about magic. Working on the call was nice, keeping your phone on and excusing yourself whenever official work called for you. Unless you rather not be a student, that is fine, too. Full time therapist work may be the job for you!

Helping students heal one tragic back story at a time seemed perfectly fitting. (You just wanted to finally get paid and recognized for what you were already doing.)

[rose-of-red-lake]

I feel like the Bear is exploring how some people just aren't cut out to have "normie" romantic relationships, particularly people in obsessive, meticulous, high stakes, high pressure jobs.

Carmy started a relationship at the same time as he started a restaurant. Uncle Jimmy was right to say "uh oh:" the result is a disaster, where he ultimately decides he can't juggle both, and chooses his restaurant people (ie Syd). I was happy with this decision because hell yeah, Syd does deserve his full focus. She is busting her ass and he is out here going to parties? The injustice.

But I learned that other viewers didn't like this decision. They saw it as "unhealthy" that Carmy thinks he doesn't deserve a life outside the kitchen, and that it's a personal flaw if he can't find time for both. They want him to end the series with Claire because it would mean he's freed himself of restaurant stress.

But honestly, they are naive if they think it's that simple. Good writing (in a prestige drama) wouldn't make this choice easy, and there would be consequences. Carmy would be written to be abandoning his work family, and possibly even his sense of identity, if he made that choice. It is realistic too, considering the systemic pressures of the workers in that industry. The pressures force harsh decisions because multiple people are depending on you. In his talks with fine dining restaurant workers and chefs, Storer said they consistently said their personal lives were in shambles because the restaurant consumed them. There was no world outside of it. And ultimately, Carmy chose the restaurant. He chose Syd, not Claire.

So the demands of the job and the pressure of high-stakes business decisions really don't allow for intimate relationships. I don't think this is all on Carmy for being unable to handle it.

However, I would think that any fleeting moments of non-work, relaxing, unwinding that MIGHT happen...would happen between people who "get it."

Like calls to like.

So, maybe we will see Syd and Carmy actually execute that ask out that almost happened by the lockers?

The consequences might be harsh there too, but at least we would get some juicy workplace drama🍿

[allurilove]

How would the yanderes react if Reader wanted to keep or take the baby? And it depends on whether the pregnancy was planned or not.

If the baby was planned, they would be happy to learn that their partner was pregnant! If it wasn’t, there are some hesitations, and full on rejections too. But, some would just accept it right away regardless of whether they wanted it or not.

We all know yandere husband and prince doesn’t give a fuck if it was planned or an accident, they’ll be happy either way. Dumb yandere would also be happy, but it’s probably not wise to get impregnated by this man.

Here are some people who wouldn’t exactly be happy if the pregnancy wasn’t planned. And as a little bonus, I also added how many kids they would like to have!

Yandere professor:

-would ideally have only one child.

[not planned]

-the first stage is always denial. He denies that he ever got one of his students—of all people—pregnant. He would try to remember all the times you two were intimate, and if he ever wore a condom. He’s pretty sure that he has, but then again it could break…

-then he gets worried for your wellbeing as the pregnancy progresses and he can see the visible signs. He’s also extremely paranoid that people might know that he’s the father.

Yandere mob boss:

-would want to have none.

[not planned]

-he doesn’t even like kids, but the kids you already have with your ex are fine. He doesn’t really see himself having more than the two kids he became a stepdad too.

-so, it’s a straight up no for him.

Yandere best friend:

-would want two max.

[not planned]

-you getting pregnant would absolutely send him in a downward spiral. He has college to finish, and so do you! He doesn’t know how he’s gonna be able to juggle his studies and a whole ass baby.

-slowly warms up to the idea of starting a family with his crush and best friend.

Yandere knight:

-would want one or three.

[not planned]

-the moment you told him that you were pregnant… he heard the death bells. He started planning his grave right there and then. He already has a kid that he needs to take care of… and now he has another with princess reader?

-vows to himself that he’ll get a vasectomy. He would help princess reader take care of the baby in private.

Yandere prodigy:

-would want none, but if he were to have a kid he would want a girl and that’s it.

[not planned]

-he doesn’t like that he now has a constant reminder that he slept with his enemy. he would also be in denial, and pretend that he hasn’t even touched you at all.

-definitely not happy, but ends up helping out anyways.

Yandere classmate:

-would want two. preferably twins so he can call them “spot” and “dot” i dunno 🤷🏻‍♀️

[not planned]

-Look, he was dreaming about starting a family with you but not this soon. He’s in school, and he has a clean reputation to uphold.

-wouldn’t want reader to keep the baby.

Yandere boyfriend:

-would want to have one and a boy.

[not planned]

-totally freaking out on the inside and trying to be calm on the outside. all he could think about was how he had to work more jobs to support another human being.

-Tries to convince you to not keep it because he’s not financially stable rn.

So, that’s all the people that would be hesitant or reject the idea of having a baby.

Now we’re onto the rest of the yanderes!

-Yandere husband would want to have four kids as the maximum.

-yandere prince would want two and only two. the youngest child would be considered as a backup incase the first one dies.

-yandere chaebol would have two, which he does have with his ex. But he wouldn’t object if he had more.

-yandere farmer would have twelve kids if he could! Lord knows that he sleeps with reader sooo much that he could do that.

-dumb yandere would be the man to somehow end up with twenty kids. he actually never thought about having any, but it would be a pleasant surprise. He would just give reader all the kids they want.

-yandere neighbor would like to at least have two, but none is perfectly fine with him.

-yandere camp counselor would probs be a guy that has like three kids.

-yandere stalker would have one or two. any more and it’ll give him a headache.

[gluion]

i 💙 my artist — choi jiung

choi jiung & reader

wc —1.3k genre & warnings — fluff, established relationship, artist reader & jiung as your no. 1 fan, pet names, peck on the cheek, reader has a peanut allergy, unedited notes — happy (belated) birthday and graduation @sizzlingdino had to let this thing marinate with me as i was juggling thesis among other things (as you are very aware) but i really hope you enjoy this one <3 first artwork is done by Taylor McKimens and Misaki Kawaiand and the second one i couldn't find out :(( if you enjoyed reading, please do reblog and leave feedback! request to be part of the taglist! masterlist

synopsis — stressed out from preparing your exhibit, you receive news that your boyfriend won’t make it in time for its opening—until you spot a mint-haired boy wearing a headband with your name on it.

if there’s one thing you learned all throughout your years doing art, it’s that nothing will ever go according to plan. you’ll come across accidents; your sketch can look awful once you’ve outlined it, the diorama you’ve spent weeks working on can crumble from the lack of super glue, and the 3d model you’ve tried rendering overnight can fail (and you hated that the most).

you’ve learned that your vision can turn out very different in its final form—but you weren’t going to allow that now.

“we still need extension cords!” kevin calls out as he moves a softbox.

as soon as you spot a cable that could topple the light, you rush to kevin and grab hold of the neck. “careful!”

your friend sighs before shooting you an apologetic smile. “sorry, didn’t see that.”

you couldn’t blame him. with only an hour left until the exhibit officially opens, the venue is still a mess. everyone’s scrambling to fix everything; the lights still need to be placed in their designated spots and more screws had to be drilled into walls for paintings. 

“it’s fine. this light is for which?”

“the live portrait section,” kevin answers.

as you help him move the light, you spot ricky on the phone. “yeah. no peanuts, right? we can’t have that since some of us are allergic,” he speaks to the other person on the line before meeting your eyes.

“what’s the status of the catering?” you ask him, only for him to mouth 30 minutes back at you. you sigh before setting the light down at its designated spot.

kevin wipes his sweaty hands on his jeans. “do you know where the extension cords are?”

“uh, the last time i heard, seulgi was able to get a box full of them, but you’d have to ask her. i think most were used for the dioramas.” you pull out your clipboard and go through sections that still need to be fixed; pulling this off in an hour would be a miracle.

“hey, boss,” your attention is called by minghao on the other side of the venue, “does this look okay?” he points at the wall with the screw gun in his hand.

once you approach him, you look through the paintings hung on the wall. “i think so? it looks fine.”

“good, because i might’ve fucked up the measurements.”

you frown at him. “what?”

“no take-backs! you said it’s fine!” before you can smack his arm, he bolts away with the screw gun.

“yah! don’t go running around with that!”

you need everything to go according to plan, especially when all the responsibility is on your shoulders.

your phone rings in your pocket. once you pull it out, the contact name brings a smile to your face. you accept the call and bring it close to your ear. “hey, what’s up?”

“how’s my artist doing?” jiung’s voice on the other line is enough to keep your mind off of the rattling or machines and objects. “wow, it sounds very busy.”

a sigh leaves you. “because it is.” you scratch the back of your neck. “the exhibit is supposed to open in a while and we are delayed in the ingress. there’s already guests outside and the food has yet to arrive.”

“babe, i’m sure all will be okay. just from the sounds alone, i can already tell you guys will be done in time. if anything, you guys shouldn’t even be preparing this exhibit! you’re the artists!” your boyfriend exclaims, causing you to laugh. “see, i got you laughing.” he always knew the right words to say.

you smile before saying, “thanks. i needed that.” you spot ricky coming your way with a frown. “wait a minute, someone needs to talk to me.” you bring the phone away from your ear.

“i have some bad news.”

with stress evident in your friend’s features, your spirits go into a decline. “oh no. what happened?”

“so, i got off the phone with catering, and they told me that most of the food they cooked used peanut oil.” you have to be kidding me. “i asked if they could replace it but they said that if they do it now, it won’t arrive until like two hours later.”

you close your eyes as you try to process the information. “okay, that just means i can’t eat any of the food then. i mean, that’s fine.” you look at ricky who pouts at you.

“i’m sorry. i can get you some food if ever.”

yet, you shake your head. “it’s okay. thank you, though.”

once he takes his leave, you bring the phone back to your ear. “sorry about that. anyway, why’d you call?”

“babe, you know i’d do anything to be at your exhibit,” as he starts off the sentence, you can’t help but feel your heart drop, “but i’m still stuck at the clinic for the wisdom tooth removal. i think the dentist had some long procedure, so i’m only about to get it done. i’m so sorry.”

you know that jiung would never miss out on your exhibit. if anything, he’s always been more excited about it than you ever have, but with the day taking a stressful turn, you hate to admit your disappointment over his absence.

“it’s okay,” you try to reassure your boyfriend. “i’m sure i can tour you around the exhibit another time. think of it as a private tour.”

“okay, i’ll be sure to free up my schedule just for you.”

before you can say anything, he cuts you off. “wait, i have to go. i’m being called to the room. i’ll see you soon, love you!”

“bye, love you.”

the call drops along with your spirits. the only thing that could’ve saved today couldn’t even make it. still, you do your best to force a smile. 

preparations continue as planned, and somehow, the exhibit is finished in time for its opening. your boyfriend seemed to be right about almost anything.

“okay, we have a few minutes to talk with everyone before y/n’s opening remarks. once they’re done, don’t forget that we’ll be called one by one for acknowledgements,” seulgi reminds everyone. after everyone nods at her reminders, they all storm off to meet up with their guests; friends, families, and partners smile at the sight of the other artists.

yet, you were by yourself with no one to go to. 

feeling dejected, you were about to retreat to a corner and practice your speech—until you saw a familiar mint-haired boy in the crowd with a foam cutout of your name on his head. in his hand is a bouquet of flowers, and the sweater he wears has the words, I 💙 MY ARTIST, plastered on the front. and while everything about his get up should make you embarrassed, the swollen grin on his face brings you to smile.

you run to him. “jiung!” with his arms open, he brings you into a hug. “i thought you wouldn’t make it.”

“honestly, i thought i wouldn’t with how long this sweater was taking with the printing,” he admits. “but i did, and i even brought food.” you glance down to see a paper bag filled with takeout food by his feet.

when you look back at him, you can’t help but admire his whole outfit. “i never expected you to be this embarrassing.”

shock casts his features. “i’d literally do anything for you.” as he pecks your cheek, your smile grows. “i would do this any day just for you.”

your heart grows full from his words. “i love you. thank you for this.”

he tucks some hair behind your ear. “i love you, too. i’m always proud of you, and i can’t wait to see everyone be amazed with what you do.”

jiung always knew the right words to say.

(you hope your art can convey your love for him.)

networks taglist: @kflixnet @k-labels @blankjournal @kstrucknet

[goblinontour]

Can I Come Over?

it was her, and him, and miles kane

warnings: dad!alex, just some cute stuff

word count: 4.2k

The phone rang out, a shrill, persistent sound that echoed through the quiet house. Almost simultaneously, the familiar wail of his daughter crying reached his ears, her small voice filled with distress. Alex sighed, rubbing a hand over his tired face as he tried to figure out which of the noises to attend to first. You weren’t home, and the weight of managing everything on his own was pressing down on him.

She’s not a baby anymore, he thought to himself, though the realisation did little to ease the moment’s pressure. It wasn’t like he could be in two places at once, and while the phone call could be important, the kid should be the obvious choice.

He quickly made his way down the hall towards his home studio, which had doubled as her playroom ever since she started crawling and showing an interest in being wherever he was. It wasn’t the perfect setup, but it worked. He’d learned to share his space with her, even if it meant that his creative sanctuary now had bright-coloured toys scattered between the equipment and instruments. 

But as he pushed open the door, a pang of guilt hit him. There she was, sitting on the floor amidst a sea of toys, her little face scrunched up in discomfort. Her cries had softened to pitiful whimpers, her cheeks flushed. The source of her distress quickly became apparent, one of her tiny fingers was caught between the strings of his electric guitar, which he’d left on the floor after his last session, too careless to put it back on its wall stand where it belonged.

“Ah, shit.” he muttered under his breath, cursing himself for not being more careful. He hurried over, his heart squeezing with regret. Kneeling beside her, he gently freed her finger from the strings, trying to soothe her with soft words.

“Shhh, there you go. It’s okay, love. I’ve got you.” he cooed, his voice tender as he scooped her up into his arms. The tears that had been brimming in her big eyes began to subside as she clung to him, burying her face in his shoulder. Her little hands gripped onto his shirt, seeking comfort in his warmth.

He kissed the top of her head, holding her close as he stood up, already mentally punishing himself for the lapse in judgement. “I’m sorry, sweetheart. That was daddy’s fault.” he murmured into her hair, feeling the softness of her curls against his lips. 

He glanced back at the guitar, still lying on the floor. The phone rang again, more insistent this time, dragging his attention away. Still holding her close, Alex made his way downstairs, his steps quick but still careful. He reached the living room just as the ringing stopped, the silence almost mocking him.

Sighing, he shifted his daughter slightly, freeing one hand to grab the phone from where it had been abandoned on the coffee table. He saw the missed call notification and frowned. It was Miles. He’d have to call him back in a minute, but for now, his daughter needed him more.

He set the phone down and turned his full attention back to her, rocking her gently as he settled onto the couch. She was calming down, her breathing evening out. Her small fingers clung to his shirt, her wide eyes still a bit teary but starting to flutter closed as she relaxed against him.

“There we go…” he whispered, rubbing her back in slow, soothing circles. “You’re alright now.”

He felt a rush of love and protectiveness swell in his chest as she snuggled closer, her tiny body fitting perfectly against his. It didn’t matter how tired he was or how many things he had to juggle at once. He promised himself she would be his priority, always.

As she drifted off into a light sleep, her soft breaths warm against his neck, Alex found himself smiling despite the little incident. He kissed her head once more, grateful for the quiet, however fleeting it might be, before he’d have to return that call and get back to everything else waiting for him. But he’d just hold her a little longer for now. 

He watched her, unable to tear his eyes away. She looked so peaceful, her long eyelashes resting softly against her cheeks, her small mouth slightly open as she breathed deeply. The warmth of her little body against his chest brought him a sense of calm that was hard elsewhere. 

He reached down and brushed a few stray curls away from her forehead, careful not to wake her. The way her face relaxed into sleep, her little fingers still curled into his shirt, made his heart swell with in disbelief. She was already three years old. He couldn’t believe it. It felt like just yesterday that he was pacing the floors with her as a newborn, unsure and nervous, but utterly in love.

The thought hit him suddenly. How much he had missed when he was away on tour last year. She was barely two then, and he’d had to leave you alone with her for weeks on end. He remembered the phone calls, how you’d try to sound cheerful even when he could hear the exhaustion in your voice. He felt a pang of guilt, a new kind of understanding washing over him. It was hard now, with you gone for just one day, and he had six more to go. He wasn’t incompetent or incapable, but it was definitely harder than he’d anticipated. And to think that you’d done this while he was on the other side of the world...he felt a bit of guilt for not fully realising it sooner.

As she slept in his arms, he reached for his phone, careful not to jostle her too much. He opened the camera and framed the shot. Her tiny form curled up against him, her peaceful expression softening the lines of his own tired face. He snapped the picture, already thinking about how he might send it to you later if he remembered. Maybe he wouldn’t mention the little incident with the guitar strings. Only one day without you, and he’d already let something go wrong. 

He sighed softly, tucking his phone back into his pocket as he continued to watch her. Poppy. It wasn’t short for anything, just Poppy. He remembered the discussions you both had before she was born. You weren’t the biggest fan of the name at first, thinking it was too cutesy or too simple for a first name, so you agreed it would be her middle name. But once she arrived, it was the only thing that felt right. The name just fit her so perfectly that even you had started calling her Poppy from the start. Now, it was hard to imagine her being called anything else.

As he was lost in thought, his phone buzzed in his hand, snapping him back to the present. He glanced at the screen—Miles. Right, he needed to call him back. Carefully shifting Poppy to one arm, he swiped to return the call.

Miles picked up after just a few rings. “Hey, mate. What’s up?”

“Hey, sorry I didn’t get to the phone earlier. Poppy was crying, and I had to take care of her.” Alex explained, his voice quiet so as not to disturb the now-sleeping little girl in his arms.

“No worries, Aly. It’s not a big deal.” Miles replied casually. “Just wanted to see if you were up for going out tonight. Been a while since we’ve had a proper catch-up.”

Alex hesitated, glancing down at Poppy’s sleeping form. “I’d love to, but I can’t tonight. I’ve got her all to myself. Her mum’s away on a trip, so I’m on full-time duty.”

“Ah, right.” Miles said, understanding dawning in his voice. “Well, in that case, how’s she doing? She keeping you on your toes?”

Alex smiled, the warmth in his chest spreading. “Yeah, she’s good. She’s getting so big now, though. I can hardly believe it sometimes. She’s really into drawing lately, keeps trying to ‘help’ with my music too. She’s got a good ear for it. I think.”

Miles chuckled. “That’s the spirit. Start ‘em young. You know, if you’re up for it, we could go for a walk in a bit. I haven’t seen Pop in a while.” he paused, deliberately shortening her already short name, as he always did, “I’ll bring Maxie, too. You know how much she loves him.”

Alex considered it, picturing Poppy’s sleepy face lighting up at the sight of Maxie. She adored that little white dog. “Yeah, alright.” he agreed with a smile. “Sounds like a plan. Where do you want to meet?”

“I’ll come over to yours.” Miles offered. “Give me twenty minutes?”

“Perfect,” Alex replied, “See you then.”

As he hung up the phone, Alex carefully shifted Poppy again, adjusting her so that she was cradled more securely in his arms. He stood up slowly, heading toward the stairs. There was still time to let her rest a bit longer before Miles arrived, so he used that to get dressed. 

When he came back, he gently shifted her, her little body still heavy with sleep as he moved to sit her up. He kissed the top of her head, his lips brushing against her soft curls as he murmured, “Poppy, wake up, love. Mi is coming to see you.”

She stirred at the familiar name, rubbing her eyes with tiny fists as she blinked up at him. “Mi?” she mumbled, still drowsy.

Alex smiled, nodding as he smoothed down her bedhead. “Yeah, Mi’s coming over. And guess who he’s bringing?”

Her eyes brightened instantly, the sleepiness fading as she asked, “Maxie?”

“Maxie.” Alex confirmed with a grin.

That was all it took. Poppy wriggled out of his grasp with surprising speed, her little feet hitting the floor as she started to shuffle away. Amused, Alex watched her for a moment before calling out, “And where do you think you’re going, Miss Poppy?”

She looked over her shoulder, determination set on her small face. “I want to get ready!”

Alex couldn’t help but chuckle at that. His independent little girl. “Okay, then.” he said, pushing himself off the couch and following her down the hallway to her room.

Poppy led the way, and when they reached her room, she made a beeline for her little chair, the one that sat in front of her small dresser. It was all part of the routine she knew so well. 

Alex watched with a fond smile as she climbed onto the chair, already sitting still and patient as she waited for him to do his part. She was already dressed, which made things easier. He couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride at how grown-up she seemed sometimes.

He grabbed the small bottle of sunscreen from the dresser, squirting a bit onto his fingers before kneeling down in front of her. “Alright, close your eyes, love.” he instructed gently.

Poppy scrunched her eyes shut, tilting her face up toward him. Alex carefully applied the sunscreen to her face, making sure to cover every spot. When he was done, he leaned back with a satisfied smile. “All done.” he announced, wiping his hands on a small towel.

But Poppy wasn’t having it. She opened her eyes and immediately reached for the bottle of sunscreen, her tiny hands stretching toward him. “I want to do you too, daddy.” she insisted, her expression serious.

Alex chuckled, unable to resist her request. “Alright then.” he said, holding out the bottle so she could take a small amount onto her fingers.

Poppy concentrated hard as she dabbed the sunscreen onto his face, her little fingers patting it in with more force than was probably necessary, but Alex just smiled through it. She was so focused, her tongue sticking out slightly in concentration as she made sure to cover his cheeks, nose, and forehead. When she was satisfied with her work, she looked at him with a proud grin. “All done!”

Alex beamed at her. “Thank you, Poppy. Now we’re both ready.”

She nodded seriously, as if this task was of the utmost importance. And to her, it probably was. Moments like these—where she got to take care of him in her own small way—seemed to mean everything to her. And, he realised, they meant everything to him too.

With the preparations done, he stood up and offered her his hand. “Shall we go wait for Mi and Maxie?”

Poppy hopped off the chair, slipping her tiny hand into his. “Yeah!” she chirped, excitement bubbling in her voice.

“Yeahh!” Alex said in turn. 

They waited in the living room, Poppy’s anticipation palpable as she fidgeted beside Alex on the couch. She kept glancing at the door every few seconds, her excitement barely contained. Alex smiled down at her, rubbing her back soothingly, but he couldn’t help but share in her eagerness. It had been a while since he’s seen Miles, and he knew how much she adored Maxie.

Finally, the sound of a knock echoed through the house, and before Alex could even react, Poppy was already on her feet, dashing toward the door. “Poppy, wait-” he called out, but she was too quick, her little legs carrying her across the room in a hurry.

Alex got up and followed, but by the time he reached the door, she was already standing there, her small hands barely reaching the handle as she tried to open it. He chuckled, stepping in to help her. “Let me get that for you.” he said, lifting her slightly to give her better leverage.

As soon as the door swung open, she squeezed her way in front of him, her eyes immediately locking onto Maxie, who was wagging his tail excitedly at the sight of her. “Maxie!” she squealed, dropping to her knees to hug the little dog. Maxie licked her face in return, his tail wagging even faster as she giggled, completely enamoured.

“Careful, Poppy.” Alex reminded her gently. 

With her occupied, Alex turned his attention to the tall figure standing in the doorway. Miles grinned at him, his eyes warm with familiarity. “Long time no see.” Miles greeted, stepping forward.

Alex pulled him into a hug, patting him on the back. “Good to see you, Miles.” he said. There was something comforting about having him around, a steady presence that had been in his life for years and years now.

As they pulled back from the hug, Alex glanced down at Poppy, who was still engrossed in her reunion with Maxie. Miles followed his gaze, a fond smile tugging at his lips. “She’s grown, hasn’t she? Last time I saw her, she wasn’t even up to my knee.”

“Tell me about it.” Alex replied, shaking his head in disbelief. “She’s a proper little person now.”

Miles chuckled. “She’s still got that same smile, though. Just like you.”

Alex smiled, warmth spreading through him at the compliment. He couldn’t help but feel a swell of pride whenever someone pointed out the similarities between them. “Yeah, she does.” he said softly, watching as she continued to play with Maxie, her laughter filling the hallway.

Maxie was now rolling onto his back, paws in the air as Poppy scratched his belly. She was completely absorbed, her earlier sleepiness forgotten. 

“Maxie missed you too, Pop.” Miles said, leaning down slightly to ruffle the dog’s fur.

Poppy looked up at him with a wide grin. “I missed him more!” she declared confidently, making both men laugh.

“She’s got a point.” Alex said, looking at Miles with a smirk. “Maxie is a tough competitor, but Poppy’s got him beat in the missing department.”

Miles grinned back. “It’s a close call, though.” 

As she continued playing with Maxie, Alex and Miles exchanged another glance, both of them silently agreeing that this little visit was just what they all needed.

Miles straightened up, giving Maxie one last pat before looking over at Alex. “So, you all ready to go?” he asked, his tone light but with an undertone of understanding. He knew Alex had been alone with Poppy for only a day, but sometimes that was enough to make anyone feel a bit out of sorts.

“Yeah, just need to grab my bag. Won’t be a sec.” Alex replied, giving a nod toward the hallway.

“Alright, we’ll be here.” Miles said, reaching down to unclip Maxie’s leash from his belt loop, letting the dog roam freely in the small entryway as Alex disappeared down the hall.

Poppy was still thoroughly engrossed in him, who had rolled over onto his back again, clearly enjoying all the attention. Miles watched them with a smile. There was something grounding about moments like these, seeing his best mate’s kid happy and healthy, playing with his dog like nothing else in the world mattered.

It didn’t take long for Alex to return, slinging a small bag over his shoulder. “Alright, let’s go.” he said, his eyes flicking down to Poppy. “You ready, love?”

Poppy nodded enthusiastically, but didn’t let go of Maxie’s fur, still holding on as if he might disappear if she released him.

Miles chuckled, clipping the leash back onto Maxie’s collar. “Come on, Max.”

The three of them headed out, the warm afternoon sun greeting them as they stepped onto the pavement. They didn’t venture far, just down the street and into the park that stretched out right near Alex’s house. It was a quiet, familiar spot, with a small playground that Poppy loved and plenty of space for Maxie to run around.

They strolled along the path, Poppy happily trotting beside Maxie, occasionally glancing back at the two men as they talked. They kept the conversation light at first, catching up on what Miles had been up to, how things were going with the band, and how he was feeling about everything. But eventually, he couldn’t help but admit the truth that had been bubbling up inside him all day.

“You know…” Alex began, his voice a little lower, more serious. “It feels like I’m already going a bit crazy on my own. It’s only been a day, but…it’s harder than I thought it would be. Respect to her for handling this as well as she does.”

Miles glanced at him, understanding in his eyes. “Don’t be too hard on yourself. You’re doing fine.”

Alex sighed, running a hand through his hair as he looked ahead, watching Poppy chase after Maxie who had taken off toward a patch of grass. “Yeah, but still. I didn’t expect to feel like this, you know? And she’s not back for another six days.”

“Why don’t I stay over for a bit?” Miles suggested, his tone casual but sincere. “We can hang out, have a couple of beers, let Pop tire herself out. Might be good for you to have some company.”

Alex turned to him, a grateful smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. “You sure? I don’t want to impose or anything.”

“You’re not imposing. I wanted to see you anyway. Besides, Maxie’s loving it, and I wouldn’t mind spending some more time with Pop. And you, obviously.” Miles added with a teasing grin.

Alex chuckled, feeling a bit of the tension lift from his shoulders. “Yeah…that would be nice. Thanks, Miles.”

“No problem. It’ll be like old times…with a few more responsibilities thrown in.” Miles said with a wink, making Alex laugh.

They eventually made their way back to Alex’s place, the sun beginning to dip lower in the sky, casting a golden glow over the neighbourhood. Poppy skipped ahead, still holding onto Maxie’s leash as they reached the front door. Alex unlocked it, letting her and Maxie rush inside before turning to Miles.

“Hey, I think I might still have some food for Max from the last time you stayed over.” Alex said, rubbing the back of his neck a bit sheepishly. “If you, uh, want to stick around for a while…like, even stay the night if- if you wanna.”

He caught himself stuttering over the last part, a slight flush creeping up his neck. It wasn’t like him to be uncertain around Miles, but something about asking him to stay made Alex feel a bit vulnerable. He wasn’t used to admitting he needed company, especially when it came to something as simple as getting through the night with his kid.

Miles noticed the shift in Alex’s tone, a small smile playing on his lips as he clapped a hand on Alex’s shoulder. “That sounds perfect. Don’t worry about it. Maxie and I can crash here. No trouble at all.”

Alex let out a breath he didn’t realise he’d been holding, feeling a weight lift off his shoulders. “Thanks, Miles. Really. It’s…I appreciate it.”

Miles just gave him a reassuring nod, and together they stepped inside, closing the door behind them. Poppy and Maxie were already in the living room, the little girl laughing as she threw a soft toy for the dog to chase. 

Alex watched them for a whole before he moved into the kitchen, pulling open the fridge and grabbing two beers. Popping the caps off, he handed one to Miles as he joined him. They stood there for a moment, leaning against the kitchen counter. 

Miles took a sip of his beer, glancing over at the living room where Poppy and Maxie were still happily playing. “You’re doing great, you know.” he said, his voice calm and steady. “She’s a good kid, and you’re a good dad.”

Alex looked down at his beer, swirling the bottle in his hand before taking a long drink. “I just don’t want to mess it up, you know? I didn’t realise how much…how much she depends on me. And on her. It’s different when you’re here alone, trying to keep it all together.”

Miles nodded, understanding the unspoken thoughts behind Alex’s words. “That’s why you’ve got me here tonight.”

Alex smiled, feeling more at ease. “Yeah, you’re right. Feels good having you here.” He glanced over at Poppy and Maxie, his heart swelling with affection for his little girl. “And I think she’s pretty happy about it too.”

They both chuckled, clinking their bottles together before taking another sip. The evening stretched out before them, the soft sounds of Poppy’s laughter and Maxie’s playful barks filling the room. 

They settled onto the couch, the evening’s warmth lingering in the cosy living room. Alex stretched out, feeling more relaxed than he had in days, while Miles sank into the cushions beside him, their beers still in hand. Poppy toddled over with wide, curious eyes.

“I want to drink with you too.” she announced, her voice full of determination as she pointed at their beer bottles.

Alex chuckled, shaking his head. “Your mother would kill me if she knew I gave you beer, P.”

Miles, always quick with a playful idea, leaned forward and proposed something to her. “How about we have a tea party instead?”

Alex raised an eyebrow, his voice tinged with mock disapproval. “A bit late for tea, don’t you think?”

“Come onnn, Alex.” Miles persisted, dragging out his words for effect.

“Come on, Alex!” Poppy echoed, her voice sweetly insistent as she imitated Miles.

Alex shot Miles a mock glare, trying to keep a straight face. “Great, now you’ve got her calling me Alex instead of dad.”

Miles leaned back, unable to resist teasing further. “Come on, daddy.” he drawled, adding a cheeky wink that made Alex roll his eyes.

“Oh, shut up.” Alex shot back, a reluctant smile tugging at his lips.

Poppy giggled at their banter, her eyes sparkling with the joy of being included in their little game. She climbed up onto the couch between them, looking expectantly at Alex, who let out a sigh that was more amused than exasperated.

“Fine!” he said, conceding defeat. “How about we have a ‘pretend’ tea party, then? No real tea, though.”

Miles nodded, playing along. “Sounds like a plan. But, Poppy, I think your daddy might need some practice with his tea party skills. He’s a bit rusty.”

Poppy nodded seriously, and Alex couldn’t help but laugh at how effortlessly Miles could charm his way into any situation, even turning a bedtime tea party into something fun.

“Okay, let’s do it.” Alex said, setting his beer down and leaning closer to Poppy. “But remember, no actual tea this late. Just pretend, okay?”

She climbed off the couch and ran to grab her toy tea set, leaving the two men to exchange a knowing look.

As she returned with the tiny cups and teapot, Miles shot Alex a grin. “You’re a natural. I’m impressed.”

Alex gave him a playful shove, but his eyes were warm. “Yeah, well…I’ve had some good influences.”

They both settled into their roles, letting Poppy pour invisible tea into their cups as they humoured her with exaggerated sips and polite conversation. Alex might have been tired, and maybe even a little stressed, but he knew it would be fine, despite his doubts about himself sometimes. 

a/n: i don’t know what this is i just felt like writing it

tags: @st7rnioioss @theonlyoneswhoknowsblog @rentsturner @yourstartreatment @avxoxo1 @jqsvi @turnersfav @youresodarkbabe @psychedelicrocker @aacheinthejaw @zayndrider @humbuginmybones @tedioepica

[idontmindifuforgetme]

2023 almost over what have u achieved so far?

Graduated a year early with a wholeass degree in biochemistry!!!, traveled solo abroad for the first time ever (and multiple times at that, I was by myself hopping countries 4 times this summer), started embracing the bad moments as learning experiences, pushed myself out of my comfort zone way more, upgraded my skincare routine (and just self-care routine in general), made a concerted effort to be off my phone more, got in touch w my dad’s side of the family/my ethnic roots, drastically expanded my friend circle (younger me would never imagine me having multiple friend groups now and navigating that as well as I do), successfully juggled my teaching assistant positions as a chemistry/genetics tutor in addition to my full-time school workload and organic chemistry research, gave my ex the middle finger and worked really hard to move on from him by immersing myself in my studies and hobbies, got my driver’s license!!!!, got way more consistent w the gym, learned a lot of basic recipes (2024 will be about expanding my cooking abilities), finally got myself out of my reading slump, worked hard on alleviating my abandonment/anxious attachment issues, became way more accepting of people walking out of my life, started doing my hour by hour schedules (literally a game changer), stopped being so fucking nice to people who don’t deserve it, got my curly hair routine down after years of viciously straightening it, indulged myself w things I wanted a lot more this year, started giving far fewer fucks what people think of me, wrote down a list of things I wanted to change about myself and continue to actively work on those, just became a lot more adult in general (which is big for me bc I hail from an overprotective family that has notoriously coddled me). Stopped dimming myself for other people’s comfort/benefit. Really expanded my fashion sense. Tuned way more into myself—I’m only 21 so there’s a lot more to learn about me, but I feel like I’m the closest I’ve ever been to knowing what my likes and wants are. Became way more spontaneous in general. Did a lot of dumb bold young things this year and don’t regret them at all. Made so many memories. Realized my actions have a very real and tangible impact in other people’s lives. The person I am is very different from the person I was, even if I have a lot more to go—and I’m very proud of that. The biggest thing is I think I finally started developing real, genuine self-love. I’ve forgiven myself for a lot of things. I feel like I’m finally present for me/my wants, rather than spending so much time focusing on other people’s. The people pleasing is fading away, slowly but surely. And the best part is!! There’s so much more to come. I cannot wait for next year bc I know the woman I’ll become will be unstoppable

[jariten]

Roundup-Catch up: August 2024!!

Let's catch up! Looking back at my list of August reads my head spins a bit. Most of this year I got way too eager picking up series from my shelf or the library and was juggling maybe 5 series at once. Which did a huge disservice to the reading experience for some of those series as I wasn't giving them my full attention. It wasn't until August I managed to wrap up most of them and enter the more focused way of following or reading through a series that I had previously. But in the frenzy I still had some great reads.

I had always heard whispers of No Longer Heroine by Momoko Koda but I'd never crossed paths with it. But when the english run of My Love Mix-up ended I had a huge contemporary High School Romance shaped hole in my heart and this is one of the titles that's filled it (I will get to the rest). I love mess, I love stories of teenagers learning to navigate the minefield that is human relationships so I can be the opposite of nostalgic for a time that, praise be, I will never have to relive. But I also read titles like this wondering how a constructive conversation around it could be had among young readers who from my experience can come off very frustrated and unsympathetic to the type of drama it depicts where the heroine and hero's feelings and decisions are extremely irrational and reckless. I really like the Yen Press, but as a license acquisition it feels kinda random? And in my honest opinion if you're 10 years late to a title you kinda have to make it an omnibus or collectors edition because waiting for individual volumes for, again, an over 10 year old series is pretty frustrating. But I will stick around to the end.

Yumiko Ōshima's Sava series was one of my favorites of 2022. The way she captures me with stories where honestly "nothing" really "happens" just floored me and made me optimistic for Goo Goo Datte Neko de Aru. A diary comic that begins with the passing of the cat Sava and her purchase of the cat Goo Goo (Short for Good Good). But Goo Goo isn't the only cat that enters her life. In rather rapid succession stray kittens begin entering her life. We follow for over a decade her journey rescuing, rehoming, and caretaking of countless stray cats (the latter to the dismay of her neighbours). Reading it today it highlights the challenges of clashing attitudes over stray cats and how these populations should be taken care of if at all. Famously it is also a chronicle of her cancer survival journey but its a rather short part of the whole but nonetheless maintains the Ōshima charm.

I want to make a gift recommendation for the upcoming holiday season: Your Letter by Hyeon A Cho. While I've had some really really good encounters with Korean Manhwa, Webtoons is still a world unknown to me. I think the Ize Press initiative bringing Webtoons to print in english is extremely cool, but the lineup just hasn't had any titles that caught my eye. Until Your Letter. A 10 chapter single volume story that I liked so much for its artistic presentation and the story it was telling about bullying and finding your place in a new environment that I immediately was overcome with the need to pass it along, which I did. Really think it would make a great gift for anyone 5th grade and up who are interested in comics. OR it can be read for free in its entirety on Webtoon!

Satou Gashi no Ie by Kyoko Fumizuki was a title picked up a bit at random. I'd gotten a taste of her work in the Suki Desu, Kono Shoujo Manga anthology and was one of the more memorable entries in an already extremely well curated collection. Satou Gashi no Ie is a 5 story one-shot collection with to meeee back to back hits. The titular story centres on a teenage boy named Richard who suddenly appears at his childhood's friend Elsie's school with a baby in his arms, that he claims to be his, and that he's a widower. But there are too many holes in his story. Who exactly is the baby's mother and how did he come to care for her at the end of her life? And how does this change Richard and Elsie's relationship? There's a warmth to Fumizuki's artistry in this era and the way that she hits all the story beats that really drew me in and augh I honestly have no words for it. This collection really stood out and among her peers I've yet to read anyone who could compose manga exactly like this. And you know what's cool? You can (In Japanese) read this and a handful of her other work from the same era for FREE on Manga Library Z!! (JP only) NOTE: crazy enough, on this very day (Nov 26) Manga Library Z suspended services but diligent users of nyaa have made sure that the works available there live on

[theeternalwombtarot]

The month of October for you:

message: wanted to do a short pick a pile for the month of October for you guys since we’re moving into the energy of transformation and change!! It’s been a minute! <3 (attention: there’s some sort of connection here between pile one and pile two, either you know someone within that pile or collective and they’re very deeply rooted in your energy or there’s messages for you there!)

***

pile one:

general: it looks like pile one is going to be a month full of manifestation and opportunity here for you with this page of cups upright pile one. Some of you may be working on mood boards, making lists and getting everything in order to prepare for what you’re praying for. It’s giving “God, I don't see it now but I'm ready to leave all my fears behind. Train me for what I'm praying for. Use me. I want to actively learn from this season.” Some of you may be going back to school or even further aligning with your goals by increasing your knowledge and education. I’m seeing written word being a large factor in manifestation for you, reading, educating yourself or being able to visualize what you’re trying to manifest as well. You might have been praying for some blessings to help level up your life. I just heard things are being moved around for you behind the scenes to give you the best possible outcome all you have to do is say you want something and put yourself in alignment to receive it and prepare for what you’re praying for. You’re about to be blessed or spirit is about to give you an opportunity that’s going to get you closer to the life you’re asking for, get you ready or even give you the life you’re asking for instantly!!! Prospects regarding career and finances are feeling bright for you pile one. You may even be making your mind up completely about what it is you need to do moving forward or what your plans are for the month of October. Visualize heavily this month while working on manifestation. Some of you are fire signs or have a birthday coming up this season as well!!

love: there could be a lot of people on their way into your life pile one. I’m seeing friends and celebrations, if you guys have been worried about or have been manifesting soul family or connections don’t worry about it it seems like this month you’ll find yourself in company of people who care for you or want to be around you. I even see a possibility for various suitors in love. There might be people looking at you this month, wanting to be with you, wanting to spend time with you, wanting to see you. Use your discernment moving forward and keep in mind what it is that you’re looking for. A good handful of this collective are coming into a new reality and stepping into their higher selves, people will see that and want to be around you or have a piece of what you’re having. Make sure the people you come across have good intentions. Pay close attention and let people tell you who they are before making any drastic decisions or allowing them to enter your close circle or have access to your energy. Listen to your body as well. Some of you are going to be doing some healing this October regarding your relationships and how you interact with people in your life. A lot of purging here of old cycles and behaviors you’ve accumulated within your life. Out with the old and in with the new. In order to be open to recieving better you have to assess what types of behaviors you have a habit of holding onto that create the reality you’re living in and also create close proximity to people and types of people whom you don’t like or have mistreated you in the past.

career: for the month of October I’m pulling the two of pentacles upright. You may be juggling some things here or booked and busy throughout the month of October. The month of October for you may have a lot to do with time management and curating work-life balance. You may have been in a situation sometime ago where you had a hard time with work life balance or managing the demand of your work here as well as taking care of yourself and catering to your needs as well. Month of October may be a good time for you to invest in hobbies, invest in self care or find ways to improve your life inside and outside of work. You may be even taking up multiple tasks or starting things within the month of October that have to do with work. Starting school again or in general like I said in your general, going to work and starting your own business or finding ways to make money from multiple streams of income. The month of October and November also look like they may be quite luxurious for you as well. Making a lot of big purchases, spoiling yourself and creating that atmosphere of luxury that you desire. You may even be in the process of creating a lifestyle for yourself from scratch. You’ve had these ideas or have been sitting on these ideas for quite some time and they’re finally coming into fruition for you this season. Fall is looking absolutely glamorous for you pile one. Invest in yourself.

****

pile two:

general: I see one of two things for you here pile two. Some of you may be getting both of these things or one or the other but there’s some energy here regarding recovery from some sort of financial loss or hard times and return from spiritual poverty or a low vibrational state that has lasted you for quite a while here. You may have struggled a lot these past couple of months pile two, struggling with your finances and your physical reality and also struggling internally, clouded state of mind, blocked intuition or feeling simply out of alignment with your desires and the things that you needed here and for some of you who are spiritually in tune and speak to your ancestors or spirit guides or have some sort of connection with the spirit realm you may have felt disconnected from that source of wisdom or guidance. I see you coming up after a hard time and a long time spent down. Strong energy of coming to some sort of conclusion or having some sort of epiphany or coming into alignment with some sort of truth here for a good handful of you. Some of you could even have been somewhat responsible for some of the negative circumstances in your lives as well due to bad decisions, karmic behaviors and habits (particularly trauma based ones like self sabotaging behavior, shutting down or impulsive decisions, etc.) something about your life kind of hit a full stop moment where everything you’ve been dealing with over the past couple years or throughout your life came to a head all at once here. October will be constructive for you pile two. There’s a lot of shifting and purging here being done. You’re in the laboring process of rebirth and there’s some rebuilding you need to do or some intense and important changes in behavior you need to apply to your life here to get what you’ve been trying to manifest or catch the break you want.

love: I’m seeing a lot of contemplation and introspection here for you this October pile two with this four of cups upright. You’ve got three cups in front of you but one isn’t in your line up and something or someone is missing from your life you feel like. You may have some unfinished business from your perspective or a connection you left wide open here OR a connection someone left wide open with you that you still contemplate about or are ruminating on. If you left this connection wide open October may source as a time to reevaluate your choices and your decisions regarding that connection and if someone left the connection wide open with you, you may be reevaluating the connection as a whole, what went on, and what needs to be done to move forward and be rid of it altogether or what needs to be done to push forth reconciliation. High possibility for reconciliation or communication to be had between you and another person no matter what end you stand on in this connection here. I do see you walking away from something here or deciding to move on from something with the eight of cups upright. You may be in another connection or may be entertaining some sort of third party within this ordeal here with tender past connection coming up. You may decide to walk away from that person to seek out closure or some sort of conclusion with your person or this person that’s coming up heavily in your energy. It might be wise to consider all outcomes and/or figure out what you’re going to do in detail pile two. I’m not getting any indication here of reconciliation coming through completely but I do feel that the answer to that is being hidden from me on purpose.

career: there’s a possibility of you going back to doing something you used to do when you were a bit younger or some time ago. You may be taking up different types of work or be invested a career or job right now that’s new to you or isn’t something you’ve done before. You may considering going back to old work or something you have a lot of experience doing. Some sort of specialized trade or hands on craft for some of you. I also see an energy of all work no play for you this October pile two. Looks like you’re hustling or digging deep to bring something into fruition here within the physical or material realm you may be saving up for a large purchase or saving up for a move or contemplating some sort of large decision that’s gonna cost you.

***

pile three:

general: things are looking kind of crazy for you this October pile three. I don’t know it looks like you have a lot going on or there’s going to be a lot this month having to do with choices and opportunities and also the state of mind you’re using to navigate your life or like your mind set at least. You may be trying to manifest something and not be moving in the direction of your manifestations or not be moving at all and sitting with all these dreams and wishes with no action to show for here for some of you. Some of you might be overwhelmed by choices or even potentially intimidated by the life that you’re trying to manifest here. I’m getting the energy of someone deep down inside not fully believing that the reality that they want is realistic or is attainable so sort of just settling for a nice a dream to get you through the week. You could be potentially living in a time in your life right now that’s outside of what you really want or truly desire for yourself here. This one’s kind of specific but some of you may have grown up hard and spent a lot of time daydreaming or thinking about better times as a coping mechanism because there wasn’t anything you could do about your circumstances but you’ve reached a point where those times are behind you and now it’s time to start thriving and stop surviving. You could be coming into some big money here this month or manifesting some big money or a lifestyle full of abundance. I feel called to tell you that you need to start getting your ducks in a row regarding your finances and stop settling for “okay” or something mediocre that may be acceptable or a life well attained by others. You may have gotten something within the past couple of weeks or month or so that was what you had been asking for or looking for but spirit wants to know “okay, now what?” I keep hearing “you’re acting like you’re content, you’re not.” You MUST want some more.

love: okay.. love is ghetto for you in the month of October pile three. I’ve got the tower card upright here. Some of you guys connections are getting a little chaotic or there’s a lot going on here that may result in a full stop or some sort of conflict here. If you’re in a committed relationship I see potential for arguments and disagreements with your partner or further tribulation as I see and feel like you’ve been experiencing some high-highs and low-lows with your person as of late. Disagreements may have to do with who the two of you are as people, karmic and dysfunctional behaviors, and potentially the foundation or history of your relationship or connection here. Some of you aren’t fully connected to anybody at this time but are still investing in some sort of connection regardless with someone at this time. If you’re in separation with someone or have gone no contact with someone, the reason for the separation may be previously stated issues. Theres some unfairness here within your connections, some lack of accountability or even some dishonesty here. A good amount of you are holding onto this connection very tightly whether you realize it or not or feel obligated to hold onto it for your security. Fear of loss may be significant or fear of instability or change may be significant here in the realm of love and relationships for you. We often find that issues in our relationships reflect much finer and deeper issues within ourselves and our perception of the world. Turn inwards and look at yourself and what it is you’re trying to avoid or run from by holding onto these connections and assess if these fears reflect back to you something that needs to be desperately worked on or if it has anything to do with the other person you’re with at all. Then you can make some wise decisions in your relationships

career: some blockages in your material and physical world are apparent here, falls right into what we talked about in the general portion of your reading. Difficult decisions, weighing up or observing your options (and potentionally what you have to lose since a great deal of you may be fearing loss or some instability for a handful of you you don’t know what’s to come in a reality where you reach a little higher like if you’ll actually get up there or not or how far you may fall if you mess it up or at least that’s one of your blockages or fears) there’s also some avoidance here or stagnancy regarding stepping forward and moving forward. Some of you could be water signs or air signs as well. Theres an entire life waiting for you on the other side of that door but you won’t see any of it, have any of it or accomplish anything at all if you don’t invest your time and energy into your personal goals, into stomping out that fear of the unknown and fear of success, and start moving in the direction of your highest form of alignment here. Theres some misguided energy or some fumes being burnt up on dead end realities, relationships, attatchments, etc. it’s time to get your life together and bring your reality into fruition. Let go of all that’s no longer serving you and grab onto things that will.