#and I’m training with lil apps to keep me focused

[houseofthewyvern]

I downloaded that Fantasy Hike app that tracks your steps in terms of how long it would take you to walk from the Shire to Mount Doom and it lets you have friends on the app so if anybody else uses it I would love to have some friends to share progress with

[leafsbabe]

Alexander Kerfoot - little one

not really an imagine more like a lil blurb from a prompt i got, 800 words, cw: pregnancy

"Alexander” You called out to your fiancé. It was the perfect cozy night, all cuddled up in some soft blankets and fluffy socks on your feet the only way things could be improved would be your fiancé next to you. And maybe some food. Nearly done with the second trimester you had had all the pregnancy side effects. Morning sickness, aching muscles, and recently the weird food cravings.

“What? What?” He came running into the living room looking concerned, hair still wet from the shower he just took. “Are you okay? Is the baby okay?”

You couldn’t help but smile at his concern, hand coming up to protectively rest on your small bump. “Everything’s fine. We’re okay.” You tried calming him down. “I just wanted to know if you wanted some food? The baby is craving cheese fries.”

He pulled a face and you knew he was trying to decide between following his meal plan or getting some late night junk food but you knew that you would get some for him, just in case. And if he didn’t want anything then that just means more food for you and the baby.

“Can you get me a milkshake?” He finally asked. Nodding you added a milkshake to your order on the delivery app.

Dinner had been around two hours ago but the little one wanted more. You could feel them moving around, a faint feeling in your stomach and you couldn’t help running your hand over your bump again. The baby hadn’t moved strong enough for Alexander to feel them but you were sure it was only a matter of time.

With the food on the way you settled back on the couch while Alexander finished up before joining you. It felt nice to just relax with your fiancé, cuddle up and watch some trash tv. You scrolled through your phone a bit, switching from keeping track of the order and scrolling through instagram to the sound of people being dramatic on the tv. Calm nights like this were a luxury during the season. You were just glad that the Leafs had two whole days off with only some training. Alexander hadn’t been able to make the last few appointments so he wasn’t able to see the baby live in a while. It meant a lot to him though so you made sure to schedule the next one for tomorrow when he had time.

The doorbell interrupted your thoughts but before you could do anything Alexander had already gotten up and went to answer the door. He came back with your food, putting the take out bag on the table and taking the container out of the bag before removing the lid and handing it to you. As much as you loved him, ever since you found out about the pregnancy Alexander on doing even the simplest tasks for you as if the baby prevented you from opening your own cheese fries.

“Thank you.” You told him, digging in. The fries were just what you needed right now. So far you hadn’t had any weird food cravings but at this moment you really considered maybe adding mayo to the fries. “This is awesome.” You basically moaned, piling more fries on your fork. The baby definitely thought so too because they didn’t waste any time, basically playing soccer with your insides. You were glad that they weren’t strong enough to hurt you yet. “The baby agrees.”

You rested your free hand on your bump, slowly rubbing your stomach where the baby was kicking.

“Yeah?” Alexander asked, placing one of his hands near yours. “I’m glad they’re happy.”

Before you could say anything more he suddenly pulled his hand away, flinching as if he was burned.

“What?”

He put both hands on your stomach this time, running them all over the bump before letting out a loud laugh. “I felt them!” He nearly yelled. “I felt them kick!”

You could feel the baby turn it up a bit, getting more active and kicking more. “Maybe you should talk more.”

Alexander immediately got up close and personal with your bump, sliding off the couch to kneel before you, basically smushing his face against you stomach. “Hello baby.” He started. “Hello little one, this is your daddy speaking..” He trailed off, talking about your families and hockey and whatever came to his mind. After a while you stopped paying attention and focused back on your food, leaving your fiancé and the bump to bond while you ate and watched tv. You occasionally reached down, stroking your bump or playing with Alexander’s curls but you mostly just let them bond in peace.

You couldn’t wait for the appointment tomorrow when you and Alexander could see your baby again. He would truly be the best dad.

[fuckingthefictional]

One more hour

Pairing: Philip Hamilton x Reader

AN: yoooo I highly recommend listening to Anthony Ramos- ‘One more hour’ while reading this. I gave up half way through but enjoy anyway!

Philip, what happened to you last night?”

“My man, It's crazy”

“Bro, you disappeared, did you leave with Y/N?”

“Yeah man, we were just hanging out man, and then we just kept goin' from one spot to another and-“

“What time did y'all get in?”

“like five or six or something like that, the sun was definitely coming up”

“Are you serious?”

“Yeah, let me tell you about it”

Here's how it happened- Downtown Manhattan, Chillin' with everybody in the cast and Pregame of swiftin' After work sippin'

Before moving to a big city, Y/N could never have possibly anticipated the sound of traffic being even remotely calming.

However, the longer she lived in a busy city, the more she learned to appreciate the sound of people in their cars.

It was oddly calming, the idea of hundreds of thousands of different people going about their lives.

The idea never ceased to get her creativity flowing, she could just listen for hours to the soft hum of engines for hours on end.

“Hey Y/N.”

Y/N felt her body jump in surprise as she heard someone speak in front of her, looking up from her work , she turned to find Philip Hamilton stood by her.

They’d both worked together at the New York Post for a couple of years now- ever since the pair had both been interns, fresh out of college.

It was fair to say that Y/N had a crush on Philip since the first time they met

“A bunch of us are going to Montero’s after work, d’you fancy coming with?”

Y/N swore she could feel her heart stop in her chest.

“M-me?” The woman stuttered in shock, her eyes wide and brows high.

Philip chuckled nervously, as he rubbed the back of his neck, “I mean yeah, I’d really like it if you came- o-only if you want to, of course”

Y/N found herself giggling at the curly haired boys nervousness, “I’d love to,” she smiled in response,” what time are we all leaving?”

“Planning on leaving at around 6, and then staying out for however long we feel like.” He flashed his pearly whites in her direction, making Y/N’s heart flutter once again.

“Okay,” looking down at her outfit she sighed in frustration. It was very... professional, “I wish I’d brought something to change into now.”

“You really don’t need a change of clothes Y/N,” Philip skimmed his eyes up and down her outfit, before clearing his throat, “You look good in everything...”

You could feel your face turn pink, as you became flustered.

“...Especially when you blush like that.”

One drink to two 'til we on the train trippin'. Four four and A, Let's take the A. We gettin' lit 'cause we had a long day- Spot ain't too far, Big crew to start. But now we alone talkin' shit at the bar

Y/N found herself sipping a last gulp of her glass of wine, she savouring the taste in her mouth as she listened to her coworker, Theo chatter on about her engagement.

It was hard to keep focused on the other woman though, as Y/N kept catching Philip’s gaze from across the bar.

It wasn’t long at all before Philip strolled over with a few more of Y/N’s coworkers in tow. In his hands he held an additional glass of wine in his hands, which he slid towards her as he sat down in the both beside her.

“Is this for me?” Y/N questioned the curly haired boy.

“Only if you want it,” Philip shrugged, “Just thought you deserved another round, especially after the day we’ve had.”

Y/N giggled softly as she bumped his shoulder against hers, “thank you, I really appreciate it.”

Hours ticked by as fellow Coworkers began to pack up their things and say their farewells.

And it wasn’t long until it was just Philip and herself sat alone talking at the bar together.

It was strange, how comfortable Y/N felt with Philip. Obviously they knew each Other well, but around him it felt like time moved quickly without her knowledge.

“Holy crap, do you remember George Eaker?” Y/N laughed into her wine glass, as she remembered what a stupid situation she had been placed into.

“Oh God- he was an asshole.” Philip grumbled.

“He wasn’t that bad!”

“He flirted with you non-stop for a month- it was horrible.”

The young woman smiled cheekily at the guy in front of her, “Aw is lil Pip jealous?” She ruffled his soft head of hair, watching as he flushed red in response.

Then we held eyes way too long, started feeling something more- always been just friends before. Now I don't really wanna go!

“Well maybe I was.” He muttered under a bated breath.

Y/N swore she felt her body freeze up, since when did Philip like her like this? I mean she wasn’t complaining but- they’d always been “just friends”.

They held eye contact for a few moments, something that had to be too long to be considered a normal friend thing.

As she looked into Philip’s eyes, she noticed a gnawing feeling in her stomach, one that told her: ‘she didn’t want to be just friends with Pip- she wanted something more.’

Now this place is closin', they callin' last round, I got another spot around the corner if you down. Tomorrow we ain't workin', so maybe one more? But homie, no pressure, we can call it if you want

“It’s probably time we go,” Y/N spoke softly, “they’re calling last rounds.” She downed the rest of the wine in her glass as she started working on gathering up her things.

The bar was slowly becoming more and more desolate, as the customers began to filter out of the exit and into the streets.

A select few of the patrons were working on getting a last order in, before the bar shut for the night.

Philip cleared his throat, “Y’know, I know another place around the corner if you’re down to go?” He took a few seconds to rethink his words, as a moment later he added on a panicked, “But no pressure, we can call it a night if you want?”

She said, "Nah, let's make a move, and I'ma trust you. But if this place is wack you gon' be callin’ my- Ooh

Y/N mulled over the decision in her mind for a minute. She really wanted to.

“Oh what the hell!” The young woman declared, “we’re not working tomorrow, but I swear to God Pip if this place is whack you’ll be the one having to call my parents”

Philip chuckled in response, as he hopped off of the bar stool and held his hand out for her to take.

Without even a second thought, she took his larger hand in hers.

Philip’s palms were warm (but not sweaty or clammy) Which played a huge contrast in comparison to Y/N’s own freezing cold hands, And whenever he squeezed her hand in excitement- Y/N could feel the butterflies erupt in her belly.

It was small things like this, that never failed to make Y/N fall more in love with Philip Hamilton.

5 minutes of walking later, Philip finally halted in front of a rather rustic looking bar- that maybe was beginning to border i on scrappy looking.

The neon sign above the entrance read ‘Valentinos’ in a glowing red font.

Y/N would be lying if she said that she wasn’t nervous about entering the building.

“My dad and his friends used to frequent here back in college,” Philip explained, before continuing on “it’s usually quite quiet and it stays open late.”

Y/N could feel her heart hammering inside her chest- she didn’t know what to make of this place.

Her anxiety was obviously noticed by the young man holding her hand, as seconds later he took her face in his hands.

Philip gently caressed her cheeks as he spoke softly in a soothing manner, “I don’t want to force you into anything that you’re not comfortable with- But I promise it’ll be safe inside.”

Y/N found herself listening to his words.

Philip wouldn’t put her in any immediate danger- she could feel it.

Inside the bar was better than Y/N had expected, it was clean and there were plenty of spare tables to sit at.

So they sat, sipping their new sounds of drinks, at the back of the bar.

Slowly letting time slip in between their fingertips.

Never mind, never mind, ‘cause soon as we arrive, got a spot up in the back, back to losing track of time.

Hours later, both Philip and Y/N stumbled out of Valentino’s- slightly tipsy and high on life.

Outside was dark, and it was obvious how late the night had gotten.

Y/N wasn’t even overly surprised when she looked at her phone, And found that the time was half past 3 in the morning.

the dim glow of the street lights lit up the strips of sidewalk, And the bustle had for the most part stopped.

But she could still hear the sound of the trains below their feet, as the transport continued to set off and arrive to and from the subway platform.

And other than that, the only thing Y/N could hear was the steady breathing coming from Philip.

“It's been a good night, I mean, I hope we can do this again for real,” he pulled Y/N closer, wrapping his arms around her waist. But Y/N didn’t mind one bit, “but We should probably head out ‘Cause, you know- There's nowhere else to go, ‘should probably head on home.”

Y/N watched Philip take his phone out of his pocket, as he pressed on the Uber app. Ready to call Y/N a cab back home.

“Stop!” Y/N didn’t know what urged her to take Philip’s face into her hands, but she followed through as she followed on, “Let's go one more hour! Usually I'm gone now- I'm not ready, I don't really wanna go.”

A split second later Philip’s mouth was on hers, as the pair met in a hot, passionate kiss.

It was everything that Y/N could’ve imagined, as the young man tugged at her Y/H/C locks on her head.

She let out a pleasured groan at the sensation, and she could feel Philip’s smile pressing up against her lips.

“One more hour huh?” Philip mumbled, “Does that include being at my apartment?”

[ladyherenya]

Books read in September

I fell down a couple of rabbit holes -- that’s my metaphor of choice for when I ignore my TBR list and get distracted reading other things, usually in a search for comfort reading.

Also, I clicked the wrong thing in the Kindle app at 1am and now I have a free trial of Kindle Unlimited so I decided I might as well make use of it.

Favourite cover: A Conspiracy in Belgravia.

Reread: Obsidio by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff, Penric’s Mission and Mira’s Last Dance by Lois McMaster Bujold and Exit Strategy by Martha Wells.

Still reading: The Princess Who Flew with Dragons by Stephanie Burgis.

Next up: Pumpkinheads by Rainbow Rowell and Faith Erin Hicks.

(Longer reviews and ratings are on LibraryThing. And also Dreamwidth.)

The Bride Test by Helen Hoang: Khai hasn’t found a girlfriend, so his mother arranges for a young woman from Vietnam to come to California for the summer, to see if she and Khai will suit each other. This is romance, a genre which doesn’t always share my narrative priorities -- some things are resolved too neatly, and I’d have liked more of Esme’s relationship with her daughter and of her adult education classes -- but I enjoyed reading this, so I’m not complaining. I liked how Hoang portrays Khai’s autism. He has a greater capacity for love than he realises, he just needs support to understand his feelings.

Secrets of a Sun King by Emma Carroll (narrated by Victoria Fox): I read this because I love the narrator and really liked Carroll’s Letters From the Lighthouse. This book is set post-WWI, and involves friendship, family secrets and the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb. Lil’s grandfather is in hospital and she becomes convinced that his recovery depends upon her solving the mystery surrounding the package sent to him by a famous and now-deceased Egyptologist. I predicted the twists, but I can see how this would strongly appeal to children who want a blend of history, adventure and mystery with a hint of fantasy. (Where was this when I was twelve?)

The Spirit Ring by Lois McMaster Bujold: Fantasy set in Renaissance Italy. Fiametta, daughter of a master mage and goldsmith, witnesses a violent coup. She flees -- and meets Thur, a guardsmen’s younger brother coming to Montefolgia for an apprenticeship. This was published in 1992, after Bujold had published several Vorkosigan books and won a few Hugos, so I wasn’t expecting it to feel so, well, rough by comparison. That said, bits of it still shine! The plot makes every detail count, the final confrontation is memorable and I liked the characters. And it’s interesting to consider this as a precursor to Bujold’s World of the Five Gods.

A Royal Pain by Meg Mulry: This turned up when I was searching Overdrive for something else (Goodness knows why, none of my search words are its title or description). It sounded like it might be entertaining, maybe a bit like The Princess Diaries. It isn’t, at least not enough for me. Two-thirds through I decided to abandon it -- and then a bit later I decided I might as well skim read to the end and see how everything turned out. I don’t feel qualified to say anything insightful, I just wandered in here by mistake...

The Enchanted April (1922) by Elizabeth von Armin (narrated by Nadia May): Four women respond to a newspaper advertisement and rent a house in Italy for the month of April. This is delightfully funny and observant, with idyllic descriptions of spring in Italy. I liked the friendships which develop between four very different women, and the way they are challenged -- or inspired -- to reconsider their opinions about others. The ending is, unsurprisingly, very tidy and conventional. (Not many options for happy endings a 1920s novelist could easily give to unhappily married women.) Reading nothing but sunshine and fairytale endings would become unsatisfying, no matter how wonderful the prose, but sometimes it’s just want one wants.

The “Lady Sherlock” series by Sherry Thomas:

A Conspiracy in Belgravia: Disgraced Charlotte Holmes has found a home with the widowed Mrs Watson and an income under the persona of “Sherlock Holmes”. Her latest case sounds simple but is complicated by connections to the wife of Charlotte’s closest friend and Charlotte’s half-brother. Meanwhile, Charlotte has a marriage proposal to consider, ciphers to crack, and a murder victim to identify. I like the way certain qualities of Doyle’s characters are assigned to different characters -- so Charlotte’s sister Livia is writing stories about Sherlock, and Mrs Watson’s niece has medical training. I enjoyed reading this and immediately embarked on the next book.

The Hollow of Fear: I could not put this book down -- the stakes are so high and personal! But in the end I didn’t find this a wholly satisfying mystery because much of the tension is the result of Charlotte concealing a lot about her suspicions and plans. It’s fun watching Charlotte in disguise, and I don’t mind some misdirection, nor Charlotte keeping thoughts to herself. That fits with her character. But the extent of it felt contrived. Disappointment aside, I liked the journey, thought one of the twists was handled with particular deftness, and I am eager to read the sequel.

The Huntress by Kate Quinn (narrated by Saskia Maarlveld): A long, complex, powerful three-stranded story about war and its aftermath. In Boston in 1946, Jordan, a teenager passionate about photography, is suspicious of her new stepmother. In Germany in 1950, war correspondent Ian now hunts war criminals. And in Siberia before the war, Nina becomes a pilot. From the beginning, this was interesting, with tense scenes. But I wasn’t strongly invested, and I was unsure of the narrative’s structure. As the story continued, I discovered that it is richer and more nuanced because of its structure --  and that I was becoming very attached to these characters. Surprisingly so.

The “Dear Professor” series by Penny Reid

Kissing Galileo: The description made me curious, so I looked at the sample chapters... and, unexpectedly, was convinced I should read this book. Because it’s smart and funny! And I liked how the characters deal with an awkward and potentially very problematic situation. (Emily works as a lingerie model, and when her professor visits the store, he doesn’t recognise her.) I really enjoyed the progression of their relationship -- how obviously they like each other’s company and care about each other, how they have an intellectual connection that goes hand-in-hand physical attraction, how they learn to understand each other better.

Kissing Tolstoy: The first book is about Emily’s friend Anna, who signs up for a Russian literature class, unaware that the professor is someone she accidentally had an almost-date with. This is a shorter than Kissing Galileo, nearly novella-length, and because I read them back-to-back, suffered somewhat in comparison -- it’s less complex, and features a professor who doesn’t deal quite so well with being attracted to one of his students. I wasn’t so convinced their relationship was a good idea. But there’s some entertaining awkwardness and people being opinionated about Russian literature. I liked Anna’s nerdy interests and her friendship with Emily.

Marriage of Inconvenience by Penny Reid: I was curious what else Reid has written and sometimes I like fake relationships stories.  This book makes a convoluted set-up feel plausible. I liked how Kat and Dan’s relationship developed, I liked the ratio of romance to plot, and I liked how involved and supportive all their friends were. But my enjoyment ebbed as I read, which is probably a reflection on what I want from this sort of story rather than on this book’s merits. I don’t find the corporate city setting very interesting or appealing.

Dr. Strange Beard by Penny Reid: I enjoy stories where characters are passionate about their interests.  In this, one of the characters is a vet but his job had no real presence in the story. What a waste.

A Desperate Fortune by Susanna Kearsley: Sara accepts a job decoding a ciphered diary from 1732. The diary is written by Mary, a half-Scottish woman raised in France, who agrees to disguise an Englishman by pretending to be his sister. I like how these two stories sit together. There’s a gentleness to Sara’s, as she discovers things she likes, including the sensory delights of winter in France and people who accept her. In contrast, Mary’s is full of danger, deception and the discomfort of travel. But there’s also subtle, common threads running throughout: life-changing choices and trusting people. I liked so many things in this book.

Echo in Onyx by Sharon Shinn: Brianna becomes the maid for the governor’s daughter, who has three “echoes”. When one of Marguerite's echoes is killed defending Marguerite, Brianna disguises herself as the echo so that they can conceal the incident. The concept of echoes is unusual and Shinn has clearly given careful thought to how they would affect society and daily life for those who have them, as well as reasons for their existence.  I wasn’t surprised by the final twists, because I know how Shinn usually deals with injustice, but parts were still quite tense. And I liked Brianna’s attitude -- so sunny and resourceful and loyal.

A House of Rage and Sorrow by Sangu Mandanna: I really liked A Spark of White Fire so I was surprised by my reaction to this sequel. Halfway through, I was pushing myself to stay focused and just wanted to cross it off the list. So I left it there. I don’t know if there was something in the pacing or the first book’s ending which stopped me from caring -- or if I just wasn’t in the mood to read about rage and sorrow and things going to hell in a handbasket. I might try again one day. I did like the first one.

[mercedesbarnes]

Come Home Soon

summary: Bucky’s away on a mission during the holiday season, and you hope he can make it in time for your Secret Santa exchange.

pairing: Bucky x reader 

word count: 1,867

warnings: tiny bit of angst if you squint, holiday fluff

a/n: Merry Christmas to all those who celebrate today! I hope you enjoy this cute lil story, and have a good day with your loved ones.

I wish I could be there

We’ll do a rain check and exchange when you’re back

Bucky takes a minute to respond to your text, and you know he's running a hand through his hair.

It’s okay, Y/N. You can open the presents without me. I’ll get mine later.

Later is too long

A few weeks is too long?

Yes

“Patience” -Steve Rogers

Hahaha very funny Barnes

Who am I supposed to decorate with now?

:(

Save a snowflake for me?

I will. Come home soon, Buck. I miss your interior decorating.

You don't miss me? Ouch.

Nah.

......

Ok, maybe I miss you a little.

I miss you too.

You can't stop the giddy feeling that arises in your chest at his message, doing away with a small part of your worries. Until your phone chimes again.

Gotta go, doll, duty calls. Ask Steve to help you. He’s got an eye for the lights.

Okay, I’ll try him. Be safe.

See you soon. x

Mindlessly swiping across your home screens without looking, Bucky's message bounces around your brain like a game of ping pong.

Soon. Soon. Soon.

Bucky has been gone 4 weeks and 3 days, an absence only made bearable by his daily texts and weekly FaceTimes. When he calls, his display picture really does light up your screen. The low quality photo of Bucky frowning had been his attempt at intimidation, but he had been trying not to smile at you behind the camera so he wasn't very successful.  Something about the memory makes you hide your own goofy smile behind a hand until you can get it under control enough to accept the call, every time.

Any sound of the catchy ringtone gets you retreating to the nearest empty room so he has your focused attention while you describe your days or if he needs to talk to you in the middle of the night.

But even with the contact you miss him, and it is hard. You miss him like crazy. You miss him in a way that you aren't quite allowed to, because you and Bucky are simply the best of friends and nothing more. Except somewhere along the line you started to see him in a different light, and there are moments, like the display photo one, where you wonder what he's thinking when he looks at you. Though, you don't push it since you'd rather have him as a friend than not at all.

Either way, soon isn't coming soon enough.  

“Who you texting?” Steve asks as he enters the room to see you seated on the brown L-shaped leather couch. His voice startles you out of your staring contest with the burning fireplace in front of you.

“Bucky,” you say with a sigh, locking your phone sadly. “He’s not going to make it for our Secret Santa exchange.”

“T'Challa and him must be working overtime in Wakanda.”  Steve settles beside you and cracks open a water bottle, propping his legs up on the ottoman to warm his sock-covered feet.  "It's supposed to take six weeks, so the project should be done soon."

There's that word again. Soon.

“I know," you exhale, rubbing at your eyes. "I just miss him, is all.”

"Me too."

A peaceful silence settles over the two of you as you watch the flames.  Your thoughts keep wandering back to Bucky, and Steve's reaction means your face is probably doing something to express who you're thinking about.  As he takes a swig of water Steve fixes you with a look you can’t quite place. It's some mixture of curiosity and sympathy and it's going on far too long. For someone who is, as Bucky repeatedly tells you, an oblivious punk when it comes to relationships, you're sure that Steve will figure out what's going on in your mind if he keeps this up.

So you poke his toned stomach. “Wanna help me decorate this place?”

"Let's do it."

"Woah."

"Woah indeed."

After hours of Mariah Carey and Michael Bublé , the room is finally decorated. Bucky was right:  Steve does have a knack for the aesthetic. Thank goodness for the art student in him.

Long strings of tiny fairy lights hang on the walls and around the doorways, casting a soft white glow over the common area and making it seem like snow reincarnated.  A tall fir tree in the corner gives the room a pleasant smell and is similarly decorated in silver tinsel and ornaments, reflecting the light of the stone fireplace nearby. Above the flames hang red stockings with each Avenger's name stitched on them in green.  Steve even tied a bow around the handle of Mjolnir, who had been left on the coffee table. The whole scene truly is picturesque, more homely than ever, and it already feels like the holidays.

You bump your hip to Steve's. “Doesn’t look half bad, Rogers.”

"Not bad, Y/N, not bad at all," he says, admiring your work on the snowflakes taped to the walls. He nudges you again and with a teasing smile begins to sing, "It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas..."

"Everywhere you go!"

TWO WEEKS LATER

"Okay! Who wants to open first?"

Natasha's the quickest and she digs excitedly in her bag after checking the gift tag to see who it's from.  "Aw, new scarf, thanks Y/N!" She wraps it around herself and revels in the fabric, and you smile at your present being well-received.

Some presents are practical, like Thor's to Bruce (pants made out of the finest Asgardian stretchy fabric with “The Revengers” on the butt), while others are just practical jokes, like Sam's to Steve.

"I'm never going to live this down, am I?"

"Hey man," Sam says with his hands up and a wicked grin, "I just heard you were wondering about fondue so I thought I'd educate America's favourite senior citizen."

"A fondue kit is very thoughtful, thank you," Steve chuckles as he carefully puts it back in the bag. "Y/N, go on next."

You tug at the red silky bow to make it come loose, laughing at Sam's high fives to the others as you rip off wrapping paper to reveal a simple black jewelry box. The hinge makes a satisfying crack as you open it and your eyes widen. Inside, on a black felt backing, rests a shiny silver chain with a heart hanging from it. It's beautiful and takes your breath away.

“Who...” you whisper as you lift the chain from the felt, your trembling fingers cradling the precious gift. “who is this from..”

Even though you aren’t looking at him, you know Steve’s half-smiling when he answers. “You know who.”

Of course it's from him. Who else knows you like this, better than you know yourself? Tears prickle in your eyes and threaten to fall onto your upturned lips when you admire the heart, because he remembered you preferred silver jewelry over gold.  This present...it seems far too intimate to be exchanged between friends, but you quickly shake away that thought. Anyways, he always treats you with the utmost respect and dedication, so why should this be any different?

“Bucky really wanted to give it to you in person,” Steve reassures you quietly with a hand on your knee. "But if he couldn't be here he still wanted you to open it today."

You nod. Taking care not to have the clasp stuck in your sweater fabric, you put on the necklace as the hustle and bustle of the exchange continues. Its weight is comforting.  Somehow, having the cool chain on your skin also gifts you the knowledge that Bucky is here for the holidays in spirit, and you feel yourself getting excited at the prospect of seeing him again to thank him, whenever that may be.

It takes a moment before you realize you can thank him now.  Grabbing your phone, you search to find Bucky's name in the FaceTime app. You're a second away from pressing the call button when the door swings open.

In steps a very windswept Bucky, still in his gear and a duffel bag in one hand.

"Hi," Bucky says. "Am I late?"

And the whole room goes silent.

Maybe everyone is still talking, calling out seasons greetings. Maybe they really did stop. You don't know, since all you hear is the slow click of your shoes as you get up and make your way across the room and over to him.  The lights in the doorway have him stand out from the now-blurry background and make him the only real thing you can see.  

Bucky's arms open with a relieved smile, his bright eyes trained on yours the whole way. In them there's a new look when he notices that you're wearing his necklace, something like pure, unbridled adoration. It's this look that makes you ignore his hug and gently touch his biceps, chest, neck, before pulling him down to meet your lips.

Bucky groans and immediately drops the bag. His hands are warm as they find your hips, tugging you impossibly closer while you cradle his face in your hands. He is kissing you back, soft but insistent, and you are dizzy. Your fingers randomly tug at the ends of his hair since your brain can't think straight, and warmth consumes your chest when the kiss is deepened and you both sigh like you've been waiting a lifetime for this.

Nothing in this universe can ever feel as good as his slightly chapped lips do overlapping on yours, because every movement makes your heart soar.  You don't ever want to stop.  You want to keep kissing him for the rest of your life.

When you finally pull back, not even trying to control your goofy grin as you catch your breath, his cheeks are so flushed and he looks as dazed as you feel. A tiny part of your brain registers the cheers coming from the other people in the room. You don't pay them any mind, for your forehead is still on Bucky's, and he's beaming at you.

“Bucky....” He must be giving the breath of life to your lungs, because you've never felt this alive.  “Thank you.”

He wraps his arms tight around your waist so you can't move away from him. Not that you want to. "For what, doll?"  

"For the necklace and being here."

"I wouldn't miss this for anything. Especially now that I get to kiss you whenever I want." And he does, again, to more whoops from the audience.

There are a few more small kisses before Bucky finally lets you go to change into something more comfortable.  He returns in a nice grey sweater and jeans, and the celebrations can continue with the entire team together.

Steve gets to him first. "Happy holidays, Buck. Welcome home. "

"Yeah, you too. Thanks, Stevie." They hug, clapping each other solidly on the back before joining you on the couches. He winks at you.  "It's good to be home."

You kiss his cheek and he snuggles an arm comfortably around your side.  You can't help but think about how right he is.

Bucky on your left. Your friends on your right.

Feels like home.

Tag List (open!):  @parkerstcr ,  @buckys-fossil , @fxckmebuck , @langinator , @seeyainanotherlifebrotha , @secondstartotheright-imagines , @the-renaissance , @miraisnotavailable , @winchesterandpie  , @whyisbuckyso  , @supernatural-girl97  , @aekr ,  @bootypoppinbarnes , @sebashtiansatan ,  @engineeringgirlcve  , @sanjariti , @rotisserierogers , @feelmyroarrrr

[lynccycling]

Humpday got you feeling down? In an uninspired funk and can’t get out? Not feeling motivated to chase your goals? We feel you, it happens. Which is why each LYNC instructor has tools to stay focused & on their game. Take a scroll down motivation lane and maybe pick up a tip or two to get you back on track.

Becca

I loooovvvvveeee taking Teddy on a walk or run (whatever Ted is feeling that day) and leaving my phone at home to be in my own headspace and one with nature if we go through Arbor Hills! I also love to listen to one of my new fav podcast “The Last Podcast on the Left” which is about anything from conspiracy theories to true crime or historical facts (history has ALWAYS been my fav subject) while cooking or cleaning around the house! Maybe its the Mexi in me but cleaning is a huge reliever for me! Clean house = happy lil becky!

Our favorite cleaning products? Mrs. Meyers infused with essential oils.

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Grace

I LOVE getting in my kitchen and cooking a yummy meal. I always start with a trip to the grocery store (probs Trader Joes) to pick up the ingredients.. I'm one of those weird humans that find grocery shopping SO therapeutic. I am currently OBSESSED with Alex from the Defined Dish, who just so happens to be a Dallas gal!  One of my favorites right now is her Shrimp Remoulade Lettuce Cups recipe! Of course, finishing it off with some healthy sweet treats, like this Banana Bread! 

This all happens while I'm listening to one of my favorite light hearted podcasts,  The Lady Gang.  When things get off track, a good belly laugh and a great healthy meal is always a great reset!

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Avery

I start my day with quiet time every morning accompanied by my devotional (@jesuscalling) and podcasts The Porch.

After quiet time, I take about 5-10 minutes every hour at work to listen to a few songs that make me happy (no shocker that Jess Glynne and Betty Who are at the top for me rn)

After work, I love walks on the Katy Trail or White Rock Lake, wine bars (leelas always) and cooking meals with my friends (favorite food blogger is definitely skinny taste). At night I try my hardest to unplug and focus on friends/family as much as possible.

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Andrew

This music definitely isn’t everyone’s thing, but the band August Burns Red has picked me up when I’m down, pushed my butt through tough workouts, gotten me focused at work, you name it, more times than I can count. Their lyrics are really powerful, and they wrote one of my all time favorites:

“Don’t excuse yourself from life today on the pretense of your past.” Let that sink in.

Alt response: I pet my dog or take him for a walk if he’s nearby, or just look at pictures of him on my phone because he’s stinking cute and it’s a good reminder that I need to keep it together for the people who love me and doggos that depend on me.

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Ashleigh

One of my favorite things to do (other than a good sweat sesh on the bike) is surfing. I used to go out to California and surf at San Clemente beach all the time when I was younger. It was a great way to slow down my mind and be focused on the present moment. HOWEVER there aren’t many beaches in d-town so I usually hop into a pool and swim it out or roll out my yoga mat at Hot Body Yoga. It’s a great way to control my breathing and something about being under water is relaxing to me.

When I need to get sh!t done, one of My favorite coffee shops is Global Peace. You can usually find me there writing or emailing with a cappuccino in hand. Also I LOVE coffee. Oh did I say love, I meant I’m addicted. Same thing right?

I’m also a BIG fan of live music and on the weekend if anyone is in town playing I try to make an effort to go out and support. It helps me get out of my head and is a good excuse to just sit back and enjoy some of my favorite tunes. My must see bands are: night riots, jet black alley cat, band Camino, State champs, Greta Van Fleet and Marianas Trench.

Look up concerts near you. One of our favorite venues? Granada theater!

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Liz

I love, and wish I did it more, putting my phone away when I’m home and being in the moment with my family (but of course grabbing it to document Noah dance parties and special memories). Five minutes with my son (if he is napped and fed 🙈) can cure five bad days. 

Between teaching/training clients/and all the hustle I also really enjoy silence. I rarely listen to music while driving nowadays because I’ve found that my mind tries to start programming and/or choreographing whenever a song is playing- so having quiet time to disconnect is important. I also love to jump in a class and go into student mode.

Check out 10 apps to help you put down your phone and get back to the moment.

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Jaz

When the weather is nice, I love doing outdoor activities and being near water! Paddle boarding, swimming, and BBQing are my go-to day-off favs. I also enjoy a homemade coffee in the morning to kick start my day and going out back to wake up and check on my pepper plants and succulents. Planting is very peaceful to me. I love watching things grow.

Check out this 101 on starting your own herb garden.

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Sydney

Outside of teaching, I love group fitness and enjoy taking classes at LYNC and around Dallas to let out nervous energy. I like to decompress by reading, listening to podcasts, and listening to LANY and John Mayer.

I listen to The Morning Toast and The Lady Gang - totally light hearted, but makes me bust out laughing in the car and puts me in a good mood before teaching.

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Kayla

To stay motivated, I read... a lot. I read everything from nonfiction true crime stories and self development books to fiction novels to self-published articles on Medium. You can catch me searching my inbox at the Barnes & Noble check-out line for a coupon for a new book or sitting at Mudleaf Coffee shop (a super cool space in Plano) with headphones in listening to Audible.

My go-to read is anything by Brené Brown (Daring Greatly is my fave). She is a vulnerability researcher, specializing in shame. (wow, couldn’t we all dive a little deeper into that?) 

I also love to listen to Gary Vee’s Podcast to keep me focused in the business world. He touches on marketing tactics, struggles in business and life, leadership development and more–and TBH he’s just brutally honest and sometimes I just need a good kick in the ass and for someone to tell it to me straight.

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Shannon

I like to take 10-15 minutes out of my morning to meditate to help level set me at the beginning of my day. My favorite app is “10% Happier” because it has courses, guided and unguided meditations and you can customize the time to whatever fits your schedule!

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Kelsey

I love a good story. I’m old school and really enjoy going to the bookstore and getting a physical copy. Lately my favorites have been ‘This Is How It Always Is’ and ‘Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine’. Put it with quiet time outside in the sun or snuggled with coffee and my puppy in the morning - foolproof feel good.

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Olivia

I love going to Title Boxing to punch out all of my feelings. Whether I need a release or am excited and want to celebrate an hour of hard work–gallons of sweat at Title is always the move for me. 

I also love to take long walks on the weekends with my fave gal pals, Allison, Leina, Izzy, and Madeline to La La Land Kind Cafe or Bird Bakery. We almost always indulge in a sweet treat which for me is the perfect way to celebrate a week well done.

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Izzy

The main thing I do at the moment to recharge is get a good nights sleep. Being in bed by 9pm really excites me, haha!

Also, getting some vitamin D and tanning by the pool on the weekends always puts me in a good mood. I usually end up falling asleep there too lol.

Catch this guided sleep meditation for a little shut eye to keep your mind right and our favorite SPF to lay out in the sun.

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Lindsey

I’d say personal time is the best way to recharge for me! I love walking the Katy Trail while getting out for some sunshine or hot yoga. Hot yoga is such a release for me because It not only calms the mind but gives me a good stretch! My favorite hot Yoga is at Core Power.

I’ve recently been loving EVERY recipe from The Defined Dish who makes clean/easy/whole30 approved meals. Her meals are so tasty and simple to make! Feel good guilty treat that is guaranteed to make any day better is ice cream!

Calling my family always lifts me up and keeps me rooted!  I also really try to put my phone down while at home for 30 minutes at the end of the day and engage in something other than scrolling mindlessly on social media which helps me reconnect with myself and surroundings.\

[seriouslysoulsearching-blog]

Started my job today!

Today was the first day marking the start of my nursing career. There was orientation all about the hospital and it’s values, policies, etc so it was a bit boring sitting in a conference room all day in stiff business clothes and I have three more training days before I’m even on the floor. 

What I’m most proud of myself today was that I wasn’t a nervous wreck! I hate having to travel/navigate somewhere new, meet new people, etc. Normally I feel uncomfortable. But not today! I was cool, calm, collected, and CONFIDENT. 

As I sat at the table, learning about the institution I’m working for and looking out the window at the bridge and skyline, I felt like I am in the right place at the right time in my life. I finally feel like I’m supposed to be a nurse. Like I deserve to be there. Which may sound silly, but honestly, I’ve doubted myself every step of the way during nursing school. I would get positive feedback from my nursing teachers, clinical instructors, and even just nurses on the floor who made me feel like “this is what I’m meant to do” but I never fully believed myself. But honestly, I’m sick and tired of living in doubt and shying away from my true potential.

My therapist and I talked last week about getting ready for my new job. I could feel the self-doubt thoughts creeping in already and asked how I could deal with this before I was consumed by it. And my therapist’s advice was extremely helpful. Each day, I’m going to reflect on the positive of the day--what I learned, what I knew, what I did good with. And each day, each week, each month, I can look back and reflect on my progress! This is such a healthy habit instead of what I normally would do--which is to fixate  on what I didn’t know, what I didn’t do correctly, etc. My therapist also made a good point: they hired me KNOWING I’m BRAND NEW. They’re not gonna be surprised, they’re going to expect to teach me everything. Which is honestly reassuring. It’s not realistic to think I’m going to be a “great nurse” when I literally have zero experience, I am a clean slate. I don’t want to come off as nervous/self-conscious so we also discussed how I can present myself which will be more like “I’m really excited to be here and I’m eager to learn as much as I can because I’m brand new” I think this will help keep my rocky confidence stable and build it up from here with these new habits.

ON A DIFFERENT NOTE... I went on a date(ish) this past Saturday. LOL at myself after swearing off dating and then going out again. This guy, Adam, was someone who I connected with on Bumble before turning my profile off and deleting the app from my phone (for my mental well-being) Adam actually asked me out after the first guy fiasco, and I was upfront about not being ready because I got out of a relationship relatively recently. He said he understood as he too got out of a 3 year relationship in August. A few days went by, I sent him a snapchat video of my cat, and I ended up just texting him. We texted for almost a week straight and discovered how much we have in common. He’s also really funny and my kind of weird. We decided to hang out and watch “It’s Always Sunny” together Saturday night at his apartment (since I haven’t seen it all and it’s leaving Netflix at the end of the year) 

Honestly, we had a good time! I was so nervous I hardly remember what we were talking about but he was showing me shows on Netflix and teaching me how to use chop sticks before the sushi got delivered. We also snuck downstairs to the unit below him since no one is living there yet. It was spooky but fun. He was taller than me (praise jesus) and CUTE. Not necessarily my exact type but still cute and his personality was very attractive. When we met outside his apartment door he hugged me and invited me. He’s just a friendly, goofy guy who made me smell for what the sour food was in his fridge. After we came back upstairs from sneaking around, I went to my purse to get a mint because I didn’t want sushi but struggled to open my gum package open.  I think he might of thought that was a single I wanted to kiss because when I turned around (not successful opening it anyway) he kissed me in the middle of the kitchen. All through out the night I was welcomed to the idea to him kissing me, and while he did, I still welcomed it, HOWEVER, the kissing was a FLOP. We just did not mesh. I couldn’t tell whether he was kissing me on the lips or had his tongue in my mouth so I’d pull away and it felt like we weren’t just kissing on the lips but I didn’t feel his tongue??? Like when I make out, I like serious tongue action. Not like the porn kissing where it looks fucking nasty but more like when your tongues are intertwined passionately. I remember my old high school describing that he wanted to almost play tonsil hockey. Which is hilarious and I appreciate him describing it like that because it turns out I really like it like that. And that is something Adam and I could not agree on. So I pulled away in the kitchen, then we started again in his living room, then moved to his couch where he invited me to sit on him (I like) but the kissing did not improve. Was it because we were both pretty tipsy? We sat on the couch for a couple of minutes talking, and it felt a tad awkward probably because we both didn’t enjoy the kissing. I felt like I was maybe getting the vibe he was “tired”/didn’t want me there, so I said I was gonna get going. He walked me to his front door and hugged me goodbye. 

When I was walking away, I was sure we’d probably never hang out again. Which was sort of a bummer because he has a great personality. So when I got home, I texted him and thanked him again for the dinner, told him I had a really good time, and said I wasn’t sure how he felt about it but if he wanted to hang out again, to let me know. Well....he didn’t text back Sunday afternoon but what he said was actually kind of hopeful. I had to consult Kelly and Kira about his text because I couldn’t get a sense on whether he sounded sincere. He said something along the lines of “i had a lot of fun, you’re really cool. i’ll be on a business trip for 12 days (which is true--we talked about it) but maybe when I get back we can hang out” the maybe is what stumped me.

I got some polar advice on how to text back. Kira recommended saying something like “I’d like that! Let me know when you’re back in town” and just saying that. Kelly, however, said I shouldn’t respond at all. She went on to tell me that I should enter the my career feeling focused and not dragged down my uncertainty and negative shit that comes along with dealing with boys (OH, THE BRAIN THING! I don’t think I mentioned it on here--Brian told me the night before thanksgiving that we was really into me, then then GHOSTS ME--like literally removed me on snapchat, blocked my number. i messaged him on instagram and called him a pussy, no lie. It was funny and absurd to figure out I was getting ghosted like honestly it’s such a pussy move I can’t even deal with that like BYEeeee boy!!!!)

Anyway, back to what Kelly was advising me, she said that what I went through with this break up was really intense and that I’m still fragile even though I’m beginning to feel good. I need to focus on ME. I almost want to screenshot what she said because it’s true. 

But what did I end up doing? I double texted Adam. I said what Kira told me to say and then an hour later wished him a good business trip with a lil joke attached to it. He replied and then wished me good luck on my orientation. I’ve snapchatted him twice today but haven’t texted him.

I KNOW what Kelly said is so fucking true. I don’t need anything else on my mind except for my career. And hanging out with positive people. I remember coming home after hanging out with Adam, convinced we wouldn’t hang out again, and telling myself I should start seeing someone when I feel more self-assure, more self-confident. Someone who has hobbies who just hasn’t sat around for the past few months moping on the fucking couch. BUt also, part of me wants someone to hang out with. I don’t see myself dating soon but just someone of the opposite sex to get a drink with at the bar, watch a movie with, do something in the city with, whatever. I see myself being able to just do that without getting to emotionally involved or am I just blinded my naivety? Is that even a word?

Part of me wants to check the bumble app just to see if he’s actually in FL on his business. He said he was like 80% sure he was gonna get sent out. Part of me thinks that maybe he’d just say we’d be in touch after his trip as an excuse to let things fizzle out. My dilemma here is, should I let it fizzle out? What I DO know is that I need to give this dude space. Especially because I wasn’t totally over the moon by him, but he was certainly someone I wanted to hang out with more. Which btw, he was very respective about the recent break up and we didn’t even call it a date (even though sushi, netflix, and smooches totally is) I redownloaded the app but I’m to fight off my urge to log on to see his location (it’s kind of creepy isn’t it? me and the fact that bumble shows the town/city the person is currently in)--I don’t want to be crushed/disappointed but I also feel like I’d get an answer. 

I GOTTA CALM DOWN. If it fizzles, it fizzles. I don’t want to disappoint Kelly because I really do take what she says to heart because she and I think so much a like but she’s had so many emotional experiences and has been in my position after a horrible break up. She’s providing me guidance. I should follow her advice because I know it comes from a place of concern and caring. 

I don’t know we’ll see how this goes. I’m just gonna NOT contact him. It’s gonna be hard but I gotta slow my role. If he’s interested he’ll show it. I’m an attractive, funny, cool, smart chick. If the kissing was enough to turn him off, so be it! But if he actually does want to hang out, I’m just gonna play it real chill and not get into anything serious too soon. I just want to have fun and he’s someone I see have interesting times with.

We’ll see...

Update: I finished this post, checked my snapchat, and he showed me a video of his hotel room and how it’s much better than last time. WHAT AM I DOING

[tsukoyxmi]

Hey everyone how are you’ll doing? I hope everyone is enjoying their summer and have an incredible time!

I’m a little sad myself, I just came home back from my holiday in France and I have so many pictures I have to show you guys but I’m really sad it’s all over now honestly. I went there for a lil 2 weeks and that’s why I haven’t been able to post so I apologize for that!

So I arrived the 8th of July in Paris Gare Du Nord (all the pictures are on my Instagram  by the way). I got picked up by my cousin’s husband and it was so nice to see him again after 2 years. We went to their place by train and there I saw my cousin and her baby daughter and we had such a great time talking and catching up again. They lived near Paris so it wasn’t too noisy or crowded at night which I actually liked. But trust me guys Paris is not a safe place to go as a fashion blogger, you will want to buy everything, make 32874298 pictures until you have to delete all your apps and trying to change your style to the Paris style. Trust me, that’s how I felt. I went shopping with my cousin and she took me to all the must-go shopping places but I gotta admit it was kinda a quest to find modest clothes, they don’t have those much so you just gotta keep on looking but eventually you’ll find them! I focused on buying stuff for the winter, as I have told you guys before I’m more of a summer person so my whole closet is literally full with only summer clothes and I literally wore two sweaters the whole winter of 2016 not gonna lie. So I focused on buying winter clothes because they’re always way cheaper when you buy them in the summer. The whole stay in Paris was just so amazing, the food, the shopping, the K-pop store, everything. It was just so much that I can’t write it in all blog post because I’d be spamming y’all with my pictures. Here are some of my favorite pictures I made with my favorite outfit of the whole trip. I hope you enjoy and forgive me for my absence! New blogs very very soon and I’ll post everything about my new stuff.

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Summer vacation! part 1 Hey everyone how are you'll doing? I hope everyone is enjoying their summer and have an incredible time!